Latest news with #Avatara
NDTV
27-05-2025
- Entertainment
- NDTV
Why You Should Dine At These Michelin-Starred Indian Restaurants In Dubai
If you are planning a trip to Dubai, you must make time to sample its food culture in different ways. Beyond street eats, international food chains and mall cafes, Dubai offers an exquisite range of fine dining experiences - some of which are considered among the best in the world. These award-winning restaurants are renowned for their clever and distinctive approaches to gastronomy. Several of them are Indian establishments serving elevated versions of regional cuisine. Dubai is currently home to three Michelin-starred Indian restaurants. Each of them has unique features that make them a worthy dining destination. Here is a guide to help you decide which one(s) to visit: These Indian Restaurants In Dubai Have Michelin Stars - Here's Why You Should Visit: 1. Tresind Studio Tresind Studio is the world's first and only Indian restaurant to win three Michelin stars. It is also one of only two Dubai restaurants to hold this coveted status at present. For many, this distinction alone is reason enough to try to score a reservation (which is far from easy). However, it is important to understand what it actually offers you as a guest. Helmed by Chef Himanshu Saini, Tresind Studio offers tasting menus that showcase reimagined regional Indian flavours. The presentation is innovative and visually striking, as it combines traditional ingredients and textures in unexpected ways. The restaurant is located on the terrace of the St. Regis Gardens at The Palm Jumeirah, thus offering a rooftop view - ideal for a luxurious dining experience. Who should visit: Dine at Tresind Studio if you are someone who seeks out the best of the best Indian restaurants in any given destination, if you want an intimate fine dining experience (it has only 20 seats), or if you simply want to try an elevated Indian tasting menu served with theatrical flair. This Indian restaurant offers both vegetarian and non-vegetarian fare, so it caters to a wide range of food preferences. In terms of location, Tresind Studio also has an advantage since The Palm Jumeirah is a popular tourist destination in itself. So, if you get the chance to dine here, you can plan your itinerary around your visit to this locality and its various other attractions. 2. Avatara Avatara is the world's first and only vegetarian Indian restaurant with a Michelin star. Its food famously contains no garlic or onion. Led by Chef Rahul Rana, Avatara aims to challenge stereotypes about Indian vegetarian cuisine and spotlight overlooked ingredients through its multi-course tasting menus. Like Tresind Studio, Avatara is also known for its eye-catching presentation, although it follows its own creative style. Moreover, each course comes with a fascinating story that adds depth to the experience. Avatara is located in Dubai Hills Business Park. The space has a soothing interior design, which allows the vibrant colours on plates to stand out even more. Who should visit: Plan a meal at Avatara if you are curious to try the diverse possibilities of vegetarian Indian food. Even if you are a non-vegetarian, this can help you appreciate new dimensions of plant-based ingredients. The food here is also said to be wholesome and typically light. So, if you are seeking a multi-course tasting menu that is not overly rich or heavy, Avatara could be a good option. 3. Jamavar Dubai Jamavar Dubai was awarded its first Michelin star in 2025. Its two other international branches - London and Doha - also hold single Michelin stars. The restaurant is helmed by Culinary Director Surender Mohan. The menu curation is inspired by the royal delicacies of Northern India and the coastal flavours of the Southern states. The glamorous interiors are enhanced by chandeliers, palatial designs and striking artwork. Jamavar is situated in downtown Dubai in the Opera District. Who should visit: Jamavar Dubai is an excellent choice if you want an Indian restaurant with opulent interiors and indulgent delicacies. Unlike the other two restaurants on this list, Jamavar offers food a la carte too (not just tasting menus). Its location in downtown Dubai means it is close to several other popular tourist attractions such as the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, Dubai Aquarium and more. Additionally, if you are attending a show at the Dubai Opera, Jamavar offers a set lunch menu as a pre-theatre dining option, as per The Michelin Guide. Want other travel tips for your Dubai trip? Click here to read more.
