Ah, the tantalizing aromas of garlic, lemon, fresh herbs, and sizzling grills! Lebanese cuisine, with its rich tapestry of flavors and communal dining culture, holds a special place in the hearts of food lovers worldwide, and Abu Dhabi is no exception. From bustling casual eateries to sophisticated fine-dining establishments, the capital of the UAE offers a remarkable array of Lebanese restaurants that promise an authentic culinary journey. Whether you are craving classic mezze, succulent grilled meats, or delightful sweets, we are here to guide you through the very best Lebanese dining experiences this vibrant city has to offer. Prepare to embark on a gastronomic adventure.
Fine Dining Lebanese Experiences
Abu Dhabi boasts several upscale Lebanese restaurants that elevate traditional flavors to an art form, often set within luxurious hotels or with breathtaking views. These venues are perfect for special occasions or when you desire an exquisite culinary journey.
Li Beirut at the Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers is consistently praised as one of the city’s finest Lebanese dining destinations. It offers an elegant ambiance with stunning sea views from its terrace. The menu presents both classic Lebanese dishes and innovative interpretations, carefully prepared with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Diners often highlight their mixed grills, unique mezze, and a dessert selection that truly impresses. The service here is often described as impeccable, adding to the overall refined experience. Li Beirut has also received recognition in the Michelin Guide.
Byblos Sur Mer, located in the InterContinental Abu Dhabi, provides another exceptional fine-dining experience. With a charming marina backdrop, this restaurant transports you to a Mediterranean dream. Its extensive menu features a wide array of Lebanese classics, from hot and cold mezze to expertly grilled seafood and meats. The ambiance is sophisticated, and the outdoor seating offers a lovely setting for a leisurely meal. The focus here is on delivering an authentic taste of Lebanon with an upscale touch.
Em Sherif Café at the Rosewood Abu Dhabi is a relatively newer addition to the fine dining scene but has quickly garnered attention. It offers a refined take on Lebanese and Mediterranean cuisine, known for its elegant decor and a meticulously curated menu for lunch and dinner. The restaurant often features live music and even shisha, creating a vibrant yet sophisticated atmosphere. They pride themselves on using fresh ingredients for their traditional appetizers and entrees, including unique seafood and premium beef options. The interior design, inspired by historic Levantine sea journeys, adds to its unique charm.
Another noteworthy mention is Almayass, found in The Galleria Al Maryah Island. While it blends Lebanese and Armenian cuisine, its Lebanese offerings are highly authentic and celebrated. The restaurant provides a warm and inviting setting, reminiscent of a traditional Lebanese home, making it suitable for both everyday dining and celebrations. Their circular booths are often requested seats, offering a comfortable and intimate dining experience.
These establishments focus on providing not just a meal, but a comprehensive dining experience where every detail, from the ambiance to the presentation of dishes, is carefully considered.
Casual and Authentic Lebanese Eateries
For those seeking a more relaxed yet equally delicious Lebanese meal, Abu Dhabi has numerous casual restaurants that serve up hearty, authentic flavors reminiscent of home-style cooking. These spots are perfect for a quick lunch, a family dinner, or a relaxed gathering with friends.
Abd El Wahab, located in Souq Qaryat Al Beri, is a vibrant and beloved spot that offers an authentic Lebanese culinary experience. Since its origins in Beirut in 1999, it has become a go-to for traditional Levantine cuisine. The restaurant provides a lively atmosphere and is known for its wide array of classic mezze, grilled dishes, and fresh breads. Its location in Souq Qaryat Al Beri also offers picturesque views of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, especially beautiful in the evenings.
Zahrat Lebnan, often referred to as Lebanese Flower, is a popular chain with multiple branches across Abu Dhabi. It has been a landmark for Lebanese cuisine since 1983. Known for its relaxed atmosphere and extensive menu, Zahrat Lebnan serves up traditional Lebanese delicacies from breakfast to dinner. Their falafel, hummus fatteh, and a variety of manakish are particular favorites among locals. It’s a reliable choice for consistent quality and a taste of traditional Lebanon.
Mosaic Restaurant is another excellent option for an authentic Beiruti experience. It offers a buzzing family vibe and prides itself on using fresh ingredients, particularly for its meats. You will find a wide range of Lebanese staples, from delicious mezze to flavorful grills. Their branches often have a light and airy feel, sometimes with small terraces, allowing for a comfortable dining experience.
