At Hatay Restaurant—Abu Dhabi’s premier destination for authentic Anatolian cuisine—pairing the right beverage with your meal turns great dishes into unforgettable experiences. From charcoal-grilled kebabs to traditional Turkish breakfast spreads, this guide shares thoughtful, family-friendly drink pairings that honor Turkish culture and elevate every bite. Join us in Al Khalidiya at the United Square Building (next to Shining Towers) for warm hospitality, daily service for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, plus convenient takeaway, delivery, and catering.
Key Takeaways:
- Prioritize classic Turkish beverages—Ayran, çay (Turkish tea), Türk kahvesi (Turkish coffee), and şalgam—for culturally authentic pairings.
- For charcoal-grilled kebabs, choose cooling, palate-cleansing drinks like Ayran, mint lemonade, or sparkling water.
- Family-style dining shines with shareable pitchers (mint lemonade, iced tea) and fresh juices that everyone can enjoy.
Best Non-Alcoholic Pairings for Charcoal-Grilled Kebabs
Charcoal-grilled kebabs are a Hatay specialty, and the right beverage balances their smoky depth and spice.
- Ayran: The classic yogurt drink (yogurt, water, pinch of salt) cools the palate and complements bold flavors.
- Şalgam: A traditional, tangy fermented turnip-and-purple-carrot beverage that cuts through richness and pairs well with spicy kebabs.
- Turkish Tea (Çay): Robust and refreshing; sip between bites to highlight the kebab’s aromatic spices.
- Mint Lemonade: Zesty, lightly sweet, and perfect for heat; great for groups in shareable pitchers.
- Sparkling Water: Gentle effervescence resets the palate without masking flavors.
Exploring charcoal-grilled favorites for dinner in Abu Dhabi? These pairings keep each bite vibrant and balanced.
What to Drink with a Traditional Turkish Breakfast
A Turkish breakfast at Hatay is a colorful feast—olives, cheeses, breads, eggs, and more—best enjoyed with iconic beverages served the traditional way.
- Çay (Turkish Tea): Brewed in a çaydanlık (double teapot) and poured into tulip-shaped glasses, çay’s brisk profile flatters savory spreads without overwhelming them.
- Ayran: Smooth, lightly salted, and refreshing—excellent with eggs, sucuk, and warm bakery items.
- Fresh Orange or Pomegranate Juice: Bright acidity and gentle sweetness lift cheeses and simit.
Plan an early visit for our generous morning spread: explore our Turkish breakfast in Abu Dhabi.
Classic Turkish Beverages to Know
- Ayran: Creamy, cool, and savory—ideal with grilled meats, meze, and spicy dishes.
- Türk Kahvesi (Turkish Coffee): Finely ground, robust, and aromatic; a perfect finish to rich meals and desserts.
- Çay: The everyday black tea of Turkey, poured strong and sipped often—versatile with meze, grills, and pastries.
- Şalgam: Naturally fermented, tangy, and slightly spicy; a bold match for hearty plates and lentil soup.
- Fresh Juices & Non-Alcoholic Mojitos: Cooling, citrus-forward options that complement salads, meze, and lighter mains.
- Milkshakes & Soft Drinks: Family-friendly choices that pair well with kids’ favorites and sandwiches.
Learn more about our culinary heritage and hospitality on our About Us page.
Dessert Pairings: Baklava & Künefe
Finish strong with two Turkish icons and their time-tested drink companions:
- Baklava + Turkish Coffee: Coffee’s bittersweet intensity balances nutty layers and syrupy sweetness.
- Künefe + Çay: The crisp pastry and molten cheese shine with black tea’s clean, malty snap.
Family-Style Dining & Group-Friendly Drinks
Hatay’s family-style platters invite sharing, conversation, and easy pairing. For groups, consider large pitchers of mint lemonade or iced tea, carafes of Ayran, and a selection of fresh juices. These crowd-pleasing beverages keep the table refreshed from starters to desserts and underscore our welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere.
Takeaway & Delivery: Drinks That Travel Well
Enjoy Hatay at home or the office with beverages that hold up on the go. Ayran, bottled çay, and sealed fresh juices travel well; keep them chilled to preserve freshness. For corporate orders, pair meze and grills with a balanced mix of Ayran, mint lemonade, and sparkling water. Explore convenient options on our business lunch and dinner pages.
Plan Your Visit
Location: Ground Floor, United Square Building, Al Khalidiya, Abu Dhabi (next to Shining Towers)
Hours: Open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Parking: On-site parking available | Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible
Browse our ambience and plating in the Gallery, and read more food stories on our blog. We look forward to welcoming you for the best Turkish food in Abu Dhabi and an authentic Turkish cuisine experience in the UAE.
Ready to dine? Reserve your table or order takeaway/delivery today at Hatay Restaurant—your go-to Turkish restaurant in Abu Dhabi.