Telegraph
01-05-2025
- Business
- Telegraph
How Dubai became an eco-friendly home to sustainable tourism
Dubai has become synonymous with modernity and innovation, but the city is also evolving as a shining example of sustainable development and eco living, shaping itself as a place where green initiatives can thrive alongside world-class attractions. Here are just some of the ways you can embrace this eco-friendly ethos while visiting. Taste and try Dubai's culinary scene offers a range of eateries that embrace sustainability and promote locally sourced and organic food, with an increasing number of plant-based options available too. One of the most notable is Lowe, a Michelin Green Star-awarded restaurant in the lush surroundings of Al Barari, where diners are treated to dishes that emphasise seasonal produce cooked over fire, giving an experience that blends fine dining with eco-consciousness. Another must-try is Gerbou, a farm-to-table restaurant that's perfect for those wanting to enjoy sustainable, locally inspired cuisine in a beautifully designed space that references traditional Emirati design. And if sustainable dining really inspires you, try Boca, the 2025 winner of the Sustainable Restaurant Award at Mena's 50 Best Restaurants and also holder of a Michelin Green Star. Boca runs on 100 per cent renewable energy, diners are encouraged to offset their meals through local environmental initiatives and the restaurant partners with conservation organisations to further their sustainability efforts. Dubai's vegan scene also continues to expand with a host of plant-based eateries throughout the city. You can now go vegan in Jumeirah at Seva Table, part of the yoga, meditation and holistic wellness centre, or visit Dubai hills for the soulful Indian dishes of Michelin-starred Avatara. Shop, mingle and explore Exploring urban communities off the beaten path is a great way to dip into low-key yet impactful experiences, mingle with Dubai's residents, support local businesses and try some great food. The Ripe Market at Academy Park is an al fresco lifestyle hub that will win over anyone who loves to shop and connect with small-scale local businesses, producers and artisans. You can buy everything from hand-made beauty products to vinyl records and vintage clothes at its outdoor stalls, all of which are presented by homegrown UAE companies. Al Quoz is a creative cultural neighbourhood that's home to all the galleries and studios of Alserkal Avenue, and is where you can also find The Farmers' Market on Saturdays, when organic farmers from all over the UAE come with freshly harvested produce, complemented by stalls selling everything from Emirati traditional snacks to handmade soaps. Sustainability is taking centre stage in Dubai's fashion scene too, with a growing number of stores and markets offering pre-loved and vintage clothing. Retold in Al Quoz is a prime example of Dubai's growing interest in circular fashion, with this flagship store selling pre-owned garments from a host of big-name brands. For those seeking unique pieces, Urban Market Concept is a pop-up market showcasing thrifted and upcycled clothing. To get 'under the bonnet' of Dubai's drive to sustainability, take a day out to explore the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, some 50km south of the city, in the desert at Saih Al-Dahal. It's now home to the world's largest single-site solar park, where a visitor center provides interactive exhibits and detailed insights into how solar power is harnessed and its role in reducing carbon emissions. Here, the Dubai Electricity & Water Authority (DEWA) Innovation Centre hosts more than 35 interactive exhibitions, welcoming visitors of all ages to learn more about renewable energy sources. It's an inspiring experience for anyone interested in sustainability, and it's a strikingly beautiful melding of 21st century technology and nature, too. Natural beauty Dubai has many beautiful protected natural areas that both showcase robust conservation efforts and offer an escape from the urban hustle and bustle. Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary, in the heart of the city, is one of the UAE's most important wetland reserves, serving as a crucial stop for migratory birds along the East Africa-West Asia flyway, attracting more than 450 species of wildlife to its mangroves, mudflats and lagoons. Another noteworthy spot is the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, which, at 225 sq km, makes up almost five per cent of Dubai's land mass, and is one of the largest protected natural areas in the country. Part of the legendary Empty Quarter, it was the UAE's first national park and one of its most biologically diverse environments. It hosts more than 50 plant species, 120 bird species, and 43 mammals and reptiles, and here you can expect to see sand gazelles and even desert foxes on a guided safari or an eco-friendly tour – operators include Platinum Heritage and Sand Sherpa. Making up around 10 per cent of the total land area of the emirate is Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve, the UAE's first unfenced nature reserve. Head here for excellent birdwatching, stargazing and eco-friendly cycling and walking trails. Be on the look-out for wildlife too, including one of the largest populations of Arabian oryx in Dubai, as well as gazelle and 26 species of reptiles. Further afield, the Hatta Mountain Conservation Area in the foothills of the Hajar Mountains offers a mix of memorable mountain landscapes, lush green valleys and freshwater pools. Known for its cooler high-altitude climate, it's a perfect nature retreat and is just a 90-minute drive from the city. When it comes to eco-conscious places to stay, within the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve itself is the Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa. Al Maha is the heart of an eco-tourism project that is dedicated to preserving the ecology of the desert. More than 6,000 indigenous trees are planted here and the resort regularly looks at ways to reduce water and energy consumption. In Hatta, meanwhile, visitors can stay at eco-lodges such as Damani Lodges and Sedr Trailers, which provide an immersive experience reflecting local culture and heritage. Back in the city, Anantara Hotels & Resorts group includes sustainability as part of its growth and development, and its Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort was recently awarded Green Growth Certification by the Green Growth 2050 council. Similarly, the three hotels that comprise JA The Resort in Jebel Ali have reduced their environmental footprint by using solar water heating throughout the resort, from its pools to its guest rooms. Jumeirah Al Naseem, which looks out across the water to the mighty Burj al Arab, is another sustainability champion, but what makes it stand out the most is its lagoon, built as a sanctuary for sick and injured turtles, as part of the Dubai Turtle Rehabilitation Project. You can also look out for the city-wide Dubai Sustainable Tourism Stamp, which has already recognised 70 hotels for achieving the highest sustainability rankings. Broaden your horizons in Dubai In Dubai, you'll find all the right ingredients for a sun-soaked trip. The sophisticated metropolis by the sea provides unforgettable experiences, from serene safaris in the desert to dining in the world's tallest building. Broaden your horizons with a trip that takes in its exhilarating mix of record-breaking architecture, traditional neighbourhoods and white-sand beaches. You'll return home with plenty of tales to share.
