A Culinary Journey Through India: Top 15 Indian Restaurants in Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi, the dazzling capital of the United Arab Emirates, offers a vibrant tapestry of cultures and cuisines. Nestled amongst its futuristic skyscrapers and opulent hotels lies a haven for Indian food lovers. From regional specialties to contemporary takes on classics, Abu Dhabi's Indian restaurant scene caters to every palate. Here's a glimpse into 15 of the top Indian restaurants in the city, each promising a unique and flavorful experience:
Top 15 Indian Restaurants in Abu Dhabi
1. India Palace
Awaken your senses at India Palace, a fine dining haven celebrated for its elegant ambience and authentic North Indian fare. Their signature dishes like the melt-in-your-mouth Dal Makhani and the flavorful Rogan Josh are cooked to perfection using traditional recipes. They also boast an impressive selection of kebabs and biryanis, perfect for a celebratory meal.
2. Asha's
A household name in the Indian restaurant scene, Asha's brings a touch of celebrity chef magic to Abu Dhabi. The menu, curated by the renowned Asha Punjabi, offers a delightful journey through Punjabi cuisine. Savour their creamy Butter Chicken, the succulent Tandoori Chicken, or the vegetarian Malai Kofta, all bursting with fragrant spices.
3. Indigo Restaurant
Nestled within the luxurious Beach Rotana Hotel, Indigo offers a contemporary twist on classic North Indian dishes. Their innovative plating and focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients elevate the dining experience. Must-tries include their Raan-e-Sikandari, a slow-cooked leg of lamb, and the flavorful Malai Tikka Makhani.
4. Tamba
Embark on a culinary adventure to the bustling streets of Mumbai at Tamba. This vibrant restaurant specializes in street food and regional favourites from Maharashtra. Indulge in their signature Vada Pav, a potato fritter encased in a soft bun, or savour the melt-in-your-mouth Misal Pav, a spicy lentil curry with a pav bun. Don't miss their refreshing Lassi, the perfect accompaniment to any meal.
5. Peppermill
Nestled in the Eastern Mangroves, Peppermill offers a warm and inviting atmosphere perfect for a family dinner. Their menu encompasses a wide range of North Indian dishes, catering to both vegetarian and non-vegetarian preferences. Their Paneer Tikka Masala and the succulent Lamb Rogan Josh are crowd-pleasers, while their extensive bread basket allows you to experience the delightful variety of Indian flatbreads.
6. Angar
Yas Island's Angar promises a truly opulent dining experience. Inspired by the rich culinary heritage of the Mughal Empire, their menu features an array of regal dishes. Savour their melt-in-your-mouth Raan Biryani, a slow-cooked lamb dish with fragrant rice, or indulge in the flavorful Murgh Makhani, a creamy butter chicken dish. The opulent setting and attentive service enhance the culinary journey.
7. Barbecue Nation
Experience the joy of DIY grilling at Barbecue Nation, a popular chain restaurant offering a unique live grill concept. Their menu features a wide selection of marinated meats, seafood, and vegetables that you cook at your table on a built-in grill. The accompanying buffet features an array of curries, dals, and accompaniments, allowing you to create your perfect Indian feast.
8. Rangoli Restaurant
Escape the ordinary and delve into the vibrant world of South Indian cuisine at Rangoli. This contemporary restaurant offers a delightful selection of dishes from Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh. Their Dosas, thin crispy crepes filled with various savoury combinations, are a must-try. Sample their Sambar, a lentil stew, or the fiery Vada, a lentil fritter, for a truly immersive South Indian experience.
9. Saravanaa Bhavan
A haven for South Indian comfort food, Saravanaa Bhavan is a popular choice for a quick and satisfying meal. Their menu boasts a wide variety of Dosas, Idlis (steamed rice cakes), and Uttapams (thicker versions of Dosas). Don't miss their Filter Coffee, a strong concoction brewed in a traditional South Indian filter, for the perfect ending to your meal.
10. Via Delhi
Craving a taste of North Indian street food? Via Delhi is your answer. This casual eatery offers a delightful selection of kebabs, rolls, and curries, all prepared with fresh ingredients and authentic spices. Their Chicken Tikka Masala Roll and the Dahi Bhalla (fried lentil dumplings soaked in yogurt) are a must-try for a quick and flavorful bite.
11. Ushna Restaurant
Embark on a culinary journey to the coastal regions of India at Ushna. This restaurant specializes in seafood curries and dishes from Kerala and Goa. Savour their Prawn Curry, a coconut-based delicacy, or the Meen Moilee, a fish curry cooked in a creamy yogurt sauce.
12. Avasa
Immerse yourself in the rich flavours of Mughlai cuisine at Avasa. This restaurant, located within the InterContinental Abu Dhabi Hotel, offers a regal dining experience with a focus on slow-cooked dishes and aromatic spices. Their signature dishes include the melt-in-your-mouth Nihari, a slow-cooked stew, and the flavorful Haleem, a stew made with meat, lentils, and wheat.
13. Flavors of India
As the name suggests, Flavors of India offers a vibrant exploration of diverse regional Indian cuisines. This casual eatery is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal, with a menu featuring curries, biryanis, and street food favourites from across the country. Their Chicken Tikka Masala, Lamb Rogan Josh, and Dosas are all popular choices.
14. Lazeez Restaurant
Lazeez caters to a wider audience, offering a selection of North Indian dishes alongside Chinese and seafood specialties. Their menu includes popular choices like Butter Chicken, Dal Makhani, and Tandoori Chicken, but also features tempting seafood curries and stir-fries. This makes it a great option for groups with diverse palates.
15. Artisan Kitchen
While not exclusively Indian, Artisan Kitchen offers a delightful Indian buffet experience as part of its diverse international cuisine offerings. This casual restaurant features a rotating selection of dishes, including curries, biryanis, and vegetarian options, allowing you to sample a variety of Indian flavours in a single visit.
Beyond the Restaurants
This list merely scratches the surface of Abu Dhabi's diverse and vibrant Indian restaurant scene. From budget-friendly cafes to fine-dining establishments, the city offers something for every taste and occasion. Whether you're looking for a quick bite, a family feast, or a special occasion dinner, Abu Dhabi's Indian restaurants are sure to tantalize your taste buds and transport you on a culinary journey to the heart of India. So, embark on your exploration and discover your favourite spot to savour the rich flavours and warm hospitality of Indian cuisine in the heart of Abu Dhabi.