Latest news with #DubaiRestaurants
Yahoo
03-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Dubai's booming restaurant scene is feeling the heat of high costs and high failure rates
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — From suspended tables to underwater lounges, some 13,000 food and drink establishments in Dubai pull out all the stops to attract customers in one of the world's most saturated dining markets. They cater to all tastes and budgets. Some spots ladle out inexpensive biryani while others offer dishes dusted with edible gold. These are some of the ways the emirate is competing with its neighbors Saudi Arabia and Qatar for tourist dollars and, so far, it's beating them handily. Dubai has more restaurants per capita than any major city except Paris. But the city-state's booming restaurant scene is testing the limits of its growth-at-all-costs model, raising questions about how long Dubai can keep feeding its own ambitions. A crowded and competitive market The competition is cutthroat, so presentation is key. 'Gone are the days when it just tastes good,' said Kym Barter, the general manager of Atlantis The Palm, a resort perched on a manmade archipelago that boasts more Michelin stars than any other venue in the Middle East. But dazzling Dubai's food bloggers — the most popular of whom have millions of social media followers — isn't enough. Staying afloat means battling high rents and winning over a diverse and demanding group of consumers. Dubai has roughly nine expatriate residents for every Emirati citizen. Most of its private sector workers are migrants on temporary contracts, and only Vatican City has a higher share of foreign-born residents. Tourists, in turn, outnumber locals about five to one by some estimates, and they spend lavishly. Visitors to Dubai drop an average of over five times more than those traveling to nearby Saudi Arabia or even the U.S., according to global restaurant consultant Aaron Allen. Dubai is 'on the right path' to becoming the world's food capital, said Torsten Vildgaard, executive chef at FZN by Björn Frantzén. The restaurant, which runs at more than $540 a head, was one of two in Dubai to nab three Michelin stars in May. 'We're only seeing the tip of the iceberg of what's to come in terms of gastronomy here,' Vildgaard added. With each new set of illuminated high-rises and hotels, another crop of eateries emerge, vying for patrons. The legions of construction workers powering Dubai's progress also need affordable options. That growth, propped up in part by investor pressure on some of the world's biggest chains to expand in Dubai, has created what some analysts warn is a bubble. 'If you're a publicly traded company like Americana, what are you supposed to do — just stop opening restaurants?' restaurant consultant Allen said, referring to the Gulf-based operator of KFC, Pizza Hut and other big franchises. The frenetic expansion of Dubai's restaurant industry is part of a regional shift that has seen Gulf Arab states pour hundreds of billions of dollars into building out tourist destinations as they move away from hydrocarbons to diversify their economies. Saudi Arabia has a high-stakes, $500 billion project: a straight-line futuristic city called Neom. But, in a Muslim-majority region, the United Arab Emirates has gone to lengths that some consider too much of a compromise, including relaxing restrictions on alcohol that fuel its pubs and nightlife and other social reforms. High costs and failure rates The rapid development comes at a price. Dubai's restaurants have a high failure rate, industry veterans say, though local authorities don't say what the rate of closures is. In the downtown district and other prime areas, annual rents for restaurants can top $100 per square foot. That's on a par with some of the world's most expensive cities. Still, the emirate issued almost 1,200 new restaurant licenses last year, according to Dubai's Department of Economy and Tourism. The department declined to respond to questions. Empty tables during peak hours are common, even in top locations. Part of the problem, managers say, is that traffic congestion is so severe that convincing diners to drive out can be a tall task. 'I sometimes go, 'Do I go into the restaurant right now, because I'm going to get into traffic?''' said Waseem Abdul Hameed, operations manager at Ravi, a Pakistani family-owned eatery famous for its official Adidas shoe line and a 2010 TV feature from Anthony Bourdain. He knows restaurateurs who have had to shut up shop and others who are squeezed by slim margins and increasingly reliant on delivery apps, Hameed said. The demand sends fleets of migrant workers racing through gridlock on motorbikes, with few protections and tight delivery windows. Emirati newspaper Khaleej Times reported the accidental deaths of 17 Dubai food couriers last year. The math of Dubai's restaurant scene doesn't add up, delivery apps and wealthy tourists notwithstanding, restaurant consultant Allen said. He cited operating expenses that have more than doubled relative to sales since 2009, when a financial crisis almost hobbled the emirate. Too many Dubai entrepreneurs, he put it simply, have 'too much money, and they don't know what to do besides open restaurants.' Gabe Levin, The Associated Press
