Latest news with #DubaiCuisine
Khaleej Times
20-06-2025
- Business
- Khaleej Times
'No ceiling here': Why Dubai's dining scene can't be replicated anywhere else
On May 22, 2025, the fourth edition of the MICHELIN Guide Dubai unveiled its most diverse selection yet — 119 establishments representing more than 35 styles of cuisine. Among them were two new recipients of One MICHELIN Star, two awarded the prestigious Three MICHELIN Stars, and five new Bib Gourmand listings. The latest recognition not only reaffirms Dubai's ascent as a serious gastronomic capital but also reflects a growing appetite for culinary excellence rooted in creativity, craft, and cultural crossover. From fine dining icons to humble neighbourhood gems, the city's food scene is being redefined — one star at a time. A cut above The driving force behind Dubai's thriving restaurant scene is a potent mix of intentionality and ambition. The city is no longer just about glitz, it's about quality. Concepts that are clear in their identity, whether niche or experiential, are resonating. 'Diners here are informed, global, and seek out places that offer more than just a meal. They are looking for craftsmanship, and connection, and the brands that understand that are winning,' says Panchali Mahendra, CEO, Atelier House Hospitality. Dubai is a cultural and culinary melting pot, and one that's rapidly evolving. The pace at which the city adopts innovation, whether in design, service, or cuisine, is unmatched. 'Add to that a customer base that's curious, diverse, and open to experimentation, and you've got a city that gives restaurateurs the freedom to be bold. There's no ceiling here, and that's rare,' adds Mahendra. Always in Vogue Dubai's restaurant scene also continues to thrive thanks to its ever-evolving trends and the city's appetite for new experiences. There's always something new to try — whether it's a reimagined concept, a fresh chef collaboration, or a brand-new cuisine entering the market. This constant reinvention keeps both residents and tourists engaged and curious. Sergio Silva, director of Food & Beverage, Lapita, Dubai Parks and Resorts, Autograph Collection, explains, 'it's all about choice and access. Dubai offers a remarkable range of dining options — from casual neighbourhood spots to elevated international cuisine. The diversity is unmatched, and the standard across the board remains incredibly high. Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a multi-course culinary journey, the city delivers with ease and consistency. We've seen an influx of celebrity chefs, exciting fusion cuisines, and experiential dining formats. Dubai is on track to surpass even Paris, London, or New York — not just in numbers, but in creativity and service excellence.' The story matters Restaurants are being redefined as immersive spaces that tap into storytelling, ambiance, interactivity, and now even technology — with AI integration beginning to take shape in service and personalisation. To succeed here, you must innovate, surprise, and deliver something memorable. Samyukta Nair, restaurateur and founder of LSL Capital (Jamavar & MiMi Mei Fair), avers, 'Dubai's restaurant scene thrives on bold ambition, diversity, and an appetite for the extraordinary. What's working is the city's openness to innovation. There's a freedom here that encourages creativity, whether it's in the form of immersive design, reinterpreted heritage cuisines, or boundary-pushing concepts. Diners in Dubai are adventurous, cosmopolitan, and deeply engaged, which gives restaurateurs the confidence to tell more layered, expressive stories.' This synergy between elevated hospitality, luxury lifestyle, and a multicultural audience creates 'a uniquely fertile ground for meaningful culinary experiences,' she adds. Food capital Dubai has become one of the world's leading food capitals, recently ranked second only to Paris for food enthusiasts. And this is not accidental. Over the past five years, Dubai has invested heavily in becoming a serious food city. Not just for luxury but for depth, authenticity, and diversity. 'We've moved from importing concepts to nurturing young, homegrown talent. The Michelin Guide and Mena's 50 Best have validated what the industry here already knew. Dubai is a culinary force that combines global finesse with local ambition,' opines Mahendra. Dubai has matured into a true global dining destination because it reflects the world back to itself, with style, scale, and substance. There is a conscious elevation of both culinary standards and storytelling. 