5 of the best restaurants in Abu Dhabi this week
For a laid-back midday bite with a view, Bushra's business lunch is a solid go-to. Tucked along Yas Bay Waterfront, the space leans luxe but relaxed, with warm interiors and a menu that leans into elevated Middle Eastern flavours. The lunch deal keeps things simple: two courses and a drink for Dhs109, or upgrade to a glass of grape or bubbly for Dhs129. Good for catch-ups, casual meetings, or just switching up the usual lunch routine.
Location: Yas Bay Waterfront, Yas Island
Times: Monday to Friday, 1pm to 5pm
Cost: Dhs109 (two courses + soft drink), Dhs129 (with grape or sparkling)
Contact: 050 601 1195 | @bushra_abudhabi Barbossa
Tuesdays at Barbossa are all about tacos and margaritas. Two hours of unlimited handmade tacos – served on fresh corn tortillas and paired with your choice of salsa and classic margaritas. The vibe is laid-back, the food is simple yet satisfying, perfect for long lunches or post-work catch-ups.
Location: Barbossa, Yas Bay Waterfront
Times: Tuesdays 6pm to 2am
Cost: Dhs130 (with soft drinks), Dhs180 (with margaritas) per person
Contact: 050 402 2286 | @barbossa_auh Café Milano
If you're after a weekday lunch that feels classic and refined, Café Milano has you covered. The set menu features Italian staples crafted with fresh, seasonal ingredients – choose between two or three courses, all served with serene waterfront views on Al Maryah Island.
Location: Café Milano, Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi at Al Maryah Island
Times: Monday to Friday, 12pm to 5pm
Cost: Dhs175 (two courses), Dhs195 (three courses), excluding drinks
Contact: 02 333 2444 | @cafemilanoae 99 Sushi Bar
If you love sushi, the weekday omakase lunch at 99 Sushi Bar is worth blocking time for. It's a 10-course set menu that runs from noon to 2.15pm and includes standouts like baby squid tempura, Dragonfly maki, Toro flambe nigiri, and black cod – plus dessert and coffee, all for Dhs199.
Location: 99 Sushi Bar, The Galleria, Four Seasons Hotel, Level 1, Al Maryah Island
Times: Monday to Friday, 12pm to 2.15pm
Cost: Dhs199 per person (includes service charge and VAT)
Contact: 02 672 3333 | @99sushibaruae Graphos Social Kitchen
If you're in the mood for simple, comforting food in a relaxed setting, Graphos Social Kitchen is a solid choice. Two courses including pad Thai, burgers, and pasta come to just Dhs89.
Location: Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island
Times: Mon-Fri, 12.30pm–3.30pm
Cost: Dhs89 (two courses)
Contact: 02 208 6906 | @graphossocialkitchen
> Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
What's On
4 days ago
- What's On
Abu Dhabi restaurants to try this weekend
Looking for dinner plans this weekend? Whether you're in the mood for something fancy or keeping it casual with friends, Abu Dhabi's dining scene has plenty to offer. We've rounded up some of the top Abu Dhabi restaurants to check out this weekend. Hakkasan Hakkasan Abu Dhabi holds a Michelin Star, a testament to Chef Lee's expertise honed since 2003 at the original Hakkasan in London. The menu reflects Modern Cantonese roots with a focus on exceptional ingredients and a personalised approach to dining. Location: Emirates Palace, West Corniche Road, Abu Dhabi Times: Daily from 6:30pm to 11:30pm Contact: (0)2 690 7739 | @hakkasanabudhabi Bushra by Buddha-Bar For a laid-back midday bite with a view, Bushra's business lunch is a solid go-to. Tucked along Yas Bay Waterfront, the space leans luxe but relaxed, with warm interiors and a menu that touch on elevated Middle Eastern flavours. The lunch deal keeps things simple: two courses and a drink for Dhs109, or upgrade to a glass of grape or bubbly for Dhs129. Good for catch-ups, casual meetings, or just switching up the usual lunch routine. Location: Yas Bay Waterfront, Yas Island Times: Monday to Friday, 1pm to 5pm Cost: Dhs109 (two courses + soft drink), Dhs129 (with grape or sparkling) Contact: 050 601 1195 | @bushra_abudhabi Coya Located in the Four Seasons Hotel at The Galleria on Al Maryah Island, Coya Abu Dhabi offers a vibrant fusion of Peruvian, Japanese, Chinese, and Spanish cuisines. The restaurant's design features rich Incan-inspired decor, creating an immersive dining experience. With floor-to-ceiling windows, guests can enjoy panoramic views of the waterfront while indulging in meticulously crafted dishes. Location: Four Seasons Hotel, The Galleria, Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi, UAE Times: Dinner is served from 6.30pm to 11pm, Monday to Thursday, and from 6.30pm to 12am on Friday and