8 places to eat at Abu Dhabi’s Hudayriyat Island: from a cupcake ATM to Chips Oman ice cream

Is this the capital’s new foodie destination?

Abu Dhabi's Hudayriat Island is home to a cupcake ATM. All pictures by Nilanjana Gupta for The National

The ATM dispenses flavours such as pistachio, Nutella, saffron, blueberry, Lotus and red velvet.

Tourist Katerina Shulikina tries out the pistachio Nutella cupcake.

Kais Touihri, marketing manager of the Cupcake ATM, with a coconut cupcake.

Prices for the cupcakes start at Dh19.

Ethan Deon Seniel, with his mother Christy, tries the red velvet cupcake.

The Cupcake ATM on Hudayriyat Island is open 24 hours a day.

Since its launch a year ago, Hudayriyat Island has become a must-visit destination in Abu Dhabi.

Home to Circuit X, the hot spot has already proved itself a haven for thrill-seekers and adrenalin junkies. But, if you've worked up an appetite after all that adventure, there are also plenty of places to grab a bite to eat.

Here are some cool concepts to check out at the waterfront location:

1. Cupcake ATM

Did you know that Hudayriyat Island is home to a 24-hour cupcake ATM? The quirky pastel-pink dispenser sits opposite Shrimp Pot and offers a number of flavours such as pistachio, Nutella, saffron, blueberry, Lotus and red velvet. All you have to do is select the one you want, make the payment, and your cupcake will arrive in a packaged box.

Open 24 hours daily; from Dh22 for a cupcake; instagram.com/cupcake_atm

2. Shrimp Pot

This is for those who fancy fresh, no-nonsense seafood with their water views. Choose between shrimp, mussels, lobster, crab and octopus (or go for the popular mixed option), choose your sauce, and your bucket of seafood will be served right to your table. Put on the gloves you’ve been provided and don’t be afraid to make a mess.

Open daily, noon-1.30am; 02 441 1842; instagram.com/shrimppot.uae 

3. Muncheeze

This restaurant, which is located next to the skate park, was founded with the idea of revolutionising the humble American grilled cheese sandwich – with gourmet options such as the Angus beef steak and Mac n Cheese available. However, it has since acquired quite a reputation for its hearty burgers and an extensive breakfast menu. The portions are generous and there are beach views to boot.

Open daily, 11am-3am; 050 411 5459;  muncheeze.ae

4. Projeto Acai

Here, guests can customise hearty acai bowls or choose between signature combinations. There are also wraps, poke bowls, salads, smoothies and breakfast items, making this a pit stop for any time of the day. The dishes are healthy and there are plenty of options for vegans.

Open daily, 8am-midnight; projetoacai.com

5. DRVN Coffee

The place has been garnering attention for its quirky interiors, which showcase vintage cars or “automotive art”, while the outside seating areas have some excellent beach views. On the must-try list are the artisanal coffees and Neapolitan pizzas. There are also quite a few breakfast options for a lazy weekend morning.

Open daily, 6pm-3am; instagram.com/drvn_coffee

6. Al Shader Restaurant and Grill

Another seafood restaurant that has opened up at the destination, Al Shader focuses on grilled, seared or batter-fried delicacies. The menu is largely Arabic (there are mezze items and tagines) and guests can also choose fresh fish or special dishes such as the mixed calamari or shrimp, served with rice and choice of sauce.

Open daily, 11am-11pm; 02 641 4040

7. Chimney’s Roll House

Those looking for something different can head to this cafe which specialises in chimney rolls, the popular Hungarian street food that's crunchy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. The venue sells a number of savoury options while sweet Chimney cakes can be found in several flavours including Bounty, Oreo and Kinder.

Open daily, noon-1.30am; 02 550 0996; instagram.com/chimneysrollhouse_ad

8. Drilled

You can customise a variety of ingredients to create the ice cream of your dreams at this speciality dessert spot. Guests can choose an ice cream base, crunch and toppings, or try one of their signatures. There are also some pretty unique pairings available such as ice cream with Chips Oman and Flamin' Hot Cheetos option. The spot also specialises in coffee, so you can pick up a lavender latte, "Drilled" latte or cold pistachio latte ahead of a walk on the beach.

Open daily, 10am-midnight; instagram.com/drilled.ae

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