Associated Press
03-07-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
Dubai's booming restaurant scene is feeling the heat of high costs and high failure rates
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — From suspended tables to underwater lounges, some 13,000 food and drink establishments in Dubai pull out all the stops to attract customers in one of the world's most saturated dining markets. They cater to all tastes and budgets. Some spots ladle out inexpensive biryani while others offer dishes dusted with edible gold. These are some of the ways the emirate is competing with its neighbors Saudi Arabia and Qatar for tourist dollars and, so far, it's beating them handily. Dubai has more restaurants per capita than any major city except Paris. But the city-state's booming restaurant scene is testing the limits of its growth-at-all-costs model, raising questions about how long Dubai can keep feeding its own ambitions. A crowded and competitive market The competition is cutthroat, so presentation is key. 'Gone are the days when it just tastes good,' said Kym Barter, the general manager of Atlantis The Palm, a resort perched on a manmade archipelago that boasts more Michelin stars than any other venue in the Middle East. But dazzling Dubai's food bloggers — the most popular of whom have millions of social media followers — isn't enough. Staying afloat means battling high rents and winning over a diverse and demanding group of consumers. Dubai has roughly nine expatriate residents for every Emirati citizen. Most of its private sector workers are migrants on temporary contracts, and only Vatican City has a higher share of foreign-born residents. Tourists, in turn, outnumber locals about five to one by some estimates, and they spend lavishly. Visitors to Dubai drop an average of over five times more than those traveling to nearby Saudi Arabia or even the U.S., according to global restaurant consultant Aaron Allen. Dubai is 'on the right path' to becoming the world's food capital, said Torsten Vildgaard, executive chef at FZN by Björn Frantzén. The restaurant, which runs at more than $540 a head, was one of two in Dubai to nab three Michelin stars in May. 'We're only seeing the tip of the iceberg of what's to come in terms of gastronomy here,' Vildgaard added. With each new set of illuminated high-rises and hotels, another crop of eateries emerge, vying for patrons. The legions of construction workers powering Dubai's progress also need affordable options. That growth, propped up in part by investor pressure on some of the world's biggest chains to expand in Dubai, has created what some analysts warn is a bubble. 'If you're a publicly traded company like Americana, what are you supposed to do — just stop opening restaurants?' restaurant consultant Allen said, referring to the Gulf-based operator of KFC, Pizza Hut and other big franchises. The frenetic expansion of Dubai's restaurant industry is part of a regional shift that has seen Gulf Arab states pour hundreds of billions of dollars into building out tourist destinations as they move away from hydrocarbons to diversify their economies. Saudi Arabia has a high-stakes, $500 billion project: a straight-line futuristic city called Neom. But, in a Muslim-majority region, the United Arab Emirates has gone to lengths that some consider too much of a compromise, including relaxing restrictions on alcohol that fuel its pubs and nightlife and other social reforms. High costs and failure rates The rapid development comes at a price. Dubai's restaurants have a high failure rate, industry veterans say, though local authorities don't say what the rate of closures is. In the downtown district and other prime areas, annual rents for restaurants can top $100 per square foot. That's on a par with some of the world's most expensive cities. Still, the emirate issued almost 1,200 new restaurant licenses last year, according to Dubai's Department of Economy and Tourism. The department declined to respond to questions. Empty tables during peak hours are common, even in top locations. Part of the problem, managers say, is that traffic congestion is so severe that convincing diners to drive out can be a tall task. 'I sometimes go, 'Do I go into the restaurant right now, because I'm going to get into traffic?''' said Waseem Abdul Hameed, operations manager at Ravi, a Pakistani family-owned eatery famous for its official Adidas shoe line and a 2010 TV feature from Anthony Bourdain. He knows restaurateurs who have had to shut up shop and others who are squeezed by slim margins and increasingly reliant on delivery apps, Hameed said. The demand sends fleets of migrant workers racing through gridlock on motorbikes, with few protections and tight delivery windows. Emirati newspaper Khaleej Times reported the accidental deaths of 17 Dubai food couriers last year. The math of Dubai's restaurant scene doesn't add up, delivery apps and wealthy tourists notwithstanding, restaurant consultant Allen said. He cited operating expenses that have more than doubled relative to sales since 2009, when a financial crisis almost hobbled the emirate. Too many Dubai entrepreneurs, he put it simply, have 'too much money, and they don't know what to do besides open restaurants.'