'Chefs and restaurateurs from across the globe are drawn here not only by the infrastructure and investment, but also by the diversity of palates and the sophistication of diners. The recognition is well-earned — Dubai is no longer just a city of spectacle; it's a city of substance. Every cuisine finds a home here, but what's most exciting is how those cuisines are being redefined, reinterpreted, and celebrated with real depth,' adds Nair. Discerning audience What works for the city is that it is not trying to be like anywhere else and that is exactly what makes it special. From futuristic skylines next to traditional souks, fine dining alongside beloved hole-in-the-wall space, the city has multiple identities, is supremely multicultural all coexisting, all evolving. Karishma Sakhrani, Master Chef India's finalist, culinary director, Acme Hospitality, and brand chef, Viceroy's Table, says, 'We chose Dubai to launch Viceroy's Table because the city is in the middle of a cultural and culinary awakening. It's no longer just a place people pass through, it's where they come to stay, to build, to belong. That shift creates the perfect audience — well travelled, discerning, and always curious. We felt there was space for a brand that's layered, thoughtful, and global in its outlook and Dubai gave us the platform and the energy to do just that.' Trend check Dubai is now seeing a pivot towards specialisation concepts that focus on one dish or one category, done exceptionally well. There's also a growing appetite for ingredient-led storytelling, where sourcing and sustainability aren't afterthoughts but integral to the brand. Diners are now seeking emotionally resonant experiences. They want to feel something beyond taste. Rahul Rana, Executive Chef, Avatara Dubai, says, 'Diners are looking for more than just a meal; they want an experience. Sustainability, plant-forward menus, and ingredient transparency are also gaining traction, as more people become mindful of what they consume.' Healthy competition among chefs and restaurateurs is also pushing boundaries, resulting in innovative concepts and bold flavour profiles. 'Dubai's restaurant scene is becoming more experimental and expressive, yet still rooted in hospitality,' he adds. 'Being a chef here in the city for the last 11 years, if we talk about trends, many homegrown concepts are coming up; private supper clubs are the hottest topic in 2025, and four hands dinners are always working here to have the experience of two great chefs under one roof,' adds Tarun Panjwani, application chef, Fagor Professional — Middle East. 'Dubai means digitalisation; digitalisation means Dubai. Everything is available right at your fingertips; your favourite food from your favourite joint is now more accessible ordering at home than driving all the way to eat at the place.' What lies ahead Dubai today is no longer about imported excellence; it is about homegrown credibility. The food scene here has matured and what really works for the city's culinary landscape is the fact that it is completely unburdened. In fact, when Chef Himanshu Saini went up to receive his award as the first Indian restaurant to win three Michelin stars, he acknowledged the role Dubai has played by stating, 'I believe firmly that Trèsind Studio can only be Trèsind Studio in Dubai; it cannot be the same in any other city or country.' And perhaps it is safe to say that this is just the tip of the iceberg and there's a lot more to come. Until then, bon appétit!
Khaleej Times
23-05-2025
- Business
- Khaleej Times
Trèsind Studio Dubai becomes first Indian restaurant with three Michelin stars
Dubai's culinary stars shone bright on Thursday night when the best, tastiest, and trendiest restaurants were awarded at the fourth edition of Michelin Guide Dubai. The biggest winners were homegrown Trèsind Studio, which became the first Indian restaurant in the world to receive three Michelin stars, and new entrant FZN by Björn Frantzén, which now also holds bragging rights to three stars — the highest recognition awarded by the body. (Currently, only about 140 restaurants across the world own this distinction.) 'Dubai's rapid transformation into a global culinary hub is testament to its diversity and excellence,' said Gwendal Poullennec, international director of the Michelin Guide. 'Dubai embraces a rich tapestry of flavours that reflect the world's gastronomic passions. With the city now home to 119 Michelin-recommended establishments, it stands as a beacon for food lovers, drawing them to experience the very best of the world's culinary traditions, all within one dynamic destination,' Poullennec added. 