Tresind Studio: A Culinary Milestone for Indian Cuisine
In a remarkable turn of events, Tresind Studio, an innovative Indian restaurant located in Dubai, earned the prestigious accolade of three Michelin stars, making it the first Indian restaurant in the world to achieve this honor. This achievement not only places it in a select group of only 151 three-star establishments globally but also marks it as the only restaurant in West Asia across all cuisines to receive such recognition.
A Surprising Announcement
On a night that took much of the culinary world by surprise, Gwendal Poullennec, the global director of the Michelin Guide, made a special trip to Dubai for the announcement. Intriguingly, the restaurant’s team had been secretly informed two days prior under strict confidentiality, adding a layer of suspense to the reveal. Poullennec assured the team that they had made history, a statement that initially left chef Himanshu Saini in disbelief. The joy erupted among his team members, transforming the initial shock into exuberant celebrations filled with tears and hugs.
The Significance of the Michelin Stars
Michelin stars are revered in the culinary world, serving as a hallmark of quality and excellence. One star signifies a very good restaurant, while two stars denote one of the best in the region. However, three stars are bestowed only upon those establishments that are explicitly regarded as among the finest on the planet. Tresind Studio’s achievement underscores a growing acceptance and elevation of Indian cuisine on the global stage.
Chef Himanshu Saini: A Rising Star
At the helm of Tresind Studio is Himanshu Saini, a chef under the age of 40 whose talent and vision have redefined modern Indian dining. It is particularly noteworthy that expectations pointed toward an expensive venue run by a renowned European chef as the first to achieve this milestone in Dubai. Instead, Saini’s innovative approach to Indian gastronomy caught Michelin’s discerning eye, showcasing the richness and depth of Indian culinary traditions.
Roots in India, Vision in Dubai
Despite being based in Dubai, Tresind Studio maintains deep connections to its Indian roots. Himanshu trained at the famed Indian Accent in Delhi, under the mentorship of legendary chef Manish Mehrotra, who played a pivotal role in shaping Saini’s culinary techniques. The restaurant’s owner, Bhupender Nath, a self-made entrepreneur from Bihar, embodies the success story of pursuing passion alongside business acumen. With a foundation based in love for food, he has been instrumental in fostering Saini’s talent.
Expanding Horizons
While Tresind Studio is recognized as the flagship of the Tresind brand, there is another restaurant in Mumbai that aims to replicate its success. Saini had previously promised to dedicate more time to the Mumbai location, but the recent acclaim and recognition might alter those plans. As the most successful Indian chef on the map now, the pressure and expectations surrounding Saini are undoubtedly substantial.
A New Era for Indian Cuisine
The significance of Tresind Studio’s achievement extends beyond just fine dining; it signals a transformative moment for Indian cuisine on the world stage. Poullennec’s assertion that "the time is right for the recognition of Indian food" echoes a growing trend in the Michelin Guide’s acknowledgments of Indian restaurants across various countries. While three stars for Indian cuisine once seemed a distant dream, Tresind Studio has proven that the culinary landscape is evolving, opening up avenues for further recognition and appreciation.
Through its unique blend of traditional and modern culinary techniques, Tresind Studio is not just serving dishes; it is crafting experiences that resonate with both locals and international visitors. In doing so, it is paving the way for a future where Indian cuisine is celebrated globally, a dream that chef Saini feels deeply connected to and passionate about.
