How Dubai's Trèsind became the first Indian restaurant to win three Michelin stars

Khaleej Times

5 days ago

It's not every day that a restaurant earns not one but three Michelin stars! Trèsind Dubai has been recognised in the Michelin Guide 2025. The restaurant has created history by becoming the first Indian restaurant in the world to earn Three Michelin Stars. It's a proud moment globally for the Chefs and Founders of Trèsind Studio.
What sets it apart is Trèsind's highest standards set up by founder Bhupender Nath and co-founder Sakshi Nath. Add to it the bold cooking techniques and excellent flavours presented by chef Himanshu Saini. Its innovative Indian cuisine has set a benchmark and 3 Michelin stars are proof of it.
The place takes double measures to ensure that the food, service, and overall experience at Trèsind meet the impeccable standards. Sakshi Nath, co-founder of the Michelin-starrer, says, 'Trèsind Studio was born out of the legacy of Trèsind Dubai, and it benefits from a deeply experienced team led by an exceptional restaurant manager. Their ability to work closely and cohesively is what allows us to uphold our philosophy of Atithi Devo Bhava — the guest is god. What truly sets the experience apart is the passion and precision the team brings to every service. From the kitchen to the front-of-house, it's their seamless collaboration and unwavering commitment to excellence that ensure each guest experience reflects the Trèsind standard. To maintain this level of quality, our staff regularly undergo rigorous training, keeping them sharp, inspired, and aligned with the evolving expectations of modern fine dining.'
The entire Trèsind team is elated and the phone hasn't stopped ringing ever since the news came out. Trèsind Studio's three-Michelin-star status will surely have a long-lasting impact on the Indian culinary scene and the chefs and founders are ever so prepared for it. 'Trèsind Studio's achievement of three Michelin stars is a historic moment not just for us but for Indian cuisine globally. It is the result of our team's relentless dedication, passion and countless hours of hard work. This recognition places Indian gastronomy firmly on the global culinary map and showcases the depth, diversity and innovation our cuisine has to offer. As owners, we take immense pride in our team and the platform this achievement has created for Indian culinary excellence.'
Trèsind helms under the expertise of chef Himanshu Saini. 'The menu and concept at Trèsind are shaped by the passion and curiosity of Saini. Extensive travels across India and to culinary capitals around the world have been instrumental in uncovering both forgotten traditions and fresh inspirations. These experiences continue to influence the kitchen's approach, blending time-honored Indian flavours with modern techniques and global perspectives. Each dish is the result of thoughtful research, storytelling and innovation offering a dining experience that feels rooted yet refreshingly new,' says Nath, who's all praises for Chef Himanshu Saini and the entire team at Trèsind.
One recent course that has deeply resonated with our guests is the Onam Sadya. Inspired by the traditional Kerala feast, it's presented through a choreographed, tableside service featuring a vibrant array of vegetarian preparations. It's a celebration of heritage, community, and emotional connection, often leaving a lasting impression long after the meal ends.
Sakshi Nath, Co-Founder Of TrèSind Studio
Trèsind Studio offers more than a meal—it delivers an immersive culinary journey. It's this experiential approach that sets them apart. The guests are not just dining; they are taken on a story through flavors, textures, and creativity. Holding three Michelin stars speaks volumes about the commitment to excellence. Across all restaurants, they follow the philosophy of treating our guests like family. The focus is on creating moments that are memorable, personal and extraordinary.
Chef Saini is understandably on cloud nine as he is swarmed with congratulatory messages and calls. In a recent interview to Culinary Culture – Saini mentioned how he was 'always curious to know why there are no three-star Indian restaurants in the world.' He believes 'every dish is not a final dish.' He always leaves a 'question mark' to a dish and waits for it to ''evolve with time.' In another Instagram post, he commented: 'It's a moment of pride for all the Indians.'
Saini's culinary journey in modern Indian cuisine started with a pivotal experience at Indian Accent in Delhi under chef Manish Mehrotra. He then played a key role in launching Masala Library and Farzi Café. In 2014, Saini relocated to Dubai and began conceptualizing Trèsind, showcasing his innovative approach to Indian cuisine.
While the world sees the glam and glory, the journey hasn't been easy, feels Sakshi Nath. 'Every historic milestone comes with its own set of challenges, and our journey has been no different. We've experienced numerous highs and lows, each of which has shaped us into who we are today. Earning three Michelin stars was not without its sacrifices, but every challenge was worth it. Trèsind Studio now holds the distinction of being the first Indian restaurant in the world to receive this honor, something that will remain etched in culinary history,' she says.
Achieving three Michelin stars is a tremendous honor and culinary feat indeed but it also marks the beginning of a new chapter for Trèsind. 'Our immediate focus is to uphold this standard of excellence and continue to innovate. At the same time, we are committed to elevating our other brands and extending this level of quality and recognition across our wider culinary portfolio,' signs off Sakshi.