Top Indian Restaurants in Abu Dhabi: Fine Dining, Budget & Michelin-Starred Picks

Abu Dhabi tourism is as much about its world-class dining as its iconic attractions, and the city boasts a vibrant culinary scene filled with global flavours.  The best Indian restaurants in Abu Dhabi blend authentic flavours from across India with luxurious settings and innovative twists. From aromatic biryanis and rich curries to freshly baked naans and innovative fusion dishes, the top restaurants in Abu Dhabi offer an exceptional culinary journey that caters to every palate. This guide navigates you through the finest restaurants, from the Michelin-starred ones in Abu Dhabi to budget-friendly spots, where authentic flavours, warm hospitality, and unforgettable dining experiences come together.

MICHELIN-Selected Indian Fine Dining Restaurants in Abu Dhabi

Martabaan by Hemant Oberoi – Michelin-Starred Indian Restaurant at Emirates Palace

Elegant dining hall of Martabaan by Hemant Oberoi, one of the finest Indian restaurants in Abu Dhabi, featuring luxurious interiors, comfortable seating, and a premium buffet setup.

The Martabaan operates within the Emirates Palace and ranks among the best Michelin-starred indian restaurants in Abu Dhabi. The dining room overlooks the Arabian Gulf, its intimate space belying the hotel’s grandeur with carefully curated decor and gold-rimmed china.

The restaurant’s menu balances traditional flavours with modern techniques. The menus begin around Rs. 9,800 per person, with extensive à la carte options available.

• Location: Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, West Corniche, Abu Dhabi
• What to try: Tandoori avocado, butter chicken, dal martabaan, lobster moilee
• Average price for two: Rs. 9,800+ approx.

Punjab Grill – Luxury North Indian Dining at Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi

Punjab Grill is listed among the best north indian restaurants in Abu Dhabi. The restaurant’s waterside setting, with azure canals and elegant structures, creates a romantic ambience.

The restaurant delivers contemporary North Indian dining against a backdrop of Renaissance-inspired architecture. Meals for two average Rs. 7,500, positioning Punjab Grill as accessible luxury for special occasions.

• Location: The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal
• What to try: Murgh makhani, lamb chops, dal Punjab Grill, kulcha
• Average price for two: Rs. 7,500 approx.

Moksh – Michelin-Starred Modern Indian Cuisine in Abu Dhabi

Elegant dining area at Moksh, one of the leading Michelin-starred Indian restaurants in Abu Dhabi, featuring contemporary interiors and a sophisticated fine-dining ambience.

Moksh is characterised by vibrant colours and playful decor that mirror its innovative approach to Indian street food and regional cuisine. This Michelin-starred indian restaurant in Abu Dhabi features theatrical presentations designed for social media enthusiasts. 

The restaurant’s menu serves 24-carat gold-dusted tikka chicken and activated charcoal samosa. Average spending per couple reaches Rs. 10,000, thereby reflecting the premium positioning and luxury hotel setting.

• Location: Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers, Corniche West
• What to try: 24K gold tikka chicken, charcoal samosa, butter chicken
• Average price for two: Rs. 10,000 approx.

Award-Winning Contemporary Indian Restaurants in Abu Dhabi

Rangoli – Fine Dining Indian Restaurant Serving North & South Indian Cuisine

Traditional Indian thali and biryani served at Rangoli, showcasing authentic North and South Indian cuisine in a fine-dining setting.

Rangoli is a fine dining indian restaurant in Abu Dhabi that serves both North and South Indian cuisine. The restaurant’s name references traditional floor art passed through generations, a cultural touchstone reflected in the thoughtful design.

Spicy lamb chops and wagyu ribs showcase the kitchen’s mastery, while signature biryanis arrive sealed in bread, creating anticipation as diners crack open aromatic seals. Meals for two average Rs. 8,500, which positions Rangoli as fine dining with reasonable pricing.

• Location: Yas Island Rotana, Yas Island
• What to try: Spicy lamb chops, wagyu ribs, signature dum biryani
• Average price for two: Rs. 8,500 approx.

MYNT – Budget-Friendly Indian Restaurant in Abu Dhabi with Modern Flavours

MYNT offers some of the best indian food in Abu Dhabi. The restaurant redefines traditional Indian cuisine through 21st-century innovation while maintaining authentic flavour profiles.

The menu features a special vegetarian platter, while Kolhapuri chicken and Goan fish curry demonstrate regional authenticity. Meals typically cost around Rs. 2,300 for two people, positioning as a budget-friendly option.

