Eating out is something we take very, very seriously.
When we take time out to spend our hard earned cash and enjoy time with our pals and loved ones over dinner, we want to be sure it’s at one of the best restaurants in Bahrain.
After all, there are few things less maddenning than a bad meal, right?
So, we’ve scoured the city to find out exactly where the best restaurants and cafés in Bahrain are.
These are the places you want to make a reservation at now.
You might like: Complete guide to brunch in Bahrain
And with all manner of cuisines – from Japanese and Mexican to Italian and Indian – and all types of dining styles covered, we’re sure there will be at least a few to tickle your tastebuds.
What are you waiting for?
These are the best restaurants in Bahrain right now:
Banu
Brightly coloured plates of authentic packed-with-flavour Persian cuisine are what keep people coming back to Banu, one of the best restaurants in Bahrain.
Think soups, salads, stews and delicately grilled meats served up with perfectly cooked saffron rice topped with lashings of butter and a smattering of pomegranate seeds. Chelo kebabs are a must-order and if there’s a group of you, go for the Banu Tray and you’ll get to try pretty much everything – and it’s all good and inherently Persian (no hummus here, people).
Don’t forget to leave room for the tahchin, an Iranian upside-down cake made with lamb shank meat or chicken, layered with saffron rice and mixed with yoghurt, egg, barberries and fried onion.
Unlicensed. Hala Plaza, Bu Ghazal Manama, banubh.com (1771 5654).
Bushido by Buddha-Bar
Looking to follow the way of the warrior? A concept inspired by the mysticism of Japan, Bushido by Buddha-Bar is a chic, trendy lounge and restaurant situated in the heart of Seef District.
Bushido brings authentic Japanese and Pan Asian dining experiences fused with signature Buddha-Bar flavours. When on the search for the best restaurants in Bahrain, best follow the samurai’s path.
Licensed. Sat-Wed 12pm-2am, Thu 12pm-2.30am, Fri 12.30pm-2.30am. Seef District bushido.com.bh (1758 3555).
Byblos
When it comes to the best restaurants in Bahrain, one that is set by the beach would always be top choice. Enter: Byblos at Four Seasons.
This stunning beachfront Lebanese restaurant draws inspiration from the ancient city of Byblos from its interiors to the dishes served on your plate.
For a taste of authentic Lebanese flavours, try their signature dishes including the mixed mezze platter, mixed grill, manakish, salmon harra, lamb shank ouzi, and finish off with their signature dessert brownies with carob molasses.
Licensed. Tue-Sun 6pm-12am. Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay. @fsbahrain (1711 5000).
Cantina Kahlo
A mishmash of Mexican art, bright turquoise walls, red, green and blue soft furnishings and monochrome flooring, Cantina Kahlo sets the scene for a vibrant dining experience from the moment you enter.
Sample everything from street food and ceviche to tacos and smoky, charcoaled grills, all paired with a wide range of signature drinks. With live music performances too, a trip here will quickly make you realise why it’s considered as one of the best restaurants in Bahrain. Plus, it makes for a fun night out whatever the occasion.
Licensed. The Ritz-Carlton Bahrain, Al Seef, Manama, ritzcarlton.com (1758 6410).
Cantine
Not every meal out needs to involve an indulgent, calorie-laden feast. Cantine is one of the best restaurants in Bahrain focusing on nourishing meals with fresh ingredients, and options for all sorts of dietary requirements, all served up in a light, airy space in Al Liwan.
The summer rolls with peanut sauce are a menu classic and there are plenty of sweet treats, too. A new branch has just opened at The Courtyard Seef, meaning it’s even easier to try it out.
Unlicensed. @cantinebh The Courtyard (1769 5655) Al Liwan (1769 5444).
Cipriani
It’s a name we all know, and it’s now among the best restaurants in Bahrain. Renowned for great Italian food and even greater glamour, Cipriani at the Marassi beach complex is no exception.
As well as an intimate bar and restaurant, the venue has its own private pool and beach, set to open soon, and two additional entertainment and dining spaces – the Socialista lounge and Jazz Café.
Dishes are beautifully presented (hello, fennel and avocado salad with shaved Parmesan) and you absolutely have to save room for dessert (lemon meringue tart, no question).
Licensed. Marassi Al Bahrain, cipriani.com (1700 3300).
Circa Restaurant and Lounge
Inspired by the vibrant, daring and lively essence of Latin American cuisine fused with the pulsating vibe of Miami, Circa Restaurant and Lounge is bold from the flavors in its dishes to the rhythms in the background.
Popular for its Friday brunch and Taco Tuesday, you can expect the same quality dishes, mixed drinks, and entertainment throughout the week.
Licensed. Palmyard Hotel @circarestaurant (3992 7872).
