In recent years, Abu Dhabi has fully embraced vegetarian and vegan cuisine.
Whereas interesting and exciting vegetarian recipes were once hard to find, the city now has an abundance of vegetarian-friendly or purely vegetarian restaurants.
Whether you’re a full vegetarian or you’re simply trying to consume less meat, you no longer have to compromise on taste or quality when eating out.
Offering everything from purely vegetarian Indian restaurants to plant-based specialties from Vietnam, Italy, the USA and beyond, all of the spots below excel at flavoursome, innovative and high-quality vegetarian cuisine, and you are sure to love each and every one of them.
Alkalime
Mamsha Al Saadiyat
One of the first truly sustainable cafe concepts to emerge in Abu Dhabi, Alkalime’s menu is almost entirely meat and fish free.
Set against stunning sea views over Mamsha Beach, every dish is completely fresh and made in house, including everything from the granola (also available in bags to take home), to the vegan cashew cheese, nut milks, and sauces, right down to the Lotus spread used in the epic vegan Lotus Roll dessert.
Art classes and community talks complete the wholesome vibe, and it’s a popular spot for ethically-minded remote workers, too.
Tried and tested: You can’t make a bad decision here. Offering an ever-changing menu of seasonal specials, the Arabic breakfast is made for sharing, while the mushroom risotto is like a hug in a bowl.
For bookings: 054 449 1547
Address: Jacques Chirac St – Al Sa’DiyatCultural – SDN1 – Abu Dhabi
Read more about it: Alkalime
Visit: Alkalime
Antonia
Mamsha Al Saadiyat, Al Zeina and The Galleria Al Maryah Island
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Italian cuisine is naturally suited to vegetarians, but Antonia goes above and beyond to make those on a meat-free diet feel welcome.
Famed for its authentic Roman-style sourdough square pizzas, fresh pastas and family-style recipes inspired by the founder’s nonna Antonia, it’s the perfect casual dinner spot, and everything on the menu is simply superb.
One of Abu Dhabi’s most adored homegrown concepts, the Mamsha Al Saadiyat branch treats you to magnificent sea views while you dine, while each location is so popular that they operate on a walk-in only basis.
Tried and tested: The tonnarelli cacio e pepe is on another level of superb, while the impossibly creamy burrata with tomato and rich layered parmegiana are essential add ons, too. Oh, and don’t even think about leaving without grabbing a scoop or two of the homemade gelato, or the legendary (and vegan friendly) lemon or orange sorbet, made with zesty citrus fruit from Italy.
For bookings: 02 667 2554
Address: Mamsha Al Saadiyat, Al Zeina and The Galleria Al Maryah Island
Read more about it: Antonia
Visit: Antonia
Black Tap
Mamsha Al Saadiyat, Abu Dhabi
The place to go to satisfy your veggie burger cravings, the meat-free options at Black Tap are just as famous as its all-American beef ones.
Choose between the Arabic-inspired falafel burger with feta, onions and tahini, or the classic vegan burger with vegan mayo, salsa verde and more delicious toppings, and don’t forget the sides of guac and chips or Asian street corn, too.
Tried and tested: If you’re really hungry, kick off your feast with some of the utterly indulgent and ever-so-cheesy fried mozzarella with chipotle dip. Or, if you like a bit of spice, check out the equally naughty sriracha mac and cheese.
For bookings: 02 446 5128
Address: Mamsha Al Saadiyat, Abu Dhabi
Read more about it: Black Tap
Visit: Black Tap
Café 302
Al Maha Arjaan by Rotana
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Cosy and friendly, Café 302 is many people’s go-to spot for a hearty breakfast or a long leisurely lunch downtown.
A long established Abu Dhabi institution on the always bustling Hamdan Street, the large indoor area offers lots of cosy corners and quiet spots for remote working, while the terrace is a lovely place to relax during the cooler months.
