Are you craving a taste of authentic Abu Dhabi cuisine? Look no further! In “Eat Like A Local: Stylish.ae’s Favorite Street Food Stops In Abu Dhabi,” we bring you a curated list of the best street food stops in the city. From sizzling shawarmas to fragrant falafels, prepare to embark on a culinary adventure like no other. Whether you’re a resident or a tourist, these hidden gems are sure to satisfy your cravings and provide a true taste of Abu Dhabi’s vibrant food culture. So, get ready to indulge your taste buds and discover the local flavors that make this city so unique. Abu Dhabi, the capital city of the United Arab Emirates, is known for its vibrant food scene. From local Emirati cuisine to Indian street food, Lebanese delights to Asian street food, there is something to satisfy every craving. In this article, we will take you on a culinary journey through the streets of Abu Dhabi, highlighting some of the best food trucks and establishments that offer delicious and authentic street food. Whether you’re a resident or a tourist, these hidden gems are a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the flavors of Abu Dhabi.
Food Trucks in Abu Dhabi
Food trucks have become increasingly popular in Abu Dhabi, serving up a variety of mouthwatering dishes on wheels. Here are some of the top food trucks that you should check out:
Mustafa’s Shawarma
If you’re a fan of shawarma, then Mustafa’s Shawarma is a must-try. This food truck serves up flavorful and juicy shawarmas, made with tender marinated meat and a selection of fresh vegetables. The combination of perfectly spiced meat, tangy sauces, and soft bread makes Mustafa’s Shawarma a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
The Shehrazad Food Truck
Bringing a taste of Arabian nights to the streets of Abu Dhabi, The Shehrazad Food Truck offers a variety of Middle Eastern treats. From hummus and falafel wraps to savory kebabs and crispy samosas, this food truck will transport your taste buds to the heart of the Middle East. Don’t forget to try their freshly squeezed juices and aromatic Arabic coffee for the complete experience.
The Fry Guys
For those craving some comfort food, The Fry Guys food truck is the place to go. They specialize in all things fried, from crispy chicken tenders to golden French fries. Their menu also includes a variety of dipping sauces and seasonings to add an extra kick to your meal. Whether you’re a fan of classic American-style fried food or looking for a unique twist, The Fry Guys will not disappoint.
Burger Kitchen
Burger Kitchen is a food truck that takes the humble burger to new heights. With their gourmet burger creations, they have won the hearts of many burger enthusiasts in Abu Dhabi. From juicy beef patties topped with melted cheese to crispy chicken burgers with zesty sauces, Burger Kitchen offers a wide range of options to satisfy any burger craving. Make sure to pair your burger with their signature hand-cut fries for the complete experience.
The Toastie Truck
If you’re in the mood for a grilled cheese sandwich like no other, The Toastie Truck is the place to be. This food truck specializes in creating ooey-gooey sandwiches filled with a variety of cheeses and flavorful fillings. From classic combinations like ham and cheese to innovative creations like mac and cheese-stuffed toasties, The Toastie Truck will leave you craving more. Don’t forget to pair your sandwich with one of their refreshing drinks for the perfect meal.
Local Emirati Cuisine
Abu Dhabi is home to a rich and diverse culinary heritage, and exploring the local Emirati cuisine is a must for anyone visiting the city. Here are some of the best establishments where you can experience the unique flavors of Emirati cuisine:
Al Arish
Located in the heart of Abu Dhabi, Al Arish is a restaurant that offers a wide range of traditional Emirati dishes. From fragrant biryanis to tender grilled meats, their menu is a reflection of the rich Emirati culinary heritage. Don’t miss out on trying their signature dishes like the aromatic machbous and the flavorful harees.
Al Dhafra
Nestled in the desert city of Al Ain, Al Dhafra brings the flavors of the Emirati countryside to your table. With a menu inspired by the Bedouin traditions, this restaurant offers a truly authentic dining experience. From camel meat dishes to slow-cooked stews, Al Dhafra showcases the rustic flavors of Emirati cuisine in a warm and inviting setting.
