The Best Abu Dhabi Restaurants for Al Fresco Dining

It’s hard to beat Em Sherif Sea Café at Rosewood Abu Dhabi when looking for a spot to dine outdoors in the UAE capital. The terrace offers uninterrupted views of the blue water surrounding Al Maryah Island, making it an ideal location for a relaxed lunch or an elegant dinner and seafood lovers will be spoiled for choice with the menu celebrating Lebanese flavours. The interiors, designed by Ramy Boutros, feature hand-painted Portuguese Azulejo wall tiles and a show-stopping chandelier crafted from 300 brass pots and baskets.

If you’re someone who appreciates laidback alfresco dining, then NIRI at Mamsha Al Saadiyat is for you. The restaurant is perched on the white sands of Saadiyat Island, with the terrace lending itself to be the perfect spot to soak up golden sunsets over turquoise waters. The Japanese restaurant’s menu is a nod to simplicity and flavour, and offers everything from yakitori to sushi. The wood-themed interiors are minimalist – and there’s also a Sakura tree – while the terrace shines no matter what time you pop by.

You can’t quite beat the views from Cipriani Yas Island, where the Yas Marina is unveiled in its full glory. Known for its refined Italian charm, the terrace at Cipriani is the star; guests will see sweeping vistas of the yachts, marina waters and, of course, the iconic Yas Marina circuit. The menu is known for Cipriani’s signature style that is simple Italian food – try the baked tagliolini or the carpaccio alla Cipriani (invited by Giuseppe Cipriani Sr. in 1950). The venue, designed by Florentine architect Michele Bonan, has a sense of understated luxury. The restaurant’s private dining areas also highlight the incredible views: The Harry Cipriani Room has panoramic views of the marina and circuit, while the Venetian Room has private access to the terrace.

You’ll find a taste of the Mediterranean paired with a touch of la dolce vita with this collaboration between renowned French chef Pierre Gagnaire and La Petite Maison founder Nicole Rubi. Guests will be transported straight to Italy in this sun-drenched restaurant, where they can try a range of dishes from crostinis and handmade pasta to wood-fire pizzas and snails drenched in garlic butter. The restaurant’s inviting terrace overlooking the Yas Bay waterfront is where you can unwind while enjoying the gentle sea breeze.

Located within the InterContinental Abu Dhabi and overlooking the marina with boats gently bobbing in the water, Byblos Sur Mer delivers a charming dining experience. The two-level layout offers plenty of seating and the terrace space offers unrestricted waterfront views which you can enjoy with a chilled glass of arak. A veritable feast of Lebanese classic dishes are available to order, amid the lively atmosphere of live music and entertainment.

Mika – which was awarded a Bib Gourmand in the MICHELIN Guide Abu Dhabi 2024 – has brought the essence of the Riviera to Yas Marina, and is an al fresco dining gem where the menu effortlessly blends Mediterranean with Middle Eastern flavours. Its waterfront views dotted with impressive yachts are pleasing, and diners can order fresh dishes such as cod croquettes, house-cured salmon and the restaurant’s signatures of homemade limoncello and Nonna’s tiramisu.

A seaside setting is where diners will find themselves upon making their way to Finz, which is located at the Beach Rotana hotel. It’s quite a magical experience as the restaurant is perched overwater and offers views of Al Reem Island. As fitting its location, the menu is a celebration of the sea and plates up classic seafood dishes as well as those that infuse global flavours. It’s a serene space, whether you pick a table in the airy dining room or the outdoor terrace.

With a Bib Gourmand in the MICHELIN Guide Abu Dhabi 2024, Beirut Sur Mer is all about enjoying Lebanese food by the sea. The restaurant is located within the Cultural District of Saadiyat Island and is just a stone’s throw away from the Louvre Abu Dhabi. Beirut Sur Mer delivers everything you’d hope for in a Lebanese dining experience – from moreish mezze, perfectly grilled mashawi and more. Portions are more than generous with guests able to enjoy these from the edge of the waters lapping against the shores of Saadiyat Island.

For al fresco dining with a touch of elegance, Catch at St. Regis is a hard one to beat. Nestled along the Corniche within the Nation Riviera Beach Club, this seafood restaurant features a stunning beachfront space that forms a great base to soak up sea views and glowing sunsets. The seafood menu showcases a Japanese influence, with its nigiri and sashimi offering great options to pick from. The charcoal grill adds depth to dishes, bringing out the best in premium steaks as well as seafood.

Tucked away in the charming Venetian Village at The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, you can taste Northern Indian cuisine at Punjab Grill. While there’s plenty of seating inside, it’s fair to say the outdoor area is the real gem here. You can sit here and enjoy the calm waters of the canal while sitting in a relaxed setting that feels miles away from the city’s bustle. While you’re here, savour Indian dishes from kababs to rich curries on beautifully presented plates. Whether you’re heading out for a date night or family gathering, or even an evening with friends, Punjab Grill delivers on all counts.