Abu Dhabi has become a true paradise for food lovers, and Indian cuisine holds a special place in the city’s diverse dining scene. Whether you’re craving rich butter chicken, fragrant biryani, or perfectly spiced vegetarian curries, the capital of the UAE offers countless options to satisfy your taste buds.
The Indian food Abu Dhabi scene ranges from elegant fine dining restaurants with stunning views to cozy family-run spots serving authentic street food flavors. You’ll find everything from traditional North Indian tandoori dishes to South Indian dosas, and from pure vegetarian thalis to succulent kebabs that melt in your mouth.
In this guide, we’ll take you through the top Indian restaurants in Abu Dhabi, including the best Indian vegetarian restaurants in Abu Dhabi, stunning waterfront locations, and hidden gems that locals love. Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner with a view, looking for budget-friendly lunch spots, or searching for that perfect weekend brunch, we’ve got you covered with the best Indian food in Abu Dhabi dining experiences the city has to offer.
10 Top Indian Restaurants in Abu Dhabi
1. Punjab Grill – Premium North Indian Dining
Punjab Grill stands out as one of the best Indian restaurants Abu Dhabi has to offer, bringing authentic North Indian flavors with a contemporary twist. Located in the heart of the city, this upscale restaurant creates an elegant atmosphere perfect for special occasions and business dinners.
The menu showcases signature dishes like Dal Punjab Grill, slow-cooked for hours to achieve perfect creaminess, and their famous Burrah Kebab that’s tender and packed with flavor. Vegetarians will be delighted with the extensive selection, making it one of the best Indian vegetarian restaurants in Abu Dhabi. Their paneer tikka and vegetable biryani are absolute must-tries.
What sets Punjab Grill apart is their attention to detail in presentation and service. The dim lighting, comfortable seating, and traditional Indian decor create an inviting ambiance. Prices are on the higher side, but the quality and portion sizes justify the cost. Expect to spend around 150-250 AED per person for a full meal with drinks.
2. Moksh Restaurant & Lounge
Moksh brings a modern approach to Indian restaurant in Abu Dhabi city dining, blending traditional recipes with contemporary techniques. This stylish lounge-restaurant hybrid is perfect for those who want their Indian food with a sophisticated twist.
The menu features innovative dishes like deconstructed samosas, molecular gastronomy-inspired curries, and fusion appetizers that surprise and delight. Their cocktail menu incorporates Indian spices and flavors, creating unique drinks you won’t find elsewhere. The butter chicken remains a classic favorite, prepared with a rich, velvety sauce.
The lounge atmosphere makes Moksh ideal for evening gatherings and weekend nights. Live music on certain evenings adds to the vibrant energy. While the fusion approach might not appeal to purists seeking traditional flavors, adventurous diners will appreciate the creative interpretations. The restaurant also offers good vegetarian options for those seeking Indian vegetarian restaurant in Abu Dhabi experiences.
3. Rosewater at Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers – Best Indian Restaurant with a View
When it comes to best Indian restaurants Abu Dhabi with a view, Rosewater takes the crown. Located on the 63rd floor of Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers, this fine dining restaurant offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf and the city skyline.
Rosewater specializes in modern Indian cuisine with influences from across the subcontinent. Their menu features delicacies like tandoori prawns, lamb rogan josh, and an impressive selection of biryanis. The Indian vegetarian restaurant in Abu Dhabi category is well represented here with dishes like dal makhani, vegetable jalfrezi, and their signature paneer preparations.
The elegant setting, impeccable service, and stunning views make Rosewater perfect for romantic dinners, anniversaries, and celebrations. The sunset views are particularly spectacular. Reservations are highly recommended, especially for window seats. This is premium dining with prices to match, but the experience is worth every dirham for a special occasion.
4. Kabab Jan – Authentic Kebab Experience
Kabab Jan brings authentic Afghan-Indian flavors to Abu Dhabi, specializing in perfectly grilled kebabs and traditional dishes. This Indian restaurant in Abu Dhabi city offers a more casual dining experience without compromising on taste or quality.