Al Fanar
Step into a time capsule and experience Emirati cuisine from a bygone era at Al Fanar. This restaurant provides a glimpse into the past with its traditional interiors and nostalgic ambiance. The menu features classic Emirati dishes like the tender lamb machboos, fragrant harees, and the sweet and sticky balaleet. End your meal with a cup of gahwa (Arabic coffee) and a plate of luqaimat (sweet dumplings) for a truly authentic experience.
Mezlai
Located in the luxurious Emirates Palace, Mezlai offers a fine dining experience with a focus on Emirati cuisine. The menu showcases the rich flavors of the region, with dishes like the succulent lamb ouzi and the indulgent seafood majbous. The elegant setting and attentive service make Mezlai the perfect place to celebrate a special occasion or simply indulge in the exquisite flavors of Emirati cuisine.
Indian Street Food
Indian cuisine is known for its bold flavors and intricate spice blends, and Abu Dhabi is home to some incredible Indian street food establishments. Here are a few places where you can sample the vibrant flavors of India:
Tamba
Tamba brings a modern twist to traditional Indian street food, offering a fusion of flavors from across the country. From their tangy pani puri shots to their succulent tandoori kebabs, every dish at Tamba is a masterpiece. Don’t forget to try their butter chicken, which is known for its rich and creamy sauce.
Indigo
Indigo is a casual and vibrant restaurant that offers a wide range of Indian street food favorites. From crispy dosas to spicy chaats, their menu is a feast for the senses. Indigo also offers a selection of regional specialties, so you can take your taste buds on a culinary journey through different parts of India.
Kulcha King
Kulcha King is a popular street food joint that specializes in stuffed kulchas, a type of Indian bread. From the classic aloo (potato) kulcha to the more adventurous paneer tikka kulcha, they offer a variety of fillings and flavors to satisfy every palate. Make sure to try their tangy chole (chickpea curry) on the side for a complete meal.
Rajdhani Street
Rajdhani Street is a hidden gem in Abu Dhabi, offering a unique dining experience with its street food-inspired menu. From their flavorful pav bhaji to their indulgent kathi rolls, every dish at Rajdhani Street is bursting with authentic Indian flavors. Don’t forget to wash it all down with a refreshing glass of masala chai.
Delhi Darbar
Delhi Darbar brings the flavors of the bustling streets of Delhi to Abu Dhabi. With their extensive menu of chaats, kebabs, and biryanis, this restaurant offers a taste of the vibrant street food scene in the Indian capital. Make sure to try their famous butter chicken, which is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Lebanese Delights
Lebanese cuisine is loved worldwide for its fresh ingredients and bold flavors. In Abu Dhabi, you can find a variety of Lebanese food establishments that offer authentic and delicious dishes. Here are a few places to satisfy your Lebanese food cravings:
Zahraa Al Zafranah
Zahraa Al Zafranah is a cozy Lebanese restaurant known for its authentic and flavorful dishes. From their crispy falafels to their creamy hummus, every bite is a delight for your taste buds. Their menu also includes a variety of grilled meats and refreshing salads, making it a perfect place for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Zahr El-Laymoun
With its rustic decor and relaxed ambiance, Zahr El-Laymoun offers a truly Lebanese dining experience. The menu features a wide range of traditional dishes, from tender shawarmas to fragrant kebabs. Don’t forget to try their Lebanese desserts like baklava and knefeh for a sweet finish to your meal.
Al Mallah
Al Mallah is an iconic Lebanese eatery that has been serving up delicious food since the 1980s. From their fluffy pitas to their generous portions of grilled meat, every dish at Al Mallah is made with love and dedication. Don’t miss out on trying their shawarma sandwiches, which are considered some of the best in the city.