FACT
03-04-2025
- Business
- FACT
Daftar Review: A Dubai dining experience worth the deadline rush
This nostalgic new Indian restaurant in DIFC offers a welcome break from the workday grind. Dubai is home to some of the world's best Indian restaurants, from homegrown concepts to MICHELIN-starred venues like Avatara to Trèsind Studio. Now, the city has welcomed the new Indian restaurant, Daftar, to Al Fattan Currency House in DIFC. Daftar — which translates to office — finds a quiet home on the mezzanine floor, promising Indian cuisine that is simple yet elevated, making it the perfect lunch spot for finance bros or those looking to escape their desk for a solid meal steeped in nostalgia. Desk goals As you step inside, you're greeted at the front desk with a sleek marble tabletop adorned with antique decor, reminiscent of old South Asian homes. Think vintage telephone (yes, the kind where you dial an actual number), instantly setting a retro yet modern tone. Venturing further, Daftar is thoughtfully divided into several dining areas. First up is the Sip-and-Nibble Section, an ideal spot for post-work drinks and small bites and to its left is the Executive Chamber, a private dining area that can accommodate up to 25 people for intimate gatherings. The People and Culture Hub is the main dining space with a balcony-style seating area, providing a semi-open-air feel. Minimalist yet warm, the decor leans on a beige, brown and green palette. Plush booths and cosy seating make it an inviting space, while a dedicated entertainment area hints at upcoming live music and comedy nights. A wall paying homage to the true daftar-aesthetic features treasures like old cameras, barometers, typewriters, and newspaper clippings, adding to the restaurant's charm. Mixing business with pleasure Daftar's menu delivers on its promise of elevated Indian cuisine, with several serious flavour bombs. We kicked things off with the Himalayan Jhol Momos. These steamed dumplings arrived in a pink-yellow, creamy curry infused with roasted garlic. The vegetable filling was finely chopped to maximise flavour, while the nutty sauce and crispy garlic bits added the perfect crunch. One bite, and we were hooked. Next up, the Makhmali Dahi Kabab were golden-crusted bites that oozed with soft, spiced yoghurt. Served in a ceramic egg tray alongside mint chutney and pineapple sauce, these were a perfect balance of creamy and crunchy. Then came the Tawa Lamb Chops. Marinated and coated in rich spices, the chops were grilled to perfection — tender, juicy, and soaked in a smoky flavour. The sauce clung beautifully to the meat, ensuring each bite was prepared to tingle the taste buds. For mains, the Chingri Daab Curry was flavoursome. This Bengali-style prawn curry arrived inside a raw coconut, sealed with dough and baked to lock in all the flavours. The coconut-infused curry was rich, slightly sweet, and spicy in the best way possible, with juicy prawns soaking up all the fantastic flavours. The Nalli Nihari was another dish we couldn't resist ordering. This slow-cooked lamb shank featured a rich gravy that was mildly spiced. While we usually enjoy nihari with a bolder spice profile, this version had a well-balanced, subtle richness that would appeal to those who prefer a milder take. The gravy leaned towards a thinner consistency compared to the traditional thick nihari, but it still carried the traditional flavours we expected. For dessert, the Kesari Moong Dal Halwa hit all the right notes. Made in pure desi ghee, the halwa had a delicate sweetness, loaded with almonds, pistachios, and edible flowers for extra flair. The contrast of soft, warm halwa with crunchy nuts resulted in a match-made-in-heaven moment. The Rabri Jalebi was yet another winner. Good rabri is rare to find in Dubai, but Daftar does it justice. Thick, creamy and mildly sweet, it paired beautifully with freshly fried jalebis that were crispy, syrupy and addictive. We ordered another round! Clock in for this All in all, Daftar is a solid addition to DIFC's dining scene. It's a superb spot for a meal without the usual chaos — quiet enough to offer a real break from work but lively enough to keep things interesting. Don't miss the Himalayan Jhol Momos, Makhmali Dahi Kabab, and Rabri Jalebi. You'll leave happy and prepared to plan your next visit. GO: Visit for more information.
