10 Of The Best Vegetarian Restaurants in Abu Dhabi

Overflowing with everything from fine dining to cheap and cheerful holes in the wall, it can be surprisingly hard to track down the best vegetarian restaurants in Abu Dhabi. With a little digging, there are definitely treasure troves of veggie goodness to uncover - whether you're a long-time vegetarian or simply looking to mix it up a bit and explore plant-based cuisine. Here are a few of our favourites - from regular restaurants with a cracking vegetarian offering, to pure vegetarian restaurants and right across the spectrum to vegan-friendly dinner spots, lock in for the best veg restaurants in Abu Dhabi - and if we missed your favourite, let us know! 

Golden Spoon Restaurant

Al Danah

Any list of pure vegetarian restaurants in Abu Dhabi would be seriously lacking if Golden Spoon was missed: it’s a must-visit. Located in the heart of downtown, this popular on-island eatery serves a delightful range of North Indian and Chinese vegetarian dishes that will leave even your non-veg mates with a full belly and a smile on their faces. 

Don’t pass up a plate of fresh manchurian - this Indian-Chinese dish is always a winner and bursting with flavour - and the dahi ke kebab, a great version of this North Indian favourite. The relaxed atmosphere makes it a lovely spot for families or groups, and it frequently tops our list when we’re asked about the best vegetarian food in Abu Dhabi.

Open: daily | 9AM - 11PM

Contact: 02 633 7155

Alkalime Healthy Restaurant

Mamsha Beach

If you’re in the mood for something a little more bougie - and dining with a view - Alkalime at Mamsha Beach on Saadiyat offers a stunning beachfront experience alongside their delicious vegetarian menu. Health-focused, modern dishes are the order of the day here - and they score big points for being both nutritious and insta-worthy! The cafe itself has a great vibe - there is a cute retail corner if you fancy a browse, and it’s a great shout for a remote working day, with tables to settle into for maximum productivity as you sip on your favourite matcha, smoothie, tea or coffee. 

When you visit, don't miss the Arabic breakfast basket - it’s like girl dinner, but vegetarian - filled with lots of picky bits. Dig into their colourful sweet potato pancakes, or go for a smoothie bowl - packed with fresh fruits and superfoods, it’s exactly the sort of dish you’d want to enjoy with endless blue skies and the Gulf spread before you: holiday mode, activated! With special attention to dietary requirements and a healthy ethos, it is up there as one of the top vegetarian restaurants in Abu Dhabi for health-conscious diners. The relaxed vibe and picturesque location make it an excellent choice for a casual breakfast with friends or lovely lunch by the beach to keep your energy levels high. 

Open: daily | 8AM - 10PM | Sundays from 9AM

Contact: 054 449 1547

West to West Kitchen African & Caribbean Restaurant

Al Danah

Ok, these guys aren’t strictly vegetarian, but they have a brilliant veg and vegan menu so they’re a must try for vegetarians - their dishes boast an excellent depth of flavour and some really homey African and Caribbean soul food. Another feather in their cap? West to West Kitchen stands out among the best vegetarian restaurants in Abu Dhabi that offer delivery - indeed, the restaurant only hosts a couple of tables so grabbing a stack of dishes to go is your best bet! 

Try the ground nut stew - there’s a chicken version as well, as with many of their dishes, so if you order online make sure you’re choosing the right ones! - and their  Sierra Leonean vegan awojoh binch wrap - both vegetarian options that are sure to delight even the pickiest taste buds. The delivery option is perfect if you have a group with mixed dietaries - you’re not serving up a sad lettuce for your vegetarian friends while everyone else has a feast - making it one of our favourite restaurants with vegetarian food for groups in the city.

Open: Tuesday - Sunday | 12PM - 10PM | until 11PM Friday - Sunday

Contact: 02 671 9119

GALA Restaurant

Tourist Club Area - Al Zahiyah

Fancy a fine dining vegetarian experience in Abu Dhabi without the price tag? Gala Restaurant ticks both boxes, making this new(ish) kid on the block definitely worth a visit. It’s bright and spacious, with plenty of natural light and a welcoming vibe - ideal for catching up with friends or enjoying a quiet meal mid-week. The menu is bursting with delicious vegetarian and vegan options, showcasing all your favourite Indian dishes but with gorgeous presentation and some inspiration from around the globe - check out their take on tacos, falafel and gnocchi. If you’re in the ‘Indian food isn’t very pretty’ camp, GALA will change your mind. 

This is one you’ll want to schedule in a return visit for: we pretty much demolished everything we tried. Our highlights? Sambal paneer tikka with mint foam, bite-sized margarita kulcha and gulab jamun churros with rabri mousse for dessert is a non-negotiable - the waitress almost had to pry the pot of mousse from our hands. Save room! For something different, check out their afternoon tea - a fresh take on the Abu Dhabi afternoon tea scene that’s full of flavour. 

Open: daily | 11.30AM - 11.30PM

Contact: 02 449 0488