Air France cancels eight flights to and from Heathrow
French airline Air France cancelled eight flights to and from London Heathrow on Friday after a fire at a power sub-station shut down Europe's busiest airport.
Flights to other UK airports are operating normally, Air France said.
The group's Dutch airline KLM said it canceled three return flights.
(Reporting by Michal Aleksandrowicz Additional reporting by Mateusz Rabiega Editing by Sudip Kar-Gupta and David Goodman )
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Time Out Abu Dhabi
19 minutes ago
- Time Out Abu Dhabi
Best restaurants near Etihad Arena: Where to fuel up ahead of concerts
Etihad Arena is buzzing most days of the week with award ceremonies, mega concerts, and even UFC and NBA. All that buzzing, however, means lots and lots of hungry – and thirsty – visitors on Yas Island. Luckily, the island is jam-packed with lots of brilliant bars and restaurants near Etihad Arena (something our waistlines and the Time Out Abu Dhabi Restaurant Awards shortlist can attest to). So whether you're in the area for a show or just popping in, here are the best bars and restaurants near Etihad Arena – according to our official list of the best restaurants in Abu Dhabi. Bonus: All of the spots on this list are within a short walking distance of the arena, making it perfect for fuelling up pre- or post-concert. Bars and restaurants near Etihad Arena Time Out Abu Dhabi Restaurant Award 2025 Winners Art Market We all know breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and there's no better place to enjoy it than Art Market. Using a small but mighty selection of fresh, local, ethically sourced ingredients to create some of our favourite early morning dishes, start your day with your choice of French toast with orange zest and cinnamon, organic porridge with coconut, almond butter and berries or lots of different things on toast, to name a few, enjoyed with coffee specials that will blow your socks off. But it's not just breakfast here: this place is licensed so you can get drinks all day as well as an all-day menu. Licensed. Yas Bay, Yas Island, (052 917 1523). Bua Thai Café Credit: Bua Thai Café Bua Thai Café is one of the biggest crowd-pullers on Yas Bay Waterfront, and rightly so. Founded by Chef Buaban C. Tucker, whose culinary journey started by preparing food for earthquake victims in Nepal, the menu celebrates tangy Thai tapas as well as classics like pad Thai, mango sticky rice and tom yum soup. We're big fans of the interiors too – think lush greenery, wooden furniture and intricate artwork. This secret garden-inspired eatery is a visual delight. Licensed. Yas Bay Waterfront, Yas Island, @buathaicafe (02 575 3158). Nuri Credit: NURI Grill & Bar Perhaps the finest Korean restaurant in town for you to salivate over, Nuri is a sizzling Korean steakhouse that offers prime cuts of meat, chic interiors, a stylish bar and even karaoke rooms where you can sing to your heart's content after a few mixed drinks. Before that you'll want to get stuck into its highest quality, and ethically-raised, cuts of meat, with an emphasis on wet-ageing to really make the meat stand out from the crowd. Order à la carte or opt for the omakase menu which will leave the selection up to the chefs. The choice is yours. Licensed. Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island, @nurigrillbar (054 211 5151). Time Out Abu Dhabi Restaurant Awards – Highly Commended Barbossa Credit: Barbossa If endless views, tacos and Mexican mixed drinks sound like your definition of a good time then you've come to the right place at Barbossa. Spearheaded by Chef Mina Mouris Zaki, this street food spot has taken over the space formerly occupied by La Carnita, bringing modern Mexican and Latin American cuisine to the capital through authentic highlights like Barbossa ceviche, carne asada tacos, guac & chips, fajitas and tuna ceviche tostada. It's got a lively bar scene too, so be sure to stick around for a drink (it's one of our favourite nightlife spots in Abu Dhabi). Licensed. Yas Bay Waterfront, @barbossa_auh (050 185 8068). Siddharta Lounge by Buddha-Bar Overlooking the twinkling waters of Yas Bay, this swanky rooftop bar is one of the best places to head for drinks and bar bites with a cool crowd and fantastic views. Part of the Trilogy by Buddha-Bar, bar snacks here err on the fancy side, with sushi, ceviche and maki taking pride of place on the Mediterranean-Asian fusion menu, and taste even better against unobstructed views of Abu Dhabi's sunsets. Arrive early and stay late for when the