Chopsticks At The Ready: Chinese Restaurants In Abu Dhabi!

ALL DIRECTIONS

NEAR ELECTRA STREET

After many positive All Directions reviews, we had to tick it off our list of places to try. Thinking back, 11 dishes between 3 people was really ambitious but there were so many items on the menu it was hard to narrow it down! Highlights are the crispy sweet and sour chicken, the leek fried dumplings and the fried buns. The flavour on the sweet and sour chicken is perfect while the fried leek dumplings are made by hand and packed with flavour and the fried buns are very authentic. So yummy!

The broth on the beef noodle soup is lighter than you might expect but is a nice compliment to the other spicy/fried dishes. Portions are massive - the 11 dishes could easily have fed 9!

Ordering was really easy over what’s app. You can use the numbers listed beside each menu item to order. All Directions is definitely going in the rotation of our best delivery options! #supportlocal

Open: 11AM - 11PM

Booking: 02 882 6441 or order direct via what’s app 056 585 9889

‍

‍DAI PAI DONG

ROSEWOOD ABU DHABI

As you step into Dai Pai Dong, you are transported to a traditional Chinese tea house, dark and atmospheric.

First to the table comes a steaming basket of dim sum. The fish dumpling is packed with flaky fish and fresh coriander, and the roe atop the har gow gives a delicious burst of flavour that set off the soft shrimp inside. The siu mai topped with abalone combined meaty and buttery flavours - one of our favourites.

If you're looking for something light, try the exceptionally fresh seafood vegetable salad packed with shrimp, and also the melt-in-your-mouth wagyu beef cheeks, the spicy crumb coating contrasting beautifully with the tender meat.

The BBQ platter is a total menu highlight for us. The soft and sticky char siu pork neck and wonderfully crusted crispy pork belly are bound to please the pork lovers among us, while the soya chicken is one for garlic fiends. Of course, no Chinese meal is complete without crispy duck, and the Cantonese roasted duck does not disappoint.

We can't get enough of the Hong Kong egg tart with passion fruit, and the sorbet and mango sago soup, a super end to a meal which sports premium ingredients and great plating.

Timing: Daily from 12PM

Bookings: 02813 5550

NEW CITY PALACE

AL FALAH STREET

If you're on the hunt for solid Chinese food in Abu Dhabi, New City Palace should definitely be on your radar. Tucked away in the city, this unassuming spot serves up big flavors without the fuss—and that's kind of its charm.

First off, don't expect fancy interiors or over-the-top presentation. This place is all about hearty portions and seriously tasty dishes. Their chili chicken? Spicy, crispy, and just the right kind of addictive. The fried rice is always on point, and the sweet and sour options hit that nostalgic comfort-food note.

What makes New City Palace stand out among other Chinese restaurants in Abu Dhabi is the balance they strike between affordability and flavor. You walk in, order a couple of mains and some rice or noodles, and you leave full and happy—without breaking the bank.

It’s especially great for a casual dinner or a late-night craving. Service is quick, the staff is friendly, and there's a steady stream of regulars, which is always a good sign.

So if you're craving classic, no-frills Chinese food, New City Palace might just be your new go-to.

Open: 11.30-10.30PM

Booking: 02 626 2762

SHANG PALACE

SHANGRI-LA ABU DHABI

If you're craving high-quality Chinese food in Abu Dhabi, Shang Palace at the Shangri-La is a standout. It’s definitely one of the more refined Chinese restaurants Abu Dhabi has to offer, and it lives up to the reputation with both its food and atmosphere.

From the moment you walk in, the vibe is warm and elegant—think traditional Chinese décor with a luxury twist. It’s the kind of place that works just as well for a special dinner as it does for a relaxed weekend brunch with friends.

Food-wise, they’re not messing around. Chef He has been at the helm at Shang Palace for some years and his desire to take guests to the next level is something that shines out in every dish served. The Peking Duck is probably the star of the show - it's crispy, tender, and shredded right at your table. Their dim sum is also legit, with a nice variety that’s perfect for sharing. If you’re into bold flavors, try the Szechuan dishes which truly bring the heat.

The service is also worth a mention. Staff are attentive without being over the top, and they really know their stuff when it comes to explaining the menu or making recommendations.

