Featured image: a dish from the new two-MICHELIN-Star restaurant Trèsind Studio; above left: Issam Kazim and Gwendal Poullennec in Dubai; above middle: interior of 21Grams, a new Bib Gourmand recipient in the 2023 Dubai guide; above right: aerial view of Dubai.
Dubai, the thriving metropolis renowned for its culinary diversity, continues to captivate gastronomy enthusiasts worldwide with the release of the highly anticipated MICHELIN Guide Dubai 2023. At the grand unveiling held at the Atlantis The Royal hotel on 23 May 2023, the city’s culinary landscape came alive as the guide revealed its selection of 90 outstanding restaurants spanning 23 different types of cuisine. The famously anonymous MICHELIN inspectors were mesmerized by the gastronomic prowess on display, solidifying Dubai’s position as an enticing destination for food lovers.
With a keen eye for excellence, the MICHELIN Guide Dubai 2023 introduces three new one-MICHELIN-Starred restaurants, along with a notable addition of a new two-MICHELIN-Starred restaurant. These esteemed establishments have proven their dedication to culinary mastery, offering guests an extraordinary dining experience. Furthermore, the guide proudly showcases 17 Bib Gourmand restaurants, recognised for their exceptional value and quality. It also celebrates two restaurants that have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to sustainability, lauding them with the coveted MICHELIN Green Star.
Gwendal Poullennec, the International Director of the MICHELIN Guides, expressed his unyielding belief in Dubai’s culinary talent, stating: “We never had any doubt about Dubai’s culinary potential, and this year this fascinating destination confirms its gastronomic appeal.” Poullennec continued: “From international visitors and professionals to local gourmets, everyone wants to be part of Dubai’s unique energy. Dubai boasts many diverse culinary concepts, from Peruvian to Emirati, modern French, traditional British to contemporary Japanese, ensuring that everyone feels at home here. We’re so pleased to witness its gastronomic growth on an international scale.”
Above: a dish from Dinner by Heston Blumenthal, awarded with one MICHELIN star in the 2023 Dubai guide.
THE STAR-STUDDED RESULTS
Among the standout restaurants, Trèsind Studio has achieved a remarkable feat by securing two MICHELIN Stars in the 2023 selection, following its initial recognition with one MICHELIN Star last year. The restaurant’s evolution in creating highly original, precise, and intriguing dishes has impressed the inspectors, who gladly rewarded Trèsind Studio’s commitment to culinary excellence. Il Ristorante – Niko Romito and STAY by Yannick Alléno, both awarded two MICHELIN Stars in 2022, retain their distinction this year.
Joining the constellation of acclaimed restaurants are three newly awarded one-MICHELIN-Star establishments. These include avatāra, which, under the skilful leadership of chef Rahul Rana, elevates vegetarian cuisine to new heights with its exquisite combinations of flavours and textures, and Dinner by Heston Blumenthal, located in the prestigious Atlantis The Royal hotel, which tantalises diners with its British dishes inspired by centuries of culinary heritage. In addition, moonrise, led by chef Solemann Haddad, received its well-deserved one MICHELIN Star rating for its captivating fusion of Middle Eastern ingredients prepared with Japanese techniques.
Dubai’s culinary scene wouldn’t be complete without the recognition of its sustainable gastronomy pioneers. Boca, a vibrant newcomer to the guide, offers joyful Mediterranean cuisine while embracing an impressive sustainable ethos. Teible, an innovative eatery, showcases seasonal, locally sourced ingredients with simplicity and integrity, emphasising a sustainable approach. These two restaurants were proudly honoured with the prestigious MICHELIN Green Star.
Above left: a dish from avatāra, newly awarded with one MICHELIN Star in the 2023 Dubai guide; above middle: a dish from BOCA, recipient of a MICHELIN Green Star in the 2023 Dubai guide; above right: a dish from moonrise, newly awarded with one MICHELIN Star in the 2023 Dubai guide.
A NOD TO HOSPITALITY EXCELLENCE
In its quest to acknowledge the remarkable diversity of roles within the hospitality industry and honour its most talented professionals, the MICHELIN Guide also presents prestigious Special Awards. This year, the Young Chef Award recognises the extraordinary skills of Omkar Walve from avatāra. Hailing from India, Omkar leads a team that crafts delectable and delicate Indian vegetarian dishes. His colleagues find inspiration in his professionalism and culinary prowess, as he effortlessly takes charge of both cooking and serving. With a calm and nurturing demeanour and an exceptional palate, Omkar is undoubtedly a young chef with a promising future.
Arturo Scamardella of Dinner By Heston Blumenthal receives the well-deserved Sommelier Award for his impeccable guidance, profound knowledge, passion, and innate understanding of diners’ preferences. Arturo’s service is characterised by grace and professionalism, whether it’s a single glass or a bottle of exquisite wine. His ever-expanding cellar boasts an extraordinary selection, including a range of fine English sparkling wines.
The Service Award celebrates the exceptional team at La Mar by Gastón Acurio, expertly managed by Tomislav Lokvicic. Immersed in a vibrant ambience adorned with typical Peruvian colours, the staff shines brightly, radiating enthusiasm and energy. Their warm, caring, and professional service is a testament to their dedication. Proudly recommending dishes and wines, the team at La Mar enhances every customer’s dining experience.
Lastly, the coveted Opening of the Year Special Award is bestowed upon Ariana’s Persian Kitchen, led by the talented chef Ariana Bundy. Located on the ground floor of the newly opened Atlantis The Royal Hotel, this vibrant restaurant exudes a warm and inviting atmosphere, creating a delightful tent-like ambience. Guests can indulge in a splendid Persian menu, bursting with vibrant flavours and captivating tastes. The smartly dressed staff exude confidence, ensuring that every visit to Ariana’s Persian Kitchen is an unforgettable culinary journey.
Above: a dish from Dinner by Heston Blumenthal, awarded with one MICHELIN star in the 2023 Dubai guide.
FIND OUT MORE
The MICHELIN Guide Dubai 2023 was a true celebration of the pinnacle of this city’s burgeoning culinary landscape. All in all, the awards for this year included 3 restaurants with two MICHELIN Stars, 11 restaurants with one MICHELIN Star, 3 restaurants with a MICHELIN Green Star, 17 Bib Gourmand restaurants, and 59 MICHELIN selected restaurants.
Below is a roundup of the MICHELIN-starred restaurants unveiled in the 2023 Dubai edition. For the full list, visit guide.michelin.com.
Above: The MICHELIN Guide Dubai 2023 Award Winners