Phew! Between school runs, playdates, and trying to keep our homes from looking like toy tornadoes hit them, who has time to think about dining out? But let me tell you, sometimes mama needs a break from the kitchen, am I right?
So, I’ve got some tried-and-true spots in Abu Dhabi that are total lifesavers when it comes to eating out with the kiddos, most that I found on Square Meal UAE:
- Yas Mall Food Court: – A bazillion options = no more “I don’t want that” tantrums- Play area nearby for quick energy burns between bites
- The Cheesecake Factory:
- Massive portions (hello, leftovers!)
- Crayons and paper placemats = instant entertainment
- Pizzeria Olivella:
- Watch the chefs toss dough (free show, anyone?)
- Build-your-own pizza options for picky eaters
- Nolu’s:
- Healthy choices that don’t taste like “healthy choices”
- Outdoor seating for those “I can’t sit still” moments
- Shakespeare and Co.:
- Cosy vibes and comfy seating
- All-day breakfast (because sometimes dinner is pancakes)
- Beirut Sur Mer:
- Lebanese seaside eatery with a beautiful sandy shore
- Great for sharing dishes and letting kids play on the beach
- Oii:
- Modern brasserie near The National Aquarium
- Friendly staff who engage with younger diners
- Paradiso:
- Colourful Mediterranean brasserie
- Fantastic, freshly made pizzas that kids love
- Café Milano:
- Relaxed yet impressive surroundings in the Four Seasons Hotel
- Italian favourites like pizza and pasta
- Al Mrzab:
- Authentic Emirati and Kuwaiti dishes
- Private dining cabins for family meals
- P.F. Chang’s:
- Asian-inspired dishes in a vibrant setting
- Kid-friendly options like sweet and sour chicken and fried rice
- The Terrace on the Corniche:
- Luxurious dining with stunning views of the Arabian Gulf
- Dedicated children’s buffet with favourites like chicken nuggets and pasta
Pro tip: Always pack some emergency snacks and a few quiet activities when you go on holiday. You know, for those “the food is taking forever and we’re on the brink of a meltdown” moments. We’ve all been there!
Now, let’s chat about why Abu Dhabi is such a fantastic place for families to visit. Trust me, it’s not just about the food (though that’s a big plus)!
- Theme Parks Galore: Warner Bros. World is an absolute must-visit. It’s entirely indoor (hello, air conditioning!) and split into different worlds like Bedrock and Gotham City. The rides, interactive entertainment, and character meet-and-greets will keep the kids buzzing with excitement all day.
- Natural Wonders: The Jubail Mangrove Park is a hidden gem. It’s got a short boardwalk that’s perfect for little legs, and the wildlife spotting opportunities are brilliant. There’s even a cute café at the entrance for when you need a pit stop.
- Water Fun: With the scorching heat, water activities are a lifesaver.Yas Waterworld is a hit with families, offering everything from gentle lazy rivers to adrenaline-pumping slides.
- Cultural Experiences: The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is not only breathtakingly beautiful but also a great way to introduce the kids to local culture. Many find it surprisingly child-friendly!
- Desert Adventures: A trip to the desert is a must. Whether it’s dune bashing, camel riding, or just watching the sunset over the dunes, it’s an experience the whole family will remember.
- World-Class Museums: The Louvre Abu Dhabi is a cultural powerhouse that often has family-friendly exhibits and activities.
- Green Spaces: Umm Al Emarat Park is perfect for when the kids need to run off some energy. It’s got playgrounds, a petting zoo, and even a miniature train.
- Indoor Play Areas: For those too-hot days, places like Kidz Mania and Fun Works offer climate-controlled fun with soft play areas, arcade games, and more.
Remember, it’s not about having a picture-perfect holiday (ha! as if!). It’s about making memories, trying new things, and most importantly, creating stories you’ll be telling for years to come!
What are your favourite family spots in Abu Dhabi? Share in the comments, us mamas gotta stick together!
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