Whether you’re a local or just visiting, Shang Palace is a great option if you want something a little more upscale in the world of Chinese restaurants in Abu Dhabi. It’s the kind of place you’ll want to come back to—especially if you’ve got a soft spot for dim sum or duck.

‍

CHINA RESTAURANT

NOVEL HOTEL

If you're craving no-nonsense, flavoUrful Chinese food in Abu Dhabi, China Restaurant Abu Dhabi is one of those places you might not expect to love as much as you do but once you’ve been, you’ll keep going back.

It’s got that old-school, casual charm: simple interiors, fast service, and food that comes out hot and packed with flavour. It might not be the flashiest place in town, but it makes up for it with comforting, classic dishes that hit all the right notes.

The sweet and sour chicken is crispy and tangy in all the best ways, and the Szechuan beef has just the right amount of spice. Their fried rice and noodles are great for sharing (or not - no judgment). And the portion sizes? Generous.

It’s the kind of spot that feels familiar even on your first visit. Whether you’re dining in or grabbing takeout, it’s reliable, tasty, and affordable.

If you’re looking for a laid-back spot that serves solid Chinese food in Abu Dhabi, China Restaurant Abu Dhabi is worth checking out. No frills—just good food and good value.

Open: 11.30AM - 3.30PM, 6PM - 11PM

Contact: 02 659 2973

‍

‍

DIN TAI FUNG

THE GALLERIA AL MARYAH

If you've ever typed "best Chinese restaurant near me" into Google while craving dumplings, there's a good chance Din Tai Fung popped up—and for good reason. This place is a go-to when you want consistently delicious, comforting Chinese food without the fuss.

Located in Abu Dhabi (and with a few spots around town), Din Tai Fung is always buzzing, and that’s part of its charm. The vibe is casual but clean and modern, and you can usually peek into the open kitchen where the chefs are folding dumplings with laser focus. It’s kinda hypnotic.

Let’s talk food. The xiao long bao (soup dumplings) are the star of the show—delicate, juicy, and perfect every time. Dip them in a little soy sauce with ginger and you're golden. The chicken fried rice is simple but hits all the right notes, and the spicy wontons are full of flavor with just enough heat.

Whether you're there for noodles, dumplings, or something light like the cucumber salad, everything is fresh, fast, and consistently solid. It’s the kind of place where you’ll find yourself ordering way more than you planned—and happily polishing it all off.

Din Tai Fung is definitely one of the top spots if you're looking for a solid Chinese restaurant in Abu Dhabi that’s easygoing but still delivers on flavor. Whether you’re flying solo, grabbing a quick lunch, or bringing the whole family, it never disappoints.

Open: 10AM - 11PM

Contact: 02 446 7273

‍

HAKKASAN

EMIRATES PALACE MANDARIN ORIENTAL

If you're on the hunt for seriously good Chinese food in Abu Dhabi, Hakkasan at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental should be high on your list. It’s not just a dinner spot—it’s an experience, mixing modern Cantonese dishes with all the luxury you'd expect from one of the city’s most iconic hotels.

The vibe is sleek and moody, with dim lighting, cool music, and those signature carved wooden panels that give it a real sense of drama. Whether you sit inside or grab a spot on the gorgeous terrace, the atmosphere feels special but still comfortable.

As for the food? It’s the kind that makes you pause after each bite. The Peking duck with caviar is a standout—crispy, rich, and just the right amount of indulgent. The crispy duck salad is lighter but still packed with flavor and texture. Seafood fans should try the silver cod with Champagne and honey—silky, sweet, and a little bit addictive. And if you're into something extra fancy, the black truffle roast duck is totally worth it.

Vegetarians get love too. The tofu and aubergine claypot is warm, savory, and super satisfying. It’s proof that plant-based dishes here are just as thoughtfully made as everything else.

The drinks menu is just as exciting. The cocktails are creative and beautifully presented, and if wine’s your thing, the staff knows their stuff and can help you find the perfect match.

Finish with the Jivara bomb, a chocolate dessert that looks amazing and tastes even better. Trust us, you’ll want to take a photo before diving in.

Yes, it’s on the pricier side, but you’re paying for more than just a meal. Hakkasan is easily one of the top spots for Chinese food in Abu Dhabi and definitely a must-visit Chinese restaurant in Abu Dhabi if you’re craving something upscale and unforgettable.

Time: 6PM - 11PM

Booking: 02 690 7739

‍