'It's a testament to bold innovation, extraordinary talent, and culinary distinction,' said Issam Kazim, CEO of Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM). He added: 'Just as three Michelin stars signify a restaurant that is 'worth a special journey', the same applies to Dubai as a destination. From celebrated homegrown eateries to globally renowned names, this vibrant gastronomic landscape truly reflects the diversity and dynamism of a city that always aims to inspire the world.' Passion and teamwork Chef Himanshu Sahni of Tresind Studio threw air punches to celebrate its historic win and consistent (since 2022) success. He has always credited his family with being the driving force behind his success. In an earlier interview with Khaleej Times, he said that his inspiration comes from home. 'My mother is a great chef,' he said. 'I grew up watching her cook and soon I started my own journey of cooking. She has always supported my dream to become a chef and she has pushed me to better myself every step of my 14 years in the industry.' Bhupender Nath, the man behind Passion F&B, which owns and operates Tresind and its sister concerns, had dreamt of setting up a restaurant ever since his father closed down the family eatery in the Indian city of Patna after financial troubles. On Thursday night, he said he understood the power of the word 'only' and was thankful for it 'Today I understand the power of the word only,' he said. 'I understand how heavy it is and how beautiful a word it is. We are the only Indian restaurant to have three stars and what a place to have it — Dubai, where only dreams come true.' His wife, Sakshi Nath, credited the hard work of his team. 'We create a vision and move towards the vision,' she said. 'It is passion and teamwork that makes it work.' Best of both worlds FZN by Björn Frantzén, which blends modern European fine dining with Japanese influences, also holds three Michelin stars in Stockholm and Singapore. Speaking on stage while accepting the award, head chef Torsten Vildgaard said the moment felt unreal. 'I am speechless,' he said. 'We represent a strong and talented team that relocated here for the purpose of opening FZN and going all in. Thank you team.' The fusion three-star restaurant offers 'a highly sophisticated experience with an array of dishes blending Scandinavian and Asian influences that make great use of the finest luxury ingredients'. Aside from Tresind Studio and FZN by Björn Frantzén, three other restaurants received two Michelin stars; 14 restaurants clinched one star; while three restaurants were given the Michelin Green Star; 22 are now Bib Gourmand restaurants; and 78 others are Michelin-selected ones. All Dubai restaurants were selected and judged based on their cuisine style, concept, and location. Whether they are luxury fine dining restaurants or street food eateries, Michelin Guide applied the same five criteria used around the world: quality of ingredients; mastery of cooking techniques; harmony of the flavours; expression of chef's personality in the cuisine; and consistency, both over time and across the entire menu. Special awards A young 30-year-old chef, who was born and raised in Dubai, became a man of many jackets as he scooped up the young chef award and a Michelin star during the event, which came five months after opening. The chef, Abhiraj Khatwani of Manao, was described as 'one to watch' for his exceptional cooking skills. Just minutes after donning his black chef jacket, which was awarded as part of the young chef award, he took it off to wear the white chef's jacket as the head chef of Manao. He thanked Mohamed Orfali of the Orfali brothers fame for their support in helping set up the restaurant. 'Abhiraj and all the staff of Manao, they are not a team, they are family,' said Mohamed. 'We worked together, lived together, and ate together to make this dream a reality. It has been the best thing ever to see Abhiraj grow and develop the flavours. He does what he does. It is not like I tweaked something or changed something. Everything is him.' Manao serves an 11-course tasting menu comprising re-imagined Thai classics. Jamavar, an authentic Indian restaurant located in the Dubai Opera district, was praised for its goat curry, which was the deciding factor for inspectors. Culinary director and executive chef Surendar Mohan shared a heartfelt speech thanking his family for their 'unconditional support' and for 'allowing me to work seven days a week, morning and night for my passion'. Jamavar also has branches in London and Doha, where they boast a Michelin star as well. Other winners The Michelin Green Star recognition was retained by Boca, Lowe, Teible for their mindful practices. Several other special awards were also handed out during the evening. The Opening of the Year award went to Ronin for serving up a 'rather special experience' while the Service Award for offering hospitality of the highest standard was awarded to Mohamed Galal of Al Khayma Heritage Restaurant. The Sommelier Award was given to Shiv Menon of Boca for 'exuding enthusiasm and pride' in his work.
