High End:
Diwan L’Auberge $$$$
Emirates Palace, +971 2 690 7999
If you have oodles of cash to spend on a very special occasion, then head to Diwan L’Auberge. What you spend on one bowl of baba ganoush at Diwan you can spend on meal for one at Lebanese Flower but minus the romantic subtle ambience. The menu choices consist of the familiar Lebanese dishes but what cuts class is the flavour and texture of their seafood and meat dishes. Food and presentation is superb, but atmosphere may be a tad quiet for a group of friends.
Mid Range:
Al Mawal $$$
Hilton Abu Dhabi, +971 2 681 1900
This place is an institution and has been around for years serving top quality authentic Lebanese. Many Arabs as well as the locals dine here, assuring you the food and service is top notch. It is the perfect venue for families and special occasions and of course belly dancers to help aid the digestion.
Cedar Lounge $$
Fairmont Bab al Bahr, +971 2 654 3333
If you want classy Lebanese food in trendy surroundings, Cedar Lounge oozes a funky vibe that the Fairmont chain is so renowned for. You may be used to your local shish tawook and hummous, but really Cedar prides itself on quality ingredients.
Whether it be a romantic meal or an evening of mezze with friends you have the option of dining indoors or outdoor by the pool, the latter of which is a must for trendy ambience. Shisha, cocktails, DJ’s and belly dancers will make you want to return again. Definitely a fun night out.
Budget:
Maroush $
In between the British Embassy and Chamber of Commerce, +971 2 621 4424
With so many budget Lebanese restaurants in the city it’s difficult to narrow down to a couple of favourites. Maroush is great budget restaurant serving decent food at bargain prices. As well as the Lebanese regulars, try their whole roast chicken meal with chips, bread, salad and dip for under 25 Dhs. Unlicensed.
Café Layali Zaman $
Al Markaziyah, +971 2 627 7745
A great café/ restaurant that’s popular with the locals which is a thumbs up. With lovely views of the corniche, in the cooler months opt to sit on the balcony. Fuss free Lebanese favourites all appear on the menu. Portion sizes are generous and prices are so reasonable you’ll be tempted to order a variety of mezzes, which this place does well. Their grilled halloumi is super as well as the variety of other non meat dishes. The place is unlicensed but they make up for it with their divine fresh juices. Unlicensed.
Grapeshisha Choice:
Lebanese Flower $
Khaldiya +971 2 665 8700
For a great Lebanese meal, this place wins hands down for us. Lebanese Flower has been around for years and its fan base keeps growing. No matter how busy the place, the waiting staff will ensure you get a table asap and your food will be delivered pronto too with no compromise on quality. Portion sizes are generous so don’t get too excited if you are a party of two. The décor is not too impressive but you will be blinded by the good food to even look up. Their takeaway service is so popular with the locals, it’s a gamble to park around the restaurant, so it’s best to get it here by taxi. It’s difficult to move after you have had a meal here. Unlicensed.