As we welcome the 2025 selection of the MICHELIN Guide Abu Dhabi, we highlight the consistency and dedication in the city’s culinary scene. Emirati restaurant Erth enters its second year with a one MICHELIN star distinction and continues to cement itself as the first-ever Emirati restaurant in history to receive the accolade.
Under the leadership of chef Debi Prasad Rath, the restaurant showcases a variety of innovative dishes that have a strong underlining of Emirati traditions, where its location compliments its story. Located in Qasr al-Hosn, the former palace of the Sheikh, the restaurant clearly has an affinity in paying tribute to local culture and history. The historical landmark, built in 1761, has since been transformed into a museum housing the artefacts highlighting the country's heritage.
Given this historic milestone in the world of gastronomy, we get an inside look into an inspector’s experience at Erth, from their arrival to some helpful tips to keep in mind when visiting the restaurant.
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The arrival
The location in Abu Dhabi’s downtown area is quite something! If you arrive by taxi, get them to drop you by the entrance to the underground parking lot, which is located behind the restaurant. From there, follow the signs to the restaurants as its hidden and well worth a stroll around the large pool of water the restaurant overlooks. The place is aptly located within the Al Hosn cultural area and in the near distance, is the striking and contrasting historical Qasr Al Hosn palace and fort.The building itself is a great example of stunning modern architectural design. Brutalist in style, the building is enhanced by its reflection in a large shallow water pool and surrounded by palm trees, fitting into its urban environment with ease. A stone block sign outside the door confirms you’re at the right place and Erth translates as ‘legacy’. There’s a great sense of anticipation as you approach the building.
You’ll probably find the door is opened by one of the team before you get to it, the welcome is warm and discreet, no great fanfare but genuine Emirati, warmth and hospitality. Seated straight at the table, you’ll be offered water before the menu is presented on an iPad.
The place
The interior is as impressive as the exterior. Floor to ceiling windows allow light to flood in, polished concrete blends with bespoke Emirati crafted furnishings and modern majlis, which are curtained off with pale cotton curtains. Huge stone blocks carved from the landscape of Jebel Hafeet feature between shelves of spot-lit vases. Ceramic plates and vases are from a studio on Saadiyat Island.There’s a great sense of intimacy and the atmosphere exudes a sense of calmness. The background music is appropriate, discreet and with an Emirati flavour. Table lamps cast an intimate glow.
The meal
The waiters are keen to recommend – do take their advice. The appetisers, starters, mains and desserts are worth sharing. The modern dishes are influenced firmly by Emirati tradition, with ingredients sourced from approximately 90 farms in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, Hatta and all around the Emirates.Image credit: Erth Restaurant
You’re not kept waiting long for the food to arrive; Mini taquito’s of Emirati shrimps come with green curry paste, coconut milk and black garlic – super-subtle spicing allows the sweet shrimp to shine through and the crisp texture of the taco shell is a super contrast.
Chickpea purée with regag chips (which are akin to fine crispy pancakes), adds a street food influence – smooth, creamy and the ‘chips’ the perfect vehicle for enjoying the refined and silky purée.
The classic dish of braised lamb machboos delivers succulent lamb and, as an added twist, it’s cooked in a sweet and savoury teriyaki sauce with fragrant spiced rice acts as the perfect accompaniment.
Finally, the super-sweet Liwa dates batheeta (the waiter did warn me, but I have sweet tooth!). This dessert is based on batheeth, a traditional Emirati sweet snack consisting of toasted flour and dates flavoured with warm spices such as ginger, cardamom, and cinnamon. This version delivers an intriguing blend of textures and delivers a ‘bomb’ of glorious sweetness; caramel blending with chocolate and date flavours.
The team
The team deliver discreet and endearing service – softly spoken yet clearly showing a passion for the cuisine. Pace is just right; a sense of calm pervades the room, as they exclaim: ‘it is a place of nourishment for body and soul’.The chefs are firmly in the background; however, they do wish you goodbye as you leave
Exclusive tips
• They serve breakfast on weekends• Many of the refreshing drinks are inspired by the bounty of local ingredients, there are also freshly squeezed juices
• If you’re feeling full, the luqaimat with sesame seeds and Liwa date syrup would make a good finish and are ideal to share with some coffee
• Make sure you get there early to fully appreciate the terrific surroundings
• The car park closes at midnight, just be aware if you go for a stroll after dinner
• If you’d like some privacy (or intimacy) ask for a table in one of the majlis
