Food History of Mangrove Marine National Park, Abu Dhabi

The Mangrove Marine National Park in Abu Dhabi is more known for its ecological significance and natural beauty than its food history. However, being a part of Abu Dhabi, it shares in the emirate's rich culinary traditions which have been influenced by a blend of Arabian, Persian, Indian, and Eastern Mediterranean cultures over centuries. The coastal location of the park also makes seafood a prominent part of the local cuisine.

Top 10 Must-Try Food Dishes in Mangrove Marine National Park, Abu Dhabi

1. Shawarma (Non-Veg): This is a Middle Eastern favorite, featuring chicken or lamb that has been marinated, slow-roasted on a spit, and served in a wrap or pita with vegetables and tahini sauce.
2. Fattoush (Veg): A Lebanese bread salad made with mixed greens, fresh vegetables, and pieces of toasted or fried pita bread, all tossed in a zesty sumac dressing.
3. Tabbouleh (Veg): A refreshing parsley-based salad mixed with bulgur wheat, tomatoes, mint, onion, and dressed with olive oil and lemon juice.
4. Hummus (Veg): A creamy spread made from cooked, mashed chickpeas blended with tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and garlic, often served with flatbread.
5. Grilled Halloumi (Veg): This firm, briny cheese originated in the Middle East is often grilled or fried and served with vegetables.
6. Baba Ganoush (Veg): A dish made from roasted eggplants mixed with tahini, olive oil, possibly lemon juice, and various seasonings.
7. Kousa Mahshi (Non-Veg): Zucchini or courgettes stuffed with rice and mixed with meat, pine nuts, and spices, cooked in tomato sauce.
8. Umm Ali (Veg): A traditional Egyptian dessert, similar to a bread pudding, which includes puff pastry, milk, and nuts.
9. Samak Mashwi (Non-Veg): A Mediterranean-style grilled fish dish often marinated with a variety of spices and served with rice or salad.
10. Falafel (Veg): Deep-fried balls or patties made from ground chickpeas, commonly served in a pita, with pickled vegetables and tahini sauce.

Top Famous Restaurants in Mangrove Marine National Park, Abu Dhabi

Anar Restaurant

Address: Eastern Mangroves Promenade, Abu Dhabi

Famous food: Tabbouleh (Veg)

Seafood Market

Address: Eastern Mangroves Promenade, Abu Dhabi

Famous food: Samak Mashwi (Non-Veg)

Mashawi Al Arabi

Address: Eastern Mangroves Hotel & Spa by Anantara, Abu Dhabi

Famous food: Shawarma (Non-Veg)

Carluccio’s

Address: Eastern Mangroves Promenade, Abu Dhabi

Famous food: Grilled Halloumi (Veg)

Mango Tree Thai Bistro

Address: Eastern Mangroves Promenade, Abu Dhabi

Famous food: Thai Green Curry (can be Veg or Non-Veg)

Pekin Restaurant

Address: Eastern Mangroves Hotel & Spa by Anantara, Abu Dhabi

Famous food: Dim Sum (can be Veg or Non-Veg)

Almaz by Momo

Address: The Galleria, Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi

Famous food: Couscous (Veg)

BoatHouse Restaurant

Address: Eastern Mangroves Hotel & Spa by Anantara, Abu Dhabi

Famous food: Grilled Seafood Platter (Non-Veg)

The Terrace on the Corniche

Address: Corniche Road, St. Regis Abu Dhabi

Famous food: Middle Eastern Mezze (can be Veg or Non-Veg)

Berry and Brambles

Address: Eastern Mangroves Promenade, Abu Dhabi

Famous food: Vegan Avocado Toast (Veg)