The capital of UAE never disappoints when it comes to culinary experiences. From fancy world-class dining to street food deliciousness, Abu Dhabi’s food vibe is unmatched. People are under a huge misconception that this city only offers celebrity-chef dining and Michelin-star experiences. However, beneath the gourmet opulence lies a vibrant food scene. It includes the best affordable restaurant in Abu Dhabi., catering to those seeking delicious meals without breaking the bank.
You can taste the authenticity that this area has to offer through its humble food options. Don’t be mistaken that just because you are paying less, the food is any less good. These regional cooking experiences will give you some of the tastiest food you’ve ever had.
- What defines a budget-friendly restaurant?
- Top budget-friendly restaurants in Abu Dhabi
- Michelin-recognised affordable restaurants
- Best cheap eats by cuisine
- Tips for dining out affordably in Abu Dhabi
- Restaurant Comparison Table
- User reviews and community insights
- Popular neighbourhoods for cheap eats
- Key takeaways
- Frequently asked questions
What defines a budget-friendly restaurant?
Anything in the range of AED 20 to AED 50 per person qualifies as an affordable dining option.
These establishments are known for their:
- Generous portions: You will always get your money’s worth
- Local ambience: These no-frills restaurants offer a local experience that reflects the region’s culture.
- Fast service: You don’t have to wait to be seated or for your meal. No amuse-bouche here.
- Popular cuisines: Budget-friendly restaurants offer cuisines that are enjoyed by both locals and expats.
If you want to spot these budget-friendly restaurants, just follow the crowds. Look for places frequented by locals, read online reviews, and check for daily specials or combo deals. This will lead you to the genuine value-for-money eateries.
Best Affordable Restaurants in Abu Dhabi
1- Lebanese Mill Restaurant
- Cuisine: Lebanese, Barbeque
- Highlights: Vegetarian and vegan friendly, Authentic Lebanese, Iconic shawarma, grills
- Atmosphere: Casual, quick and friendly service
- Why locals & expats love it: Lebanese Mill is a favourite among both locals and expatriates. It is known for its traditional and authentic Lebanese flavours and generous portions.
- Approximate price range per meal: Under AED 50
- Location: Al Danah – Zone 1 – Abu Dhabi
- Contact details: +971 2 632 8060
2- Bonna Anne Ethiopian Restaurant
- Cuisine: Ethiopian, East African
- Popular dishes: Injera, Quanta Firfir, Meser be Sega
- Atmosphere: Relaxed Atmosphere, vibrant, and communal—perfect for sharing.
- Approximate price range per meal: AED 70 for two
- Why locals & expats love it: It offers a unique experience for adventurous eaters. It gives you a taste of authentic Ethiopian cuisine in the heart of Abu Dhabi.
- Location: Al Salam St – Al Zahiyah – E16 02 – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
- Contact Details: +971 2 491 2128
3- Salt & Caramel
- Cuisine: Coffee, café, desserts
- Popular Dishes: Cheesecake, hot chocolate, all-day breakfast
- Why locals love it: It has welcoming vibes, great coffee and uses fresh ingredients. It provides a cosy ambience perfect for casual meetups or study sessions.
- Atmosphere: Cosy, modern and welcoming staff
- Approximate price range per meal: AED 50 – 100
- Location: Opposite Etihad Complex, Al Raha, Abu Dhabi
- Contact Details: +971 50 501 5052
4- Evergreen Restaurant
- Cuisine: Indian, pure vegetarian
- Popular dishes: Gujarati thalis, dosas, paneer dishes.
- Why do locals and expats love it: Ideal for families seeking wholesome meals at reasonable prices. It is a vegetarian’s delight, offering a variety of traditional Indian dishes.
- Average price: AED 60 for two people (approximately)
- Location: Zayed The First St – Al Danah – Zone 1 – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
- Contact Details: +971 2 676 7361
5- Mallah Restaurant
- Cuisine: Lebanese, Shawarma, Mezze
- Popular Dishes: Shawarma, mixed grill meals, sandwiches, sweet dumplings and value platters.
