7 affordable restaurants to eat well in Abu Dhabi

Finding affordable places to eat in Abu Dhabi may seem like a daunting task, especially in a city known for its luxurious lifestyle and dining options. However, the good news is that it is entirely possible to indulge in delicious meals without breaking the bank. In this guide, we’ll share our top recommendations for 7 restaurants where you can eat well and cheap in Abu Dhabi. Get ready for a culinary adventure that won't empty your wallet!

🌟 If you're planning your trip, don’t miss out on the must-see attractions in Abu Dhabi.

From traditional dishes to international cuisines and quality fast food, Abu Dhabi offers a variety of options for every palate. Here are our top picks for budget-friendly dining in the city, perfect for anyone eager to experience the gastronomy of the United Arab Emirates:

* While we strive to keep our recommendations current, some places may change. If you find any of these restaurants closed or prices different from what we mention, please let us know so we can update our guide. Thank you! 🙂

Delicious Lebanese cuisine at Bait El Khetyar

Bait El Khetyar is a Lebanese restaurant that stands out as one of the best places for affordable dining in Abu Dhabi. For around 10-12€, you can enjoy a substantial meal featuring a diverse menu that includes mezze such as falafel, hummus, mutabal, and tabbouleh, in addition to hearty main dishes like shawarma and kebab.

A delightful brunch at Salt & Caramel

If you're looking for a place to have a hearty breakfast or an all-day brunch, look no further than Salt & Caramel. Known for its inviting atmosphere, the restaurant offers delicious dishes like eggs benedict (with turkey ham or salmon) for about 55-65 AED (approximately 15€). For a more budget-friendly option, you can savor sandwiches priced under 10€ alongside a selection of pastries and cakes.

Located in a residential area known as Marina de Al Bandar, it’s a bit off the beaten path but well worth the visit.

Experience Ethiopian flavors at Bonna Anne Ethiopian Restaurant

Discover the rich culinary traditions of Ethiopia at Bonna Anne Ethiopian Restaurant. Here, you can enjoy a unique dining experience with dishes centered around injera, a traditional pancake-like bread served with various stews (both meat and vegetarian). A meal here averages around 50 AED (12€), providing great value for a delightful cultural experience.

Indonesian delights at Bandung Restaurant

Travel to Indonesia without leaving Abu Dhabi at Bandung Restaurant, where you can feast on authentic Indonesian dishes at surprisingly low prices. Popular items include Indonesian-style chicken for 30 AED (7.5€), mee goreng with chicken for 25 AED, and satay (chicken skewers) for 20 AED. This restaurant is a favorite for those seeking to enjoy a meal for under 10€.

Fast food with quality at Zaatar w Zeit

Zaatar w Zeit is a popular fast-food franchise known for providing quality meals. With multiple locations, including one in the Abu Dhabi Mall, it's an excellent place for a quick bite. We recommend trying a variety of sharing starters along with a shawarma—options range from the classic chicken to creative flavors like kefta or sweet potato. Expect to spend less than 10€ on your meal.

Don't forget to bring your Revolut card or N26 card to avoid hefty fees when paying in foreign currency.

Unlimited vegetarian options at Evergreen Restaurant Veg

Evergreen Restaurant Veg is perhaps one of the most affordable eateries in Abu Dhabi, specializing in Indian vegetarian cuisine. Here, you can indulge in an unlimited thali for less than 20 AED (5€). Enjoy a variety of dishes, but remember to be mindful and avoid waste!

Asian-inspired buns at Dragon Bao Bao

For a casual yet rewarding dining experience, visit Dragon Bao Bao to savor delicious baos—steamed buns filled with various ingredients, reminiscent of dumplings. A plate of 10 pieces will set you back around 7€, making it a fantastic option for a budget-friendly meal. The extensive menu offers plenty of choices, but the signature dish is definitely a must-try.

Find your way with our Abu Dhabi restaurant map

To make your dining experience even easier, we've included a map featuring the locations of our recommended restaurants in Abu Dhabi:

We hope this guide helps you navigate the culinary scene during your visit to Abu Dhabi. As you’ve seen, enjoying delicious food at reasonable prices in one of the world’s most expensive cities is entirely possible! Do you know of any other restaurants to eat well and affordably in Abu Dhabi? We’d love to hear your recommendations for our list.

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