Famed for its excellent meat-free options, it offers a superb choice of vegetarian curries, pizzas, stews, pastas, wraps and sandwiches, plus a dedicated vegan breakfast menu, and a fabulous range of vegan cakes (the vegan Belgian chocolate cake is particularly incredible).
Tried and tested: You’ll struggle to find a better veggie burger in the city. Whether you go for the portobello and black bean patty, or ‘The Ultimate’ with Beyond meat and caramelised onions, you’ll leave exceptionally full and happy.
For bookings: 02 610 6688
Address: Saeed Bin Ahmed Al Otaiba St – Al Danah – Zone 1 – Abu Dhabi
Read more about it: Café 302
Visit: Café 302
Cheesecake Factory
The Galleria Mall, Al Maryah Island and Yas Mall, Abu Dhabi
It’s hardly a homegrown hidden gem, but The Cheesecake Factory is a a fail-safe spot for vegetarian American-style comfort foods.
Always served in famously large portions and accompanied by free soft drink refills, complimentary warm and crusty bread and unfailingly quick service, sliding into one of the retro booths with your crew is always exciting.
Explore jaw-dropping creations such as the mammoth mac n cheese burger, tempting bites such as stuffed mushrooms and loaded potato skins, and all kinds of enormous breakfasts (the California omelette with avocado, sour cream, and more tempting fillings is glorious with a side of the fried potatoes).
Tried and tested: Packed with crunchy and colourful vegetables, Evelyn’s Favorite Pasta strikes just the right balance between healthy and comforting, while the doorstop cheesecakes (the fresh strawberry has been the best seller for 45 years) are so big they really need to be shared.
For bookings: 02 492 6822
Address: The Galleria Mall Al Maryah Island and Yas Mall, Abu Dhabi
Read more about it: Cheesecake Factory
Visit: Cheesecake Factory
Gala Abu Dhabi
Century Hotel Apartments, Al Zahiyah, Abu Dhabi
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While no longer dedicated purely to vegetarian cuisine, the majority of Gala’s menu is still vegan and vegetarian friendly.
Spanning a diverse array of specialties from across Asia, including everything from Indian paneer makhani to Thai tom yum soup, Burmese khow suey and authentic steamed Chinese dim sum, there are even a range of Italian recipes thrown in too.
Tried and tested: The Indian selection is truly exceptional. Spanning all kinds of creative vegetable and paneer curries, starters and rice dishes, the black dahl and decon paneer tikka masala are some of the many must-dry recipes.
For bookings: 02 449 0488
Address: Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan St – Al Zahiyah – E16 01 – Abu Dhabi
Read more about it: Gala Abu Dhabi
Visit: Gala Abu Dhabi
Krave Abu Dhabi
Al Qana, Abu Dhabi
Found inside The Bridge, the beautiful wellness hub overlooking the canal at Al Qana, Krave is one of Abu Dhabi’s most exciting new vegetarian-friendly restaurants.
Ideally suited to The Bridge’s health-conscious clientele and ethical values, it’s a super spot for those looking for a nutritious and veggie-packed feed.
Offering a lengthy selection of guilt-free breakfasts (ranging from spinach egg white omelettes to skinny pancakes and halloumi guac wraps), wholesome mains such as curries, pastas, burgers and wraps, and all kinds of fresh juices, smoothies and protein shakes, it’s just the place for a post-workout refuel, remote working or a filling yet healthy lunch.
Tried and tested: The homemade hummus is amazingly smooth and silky, while the huge salads (in particular the organic quinoa and sweet potato and beets) are the ultimate proof that eating your greens doesn’t have to be a chore.
For bookings: 02 616 4540
Address: CF2W+X9 – Rabdan – RB6 – Abu Dhabi
Read more about it: Krave
Visit: Krave
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Market at Edition
EDITION Abu Dhabi, Al Bateen
Long regarded as Abu Dhabi’s trendiest health-conscious restaurant, Market at Edition is every vegan or vegetarian’s dream breakfast spot.