Khaleej Times
26-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Khaleej Times
Dubai beats Paris, Sydney to become fourth most popular food destination on social media
Dubai is the fourth most popular food destination in the world on social media, according to a new survey conducted by an international travel agency. Travelbag compiled a list of 50 cities worldwide and analysed their Instagram and TikTok data to identify the most popular food destinations on social media as part of a wider study. It found that Dubai had over 2 million posts on Instagram and 127,900 TikTok videos showcasing the city's food culture. With these figures, it surpassed other cities like Sydney, Chicago and Paris. London topped the list followed by Toronto and Melbourne with almost 3 million Instagram posts each. Bhupender Nath, the founder and MD of Passion F&B, the group that manages Michelin-starred concepts like Tresind Studio and Avatara among others, said the result is not surprising. 'Dubai has become a global culinary hotspot,' he said. 'A few years ago, international brands were coming into Dubai from cities like London or Paris. But now, the trend is reversing. As a proud Dubai-based, homegrown group, we're now taking the concepts we launched here — like Trèsind, Carnival, and Avatara — to other parts of the world. It's a sign that Dubai is a food leader and no longer just a food destination.' According to the Travelbag report, Dubai stands out as a 'culinary giant', with 106 food and drink activities, a number that far surpasses other top cities like Melbourne which has 78 and Toronto, which has 40. Home to hundreds of restaurants, the emirate's dining scene has been exploding with some of the best concepts in the world choosing to set up shop in the city. In 2022, the Michelin guide was launched in the city, propelled many homegrown concepts in the country to superstardom. Dubai restaurants, like Tresind Studio and Orfali Bros. Bistro have also made it to the World's 50 Best Restaurants list. 'Instagrammability' matters Dubai-based international blogger Hubert, who posts as Mister Taster on Instagram, has been in this business for 15 years and calls himself the 'dinosaur' of food blogging. He lived in UK and Iran before moving to the emirate in 2022 after being granted a Golden Visa. He said 'virality' and 'social media presence' were integral to a restaurant's success now. 'A restaurant needs to have good food but also a good social media strategy to ensure that people know about it,' he said. 'A chef who is presentable on camera also goes a long way in making your brand well-known. When I was starting out, I used to post only photos. Now, you need videos but of course, the most important thing is good food. You can do all the marketing in the world but if the food is not good, people will not come back.' He said cultural ties to food and a backstory were the key ingredients to a good viral food video. 'One of my most popular videos was about a place that made Regag bread,' he said. 'We have over 55 million views on it. It was nothing fancy, but it was local cuisine and told the story of the UAE. Another video of mine about eating a whole lamb with rice also did really well with over 28 million views.' A Dubai gastronomy industry report in 2023 had revealed that the city ranked second worldwide in terms of restaurant density. Telling the story According to Nath, telling a story is what has contributed to some of the most popular dishes in their restaurants. 'Take the iconic chaat trolley at Trèsind, or the Gajak dessert at Carnival by Trèsind — both are designed to surprise, and tell a story rooted in nostalgia and flavor,' he said. 'Today, the visual appeal of a dish or a space is often the first thing that captures a guest's attention — especially on social media. But for us, it is not just about looking good. It's about creating an emotional connection. That's what keeps guests coming back and recommending it to their friends and family.' He credited the power of Dubai's culinary scene to its diversity. 'It's one of the few cities where you can enjoy a progressive Indian tasting menu one night, authentic Emirati cuisine the next, and finish the week with elevated Japanese or Mediterranean fare,' he said. 'There's a hunger for quality and creativity here. Even before the arrival of Michelin, World's 50 Best, or Gault & Millau, the industry was thriving. But the launch of these prestigious platforms has pushed the scene further, setting benchmarks that match or even exceed international standards. Restaurants are now not only creating memorable dishes but also delivering experiences that rival the best in the world.'