The star of the menu is their kebab selection, with options like chapli kebab, seekh kebab, and lamb chops marinated in secret spice blends. Their naan bread, baked fresh in the tandoor, is the perfect accompaniment. Rice dishes like kabuli pulao showcase the Afghan influence, while curries remain true to Indian roots.
The atmosphere is relaxed and family-friendly, making it a great spot for casual dinners. Prices are reasonable compared to fine dining options, offering excellent value for money. While vegetarian options are available, this restaurant truly shines with its meat preparations. It’s a local favorite that often gets busy during dinner hours.
5. Caesar’s Confectionery
Don’t let the name fool you. Caesar’s Confectionery is famous throughout Abu Dhabi for offering some of the best Indian food in Abu Dhabi at incredibly affordable prices. While they’re known for traditional Indian sweets and confections, their savory menu is equally impressive.
This casual eatery serves North Indian favorites like chole bhature, pav bhaji, and various chaats that capture authentic street food flavors. Their sweets section features classics like gulab jamun, jalebi, and barfi, perfect for satisfying your dessert cravings. The vegetarian options are extensive, making it popular among the Indian vegetarian restaurant in Abu Dhabi crowd.
The no-frills atmosphere focuses on food rather than ambiance. It’s perfect for takeaway orders and quick meals. Prices are incredibly budget-friendly, with most items costing a fraction of what you’d pay at upscale restaurants. The consistent quality and generous portions have earned them a loyal customer base over the years.
6. Pappu Paya
Pappu Paya is a hidden gem that serves authentic Indian breakfast and street food favorites. This Indian restaurant in Abu Dhabi is beloved by locals who crave traditional morning meals and late-night snacks.
The restaurant specializes in paya (slow-cooked trotters curry), nihari, and haleem, dishes that are hard to find done well elsewhere. Their breakfast menu includes favorites like aloo paratha, poori bhaji, and various dosa options. The street food selection features pani puri, dahi puri, and papdi chaat that taste just like they do on the streets of Mumbai or Delhi.
The atmosphere is simple and straightforward, focusing on authentic flavors rather than fancy presentation. Prices are very reasonable, making it accessible for daily dining. While primarily known for non-vegetarian options, they do offer vegetarian street food items. The restaurant gets particularly busy during weekend mornings when families come for traditional breakfasts.
7. Tandoori Corner
Tandoori Corner delivers reliable, classic Indian food Abu Dhabi residents have come to trust. This family-friendly restaurant focuses on traditional recipes and consistent quality that keeps customers coming back.
As the name suggests, tandoori preparations are the highlight here. Their tandoori chicken is marinated to perfection and grilled with just the right amount of char. The menu covers all the classics: butter chicken, palak paneer, dal tadka, and a variety of biryanis. Both vegetarian and non-vegetarian diners will find plenty of options to enjoy.
The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, perfect for family dinners and group gatherings. Service is friendly and efficient. Prices fall into the mid-range category, offering good value without the premium pricing of fine dining establishments. The restaurant maintains high standards of cleanliness and food preparation, making it a safe choice for those new to Indian cuisine.
8. Naan House
Naan House has built its reputation on serving honest, home-style Indian cooking. This Indian restaurant in Abu Dhabi city focuses on comfort food that reminds diners of home-cooked meals.
The extensive naan bread selection is a highlight, with options ranging from plain to garlic, cheese, and keema naan. Their curries are prepared with care, avoiding excessive oil while maintaining rich flavors. Popular dishes include chicken tikka masala, vegetable korma, and their signature thalis that offer a complete meal experience.
The casual dining environment makes everyone feel welcome. Portions are generous, and prices are family-friendly. The restaurant caters well to Indian vegetarian restaurant in Abu Dhabi seekers with a dedicated vegetarian menu section. It’s the kind of place where you can enjoy a satisfying meal without breaking the bank, perfect for regular dining rather than special occasions.
9. Gazebo – Traditional Indian Cuisine
Gazebo brings time-tested recipes and consistent quality to the top Indian restaurants in Abu Dhabi list. Known for maintaining traditional cooking methods and authentic spice blends, this restaurant has earned a solid reputation over the years.