Covered in trailing vines and greenery, and tucked away off the hipster-friendly lobby of The Abu Dhabi Edition, it’s a stylish and exciting place to start your day.
Offering a whole vegan breakfast menu (scrambled tofu, chocolate pancakes, mezze boards and more included), along with superfood-rich breakfast specials, eggs, granola bowls, smoothies and more, the lunch options are also vegetarian-friendly, with mushroom orzo, burrata salad, miso noodle soup and more available to enjoy.
Tried and tested: The vegan barley porridge with agave syrup, nuts, figs, cinnamon and almond milk is so good you could eat it every day, while the colourful and creative avocado beet hummus toast and green scrambled eggs on brioche taste as good as they look.
For bookings: 02 208 0000
Address: Al Bateen, W35, Abu Dhabi
Read more about it: Market at Edition
Visit: Market at Edition
Sanderson’s
Al Seef Village Mall, Abu Dhabi
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Offering artisan markets and mum’s social events, Sanderson’s is a central part of the Abu Dhabi community.
Completed with a pretty dining room, leafy open terrace and a play area for little ones, the diverse menu offers loads of tempting vegan and vegetarian options, and possibly the biggest breakfast selection you’ll find in the city.
Tried and tested: The inspirational quotes that come with each hot or cold beverage are a lovely touch, while the broccoli tacos with chickpea ragu, coleslaw, avocado, and feta are awesome enough to convert even the biggest carnivores.
For bookings: 02 222 1142
Address: Near Khalifa Park, Abu Dhabi
Read more about it: Sanderson’s
Visit: Sanderson’s
Shakespeare and Co.
Various Locations
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It might take a while to leaf through Shakespeare and Co’s enormous menu, but you’ll be rewarded for your patience with far too many excellent vegetarian and vegan specials to count.
Plus, while some might say that the interior design is a little kitsch, there’s something about the elaborate, Vistorian-style decor that adds to the experience.
For a light lunch, choose between loads of fresh salads and power bowls, homemade soups, chunky sandwiches (the hummus toast and halloumi sandwich are 10/10) and
Beyond meat burgers, or explore more adventurous plates such as the very popular braised Thai tofu skewers, cauliflower tacos or vegan paella.
Tried and tested: It’s hard to do vegan cheese well, but this friendly UAE-born chain actually offers some of the best you’ll try in the country.
Give it a whirl in the mega-sized vegan grilled cheese, the vegan mac n cheese, vegan lasagna or one of the many other innovative plant-based specials, and remember to save some room for a slice of brownie as well.
For bookings: 02 584 6088
Address: Various Locations
Read more about it:R Shakespeare and Co.
Visit: Shakespeare and Co.
Sweet Greens
Reem Island and Rihan Heights, Abu Dhabi
All about making healthy eating fun and easy, homegrown Sweet Greens is known for its excellent ready-made meal plans and vegan alternatives.
The highlights of the dedicated vegan menu include the light yet filling tempeh kale rice bowl, and the lentil shepherd’s pie, an ultra-cosy and comforting dish packed with real veggies and all-natural ingredients.
Also offering vegan taco salads, pizzas, quesadillas, pastas and much more, plus high-quality vegan and vegetarian meal plans delivered to your front door, its daily all-you-eat breakfast events are always a big hit as well.
Tried and tested: If you’re tired of the same-old veggie-burger recipes, you’ll love the creativity behind the Asian-influenced satay tofu burger, layered with spicy sriracha, avocado, pickled onions and peanut butter (it works, honest).
For bookings: 058 597 8455
Address: Bay Towers – Tower A Ar Reem St – Reem Island – Najmat Abu Dhabi – Abu Dhabi
Read more about it: Sweet Greens
Visit: Sweet Greens
Vietnamese Pho
Reem Island, Danat and Khalifa City, Abu Dhabi
A must try for fans of authentic Asian cuisine, Vietnamese Pho is famous for its heartwarming noodle soups and amazingly affordable prices.