Clay
Fans of Nikkei cuisine would be wise to head to Clay, one of the best restaurants in Bahrain specialising in this fusion of Japanese and Peruvian ingredients and cooking styles.
You’ll enjoy views of the open kitchen from elaborate booths and lavishly presented plates of sushi, ceviche, seafood and more. Every dish begs to be captured for the ‘gram, put it that way.
Plus, you can begin or end your evening in The Ash Lounge, Clay’s equally stunning dedicated bar. Definitely one to add to your list when on the search for the best restaurants in Bahrain.
Licensed. The Terminal, Adliya, claybahrain.com (1755 4545).
Coco’s
Notorious for always (we mean always) being fully occupied with a long queue extending to the streets of Block 338 every day, it’s no surprise that Coco’s is considered as one the best restaurants in Bahrain.
They’ve opened up a new branch in Juffair Square, which seems to have helped with the crowd. Coco’s menu features modern spins on international dishes from American cuisine, to Italian, to Mediterranean, and more.
Unlicensed. Adliya and Juffair Square @cocoscafebahrain (1771 2288).
CUT by Wolfgang Puck
If you need a reason to check out the luxurious Four Seasons Bahrain Bay, make sure it’s with a reservation at CUT. When on the search for the best restaurants in Bahrain, this one would always make the list.
Whether you’re there for the dramatic entrance and striking views over the hotel’s pool and gardens, or the exquisite steaks prepared theatrically in the open kitchen, it’ll make for a dinner to remember.
There’s everything from USDA Prime to Japanese Wagyu, and add-ons to savour such as confit garlic and Roquefort blue cheese. Go on, live a little.
Licensed. Four Seasons Bahrain Bay, Manama wolfgangpuck.com (1711 5044).
Em Sherif Sea Café
Set in the Avenues Mall with outdoor seating too, this is one of the best restaurants in Bahrain for when you’re craving Lebanese cuisine with a seafood leaning.
From the delicate grilled baby calamari to a generous plating of lobster pasta, and the simply stunning sea bream ceviche, the food here will have you coming back again and again.
And with its sister restaurant in Dubai picking up Lebanese Restaurant of the Year in the Time Out Dubai Restaurant Awards, you know you’re in good company.
Unlicensed. The Avenues Mall, Manama @emsherifseacafe.bh (7710 0777).
Fusions by Tala
Chef Tala Bashmi’s food is a revelation, celebrated in awards worldwide for its modern reinventions of Bahraini classics.
That food envy will be well and truly piqued as you see plates come out of the kitchen, so make things easy for yourself and opt for the eight-course tasting menu.
Then book straight in again so you can taste everything else. This is one of the best restaurants in Bahrain for very good reason.
Licensed. The Gulf Hotel, Adliyah @fusionsbytala (1774 6427).
Gyuto
Gyuto, which translates to “cow blade” is a term used for a Japanese-style chef’s knife. Their menu brings a mix of elevated Japanese classics and signature creations to Al Liwan in Hamala.
Following the footsteps of its sister restaurant, Wakame Dubai, Gyuto serves up a delectable array of Japanese favourites with a modern twist from wagyu truffles, ceviches, sashimis and nigiris, and more.
Unlicensed. Al Liwan, Hamala gyuto.me (7799 9444).
Hopscotch
This family-run bakery and cafe prides itself on empowering female-led businesses, with coffee beans sourced from, Grind and a mainly female team of baristas. The pride in its work extends across all the delightful baked goods, pastries and sandwiches, with literally everything on the menu set to make you salivate.
If you’re a savoury fan, opt for the beef bacon, egg and cheese on a homemade pretzel bun and if you’re sweet-toothed, bite into the vanilla bean sponge with saffron mango & passion fruit jam.
Unlicensed. Saar, @hopscotch.bh (1769 1124).
Homa
From husband and wife team Ebrahim Ali and Hanieh Mirbaha comes Homa, a homage to Persian culture and Iranian food.
Everything here is sprinkled with their love and attention, with recipes passed down through their families and cooked with finesse.
Dishes are designed to be shared and enjoyed with your own family and friends, so gather the gang and head here for a feast that’ll get you all talking. In the cooler months, make a beeline for the terrace and soak up the serenity of the unfettered views.
Unlicensed. Janabiyah @homabahrain (1771 5454).
La Fontaine
Feeling like you need a dose of culture? Dine at La Fontaine, the fine dining restaurant at La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art for a truly original experience.
Even the cutlery has been designed specifically for the restaurant. It boasts a vast terrace seating 250 guests and space for another 100 inside, but with the central fountain, still manages a tranquil air.
The food has Mediterranean and Italian influences, as well as a few Asian dishes, which means there’s something to please even the least artistic among you.
Licensed. Hoora @lafontaineartcentre.net (1723 0123).