Saturday. On Sunday, dinner is served from 6.30pm to 10.30pm. Contact: (0)2 306 7000. @coyaabudhabi Pappas Taverna Pappas Taverna brings the spirit of Greece to the heart of Abu Dhabi, offering a contemporary twist on traditional Greek cuisine. Originally a popular destination on MacDougal Street in New York's East Village, the Taverna now welcomes you at W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island, where you can indulge in a selection of exquisite dishes that honour Greek culinary traditions. Location: W Abu Dhabi, Yas Island, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi Times: 6pm to 11pm daily, except Mondays when it is closed. Lunch Saturdays from 12p to 3.30pm and on Sundays from 1pm to 3.30pm. Contact: (0)2 656 0000. @pappastavernaad > Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in
Emirates Woman
5 days ago
- Emirates Woman
9 boutique hotels we're checking into this Summer
What is on offer once you arrive are some of the most remarkable boutique hotels in the world. These intimate hideaways are designed for a more relaxing experience with your friends and families, while getting the best of both worlds through art and culture. From quirky restaurants to murals created by local artists, each element is carefully sought-after and designed to perfection for a wholesome experience. Be it loft-style settings or a traditional Bedouin style aesthetic, each theme is carefully considered for a memorable journey. With a boutique hotel room to check into, you will not only enjoy all of the luxury this part of the UAE has to offer. But also be able to enjoy some quirky room features, design aesthetics, and one-off hotel room layouts. Always check the full-service description of each boutique hotel. So you know more than just the rating of the property but also whether it provides parking services. It is ideal if you are driving from the airport or arriving by road from across the desert. Note, too, that some of the best hotels in the UAE provide special offers to international guests. Therefore, despite the luxury on offer, you can expect some great prices. Overall, the options are vast and varied. We've eliminated the guesswork and rounded up our favourite Dubai hotels for all travel preferences. Here is our tried-and-tested pick of the best hotels in emirate to visit. If you're looking for a midweek escape or weekend retreat at any of these authentic stays. Anantara Santorini Abu Dhabi Retreat By bringing a slice of Greece to the UAE, this intimate adult-only property offers 22 guest rooms in utmost tranquility. Inspired by the eponymous Greek island, it features captivating views of the Gulf stretch from each spacious room, suite, and sun-soaked terrace, inviting guests to become immersed in the splendid azure waters of the infinity pool and sea. The accommodation boasts soft furnishings in neutral colours in a soothing style which is reflected throughout the public areas of the resort. Inside the property, a serene infinity pool and lavish facilities offer perfect distractions, in addition to pampering therapies at Anantara Spa. Opening offer rates for buy now, stay now at Anantara Santorini Abu Dhabi Retreat start from Dhs2,699 including breakfast for two people. For more information visit here. Al Seef Heritage Hotel Located on the banks of Dubai Creek, Al Seef Hotel by Jumeirah is a throwback to the UAE's traditional architecture. The 200-room hotel is spread across 22 separate Arabian Bayt (homes), with a common courtyard. Based on the pictures, it's going to feel like stepping back in time. The rooms feature Middle Eastern woven fabrics, wooden beams, lamps, rustic ceilings with fans, antique light switches and replica old-fashioned radios and carpets. Bookings for Al Seef Hotel will open at the end of this month, with an opening offer price of Dhs250 per room per night. A bargain, if you ask us. Bab Al Shams Desert Resort The lavish property Bab Al Shams has reopened its doorslast year. Captivating destination experiences and vibrant entertainment will be the beating heart of the reborn resort, spreading intangible energy to every stay and imprinting everlasting memories. From archery to camel riding, visitors can try a host of enticing activities during this rejuvenating weekend. This luxurious desert resort includes a host of unforgettable experiences that celebrate the enthralling landscape surrounding this property. Starting from Dhs1,300 guests can enjoy a sophisticated journey in the desert with contemporary rooms and suites designed with Arabian flair and detail. Mysk Al Faya Retreat