Offering countless different vegetable and tofu noodle varieties, vegetarian dim sum, boa buns, avocado and tofu sushi and many more meat and fish-free options, all made with fresh ingredients and expert skill, you’ll come away with a whole new appreciation for Vietnam’s ruch culinary culture.
Tried and tested: Start with the delightfully crispy, golden salted egg tofu and vegetarian spring rolls, before diving into the ultra-aromatic vegetarian noodle soup (customised with chilli sauce to your preferred level of spice) and finished with a compulsory portion of sticky mango rice.
Don’t forget a glass of nourishing hot ginger tea either – you’ll feel all the better for it.
For bookings: tel:056 422 0621
Address: Reem Island, Danat and Khalifa City, Abu Dhabi
Read more about it: Vietnamese Pho
Visit: Vietnamese Pho
Rasoi Ghar
Yas Mall, Abu Dhabi
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Offering purely vegetarian Indian cuisine, Rasoi Ghar at Yas Mall is ideal for a pre-cinama feed or a mid-shopping refuel.
Unique in the fact that it only offers thali-style set menus (with unlimited refills), the line up changes every day, and you’re sure to leave full to bursting.
Offering authentic starters such as dhokla, kachori, samosas, and chaats, followed by every kind of vegetarian dal, sabzi and curry you can imagine and pretty traditional sweet desserts, its ideal for those looking for a taste of home, or anyone who wants to discover new Indian recipes.
Tried and tested: Coated in rich and creamy cashew and tomato sauce, the crowd-pleasing paneer lababdar is unfailingly brilliant. Just one bite is enough to show you what all the fuss is about.
For bookings: 02 550 0567
Address: Yas Mall Ferrari World Main Entrance, Abu Dhabi
Read more about it: Rasoi Ghar
Visit: Rasoi Ghar
Sangam Indian Restaurant
Al Danah, Abu Dhabi
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On a mission to introduce Abu Dhabi to the amazing flavours and recipes of South Indian and North Indian vegetarian cuisine, Sangam Indian Restaurant is another must-try for anyone with a weakness for spicy and flavoursome Indian food.
Available for dine in and delivery, the ambiance at the Downtown restaurant is always friendly and welcoming, and the prices are incredibly reasonable, too.
Whether you’re there for a light and fluffy dosa for breakfast or a spread of rich and aromatic curries for dinner, you won’t be disappointed.
Tried and tested: The thali trays offer all manner of exciting recipes, while the fiery chilli gobi is the perfect shareable side or starter.
For bookings: 02 677 6744
Address: Khalifa Bin Zayed The First St – Al Danah – Zone 1 – Abu Dhabi
Read more about it: Sangam Indian Restaurant
Visit: Sangam Indian Restaurant
Tadka Mania
Al Zahiyah, Abu Dhabi
Tucked away in the Tourist Club Area, one of the oldest parts of Abu Dhabi, Tadka Mania is the very definition of a hidden gem.
One of the cheapest vegetarian restaurants in the city, its extraordinarily vast selection of North Indian and South Indian breakfasts, curries, chaats, and tarters will set you back as little as AED 10 per portion, and the team are immensely warm and welcoming, too.
However, be warned that this is an authentic Indian spot, so remember to ask them to tone it down if you don’t like too much spice.
Tried and tested: The momos (stuffed dumplings) have a legion of fans, while the paneer butter masala is sure to be the best you’ve ever tried. Or, if you don’t know where to start with the endless options on offer, opt for the Royal Thali, and try a little bit of all the best sellers.
For bookings: 02 675 1785
Address: Ahmed Bin Hamed Al Hamed St – Al Zahiyah – E14 – Abu Dhabi
Read more about it: Tadka Mania
Visit: Tadka Mania
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