Three Abu Dhabi Restaurants Retain Michelin Stars in the Guide for 2026

The Michelin Guide Abu Dhabi 2026 was unveiled at a dazzling ceremony held at the Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental on Thursday, marking the guide’s fourth edition and celebrating the capital’s growing reputation as a global dining destination.

The highlight of the evening was the announcement that three acclaimed restaurants — Erth, Hakkasan, and Talea by Antonio Guida — retained their coveted Michelin stars, reaffirming their position among the best culinary experiences in the region.

Each Michelin star is awarded based on rigorous criteria that include ingredient quality, harmony of flavors, consistency across the menu, and the expression of the chef’s personality through their cuisine.

For these Abu Dhabi favorites, the recognition reflects not only technical excellence but also a dedication to storytelling through food — from the Emirati-inspired dishes at Erth to the refined Cantonese plates of Hakkasan and the modern Italian artistry of Talea.

Beyond the star-studded list, the 2026 guide also recognized 10 restaurants under the Bib Gourmand category, which celebrates establishments that serve exceptional food at moderate prices.

Bua Thai Café, Goldfish, and 3Fils Abu Dhabi joined the list for the first time this year, with 3Fils Abu Dhabi also winning the prestigious Opening of the Year Award, presented to Chef Jun Kamiyama. Returning favorites that retained their Bib Gourmand distinction include Almayass, Al Mrzab, Beirut Sur Mer, Mika, Otoro, Ryba, and Tazal, underscoring the consistency and quality of Abu Dhabi’s mid-range dining scene.

The awards evening also celebrated individual talent. Chef Vittorio Nania from Villa Toscana took home the Young Chef Award, earning applause for his passion and perseverance.

Meanwhile, Chef Ricardo Bout from Ray’s Grill at Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers received the Michelin Service Award for his outstanding hospitality and service, an acknowledgement of the restaurant’s exceptional guest experience and panoramic ambiance.

In addition to the star and Bib Gourmand categories, the guide introduced several “Selected” restaurants, highlighting those recommended for their quality and creativity.

New entries to this year’s selection include Antonia, Cipriani Dolci, Novikov Abu Dhabi, Pinched by Kunal Kapur, Sand & Koal, Strawfire by Ross Shonhan, Taparelle, and Villa Mamas. Long-standing favorites such as Zuma, Li Beirut, Coya, Butcher & Still, Fouquet’s, Oak Room, Tean, and Punjab Grill successfully maintained their place on the list, reflecting Abu Dhabi’s diverse and evolving gastronomic landscape.