Meylas

The story

Meylas Abu Dhabi - Authentic Emirati Cuisine at Al Raha Beach | Michelin Recommended

A Taste of Emirati Tradition

Meylas, a Michelin Recommended restaurant in Khalifah A City, brings the authentic flavours of the Emirates to Al Raha Beach in Abu Dhabi. The restaurant was born from founder Shaikha Al Kaabi’s deep love for her country’s civilisation and the rich food culture that permeates Emirati life. Inspired by her mother, she set out to introduce the world to the art of genuine Emirati cuisine.

The restaurant’s name, “Meylas,” is the Emirati Arabic word for “majlis” – the traditional gathering space where family and friends come together. This spirit of hospitality is woven into every aspect of the experience. Shaikha drew from the UAE’s heritage to design the space, creating an atmosphere that feels both rooted in tradition and warmly welcoming.

The Menu: From Regag to Jireesh

Every dish at Meylas carries a memory of the past, using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The menu is a celebration of Emirati cooking, offering a journey through familiar and lesser-known classics. Start with a Fwala (all-day breakfast), featuring delicate regag (thin traditional bread) served with cheese, egg, or chicken, or try the sweet Balaleet – saffron and cardamom-scented vermicelli with fried scrambled eggs.

For mains, the Widam section highlights slow-cooked staples. The Machoos Dyay is a fragrant rice dish slowly simmered in chicken stock and traditional spices. Samaj Mashwi offers fresh charcoal-grilled fish served with white rice and local samen (clarified butter). Hearty Saloona (vegetable stew) is available with chicken or lamb, while Jireesh presents a comforting mash of rice and chicken. Desserts are equally authentic, including Khabees (a traditional sweet made with browned flour, cardamom, saffron, and local ghee) and Luqaimat (crispy fried dumplings drizzled with date molasses).

A Michelin-Recognised Destination

Earning a place in the Michelin guide, Meylas stands out for its unwavering commitment to authentic Emirati cuisine. It is a place where the flavours of the UAE are presented with integrity and pride, offering a genuine taste of the country’s culinary heritage in a setting designed for shared meals and lasting memories.