Harpers Bazaar Arabia
12-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Harpers Bazaar Arabia
The 10 Best French Dining Restaurants in Dubai
Savour the finest French flavours in Dubai's most stylish and celebrated restaurants From intimate bistros to lavish dining rooms, Dubai's French restaurants deliver the perfect blend of flavour, finesse, and flair. If you're looking to indulge in escargots, truffle-infused plates, or perfectly crafted pastries, these French restaurants in Dubai promise an unforgettable culinary journey. STAY by Yannick Alléno Perfect for special occasions, STAY by Yannick Alléno offers premium French fine dining and a spectacular tasting menu. The winter terrace seating at One&Only The Palm provides a chic vibe with top-notch service. Expect meticulously crafted dishes using exquisite ingredients. It's one of Dubai's best spots for a fine dining anniversary meal. View this post on Instagram A post shared by STAY by Yannick Alléno** (@stay_dubai) Tête-à-Tête A lavish newcomer, Tête-à-Tête impresses with an open kitchen, lavender-canopied ceilings, and a jewellery box-inspired bar in a Baroque-style glass room. The menu leans French Riviera with standout plates like veal Milanese and barbecued whole squid. An ideal pick for a glamorous date night. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tête-à-Tête Dubai (@teteatetedubai) Carine Carine at Emirates Golf Club brings a Mediterranean spirit to French cooking. Chef Izu Ani's sun-soaked spot offers elegant yet simple dishes like burrata salad, linguine aux truffes, and tarte tatin. The bright, garden-like space is perfect for laid-back meals with quality flavours. Location: Emirates Golf Club, Emirates Hills. View this post on Instagram A post shared by carine (@ Josette A glamorous DIFC destination, Josette blends Belle Époque interiors with theatrical French dining. Tableside presentations and showstopping dishes like soupe à l'oignon and crêpes suzette make it a dazzling spot for special nights out. Location: Gate Village 11, DIFC. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Josette Dubai (@josettedubai) L'Atelier de Joël Robuchon This refined DIFC restaurant combines modern design with an open kitchen and flawless French precision. Signature dishes include La Langoustine and black cod with Malabar black pepper sauce. Perfect for those who appreciate artistry on the plate. Location: Gate Village 11, DIFC. View this post on Instagram A post shared by L'Atelier Robuchon Dubaï (@atelier_robuchondubai) Al Muntaha Perched on the 27th floor of Burj Al Arab, Al Muntaha offers French cuisine with a Mediterranean twist under Italian chef Saverio Sbaragli. The restaurant pairs luxe ingredients like truffles and caviar with panoramic sea views and detailed, attentive service. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Al Muntaha at Jumeirah Burj Al Arab (@ Pierre's TT A vibrant modern bistro by chef Pierre Gagnaire, Pierre's TT delivers French classics and contemporary fare in a lively waterfront setting. Terrace tables overlooking Dubai Creek and the Mohammed Bin Rashid Library are a must for the full experience. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Pierre's TT (@pierresdubai) Jardin Des Arts A serene, floral-inspired retreat at Address Montgomerie, Jardin Des Arts channels Provençal elegance with refined French plates and countryside charm. Breakfast favourites include truffled scrambled eggs and pain perdu, while dinner highlights feature butter-poached lobster risotto, foie gras cherries with brioche, and crispy duck leg confit. Rustic woodfired dishes and desserts like lavender crème brûlée and the signature Mont Blanc complete the experience. The venue offers indoor and al fresco seating with curated wines and picturesque lake views. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jardin Des Arts (@jardindesartsdubai) Fouquet's The Dubai outpost of the iconic Parisian brasserie delivers timeless French classics from escargots to beef tartare. The chic space, adorned with celebrity photos, is perfect for lovers of traditional French cuisine. Don't miss the Mille-Feuille Fouquet's, a beautifully balanced pastry with generous cream. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Fouquet's Dubai (@ La Petite Maison Dubai LPM is a global benchmark for French dining and a DIFC staple known for its buzzing atmosphere and exceptional French-Mediterranean dishes. Perfect for business lunches, anniversaries, or casual dinners, favourites include lamb chops, potato gratin, and the gloriously garlicky snails. View this post on Instagram A post shared by 𝐋𝐚 𝐏𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐭𝐞 𝐌𝐚𝐢𝐬𝐨𝐧 𝐃𝐮𝐛𝐚𝐢 🇦🇪 (@lpmdubai)
Travel Daily News
27-05-2025
- Business
- Travel Daily News
Dubai earns its first Three Michelin Stars
The Michelin Guide Dubai 2025 selection also includes two new One Michelin Star restaurants and five new Bib Gourmand restaurants. DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES – Michelin unveiled the fourth edition of its annual Michelin Guide Dubai during a glittering ceremony in Downtown Dubai, which saw the naming of the city's first ever Michelin three-starred restaurants. This year's Michelin Guide Dubai, a dedicated gastronomy guide which features the city's best dining venues and talents, includes a total of 119 restaurants, indicating a 72.5% rise since the Guide's inaugural edition in 2022 when 69 outlets were highlighted. With the results determined by Michelin's inspectors, the increase in selected restaurants reflects Dubai's fast-growing and diverse culinary scene. In addition to the overall increase in selected venues, two restaurants received Three Michelin Stars for the first time since the destination's guide launched in 2022, marking a historical moment in Dubai's culinary scene. This distinction highlights exceptional cuisine, worth a special journey. Having received its first Michelin Star in 2022 and second in 2023, homegrown concept Trèsind Studio, Chef Himanshu Saini's flagship restaurant, is now the first Indian three Michelin Star restaurant in the world. Chef Björn Frantzén, whose restaurants Frantzén (Stockholm, Sweden) and Zén (Singapore) have already been awarded three stars respectively, has added another to his extensive Michelin Star collection with FZN by Björn Frantzén now receiving the accolade. This makes him the only chef in the world to currently hold Three Michelin Stars in three different restaurants simultaneously. The MICHELIN Guide Dubai selection 2025 at a glance: 2 restaurants with Three Michelin Stars (1 Promotion, 1 New) 3 restaurants with Two Michelin Stars 14 restaurants with One MichelinN Star (2 new) 3 restaurants with a Michelin Green Star 22 Bib Gourmand restaurants (5 new) 78 Michelin selected restaurants (15 new) Also among the venues selected in the 2025 edition are three Michelin two-starred restaurants, and 14 Michelin one-starred restaurants, with the city now also home to 22 Bib Gourmand restaurants and three with a Michelin Green Star. Featuring a diverse selection of 35 cuisines, the 119 restaurants featured in the Michelin Guide Dubai 2025 directly underpins the city's vibrant culinary landscape by offering unique dining experiences while also supporting the city's tourism and economic objectives. His Excellency Issam Kazim, CEO of the Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (Visit Dubai), part of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), said: 'The launch of the fourth edition of the Michelin Guide Dubai, including the naming of the city's first Michelin three-starred restaurants, marks another pivotal moment in Dubai's journey as a world-class gastronomic destination, and is a testament to bold innovation, extraordinary talent and culinary distinction.' 