party really kicks in. Licensed. Yas Bay Waterfront, Yas Island, (050 601 1194). Time Out Abu Dhabi Restaurant Awards – Shortlisted Bushra by Buddha-Bar We've mentioned The Trilogy already, and Bushra by Buddha-Bar is yet another must-visit restaurant near Etihad Arena. Bushra has an exciting Middle Eastern menu and dishes are well-crafted and delicious. Dive straight into the mezze – the muhamarra is a standout – before making your way through the grills and creative desserts. Licensed. Yas Bay Waterfront, Yas Island, (050 601 1195). Daikan Izakaya Another eatery serving up delicious Asian dishes on Yas Island is Daikan. You'll find Abu Dhabi's first branch of the Dubai favourite on the pier at Yas Bay, but unlike the Dubai OG, in Abu Dhabi, Daikan takes the form of an izakaya (including drinks licence), expanding on its menu to include a wider variety of dishes. It's still small in scope, but a touch more varied, featuring a handful of starters and salads; small plates including gyoza, avocado steak and a katsu chili bao; sushi and sashimi; different kinds of ramen, and a charcoal grill. Licensed. Yas Bay Waterfront, Yas Bay (022 358 680). EL&N London If you're on the hunt for the pinkest desserts in town, look no further than EL&N London at Yas Bay Waterfront (you literally can't miss it). This ultra-pink, Instagram-worthy spot is perfect for those who love all things bright and bubbly. EL&N's space offers both indoor and outdoor seating, a big dessert menu, and more pink than you can imagine. From indulgent French toast for breakfast to a hearty s'mores cookie pan or the Dutch baby pancake – and of course, the colourful drinks like the blue sapphire iced latte. Unlicensed. Yas Bay Waterfront, Yas Island, (02 883 9395). Hanar Brought to us by the same team behind the well-loved Daikan, this Mesopotamian-meets-Anatolian spot is so undeniably cosy and comfy, that you'll find yourself wanting to spend all afternoon or evening there. For mains, you can't miss the lamb neck. Served with a touch of theatre as the chefs deconstruct it right at your table, revealing tender morsels of meat from the bone, it's well-seasoned and generous enough for two to share. In the mood for something smaller? The lamb chops deliver on flavour. When dessert rolls around, expect something a little different: a deconstructed baklava cream cheese. It's a unique twist on the classic, balancing all the sweetness with a whole lot of texture. Plus, it couldn't be closer to Etihad Arena unless it was inside the actual venue. Licensed. Yas Bay. (02 639 0017). Hunter & Barrel Credit: Hunter & Barrel With its elegant façade, carnivorous menu and epic location set directly against the twinkling water of the marina, Hunter & Barrel has carved out a reputation as one of Abu Dhabi's top steak restaurants. Originally hailing from Dubai, this Australian steakhouse has a focus on sharing, with signature grills and meat cuts served on communal boards, so make sure you order a bunch of stuff to share. Its burgers are also some of the best in the business if you're looking to shake things up a bit. Licensed. Yas Bay Waterfront, Yas Island, (02 886 8299). McCafferty's Super popular since it opened in 2023, McCafferty's is a crowd favourite any day of the week. The pub has 10 different hops and apple-based beverages on tap, but you can also order bottled hops, alongside grapes by the glass or bottle and short measures. On the food front, you can expect all your pub favourites, such as chicken wings, fish and chips, burgers and pizzas. Licensed. Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island, (058 598 3623). Neighborhood Café & Bar A super laid-back spot to refuel in between adventures on Yas Island, Neighborhood serves up good vibes all day long. Expect hearty breakfasts, unrestrained desserts, and everything in between – think comfort food with a creative twist, all made with fresh, local ingredients. Whether you're after a quick coffee, a long lunch, or a cheeky drink with friends, this stylish licensed café nails the mix of chill and charm. Bonus: it's got that artsy Yas energy too. Licensed. Yas Creative Hub. (02 585 8065). Osmo Lounge & Bar Credit: Osmo Lounge & Bar Yas Island may be best known for its impressive array of adrenaline-fuelled activities, but if you're after something a little more relaxing, head to the Hilton Abu Dhabi's Osmo Lounge & Bar. From a popular afternoon tea to Bubbles & Beats on Fridays when you can pick from a selection of delicious bar bites, it's a great spot if you want a bit of luxury before heading to your show or gig. Licensed. Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island, @osmolounge (02 208 6900). Paradiso Shortlisted in our Best Italian category, Paradiso does not only serve up delicious Italian fare but also pretty spectacular views over Yas Bay. Do try chef Nicole's famous linguine and the frosted lemon Paradiso – the refreshing burst of citrus goes down just as smoothly as a shot of Italian lemon short drink and does a splendid job of leaving you refreshed on a hot day. Licensed. Yas Bay Waterfront, Yas Island, Zeera by Buddha-Bar As to be expected from the Buddha Bar brand, the recipes and preparations at this contemporary restaurant have a unique twist, while there are occasional hints of more traditional influences too. Home to perhaps the most picturesque setting of all Indian restaurants in the city, it sits pretty on Yas Bay Waterfront and serves up stunning sunsets alongside sharing-style plates, biryanis and traditional tandoori grills to name a few. Licensed. Yas Bay Waterfront, Yas Island, (050 601 1193). You might also like… Abu Dhabi's Best Restaurants: All the places you should try at least once All the top places in one read Dance the night away: the best bars and nightclubs in Abu Dhabi to bust a move Ready to party? The 43 best Abu Dhabi ladies' nights you need to know about Enjoy a night out for less at these brilliant bars and restaurants
Time Out Abu Dhabi
19 minutes ago
- Time Out Abu Dhabi
These are the best restaurants on Yas Island
Looking for the best restaurants in Yas Island? We got you. Home of Etihad Arena, Yas Marina Circuit and Yas Bay Waterfront, there's a lot happening in this corner of the capital. Whether you live close by, are visiting for the day or evening or attending a big event, Yas Island has lots of great places to eat and drink. We've made finding the best restaurants here just that little bit easier (we can't have you going hungry), rounding up the best restaurants on Yas Island. Each of these eateries was either a winner, highly commended or shortlisted for our Time Out Abu Dhabi Restaurant Awards 2025, so you can be sure these really are the best of the best restaurants on Yas Island. Now, let's get eating! Best restaurants on Yas Island Time Out Abu Dhabi Restaurant Award 2025 Winners Art Market We all know breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and there's no better place to enjoy it than Art Market. Using a small but mighty selection of fresh, local, ethically sourced ingredients to create some of our favourite early morning dishes, start your day with your choice of French toast with orange zest and cinnamon, organic porridge with coconut, almond butter and berries or lots of different things on toast, to name a few, enjoyed with coffee specials that will blow your socks off. Licensed. Yas Bay, Yas Island, (052 917 1523). Bua Thai Café Credit: Bua Thai Café Bua Thai Café is one of the biggest crowd-pullers on Yas Bay Waterfront, and rightly so. Founded by Chef Buaban C. Tucker, whose culinary journey started by preparing food for earthquake victims in Nepal, the menu celebrates tangy Thai tapas as well as classics like pad Thai, mango sticky rice and tom yum soup. We're big fans of the interiors too – think lush greenery, wooden furniture and intricate artwork. This secret garden-inspired eatery is a visual delight. Licensed. Yas Bay Waterfront, Yas Island, @buathaicafe (02 575 3158). Mika Credit: Mika Middle Eastern meets Mediterranean cuisine at this breezy Yas Marina hotspot, which has perhaps our favourite terrace on the island. Casual yet contemporary with a menu that celebrates bold flavours, the food here aims to please with the likes of cod croquettes, pan-fried prawns, lamb and tuna tacos, octopus and calamari. Head chef Mario Loi is also passionate about sustainability – he grows herbs and vegetables for his dishes in the chef's garden next to the main restaurant – which is also evident in his zero-waste policy. Licensed. Yas Marina, Yas Island (056 433 1422). Nuri Credit: NURI Grill & Bar Perhaps the finest Korean restaurant in town for you to salivate over, Nuri is a sizzling Korean steakhouse that offers prime cuts of meat, chic interiors, a stylish bar and even karaoke rooms where you can sing to your heart's content after a few mixed drinks. Before that you'll want to get stuck into its highest quality, and ethically-raised, cuts of meat, with an emphasis on wet-ageing to really make the meat stand out from the crowd. Order à la carte or opt for the omakase menu which will leave the selection up to the chefs. The choice is yours. Licensed. Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island, @nurigrillbar (054 211 5151). Time Out Abu Dhabi Restaurant Awards – Highly Commended Barbossa Credit: Barbossa If endless views, tacos and Mexican mixed drinks sound like your definition of heaven then you've come to the right place at Barbossa. Spearheaded by Chef Mina Mouris Zaki, this street food spot has taken over the space formerly occupied by La Carnita, bringing modern Mexican and Latin American cuisine to the capital through authentic highlights like Barbossa ceviche, carne asada tacos, guac & chips, fajitas and tuna ceviche tostada. It's got a lively bar scene too, so be sure to stick around for a drink. Licensed. Yas Bay Waterfront, @barbossa_auh (050 185 8068). Crafty Fox There are many reasons to raise a glass to Crafty Fox. Not only does this Dubai import boast a bespoke beverage menu with plenty of new and old-world grape labels, draft hops and signature mixed drinks, but you can also tuck into Irish comfort food at its finest, with classics like the cottage pie, fish and chips and loaded flatbreads all gracing the menu. And did we mention those amazing 360-degree views of the putting green? With plenty of big screens, it's also a great place to watch the footie, which begs the question – is there anything this place can't do? Licensed. Yas Links Abu Dhabi, Yas Island, @ (02 404 3081). Garage Abu Dhabi's premier party brunch, put on your swishiest dress and head over to the W Abu Dhabi for its award-winning B.I.G Brunch at Garage, which is all about stylish patrons, free-flowing drinks and incredible tunes. Oh, and of course, there's some food thrown in for good measure, with five culinary hubs serving food from around the world, including a mezze spread, exciting Asian flavours, and premium meat cuts from the Vault. This is a brunch that's also about the vibes though, so expect DJs pumping out all your favourite tunes. This weekend is all about F1 though so unless you have a reservation, you'll have to bookmark for another time. Licensed. W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island, (02 656 0000). Maxzi The Good Food Shop If you only order one thing at Maxzi The Good Food Shop, make sure it's the bona fide, utterly brilliant maxzimum meat lover burger with a Wagyu patty, slow-cooked brisket, and crispy beef bacon. While it might not be solely a burger joint, this place does some of the best in the business, with an assortment of starchy sides that make for the perfect complement. What more could you ask for? Unlicensed. Yas Mall, (056 996 6540). Mr Kim Credit: Mr Kim The perfect spot to grab something delicious before a show at Etihad Arena or after an action-packed day at Yas Island's many theme parks, Mr Kim is Yas Mall's first fully licensed restaurant, so it's already off to a great start. This very cool Korean restaurant, founded by Emirati entrepreneur Mohamed Juma Al Bawardi Alfalasi, brings innovative foodie fusions to a fun, industrial-chic setting. Specialising in steak, it's a bit of a no-brainer why this is such a popular dining spot with its selection of fine Wagyu cuts – from the impeccable Japanese A5, Australian MB9+ to the robust USDA prime. Licensed. Yas Mall, @ (052 443 9314). Siddharta Lounge by Buddha-Bar Overlooking the twinkling waters of Yas Bay, this swanky rooftop bar is one of the best places to head for drinks and bar bites with a cool crowd and fantastic views. Part of the Trilogy by Buddha-Bar, bar snacks here err on the fancy side, with sushi, ceviche and maki taking pride of place on the Mediterranean-Asian fusion menu, and taste even better against unobstructed views of Abu Dhabi's sunsets. Arrive early and stay late for when the party really kicks in. Licensed. Yas Bay Waterfront, Yas Island, (050 601 1194). Soraya From the creators of London's top dining spots like Pachamama comes Soraya, a Persian-inspired restaurant that's located at Yas Mall. Here, you can try incredible high-end Persian dishes like juicy skewers of marinated meats and vegetables that'll whisk you away to the vibrant streets of Tehran. Soraya's all-day menu is made for communal feasting, so head down with the whole gang and enjoy dishes that blend traditional home-cooked flavours with an undeniably cool modern twist. Mall Abu Dhabi, Yas Island, (056 509 0504). Time Out Abu Dhabi Restaurant Awards 2025 – Shortlisted Acres Grill House, Yas Acres Amerigos Mexican Bar & Restaurant, Park Inn by Radisson Abu Dhabi, Yas Island Boo Burger, Yas Mall Bushra by Buddha-Bar, Yas Bay Waterfront Daikan Izakaya, Yas Bay Waterfront EL&N