La Table Krug by Y
Don’t be fooled by this rather small, neat-looking restaurant. La Table Krug by Y, helmed by chef Yann Bernard Lejard, is a powerhouse of fine and experimental dining. Or, ‘experimen-cal’ as Lejard might say.
You’ll dine on an ever-changing eight menu of intricately crafted dishes, all of which you’ll want to meticulously photograph before sampling.
If you want something a little more accessible, try out Go Bistro by La Table Krug instead. Both are among the best restaurants in Bahrain.
Licensed. The Ritz-Carlton Bahrain, Al Seef, Manama, ritz-carlton.com (1758 6699).
Lanterns
Another crowd favourite with several branches spread across the Kingdom, Lanterns has become one of the best restaurants in Bahrain for authentic Indian cuisine with specialties derived from the regions of Punjab and the Northern India.
Next time you’re craving spiced aromatic curries or flavourful biryanis, you have the main Adliya branch along with others in Budaiya, Riffa, and Amwaj to choose from – each with special features of its own.
Block 338, Adliya lanternsrestaurant.com (1724 6777).
M by Mirai
This cool, casual Japanese restaurant and matcha bar revolves around a robata open kitchen and offers all manner of small plates to share – think gyoza, tempura, wanton, bao, sushi, maki, noodles and more.
It may not be licensed, but that doesn’t mean drinks are an after-thought. Fine teas are sourced from Japan, mocktails are created by a world-class mixologist and fresh fruits, herbs and spices take centre stage.
It’s definitely among the best restaurants in Bahrain.
Unlicensed. Al Aali Mall, Seef @mbymirai (1778 3030).
Manos
This 20-year old family-run bistro is still one of the best restaurants in Bahrain. Specialising in Greek food and well known for its steaks, the ethos is all about bringing together family and friends to share delicious mezze, seafood, meat and more.
Open for dinner only, make the most of the outdoor area if you can. The owners, Mano and Rena Babiolakis, also provide all the catering to the clubrooms at the Bahrain Rugby Club.
Licensed. Janabiyah manos.bh (3989 3101).
Masso
The charmingly elegant Masso has over the years garnered high acclaim and is still considered among the best restaurants in Bahrain for all things Mediterranean today.
The restaurant uses internationally-sourced premium ingredients to bring the taste of the French Riviera to Bahrain. Dreaming of baked escargot, truffle funghi and lobster risotto? This is the place for you.
Licensed. Palmyard Hotel, Adliya massorestaurant.com (1772 1061).
Mirai
Mirai has got to be on your radar when on the search for the best restaurants in Bahrain. Bringing flavours of the Far East to the vibrant Block 338, Mirai serves up new wave Japanese cuisine from makis and sashimis to pan-seared lobsters.
Licensed. Block 338, Adliya mirairestaurants.com (1771 3113).
Monsoon
Another crowd favourite serving all things Far Eastern (and you can tell right from the entrance), Monsoon is inspired by a Balinese Palace with a Thai influence.
Every corner of this restaurant highlights the essence of Pan-Asian charm. On the menu, you will find classic dishes and special menus for themed occasions.
Licensed. Block 338, Adliya @monsoonbahrain (1774 9222).
My Café
A nice all-day boutique restaurant serving fine gourmet meals, My Cafe serves an array of fantastic international dishes from fluffy American waffles to Italian pizzas and risottos to Middle Eastern shakshoukas, and Spanish churros.
Whether you’re looking for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or mixed drinks – head here or their second branch in Riffa.
Licensed. Block 338, Adliya mycafebh.com (7734 4444).
Nomad Urban Eatery
After something a bit more original? Nomad Urban Eatery is a two-storey restaurant awash with greenery and modern, industrial charm.
The menu is packed with everything from a smoked beef brisket burger and truffle pizza to kimchi noodles, hot stone rice and roasted beetroot.
A real crowd-pleaser, the prices are decent and there are heaps of gluten-free dishes too – making it one of the best restaurants in Bahrain for casual dining. Don’t miss the kombucha mocktails and booster shots to charge up your energy levels.
Unlicensed.The Courtyard, Manama nomadeatery.com (1700 0330).
Orla
Dishes here are a high-end take on Mediterranean classics, think heirloom tomato salad, lobster tagliatelle and braised king fish. Wood-fired ovens give a unqiue taste to the homemade pizzas and pides too if you want something more substantial.
It’s one of the best restaurants in Bahrain for date night or dinner with the girls. Continue your evening at Orla Roof, home to After Soir, which brings both local and global artists to perform
Licensed. Block 338, Manama orlarestaurant.com (7793 9393).
Ramenara
You guessed right. This is the home of ramen in Bahrain. Get ready to slurp the signature broths, that so distinctively balance sweet, salty, sour, bitter, and umami flavours.