- Why locals & expats love it: It is a quick service, casual place that is open until late into the night. Perfect for late-night cravings or quick bites, this restaurant has great value platters that are ideal for sharing.
- Atmosphere: Fast, casual and often busy.
- Average Price: AED 10–40 (per person); many set meals / mixed-grill deals around AED 40 for two.
- Location: Multiple branches across Abu Dhabi (Airport Road / Al Mushrif and others).
- Contact details: Branch numbers vary.
6- Sahar Restaurant
- Cuisine: Pakistani, Indian (home-style Pakistani specialities).
- Popular Dishes: Biryani, kebabs, nihari and value combo meals; strong breakfast options like halwa puri on weekends
- Atmosphere: Simple interiors, fast service — classic canteen / family-style feel.
- Why locals & expats love it: Traditional, comforting flavours at budget prices and quick service for lunch/dinner.
- Approximate price range per meal: AED 25–35 per person.
- Location: Behind Wear Mart, Al Falah Street, Madinat Zayed Area, Abu Dhabi
- Contact Details: +971 2 634 3110
7- Bhavna Restaurant
- Cuisine: Indian vegetarian, family-style
- Popular Dishes: Thalis, dosa, puri bhaji
- Atmosphere: Spacious and unpretentious, with generous portions per plate.
- Why locals & expats love it: It is great for large groups on a budget: Spacious seating and generous portions make it ideal for gatherings.
- Approximate price range per meal: AED 30–40 (per person)
- Location: Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Street – Hamdan Bin Mohammed St – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
- Contact Details: +971 2 677 4288
8- Automatic Restaurant & Grill
- Cuisine: Arabic, Middle Eastern
- Popular dishes: Shawarma, kebabs, hearty mezze
- Atmosphere: Quick service, dine-in or takeaway. It caters to both dine-in and takeaway preferences.
- Why locals & expats love it: Consistent shawarma and quick, low-cost snacks; extremely convenient multiple outlets (including malls and food courts).
- Approximate price range per meal: AED 10–40 (per person)
- Location: Various locations across Abu Dhabi
9- Urban Bites
- Cuisine: International café, healthy eats
- Popular for: Affordable sandwiches, salads, and daily specials
- Why locals & expats love it: It offers wholesome meals that won’t break the bank. Healthy, quick options that are easy to grab for work or study breaks.
- Atmosphere: Trendy, relaxed ambience. It is a perfect spot for casual dining or catching up with friends.
- Approximate price range per meal: AED 25–60 (per person)
- Location: Multiple locations across Abu Dhabi (Al Khalidiyah / Al Karamah / Shining Tower / Madinat Zayed)
10- Al Dhafra Restaurant
- Cuisine: Emirati, Arabic, Seafood
- Popular dishes: Seafood platters, mixed grills, buffets
- History: Operating since 1993, with a rich local ambience
- Why do locals and expats love it: It provides an authentic Emirati experience on a budget.
- Atmosphere: This place is worth the money and is popular for its kind staff, timely service, good quality and fresh food.
- Average price: AED 135 for two people (approx.)
- Location: Heritage Park, Corniche St – Al Zahiyah – E12 – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
- Contact Details: +971 2 673 2200
If you are a seafood lover and head out of Abu Dhabi, check out the top seafood restaurants in Ras Al Khaimah.
Michelin-recognised affordable restaurants
Abu Dhabi’s culinary scene has garnered international acclaim, with several budget-friendly restaurants earning recognition in the Michelin Guide. These establishments offer exceptional quality at affordable prices:
Meylas: An Emirati restaurant offering traditional dishes in a warm, welcoming setting.
Al Mrzab: Known for its authentic Emirati flavours and generous portions.
Kopitiam by Chandy’s: A Malaysian eatery serving street food favourites like Nasi Lemak and Char Kway Teow.