Zaroob
Zaroob is a vibrant and lively restaurant that brings the street food culture of Beirut to Abu Dhabi. With its colorful interiors and upbeat atmosphere, Zaroob is the perfect place to enjoy a casual meal with friends. The menu features a variety of Lebanese street food favorites, including manaqish (Lebanese pizzas), grilled meats, and mezze platters.
Al Khayal
Located in the stunning Emirates Palace, Al Khayal offers a luxurious Lebanese dining experience. The menu showcases a fusion of traditional and contemporary Lebanese dishes, prepared with the highest quality ingredients. From their tender lamb ouzi to their refreshing fattoush salad, every dish at Al Khayal is a work of art.
Asian Street Food
Abu Dhabi is a melting pot of cultures, and its culinary scene reflects this diversity. When it comes to Asian street food, the city offers a variety of options to satisfy your cravings. Here are a few places where you can sample the vibrant flavors of Asia:
Little Manila
If you’re craving Filipino food, head over to Little Manila for an authentic taste of the Philippines. From their crispy lechon kawali to their savory adobo, every dish at Little Manila is made with love and passion. Don’t forget to try their halo-halo, a refreshing dessert made with shaved ice, fruits, and sweet beans.
Vietnamese Foodies
Vietnamese Foodies is a small and cozy restaurant that offers a taste of Vietnam in the heart of Abu Dhabi. From their flavorful pho to their aromatic banh mi sandwiches, every dish at Vietnamese Foodies is a celebration of Vietnamese cuisine. Don’t miss out on trying their fresh and fragrant summer rolls.
Wokyo Noodle Bar
Wokyo Noodle Bar is a popular spot for noodle lovers, offering a variety of Asian-inspired bowls. From their spicy Thai green curry noodles to their savory teriyaki bowls, every dish at Wokyo Noodle Bar is made to order with fresh ingredients. Customize your bowl with your choice of protein, veggies, and sauces for a personalized dining experience.
Mr. Brisket
Mr. Brisket is a hidden gem in Abu Dhabi, offering delicious and flavorful Korean BBQ dishes. From their tender bulgogi to their spicy kimchi fried rice, every dish at Mr. Brisket is a delight for your taste buds. Don’t forget to try their signature beef brisket, which is cooked to perfection.
Maoz Vegetarian
For vegetarian Asian street food options, Maoz Vegetarian is the place to go. With their extensive menu of falafels, salads, and wraps, this restaurant offers a variety of flavorful and wholesome meals. Don’t miss out on trying their falafel wraps, which are packed with fresh veggies and flavorful sauces.
Middle Eastern Falafels
Falafels are a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine, and Abu Dhabi is home to some fantastic falafel joints. Here are a few places where you can satisfy your falafel cravings:
Zaytinya
Zaytinya is a cozy and welcoming restaurant that specializes in authentic Middle Eastern cuisine. Their falafels are made with a combination of chickpeas and herbs, resulting in a crispy exterior and a soft and flavorful interior. Enjoy their falafels as part of a mezze platter or in a traditional falafel sandwich for a satisfying meal.
Falafel Al Yemen
Falafel Al Yemen is a small and unassuming eatery that offers some of the best Yemeni falafels in Abu Dhabi. Their falafels are packed with flavor, with a perfect balance of spices and herbs. Enjoy them on their own or in a warm pita bread with tahini sauce and fresh veggies.
Automatic Restaurant
Automatic Restaurant is a local favorite when it comes to falafels. This no-frills eatery has been serving up delicious and affordable Middle Eastern food for decades. Their falafels are known for their crispy exterior and soft interior, making them a perfect street food snack.
Bait Al Zaatar
Bait Al Zaatar is a Lebanese restaurant that specializes in traditional Middle Eastern dishes, including falafels. Their falafels are made with a combination of chickpeas, herbs, and spices, resulting in a flavorful and satisfying snack. Enjoy them on their own or in a wrap with your choice of toppings for a filling meal.