Yahoo
22-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
For the First Time in Dubai Two Restaurants are Awarded Three MICHELIN Stars
Hero Photo Grand Finale Photo Trèsind Studio becomes the first Indian restaurant in the world to receive Three MICHELIN Stars FZN by Björn Frantzén enters the Guide with Three MICHELIN Stars in its first year The MICHELIN Guide Dubai 2025 selection also includes 2 new One MICHELIN Stars and 5 new Bib Gourmand restaurants DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, May 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Michelin celebrated the city's culinary excellence like never before at Dubai's fourth MICHELIN Guide Ceremony, held at Address Sky View. The event revealed 119 establishments, covering over 35 cuisine types, which made it into this year's selection, showcasing the city's booming gastronomic scene. For this fourth edition, The MICHELIN Guide Dubai recognizes two new One MICHELIN Star restaurants, and two new Three MICHELIN Star restaurants, as well as five new Bib Gourmand establishments. "Dubai's rapid transformation into a global culinary hub is testament to its diversity and excellence," says Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the MICHELIN Guide. "As demonstrated by Trèsind Studio's historic achievement of earning Three MICHELIN Stars in its fourth appearance—making it the first Indian restaurant worldwide to earn the Guide's highest accolade—Dubai embraces a rich tapestry of flavors that reflect the world's gastronomic passions. With the city now home to 119 MICHELIN-recommended establishments, it stands as a beacon for food lovers, drawing them to experience the very best of the world's culinary traditions, all within one dynamic destination." Whatever a restaurant's cuisine style, concept or location, whether they are luxury fine dining restaurants or street food eateries, the MICHELIN Guide Inspectors use the same five criteria all around the world: the quality of the ingredients; mastery of cooking techniques; the harmony of the flavors; expression of the chef's personality in the cuisine; and consistency, both over time and across the entire menu. His Excellency Issam Kazim, CEO of the Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM), part of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), said: "The launch of the fourth edition of the MICHELIN Guide Dubai, including the naming of the city's first Three MICHELIN Starred restaurants, marks another pivotal moment in Dubai's journey as a world-class gastronomic destination, and is a testament to bold innovation, extraordinary talent and culinary distinction. "Just as Three MICHELIN Stars signify a restaurant that is 'worth a special journey', so the same applies to Dubai as a destination; from celebrated homegrown eateries to globally renowned names, this vibrant gastronomic landscape truly reflects the diversity and dynamism of a city that always aims to inspire the world. "We extend our heartfelt gratitude to MICHELIN, whose dedication to excellence continues to elevate Dubai's reputation, highlighting the crucial role of restaurants in driving Dubai's destination appeal, economic growth, and global competitiveness. The people from almost 200 nationalities that live in Dubai are at the heart of the unique fabric of the city, and we congratulate all the restaurateurs, chefs and talents behind the establishments included in this year's Guide." Two restaurants are awarded Three MICHELIN Stars Two restaurants received Three MICHELIN Stars for the first time since the destination launched in 2022, marking a historical moment in Dubai's culinary scene. This distinction highlights exceptional cuisine, worth a special journey. A new addition to the Guide, FZN by Björn Frantzén has been awarded Three MICHELIN Stars. This true destination restaurant with a stellar team is acclaimed Swedish chef Björn Frantzén's debut in the Middle East. It offers a highly sophisticated experience with an array of dishes blending Scandinavian and Asian influences that make great use of the finest luxury ingredients. Trèsind Studio is promoted to Three MICHELIN Stars in its fourth appearance in the MICHELIN Guide Dubai, making history as the first Indian restaurant in the world to earn the Guide's highest accolade. This immersive Indian concept highlights Chef Himanshu Saini's limitless levels of imagination and creativity. The tasting menu showcases traditional Indian dishes from various regions, re-imagined and superbly crafted into vibrant, eye-catching, and flavorsome creations. Two new restaurants are awarded One MICHELIN Star Jamavar's Dubai outpost joined the 2025 Dubai selection with One MICHELIN Star. Located in Dubai's Opera district, this acclaimed Indian restaurant offers perfectly balanced and harmonious dishes crafted with prime ingredients. Helmed by Dubai-born chef Abhiraj Khatwani, Thai restaurant Manāo is an ode to the cuisine closest to his heart. The new One MICHELIN Star establishment serves an 11-course tasting menu comprised of re-imagined Thai classics with a twist, with flavors staying true to the cuisines vibrant and authentic roots. There are now fourteen restaurants in the MICHELIN Guide Dubai with One MICHELIN Star, a distinction that highlights high-quality cooking, worth a stop. Five new restaurants receive a