Michelin’s Culinary Triumphs in Dubai: A Glimpse into the 2025 Guide
Celebrating Culinary Excellence
Dubai’s gastronomic landscape continues to flourish, and this was especially showcased at the fourth MICHELIN Guide Ceremony held at Address Sky View on May 23, 2025. This event marked a significant milestone with the recognition of 119 establishments spanning over 35 diverse cuisines. From traditional Emirati dishes to international flavors, the ceremony highlighted Dubai’s ambition as a culinary beacon.
New Stars on the Horizon
For the 2025 edition, the MICHELIN Guide honored two new One MICHELIN Star restaurants and two new Three MICHELIN Star establishments. This elevation underscores the dynamic evolution of Dubai’s dining scene. Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the MICHELIN Guide, lauded the city’s burgeoning status as a global culinary hub. He emphasized the historic achievement of Trèsind Studio, which made history as the first Indian restaurant globally to earn the prestigious Three MICHELIN Stars.
Assessing Culinary Mastery
Regardless of style or location, MICHELIN Guide Inspectors universally apply five criteria to judge establishments:
- Quality of Ingredients
- Mastery of Cooking Techniques
- Harmony of Flavors
- Expression of the Chef’s Personality
- Consistency Over Time and Across the Menu
This rigorous evaluation ensures that each honored establishment represents not just culinary excellence but also a dedication to the craft.
A Pivotal Moment: The First Three Stars
His Excellency Issam Kazim, CEO of the Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing, heralded the launch of this edition as another pivotal moment for Dubai’s culinary scene. Notably, the first two restaurants awarded Three MICHELIN Stars raised the bar for gastronomic excellence in the region.
FZN by Björn Frantzén
One of the standout establishments, FZN by Björn Frantzén, is the acclaimed chef’s first venture in the Middle East. This restaurant promises an intricate blend of Scandinavian and Asian influences, offering an unparalleled dining experience that employs the finest luxury ingredients.
Trèsind Studio
Trèsind Studio elevates Indian cuisine by reimagining traditional dishes through innovative culinary techniques. Chef Himanshu Saini’s creative tasting menu draws from various Indian regions, presenting vibrant and eye-catching dishes that reflect the restaurant’s dedication to authenticity and innovation.
One MICHELIN Star Achievements
This year also saw the emergence of two new One MICHELIN Star restaurants:
Jamavar
Jamavar’s Dubai outpost joins the ranks with its offerings of harmoniously balanced Indian dishes crafted from prime ingredients. The cuisine reflects traditional flavors with a contemporary twist, making it a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts.
Manāo
Manāo, helmed by Dubai-born chef Abhiraj Khatwani, has captured hearts with its 11-course tasting menu of reimagined Thai classics. Rooted in authenticity, this restaurant brings a unique flair to traditional Thai cuisine.
Bib Gourmand Recognition
Alongside the prestigious star ratings, five new restaurants received the Bib Gourmand recognition, celebrating great quality and value in culinary offerings. These include:
- DUO Gastrobar: Known for its well-priced comfort food in a refined setting.
- Hawkerboi: A relaxed spot serving the beloved street foods of Southeast Asia in a share-friendly environment.
Special Awards Spotlight
In addition to the stars and Bib Gourmand accolades, the MICHELIN Guide also handed out special awards to celebrate exceptional talent within the culinary scene:
Opening of the Year Award
Ronin, located in the FIVE LUXE JBR Hotel, was honored for its captivating pan-Asian decor and superb culinary offerings that promise an immersive dining experience.
Sommelier Award
Shiv Menon of Boca received recognition for his extensive wine knowledge and sustainable approach, further enhancing the dining experience.
Service Award
The Service Award went to the team at Al Khayma Heritage Restaurant, known for their warmth and dedication, creating a memorable atmosphere for guests.
Young Chef Award
At just 30, Chef Abhiraj Khatwani of Manāo was celebrated for his authentic dishes and enthusiasm for his culinary roots, showcasing the brilliance of Dubai’s younger culinary talent.
The Future of Dubai’s Culinary Landscape
Through awards and acknowledgments, the MICHELIN Guide continues to promote the extraordinary talent and innovation present in Dubai’s culinary scene. With each year, these distinctions inspire chefs and restaurateurs to elevate their culinary practices, contributing significantly to the city’s reputation as a world-class gastronomic destination.
The 2025 MICHELIN Guide selection is a celebration of culinary excellence, innovation, and the ever-evolving nature of dining in Dubai. As chefs and restaurateurs continue to push boundaries, the future of Dubai’s gastronomy promises to be even more vibrant and diverse.
