During MENA’s 50 Best Restaurants week in Abu Dhabi, food enthusiasts will be treated to an extraordinary culinary experience as renowned chefs collaborate to create unforgettable dining events. This prestigious occasion unfolds from January 31 to February 5, bringing together a remarkable array of global talents and local favorites. Expect collaborative menus, chef takeovers, and unique dining opportunities that will highlight the rich flavors and culinary excellence of the region. For those eager to explore where to eat during MENA’s 50 Best Restaurants week in Abu Dhabi, this week promises a tantalizing lineup.
Kick-Off Event: Flavours of 50 Best
The festivities commence on January 31 with the Flavours of 50 Best at Graphos Social Kitchen, located at Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island. This evening brunch will feature live plating, engaging chef talks, and a vibrant menu steeped in creativity and bold flavors. Among the star-studded lineup, Mitsuharu Micha Tsumura, the chef behind Maido—recently recognized as The World’s Best Restaurant 2025—will showcase his unique take on Nikkei cuisine. Alongside him, Yasmina Hayek, MENA’s Best Female Chef 2025, will bring a contemporary twist to Lebanese dishes.
For dessert aficionados, the evening promises delightful creations from Dej Kewkacha of Gaggan at Louis Vuitton Bangkok, while the bar program is curated by Manja Stankovic from Mimi Kakushi, the best bar in the Middle East. Tickets for this unmissable event are priced at Dhs595 per person. Reservations can be made by calling (02) 208 6900 or emailing [email protected].
Exclusive Chef Collaborations
Abu Dhabi will transform into a culinary hotspot during MENA’s 50 Best Restaurants week, featuring a variety of exclusive Signature Sessions. These one-night-only dinners will showcase chefs cooking alongside local culinary talent, highlighting the artistry of collaboration and the vibrant culture of food. Here’s a glimpse of the exceptional dining experiences awaiting you:
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Bord Eau by Nicolas Isnard x Orfali Bros
Experience a multi-course tasting menu that marries French technique with modern Middle Eastern flavors.
Location: Bord Eau by Nicolas Isnard, Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri
Date: January 31
Cost: Dhs650; Dhs850 with non-alcoholic pairing; Dhs1000 with wine pairing -
Martabaan by Hemant Oberoi x Trèsind Studio
Celebrate progressive Indian cuisine with a collaborative multi-course menu.
Location: Martabaan by Hemant Oberoi, Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental
Date: January 31 at 7pm
Cost: Dhs650 food only, Dhs1,000 with beverage pairing -
NIRI x Alee
Indulge in a Japanese-Jordanian omakase crafted from fresh, innovative dishes.
Location: NIRI, Mamsha Al Saadiyat
Date: February 1 at dinner
Cost: Dhs500 per person -
COYA x Myazu
Enjoy a fusion of Peruvian and Japanese cuisines through a six-course dinner.
Location: COYA Abu Dhabi, The Galleria Al Maryah Island
Date: February 1 from 7pm
Cost: Dhs299 food only, Dhs350 with pairing
Diverse Dining Experiences Await
With even more collaborations showcasing culinary diversity, diners can anticipate delightful takeovers at numerous venues:
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Talea by Antonio Guida x Uliassi
Join for an Italian family-style dinner featuring innovative techniques across six stunning courses.
Location: Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental
Date: February 4 at 7pm
Cost: Dhs750 food only, Dhs1,100 with pairing -
La Petite Maison x Cantina
Experience a four-course dinner that merges Italian pasta dishes with French Riviera influences.
Location: La Petite Maison Abu Dhabi, The Galleria
Date: February 5 at 7pm
Cost: Dhs550
For those looking to savor exceptional culinary creations and immerse themselves in a vibrant food culture, the events during MENA’s 50 Best Restaurants week in Abu Dhabi offer a rare opportunity. With such a remarkable list of experiences, food lovers will find plenty of places to eat during MENA’s 50 Best Restaurants week in Abu Dhabi, ensuring every meal is an unforgettable adventure.