On Thursday, the second edition of the Michelin Guide Abu Dhabi recognised a total of 46 restaurants, including one new Michelin Star restaurant and two new Bib Gourmand restaurants. This year, the Michelin Guide also handed out two Special Awards: the Michelin Young Chef Award and Opening of the Year Award.
“Our inspectors continue to be impressed by the dynamism of Abu Dhabi and the sheer variety of cuisines on offer. Our newest recipient of a Michelin Star, Erth restaurant, sums up the city so well, as it offers a truly unique experience inspired by the beauty and traditions of the region," says Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of The Michelin Guides.
One new Michelin Star
Erth, located in historic Qasr Al Hosn, received its first Michelin star for refined Emirati dishes executed with a modern twist.
Three restaurants retained their One Michelin Star distinction this year, including Talea by Antonia Guida, 99 Sushi Bar, and Hakkasan Abu Dhabi.
Helmed by chef Luigi Stinga, Talea by Antonio Guida honours Italian classics but with a contemporary take, celebrating family-style cooking or ‘cucina di famiglia’ with quality ingredients sourced from local farms or from Italy itself. 99 Sushi Bar Abu Dhabi is a haute Japanese restaurant with a focus on fresh seafood elevated with contemporary touches. Hakkasan Abu Dhabi, led by Malaysian chef Lee Kok Hua, offers time-honoured Cantonese classics such as Peking duck and dim sum with modern presentation.
Two new Bib Gourmands
The list has increased from four Bib Gourmands last year to six this year, with new additions including Al Mrzab and Oii.
Almayass, Beirut Sur Mer, Otoro and Tazal retained their Bib Gourmand distinction; the award celebrates restaurants and eateries for offering the best value for money within the selection.
Special award winners
This year, Les Dangereux by James Soo Young Kim received Opening of the Year Award, while Rigers Cuka, chef-manager of Oii has been given the Young Chef Award for his talent for cooking and managerial skills.
Newly selected restaurants
A total of nine restaurants were added to the Michelin Guide Abu Dhabi this year: Erth, Ray’s Grill, Yadoo’s House, Maté, José by Pizarro, terra, Kopitiam by Chandy’s, Al Farah and Les Dangereux, covering 21 different types of cuisines in the selection.