The menu features North Indian classics prepared the traditional way. Their karahi dishes, cooked and served in traditional woks, are particularly popular. The tandoori section offers well-marinated meats and vegetables grilled to perfection. Rice dishes and breads complement the curries beautifully.
The restaurant maintains a clean, comfortable environment suitable for families and business lunches. Service is attentive without being intrusive. Prices are moderate, positioned between budget eateries and fine dining options. The consistent quality means you can visit multiple times and expect the same great taste. Both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options are well-represented on the menu.
10. The Terrace on the Corniche – Waterfront Indian Dining
The Terrace on the Corniche rounds out our list of best Indian restaurants Abu Dhabi with a view, offering stunning waterfront dining with the Corniche as your backdrop. This restaurant combines excellent Indian food Abu Dhabi standards with a location that’s hard to beat.
The outdoor terrace seating provides beautiful views of the Arabian Gulf, especially during sunset and evening hours. The menu covers a wide range of Indian favorites, from tandoori starters to rich curries and fragrant biryanis. Seafood preparations are particularly noteworthy given the coastal location.
The atmosphere is relaxed yet refined, perfect for romantic dinners or leisurely meals with friends. The gentle breeze and water views create a memorable dining experience. Prices reflect the premium location but remain reasonable for the quality offered. The restaurant is especially popular during cooler months when outdoor dining is most comfortable. Reservations are recommended for terrace seating, particularly during weekends.
Best Indian Vegetarian Restaurants in Abu Dhabi
Finding quality vegetarian Indian food in Abu Dhabi is easier than you might think. Many of the best Indian vegetarian restaurants in Abu Dhabi offer extensive meat-free menus that showcase the diversity and richness of Indian vegetarian cuisine.
Punjab Grill stands out with its dedicated vegetarian section featuring premium dishes like Dal Punjab Grill, paneer lababdar, and seasonal vegetable preparations. The restaurant understands that vegetarian food deserves the same attention to detail as non-vegetarian dishes, and their chefs deliver accordingly.
Rosewater at Conrad Abu Dhabi offers sophisticated vegetarian options in a fine dining setting. Their dal makhani is slow-cooked to creamy perfection, while their vegetable biryani layers fragrant basmati rice with fresh vegetables and aromatic spices. The Indian vegetarian restaurant in Abu Dhabi experience here comes with stunning views as a bonus.
Naan House provides excellent value for vegetarian diners with home-style preparations. Their vegetable korma, palak paneer, and aloo gobi are comfort food at its best. The vegetarian thali option gives you a complete meal with multiple dishes, rice, bread, and dessert.
Caesar’s Confectionery is a vegetarian haven, especially for those seeking best Indian food in Abu Dhabi at budget-friendly prices. Their chole bhature, pav bhaji, and various chaats are completely vegetarian and capture authentic street food flavors.
Tandoori Corner and Gazebo both maintain extensive vegetarian menus with classics like paneer tikka, mixed vegetable curry, and dal tadka. These restaurants ensure vegetarian diners have just as many choices as their non-vegetarian counterparts.
When dining at these establishments, don’t hesitate to ask about vegan options or dairy-free preparations. Many restaurants are happy to accommodate dietary restrictions and can modify dishes to suit your needs.
Indian Restaurants in Abu Dhabi City – Location Guide
Finding the perfect Indian restaurant in Abu Dhabi city is convenient no matter where you’re staying or working. The city’s Indian dining options are well-distributed across key areas.
The Corniche area is home to The Terrace on the Corniche, offering waterfront dining with easy access from the main corniche road. This location is perfect if you’re already exploring the waterfront or staying in nearby hotels.
Etihad Towers houses Rosewater on the 63rd floor of Conrad Abu Dhabi. This iconic landmark is easily recognizable and accessible from various parts of the city. The towers are located near the Corniche, making it convenient to combine your dining experience with a waterfront stroll.
Downtown Abu Dhabi and central business districts host several options including Punjab Grill, Moksh, and Tandoori Corner. These locations are ideal for business lunches or dinners after work. They’re well-connected by main roads and offer parking facilities.