• Location: Al Nahyan, Abu Dhabi
• What to try: Vegetarian platter, Kolhapuri chicken, Goan fish curry
• Average price for two: Rs. 2,300 approx.

Zeera by Buddha Bar – Modern Indian Restaurant on Yas Bay Waterfront

Signature butter chicken, naan, and fragrant basmati rice served at Zeera by Buddha Bar

If you’re looking for a high-energy, upscale Indian dining experience with cocktails, live music, and Yas Island’s waterfront setting, Zeera by Buddha Bar is the place for you. Part of the renowned Buddha-Bar brand, this chic restaurant reimagines Indian cuisine with global techniques and premium presentation.

Expect elevated classics like butter chicken, mutton biryani, and Kerala-style prawns, alongside creative mocktails and cocktails. For a value-friendly experience, the weekday “Curry in Hurry” business lunch (Monday–Friday, 1 PM–4 PM) offers a two-course meal with a beverage, coffee, or tea for AED 99 (2544). It’s also an excellent dining stop for travellers exploring the island with Yas Island tour packages. 

• Location: Yas Bay Waterfront, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
• What to try: Butter chicken, mutton biryani, Thalasseri fish biryani, pepper mutton, and the Kerala Edition tasting menu for a regional South Indian experience
• Average price for two: Rs 5,500–7,000 approx.

Celebrity Chef Destinations

Namak – Michelin-Starred Indian Restaurant by Celebrity Chefs

Namak celebrates India’s vibrant culinary spirit through bold flavours and theatrical presentations. 

This Michelin-starred indian restaurant in Abu Dhabi specialises in lamb specialities, while innovative dishes such as katafi-wrapped tiger prawn with pickled chilli cream and tobiko caviar demonstrate global influences. Meals for two average ₹6,200, with vibrant sharing dishes ideal for groups exploring diverse flavours after enjoying the top activities in Abu Dhabi. 

• Location: Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi, Al Muroor Road
• What to try: Katafi-wrapped tiger prawn, lamb specialities, butter chicken
• Average price for two: Rs. 6,200 approx.

Pincode by Kunal Kapoor – Regional Indian Cuisine at Al Maryah Island

Elegant outdoor dining area at Pincode by Kunal Kapoor, one of the popular Indian restaurants in Abu Dhabi

Pincode by Kunal Kapoor is located in The Galleria at Al Maryah Island, making it a convenient dining stop while exploring some of the places to visit in Abu Dhabi. The restaurant explores regional Indian flavours with authentic twists that honour traditional preparation methods while embracing contemporary presentation.

The menu showcases regional specialities alongside popular dishes, encouraging diners to explore India’s diverse culinary landscape from Kathiyawadi to Bengali preparations. The restaurant prices average around Rs. 5,000 for two people.

• Location: The Galleria, Al Maryah Island
• What to try: Regional Indian thalis, Kathiyawadi specialities, Bengali dishes, biryani
• Average price for two: Rs. 5,000 approx.

Asha’s – Celebrity Chef Indian Restaurant at Yas Mall & Al Maryah Island

Asha’s is an Indian fine-dining restaurant chain founded by legendary Indian playback singer Asha Bhosle, first established in Dubai in 2002. In 2017, Asha Bhosle personally inaugurated an outlet at Yas Mall, Abu Dhabi, continuing the brand’s expansion in the Gulf region. Indian travellers who want a connection to home through Bollywood nostalgia, familiar North Indian flavours, and a polished fine-dining setting inside one of the biggest malls in Abu Dhabi.

Inspired by Asha Bhosle’s culinary journey, Asha’s blends authentic North-West Frontier cuisine with modern influences. Signature dishes include dal makhani, murgh malai kebabs, and Kerala chilli garlic prawns, alongside a wide range of vegetarian options. With locations at Yas Mall and Al Maryah Island, it’s a convenient choice for travellers exploring Yas Island or transiting through Abu Dhabi Airport.

• Location: Yas Mall, Yas Island; The Galleria, Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi
• What to try: Dal makhani, murgh malai kebabs, Kerala chilli garlic prawns, lamb kesar biryani, strawberry and coconut lassi
•  Average price for two: Rs. 4,500–6,000 approx.

Best Vegetarian Indian Restaurants in Abu Dhabi

Gala – Abu Dhabi’s First Fine-Dining Vegetarian Indian Restaurant

Gala is the first vegetarian Indian restaurant in Abu Dhabi. The restaurant reimagines plant-based cuisine with sophisticated flair across two elegantly designed floors. 

