Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, is often associated with luxury, skyscrapers, and fine dining. But hidden beneath its glamorous reputation is a thriving food scene filled with budget-friendly gems. From bustling street food joints to small family-run eateries, the city offers plenty of options for travelers and locals who want delicious meals without spending a fortune. In 2025, these six spots stand out as the best cheap eats in Abu Dhabi, proving that you don’t need to splurge to enjoy fantastic food.
1. Al Ibrahimi Restaurant – A Pakistani-Indian Favorite
Al Ibrahimi has long been a go-to spot for those craving hearty South Asian flavors on a budget. Known for its generous portions and affordable prices, the restaurant serves everything from aromatic biryanis and chicken karahi to freshly baked naan straight from the tandoor.
Their all-you-can-eat buffet is especially popular, offering an endless variety of curries, kebabs, and salads at a fraction of what you’d pay at high-end establishments. Located in the Tourist Club Area, Al Ibrahimi attracts a diverse crowd, from families to workers enjoying a quick dinner. For anyone looking for authentic Pakistani-Indian food in Abu Dhabi, this place delivers both quality and value.
2. Automatic Restaurant & Grill – Lebanese Street Classics
For lovers of Lebanese food, Automatic Restaurant is a household name in Abu Dhabi. With multiple branches across the city, it’s a trusted spot to grab affordable shawarmas, falafel wraps, and grilled meat platters. The shawarma sandwiches, priced under AED 10, are among the best deals in town—juicy, flavorful, and wrapped in soft pita bread.
The restaurant also offers mezze platters like hummus, baba ghanoush, and fattoush, making it ideal for sharing with friends or family. Automatic’s ability to serve quick, tasty meals at low prices has kept it thriving in a city where dining costs can often be steep.
3. Al Mrzab Restaurant – Emirati Comfort Food
If you want to try authentic Emirati cuisine without the luxury price tag, Al Mrzab is a fantastic choice. This cozy eatery specializes in traditional dishes such as harees (a wheat and meat porridge), machboos (spiced rice with meat or fish), and madrooba (a creamy fish and flour dish).
The restaurant takes pride in serving meals that feel like they’ve come straight from a local Emirati kitchen. Prices are affordable, and the warm hospitality adds to the charm. For visitors, it’s a rare opportunity to taste genuine Emirati flavors while keeping the bill modest.
4. Sardinia Restaurant – Hidden Italian Gem
Tucked away in the heart of Abu Dhabi, Sardinia Restaurant offers classic Italian flavors at wallet-friendly prices. Their wood-fired pizzas and homemade pastas are the highlights, often costing half of what you’d pay at upscale Italian spots in the city.
Popular dishes include the Margherita pizza, creamy fettuccine alfredo, and tiramisu for dessert. The portions are generous, making it a favorite among students and young professionals. Sardinia’s relaxed atmosphere and affordable pricing make it a hidden gem worth discovering, especially if you’re craving comfort food with a European twist.
5. Delhi Darbar – Indian Street Food Vibes
Abu Dhabi’s food culture wouldn’t be complete without Indian street food, and Delhi Darbar is the perfect spot to experience it. The restaurant is known for its chaats, samosas, pani puri, and spicy pav bhaji, all offered at budget-friendly prices.
For those who prefer a heartier meal, their thalis (set meals with rice, chapati, dal, and vegetables) provide incredible value for money. The place is often buzzing with activity, reflecting its popularity among both Indian expats and locals. Delhi Darbar is a must-visit for anyone looking for a taste of India’s street food culture in Abu Dhabi.
6. Man’oushe Street – Quick and Affordable Bites
For a lighter yet satisfying option, Man’oushe Street is the go-to for fresh Lebanese flatbreads. The classic man’ousheh—flatbread topped with zaatar, cheese, or minced meat—costs less than AED 15, making it a budget-friendly favorite for breakfast or lunch.
The restaurant has expanded across Abu Dhabi, offering quick service and consistent quality. Their menu also includes wraps, salads, and juices, catering to health-conscious eaters who still want an affordable meal. It’s the perfect grab-and-go choice when you’re short on time but still want something flavorful.
