Punjab Grill

The story

Punjab Grill Abu Dhabi – Michelin-Recognised Indian Fine Dining at The Ritz-Carlton

A Royal Dining Experience in Abu Dhabi

At Punjab Grill, the spirit of India’s royal kitchens finds a contemporary home. Set within The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal, this fine-dining destination draws inspiration from the era of Maharaja Ranjit Singh—the Lion of Punjab—whose emblem, the lion head, remains the restaurant’s proud symbol. The cuisine is a thoughtful celebration of India’s culinary heritage, reimagined with modern sophistication.

The restaurant has earned a place in the Michelin Guide for four consecutive years (2023–2026), a recognition that speaks to its consistency and high standards. It has also been featured in the Gault & Millau guide and named Best Indian Restaurant in Abu Dhabi at the FACT Dining Awards in 2025. These accolades reflect a kitchen that respects tradition while embracing innovation.

The Space and the Story

Punjab Grill’s interiors are as layered as its menu. The design blends Indian art and motifs with a lush, forest-inspired aesthetic—think greenery-clad walls, cascading ivy, and leaf-shaped chandeliers that cast soft patterns across the room. Over 80% of the furniture has been repurposed, and the walls feature eco-friendly, custom-made wallpapers. Every detail, from the intimate Lotus Bar to the vibrant Peacock House, tells a story of culture, craftsmanship, and contemporary luxury.

The culinary philosophy is anchored in three principles: authenticity, innovation, and excellence. The menu draws from India’s diverse regional traditions—from the earthy flavours of the North to the coastal delicacies of the South—and reinterprets them with precision. Signature kebabs, slow-cooked curries, delicate chaat, and artisanal desserts are all crafted with responsibly sourced ingredients and hand-ground masalas.

What to Expect

Executive Chef Sandeep Ail leads the kitchen, bringing signature dishes and regional specialties that are new to the UAE. The menu includes an à la carte selection, a business lunch, and The Great Indian Brunch, alongside bespoke tasting menus and private dining experiences for groups of 8 to 10. Guests can also book the Chef’s Table for a more immersive encounter with Indian gastronomy.

Punjab Grill offers a setting where Indian cuisine is both honoured and evolved—a place where the past informs the present, and every dish is a deliberate, flavourful statement.