London, Yas Bay Waterfront Hanar, Yas Bay Waterfront Hunter & Barrel, Yas Bay Waterfront Maria Bonita Taco Shop & Grill, Yas Mall McCafferty's, Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island Neighborhood Café and Bar, Yas Creative Hub Osmo Lounge & Bar, Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island Pappas Taverna, W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island Paradiso, Yas Bay Waterfront Rangoli, Yas Island Rotana Reach, Yas Island SLRP Ramen, Yas Mall Zeera by Buddha-Bar, Yas Bay Waterfront You might also like… The Time Out Abu Dhabi Restaurant Awards shortlist revealed – in full All the top places in one read Inside the Time Out Abu Dhabi review process Everything you need to know Everything you need to know about the best restaurants in the city Prepare to be hungry
Time Out Abu Dhabi
2 days ago
- Time Out Abu Dhabi
The best spots for solo dinners in Abu Dhabi
Dining alone doesn't have to mean grabbing a quick bite before diving straight into your phone – Abu Dhabi has plenty of spots where eating independently is an experience to relish in all its entirety. Whether you're in the mood to treat yourself to a delicate lunch, linger over a coffee in a chic setting or tuck into fresh seafood by the beach, these solitary-friendly restaurants have got you covered. So, next time you find yourself flying solo, skip the takeaway and head to one of these places where you can eat, relax and maybe even meet a few new friends along the way (or, let's be honest, just enjoy your own company). Bon appétit. Best places for solo dining in Abu Dhabi Art Market (Credit: Art Market) Breakfast alone? That just means no one will judge you for ordering both the French toast and the organic porridge – because, honestly, why choose? Art Market takes the most important meal of the day seriously, serving up a curated selection of fresh, locally sourced ingredients in dishes that feel like a warm hug. Whether you're diving into coconut-laced porridge, cinnamon-spiced French toast or something piled high on toast, this Yas Bay spot is perfect for those who like to start their day with great food, great coffee and zero distractions. Open Mon-Wed 8am-9pm, Thu-Fri 8am-11.30pm, Sat 7.30am-11.30pm, Sun 7.30am-9pm. Yas Bay, Yas Island, (052 917 1523). Bait El Khetyar (Credit: Bait El Khetyar) Solo dining is all about hidden gems and Bait El Khetyar is as hidden (and as gem-like) as it gets. Tucked away between shops for car parts, this unassuming Lebanese eatery is proof that great food doesn't need a fancy postcode – just a killer menu and a loyal following. Whether you're grabbing a quick shawarma on the go or settling in for a leisurely bite, you can't go wrong with the akawi cheese manaeesh sprinkled with black sesame. Plus, with prices that feel like a throwback to another era, there's no need for dining companions to split the bill – because you've got this one covered. Open 7am-12am. Al Najda Street, Al Danah, @bait_elkhetyar (02 633 3200). Beau Restaurant (Credit: Beau Restaurant) Not all solo dining experiences need to be candlelit affairs – sometimes, you just want a ridiculously good burger without the fuss. Enter Beau Restaurant, where you can enjoy one of Abu Dhabi's fanciest patties in peace, no awkward sharing required. This upscale fast-food spot ditches the diner aesthetic for something sleeker, making it the perfect place to treat yourself to a top-tier burger without feeling like you're at a greasy joint. The smash toast with Angus beef, melted cheese and a buttered bun is a standout, while the grand chicken burger with fried chicken, tartare sauce and more cheese is pure indulgence. No small talk, no compromise – just you, your burger and pure bliss. It doesn't get much better than that, right? Open Sun-Thu 10am-11pm; Fri-Sat 10am-midnight. Marina Mall, @beaurestaurants (02 441 0722). Breath By The Beach (Credit: Breath by the beach) Solo day out? Make it an especially great one by heading to Al Hudayriyat Beach. And you better be ready because in this corner of the capital, surf, sun and seriously good food await. Breath By The Beach is the kind of place where you can settle in, sip on a perfectly brewed coffee and pretend you're on a mini beach holiday – no itinerary required. Sounds great, right? The menu is packed with solo-friendly delights, from indulgent French toast to fresh sushi rolls, plus the kind of avo truffle scrambled eggs that make you feel like you're winning at life. Grab a seat, soak up the sea breeze and enjoy the perks of dining at your own pace. Open 7.45am-11.45pm. Breath