Abu Dhabi is known for its vibrant mix of cultures, and nowhere is that more obvious than in its food scene. Among the many international cuisines gaining popularity in the capital, Korean food stands out for its bold flavors, rich traditions, and interactive dining style.
Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just starting to branch out from your usual takeout options, now is the perfect time to explore Korean food in Abu Dhabi. From sizzling grilled meats to spicy stews and colorful rice bowls, Korean cuisine offers something for every palate.
Korean Cuisine: More Than Just a Trend
While Korean food has long been popular in places like the US, Australia, and Southeast Asia, it’s quickly gaining traction in the UAE — thanks in part to the global rise of Korean pop culture. With K-dramas, K-pop, and Korean beauty taking the world by storm, many people are discovering Korean cuisine as a natural next step.
But this isn’t just a passing trend. Korean food has a strong foundation built on centuries-old culinary traditions that emphasize balance, nutrition, and communal dining. In Abu Dhabi, local chefs and restaurateurs are embracing those values while also tailoring dishes to suit the diverse tastes of the city’s residents.
What Makes Korean Food Special?
Korean meals are known for their variety and contrast — spicy and mild, hot and cold, crunchy and soft. Here are a few staples you’ll likely encounter at any Korean restaurant:
- Kimchi – Fermented vegetables, usually cabbage or radish, that add a tangy, spicy kick to any meal
- Bulgogi – Thinly sliced marinated beef, often grilled or stir-fried
- Bibimbap – A rice bowl topped with vegetables, egg, meat, and gochujang (spicy red chili paste)
- Tteokbokki – Soft rice cakes in a fiery red sauce, often served as street food
- Samgyetang – A nourishing ginseng chicken soup, traditionally eaten in the summer
But perhaps one of the most beloved dishes — especially for first-timers — is samgyupsal.
Why You Should Try Samgyupsal in Abu Dhabi
Samgyupsal, or Korean-style grilled pork belly, is one of Korea’s most iconic dishes. It’s typically served raw and cooked at the table over a built-in grill, accompanied by dipping sauces, garlic, green chili, and leafy greens for wrapping.
If you’ve never tried it before, it’s more than just a meal — it’s an experience. You get to cook the meat to your liking, build your own wraps (ssam), and enjoy the relaxed, social atmosphere that comes with this style of dining.
Many restaurants now offer the chance to try samgyupsal in Abu Dhabi, with options for beef and chicken as well, making it accessible to all dietary preferences. Whether you go with a group of friends or on a casual date night, samgyupsal is one of those dishes that turns dinner into a fun event.
Where to Go for Korean Food in Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi is home to several authentic Korean restaurants, many of which are tucked away in cozy corners of the city — from the backstreets of Tourist Club Area to more modern settings in places like Al Reem Island or Khalifa City. A few things to look for when choosing a place:
- Table grills – Essential for samgyupsal and other barbecue dishes
- Banchan variety – These small side dishes are a great way to sample more flavors
- Authentic ingredients – Good Korean restaurants will use gochujang, doenjang (fermented soybean paste), and Korean sesame oil for that true flavor
Some places even offer set menus that include barbecue, soup, rice, and banchan — perfect for first-timers looking to get a full Korean dining experience without guessing what to order.
Korean Food for Every Mood
What’s great about Korean cuisine is its range. You can enjoy a quick bowl of spicy ramen for lunch, sit down for an elaborate barbecue dinner, or pick up kimbap (Korean-style sushi rolls) for a light snack.
Feeling under the weather? A bowl of kimchi jjigae (kimchi stew) or soondubu jjigae (soft tofu stew) might be just the comfort food you need. Craving something indulgent? Tteokbokki with cheese will hit the spot.
There’s also a growing interest in Korean desserts in Abu Dhabi — like bingsu, a fluffy shaved ice treat topped with fruits, red beans, or matcha syrup.
Final Thoughts
The next time you’re planning a meal out, skip the usual options and consider something new. Korean cuisine offers more than just food — it brings a sense of community, cultural discovery, and a whole lot of flavor.
Whether you’re a curious newcomer or a seasoned Korean food lover, there’s no better time to explore Korean food. From classic dishes like bibimbap and kimchi jjigae to the fun of grilling your own meat at the table, the city’s growing number of Korean restaurants offers a little taste of Seoul right here in the UAE.
So go ahead — grab some chopsticks, gather your friends, and try samgyupsal for a dining experience that’s as delicious as it is memorable.
