Best Italian Restaurants in Abu Dhabi 2026

Italian Dining in Abu Dhabi: A City That Takes Pasta Seriously

Abu Dhabi's dining scene has matured into one of the most sophisticated in the Middle East, and nowhere is this more apparent than in its Italian restaurant offering. From neighbourhood trattorias to upscale fine dining, the capital now hosts a range of Italian venues that would satisfy even the most discerning Roman. But if you're looking for the complete Italian experience — exceptional food, elegant atmosphere, and impeccable service — the shortlist is shorter than you might think. For a deeper look at what sets Italian dining apart in the capital, read our dedicated guide to Italian restaurants in Abu Dhabi.

What Makes a Great Italian Restaurant?

True Italian cuisine is built on restraint and quality. The best dishes use the fewest ingredients, each one sourced with care. Authenticity matters: pasta should be made fresh, seafood should arrive daily, and the wine list should reflect the diversity of Italy's 20 wine regions. Beyond the food, great Italian dining is about warmth — the kind of hospitality that makes you feel like a guest in someone's home, even when that home happens to have a Michelin listing.

Novikov Abu Dhabi — Italian Fine Dining at The Galleria

At the heart of Al Maryah Island, Novikov Abu Dhabi has established itself as the city's definitive address for Italian restaurant Abu Dhabi dining. Under Head Chef Alberto Dorigo, the kitchen brings the flavours of coastal Italy to life with a menu that celebrates both tradition and refinement.

Signature dishes include hand-rolled pasta with slow-braised sauces, wood-fired seafood, and a dessert selection that rotates with the seasons. The wine cellar features an extensive Italian selection, with sommeliers on hand to guide each pairing. The interior — all warm lighting, marble, and rich textures — creates an atmosphere that is simultaneously glamorous and intimate.

Novikov is listed in the Michelin Guide, a distinction that speaks to the consistency and quality that guests experience every visit.

The Galleria Al Maryah Island: Abu Dhabi's Premier Dining Destination

Location matters in fine dining, and Novikov's setting within The Galleria Al Maryah Island places it at the centre of Abu Dhabi's most prestigious lifestyle destination. The waterfront setting provides a backdrop that few restaurants in the city can match, making it as much a destination for the view as for the food.

Private Dining & Special Occasions

For corporate dinners, celebrations, or intimate gatherings, Novikov offers private dining arrangements tailored to your occasion. The team handles everything from bespoke menus to room setup, ensuring that every detail reflects the significance of the event.

How to Book

Reservations at Novikov Abu Dhabi are available through SevenRooms. Given consistent demand, booking in advance is strongly recommended, particularly for weekend evenings and special occasions.

Final Verdict

For those seeking the best Italian restaurant in Abu Dhabi, Novikov delivers on every dimension: exceptional food rooted in Italian tradition, an extraordinary setting, and service that elevates the entire experience. It is, simply, the benchmark.