It’s time to dine at the beach, on a rooftop or under the stars.
As the scorching summer starts to bid adieu, the cooler breeze invites diners to indulge in al fresco culinary adventures. Abu Dhabi’s vibrant food scene beckons you to explore the many delightful options that come alive with winter winds. And, as always, FACT is ready to serve up the juiciest details on the finest outdoor dining destinations in Abu Dhabi.
99 Sushi Bar & Restaurant
Hidden in the heart of The Galleria Al Maryah Island, the Abu Dhabi branch of 99 Sushi Bar & Restaurant is a real gem, and guess what? It’s earned its Michelin star! Perched above the water, it’s the ideal spot for al fresco dining this season. The restaurant has an impressive seafood lineup with treats like Atlantic bluefin tuna and luxurious caviars. And if you’re into marbled meats, don’t miss their Wagyu and Kobe selections – they’re to die for. So grab a seat with a view and savour the culinary wonders at this waterside oasis.
GO: Visit www.sevenrooms.com for reservations and more information.
Alba Terrace
Be transported to a Mediterranean dream at Alba Terrace,, where vibrant greenery embraces crystal-clear pools at The Abu Dhabi EDITION. The restaurant’s contemporary continental cuisine will treat you to a slice of the Mediterranean, drenched in sunshine and seasoned with friends’ laughter. Enjoy outdoor dining bliss with a selection of treats from the poolside wood-fired oven.
GO: Email restaurantreservations.auh@editionhotels.com for reservations and more information.
Alma
If you’re craving a taste of Latin America in Abu Dhabi, look no further than Alma, the newest addition to the dining scene at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental. This restaurant will satisfy your Mexican food cravings while you dine al fresco by the pool. Expect tacos, tostadas, and ceviches, as they make for perfect poolside snacks. Or try the lamb barbacoa for something hearty.
GO: Email moauh-restaurants@mohg.com for reservations and more information.
Amalfi Beach Lounge
A touch of the Amalfi Coast has swept up on Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi’s private beach, bringing magical Mediterranean vibes to the capital. Amalfi Beach Lounge is located on the Khor Al Maqta creek. The menu offers a modern take on traditional Italian food and drinks, from Charcoal Grilled Octopus and Fried Anchovies to Porcini Mushroom Arancini and Amalfi Lemon Tart. The setting is superb for a sundowner and boasts beautiful views of the sun, sea and sand, which are Instagram-ready and double-tap-worthy. Visitors can choose from chairs and sofas by the shore, which are in shades of blue and white, feeling like something out of the film Mamma Mia!
GO: Follow @amalfibeachlounge on Instagram for more information.
Art Lounge
Art Lounge, nestled atop the Louvre Abu Dhabi, is your ticket to the ultimate outdoor experience in Abu Dhabi. Lounge in style with a fantastic selection of drinks and nibbles under the Louvre’s artistic halo. It’s a prime spot for watching the sunset, and its sleek, contemporary design adds to its allure.
GO: Email artlounge@groupebarriere.com for reservations and more information.
Azura Panoramic Lounge
Elevate your outdoor dining experience at Azura Panoramic Lounge. This gem at The St. Regis Abu Dhabi is spread over three levels and offers mesmerising vistas of the Abu Dhabi Corniche and the serene Arabian Gulf. Sip cocktails while the glittering city lights dance before your eyes,, and the gentle sea breeze whispers promises of a perfect Arabian night.
GO: Email restaurants.abudhabi@stregis.com for reservations and more information.
Beach House
Experience the taste of Italy at the Beach House restaurant in Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel & Villas. This FACT award-winning restaurant offers an al fresco dining adventure inspired by the southern Italian coast. The menu is a seafood lover’s paradise, with daily fresh catches prepared family-style. Complement your meal with a carefully curated selection of cocktails. This serene oasis, tucked away from the city’s hustle and bustle, offers stunning views of Saadiyat Beach, making it a perfect spot to savour a taste of Italy under the Abu Dhabi sky.
GO: Call 02 407 1234 for reservations and more information.
Brick Rooftop Kitchen & Bar
Nestled atop the 12th floor of Aloft Abu Dhabi, Brick Rooftop Kitchen is all about rustic charm and outdoor garden vibes, making it an ideal spot for a bite or drink a view. The menu offers tons for vegans as well. So whether you’re into sourdough bread, wood-fired focaccia, or a s’mores dessert, Brick Rooftop Kitchen & Bar has you covered. This is simple yet sophisticated fun under the Abu Dhabi sky.
GO: Visit www.morecravings.com for reservations and more information.