By The Beach, Al Hudayriyat Beach (02 877 8839). Cacti (Credit: Cacti) Not every solo meal needs to be a grand event – sometimes, you just want a stylish little escape where you can enjoy great food without the fuss. Enter Cacti, a sleek new spot in Marsa Al Bateen that's as quiet as it is delicious. Whether you're in the mood for a leisurely lunch or a relaxed dinner, this is the kind of place where you can dine undisturbed, maybe with a book in one hand and a fork in the other. The menu is a global affair, featuring everything from creamy beef spaghetti with Australian tenderloin to fig and honey mustard salad, sushi rolls and a selection of desserts worth lingering over. Consider this your one-stop shop for all things tasty. Open Sun-Thu 9am-11.30pm; Fri-Sat 9am-midnight. Marsa Al Bateen, @ (02 622 5467). Din Tai Fung (Credit: Din Tai Fung) Few things are more satisfying than a solo dim sum feast and Din Tai Fung makes it an art form. This globally adored Taiwanese chain has made its mark in Abu Dhabi, serving up legendary xiao long bao – those delicate, soup-filled dumplings that have earned serious foodie cred worldwide. Beyond dumplings, the menu is packed with comforting soups and heaping bowls of noodles, perfect for refuelling after a marathon shopping spree at The Galleria. Plus, solo dining means you get to hoard the whole basket of dumplings without negotiating for the last one. Win-win. Open Sun-Thu 11am-10.30pm, Fri-Sat 11am-12am. The Galleria Al Maryah Island, @dintaifungae (02 446 7273). The Irish Vickers (Credit: The Irish Vickers) Riding solo doesn't always mean you're averse to a lively atmosphere. And for that, The Irish Vickers is a top choice, especially for those who want to soak in a bit of energy without needing company. This pub may be packed, but there's always room for one more at the bar – whether you're settling in for a perfectly poured drink or digging into a classic Irish breakfast (available any time of day, by the way). From pizzas to fish and chips, lamb shank to wings, the menu delivers comfort in spades. Plus, with big games on the screens, it's the perfect spot to grab a bite and join the buzz without feeling out of place. It's a winner. Open Mon-Thu 3pm-4am, Fri-Sun 12pm-4am. WTC Mall, @irishvickers_wtc (02 886 9636). Let's Matcha croissant at Let's When it comes to solo mornings, Let's is the kind of place that makes you want to linger. Forget rushing through your coffee – here, you're encouraged to take your time, savour each bite and let the Mediterranean-Middle Eastern dishes work their magic. From burrata zaatar to Turkish eggs and fresh pastries, every dish feels like a personal treat. And the local coffee? It's the perfect companion for your solo breakfast adventure. So, whether you're catching up on some reading or just enjoying the quiet (because 'me time' is the best time), Let's is the ideal place to start your day your way. Open 8am-12am. Al Saray Street, Khalifa City, @ (02 886 7740). Li Jiang (Credit: Li Jiang) Solo dining never looked so stylish. Whether you're after a quiet moment of indulgence or a front-row seat to one of the best views in Abu Dhabi, Li Jiang has you covered. This award-winning Asian fusion spot delivers on both flavour and atmosphere, with an outdoor terrace overlooking the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque – perfect for a solo meal with a side of scenery. The menu is a solo diner's dream, packed with dishes you can mix and match to suit your cravings. Slurp up a fragrant bowl of soup, dive into expertly crafted sushi or savour hand-pulled noodles and spicy curries at your own pace. Just be sure to book ahead – this spot is always in demand. Open 5pm-11pm. The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal, Khor Al Maqta, (02 818 8203). Majlis by Pierré Hermé (Credit: Majlis by Pierré Hermé) If solo dining is an art, then consider Majlis by Pierré Hermé your personal gallery of indulgence. The UAE's only outpost of the legendary 'Picasso of Pastry' is tucked inside the Rosewood Abu Dhabi, making it the perfect spot for a quiet moment of self-care – preferably with a macaron (or three) in hand. Whether you're here for a flawless flat white from The Espresso Lab or a delicate pastry that looks almost too good to eat, this is solo snacking at its most refined. There's no need to share, no need to rush – just sit back, sip and savour. Oui, très très bien, indeed. Open 7am-11pm. Rosewood Abu Dhabi, Al Maryah Island, @rosewoodabudhabi (02 813 5550). Mamafri (Credit: Mamafri) Solo dining is all about treating yourself and