Craving the rich flavors of India in Abu Dhabi? You’re in luck. The capital is home to some of the best Indian restaurants in the UAE, from fine-dining experiences with a modern twist to casual eateries that remind you of home-cooked comfort. Whether you love creamy curries, sizzling tandoor dishes, or vegetarian delicacies, these restaurants deliver the true taste of India. In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 Indian restaurants in Abu Dhabi.
Rangoli is an award-winning fine dining Indian restaurant situated in Yas Island Rotana, offering a sophisticated dining experience. The ambiance is stylish and contemporary, featuring plush red booths and rustic wooden partitions, providing a warm and inviting atmosphere. The menu blends North and South Indian cuisines, with standout dishes like spicy lamb chops and Murg Mahani. Known for its flavorful biryanis and kebabs, Rangoli also boasts an extensive wine and beverage menu, perfect for a chic dining experience. The restaurant is ideal for families and groups who are looking for a relaxed yet vibrant setting with a modern twist on traditional Indian dishes. Highly recommended items include the spicy lamb chops and Murg Mahani.
Operating Hours: Daily from 18:00 – 00:00
Located in the Erth Hotel in Al Maqtaa, Al Rimal Restaurant offers a diverse selection of cuisines, including international, Arabian, Emirati, Lebanese, and Italian. The restaurant boasts modern interiors with elegant design elements, providing a welcoming atmosphere. The menu features a variety of dishes from different cultures, including both Indian and Arabic offerings, and is known for its well-organized layout and high-quality dishes. In addition, guests can enjoy a diverse range of beverages to complement their meals. Ideal for those seeking a variety of cuisines in one place, Al Rimal provides an authentic representation of Emirati culture and heritage through its culinary offerings. Popular dishes to try include the Indian and Arabic specialties.
Operating Hours:
05:30 – 11:00, 12:00 – 16:00, 18:00 – 23:00
Punjab Grill is a fine dining restaurant offering contemporary Indian cuisine. The elegant and stylish interiors provide a luxurious dining experience, complemented by stunning waterfront views. The restaurant features a blend of traditional and modern Indian dishes, with a menu known for its rich, buttery, and uniquely flavored offerings. Punjab Grill also serves a selection of unique signature beverages. It’s an ideal destination for those seeking an upscale dining experience. The restaurant presents an impressive array of both progressive and classic North Indian/Punjabi dishes, with signature dishes like tandoori shrimp and seafood salad.
Operating Hours: 12:00 – 23:45
Located in the Marriott Hotel Al Forsan in Khalifa City, Khayal Restaurant offers an extensive range of international cuisines. The restaurant is known for its buffet, featuring a variety of international dishes, and also includes live cooking stations for a more interactive dining experience. The comfortable seating area adds to the relaxed atmosphere, while the buffet allows guests to sample a wide array of Arabic, international, and seafood options. Khayal also features a live pasta station and a variety of delicious desserts, making it a great choice for families and groups. Its diverse menu ensures there’s something for everyone.
Operating Hours: 06:30 – 22:30
Located in the Dusit Thani Hotel, Namak offers a modern Indian dining experience with an upscale atmosphere. The restaurant features great lighting and a sophisticated environment that enhances the dining experience. Namak specializes in a tasting menu inspired by various regions across India, providing guests with a diverse array of flavors. The menu is particularly known for its lamb shank and chaat dishes. To elevate the dining experience, Namak provides a gin trolley to start off the meal. It’s an ideal choice for those seeking a refined dining experience with a variety of Indian flavors. Popular dishes to try include the lamb shank and chaat.
Operating Hours:
Monday –Saturday: 12:30 –21:30
Sunday: 10:00 – 15:00 and 19:00 – 23:00
Indigo, located beside the Beach Rotana Hotel, offers a contemporary take on North Indian cuisine. The restaurant features a warm, elegant setting with both indoor and outdoor seating options, creating a welcoming atmosphere. Indigo is known for its modern take on classic favorites like biryani, kebabs, and chaat. A standout dish is the Sikhandari Raan, a pot-roasted leg of baby lamb. The restaurant serves both lunch and dinner, making it suitable for a variety of dining occasions. It’s perfect for those seeking a casual dining experience with authentic Indian flavors. The Sikhandari Raan and biryani are highly recommended dishes.
Operating Hours: 13:00 – 00:00
Located at Yas Bay Waterfront, Zeera by Buddha-Bar brings a modern twist to Indian cuisine, offering a vibrant and dynamic atmosphere. The restaurant features stunning interiors, soothing music, and a beachfront view that enhances the overall dining experience. Zeera serves a variety of Indian dishes with a contemporary approach, known for its flavorful creations and vibrant presentations. On select days, guests can enjoy live music and dance performances. This is an ideal venue for those seeking a lively dining experience with a mix of Indian flavors. Recommended dishes include the Malai Tikka boti, butter chicken, garlic naans, and carrot halwa.
Operating Hours: 13:00 – 02:00
Located in Souk Qaryat Al Beri, Ushna offers authentic North Indian cuisine with a modern flair. The restaurant features elegant interiors with both indoor and outdoor seating options, providing stunning views of the Grand Mosque. Ushna is known for its traditional dishes with a modern twist, and popular menu highlights include the lamb chop bharra and tandoori chicken tikka. The restaurant also offers private dining areas and valet parking for a more exclusive experience. It’s perfect for romantic dinners and special occasions, providing impeccable service and authentic flavors. The lamb chop bharra and tandoori chicken tikka are must-try dishes.
Operating Hours: 12:00 – 23:00
Located in the Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers, Moksh offers a fusion of traditional and contemporary Indian cuisine. The restaurant features vibrant colors and playful décor in a luxurious setting, creating a unique dining environment. Moksh specializes in innovative dishes that blend traditional Indian flavors with global techniques. Its standout dishes include the Raan Mussallam and chaat. Moksh also offers a full bar, private dining areas, and a weekend brunch, making it an ideal choice for those seeking an upscale dining experience with a modern twist on Indian cuisine. The Raan Mussallam and chaat are highly recommended.
Operating Hours: Daily from 12:00 – 23:30
India Palace, located in Abu Dhabi's Tourist Club Area, offers a royal dining experience with delicious North Indian and Mughlai dishes. The restaurant has a comfortable and elegant atmosphere, with traditional wooden furniture and beautiful Mughal-inspired decor. The menu features popular dishes like Lamb Raan, Butter Chicken, Dal Makhani, and Chicken Dum Biryani, along with a range of tasty vegetarian options. India Palace is a great place for families, couples, or groups, and it also offers private dining for special events. With services like delivery, takeaway, and online ordering, it’s easy to enjoy their food at home or in the restaurant. Whether you're a local or a visitor, India Palace is the perfect spot to enjoy authentic Indian food in a welcoming setting.
Operating Hours: Daily from 12:00 – 23:30
With its vibrant Indian community, Abu Dhabi celebrates authentic flavors like few other cities in the region. From North Indian classics to South Indian specialties, these restaurants bring every corner of India to your table. The only challenge? Deciding which one to try first, and resisting the urge to order everything on the menu. So, book on WINGIE, enjoy the best deals, and find the cheapest flights to Abu Dhabi.
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