Buddha-Bar Beach Abu Dhabi
Get ready for a luxurious dining experience at Buddha-Bar Beach Abu Dhabi. Nestled on Saadiyat beach, this fusion of East and West is a haven of taste, music, and style. With stunning sunsets and a chic Saadiyat Island backdrop, the menu offers a tempting selection of Pacific Rim cuisine, expertly blending Asian flavours with a touch of the West. With dishes that not only satisfy your taste buds but also dazzle your eyes, Buddha-Bar Beach Abu Dhabi promises the ultimate outdoor dining adventure.
GO: Email restaurant.saadiyat@stregis.com for reservations and more information.
Butcher & Still
Step into the roaring 1920s at Butcher & Still, a Chicago steakhouse straight out of the Prohibition era. The ambience is a pure speakeasy, complete with plush leather banquettes, rich wood floors, and an impeccable service that screams luxury. Named FACT’s Best Steakhouse of Abu Dhabi in 2023, the menu boasts specially selected prime cuts of American beef, ensuring a top-notch dining experience.
GO: Call 02 333 2444 for reservations and more information.
Café Milano
Café Milano in the Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi on Al Maryah Island carries on the tradition of its counterpart in Washington DC, offering authentic Italian fare in an elegantly stylish setting. The terrace here offers breathtaking views and the cuisine is a celebration of Italy’s diverse flavours. The gentle breeze and picturesque water views invite you to embrace the sweet life, making it a must-visit dining location.
GO: Email cafemilano.abudhabi@fourseasons.com for reservations and more information.
Catch at St. Regis
Catch at St. Regis radiates an aura of elegance and refinement, extending a warm welcome to all seafood aficionados. This culinary haven with an outdoor terrace combines contemporary and Western-inspired cuisine, tantalising taste buds with inventive presentations that spotlight culinary treasures like caviar sturgeons, oysters, sushi, and crabs. You’ve got to be here to know what we’re talking about.
GO: Email restaurants.abudhabi@stregis.com for reservations and more information.
Dai Pai Dong
Dai Pai Dong is a master of modern Cantonese food. Chef Dong brings sixteen years of experience as well as passion to the restaurant. Cutting no corners, there is a dedicated hot pot, dim sum and vegan menu. If like us you want to try everything, we’d recommend the Yum Cha Brunch on the terrace, where you can marvel at the waterfront and ever-changing city skyline. Your stomach will thank us.
GO: Email abudhabi.daipaidong@rosewoodhotels.com for reservations and more information.
Eclipse Terrace Lounge
At Eclipse Terrace Lounge, dining takes on a whole new dimension. As daylight warms the city, you can indulge in a spa-inspired menu by the pool. The seating, a blend of lounge-style comfort, welcomes you to unwind and savour healthful cuisine under the sun. But it’s when the sun begins its descent over the shimmering skyline that Eclipse truly shines. The setting becomes an ideal spot to meet friends for cocktails and innovative bar food from the Pacific Rim.
GO: Call 02 333 2444 for reservations and more information.
Filini Garden
Discover the ultimate sunset haven at Filini Garden, a chic open-air Italian restaurant and lounge that takes outdoor dining in Abu Dhabi to the next level. This sophisticated spot provides unrivalled views of lush golfing greens, making it the perfect backdrop for savouring some delectable antipasti. This restaurant also transforms into a vibrant dance floor on the lower deck, with a resident DJ setting the perfect mood, making it the city’s ultimate hotspot.
GO: Email filini.abudhabi@radissonblu.com for reservations and more information.
Garage
Garage is a celebration of diversity. Whether you’re a daring taste seeker, an Epicurious explorer, a midnight snacker, or a food truck fanatic, this place has something special for everyone. The outdoor dining experience offers a front-row view of the exhilarating Yas Marina Circuit, taking you on a thrilling journey.
GO: Call 02 656 0000 for reservations and more information.
Glo
Glo sets the stage for open-air relaxation under the Arabian stars, with soothing melodies in the background as you sip refreshing cocktails. The al fresco dining experience by the poolside at Rosewood Abu Dhabi offers stunning views and a lush garden, offering a brief escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. With a great menu and live entertainment, this family-friendly restaurant is where you ought to be.
GO: Email abudhabi.dining@rosewoodhotels.com for reservations and more information.
Grills@Chill’O
Grills@Chill’O is turning up the heat with a completely revamped sensory dining experience. Bringing you the best of Mediterranean cuisine and relaxation, you can party at two brand-new elevated decks with stunning Corniche views. The refreshed menu features the finest ingredients, inventive cocktails, flavorful shishas, and a wide selection of sizzling grills. It’s a feast for all your senses.
GO: Email h7507@sofitel.com for reservations and more information.
