MICHELIN Guide Abu Dhabi 2026 Unveils 11 New Restaurants

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 30 (Bernama) -- The MICHELIN Guide Abu Dhabi 2026 has unveiled its fourth edition, showcasing the city’s evolving culinary scene with 11 new restaurants, including three Bib Gourmand awardees for exceptional food at great value, and three establishments retaining their One MICHELIN Star distinctions.

The MICHELIN Guide International Director, Gwendal Poullennec said the selection reflects Abu Dhabi’s growing sophistication and diversity, offering cuisines from Italian and Japanese to Khaleeji-inspired and innovative fusion concepts.

“The addition of new Bib Gourmand distinctions and the retention of One MICHELIN Star awards further underscore the city’s commitment to excellence and creativity in gastronomy,” he said in a statement.

MICHELIN Stars are awarded to restaurants offering outstanding cooking, based on five universal criteria, namely the quality of the ingredients, the harmony of flavours, the mastery of techniques, the personality of the chef as expressed through their cuisine, and consistency across the menu and over time.

Meanwhile, the Bib Gourmand award highlights restaurants within the selection that offer good-quality food at a great price.

Three new Bib Gourmand awards go to Bua Thai Café, which offers a cosy and colourful escape for lovers of authentic Thai cuisine; 3Fils Abu Dhabi, located at Al Bateen Marina with a large, contemporary Japanese eatery spread over three floors; and Goldfish, offering a selection of sushi, tasty skewers, and larger dishes such as ramen, Wagyu sliders, and spicy noodles.

Eight new restaurants added to the Guide’s selection are Cipriani Dolci, Antonia, Novikov Abu Dhabi, Villa Mamas, Taparelle, Pincode by Kunal Kapur, Strawfire by Ross Shonhan, and Sand & Koal. Each restaurant brings its own unique flair to Abu Dhabi’s vibrant culinary landscape, contributing to the city’s growing reputation as a world-class dining destination.

Through its Special Awards, The MICHELIN Guide shines a spotlight on outstanding contributions across hospitality, honouring the industry’s most gifted and motivated individuals. The Young Chef Award goes to Villa Toscana, Ray’s Grill receives the Service Award, and the Opening of the Year Award is presented to 3Fils Abu Dhabi.

-- BERNAMA