Mazzay
Mazzay is a Lebanese eatery that offers a wide range of Middle Eastern delights, including falafels. From their perfectly fried and seasoned falafels to their creamy and tangy tahini sauce, every bite at Mazzay is a burst of flavor. Don’t forget to try their fresh and zesty tabbouleh salad for a refreshing accompaniment.
Mexican Tacos and Burritos
If you’re in the mood for some Mexican flavors, Abu Dhabi has a variety of establishments that offer delicious tacos and burritos. Here are a few places to satisfy your Mexican food cravings:
Loca
Loca is a vibrant and lively Mexican restaurant that offers a wide range of tacos and burritos. From their succulent carne asada tacos to their flavorful chicken enchiladas, every dish at Loca is a fiesta of flavors. Don’t forget to try their signature guacamole, which is made fresh at your table.
Taco Sano
Taco Sano is a hidden gem in Abu Dhabi, offering authentic and flavorful Mexican street food. From their crispy fish tacos to their juicy pulled pork burritos, every bite at Taco Sano is a taste of Mexico. Don’t miss out on trying their tangy and refreshing agua frescas for a true Mexican experience.
El Sombrero
El Sombrero is a casual and cozy restaurant that specializes in Mexican cuisine. Their menu features a variety of tacos and burritos, made with fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Don’t forget to try their churros for a sweet and satisfying end to your meal.
Taquise
Taquise is a taco truck that brings the flavors of Mexico to the streets of Abu Dhabi. From their tender barbacoa tacos to their spicy chorizo burritos, every dish at Taquise is made with love and attention to detail. Don’t miss out on trying their refreshing horchata, a classic Mexican rice drink.
Caliburger
Caliburger is a fast-food restaurant that offers a unique twist on Mexican classics. Their Mexicali burgers and tacos are made with juicy beef patties, melted cheese, and zesty sauces, creating a fusion of American and Mexican flavors. Don’t forget to try their hand-cut fries and milkshakes for the ultimate indulgence.
Korean Bibimbap and Kimchi
Korean cuisine has gained popularity around the world for its bold flavors and unique dishes. In Abu Dhabi, you can find a variety of establishments that offer delicious Korean bibimbap and kimchi. Here are a few places to satisfy your Korean food cravings:
Kimchikin
Kimchikin is a cozy and inviting restaurant that specializes in Korean fried chicken and bibimbap. Their bibimbap is made with a variety of fresh vegetables, marinated beef, and a fried egg, all served on a bed of flavorful rice. Don’t forget to try their crispy and flavorful Korean fried chicken for a truly satisfying meal.
Woomi
Woomi is a Korean BBQ restaurant that offers a variety of dishes, including bibimbap. Their bibimbap is made with a combination of marinated and grilled meats, fresh vegetables, and a spicy chili sauce. Enjoy their bibimbap as is, or mix it all together for a burst of flavors and textures.
Matgoul
Matgoul is a small and cozy restaurant that offers a variety of Korean dishes, including bibimbap. Their bibimbap is made with a medley of vegetables, marinated beef, and a fried egg, all served on a bed of steamed rice. Don’t forget to try their spicy kimchi, which adds a burst of flavor and heat to any dish.
Koreana
Koreana is a popular Korean restaurant that offers a wide range of dishes, including bibimbap. Their bibimbap is made with a variety of fresh vegetables, marinated beef, and a special chili sauce, creating a perfect balance of flavors. Don’t forget to try their banchan, a selection of small side dishes that accompany every Korean meal.
Seorabol
Seorabol is a Korean BBQ restaurant that offers a variety of dishes, including bibimbap. Their bibimbap is made with high-quality ingredients, resulting in a flavorful and satisfying meal. Enjoy their bibimbap as is, or mix it all together for a burst of flavors and textures.