Mamafri makes that incredibly easy. A firm favourite among locals, this Emirati-owned spot delivers bold Southeast Asian flavours in a setting that feels effortlessly cool. Whether you're grabbing a quick bite or settling in for a full feast, the dusty pink interiors and stylish neutral tones make it a space you won't mind dining solo in – especially when the food is this good. The menu is stacked with standouts like crispy beef over mashed potato, mie goreng, Malaysian curry and ramen that packs a punch. Feeling indulgent? The Wagyu sando is an elite solo treat – no sharing necessary. Open Sun-Thu 12pm-1am, Fri-Sat 12pm-2am. Sheikha Fatima Park, (02 666 3312). Marmellata (Credit: Marmellata) If you're a pizza lover flying solo, Marmellata is the place where the pizza does all the talking. This gem at Mina Zayed serves up a rotating menu of pizzas that span from traditional to uniquely regional. Local ingredients like desert-grown mushrooms and figs from Liwa bring a fresh twist to the classic pie. They don't take reservations, so get there early – because once you taste their creations, you'll be glad you did. Whether you're grabbing a quick bite or lingering over a couple of slices, Marmellata offers the perfect solo pizza experience. Open Wed-Sun 4pm-9.30pm. Mina Zayed, @marmellatalove (055 802 9355). Oak Room (Credit: Oak Room) If you're looking to treat yourself to something a bit fancy, Oak Room is the place where satisfaction meets sophistication. With sleek décor, impeccable service and a menu that's all about premium meat and simple, yet bursting flavours, here you'll savour a meal in style. When you do feel like having a little chinwag, take your time and chat with the knowledgeable meat sommelier to find the perfect cut (or go for the beef-tasting menu if you're feeling indecisive). Either way, this is a solo dining experience that's guaranteed to hit all the right notes. Open Mon-Sat 6pm-11.30pm, Sun 12.30pm-5pm & 6-11.30pm. The Abu Dhabi EDITION, Al Bateen, (02 208 0000). Ryba (Credit: Ryba) When dining solo, sometimes you just want to be fully immersed in your meal and Ryba makes that easy. Located at Souq al Mina, this no-frills seafood haven delivers some of the freshest catches around – think succulent shrimp, flaky fish and lobster cooked just the way you like it. The best part? You're right in the heart of the action, so you can enjoy both the food and the welcoming atmosphere. Trust us, though – you won't need company here. With flavours this good, you'll be too busy savouring every bite. Open 12pm-12am. Mina Zayed, @ (02 584 5645). Sand & Koal (Credit: Sand & Koal) Solo dining with a side of sunset vibes? Yes, please. At Sand & Koal at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, you can sink into the sand, enjoy fresh seafood in all its glorious forms (raw, smoked, charred) and let the atmosphere do the rest. While the ambience invites lounging during the day, it's at sunset when the magic happens – fire dancers take over the stage, adding an extra touch of excitement to your solo feast. Perfect for those who want to indulge in tasty seafood and soak in the view, all while enjoying a meal that feels as special as you are. [Please note: Sand & Koal closes from June until October] Open Mon-Fri 5pm-1am, Sat 1pm-1am, Sun 3pm-1am. Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental Abu Dhabi, @ (02 690 7999). Taparelle Credit: Supplied When dining alone, a place with variety and atmosphere can make all the difference – and Taparelle delivers just that. This French-Italian tapas-style restaurant, which opened in December 2024, is more than just a place to eat; it's an experience. Whether you're in the mood for a quick bite while soaking up the Mediterranean-inspired vibe or want to set up camp at the co-working table for a remote work session, Taparelle's laid-back, yet stylish setting has you covered. With a menu crafted by head chef Omaka Marie Orubu, you can dive into an array of dishes like seabass carpaccio, wood-fired tomato or scallops grenobloise. There's also a special breakfast menu for the early birds. Plus, with its unique nod to Beirut's history through its salvaged wooden shutters, it's a solo dining spot with a story. Open noon-11pm. Breakfast from 9am-noon. Manarat Al Saadiyat, Saadiyat Cultural District. (02 657 5832). More food in Abu Dhabi Abu Dhabi's best restaurants: Everywhere you should eat at least once Your dinner inspo is sorted All the new restaurants opening in Abu Dhabi The new places you need to try 30+ amazing business lunch deals in Abu Dhabi So many options