Allo Beirut brings a 1950s diner vibe with a Lebanese twist to Abu Dhabi, featuring brightly colored booths and a lively atmosphere. This two-tier diner is praised for its fresh and authentic Lebanese home cooking with a Mediterranean flair. It’s a great spot for any meal of the day, offering classic mezze and hearty mains that receive a modern upgrade.
These casual eateries often emphasize generosity in their portions and a welcoming environment, making them ideal for experiencing the warmth of Lebanese hospitality without the formality of fine dining.
Lebanese Restaurants with Outdoor Seating and Views
Enjoying delicious Lebanese food is even better when coupled with beautiful views and pleasant outdoor seating, especially during Abu Dhabi’s cooler months. Many Lebanese restaurants in the city offer fantastic al fresco dining options.
Beirut Sur Mer on Saadiyat Island is a buzzing gem perfect for any occasion, from a casual breakfast to a chic night out. Its stylish mix of open kitchens, high ceilings, and hanging plants creates a vibrant atmosphere, complemented by lovely beach views. The outdoor seating is highly sought after, providing a refreshing dining experience with the sea breeze.
The Lebanese Terrace at the Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi, offers a menu inspired by Lebanon’s coastal cuisine. This restaurant beautifully combines traditions and exquisite flavors within the captivating palace gardens. Its interior features olive trees and stained-glass windows, creating a welcoming, traditional feel, while the extensive outdoor seating area provides serene views and a relaxed setting. It’s an ideal spot for a leisurely meal surrounded by natural beauty.
As mentioned earlier, Li Beirut at Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers and Abd El Wahab at Souq Qaryat Al Beri both offer superb outdoor seating options with stunning views. Li Beirut’s terrace overlooks the sea, providing a romantic backdrop, while Abd El Wahab’s outdoor area offers iconic views of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, especially enchanting when lit up at night.
Mazaj Bab Al Bahr at Fairmont Bab Al Bahr presents Mediterranean cuisine with a local flair, and its beach garden overlooks the majestic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. While it offers a broader Mediterranean menu, its Lebanese-inspired dishes are popular, and the outdoor setting is truly spectacular, providing a tranquil dining experience by the soothing waterways of Khor Al Maqta.
When planning to dine at these venues, especially during peak seasons or weekends, it is highly recommended to book in advance and specifically request outdoor seating to ensure you secure a table with a view. These locations offer a perfect blend of culinary delight and scenic beauty.
Lebanese Restaurants for Different Dining Needs
Lebanese cuisine is incredibly versatile, making it suitable for various dining needs, from quick bites to elaborate family feasts. Abu Dhabi’s Lebanese restaurants cater to all these preferences.
For a quick and satisfying meal, places like Kaaki W Nos (with branches in Marina Mall and Al Ain) specialize in Lebanese street food. They are excellent for grab-and-go options like manakish (savory pastries), falafel sandwiches, and various Lebanese breads. These spots are perfect for a casual lunch or a quick bite while shopping or exploring.
If you are looking for a Lebanese breakfast experience, many of the casual eateries like Zahrat Lebnan or Mazaj Bab Al Bahr offer traditional spreads. You can expect fresh labneh, foul medames, eggs with sujok, various cheeses, olives, fresh vegetables, and, of course, warm pita bread. It is a hearty and flavorful way to start your day.
For those who enjoy shisha with their meal, several Lebanese restaurants provide dedicated outdoor or indoor shisha lounges. Em Sherif Sea Café at Rosewood Abu Dhabi offers shisha along with its fine dining experience, combining a sophisticated atmosphere with traditional relaxation. Bushra by Buddha-Bar on Yas Bay Waterfront, while offering a modern Middle Eastern and North African fusion, also provides shisha in a trendy setting with an open kitchen and charcoal grill. These places are ideal for a leisurely evening, savoring food and enjoying shisha in a lively environment.
When planning a large family gathering, restaurants like Abd El Wahab or Grand Beirut (at The Galleria Al Maryah Island) are well-equipped to handle bigger groups. Their menus are designed to facilitate sharing, with extensive mezze selections and large platters of grilled meats that cater to diverse tastes. The communal nature of Lebanese dining truly shines in these settings.
Abu Dhabi’s Lebanese dining scene ensures that no matter your preference or occasion, you can find a restaurant that perfectly fits your needs. The www.few.ae editor encourages you to explore the diverse culinary landscape.
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