'Just as three Michelin stars signify a restaurant that is 'worth a special journey', so the same applies to Dubai as a destination; from celebrated homegrown eateries to globally-renowned names, this vibrant gastronomy landscape truly reflects the diversity and dynamism of a city that always aims to inspire the world.' Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the Michelin Guide, said: 'Dubai's rapid transformation into a global culinary hub is testament to its diversity and excellence. As demonstrated by Trèsind Studio's historic achievement of earning Three Michelin Stars in its fourth appearance – making it the first Indian restaurant worldwide to earn the Guide's highest accolade – Dubai embraces a rich tapestry of flavors that reflect the world's gastronomic passions. With the city now home to 119 Michelin-recommended establishments, it stands as a beacon for food lovers, drawing them to experience the very best of the world's culinary traditions, all within one dynamic destination.' Chef Himanshu Saini, Trèsind Studio,said: 'We are deeply humbled to receive this extraordinary recognition. To be awarded Three Michelin Stars is a testament to our team's unrelenting passion and belief in the power of storytelling through food. Our goal has always been to present Indian cuisine not just as nostalgic but as progressive and worthy of the world's highest culinary Studio can only be Trèsind Studio in Dubai. It cannot be the same in any other city in the world.' Chef Björn Frantzén, FZN by Björn Frantzén, said: 'This recognition is an incredible honour, not just for me, but my entire team. Receiving Three Michelin Stars for FZN is a proud moment for us and reflects the hard work and creativity of everyone involved. We always knew we wanted to launch a restaurant in Dubai, and selecting the right partner was paramount. We are grateful to the Atlantis Dubai team for supporting our journey and helping to bring to life our vision.' Home to thousands of restaurants and F&B outlets, including world-renowned and homegrown brands, Dubai is known for being one of the most impressive culinary capitals across the globe. The diverse landscape caters to a host of varied tastes, preferences and budgets and according to the Dubai Gastronomy Industry Report 2024, the city ranks second only to Paris as the world's leading gastronomy capital, and was also named one of the top 10 cities for foodies to dine in. Celebrating its 125th anniversary this year, the Michelin Guide is one of the world's oldest, and most prestigious culinary authorities. Since its inception, it's been rating restaurants anonymously through a three-star approach, in addition to the introduction of Bib Gourmand which highlights first-class affordable dining options. The Michelin Green Star was introduced five years ago to highlight restaurants prioritising sustainability within their offerings. The city's gastronomic evolution has been among the key driving factors behind its continued tourism growth, with Dubai welcoming 7.15 million international overnight visitors from January to April 2025 – a 7% YoY increase compared to the same period in 2024. Michelin Guide Dubai 2025 selection Three Stars FZN by Björn Frantzén (NEW) Trèsind Studio (PROMOTED) Two Stars Il Ristorante-Niko Romito Row on 45 STAY by Yannick Alléno One Star 11 Woodfire Al Muntaha avatāra Dinner by Heston Blumenthal Hakkasan Hōseki Jamavar (NEW) La Dame de Pic Dubai Manāo (NEW) moonrise Orfali Bros Ossiano Smoked Room Tasca by José Avillez Green Star(s) Boca LOWE Teible Bib Gourmand 21 Grams 3Fils Aamara Al Khayma Heritage Restaurant Bait Maryam Berenjak DUO Gastrobar – Creek Harbour (NEW) DUO Gastrobar – Dubai Hills Goldfish Harummanis (NEW) Hawkerboi (NEW) Hoe Lee Kow Indya by Vineet Khadak (NEW) Kinoya Konjiki Hototogisu REIF Japanese Kushiyaki – Dar Wasl REIF Japanese Kushiyaki – Dubai Hills Revelry Shabestan Sufret Maryam (NEW) Teible Michelin Special Awards 2025 Young Chef Award: Abhiraj Khatwani, Manāo Sommelier Award: Shiv Menon, Boca Service Award: Al Khayma Heritage Restaurant Opening of the Year: Ronin
