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Street Bites with Shaq
You read it right, folks. Fifteen-time NBA all-star, and four-time NBA champion, Shaquille O’Neal took his taste buds on tour all around the streets of Abu Dhabi. The Big Man had some big expectations - and these street foods did not disappoint!
Want to go on your own Abu Dhabi street bites tour? Check out all the spots Shaq hit up below!
Shaq’s Abu Dhabi street food adventure takes a tasty turn at the Al Dhafra restaurant, where he gets his hands on the legendary ghouzi. It’s a local favourite dish, and Shaq’s all in—no fuss, just pure enjoyment of this urban classic. Watch as he kicks back and dives into the flavours that make ghouzi a must-try in Abu Dhabi.
Stay tuned as Shaq continues his search for legendary street bites.
Shaq's Favourite Spots
Beit Al Khetyar
The street food scene in Abu Dhabi left such an impression that Shaq wanted to leave us a not-so-little gift to remember him by. And so, in one of Abu Dhabi’s most beloved shawarma spots, the Shaqwarma was born. Serving nothing but the freshest Lebanese and Jordanian food, Beit Al Khetyar is a local favourite for a reason. Check it out and try the limited-edition Shaqwarma while you can!
Luqaimat & Chebab
A pillar of Abu Dhabi street food, Luqaimat & Chebab was a definite must on Shaq’s list. Unsurprisingly, it was love at first bite. One luqaimat drizzled with date syrup, coupled with a heartwarming sip of gahwa, had the champ ordering seconds, thirds, and even more to go. If you’re after authentic Emirati and Khaleeji flavours too, this Abu Dhabi cornerstone can’t be missed!
Mo’s Joint
This local success story is sure to satisfy even the biggest of burger cravings. Just ask Shaq! Mo’s Joint is making a name for itself in the Abu Dhabi burger scene thanks to its high-quality patties and delicious sauces. Catering to all kinds of foodies, as well as those with allergies, Mo's got something for everyone. Even NBA champions! Shaq’s order: Mo’s Classic Burger with special Abu Dhabi sauce.
Al Dhafra Restaurant
No food tour of Abu Dhabi is complete without a visit to Al Dhafra, the longstanding authentic Emirati eatery. Established in 1993, Al Dhafra is no stranger to Abu Dhabi food connoisseurs. This iconic Emirati establishment is a go-to for flavourful gatherings. When it came to sharing a hearty serving of ghouzi with friends, Shaq looked no further - and neither should you!
India Palace
Combining world-class cuisine with authentic Indian heritage, India Palace offers more than just meals but lifelong memories too. It’s also home to what Shaq calls “the GOAT” of all biryani dishes - their butter chicken biryani. Top off your meal with a cup of steaming masala chai, just the way Shaq likes it.
Al Sultan Sweets
Boxes of Al Sultan Sweets have found their way into the homes of UAE residents for decades. No doubt it has earned its place on every sweet tooth’s bucket list, including Shaq’s. His personal favourite? The mixed baklawa box. When it comes to satisfying a Shaq-sized need for sweets, one baklawa is never enough.
Seashell
Chances are you’ve seen a Seashell branch around Abu Dhabi before. This much-loved cafeteria is hard to miss, and thankfully so! Thanks to its almost endless variety of treats, Shaq adds a Seashell pitstop to every visit. Try his usual, the iconic Abood Special Juice, and you can thank us later.
Bu Tafish
Next time you’re in the mood for some seafood, do as Shaq does and head straight to Bu Tafish for a fresh sea-to-table dining experience. Serving the UAE since 1968, Bu Tafish has perfectly honed its seafood menu for all palettes and appetites. A tip from Shaq: get the lobster. You won’t regret it.