Michelin Guide Dubai reveals its list for 2026
Orfali Bros rises to two michelin stars
The fifth edition features 122 restaurants spanning 38 cuisine types, with 19 new additions across the selection. Notably, Orfali Bros has been promoted to Two MICHELIN Stars, two years after receiving its first star. The promotion recognizes the restaurant’s evolution from a neighborhood bistro into a leading expression of Middle Eastern gastronomy. Its cooking draws on Aleppian, Armenian and Turkish heritage, while the Voyage menu continues to evolve in refinement and depth. Meanwhile, FZN by Björn Frantzén and Trèsind Studio retain their Three MICHELIN Stars. Il Ristorante Niko Romito, Row on 45 and STAY by Yannick Alléno also maintain their Two MICHELIN Stars.
Two new restaurants earn one star
Birch and KIGO join the selection with One MICHELIN Star, bringing Dubai’s total to 14 restaurants at this level. Birch, led by chef Arslan Berdiev, reflects his Turkmen heritage and travels through contemporary cooking. Its menu focuses on high-quality produce, including Uzbek tomatoes, while an open kitchen places the preparation at the center. KIGO offers both Sushi Omakase and Kaiseki experiences, highlighting seasonal Japanese cuisine. Carefully selected produce, delicate flavors and understated presentation define the restaurant’s approach.
Four new bib gourmand additions
Dubai’s 2026 selection includes 22 Bib Gourmand restaurants, with four new additions recognized for exceptional food and value. Middle Child joins the selection with Italian dishes served in a relaxed bistro and deli setting. S.E.A Bistrot brings bold Asian cooking, while Mango & Sticky Rice and Milk Cake have developed their own following. Three Bros, the sister restaurant to Orfali Bros, also joins the Bib Gourmand selection. Its menu reflects the Syrian brothers’ childhood, heritage and travels. YUBI Dubai completes the new additions, serving made-to-order hand rolls alongside homemade pickles and condiments.
Michelin Special Awards recognize hospitality talent
The 2026 edition also recognizes professionals shaping Dubai’s dining experiences through service, creativity and technical expertise. Gonzalo Platero and Window receive the MICHELIN Opening of the Year Award for its wood-fired cooking. Meanwhile, Ninad Jani of avatāra receives the MICHELIN Sommelier Award for his wine pairings and approachable service. The MICHELIN Service Award goes to Akinori Tanigawa and the KIGO team. Rémy Marquignon, Executive Chef of Ossiano, receives the MICHELIN Young Chef Award. Zahra Erfanian Azmoodeh of Carbone Dubai receives the MICHELIN Exceptional Cocktails Award for cocktails complementing the restaurant’s Italian-American dining experience.
A broader view of dubai’s culinary identity
The 2026 edition also introduces Mindful Voices to Dubai, a global MICHELIN Guide platform highlighting chefs and hoteliers reshaping their fields. Zachary Roy, Operational Manager of LOWE, is featured as a Mindful Voice. His contribution focuses on sourcing, whole-ingredient use and LOWE’s fire-led cooking approach. The restaurant follows a nose-to-tail philosophy, using traceable ingredients sourced locally where possible. Organic waste is also transformed into compost for its garden.
The MICHELIN Guide Dubai 2026 selection includes 2 Three MICHELIN Star restaurants, 4 Two MICHELIN Star restaurants, 14 One MICHELIN Star restaurants, 22 Bib Gourmand restaurants and 80 MICHELIN-Selected restaurants.
The full selection is available through the MICHELIN Guide website and the MICHELIN Guide app.