Choose from variations split into ‘delicate’, ‘wholesome’ and ‘bold’, with Fancy Schmancy’s shio base and seared Wagyu tenderloin our pick of the moment. There’s also sharing dishes, tacos and poke bowls, but the ramen is what it’s all about here.
Unlicensed. Platinum Tower, Seef ramenara.com (3989 8966).
Rasoi by Vineet
If Indian cuisine is the one you want to splash out on, then make sure it’s at Rasoi by Vineet. Brought to Bahrain by celebrity chef Vineet Bhatia, this is one of the best restaurants in Bahrain for high-end, authentic Indian food, packed with flavour and plated with flair.
Whether for a celebration or just a jolly good feed, this is a reservation you need to make. Keep an eye out for various monthly offers and you might just get a good deal, too.
Licensed. Gulf Hotel Bahrain, Manama. @rasoibyvineetbh (1774 6461).
Re/Asian Cuisine
Wolfgang Puck’s second offering at the luxurious Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay brings to the Kingdom the renowned chef’s signature take on Asian cuisine.
Think crispy duck salad, pan-seared pot stickers, miso-honey marinated sea bream and cumin spiced grilled lamb.
It’s not just a brilliant place to go for creative dishes and a special meal, this restaurant also offers some of the best views of the Manama skyline from its location on the 25th floor of the iconic hotel.
Licensed. Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay, Manama. fourseasons.com/bahrain (1711 5046).
Roka
With everything from sushi, dumplings and tempura to the famous robata seafood, meat and vegetables, Roka is a welcome addition to Bahrain’s Japanese cuisine offering.
Not sure where to start? Go with one of the tasting menus, priced at either BHD30 or BHD45 per person.
Perfect for date night, Roka has the location to match its high-end credentials, with an enviable spot in Bahrain Harbour and a rooftop terrace made for watching the sun set over the waterfront.
Licensed. Bahrain Harbour, Block 346, Manama Seafront, rokarestaurant.com (1334 3334).
Sumosan
New on the block is a familiar name with branches spread across 9 countries. Will Sumosan make your list of the best restaurants in Bahrain? Here you can expect world-class dining and a stunning the beach view.
On the menu, you can expect a fabulous mix of signature dishes and Bahrain specials including the Japanese home-baked milk bread wagyu fillet Sando, 24-hour miso-marinated black cod, and more.
Licensed. Tue-Sun 5.30pm-3am. Address Beach Resort. @sumosan.bahrain (1700 8800).
SUSHISAMBA
Long-awaited and warmly welcomed, international restaurant brand SUSHISAMBA now has a home in Bahrain, set atop the new Conrad hotel in Financial Harbour.
It’s every bit as brilliant as you’d expect – with a menu jam-packed with stunning Japanese, Brazilian and Peruvian dishes and some of the most upbeat vibes in the Kingdom.
As with all SUSHISAMBAs, it’s setting is as impressive as the food and it is one of the best restaurants in Bahrain.
Licensed. Conrad Bahrain Financial Harbour, Manama. @sushisambahrain (7797 9779).
The Orangery
Boutique hotel, Palmyard, sets the bar high when it comes to dining. The Orangery may be billed as a ‘tearoom and patisserie’, but this restaurant offers far more than a place for a cuppa and a cake.
You can have breakfast, brunch, lunch or dinner and it’s a more refined setting than your average all-day dining cafe. Expect a fusion of European and Arabian flavours in the main dishes, and pastries that are as pretty as a picture.
There are also branches at The Avenues Mall and Al Liwan Mall, in case those locations suit better.
Unlicensed. The Palmyard Hotel, Adliya, orangeryme.com (1736 9696).
Trader Vic’s
Trader Vic’s is a world-cuisine concept located at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain. They offer a variety of flavours on the menu, ranging from sweet and savoury to rich and smoky, catering to every palate.
This worldwide tiki haven began from humble beginnings in 1934, when Vic “The Trader” Bergeron opened a cosy saloon in Oakland, California called Hinky Dinks.
Today, it sits comfortable in its home at The Ritz-Carlton and is among the best restaurants in Bahrain for vibrant food, mixed drinks, and views.
The Ritz-Carlton, Seef District tradervicsbahrain.com (1758 6555).
Villa Mamas
For a taste of Bahraini flavours, tradition and culture, expertly and lovingly blended with a style of cooking that prioritises seasonal, fresh and organic ingredients, Villa Mamas is the place for you.
Chef and founder Roaya Saleh wants the restaurant to feel like home and takes great pride in sharing the warmth of her khaleeji food with residents and tourists alike. Sit on the super cute patio if you can, and make sure the signature lamb ghoozi is on your order.
Unlicensed. Harbour Heights, Saar. @villamamas (1730 5031).
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