From the acclaimed chefs to the most daring of dishes, these are Abu Dhabi’s MICHELIN-starred restaurants.
Abu Dhabi has received the MICHELIN seal of approval. With the unveiling of the MICHELIN Guide Abu Dhabi 2026, restaurants in the capital have been awarded three MICHELIN Stars. No new stars were awarded, although one star was lost, and there are still no two or three-star restaurants in the capital. So, if you’re looking for a meal to remember – and one that got the inspectors excited, no less – here are Abu Dhabi’s MICHELIN-starred restaurants.
One MICHELIN Star
Erth
Dedicated to carrying forward the vibrant and generous spirit of Emirati hospitality, Erth is aptly located between Qasr Al Hosn (the oldest standing structure in Abu Dhabi) and the Cultural Foundation. Here, a warm and cosy space is intricately carved out of the raised floor, inspired by the look and feel of a traditional majlis. Proudly showcasing the region’s culinary diversity, Erth’s chefs expertly prepare everything from fresh salads to local specialities like deconstructed date cake and sweet luqaimat. International delicacies with an Emirati touch – such as Bzar-marinated beef short ribs, juicy Wagyu beef striploin, and fresh torched salmon crudo – also await. As one of Abu Dhabi’s only MICHELIN-starred restaurants, it’s also the only Emirati restaurant in the world to be awarded a star.
GO: Visit https://erthrestaurant.ae for more information.
Hakkasan Abu Dhabi
Regulars of this exclusive international brand will instantly recognise the sultry, chic oriental décor at this branch, located in the iconic Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi. Guests enter into a bustling dining room of electric blue hues, ornate wooden screens and a glass-fronted show kitchen that is always buzzing with activity. All the time-honoured classics are on the menu, like Peking Duck, Chilean Sea Bass and their celebrated Dim Sum. However, if there’s one thing you have to order, make sure it’s the Jasmine Tea Smoked Wagyu Beef Ribs, boasting robust beef flavours and subtle yet aromatic tea nuances.
GO: Visit https://hakkasangroup.com for more information.
Talea by Antonio Guida
This beautiful Italian restaurant at the Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, under the direction of chef Antonio Guida, celebrates family-style cooking – or ‘cucina di famiglia’. Dishes may appear quite simple, but the flavours are exhilarating. From handmade Ravioli, Spaghetti alla Carbonara and artisanal Pizza to Osso Buco and Vitello Tonnato (a chilled veal dish that forms an indispensable part of the Assumption Day feast in Milan), the menu fuses traditional techniques with an innovative edge, a signature of Guida. Save room for the delightful Tiramisu, which is made right in front of you. It’s easy to see why this chic Italian restaurant was recognised as one of Abu Dhabi’s MICHELIN-starred restaurants.
GO: Visit www.mandarinoriental.com for more information.
Bib Gourmand
The Bib Gourmand category is a distinction awarded to establishments that provide an excellent value-for-money three-course meal. The MICHELIN Guide Abu Dhabi Bib Gourmand selection featured four restaurants.
3Fils
The expansion of the 3Fils brand has seen the homegrown concept take over the space formerly occupied by the nightclub ANNEX at The Abu Dhabi EDITION. 3Fils Abu Dhabi spans three levels and features two terraces overlooking Al Bateen Marina. Like its Dubai counterpart, the restaurant serves many of its fan-favourite dishes. From the open kitchen, Head Chef Jhovani remains faithful to the original formula of bold, umami-rich plates, featuring dishes such as A5 Wagyu Claypot, Grilled Black Lime Baby Chicken, and a series of specials.
GO: Visit https://3fils.com for more information.
Almayass
Almayass is where Lebanese and Armenian cuisine meet influences from around the Mediterranean. The original restaurant was founded in Beirut in 1996, and this large Abu Dhabi branch inside The Galleria Al Maryah Island is where the circular booths are the prized seats. The extensive and appealing menu of richly flavoured and carefully prepared dishes features Kibbeh karaz, a wonderful marriage of lamb and cherries.
GO: Visit http://almayass.com for more information.
Al Mrzab
At Al Mrzab, the need to patiently await a table underscores the well-earned popularity of this authentic restaurant. While it consistently bustles with activity, the chefs exhibit evident diligence in crafting timeless, affordable Emirati and Kuwaiti culinary delights. Diners have the choice of eating at conventional dining tables or on plush floor cushions surrounding low tables. The menu features a variety of authentic Emirati dishes, including majbous (a mixed rice dish with meat or fish), harees (a wholesome wheat porridge mixed with meat), and the restaurant’s signature mixed mutaban – zesty potato wedges filled with spiced meat.
GO: Follow @almrzab.ae on Instagram for more information.
Beirut Sur Mer
The name says it all – this is about enjoying Lebanese food by the sea. With an experienced team occupying the open kitchen, you can expect all the classics, from mezze to mashawi. Enjoy a culinary escape to the Levant inside a dining room filled with natural light, where foliage hangs from the ceiling or retreat onto the beachfront terrace. An ideal spot for post-cultural refuelling after visiting the nearby Louvre Abu Dhabi. Portions are generous and prices are reasonable.
