Attention, fellow food enthusiasts. It’s time to immerse yourselves in Dubai’s culinary scene, as the city proudly hosts an impressive lineup of 14 Michelin-starred restaurants.

The awaited second edition of the prestigious Michelin Guide has now unveiled its coveted selection of restaurants for the emirate this year. With great acclaim, three establishments have been honored with an impressive two-star rating, while a lineup of 11 restaurants has been bestowed with one-star recognition. Additionally, the guide features 17 venues recognized under the esteemed Bib Gourmand category, further cementing Dubai’s position as a culinary powerhouse.

During a press conference held at the Atlantis The Royal, the much-anticipated Michelin Guide 2023 unveiled an array of 90 restaurants and the recognition of three Michelin Green Star Restaurants for their commendable commitment to sustainability. Additionally, the guide celebrated 17 remarkable Bib Gourmands, further emphasizing the culinary excellence of the establishments in the spotlight.

Under the discerning assessment of Michelin inspectors, Michelin stars are bestowed upon restaurants based on their culinary excellence and overall dining experience. A single Michelin star is awarded to establishments offering “high-quality cooking that is worth a stop,” indicating remarkable culinary craftsmanship. Two Michelin stars signify “excellent cooking that is worth a detour,” reflecting exceptional culinary artistry that warrants a special trip.

The pinnacle of gastronomic achievement is represented by three Michelin stars, reserved for establishments offering “exceptional cuisine that is worth a special journey,” indicating an extraordinary dining experience that justifies a dedicated visit.

The latest Michelin Guide has unveiled its newly awarded restaurants, including Avatara, Dinner by Heston Blumenthal, and Moonrise, all of which have received a coveted Michelin star. In addition, a total of 11 restaurants have maintained their esteemed status, including 11 Woodfire, Al Muntaha, Armani/Ristorante, Hakkasan, Hoseki, Ossiano, Tasca by Jose Avillez, and Torno Subito.

II Ristorante – Niko Romito and Stay by Yannick Alleno have successfully maintained their two Michelin stars, demonstrating their consistent excellence. Tresind Studio, on the other hand, received a well-deserved promotion, going from one Michelin star to two.

Three new venues have secured their spots in the Bib Gourmand category, which showcases the best value-for-money restaurants. These include the Japanese-inspired 3Fils, the Balkan restaurant 21 grams, and the fine-dining Indian restaurant Aamara.

From the 2022 list, 14 restaurants have successfully maintained their well-deserved Bib Gourmand titles. Among them are Al Khayma, Bait Maryam, Brasserie Boulud, Fi’lia, folly, Goldfish, Ibn AlBahr, Indya by Vineet, Kinoya, Ninive, Orfali Bros, Reif Japanese Kushiyaki, Shabestan, and Teible. These establishments continue to offer exceptional value-for-money dining experiences.

The prestigious Michelin Green Star, highlighting restaurants with a strong commitment to sustainability, has been awarded to Boca and Teible. Last year’s recipient, Lowe, has also successfully retained its esteemed Green Star, solidifying its dedication to sustainable practices and culinary excellence.

In the newly introduced category for 2023, the Opening of the Year award was granted to chef Ariana Bundy for her restaurant, Ariana’s Persian Kitchen, located at the Atlantis The Royal. This recognition celebrates her establishment’s debut, capturing the culinary community’s attention and admiration.

The Young Chef Award was bestowed upon Omkar Walve, showcasing his remarkable talent and promising potential in the culinary realm. Tomislav Lokvicic from La Mar by Gaston Acurio emerged triumphant in the Service Award category, highlighting his commitment to delivering impeccable service to patrons. Finally, the Sommelier Award was claimed by Arturo Scamardella of Dinner by Heston Blumenthal, acknowledging his expertise and dedication to the art of wine curation.

“We never had any doubt about Dubai’s culinary potential, and this year this fascinating destination confirms its gastronomic appeal,” says Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the Michelin Guides, “From international visitors and professionals to local gourmets, everyone wants to be part of Dubai’s very unique energy. Dubai boasts many diverse culinary concepts, from Peruvian to Emirati, modern French, and traditional British to contemporary Japanese, ensuring everyone feels at home here. We’re so pleased to witness its gastronomic growth on an international scale.”

The Michelin Guide’s coveted list is curated, considering various culinary criteria. These include the exceptional quality of ingredients, the mastery exhibited in cooking techniques, the harmonious blending of flavors, the chef’s unique personality expressed through their cuisine, and the remarkable consistency maintained throughout the menu.

In a noteworthy accomplishment, 11 restaurants based in Dubai were honored with Michelin stars in June of the previous year, further solidifying the city’s emergence as a prominent culinary destination.