Here are the 10 best pubs in Abu Dhabi for 2019

Winner

PJ O’Reilly’s
This Irish pub has been satisfying Abu Dhabi residents for over 26 years and the popular venue shows no signs of slowing down yet. It’s adored by both locals and holiday makers, and with good-value drinks and quality pub grub, we love going back here time and time again.
Le Royal Méridien Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Khalifa Street (02 695 0515).

Highly Commended

Cooper’s Bar & Restaurant
We always feel at home in this British-style pub, and the long happy hours and numerous ladies’ nights are just some of the reasons why it’s always busy. During the cooler months it’s possible to enjoy some al fresco dining on the terrace, and with giant screens covering the walls it’s ideal if you’re looking for somewhere to watch a match or two.
Park Rotana Abu Dhabi, Khalifa Park area (02 657 3325).

Victor’s Bar & Restaurant
Since opening in 2017, this pub has become quite the institution. Whether you want to sing karaoke, watch sport or dance to tunes from a live band you can do it all here. The crowd is always friendly and welcoming and the Friday brunch is great value. Add in regular bingo nights and other fun events and you have a venue that’s up there with the best around.
Hilton Capital Grand Hotel, Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Street (02 666 5508).

Nominees

Brauhaus
This authentic German eatery boasts what we reckon is the city’s largest selection of authentic German sausages, as well as plenty of fish dishes, bisques and light salads. But with a big outdoor terrace filled with wooden benches and plenty of German brews on tap, it’s also well worth heading here just for a drink. We love this place.
Beach Rotana Abu Dhabi, Ak Zahiyah (02 697 9011).

Captain’s Arms
If you like your music filled with guitars and thumping drums, then you’ll love the classic rock soundtrack at this laid-back pub. Whether you’re here for breakfast or dinner, you’ll find plenty of tempting options, and the wallet-friendly prices of the drinks are totally refreshing. A true institution.
Le Méridien Abu Dhabi, Al Zahiyah (02 644 6666).

McGettigan’s
With a jam-packed schedule of weekly entertainment, including quizzes, live music and a lively brunch and after-brunch party, there are few better pubs in Abu Dhabi than McGettigan’s. The Irish pub also provides complimentary drinks for ladies on a Tuesday evening, shows live sport from around the world and offers a menu of pub grub classics which are always a treat to devour.
Al Raha Beach Hotel & Resort, Channel Street (02 652 4333).

Heroes
This is the very definition of a ‘no-frills’ pub and that’s exactly why we love it so much. The grub is excellent, with pies, fish and chips, and even vegetable wraps if you’re trying not to go for something too stodgy. With a stage at the centre of the room the live music nights are legendary, while the post-brunch parties are lively and full of very happy people.
Crowne Plaza Abu Dhabi, Al Markaziyah (02 616 6132).

Porters English Pub
Filled with wooden tables, booths with stain-glassed windows and low-key lighting, this venue at the Grand Millennium Al Wahda has all the classic makings of a British watering-hole. This includes big screens showing live Premier League football action and other sports, a bar stocked with plenty of hops and a kitchen serving generous portions of homemade comforting dishes.
Grand Millennium Al Wahda, Hazza Bin Zayed Street (02 443 9999).

The Sportsman’s Arms
Working out at Punch, The Room or at one of the many other gyms at Zayed Sports City can work up quite a thirst (and appetite). So we’re always thankful that The Sportsman’s Arms is only a few steps away. The terrace is a blessing during the cooler months and the quiz night attracts teams from throughout the city. The barbecued dishes are also a sensation, so we recommend trying the outdoor brunch during the cooler weather.
International Tennis Centre, Zayed Sports City (02 403 4235).

The Tavern
As one of Abu Dhabi’s oldest pubs, there’s definitely an old-school charm to this place. With a low ceiling and busy bar, entering feels like you’ve somehow travelled thousands of miles to Britain. Drink prices drop to as low as Dhs25 during happy hour and the Wednesday ladies’ night is often packed. For live music, sports and a proper laugh, this is a top venue.
Sheraton Abu Dhabi Hotel & Resort, Corniche Road (02 677 3333).