Bib Gourmand In addition to the MICHELIN Stars, 5 new restaurants are added to the Bib Gourmand category. Named after Bibendum, the official name of the Michelin Man, the Bib Gourmand recognition goes to restaurants that offer great quality, great value cooking. The five restaurants are: DUO Gastrobar-Creek Harbour: This second branch offers an appealing, well-priced menu with an array of unfussy, refined comfort food. Harummanis: This Malay grill eatery takes influences from numerous neighboring countries and boasts perfectly spiced and balanced flavors. Hawkerboi: A relaxed restaurant highlighting the subtleties of the street foods of Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand and Myanmar, perfect for sharing. Khadak: Get a taste of India's street food at this contemporary and vibrant Indian brasserie offering sharing plates that are full of flavor. Sufret Maryam: Chef Salam Dakkak's second venture offers a selection of refined Levantine dishes, which are generous in flavor and size. MICHELIN Special AwardsWith its Special Awards, the MICHELIN Guide aims to highlight and celebrate the amazing diversity of the roles within the hospitality industry, as well as its most talented and inspiring professionals. The Opening of the Year Award for 2025 is awarded to the restaurant Ronin. Located in the FIVE LUXE JBR Hotel, this beautifully conceptualized spot evokes fantastical pan-Asian decor, complemented by a superb selection of produce and bold flavors, creating an immensely enjoyable contemporary Japanese dining experience. The Sommelier Award is presented to Shiv Menon of Boca restaurant. His passion for wine and drinks is evident in every conversation, without condescension. His list supports the restaurant's sustainable ethos, featuring symbols that highlight environmental and community benefits. He organizes tastings to share his knowledge and love for the subject. The Service Award presented by RAK Porcelain goes to the team at Al Khayma Heritage Restaurant. Despite its large operation and busy atmosphere, this restaurant is far from a tourist trap. The team runs it with pride and passion, aiming to please every guest. Early arrivals enjoy Arabic coffee outside, while inside, servers guide diners through the menu. The heartfelt goodbye is as meaningful as the welcome. The Young Chef Award goes to 30-year-old Chef Abhiraj Khatwani, who helms the kitchen at Thai restaurant Manāo, a recipient of a MICHELIN Star in this year's Guide (newly awarded One MICHELIN Star). He earns this award thanks to his experience in Thailand, for the enthusiasm he shows to his home city, and through his authentic, skillfully balanced dishes. Finally, the MICHELIN Guide Ceremony celebrated the remarkable selection of restaurants for the year 2025. This year's distinctions and awards have highlighted the exceptional talent, dedication, and innovation within the culinary world in Dubai. From sustainable gastronomy to authentic and skillfully crafted dishes, the honorees have set new standards and inspired others. Their passion and commitment to excellence have truly made this year's selection outstanding. We look forward to witnessing continued success and contributions to the culinary arts in next year's selection. The MICHELIN Guide Dubai selection 2025 at a glance: 2 restaurants with Three MICHELIN Stars (1 Promotion, 1 New) 3 restaurants with Two MICHELIN Stars 14 restaurants with One MICHELIN Star (2 new) 3 restaurants with a MICHELIN Green Star 22 Bib Gourmand restaurants (5 new) 78 MICHELIN selected restaurants (15 new) A replay of The MICHELIN Guide Ceremony and other highlights are available on the official MICHELIN Guide Middle East Facebook page and the MICHELIN Guide Global YouTube channel. The full selection of The MICHELIN Guide Dubai 2025 is available on the MICHELIN Guide website and on the MICHELIN Guide app, available free of charge on iOS and Android. The MICHELIN Guide is a benchmark in gastronomy. Now, it's setting a new standard for hotels. Visit the MICHELIN Guide's official website, or download the MICHELIN Guide mobile app (iOS and Android), to discover every restaurant in the selection and book an unforgettable hotel. The MICHELIN Guide Worldwide app for iOS and Android devices. Website: @MichelinGuide About MichelinMichelin is building a world-leading manufacturer of life-changing composites and experiences. Pioneering engineered materials for more than 130 years, Michelin is uniquely positioned to make decisive contributions to human progress and to a more sustainable world. Drawing on its deep know-how in polymer composites, Michelin is constantly innovating to manufacture high-quality tires and components for critical applications in demanding fields as varied as mobility, construction, aeronautics, low-carbon energies, and healthcare. The care placed in its products and deep customer knowledge inspire Michelin to offer the finest experiences. This spans from providing data- and AI based connected solutions for professional fleets to recommending outstanding restaurants and hotels curated by the MICHELIN Guide. Headquartered in Clermont-Ferrand, France, Michelin is present in 175 countries and employs 129,800 people. ( Press Contact BPG Groupmichelinguide@ Photos accompanying this announcement are available athttps:// in to access your portfolio
