Abu Dhabi
The capital's own old quarter is smaller and quieter than Dubai's, built around the fort at its center rather than a strip of towers.
Qasr Al Hosn, the city's oldest structure, anchors what's left of old Abu Dhabi, with the corniche running the length of the waterfront past it. Away from the fort and the museums, the food is mostly inland, in neighbourhood spots that don't bother with a view.
Logged in Abu Dhabi
Al Dhafra Restaurant
Abu Dhabi, United Arab EmiratesAn old-school seafood house on the Abu Dhabi corniche, piling grilled catch and rice onto tables for local families.
Al Mrzab Traditional Restaurant
Abu Dhabi, United Arab EmiratesA traditional Emirati restaurant behind the National Theatre serving simple Bedouin-style home cooking.
Erth Restaurant
Abu Dhabi, United Arab EmiratesA contemporary Emirati restaurant built into a restored building inside Qasr Al Hosn's historic walls.
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Al Dhafra Restaurant
Abu Dhabi, United Arab EmiratesAn old-school seafood house on the Abu Dhabi corniche, piling grilled catch and rice onto tables for local families.
Al Fanar Restaurant & Cafe
Al Ain, United Arab EmiratesA traditional Emirati café near Souq Al Zafarana serving breakfast, Arabic coffee, and simple local dishes all morning.
Al Mrzab Traditional Restaurant
Abu Dhabi, United Arab EmiratesA traditional Emirati restaurant behind the National Theatre serving simple Bedouin-style home cooking.
Erth Restaurant
Abu Dhabi, United Arab EmiratesA contemporary Emirati restaurant built into a restored building inside Qasr Al Hosn's historic walls.
Al Ain
The UAE's inland oasis city, greener and slower than the coast, built around date palm groves and old forts.