Abu Dhabi’s gastronomic scene sparkles with new awards, fresh stars, and impressive culinary additions for 2025
The MICHELIN Guide Abu Dhabi has officially launched its third edition, highlighting the city’s most noteworthy dining establishments!
This prestigious guide continues to showcase the evolving culinary landscape in Abu Dhabi, revealing five new restaurant entries, two new Bib Gourmand distinctions, and all current MICHELIN-starred venues maintaining their awards.
Current MICHELIN Stars hold their sparkle
In a city where culinary innovation meets tradition, Abu Dhabi’s four MICHELIN-starred restaurants – Erth, 99 Sushi Bar, Hakkasan, and Talea by Antonio Guida – have retained their acclaimed stars.
These establishments have demonstrated remarkable consistency, impressing MICHELIN inspectors with their dedication to culinary excellence.
With talented teams and distinctive menus, they continue to elevate Abu Dhabi’s reputation as a culinary hub.
Which restaurants made the exciting new additions to the MICHELIN Guide Abu Dhabi 2025?
This year, five new restaurants have earned a place in the MICHELIN Guide, each offering unique dining experiences. They are:
– Mika – A vibrant Yas Marina spot showcasing Mediterranean flavours.
– Bord Eau by Nicolas Isnard – A slice of classic French dining.
– Em Sherif Sea Café – Authentic Lebanese flavours at their best.
– Broadway – A modern American brasserie within Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental.
– ryba – Local fish specialties grilled to perfection over charcoal.
Both Mika and ryba received the Bib Gourmand distinction for offering great value in high-quality, flavourful dishes.
You might also like: Win tickets to the MICHELIN Guide Food Festival Abu Dhabi 2024
Mika’s Mediterranean menu and ryba’s affordable seafood specialties have earned them a spot alongside other ‘Bib’ favorites such as t’azal, Al Mrzab, Beirut Sur Mer, Otoro, and Almayass.
Special awards recognising Culinary Talent and Service
The MICHELIN Guide’s Special Awards this year shine a spotlight on rising stars and exceptional service.
The Young Chef Award was awarded to 28-year-old Yasmina Hayek of Em Sherif Sea Café.
Building on her family’s culinary legacy, Yasmina has impressed with her authentic Lebanese dishes and vision for a younger audience, all while upholding impeccable quality.
The Welcome and Service Award went to the team at Mika.
Known for their warm, attentive service led by Chef-Owner Mario Loi, the staff at Mika make every guest feel at home, providing an unforgettable dining experience from start to finish.
Opening of the Year: ryba
Taking the Opening of the Year award is ryba, a hidden gem located in Al Mina souq.
With a focus on fresh, local fish sourced from the nearby Zayed Port, Chef-Owner Faisal Mohamed Alharmoodi’s passion shines through in every dish.
The restaurant’s dedication to quality and local ingredients has captured the attention of both guests and inspectors.
Abu Dhabi’s rising culinary scene
Reflecting on the latest edition, MICHELIN Guides International Director Gwendal Poullennec praised the exceptional culinary achievements across Abu Dhabi, highlighting its exciting potential as a top culinary destination.
He noted the high standards and commitment to excellence demonstrated by local chefs, expressing confidence that Abu Dhabi’s culinary scene will continue to thrive.
The MICHELIN Guide Abu Dhabi 2025 cements the city’s status as a gastronomic destination, celebrating the diversity, talent, and creativity of its culinary community.
Follow Yalla for all the latest dining offers in Abu Dhabi