GO: Follow @beirutsurmer on Instagram for more information.
Bua Thai
Founded by Chef Buaban C. Tucker, whose passion for Thai flavours began in her kitchen preparing food for earthquake victims in Nepal, Bua Thai embodies resilience and dedication, reflected in every dish. Inspired by a secret garden, the intimate and cosy ambience blends modern and traditional Thai elements, with lush greenery, wooden furniture, and intricate artwork creating a serene atmosphere. The menu celebrates Thailand’s rich culinary heritage and includes classics such as Pad Thai, Mango Sticky Rice, and Tom Yum Soup.
GO: Follow @buathaicafe on Instagram for more information.
Goldfish Sushi & Yakitori
The restaurant from Chef Akmal Anuar offers a modern twist on traditional Japanese cuisine, from new-style sashimi to nigiri, maki rolls, and an array of yakitori skewers and clay pot dishes. The menu offers a selection of Goldfish favourites, including the signature Wagyu Sliders, Tuna & Guac Dip, flavourful clay pots and the Tori Ramen, crafted with onsen egg, chicken char siu, and a touch of chilli oil. For dessert lovers, the Chocolate Tarte, served with ice cream or the Matcha Cheesecake, accompanied by a salty Parmesan cheese ice cream, are must-tries. Goldfish Sushi & Yakitori is also committed to sourcing the finest ingredients ethically. Plus, with an open kitchen concept, guests can witness the kitchen staff working their magic firsthand.
GO: Visit https://goldfishsushiyakitori.com for more information.
Mika
Abu Dhabi is awash with Mediterranean restaurants, and it’s hard to stand out from the culinary crowd. Mika on Yas Marina has achieved something surprising – it offers authenticity and affordability, all while still feeling like a luxurious location. Independently owned and operated by Chef Mario Loi, the menu spans snacks, raw, small plates, larger plates and desserts. Don’t leave without trying the Fried Feta Cheese – a slab of cheese encased in filo pastry.
GO: Visit https://mika.ae for more information.
Otoro
Al Qana witnessed many restaurant openings in 2022, including this contemporary Japanese spot. Under the guidance of consultant-chef Akmal Anuar (who saw MICHELIN success in Dubai with 11Woodfire), fresh produce from various prefectures of Japan – Wagyu from Kagoshima, Otoro from Tokyo, and Uni from Hokkaido – has been key in the creation of its highly tempting dishes. Signatures include Yellowtail Carpaccio, Tuna Tartare with yuzu dressing, Wagyu Striploin with magnolia leaf and truffle jus, and the titular Otoro Nigiri. The relaxed restaurant has a funky feel and is dominated by a large open kitchen.
GO: Visit www.otoroabudhabi.com for more information.
Ryba
Emirati chef Faisal Mohamed Alharmoodi created the homegrown seafood restaurant Ryba. Located in Souq Al Mina, the restaurant’s name translates to “fish” in Russian. The menu offers everything from simple fish and chips to flavour-filled paella. So, whether you prefer it grilled, steamed, or lightly fried to crispy perfection, Ryba, with its enviable seafront setting, offers a dining experience that marries contemporary flavours with Abu Dhabi’s rich heritage.
GO: Follow @ryba.ae on Instagram for more information.
Tazal
Tazal is dedicated to cultivating culture and relationships through global cuisine with an Arabic touch that reasserts Arabic heritage through the origin of coffee and a fusion of fine dining food experiences. Dishes such as tanja short ribs and zaatar sea bream are as delicious as they are original; the crème brûlée kufana is another example. The modern dining room has an urban feel and diners have the option to relax on the outdoor terrace with scenic views of the marina.
GO: Visit https://tazal.com for more information.
The MICHELIN guide selection for 2026 features 99 Sushi Bar & Restaurant, Al Farah, Antonia, Bord Eau by Nicolas Isnard, Broadway, Butcher & Still, Byblos Sur Mer, Café Milano, Catch at St. Regis, Cipriani Dolci, COYA Abu Dhabi, Dai Pai Dong, Em Sherif Sea Café, Finz, Fouquet’s Abu Dhabi, Grand Beirut, José by Pizarro, Kopitiam by Chandy’s, La Petite Maison Abu Dhabi, Li Beirut, Li Jiang, Martabaan by Hemant Oberoi, Maté, Meylas, Mijana, Moksh, Namak, NIRI Restaurant & Bar, Novikov Abu Dhabi, Oak Room, Oii, Paradiso, Pincode by Kunal Kapur, Punjab Grill, Ray’s Grill, Sand & Koal, Strawfire by Ross Shonhan, Taparelle, Tean, Terra, Villa Mamas, Villa Toscana and Zuma
GO: Visit www.michelin.com for more information.