Yadoo’s House: Offers a fusion of Middle Eastern and Asian cuisines, providing a unique dining experience.
Al Farah: Specialises in Middle Eastern dishes, offering a variety of options at budget-friendly prices.
Best cheap eats by cuisine
Indian and Pakistani
If you are a food lover, head to your neighbourhood thali joints and tajine-style counters to get the most flavour for your dirham. Sahar and Bhavna serve hearty, comforting plates that never try to be fancy — and that is their strength.
A few dishes that are big on taste and small on the pocket:
- Biryani: This fragrant and filling rice is perfect for sharing.
- Kebab platters: They are smoky, well-spiced, and great with flatbread.
- Thalis: Set meals that deliver variety and value.
- Dosa: Crisp, savoury, and cheap when you want a light feast. This is an Indian crepe done multiple ways.
Middle Eastern & Emirati
When in Rome, be Roman. When in Abu Dhabi, stick to the local cuisine for a burst of flavour. For quick, satisfying Middle Eastern food, seek out the small grill houses and shawarma counters. Lebanese Mill, Mallah, and Automatic offer fast service, generous portions, and authentic flavour at low cost. For a true local touch, visit Al Dhafra for Emirati seafood and traditional plates that feel like a culinary story on your table.
Asian (Filipino, Chinese, Thai)
Abu Dhabi’s Asian scene offers some great food deals. You will find plenty of small family-run places and food-court stalls serving delicious noodle bowls, fried rice, and bento boxes within your budget. For a ‘justifiable’ splurge, look for Korean or seafood BBQ deals that give excellent value for a shared feast.
Healthy & vegetarian options
Healthy eating doesn’t need to be pricey. Vegetarian thalis, KETO options, grain bowls, and café breakfast specials are widely available and filling. With cafes sprouting at every nook and cranny, getting hold of your breakfast smoothie bowl at an affordable price will never be a challenge. The city has lots of places where you can eat fresh, balanced meals without paying a premium.
Tips for dining out affordably in Abu Dhabi
Don’t fall for tourist traps; instead, seek out inexpensive eateries and local food options. Abu Dhabi has loyalty programs, happy hours, lunch deals, etc. It has it all – you just have to know where to look.
- Time your visit: Lunch menus and weekday specials are where you’ll find the best deals.
- Share plates: A thali or platter gives you a lot of options. Splitting it with a friend or family member halves the cost, doubles the flavours.
- Use apps: You can find some exclusive offers and daily discounts listed on aggregator and voucher platforms.
- Ask the locals: Baristas, shopkeepers, and taxi drivers often point to the best-value spots.
- Respect the culture: Greet your server and the staff politely. A warm ‘As-salaam-alaykum’ goes a long way. Dining in these Emirates is often communal and friendly, so extend that respect.
Restaurant Comparison Table
| Name | Cuisine | Meal Price Range (AED) | Popular Dishes | Atmosphere | Location |
| Lebanese Mill Restaurant | Lebanese, Barbeque | Under 50 | Shawarma, grilled meats | Casual, quick and friendly | Al Danah – Zone 1 – Abu Dhabi |
| Bonna Anne Ethiopian Restaurant | Ethiopian, East African | ~70 for two | Injera, Quanta Firfir, Meser be Sega | Communal | Al Salam St – Al Zahiyah – E16 02 – Abu Dhabi |
| Salt & Caramel | Coffee, Café, Desserts | 50–100 | Cheesecake, hot chocolate, all-day breakfast | Cosy and modern | Opposite Etihad Complex, Al Raha, Abu Dhabi |
| Evergreen Restaurant | Indian, Pure Vegetarian | ~60 for two | Gujarati thalis, dosas, paneer dishes | Simple | Zayed The First St – Al Danah – Zone 1 – Abu Dhabi |
| Al Dhafra Restaurant | Emirati, Arabic, Seafood | ~135 for two | Seafood platters, mixed grills, buffets | Local | Heritage Park, Corniche St – Al Zahiyah – E12 – Abu Dhabi |
| Mallah Restaurant | Lebanese, Shawarma, Mezze | 10–40 per person | Shawarma, mixed grill meals, sandwiches, and sweet dumplings | Fast, casual, often busy | Multiple branches (Airport Road, Al Mushrif, others) |
| Sahar Restaurant | Pakistani, Indian | 25–35 per person | Biryani, kebabs, nihari, halwa puri | Simple, fast service, family-style | Behind Wear Mart, Al Falah Street, Madinat Zayed Area, Abu Dhabi |
| Bhavna Restaurant | Indian Vegetarian | 30-40 per person | Thalis, dosa, puri bhaji | Family Style | Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Street – Abu Dhabi |
| Automatic Grill | Arabic, Middle Eastern | 10–40 per person | Shawarma, Mezze | Casual | Multiple locations |
| Urban Bites | International Café, Healthy Eats | 25–60 per person | Sandwiches, salads, daily specials | Trendy/ Relaxed | Multiple locations |
User reviews and community insights
User reviews and Abu Dhabi community insights can be truly helpful for you.