The restaurant’s dishes incorporate influences from Thai, Chinese, Korean and Italian cuisines, thereby creating a global vegetarian experience rooted in Indian techniques. Meals typically cost Rs. 2,700 for two, making it an accessible fine-dining vegetarian option.

• Location: Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi
• What to try: Avocado dahi puri, truffle kulcha, paneer makhani, signature desserts
• Average price for two: Rs. 2,700 approx.

Rasoi Ghar – Authentic Gujarati & Rajasthani Vegetarian Thali Restaurant

Traditional Gujarati thali with pav, curry, farsan, and sev served at Rasoi Ghar

Rasoi Ghar delivers authentic Gujarati, Kathiyawadi, and Rajasthani vegetarian cuisine in a family-friendly environment. The restaurant specialises in traditional thalis that provide a comprehensive sampling of regional flavours, served on traditional platters.

The menu focuses on home-style cooking with recipes passed down through generations. Average spending per person remains around Rs. 800, making it one of the most budget-friendly Indian restaurants in Abu Dhabi. 

• Location: Dalma Mall, Mussafah
• What to try: Unlimited Gujarati & Rajasthani thali, dal baati churma, farsan
• Average price for two: Rs. 1,600 approx.

Chatore – Pure Veg Indian Chaat & Jain-Friendly Restaurant in Abu Dhabi

If you’re craving the flavours of Indian streets while in Abu Dhabi, Chatore Restaurant is one of the most reliable places to visit. The menu features popular street-food favourites such as papdi chaat, dahi puri, cheese vada pav, samosas, stuffed parathas, and pav bhaji, all prepared with flavours that closely resemble what you’d find in cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Ahmedabad.

One of Chatore’s biggest advantages is its dedicated Jain-friendly menu, making it a convenient choice for travellers who follow Jain dietary practices. The restaurant serves a wide variety of vegetarian dishes without compromising on taste, making it equally suitable for families and groups with different dietary preferences. 

• Location: Behind ADCB Head Office, Basrah Street, Al Danah (Najda), Abu Dhabi | Also on Electra Street, Abu Dhabi
•  What to try: Papdi chaat, cheese vada pav, pav bhaji, samosa, falooda, lassi, ice gola
• Average price for two: Rs. 700–900 approx. (AED 44 approx.)

Iconic & Long-Standing Indian Restaurants in Abu Dhabi

India Palace – Classic Indian Restaurant in Abu Dhabi with Regal Ambience

Creamy butter chicken garnished with butter and cream at India Palace

India Palace has maintained its position as an iconic Abu Dhabi institution. The restaurant combines the opulent, regal decor of Mughal palaces at surprisingly reasonable prices, which creates an accessible luxury experience.

Signature dishes include lamb raan, butter chicken, dal makhani and chicken dum biryani. Average spending reaches approximately Rs. 3,200 for two, representing exceptional value for quality and portion sizes that satisfy even the heartiest appetites.

• Location: Multiple locations across Abu Dhabi
• What to try: Lamb raan, butter chicken, dal makhani, chicken dum biryani
• Average price for two: Rs. 3,200 approx.

Moti Mahal – Affordable Indian Restaurant Famous for Butter Chicken

One of the longest-established Indian restaurants, Moti Mahal, has consistently delivered excellent food at affordable prices. 

The butter chicken, dal makhani and vegetable biryani offer exceptional value combined with reliable quality. A complete meal including butter chicken, dal makhani, lamb korma, vegetable biryani, plain paratha and potato paratha costs approximately Rs. 3,100.

• Location: Hamdan Street and other branches across Abu Dhabi
• What to try: Butter chicken, dal makhani, lamb korma, vegetable biryani
• Average price for two: Rs. 3,100 approx.

Fresh Palace Kanjikada Restaurant – Authentic Kerala Cuisine for South Indian Travellers

If you’re craving South Indian food and authentic Kerala home cooking, Fresh Palace is the place for you. It is a popular chain of South Indian restaurants in Abu Dhabi, specialising in authentic Kerala cuisine. This restaurant is especially famous for its kanji (Kerala rice porridge), served with classic accompaniments like chammanthi, pickles, and fish fry, a comforting dish that’s rarely available outside Kerala. 