Explore the true beauty of the Mleiha region at this sophisticated gem. Experience Middle Eastern luxury with amenities such as the herbal room, the salt pool, the tropical shower walk and the hands-free spa that makes the desert camping experience in the UAE unique. Away from the city, this desert retreat is the place to be. The Muse With the plethora of boutique hotels in Dubai, The Muse is the latest one to be added to the list. Situated in Jumeirah Garden City, this avant-garde destination promises an immersive experience that transcends the ordinary. Guests can Indulge in the epitome of comfort with meticulously curated rooms and suites that redefine aesthetics The state-of-the-art fitness center and wellness facilities are designed to rejuvenate the body and mind. Whether it's a workout session at the gym with a view or an energizing padel tennis sport, The Muse ensures a holistic approach to guest well-being. Overall, this property provides a wide range of contemporary living with unmatched uniqueness and conceptualisations, from stylish and spacious apartments to top-class facilities. Prices for a one-night stay start from Dhs459. For more information visit here. XVA Art Hotel View this post on Instagram A post shared by dena دينا (@denaanwar) This one-of-a-kind property is located in the heart of the Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood, the oldest community in Dubai. Unique for its Persian architectural heritage, this getaway is an art-oriented salon, created as a forum for artists and art lovers looking for a more natural, peaceful setting amidst the bustling city. Prices for a one-night stay start from Dhs450 and ensure guests can stay relaxed as they experience this short-haul escape. For more information visit here. Chedi Al Bait, Sharjah To embark on a traditional Emirati cultural journey, guests can book a getaway at this ultimate summer retreat. It gives guests an opportunity to experience a distinct cultural setting. For more information visit here. Hotel Indigo Hotel Indigo Dubai Downtown was one the first of its kind offering a truly one-of-a-kind experience with its design-led detailing features. The venue features impeccable views of Dubai's skyline offering guests the opportunity to overlook the up-and-coming Dubai Creek as they also embrace local creative partnerships through eclectic elements which have a dash of culture imbued in it as the popular destination continues to attract a diverse crowd ranging from Gen Z travellers to millennials. Guests wanting to de-stress or relax can visit the wellness deck where they can work up a sweat in the gym, find headspace in the yoga studio or lap-it-out in the 25-metre infinity pool. The rates start from Dhs349 per room per night including breakfast. Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa Inspired by the Bedouin setup from back in the day, amidst the dunes lies one of Dubai's most romantic hotels with its sumptuous tents complete with their own private pools, handcrafted furnishing and its very own butler service. With all the privacy you need, this luxurious getaway is definitely a romantic staycation for all. Prices start at Dhs5,492 per night along with 2 desert activities. For more information visit here. – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram Images: Supplied & Feature image: Instagram @babalshams
Gulf Today
7 days ago
- Gulf Today
Abu Dhabi expands operation of autonomous taxis to Al Reem and Al Maryah Islands
As part of the Smart and Autonomous Systems Council's (SASC) strategy, the Integrated Transport Centre (Abu Dhabi Mobility ), an affiliate of the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT), has announced the expansion of autonomous taxi services to include Al Reem and Al Maryah Islands, in collaboration with WeRide, a global leader in autonomous driving technology, as well as Uber and Tawasul Transport as the local operator of the project. The initiative supports Abu Dhabi's efforts to develop an AI-powered mobility system to reinforce its position as a regional hub for smart mobility and innovation, as part of Abu Dhabi's smart transport strategy, which aims to create a sustainable and smart mobility environment that serves both residents and visitors in the emirate. With this latest expansion, autonomous taxi services now cover about half of Abu Dhabi's core areas, supporting Abu Dhabi's strategic vision to make 25% of trips in the emirate rely on smart transport by 2040. The service is intended to introduce autonomous vehicles in two of Abu Dhabi's most densely populated areas: Al