Must-Try Foods In Corniche Beach (Abu Dhabi) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Corniche Beach, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

The culinary traditions of Abu Dhabi and the Corniche area are deeply rooted in the Emirati culture, characterized by a fusion of flavors from the Arabian Peninsula, Middle Eastern, and Asian cuisines. The Corniche, being a splendid promenade, has gained reputation not only for its scenic beauty but also for being a hub for gastronomes. With a range of high-end restaurants, charming eateries, and local food stalls, Corniche Beach provides an eclectic mix of dining experiences. The influence from the sea is evident in the local dishes where seafood is a staple. Over the years, the influence of the expatriate population has also brought international flair to the local food scene.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Corniche Beach, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

1. Al Harees: A traditional local dish prepared with wheat, chicken (non-veg), and salt. It is known for its long cooking time and is a staple during Ramadan and Eid.
2. Tabbouleh: A refreshing Levantine vegetarian salad made with tomatoes, finely chopped parsley, mint, bulgur, and seasoned with olive oil, lemon juice, and salt.
3. Shawarma: A popular Middle Eastern non-veg dish consisting of thinly sliced marinated chicken or other meats, rolled into a flatbread and served with vegetables and sauce.
4. Humus: A creamy vegetarian dip made from cooked, mashed chickpeas blended with tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and garlic, often served with flatbread.
5. Falafel: Deep-fried vegetarian balls or patties made from ground chickpeas or fava beans, typically served with salad, pickled vegetables, hot sauce, and tahini-based sauces.
6. Grilled Halloumi: A delicious vegetarian option featuring Halloumi cheese that is grilled until it has a crispy exterior and soft, melting interior, often served with vegetables.
7. Fattoush: A Levantine bread salad made from mixed greens and pieces of toasted or fried pita bread, combined with other vegetables and herbs, and often dressed with a vinaigrette. It is a vegetarian dish.
8. Mahshi: This vegetarian dish consists of vegetables like zucchinis, peppers, and eggplants stuffed with a fragrant rice and herb mixture.
9. Samosa: A fried or baked pastry with a savory filling, such as spiced potatoes, onions, peas, lentils, and sometimes minced lamb, beef, or chicken, making it either vegetarian or non-veg based on the filling.
10. Umm Ali: A traditional non-veg dessert similar to bread pudding, made with pastry, milk, cream, nuts, and sometimes chicken as per local variations.

Top Famous Restaurants in Corniche Beach, Abu Dhabi, with Address and Famous Food

• Byblos Sur Mer:
  InterContinental Abu Dhabi, King Abdullah Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud St.
  Famous Food: Grilled seafood platter (non-veg)
• Bocca:
  Hilton Abu Dhabi, Corniche Rd W.
  Famous Food: Risotto ai frutti di mare (non-veg)
• Emirates Palace:
  W Corniche Rd.
  Famous Food: Camel Burger (non-veg)
• La Terrazza:
  Hilton Abu Dhabi, Corniche Rd W.
  Famous Food: Margherita Pizza (vegetarian)
• Marakesh:
  Millennium Corniche Hotel Abu Dhabi, Khalifa St.
  Famous Food: Moroccan Tagine (veg/non-veg options available)
• Corniche All Day Dining:
  Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche, Corniche Rd E.
  Famous Food: International Buffet with various veg and non-veg options
• Mekong:
  Anantara Eastern Mangroves Abu Dhabi Hotel, Sheikh Zayed St.
  Famous Food: Pad Thai (veg/non-veg options available)
• Li Beirut:
  Jumeirah at Etihad Towers, Corniche Rd W.
  Famous Food: Lebanese mezzes (veg and non-veg options)
• Catch:
  Nation Riviera Beach Club, Corniche Rd.
  Famous Food: Sushi and seafood (non-veg)
• Hakkasan:
  Emirates Palace, W Corniche Rd.
  Famous Food: Dim Sum (veg/non-veg options available)