How to indulge in the best cuisine and street food in Abu Dhabi – Lip-smacking good

Knowing your way around a holiday destination also includes understanding where to head for all things ‘aromatic,’ ‘flavoursome’ and ‘tasty.’ In UAE’s capital of Abu Dhabi, one will be presented with a plethora of foodie adventures that go beyond stylish and fancy restaurants. In this article, some of the region’s most sought-after street food options are discussed in a way to complement the whims of those hoping to arrive in Abu Dhabi in the near future.

Halawet el-jibn

Commence your cruise through the culinary wonders of Abu Dhabi by sampling the sweet and crunchy sensation referred to as ‘Halawet el-jibn.’ Meaning ‘sweet cheese’ in English, this popular form of street food can be easily had should you make plans to beeline for Al Sultan Sweet or those stalls found along Khalidiya Street. White in appearance and generally chopped into fine bits, Halawet el-jibn is topped off with crushed pistachios which are what bring in the crunchiness to it. While a small plate will cost you nothing more than AED 20, a kilo of Halawet el-jibn can be purchased for AED 70.

Manakish za’atar

On first impression, the sight of a flatbread smeared with a choice of toppings would invariably evoke a nostalgic feeling of the pizza parlour near home. However, upon closer inspection, one will soon be coaxed into tucking into what the locals fondly call ‘Manakish za’atar which is a staple in the Middle East. Should you find yourself in and around Zone 1 (Muroor Road), then you will be led towards a spread of outlets that serve this appetising treat that features a good balance of dried herbs and olive oil at its very core. Ideally speaking, Manakish za’atar is best had fresh from the oven but can also be reheated and consumed as and when one wishes. In terms of places to be zoning in on, consider stopping by Manakish Express where for between AED 6-8, you will be handed one delightful experience to journey along.

Nsaum75, Israeli zaatar manakeesh, CC BY-SA 3.0 

Rgag

For a wafer-thin, whole wheat flour crepe, the Rgag packs one almighty punch from both a texture and taste point of view for you are sure to fall in love with this delicacy that is made with a cross range of ingredients and fillings. While some come packed to the rafters with egg, fish paste, gooey cheese and the sweetest honey you will find, the version prepared at Lgymant & Rgag cannot be looked past at any cost. This is because the Nutella-filled variant found here will be too good to be true at times which will have you struggling to keep out the chocolate from oozing out after every bite.

Shawarma

Seen as a meeting point for some of the finest Middle Eastern ingredients, the Shawarma is unquestionably a ‘must’ when staying in Abu Dhabi. Equipped with this thought, it would be wise for you to include a trip to Hamdan Street. Located within 10.8 km of Anantara Eastern Mangroves Abu Dhabi Hotel which showcases some of the top restaurants in Abu Dhabi where this delicacy can be savoured, when one reaches this section of the city, a host of vendors and their stalls will come into view. Take your pick from lamb-based creations to those filled with tender chicken and above all, be sure to select a type of sauce that suits your palate. If chicken and garlic don’t quite cut it, then, perhaps, a traditional Mexican sauce might fit the bill.

Karak tea

Finding pride of place amongst the beverages that you will discover during your street food adventure, Karak tea is the spicier take on the Indian favourite – Masala chai. Denoting a rich yet creamy concentration, this drink is, by and large, the easiest to find that will only have you pocketing out a mere AED 1-4 per cup. As your set off in search of Karak tea, ensure that you arrive at Bait Al Shay which hands you ample space in which to enjoy the distinct flavours of cardamom and cinnamon in your cuppa.