Mediterranean Flavors
Mediterranean cuisine is loved for its fresh and vibrant flavors, and Abu Dhabi offers a variety of establishments where you can satisfy your Mediterranean cravings. Here are a few places to explore the diverse flavors of the Mediterranean:
Tarbouche
Tarbouche is a Lebanese restaurant that offers a variety of Mediterranean dishes. From their creamy hummus to their flavorful kebabs, every dish at Tarbouche is made with high-quality ingredients and authentic flavors. Don’t forget to try their freshly baked pita bread, which is the perfect accompaniment to any Mediterranean meal.
Zahr El Laymoun
Zahr El Laymoun is a trendy and modern restaurant that offers a fusion of Mediterranean and Levantine flavors. Their menu features a variety of dishes, from fresh salads to flavorful grilled meats. Don’t miss out on trying their refreshing and aromatic lemonade for a true taste of the Mediterranean.
Al Dhiyafa
Located in the iconic Emirates Palace, Al Dhiyafa offers a fine dining experience with a focus on Mediterranean cuisine. Their menu showcases dishes from various regions around the Mediterranean, resulting in a diverse and flavorful dining experience. Don’t forget to try their seafood paella, which is a favorite among seafood lovers.
Damas Cafe
Damas Cafe is a small and cozy eatery that offers a variety of Mediterranean delights. From their flavorful falafels to their refreshing tabbouleh salad, every dish at Damas Cafe is made with love and attention to detail. Don’t miss out on trying their baklava for a sweet and satisfying end to your meal.
Almaz by Momo
Almaz by Momo is a stylish and vibrant restaurant that offers a fusion of Mediterranean and North African flavors. Their menu features a variety of dishes, from flavorful tagines to spicy harissa-marinated meats. Don’t forget to try their signature couscous, which is made with fluffy grains and a selection of aromatic vegetables and meats.
Thai Street Food
Thai cuisine is known for its bold flavors and aromatic spices, and Abu Dhabi is home to some fantastic Thai street food establishments. Here are a few places to satisfy your Thai food cravings:
Thai Corner
Thai Corner is a small and cozy restaurant that offers a variety of authentic Thai dishes. From their flavorful curries to their fragrant pad Thai, every dish at Thai Corner is made with high-quality ingredients and traditional Thai flavors. Don’t forget to try their sticky mango rice for a sweet and satisfying end to your meal.
Smiling BKK
Smiling BKK is a popular Thai restaurant that offers a wide range of dishes, including street food favorites. From their spicy green curry to their tangy papaya salad, every dish at Smiling BKK is bursting with authentic Thai flavors. Don’t miss out on trying their refreshing Thai iced tea, which is the perfect accompaniment to any meal.
Lemongrass
Lemongrass is a trendy and modern restaurant that specializes in contemporary Thai cuisine. Their menu features a fusion of traditional Thai flavors with modern twists, resulting in unique and flavorful dishes. Don’t forget to try their signature lemongrass chicken, which is marinated in aromatic herbs and spices.
MAZI Abu Dhabi
MAZI Abu Dhabi is a chic and stylish restaurant that offers a variety of Mediterranean and Thai fusion dishes. From their flavorful pad Thai to their creamy moussaka, every dish at MAZI Abu Dhabi is a fusion of flavors from the Mediterranean and Thailand. Don’t miss out on trying their signature cocktails, which are crafted with a unique blend of ingredients.
Sontaya
Located in The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, Sontaya is a luxurious Thai restaurant that offers a fine dining experience with a focus on Thai street food. The menu features a variety of dishes, from fragrant curries to spicy salads, all made with the freshest ingredients and authentic Thai flavors. Don’t forget to try their refreshing and aromatic tom yum soup for a true taste of Thailand.
By exploring the food trucks and establishments mentioned above, you can truly “eat like a local” in Abu Dhabi. From flavorful shawarmas to spicy curries, crispy falafels to juicy burgers, there is something for everyone to enjoy. So, whether you’re a resident or a tourist, be sure to experience the diverse and vibrant street food scene in Abu Dhabi.