Residential areas throughout the city feature more casual options like Caesar’s Confectionery, Pappu Paya, and Naan House. These neighborhood favorites are easily accessible for residents and offer convenient takeaway options.
Most Indian restaurants in Abu Dhabi are located along main roads with clear signage. Taxi drivers are familiar with popular restaurants, and ride-hailing apps like Uber and Careem make navigation simple. Many restaurants also offer valet parking or have nearby parking facilities.
For tourists, hotels often have concierge services that can arrange transportation to your chosen restaurant. The compact nature of Abu Dhabi city center means most restaurants are within a 15-20 minute drive from each other.
Where to Find the Best Indian Food in Abu Dhabi
The best Indian food in Abu Dhabi comes in many forms, and knowing where to go for specific experiences will enhance your dining journey.
For Fine Dining Experiences: Punjab Grill and Rosewater lead the pack when you want exceptional food paired with elegant ambiance and premium service. These are the top Indian restaurants in Abu Dhabi for celebrations, business dinners, and special occasions. Expect refined presentations, extensive wine lists, and attentive service that justifies the higher prices.
For Casual Family Dining: Tandoori Corner, Naan House, and Gazebo offer comfortable, relaxed environments where families can enjoy quality Indian food Abu Dhabi style without formal dress codes or premium pricing. These restaurants welcome children and large groups, with menus that appeal to various age groups.
For Authentic Street Food Flavors: Pappu Paya and Caesar’s Confectionery bring the vibrant tastes of Indian street food to Abu Dhabi. These spots are perfect when you’re craving chaats, parathas, or traditional breakfast items that remind you of roadside vendors back in India.
For Restaurants with Stunning Views: Rosewater and The Terrace on the Corniche are your go-to options for best Indian restaurants Abu Dhabi with a view. The combination of excellent food and beautiful scenery creates memorable dining experiences, especially during sunset hours.
For Vegetarian Excellence: While most restaurants offer vegetarian options, Punjab Grill, Rosewater, and Caesar’s Confectionery stand out as the best Indian vegetarian restaurants in Abu Dhabi with extensive meat-free menus that never feel like an afterthought.
For Contemporary Fusion: Moksh Restaurant & Lounge is the place to experience Indian flavors with modern twists. If you enjoy experimental cuisine and creative presentations, this is where traditional meets contemporary.
For Budget-Friendly Options: Caesar’s Confectionery, Pappu Paya, and Naan House prove you don’t need to spend a fortune for delicious Indian food Abu Dhabi has to offer. These restaurants deliver authentic flavors at prices that won’t strain your wallet.
No matter what type of experience you’re seeking, Abu Dhabi’s Indian restaurant scene has something to satisfy every craving and budget.
Is There Any 3 Michelin Star Indian Restaurant?
The Michelin star system is the most prestigious restaurant rating system in the world, with three stars representing “exceptional cuisine worth a special journey.” While Indian cuisine is celebrated globally, three Michelin star Indian restaurants remain extremely rare worldwide.
Currently, there are no three Michelin star Indian restaurants anywhere in the world. In fact, only a handful of Indian restaurants have achieved even one or two Michelin stars, and these are primarily located in London, New York, and a few other major cities. Restaurants like Gymkhana in London and Benares have earned Michelin recognition, but the coveted three-star status has remained elusive for Indian cuisine.
In the UAE, including Abu Dhabi and Dubai, the Michelin Guide only recently launched in 2022 for Dubai. Abu Dhabi does not yet have official Michelin Guide coverage, which means restaurants in the capital cannot receive Michelin stars regardless of their quality.
However, this doesn’t mean Abu Dhabi lacks exceptional Indian dining experiences. Restaurants like Punjab Grill and Rosewater at Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers operate at fine dining standards that rival Michelin-starred establishments elsewhere. These venues showcase refined techniques, premium ingredients, impeccable presentation, and service levels that match international luxury dining standards.
The best Indian restaurants Abu Dhabi offers demonstrate that extraordinary Indian cuisine exists beyond the Michelin system. The lack of stars doesn’t diminish the quality, authenticity, or skill involved in preparing exceptional Indian food. Many chefs at top Abu Dhabi restaurants have trained in Michelin-starred kitchens or worked at acclaimed establishments worldwide.
