The Orfali Bros Bistro in Dubai scooped top honours with restaurants from both cities featuring heavily throughout
The Orfali Brothers Bistro were on cloud nine this week as they secured top honours in the ‘MENA’s 50 Best Restaurants Awards’ which were announced at a gala event at Erth Abu Dhabi.
Other restaurants who enjoyed success included Indian-inspired Tresind Studio in second place and Japanese-themed Kinoya in third, while Abu Dhabi was represented on the list by Marmalleta Bakery (29th), Le-Petite Maison(38th) and Niri (50th).
‘MENA’s 50 Best Restaurants’ is a celebration of the best places to eat across 19 countries in the MENA region. Launched in 2022, the annual list reflects the best restaurant experiences of an influential group of 250 leaders in the restaurant industry across the region.
But now, for all the foodies out there, let’s take a look at these award-winning restaurants in closer detail:
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Orfali Bros Bistro (winner)
The Orfali brothers from Aleppo, Syria, have created a standout dining experience in Dubai with Orfali Bros Bistro, ranking in the Middle East & North Africa’s 50 Best Restaurants for three consecutive years. Opened in 2021, this unpretentious bistro has made a significant impact.
The oldest brother, Mohammad, is the head chef, blending global influences with Arabic cuisine. Meanwhile, his younger brothers, Wassim and Omar, oversee the pastry section, crafting exceptional French-style desserts.
With their combined talents, the brothers have redefined Middle Eastern dining through innovation, tradition, and a personal touch that resonates with every dish.
Trèsind Studio (second)
After opening Trèsind in 2014 and the avant-garde Trèsind Studio in 2018, he gained widespread acclaim. His latest tasting menu, ‘Rising India,’ celebrates the country’s 5,000-year history and diverse produce.
Dishes are grouped by regions, such as the Deccan Plateau, featuring tender coconut kushiyaki with yuzu rasam, and the Northern Plains, with king oyster noodles in black fungus XO sauce and morel mushroom shoyu, showcasing the rich flavours and traditions of India’s culinary landscape.
Kinoya (third)
Chef Neha Misra’s passion for traditional Japanese ramen evolved into the popular supper club ‘A Story of Food’ in Dubai. After years of sold-out experiences, she opened Kinoya in Dubai in 2021 and later expanded to London’s Harrods in 2023.
Specialising in ramen, Misra’s signature dish is the shio paintan ramen, featuring a rich, creamy chicken broth. Another highlight is the duck ramen, which utilizes every part of the bird; bones for the broth, and rendered fat for an aromatic oil.
Marmellata Bakery at 29th: A sweet triumph
Topping the Abu Dhabi entries, Marmellata Bakery earned an impressive 29th spot. Nestled in the waterfront Souk Al Mina, this well-known is a pizzeria that breaks away from the typical New York or Napoli-inspired traditions. Instead, it’s 100% Abu Dhabi in its essence.
This no-reservations gem has become a must-visit for pizza lovers, with customers regularly lining up hours before opening to grab a coveted slice. The off-menu offerings are a highlight, making this spot a true pizza hotspot in the UAE capital.
The bakery has long been a favourite for those who appreciate quality and craftsmanship, and this recognition has only amplified its reputation as a must-visit establishment in Abu Dhabi.
La Petite Maison Abu Dhabi at 38th: A taste of France in Abu Dhabi
Landing at 38th on the list is the iconic La Petite Maison Abu Dhabi, which brings the flavours of the French Riviera to the heart of the UAE capital.
LPM Abu Dhabi marked its seventh anniversary in October 2024, solidifying its place in the city’s culinary landscape. In a dining scene as dynamic as Abu Dhabi’s, this is no small achievement.
The restaurant has thrived by maintaining its core principles while adapting to the evolving tastes of its guests, striking the perfect balance between tradition and innovation.
LPM’s spot on the 50 Best list underscores not just its outstanding food, but the role it plays in defining the capital as a go-to destination for international cuisine.
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Niri at 50th: Innovation meets tradition
Rounding off Abu Dhabi’s impressive showing at 50th is Niri, a restaurant that effortlessly blends innovation with tradition.
Niri specialises in contemporary Japanese cuisine, offering a range of high-quality fish and meat dishes at an affordable price. Known for its yakitori and sashimi, the restaurant provides an intimate counter dining experience.
The menu features standout items like corn tempura, tako yakitori, chef’s moriawase (nigiri/sashimi), nihon soba, shio bream, and lamb chops. It’s the perfect place to enjoy expertly crafted dishes that showcase the best of Japanese flavours.
Both cities’ appearance in the ‘50 Best MENA’s Restaurants Awards’ speaks to the growing prominence of the UAE’s food scene on the world stage.
With global tastes and local traditions seamlessly blending in its kitchens, the UAE has firmly established itself as a go-to destination for culinary adventurers.
For further information, visit theworlds50best.com
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