12 Places to Eat Before (or After) Mamma Mia! at Etihad Arena
If you’re planning to experience the vibrant energy of Mamma Mia! at Etihad Arena, you won’t want to miss out on the delicious dining options available nearby. From waterfront views to cozy cafes, the offerings around Yas Island provide the perfect backdrop for both pre-show meals and post-show celebrations. Here are 12 places to eat before (or after) Mamma Mia! at Etihad Arena, ensuring your evening is filled with flavor and fun.
Asia Asia
This trendy venue features Asiatic decor and an impressive menu filled with all the Asian specialties you crave. With its gorgeous views of the Yas Bay pier, Asia Asia creates a vibrant dining atmosphere ideal for a night out.
Asia Asia, Yas Bay Waterfront, Yas Island, Mon to Thurs 5pm to 1am, Fri 12pm to 1am, Sat 2pm to 1am. Tel: (02) 235 8663, abudhabi.asia-asia.com
Barbossa
For a lively atmosphere filled with vibrant beats, head to Barbossa. This restaurant is renowned for its Mexican and Latin American flavors that complement the pulsating vibe. While they offer some fantastic deals, be sure to plan your visit wisely to catch the show.
Barbossa, Yas Bay Waterfront, Yas Island, Sun to Wed 12pm to 1am, Thurs and Fri 12pm to 3am, Sat 1pm to 3am. Tel: (0)50 185 8068. @barbossa_auh
Bua Thai Café
If you’re looking for a casual yet flavorful option, Bua Thai Café offers a cozy slice of Bangkok right in Yas Bay. Their menu features comforting Thai classics, from fragrant green curries to zesty papaya salads.
Bua Thai Café by Desert Lotus, Yas Bay Waterfront, Yas Island, Sun to Thurs 12pm to 11pm, Fri and Sat 12pm to 12am. Tel: (0)2 575 3158. @buathaicafe
Bushra by Buddha-Bar
For a touch of drama with your meal, Bushra by Buddha-Bar delivers an upscale experience. Savor bold Levantine flavors such as shanklish with avocado purée, succulent kebabs, and grilled octopus in a glamorous lounge setting. Open until 2am, it’s an excellent choice for a post-show meal.
Bushra by Buddha-Bar, Yas Bay Waterfront, Yas Island, daily 1pm to 2am. Tel: (0)50 601 1195. @bushra_abudhabi
Daikan Izakaya
Daikan Izakaya is your go-to for a flavorful burst of Japanese street food. With its industrial-style vibe, this spot offers steaming bowls of ramen, crispy gyoza, and delightful bao buns—ideal for a hearty meal before the spark of the show.
Daikan Izakaya, Yas Bay Waterfront, Yas Island, Sun to Thurs 12pm to 12am. Fri and Sat 12pm to 1am. Tel: (0)58 124 1529. @daikanizakaya_ae
EL&N London
Need a quick bite without missing a moment of the action? EL&N London is one of the shiniest eateries near Etihad Arena and perfect for quick snacks and coffee. The proximity allows you to see patrons entering the venue, ensuring you catch the show without a long wait.
EL&N Cafe, Yas Bay Waterfront, Yas Island, daily 12am to 12pm. Tel: (0)2 883 9395. ae.elnlondon.com
Hanar
For a taste of Mesopotamian cuisine, choose Hanar, where you’ll be pampered with a variety of flavorful dishes. If you decide to dine here, make sure to arrive before 11pm, as the restaurant closes by then.
Hanar, Yas Bay Waterfront, Yas Island, Mon to Fri 5pm to 11pm, Sat 2pm to 11pm and Sun 12pm to 11pm. Tel: (0)2 675 1641. @hanar_restaurant
McCafferty’s
A beloved local favorite, McCafferty’s at the Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island offers a variety of beverages from hops to cocktails, served in a relaxed setting that will surely satisfy.
McCafferty’s, Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island, 9am to 8pm daily. @mccaffertysyas
NURI Grill & Bar
As a recipient of the dubai-lifestyle.ae award for Favourite Fine Dining Asian Restaurant, NURI Grill & Bar is a top-notch choice for steak lovers. The space also features private karaoke rooms—great for warming up your voice for those sing-along moments during Mamma Mia!
NURI Grill & Bar, Yas Bay Waterfront, Yas Island, Sun to Thurs 12pm to 12am, Fri and Sat 12pm to 1am. Tel: (0)54 211 5151. @nurigrillbar
Paradiso
Paradiso is a culinary collaboration between celebrated French chef Pierre Gagnaire and Nicole Rubi of La Petite Maison. Delight in Mediterranean dishes ranging from sophisticated snails to roasted poussin. Don’t forget to snap a picture with the stylish Vespa parked at the entrance!
Paradiso, Yas Bay Waterfront, Yas Island, Sun to Thurs 12pm to 11pm, Fri and Sat 12pm to 1am. Tel: (050) 437 2869. @paradisoabudhabi
Siddharta Lounge by Buddha-Bar
Located on a rooftop with stunning views of Yas Bay, Siddharta Lounge offers a tapas-style menu that fuses Mediterranean and Asian flavors, perfect for not feeling too full during the performance. After the show, it’s an excellent spot to unwind with a refreshing cocktail.
Siddharta Lounge by Buddha-Bar, Yas Bay Waterfront, Yas Island, Sun to Thurs 5pm to 2am, Fri and Sat 5pm to 3am. Tel: (0)50 601 1194. @siddhartalounge_abudhabi
The Lighthouse Restaurant and Bar
This Mediterranean spot exudes a warm, inviting atmosphere, making it the perfect pre-performance retreat. Enjoy flatbreads, seafood, and signature cocktails, all while taking in the waterfront views.
The Lighthouse Restaurant & Bar, Yas Bay Waterfront, Yas Island, Sun to Thurs 8am to 12am, Fri and Sat 8am to 1am. Tel: (0)2 236 7831, @thelighthouse_abudhabi
Whether you choose to dine before or after Mamma Mia! at Etihad Arena, the diverse culinary landscape of Yas Island guarantees a memorable experience filled with great food and lively ambiance.