Satisfy your cravings for curry, spice and everything nice.
Abu Dhabi foodies, are you craving curry? Well, you’re in for a treat. Whether you’re after authentic North Indian awesomeness or South Indian spices, there’s something for everyone. Try dishes with a modern twist at Indigo, and contemporary classics at Martabaan by Hemant Oberoi. Here are the best Indian restaurants in Abu Dhabi.
Indigo
Indigo at Beach Rotana Abu Dhabi is a top spot to indulge in North Indian awesomeness with a modern twist. With mouthwatering kebabs, zesty chaat, dreamy biriyani, the signature Sikhandari Raan and a Pot-roasted Leg of Baby Lamb, you’re in for quite a flavourful ride. This place brings culinary finesse in style with a lively ambience, cool tunes and a feast that’ll blow your taste buds away. No wonder they bagged the Best Indian Restaurant 2022 FACT Dining Award in Abu Dhabi.
GO: Visit www.rotana.com for reservations and more information.
Martabaan by Hemant Oberoi
Be blown away by Martabaan, which serves up contemporary classic Indian cuisine, all thanks to the genius of Chef Hemant Oberoi. This place is nothing short of a regal dining room decked out in gold accents, vibrant artworks and vivid textiles that bring opulence. The menu includes Kursi Chaat, Can Can chicken, Martabaan Ka Meat and many more. For dessert, prepare to drool over Masala Chai Crème Brulée and Gulab Jamun Tiramisu.
GO: Visit www.mandarinoriental.com for reservations and more information.
Moksh
Moksh’s Chef Abs Patil has nailed the art of blending progressive ideas with traditional Indian flavours. This place is a paradise for foodies, offering a divine selection of tapas-style dishes infused with a fusion of flavours. Moksh takes things up a notch by using responsibly sourced ingredients, guaranteeing freshness in every single bite. And let’s not forget the stunning plush and colourful interiors that’ll leave you absolutely amazed.
GO: Visit https://mokshrestaurant.com for reservations and more information.
MYNT
Step into MYNT for an explosion of authentic Indian flavours fused with a modern 21st-century twist. This place redefines traditional Indian cuisine with a contemporary flair. The welcoming teal and wood interiors add a touch of minty freshness and a hint of India’s rich heritage. This culinary adventure, filled with warm hospitality and delightful dining experiences, is what makes MYNT stand out.
GO: Visit www.mynt.ae for reservations and more information.
Namak
Namak is all about celebrating the vibrant spirit of India. The brainchild of the fabulous celebrity Chef Kunal Kapur, Namak is more than just a restaurant – it’s an experience. With bold colours, ornate wooden doors and brass kitchen utensils, they’ve nailed the essence of India’s vivacity in both personality and food. The Crab and Mango Salad, the veggie-friendly Rocket and Cheese Paniyaram, or the succulent Katafi wrapped tiger prawn with pickled chilli cream and tobiko caviar are some of the delights. This place has got all the spices you need for a delicious adventure.
GO: Visit www.dusit.com for reservations and more information.
Nira
Located in Al Qana, Nira offers an innovative take on Indian cuisine, blending its bold flavours with those of the UAE. With a heavy influence of muted browns complemented by the use of textures, the Indian restaurant exudes a traditional Emirati feel. Arches reminiscent of a traditional Indian palace give it an extra bit of oomph. Elsewhere, the bar invites people to indulge as it overlooks the semi-open kitchen, allowing you to catch a glimpse of the kitchen staff while they’re crafting delicious delicacies. As for the food, expect a variety of dishes, including rice and meat blends, kebabs, and more.
GO: Follow @nirauae on Instagram for more information.
Pincode
Located in The Galleria at Al Maryah Island, Pincode by Kunal Kapoor promises Indian flavours with a regional twist. Pincode takes its name from the era of handwritten letters when family recipes were passed down through generations in raw, written form—sometimes in diaries—that mothers and grandmothers maintained. Kunal Kapoor borrows this name to share the flavours from across India, as a love letter to the region’s diverse culinary offerings. The menu is filled with dishes like Dates and Olive Malai Paneer Tikka, Popcorn Soup, Chicken Malai Tikka Caesar Salad, Amritsari Fried Fish, and Saag Burrata, which are must-tries. The desserts take things up a notch with Rasmalai Tiramisu, Falooda Sundae and much more.
GO: Visit https://pincodebykunalkapur.com for more information.
Punjab Grill
Punjab Grill serves up delectable North West Frontier food. The team has mastered the art of serving a royal experience on a plate. Watch the master chefs work their magic in the open kitchen, creating mouth-watering small plates perfect for sharing and rich curries bursting with genuine flavours from all corners of the subcontinent. So why wait? Let Punjab Grill take care of you and your taste buds.
GO: Visit https://punjabgrill.me for reservations and more information.
Rangoli
Rangoli is a culinary haven serving mouth-watering North and South Indian cuisine with a modern and chic ambience. From succulent Lamb Chops to melt-in-your-mouth Wagyu Ribs, their dishes are bursting with flavour. The desserts include Gulab Jamun Brioche Pudding and Ras Malai Custard with Chikki Ice Cream. Pure bliss.
GO: Visit www.rotana.com for reservations and more information.
Ushna
With a stellar reputation since its launch in 2005, Ushna has won hearts with its incredible food and welcoming service. The moment you step inside, you’ll feel the warmth and energy that Ushna brings to the table. The team skillfully blend classical Indian cuisine with a contemporary twist, creating dishes that are bursting with unique flavours. Nestled in Souk Qaryat Al Beri, Ushna is the go-to place for an authentic and modern Indian dining experience. It’s a true gem.
GO: Visit www.soukqaryatalberi.com for reservations and more information.
Zeera by Buddha-Bar
Located in Yas Bay, Zeera by Buddha-Bar is a funky, fun restaurant. The menu takes traditional Indian dishes and adds a modern flair. The menu includes chaat, starters, soup, tandoor and grill dishes. The mains include a Malai Lobster, Patta Macchi sea bream, and Raan 24 Carat lamb leg. Plus, there are old-school desserts, which range from Carrot Halwa to Gulab Jamun. There’s a reason this waterfront spot was named ‘Favourite Indian Restaurant’ in the capital at the FACT Dining Awards Abu Dhabi 2024.
GO: Visit www.zeera-abudhabi.com for reservations and more information.