Reem and Al Maryah islands. These islands are key centres for the financial, residential, and commercial sectors. Their complex traffic patterns and high vehicle density provide an ideal setting to demonstrate the advanced capabilities of WeRide's technology. At the same time, the initiative supports growing demand for reliable and easily accessible mobility solutions amid increasing traffic challenges. This launch builds on the autonomous taxi services already available on Al Saadiyat and Yas Islands, as well as routes to Zayed International Airport. It is part of an ongoing plan to expand the fleet and extend the reach of Abu Dhabi's smart mobility project. Since this service started on the Uber platform in December 2024, the autonomous taxi fleet has tripled in size. The Integrated Transport Centre (Abu Dhabi Mobility) is also working to roll out the service to more areas on Abu Dhabi Island in the future, ensuring broader coverage and improving the overall efficiency of the smart mobility system across the emirate. This paves the way for the commercial operation of the project, aligning with strategic goals for smart transformation in the transport sector and reinforcing Abu Dhabi's position as a global hub for mobility innovation. By integrating AI and sustainable mobility solutions into key sectors, Abu Dhabi is reinforcing its position as a leading example for Middle Eastern cities striving for smart urban development. This reflects the emirate's smart mobility strategy, which connects different modes of transport and makes use of modern technology to benefit the community. Dr Abdulla Hamad AlGhfeli, Acting Director General of the Integrated Transport Centre, said: "This expansion marks an important milestone in Abu Dhabi's journey towards realising its vision for a smarter and safer mobility system. Building on the success of our previous smart mobility initiatives, we are working to extend the deployment of autonomous vehicles to high-density areas such as Al Reem and Al Maryah islands, in order to provide a safer and more efficient travel experience, in line with Abu Dhabi's smart transport strategy, which aims to provide sustainable and innovative mobility solutions. "We are committed to embracing innovative and sustainable solutions to enhance our transport network and improve the quality of life for our residents. By working closely with our strategic partners, we are accelerating this progress and enhancing the transport experience for everyone." Jennifer Li, Chief Financial Officer and Head of International at WeRide, said: "Al Reem and Al Maryah Islands are dynamic, high-demand areas and serve as key gateways to Abu Dhabi. This expansion gives us the opportunity to reach more passengers, showcase our advanced technology in complex urban settings, and further accelerate the deployment of autonomous vehicles across the city. We deeply appreciate the ongoing support from the Integrated Transport Centre and our strong partnership with Uber, which continues to drive our growth in the Middle East and beyond." Mohamad Jardaneh, Head of Autonomous Mobility, Middle East at Uber said: 'We're pleased to expand our autonomous vehicle service in Abu Dhabi to Al Reem and Al Maryah in partnership with WeRide and with the support of The Integrated Transport Centre. We've seen some great engagement from riders in Abu Dhabi since launch and are excited to make autonomous rides more accessible to even more people in the emirate. Just as Uber helped millions experience electric vehicles for the first time, 2025 will be the year we bring AV technology into the mainstream." Abu Dhabi has reinforced its position as a regional leader in smart mobility, becoming the first city in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region to commercially operate autonomous vehicles. The emirate currently operates the largest active fleet, with 44 autonomous vehicles serving key locations across the city. This expansion reflects the success of strategic partnerships led by Abu Dhabi with leading global companies in technology and mobility such as WeRide, Space42, Uber and Tawasul Transport, contributing to the development of an advanced smart mobility ecosystem. WeRide is considered one of the most prominent technology companies specialising in autonomous driving technologies. Its fleet in Abu Dhabi is the largest it operates outside the US and China, reaffirming the emirate's position as a leading hub for innovation in mobility and reflecting its vision to develop a smart mobility system that supports sustainable urban development goals.
