Are you one of Abu Dhabi’s non-Muslim community who isn’t fasting during the Holy Month? Sophie Dilda scours the city to find ten places to have a discreet meal while remaining respectful of local culture.
Api Cae Gourmet
Situated in the heart of Abu Dhabi’s bustling Khalidiyah district, Api Cae Gourmet offers a delicious range of authentic Italian food made from only the freshest ingredients. With a lively atmosphere and a healthy menu (their spaghetti calabrese contains only 169 calories), they’re serving all day.
Open daily during Ramadan noon-midnight for dine in and delivery. Khalidiya Tower A, Khalidiyah (02 666 8909).
Jones the Grocer
This award-winning gourmet café offers a delectable array of delicious food, from sandwiches and soups to cupcakes and croissants. If you’re looking for a quick lunch made from fresh organic ingredients then Jones is the place for you. To beat the heat we recommend the smoked salmon bagel, washed down with one of their delightful iced coffees.
Open during Ramadan Sun-Thu 9am-10.30pm; Fri-Sat 10am-11pm, dine in and take away. Building B, Ground Floor 06/07 Corner 4th Muroor & 15th Street, Al Muroor (02 443 8762).
Biancorosso
Drop into Biancorosso on your lunch break if you’re looking for friendly staff, a cheerful atmosphere and, most importantly, a slice or five of the best pizza Abu Dhabi has to offer. Finish up your Biancorosso experience with one of their legendary tiramisus and an authentic espresso. You won’t be disappointed.
Open during Ramadan Sat-Thu noon-2.30pm, 5.30pm-11.30pm; Fri 5.30pm-11.30pm for dine in, delivery and takeaway. Y Tower, Al Nahyan (02 658 4244).
Han Kang
Tucked away in the lush green grounds of Abu Dhabi City Golf Club is Han Kang, an understated Korean eatery where the menu is extensive, the staff are efficient and the food is delectable. The menu is based on diners having only one dish; however orders do come with mouthwatering extras such as spinach, soup and pickles.
Open daily during Ramadan 11am-3pm, 5pm-9pm for dine in and takeaway. Abu Dhabi City Golf Club, Sas Al Nakhl (050 424 7720).
Lebanese Flower
Easily one of the most popular Lebanese restaurants in the city. Lebanese Flower, as we all know, is a cheap and cheerful restaurant boasting an impressive range of luscious cuisine including unbelievably inexpensive mezze and grills. They are open in the afternoon.
Open during Ramadan from 4pm for dine in and take away. Behind Electra and 26th Street (02 665 8700).
Bonna Annee
Offering superb Ethiopian food in an unassuming setting, Bonna Annee is a must-try experience any time of the year. We recommend the Bonna Annee Special, a range of dishes from the menu in smaller portions that will allow you to figure out what you do and don’t like for your next visit because you will be back.
Open daily during Ramadan from 3pm onwards for dine in and deliveries. Al Salaam Street, opposite the old blood blank (02 491 2128).
Sushi Central
A small but welcoming restaurant where you can sample scrumptious fresh sushi for a reasonable price. They are offering a number of deals during Ramadan including buy two rolls and get either one plate of fresh watermelon cuts or one miso soup free, and buy one yakitori of your choice and get one home-made iced tea free.
Open daily during Ramadan from 11.30am onwards for deliveries and takeaways. Khalidiyah Street, opposite Dana Plaza, Al Khalidiyah (600 52 0007).
Chappan Bhog
Chappan Bhog began as a humble Indian sweets and savouries shop, a far cry from the bustling 100 percent vegetarian restaurant it is today. They offer a range of charming curries and numerous North and South Indian snacks.
Open daily during Ramadan 9am-11pm for dine in and take away. Al Salaam Street, behind ADNOC building (02 677 8864).
Jun Encarnacion Café and Restaurant
Order a delivery from this cheap and cheerful Asian eatery if you’re looking for a filling lunch on a budget. Choose from a range of Filipino, Chinese, Vietnamese and even Italian cuisine (although we recommend sticking to the Asian part of the menu).
Open daily during Ramadan 11am-3pm for deliveries only. Al Markaziyah, Hamdan Street (02 672 3378).
The Noodle House
With a range of tasty dishes and a relaxing view over Maqta’a Creek, The Noodle House is a great choice if you’re looking for a discreet location to have lunch. Placing your order by ticking off dishes on a paper order form adds a quirky touch, and the authenticity of the food enhances the general dining experience. The atmosphere is warm, the staff are friendly and the mocktails and iced teas are absolutely fantastic.
Open daily during Ramadan noon-midnight for dine in and takeaway. Souk Qaryat Al Beri, Bain Al Jessrain (02 558 1699).