The menu also features regional favourites such as Pazham Choru, Chicken 65 Biryani, chicken fry with ghee rice, fresh seafood, and the signature Kudam Pulli Choru, made with Kerala matta rice and tangy fish curry. Whether you’re a Malayali craving familiar flavours or an Indian traveller eager to explore authentic Kerala cuisine beyond dosa and idli, Fresh Palace Kanjikada offers a satisfying and budget-friendly dining experience.

• Location: Al Falah Street, Al Danah, Abu Dhabi (multiple branches across the city)
•  What to try: Beef kanji, grilled fish, fish pollichathu, kappa beef, Kudam Pulli Choru, ghee rice with chicken fry, Chicken 65 Biryani
•  Average price for two: Rs. 1,500–2,000 approx. (AED 80 approx.)

Conclusion – Best Indian Restaurants in Abu Dhabi for Every Budget & Taste

The best Indian restaurants in Abu Dhabi reflect the capital’s multicultural fabric, where authentic traditions flourish alongside innovative reinterpretations. From the Michelin-starred indian restaurants to budget-friendly treasures, the diversity of options ensures every craving and budget finds satisfaction. Explore Pickyourtrail’s customised Abu Dhabi tour packages that include dining experiences, cultural attractions, and personalised itineraries designed for food enthusiasts.

Frequently Asked Questions About Indian Restaurants in Abu Dhabi

What is the average cost of dining at Indian restaurants in Abu Dhabi?

Indian restaurant prices in Abu Dhabi vary significantly based on location and positioning. Budget-friendly options offer meals from Rs. 700-900 per person, while mid-range restaurants average Rs. 1,500-3,000 for two people. Fine dining establishments range from Rs. 7,500-10,000 per couple.

Are there good vegetarian Indian restaurants in Abu Dhabi?

Abu Dhabi offers excellent vegetarian Indian dining options. Gala, Rasoi Ghar, Golden Spoon and Sangeetha offer vegetarian options in Abu Dhabi.

Which Indian restaurants in Abu Dhabi have MICHELIN recognition?

Martabaan by Hemant Oberoi at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Punjab Grill at The Ritz-Carlton Grand Canal, Moksh at Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers and Namak at Dusit Thani. 

What are the best budget Indian restaurants in Abu Dhabi?

KuraKura near ADNEC stands out as one of Abu Dhabi’s best cheap Indian restaurants, with most mains costing under Rs. 800 and exceptional quality. Rasoi Ghar offers traditional vegetarian thalis starting from Rs. 800, providing extraordinary value in Yas Mall. Golden Spoon delivers traditional vegetarian dishes at approximately Rs. 1,100 per person, while Moti Mahal provides complete meals for around Rs. 3,100 for two people. Via Delhi serves authentic Delhi street food with meals for two averaging Rs. 2,600.

Do Indian restaurants in Abu Dhabi serve halal food?

Yes, the vast majority of Indian restaurants in Abu Dhabi serve halal food, as this is standard practice throughout the UAE. The combination of halal certification and authentic Indian flavours makes Abu Dhabi’s Indian restaurant scene accessible and appealing to all diners regardless of dietary requirements.

Which Indian restaurants in Abu Dhabi offer delivery services?

Most Indian restaurants in Abu Dhabi provide delivery services through various platforms and their own websites. The widespread availability of delivery options allows residents to enjoy authentic Indian cuisine at home, from budget-friendly meals to fine dining experiences, without compromising on quality, portion sizes, or variety of offerings available.

What are the must-try signature dishes at Indian restaurants in Abu Dhabi?

At Martabaan, the varqui crab and masala chai creme brulee. Punjab Grill’s salmon tikka and watermelon sprout chaat showcase creativity. Moksh’s bright blue chaat and 24-carat gold-dusted tikka chicken provide theatrical experiences. Rangoli’s lamb chops and gulab jamun brioche pudding blend tradition with innovation. MYNT’s gunpowder murgh and Goan fish curry represent regional authenticity. India Palace’s lamb raan and tandoor-grilled king prawns demonstrate classic preparations. Namak’s dum ki nalli lamb biryani exemplifies slow-cooked perfection. KuraKura’s signature biryani with citrus sauce offers exceptional value. 

Are reservations required at Indian restaurants in Abu Dhabi?

Fine dining establishments like Martabaan, Punjab Grill, Moksh and Rangoli require advance reservations. Popular mid-range restaurants such as MYNT, Indigo, and Namak suggest booking ahead to ensure seating during peak hours. Small venues like KuraKura with limited tables may require waiting without reservations during busy periods.