Hakkasan Abu Dhabi
Hakkasan Abu Dhabi, a proud recipient of a Michelin Star and a consistent FACT award-winner, invites you to indulge in delectable dishes while taking in the breathtaking Abu Dhabi skyline. The Hakkasan Terrace, perched above the stunning Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, offers a chic bar area with a unique cocktail menu and cosy cabanas with magnificent skyline views. Plus with all those awards, you ought to give it a try.
GO: Email moauh-hakkasan@mohg.com for reservations and more information.
Ilios Beach Club
Surf Abu Dhabi is already causing a splash. Located on Hudayriyat Island, the venue is the place to catch some fun, food and waves. Ilios Beach Club promises day-to-night parties. Spread across two levels; the upstairs Euphoria Lounge boasts a balcony with views of the world’s largest artificial surfing wave. While the downstairs area features an indoor dining space. Plus, poolside cabanas, loungers, and the Apollo Bar sit poolside. Sip on cocktails inspired by Greek mythology or dine on a menu of modern Greek-Mediterranean flavours.
GO: Visit www.surfabudhabi.com for more information.
Iris
Perched against the backdrop of Yas Marina, the spacious outdoor terrace offers a picturesque view of yachts and the striking W Hotel Abu Dhabi. The menu combines culinary influences, ranging from light bites like ceviche to contemporary mains and irresistible desserts. Savour delectable beverages, fantastic food, soothing lounge music, and beautiful sunset views with your friends.
GO: Email contact@yasconcierge.com for reservations and more information.
Mare Mare
Experience the delightful flavours of Italy at Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort’s Mare Mare offering a breezy beachside terrace. Indulge in authentic Italian cuisine while soaking up breathtaking views, it’s the perfect recipe for a memorable dining experience in Abu Dhabi.
GO: Email jsirestaurants@Jumeirah.com for reservations and more information.
Mazi
Nestled at The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, this delightful restaurant serves contemporary Greek cuisine that will transport you to the Mediterranean. Savour traditional Greek dishes with a twist while enjoying a fantastic selection of Greek wines and beguiling beverages. The inviting al fresco garden, adorned with olive trees and lush greenery, creates the ultimate dining backdrop.
GO: Email restaurant.saadiyat@stregis.com for reservations and more information.
Nasma Beachfront Bar
For the ultimate seaside hangout, look no further than Nasma Beachfront Bar on Saadiyat Island. It’s all about breathtaking sea views, chill vibes, and total relaxation. As you soak in the coastal atmosphere, indulge in your choice of expertly mixed handcrafted cocktails, Latin bites, and flavorful shisha. The sunsets here are something special, and when the evening sun dips below the horizon, Caribbean beats set the mood for a perfect night.
GO: Visit www.rotana.com for reservations and more information.
Paradiso
Step into a realm of genuine Italian passion and cuisine right at Paradiso. From day to night, this place buzzes with the infectious rhythm of Italian melodies, evoking a sense of pure freedom. Here, it’s not just about dining, it’s about dancing, sharing, and toasting to life. Overlooking Yas Bay, it’s the perfect place to hang out with your loved ones.
GO: Visit www.paradisoabudhabi.com for reservations and more information.
SAL Saadiyat Island
SAL has expanded from Dubai to Abu Dhabi. The first venue is in the iconic Burj Al Arab Jumeirah, and the second is now open at Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort. SAL Saadiyat is a sophisticated spot that draws inspiration from Capri, Mykonos, and Saint-Tropez. Bringing laidback luxury to Abu Dhabi, diners can soak up the uninterrupted water views and dig into a Mediterranean-inspired menu. Highlights include King Crab and Homemade Trenette Pasta, and Sea Salt Crusted Sea Bass. Plus, classics include Lobster Linguine, Pizza Margherita and Tirimasu. Read our review of the restaurant here.
GO: Follow @sal_saadiyatisland on Instagram for more information.
Sand & Koal
Get ready to play with fire at Sand & Koal, where you’ll find yourself with sand between your toes, serenaded by the rhythmic waves and mesmerised by the vibrant teal ocean views. The menu is a masterpiece of raw, smoked, and charred seafood, unique meat cuts, and mouthwatering grilled skewers. With live DJ music setting the rhythm, yachts cruising by, and plates of thinly sliced crudos accompanying your handcrafted cocktails, this boho-chic hotspot right on the sands is perfect for a fun day out.
GO: Email moauh-restaurants@mohg.com for reservations and more information.
Shala Beach Lounge
Get ready to embrace a bohemian-inspired barefoot haven on the pristine shores of Saadiyat Island at Shala Beach Lounge. Shala takes pride in offering a diverse cuisine with a seasonal menu carefully curated to tantalise your taste buds. With a “farm to table” approach and locally sourced produce, their culinary experts infuse Mediterranean influences into every dish. Located on the shores of Saadiyat Beach at Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel and Villas, Shala Beach Lounge provides the perfect setting for a memorable experience by the sea.
