Aparthotel Adagio Abu Dhabi Al Bustan

Bahraini chef Roaya Saleh leaves her mark in Abu Dhabi with this elegant Khaleeji restaurant. The interior is a little like a conservatory, with plants all around, colourful artifacts, fresh fruits on display, and shelves of homemade spices, syrups and chefs’ cookbooks. The menu showcases flavours and dishes loved in the region, such as chicken machbous and hummus topped with lamb cubes.

Meaning ‘legacy’, Erth is made up of many striking elements, from its dramatic location as part of the Qasr Al Hosn cultural site, to its bold architecture. Inside, the polished concrete and bespoke furniture, along with modern majlis, make for a unique environment. Equally memorable is the food which, while modern, is anchored firmly in Emirati traditions when it comes to flavours, cookware and ingredients sourced from farms across the Emirates. A modern take on lamb machboos delivers tender lamb slow-cooked in a sweet and savoury teriyaki sauce, served with fluffy, fragrant rice. We suggest

This friendly, contemporary Japanese spot is perfect for a bite to eat when visiting the nearby National Aquarium in Al Qana. The space has a relaxed, funky feel and is dominated by a large open kitchen to watch the team in action. The experienced chef, under the aegis of consultant-chef Akmal Anuar from 11 Woodfire in Dubai, has a diligent brigade supporting him. Ingredients are flown in from various prefectures of Japan, like wagyu from Kagoshima, otoro from Tokyo and uni from Hokkaido. Signatures include yellowtail with green chili and leche de tigre, wagyu striploin with truffle jus and wa

It may be quite hard to pigeon-hole the style of cooking here as it’s a fusion of European influences and Arabic touches, but the results can be exhilarating. Dishes such as Iranian kabab and bang bang shrimps are as delicious as they are original; the kaak Al Quds is another example. The modern room has an urban feel and the service is delightful. They do a very good weekend breakfast and coffee is also a passion of theirs.

Almayass is where Lebanese and Armenian cuisine meet influences from around the Mediterranean. The original was founded in Beirut in 1996 and this large Abu Dhabi branch, where the circular booths are the prized seats, continues the tradition of offering an extensive menu of very generous portions – ideal for sharing. Start off with one of their fresh, vibrant Itch salads before moving on to Meshwi Shekaf – grilled veal with spiced bread. This spot is not just for one-time visits – you’ll have to come often to do this menu justice.

A culinary voyage around India drawing on myriad influences is the draw here at this colourful restaurant within the Dusit Thani hotel. The passion of the kitchen team really comes through in the carefully prepared dishes. The lamb specialities are particularly good, whether that’s Kashmiri Rogan Josh or Kakori Reshmi Seekh. There’s plenty for vegetarians too, including sharing platters.

Dubai’s popular restaurant makes its way to Abu Dhabi. Located in the Al Bateen marina, this large contemporary Japanese eatery is set over three floors and boasts minimal, modern design. It’s a relaxed, yet lively environment, with baseball capped chefs serving modern plates such as chargrilled baby chicken, prawns and sashimi from the open kitchen. Their ‘Take Me To The Moon’ is what chocolate lover’s dreams are made of.