When seeking the best Indian food in Abu Dhabi, focus on restaurant reputation, chef credentials, ingredient quality, and diner reviews rather than Michelin stars. The city’s competitive dining scene ensures high standards across the board, with restaurants constantly innovating to attract discerning diners.
How Much to Tip in Abu Dhabi Restaurant?
Tipping culture in Abu Dhabi restaurants follows different customs compared to some Western countries, and it’s helpful to know the local expectations when dining at Indian restaurants in Abu Dhabi.
The standard tipping range in Abu Dhabi is 10-15% of the total bill. Most diners tip around 10% for satisfactory service and 15% for exceptional service. This applies whether you’re dining at fine dining establishments like Rosewater or casual spots like Naan House.
Check for service charges first. Many restaurants in Abu Dhabi, especially upscale ones, automatically add a service charge to your bill (usually 10%). If this is already included, you’re not obligated to tip extra, though leaving small additional cash for exceptional service is appreciated.
Cash tips are preferred. While you can add tips to your card payment, servers appreciate cash tips as they receive them directly. Keep small denomination bills handy for this purpose.
For takeaway or delivery orders, tipping is less common but 5-10 AED is a nice gesture for delivery drivers. At casual eateries like Caesar’s Confectionery, tipping is optional but appreciated.
Remember, tipping is never mandatory in the UAE, but it’s a kind way to acknowledge good service at the best Indian restaurants Abu Dhabi has to offer.
Abu Dhabi’s Indian restaurant scene offers something for everyone, from budget-friendly street food to luxurious fine dining with spectacular views. Whether you’re searching for the best Indian restaurants Abu Dhabi has for special celebrations or simply craving comfort food from an Indian vegetarian restaurant in Abu Dhabi, this guide covers your needs.
The ten restaurants featured here represent the diversity of Indian food Abu Dhabi can offer. Punjab Grill and Rosewater provide upscale experiences, while Caesar’s Confectionery and Pappu Paya deliver authentic flavors at accessible prices. The Terrace on the Corniche and Rosewater satisfy those seeking best Indian restaurants Abu Dhabi with a view, and multiple options cater specifically to vegetarian diners.
Remember to make reservations, especially for fine dining restaurants and weekend dinners. Don’t hesitate to ask servers about spice levels, dietary accommodations, or dish recommendations. The best Indian food in Abu Dhabi awaits your discovery.
Try these restaurants, explore the flavors, and find your personal favorites. Each visit offers an opportunity to experience the rich diversity of Indian cuisine without leaving the UAE capital.
FAQ
Where to find authentic Indian cuisine in Abu Dhabi malls?
While standalone restaurants often offer the most authentic experiences, several Abu Dhabi malls house quality Indian dining options. Yas Mall, Marina Mall, and Abu Dhabi Mall feature various Indian restaurants and food court options. For the most authentic Indian food Abu Dhabi experience, visit standalone locations like Punjab Grill, Gazebo, or Kabab Jan which focus solely on traditional preparation methods without compromise.
What are the affordable Indian lunch options in Abu Dhabi?
Caesar’s Confectionery, Pappu Paya, and Naan House offer excellent budget-friendly lunch options with most meals costing between 25-50 AED. Many Indian restaurants in Abu Dhabi also offer lunch specials and thali sets during afternoon hours that provide complete meals at reduced prices. Tandoori Corner frequently has lunch combo deals that include main course, rice or bread, and a drink at affordable rates.
What are the best Indian fine dining experiences in Abu Dhabi?
For upscale Indian dining, Rosewater at Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers and Punjab Grill lead the category. These top Indian restaurants in Abu Dhabi offer refined menus, elegant atmospheres, and impeccable service. Rosewater combines fine dining with breathtaking views from the 63rd floor, while Punjab Grill focuses on premium North Indian cuisine with contemporary presentations. Moksh Restaurant & Lounge offers a modern fine dining approach with fusion elements. Expect to spend 150-300 AED per person at these establishments.