Across review platforms and food blogs, the same themes keep appearing – value, authenticity, and generous portions. TripAdvisor lists for “cheap eats” and budget restaurants consistently show Lebanese Mill, Salt & Caramel, Mallah and Bonna Anne among top picks — diners highlight flavour and price as key reasons to return.
Reddit threads and local forums echo those picks and add a practical lens: locals point newcomers toward old-school family eateries and street-style counters for the best value. Community posts often recommend trying combo platters or shared thalis to stretch your dirham further.
Food editors and blogs amplify the same signals: affordable spots that keep appearing across lists are praised for consistent food quality, friendly service, and clean, no-frills spaces. These outlets also flag specific neighbourhoods where budget dining is concentrated.
Key praises from diners and critics
- Quality over frills: Reviewers often note that simple decor belies strong flavours and fresh ingredients.
- Authenticity: Many budget restaurants offer regional home-style cooking that reviewers call “true to the cuisine.”
- Price: Affordability is the top recurring comment. Diners regularly mention meals under AED 50 as a draw.
- Cleanliness and service: Popular, affordable spots tend to have steady footfall and positive remarks about hygiene and quick service. Michelin-listed affordable venues also receive praise for immaculate kitchens and tidy service.
Popular neighbourhoods for cheap eats
- Al Zahiyah (Tourist Club Area): A compact food hub with long-standing budget favourites.
- Madinat Zayed: Wide choice of family-style Indian and casual cafés that offer good value.
- Corniche Road and Heritage Park area: Several seafood and Emirati options provide seaside value, including affordable buffets and platters.
Key takeaways
Abu Dhabi offers a broad range of affordable restaurants across cuisines ranging from shawarma and mezze to Indian thalis and Ethiopian injera. Budget diners won’t have to compromise on variety, taste or portion size.
Middle Eastern, Indian/Pakistani, and South Asian family-style places often deliver the most food for the least money. Al Zahiyah, Madinat Zayed and the Corniche are reliable neighbourhoods for cheap eats. To maximise value, order shared platters or thalis, look for lunch specials, and use aggregator apps or local deal platforms for discounts.
Frequently asked questions
Middle Eastern (shawarma, mezze), Indian/Pakistani (thalis, biryani), and simple Asian or African eateries often offer the lowest per-person prices.
Yes. There are exclusive vegetarian and vegan restaurants offering great food at low cost.
Al Zahiyah, Madinat Zayed and the Corniche/Heritage Park area are frequently recommended by diners and food guides. Each neighbourhood has clusters of affordable options that suit different tastes.
Expect roughly AED 20–50 per person at many budget spots. Prices vary by cuisine and whether you order shared platters or mains.
Yes. A few local and Michelin-listed affordable venues serve Emirati dishes (for example, Meylas and Al Mrzab), and traditional seafood restaurants such as Al Dhafra are known for offering local flavours at reasonable prices.
