For those who enjoy sampling different cuisines, Abu Dhabi, with its fast-maturing epicurean scene, is the place to be. From Italian, Indian and multi-cuisine to tapas-style meals and restaurants that serve organic and local sourced ingredients, a world of tastes and flavours is truly available. Plus, depending on the occasion, the Emirati capital is home to a whole range of eatery styles, from fine dining and open kitchens to family-style favourites and alternatives like pop-ups and food trucks. With so much choice, choosing which culinary hotspot to try next can be a nail-biting affair, but thankfully, the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) has provided foodies a shortcut. The organisation has launched “The World of Cuisine Abu Dhabi,” the first-ever UAE-based Lonely Planet guide covering the emirate’s F&B scene.
“Here in Abu Dhabi, we know and understand the power that food holds in every community, and we make sure we can always serve the best and authentic food from every part of the world to our visitors and residents,” Ali Al Shaiba, Executive Director of Tourism and Marketing at DCT Abu Dhabi, pens in the book’s foreword.
Created in partnership with Abu Dhabi Culinary and introduced during Abu Dhabi Culinary Season, “The World of Cuisine Abu Dhabi” has been created to highlight Abu Dhabi’s best dining options. It includes a ‘where to’ style guide across a diverse menu of over 100 culinary destinations, making it a reference to turn to whatever you’re in the mood for. If you’re looking for an expansive fine dining scene, the book lists the best international concepts like Cipriani, Cafe Milano, Zuma and Hakkasan and more. Meanwhile, off-the-beaten-track hidden gems include across-the-board Al Markaziyah, Khyber Darbar for Afghani food and Indonesian bites at Bandung. Additionally, some of the traditional Emirati venues that get a mention in the book are Fanar Restaurant and Cafe, Yadoo’s House and Fa’e Cafe. There are also some must-visit spots to go to with your BFFs for coffee and dessert.
Tom Aikens
The all-inclusive guide features a ‘need to know’ section too, which advises newcomers to the emirate about food-related customs and traditions. Plus, there are various profiles of those helping make the Abu Dhabi culinary scene so vibrant, including Tom Aikens (Oak Room), Faisal Naser (Lento) and Khaled al Saadi (Fa’e Café).
