#Abu Dhabi #United Arab Emirates #MENA 50 Best #Orfali Bros

The 2025 MENA's 50 Best Restaurants: A Culinary Showcase

The culinary world gathered in the vibrant city of Abu Dhabi to celebrate the fourth edition of the Middle East & North Africa's 50 Best Restaurants awards, where the esteemed Orfali Bros Bistro was honored as the Best Restaurant in the MENA region for 2025. Emerging from Dubai, this remarkable bistro, founded by the talented Orfali brothers, has made waves in the dining scene ever since its inception in 2021. With a dedicated kitchen led by Chef Mohammad Orfali, the bistro is known for its innovative dishes, marrying Aleppian heritage with the dynamic culinary landscape of Dubai. Standout selections like OB croquettes and shish barak à la gyoza reflect the restaurant’s commitment to creativity and precision.

This year’s ranking featured a diverse representation from 11 cities across the MENA region, ranging from Marrakech to Beirut, Riyadh, and Manama. The list not only recognizes culinary excellence but also highlights the rich tapestry of flavors characteristic of the region's vibrant food culture.

Top contenders included Trèsind Studio in Dubai holding the second position, followed closely by Dubai’s Kinoya and Khufu's in Cairo securing third and fourth places, respectively. The Egyptian establishment also claimed the title of Best Restaurant in Egypt.

Special awards were presented during the ceremony, acknowledging chefs who have shown exceptional talent and innovation. Omar Shihab, recognized as a pivotal figure in the culinary community, received the Icon Award for his impactful work at Boca, which was also awarded the Sustainable Restaurant Award for its commitment to eco-friendly practices.

Tala Bashmi received the Estrella Damm N.A. Chefs' Choice Award as her peers honored her for her profound influence on modern Middle Eastern cuisine. Her approach has redefined Bahraini culinary traditions, showcasing the region's heritage through a contemporary lens. Also commended was Carmen Rueda Hernandez, who was titled the Best Pastry Chef in the region, revered for her exquisite creations that blend technical skill and artistry.

The voting process for this distinguished list involved a panel from the MENA’s 50 Best Restaurants Academy, composed of 250 influential members from the restaurant industry. These members cast votes for their preferred dining establishments, ensuring a credible and well-rounded evaluation of the culinary landscape within the region.

As the culinary community comes together to celebrate this prestigious event, it further underscores the rising stature of gastronomic excellence in the MENA region. The recognition of diverse cuisines at MENA's 50 Best Restaurants not only elevates the chefs and restaurateurs involved but also continues to inspire a global audience to explore the remarkable food culture of the area.

Event highlights:

• - Orfali Bros Bistro emerged again as the leading restaurant, marking its third consecutive year in the top position.
• - The event celebrated the rich culinary heritage present in the region, uniting local traditions with avant-garde dining experiences.
• - Diner enthusiasts and food media were also recognized, showcasing contributions that help curate and elevate the dining landscape.

In conclusion, the 2025 MENA’s 50 Best Restaurants awards not only celebrate culinary achievement but also act as a formidable platform for chefs, gastronomes, and food lovers to connect, share, and flourish in a community dedicated to celebrating culinary artistry and excellence.