Make a meal of it before the first bell rings at UFC Fight Night

Whether you’re after a quick bite before the action or a post-fight dinner, Yas Bay Waterfront is packed with great restaurants just a short walk from Etihad Arena. From sushi and steaks to Mexican feasts and waterfront cocktails, here are the best restaurants to book before UFC Fight Night Abu Dhabi

Asia Asia

Stylish interiors, a menu packed with Asian favourites and stunning views over Yas Bay make Asia Asia a popular choice before an event at Etihad Arena. Expect everything from sushi and dim sum to flavour-packed curries and signature cocktails.

Where: Asia Asia, Yas Bay Waterfront, Yas Island
When: Mon to Thurs 5pm to 1am, Fri 12pm to 1am, Sat 2pm to 1am
Contact: (02) 235 8663

Barbossa

Bringing vibrant Mexican and Latin American flavours to Yas Bay, Barbossa is known for its lively atmosphere, colourful interiors and excellent waterfront location. It’s a great spot to start your evening before heading over to Etihad Arena.

Where: Barbossa, Yas Bay Waterfront, Yas Island
When: Sun to Wed 12pm to 1am, Thurs and Fri 12pm to 3am, Sat 1pm to 3am
Contact: (050) 185 8068

Bua Thai Café

For something casual yet packed with flavour, Bua Thai Café serves authentic Thai dishes in a relaxed setting. Expect fragrant curries, fresh salads and classic Thai comfort food just moments from the arena.

Where: Bua Thai Café by Desert Lotus, Yas Bay Waterfront, Yas Island
When: Sun to Thurs 12pm to 11pm, Fri and Sat 12pm to 12am
Contact: (02) 575 3158

Bushra by Buddha-Bar

Bushra by Buddha-Bar combines elegant surroundings with bold Levantine flavours. From grilled meats and seafood to sharing plates and signature cocktails, it’s a stylish choice before or after an event.

Where: Bushra by Buddha-Bar, Yas Bay Waterfront, Yas Island
When: Daily 1pm to 2am
Contact: (050) 601 1195

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Daikan Izakaya

This contemporary Japanese eatery serves ramen, bao buns, sushi and small plates in a cool industrial-inspired setting. Perfect if you’re looking for a quick and satisfying meal before the show.

Where: Daikan Izakaya, Yas Bay Waterfront, Yas Island
When: Sun to Thurs 12pm to 12am, Fri and Sat 12pm to 1am
Contact: (058) 124 1529

EL&N London

One of Yas Bay’s most Instagrammable cafés, EL&N London is ideal for coffee, cakes, light bites and a relaxed pre-event catch-up. Its location near Etihad Arena makes it a convenient stop before heading inside.

Where: EL&N London, Yas Bay Waterfront, Yas Island
When: Daily, 8am to 12am
Contact: (02) 883 9395

Hanar

Specialising in Mesopotamian cuisine, Hanar offers a menu filled with rich flavours and traditional dishes. It’s a great option for those looking to try something a little different before an event.

Where: Hanar, Yas Bay Waterfront, Yas Island
When: Mon to Fri 5pm to 11pm, Sat 2pm to 11pm, Sun 12pm to 11pm
Contact: (02) 675 1641

Hunter & Barrel

Known for its premium steaks, burgers and fire-grilled dishes, Hunter & Barrel is a favourite for hearty meals. The spacious restaurant and waterfront setting make it ideal for groups heading to Etihad Arena.

Where: Hunter & Barrel, The Pier, Yas Bay Waterfront
When: Daily 11am to 1am
Contact: (02) 886 8299

McCafferty’s

Located at Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island, McCafferty’s is a lively Irish pub serving classic comfort food, drinks and live sports. It’s a great choice for a casual meal and drinks before the event starts.

Where: McCafferty’s, Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island
When: Daily, 9am to late
Contact: (058) 598 3623

NURI Grill & Bar

This award-winning Korean steakhouse offers premium cuts, Korean-inspired dishes and a sophisticated dining experience. Ideal if you’re looking to elevate your evening before the show.

Where: NURI Grill & Bar, Yas Bay Waterfront, Yas Island
When: Sun to Thurs 12pm to 12am, Fri and Sat 12pm to 1am
Contact: (054) 211 5151

Paradiso

A partnership between renowned chef Pierre Gagnaire and restaurateur Nicole Rubi, Paradiso serves Mediterranean-inspired dishes in a stylish waterfront setting. Expect pizzas, pasta, seafood and plenty of photo opportunities.

Where: Paradiso, Yas Bay Waterfront, Yas Island
When: Sun to Thurs 12pm to 11pm, Fri and Sat 12pm to 1am
Contact: (050) 437 2869

Siddharta Lounge by Buddha-Bar

Offering panoramic views across Yas Bay, Siddharta Lounge serves Mediterranean and Asian-inspired sharing plates alongside creative cocktails. A great option for sunset drinks before an event.

Where: Siddharta Lounge by Buddha-Bar, Yas Bay Waterfront, Yas Island
When: Sun to Thurs 5pm to 2am, Fri and Sat 5pm to 3am
Contact: (050) 601 1194

The Lighthouse Restaurant & Bar

With a relaxed waterfront setting and Mediterranean-inspired menu, The Lighthouse is perfect for a leisurely meal before heading to Etihad Arena. Expect fresh seafood, flatbreads and signature drinks.

Where: The Lighthouse Restaurant & Bar, Yas Bay Waterfront, Yas Island
When: Sun to Thurs 8am to 12am, Fri and Sat 8am to 1am
Contact: (02) 236 7831