GO: Email abudhabi.park@hyatt.com for reservations and more information.
Siddharta Lounge by Buddha-Bar
Situated in Yas Bay, Siddharta Lounge by Buddha-Bar is a breathtaking spot with views of the Arabian Gulf. This FACT Award-winning rooftop restaurant and lounge exudes a glamorous atmosphere and offers a menu of Mediterranean and Asian cuisine alongside one-of-a-kind cocktails. Siddharta Lounge ensures a seamless transition from dining to nightlife while showcasing Buddha-Bar’s renowned music.
GO: Visit www.siddhartalounge-abudhabi.com for reservations and more information.
Strawfire
Acclaimed chef Ross Shonhan of Netsu-fame in Dubai has brought Strawfire to Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental. The restaurant introduces the capital to the ancient Japanese cooking technique known as warayaki. This method of cooking involves grilling over a roaring fire fueled by straw, creating a unique, smoky flavour. trawfire’s menu offers a variety of options: à la carte, a signature tasting menu, and the Chef’s Omakase menu. This sophisticated, luxurious, and rather blazing dining experience promises to ignite all your senses, but the outdoor terrace, with its harvest-inspired decor and views of the Palace grounds, ensures a memorable meal.
GO: Visit www.mandarinoriental.com for more information.
SUSHISAMBA Abu Dhabi
SUSHISAMBA can be found across the world in Dubai, Doha, London, Miami and Las Vegas. Now, the world-famous restaurant has opened in Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers. Designed by Lazaro Rosa Violan, the first floor comprises a restaurant and terrace, while the second floor houses a private dining room, bar, the popular SAMBAROOM, and a terrace with stunning sea views. The concept draws its inspiration from Brazil, Japan and Peru, and combines the flavours of each country across signature items such as Peruvian Anticuchos and seviche, and show-stopping sushi.
GO: Visit www.sushisamba.com for reservations and more information.
Taparelle
FACT’s Restaurant of the Year in 2023 and 2024, NIRI Restaurant & Bar, is led by a talented team that includes Managing Director Imad Obeid and Chef Omaka Marie. Now, the dynamic duo have launched their latest venture. Taparelle blends art, culture, and cuisine in a captivating space at Mamsha Al Saadiyat. There’s a Mediterranean street-style dining area, a co-working table and a dedicated outdoor garden area complete with a pizza oven and a bar serving cocktails and mocktails. The menu features standout dishes like Burrata with Uzbek Tomatoes, Seabass Carpaccio, Scallops Grenobloise and Wood-Fired Tomato, alongside comforting options like Oxtail Ragu.
GO: Visit www.taparelle.com for reservations and more information.
tashas
Located by the sea, tashas at Al Bateen is the perfect place to kick off your day with a view. This FACT award-winning restaurant has an amazing breakfast selection. Come for the breakfasts (which are served until 6pm), and stay for the speciality coffee. The FACT team love tashas, whether it’s for a virgin cocktail with friends or a spot of remote working, the ambience is oh-so chilled.
GO: Visit www.tashascafe.com for reservations and more information.
Ting Irie
FACT award-winning Ting Irie brings a contemporary twist to Caribbean cuisine. Groove to the sounds of reggae and hip-hop, courtesy of top-notch DJs, and let them bring in the good vibes. The restaurant pays homage to traditional island ingredients and beloved Jamaican dishes. Located at Mamsha Al Saadiyat, it’s your chance to savour delicious food with a backdrop of magnificent sea views.
GO: Email info@tingirie.com for reservations and more information.
TOTÓ Abu Dhabi
Sport and food might not sound like a catchy combination, but it appears to have worked for tennis’ Rafael Nadal and football’s Cristiano Ronaldo. The pair are behind the culinary concept, TOTÓ Abu Dhabi, which serves fine-dining Italian food. The concept draws inspiration from 1950s Italian cinema, cinematography, and the legendary Cinema Paradiso. The menu combines traditional and creative dishes, and guests can expect clay pot casseroles and stews, plentiful pasta dishes, and meat and fish prepared in the wood-fired oven. Read our review of the restaurant here.
GO: Visit www.totorestaurants.com for more information.
West Bay Lounge
Nestled by the azure Arabian Gulf, West Bay Lounge paints a serene beachside vibe. You get to indulge in a wide selection of dishes as well that are sure to elevate your al fresco experience. Don’t forget that over the weekend, this place turns into the ultimate party hotspot.
GO: Email westbaylounge@adnhmc.com for reservations and more information.
