With a skyline as epic as Abu Dhabi’s, it makes sense that this city by the sea has its fair share of panoramic restaurants. Whether you’re after a seat by the water or you want sky-high dining along with the dizzying heights of luxury that the gastronomic scene here has to offer, there will be something in Abu Dhabi that gives you the perfect view, along with exceptional cuisine.
Cipriani
Overlooking the striking Yas Marina and Yas Viceroy Hotel (and the Formula 1 racing track), the views as you dine at Cipriani are more than impressive. The hearty Italian food and savoir-flair service are also equally appealing, and steeped in Italian tradition. So for a taste of classic Italian fare with views of modern Abu Dhabi, Cipriani is a fab summer dining spot. www.ciprianiyasisland.com
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Catch
Catch
Sea views and seafood make the perfect match. And at Catch, a relative newcomer to Abu Dhabi’s gastronomic scene, both the unique gourmet seafood and wow-factor panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf and Corniche are some of the finest in the city. The interiors could be straight out of a décor magazine and the menu is brimming with inventive seafood fusion cuisine and flavour hints from Asia and the Middle East. And for carnivores, the meat is pretty epic too. www.catch.ae
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Stratos
Stratos: Revolving Lounge Bar and Grill
It would be hard to argue that the views from Abu Dhabi’s first revolving restaurant on the 26th floor of Le Royal Meridien Hotel aren’t some of the best in the city. With floor to ceiling glass windows and a 360-degree revolving floor, Stratos offers unsurpassed city views as well as fine dining (including an in-house caviar expert), afternoon tea and late night revelry. www.stratosabudhabi.com
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Asia De Cuba
Asia De Cuba beach deck
The first and foremost reason why Abu Dhabi’s foodies and visitors in the know can often be found dining at Asia de Cuba, is the hands-down fabulous food, which magically blends Cuban cuisine with an Asian twist. But with its prime waterside location on Abu Dhabi’s Corniche (Catch is a neighbour), Asia de Cuba also offers diners stunning views of the ocean, even from inside, when the beachside terrace is too hot even for chilled ceviche. www.asiadecuba.com
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Byblos Sur Mer
Byblos Sur Mer
Byblos sur Mer is not only beside the sea, it is in fact within the Intercontinental Abu Dhabi’s private marina. Expect super yachts and an ocean breeze as you tuck into Lebanese favourites including mezzeh, grilled meats and fish tartares. When the summer heat kicks in, the vast windows give the feeling of being outside even though you’re in, benefiting from the air-con. www.dining-intercontinetal-ad.ae
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Li Jiang
Li Jing
It is not just Li Jiang’s setting in the waterside hotel of the Ritz Carlton Grand Canal, perched on Abu Dhabi’s Al Maqta Creek or the neighbouring Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, which give it its impressive views, but also the restaurant’s market-style vibrant open kitchen. Watch chefs prepare your dim sum and hand pulled noodles, or enjoy a live wok show. www.ritzcarlton.com
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Sky High Tea
High Tea at Observation Deck 300
For one of the best city views in town, make your way 300 metres up to the Observation Deck 300 at Jumeirah at Etihad Towers and be prepared to gaze in awe at the sights below. And instead of the usual, what goes up, must come down moment, why not take a seat, savour the 360 panoramic views and partake in the truly decadent pastime of afternoon tea. www.jumeirah.com