Dubai’s culinary landscape has evolved into a vibrant tapestry of flavors, largely due to the contributions of elite chefs who have established their presence in the city. These culinary artists have not only introduced innovative dining experiences but have also played a pivotal role in positioning Dubai as a global gastronomic hub.
Grégoire Berger – Ossiano
At the helm of Ossiano, located in Atlantis, The Palm, Chef Grégoire Berger has garnered international acclaim for his avant-garde approach to seafood cuisine. His meticulous attention to detail and commitment to sourcing the finest ingredients have earned Ossiano two Michelin stars, solidifying its status as a premier dining destination in Dubai. In recognition of his culinary excellence, Berger was honored with the prestigious Three Knives award at The Best Chef Awards 2024, underscoring his significant impact on the global culinary scene.
Himanshu Saini – Trèsind Studio
Chef Himanshu Saini leads Trèsind Studio, a restaurant celebrated for its innovative Indian tasting menus that artfully blend traditional flavors with contemporary techniques. Under Saini’s guidance, Trèsind Studio has achieved two Michelin stars, reflecting its status as a beacon of modern Indian cuisine in Dubai. Saini’s contributions were further acknowledged with the Three Knives award at The Best Chef Awards 2024, highlighting his role in redefining Indian gastronomy on a global platform.
Mohamad Orfali – Orfali Bros
As a co-founder and culinary visionary behind Orfali Bros, Chef Mohamad Orfali, along with his brothers, has introduced a unique dining experience that marries Middle Eastern flavors with contemporary culinary techniques. The bistro has been recognized for its innovative approach, earning a place in the Michelin Guide and receiving accolades for its contribution to Dubai’s dining scene. At The Best Chef Awards 2024, Orfali was honored with the Two Knives award, signifying his influence and excellence in the culinary arts.
Sara Aqel – Fi’lia
Chef Sara Aqel has made significant strides in the culinary world as the head of Fi’lia, an Italian-Mediterranean restaurant renowned for being led entirely by women. Her leadership and culinary prowess have been instrumental in Fi’lia’s success, earning it a Bib Gourmand recognition from the Michelin Guide. Aqel’s dedication to her craft was acknowledged with a One Knife award at The Best Chef Awards 2024, highlighting her as a notable contributor to Dubai’s gastronomic landscape.
Solemann Haddad – Moonrise
Chef Solemann Haddad, a Syrian-French culinary artist, leads Moonrise, a restaurant that offers a unique tasting menu concept blending Japanese techniques with Middle Eastern flavors. Haddad’s innovative approach has positioned Moonrise as a notable establishment in Dubai’s dining scene. His contributions were recognized with a One Knife award at The Best Chef Awards 2024, underscoring his role in pushing culinary boundaries.
Rahul Rana – Avatara
Chef Rahul Rana is at the forefront of Avatara, a restaurant that offers a unique vegetarian fine dining experience in Dubai. His dedication to elevating vegetarian cuisine has earned Avatara a Michelin star, reflecting its excellence and innovation. Rana’s culinary artistry was further acknowledged with a One Knife award at The Best Chef Awards 2024, highlighting his significant impact on the vegetarian dining scene.
Tom Allen – Dinner by Heston Blumenthal
As the head chef of Dinner by Heston Blumenthal in Dubai’s Atlantis The Royal resort, Chef Tom Allen oversees a dining experience that reimagines British culinary history with modern techniques. The restaurant has quickly gained acclaim, earning a Michelin star within months of opening. Allen’s meticulous attention to detail and commitment to excellence have been pivotal in the restaurant’s success, making it a standout in Dubai’s culinary landscape.
Joël Robuchon – L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon
The late Chef Joël Robuchon’s legacy continues in Dubai through L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon, offering a unique dining experience that combines French culinary artistry with contemporary flair. The restaurant is part of Robuchon’s global portfolio, known for its excellence and innovation in French cuisine. L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon in Dubai upholds this tradition, contributing to the city’s reputation as a destination for world-class dining.
Ranveer Brar – Kashkan
Celebrity chef Ranveer Brar has expanded his culinary footprint to Dubai with the opening of Kashkan in Festival City Mall. Known for his expertise in Indian cuisine, Brar brings a contemporary twist to traditional flavors, offering a dining experience that resonates with both locals and visitors. His venture into Dubai’s culinary scene adds to the city’s diverse gastronomic offerings, further establishing it as a global food destination.
These chefs represent a fraction of the talent that contributes to Dubai’s dynamic culinary scene. Their dedication to their craft and innovative approaches continue to elevate the city’s status as a global gastronomic hub, offering diverse and exceptional dining experiences to residents and visitors alike.