Gulf Business
25-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Gulf Business
Dubai now has two restaurants with 3 MICHELIN stars, see details
Image: Dubai Media Office/ For illustrative purposes The MICHELIN Guide Dubai 2025 recently unveiled its latest selection at a glitzy event. The fourth edition, announced at the Address Sky View hotel, features 119 establishments across more than 35 cuisine types, reflecting See full list Three MICHELIN Stars awarded to these restaurants For the first time since the guide's inception in 2022, two restaurants have been awarded the prestigious Three MICHELIN Stars, signifying exceptional cuisine worth a special journey. FZN by Björn Frantzén, a new addition to the guide, has earned Three MICHELIN Stars. This destination restaurant marks acclaimed Swedish chef Björn Frantzén's debut in the Middle East, offering a sophisticated experience that blends Scandinavian and Asian influences using the finest luxury ingredients. Trèsind Studio has also been elevated to Three MICHELIN Stars in its fourth appearance in the guide, making history as the first Indian restaurant globally to receive this highest accolade. Chef Himanshu Saini's immersive Indian concept showcases traditional dishes reimagined with creativity and flair, resulting in vibrant and flavorful creations. New One MICHELIN Star Restaurants Two restaurants have been newly awarded One MICHELIN Dubai outpost, located in the Opera district, offers harmonious Indian dishes crafted with prime ingredients, earning it a place in this year's selection. Manāo, led by Dubai-born chef Abhiraj Khatwani, presents an 11-course tasting menu of re-imagined Thai classics. The restaurant's dedication to authentic flavours and innovative presentation has secured its One MICHELIN Star status. With these additions, a total of 14 restaurants in Dubai now hold One MICHELIN Star, highlighting high-quality cooking worth a stop. Five new Bib Gourmand recognitions The Bib Gourmand award, recognising establishments offering great quality and value, has been bestowed upon five new restaurants, bringing the total in Dubai to 22. DUO Gastrobar-Creek Harbour, the second branch of the popular restaurant in Dubai Hills, offers a well-priced menu of refined comfort food. Harummanis, a Malay grill eatery, draws influences from neighboring countries, delivering perfectly spiced and balanced flavors. Hawkerboi, situated in the JLT neighborhood, celebrates the street foods of Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, and Myanmar in a relaxed setting. Khadak, a contemporary Indian brasserie, offers vibrant sharing plates that capture the essence of India's street food. Sufret Maryam, the second venture by Chef Salam Dakkak, presents refined Levantine dishes generous in flavour and portion. Special awards highlight industry excellence The MICHELIN Guide also presented Special Awards to honor outstanding contributions within the hospitality industry. These included: Opening of the Year: Ronin, located in the FIVE LUXE JBR hotel, offers a contemporary Japanese dining experience with bold flavors and pan-Asian decor. Sommelier Award: Shiv Menon of Boca restaurant is recognised for his passionate and knowledgeable approach to wine, supporting the restaurant's sustainable ethos. Service Award: The team at Al Khayma Heritage Restaurant, situated in the Al Fahidi Historical District, is commended for their pride and passion in delivering exceptional service. Young Chef Award: Chef Abhiraj Khatwani of Manāo is honored for his authentic and skillfully balanced Thai dishes, reflecting his enthusiasm and experience.
