15 min
In a scene straight out of a gourmet fairy tale, the who's who of the culinary world converged in the buzzing ballroom of the iconic Burj Al Arab Jumeirah for the most anticipated gala of the year – the Gault&Millau UAE Awards.
As the evening unfolded, the spotlight shone brightly on the crème de la crème of the hospitality industry, celebrating excellence, innovation, and, of course, the love for good food and fine dining.
The excitement peaked as the coveted toques were bestowed upon the deserving winners. With scores soaring higher than a soufflé, restaurants earned their stripes, flaunting one, two, three, or even four toques with pride. Three esteemed establishments basked in the glory of clinching the prestigious four-toque honor, a testament to their culinary mastery.
The soirée kicked off in style with an opening address from none other than the illustrious CEO of ITP Media Group, Ali Akawi. His words echoed the sentiment of the evening – a celebration of creativity, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of culinary perfection.
And the winners are…
SUSTAINABLE KITCHEN OF THE YEAR
WINNER
Atlantis Dubai
Atlantis Dubai stands out as a beacon of sustainability in the UAE hospitality scene. Through the Atlantis Atlas Project, they've invested a whopping US$500,000 into green initiatives, leading to significant shifts in their operations to combat waste and emissions. With the implementation of cutting-edge Winnow AI technology, they've slashed food waste by a staggering 40%, while also ditching over two million plastic water bottles in favor of reusable glassware. But that's not all – they've taken it a step further by establishing their own on-site water filtration and bottling facility and embracing solar power with the installation of solar panels. Oh, and did I mention they're also big-hearted? They regularly donate food and linen to local charities and have even earned the prestigious IBCCES Certified Autism Centre designation. Now that's what I call sustainability with a heart!
Shortlist
Atlantis Dubai, Palm Jumeirah
BOCA, DIFC
Celebrities by Mauro Colagreco, One&Only Royal Mirage
Cinque, FIVE Palm Jumeirah
Sofitel The Obelisk, Wafi
BREAKTHROUGH RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR
WINNER
Row on 45
Where restaurants often sparkle momentarily before fading into the background, few establishments endure the test of time. Enter Jason Atherton, a seasoned figure in the city's dining scene, with experiences ranging from Gordon Ramsay's Verre to his own Marina Social. With a deep understanding of Dubai's F&B intricacies, Atherton's latest venture, Row on 45, represents a bold statement of confidence in both concept and team. This intimate 22-seater, offering a sumptuous 17-course degustation menu, redefines fine dining with its meticulous presentation and gastronomic finesse, all orchestrated by Atherton's exceptional chefs at the table.
In a city where culinary excellence is the norm, Row on 45 stands out by not just meeting expectations but exceeding them. Across three elegant rooms, each dish tells a story of culinary mastery, setting a new standard for Dubai's dining scene. With every bite, diners embark on an unforgettable journey, elevating their dining experience to unparalleled heights in the vibrant heart of the city.
Shortlist
Eugène Eugène, Kempinski Mall of the Emirates
Ikra Caviar Bar, Bluewaters
Row on 45, Grosvenor House Dubai, A Luxury Collection Hotel
TERO, Dubai Hills Business Park
The Guild, ICD Brookfield Place
HOMEGROWN RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR
WINNER
Al Muntaha
At a dizzying 200 meters above sea level, Al Muntaha lives up to its name, translating to 'the ultimate' or 'the top' with every exquisite detail. Nestled within Dubai's iconic Burj Al Arab Jumeirah, this fine-dining gem isn't just soaring in altitude but also in culinary prowess. Crowned Homegrown Restaurant of the Year in 2024, its ascent didn't stop there, as it climbed from a rating of 17 in 2023 to a dazzling 17.5, clinching the coveted title of Restaurant of the Year.
Specializing in a divine fusion of French and Italian cuisine, crafted by a brigade of culinary virtuosos under the helm of Saverio Sbaragli, Al Muntaha epitomizes the hotel's unwavering dedication to culinary excellence. Each dish is a work of art, meticulously prepared with the finest ingredients and executed with unparalleled technique. And it's not just the chefs who steal the show – the front-of-house team, with their impeccable service, elevate every dining experience to a symphony of perfection. At Al Muntaha, dining isn't just a meal; it's a breathtaking journey to the pinnacle of gastronomic delight.
Shortlist
Al Muntaha, Burj Al Arab Jumeirah
Moonrise, Eden House
Ossiano, Atlantis, The Palm
TakaHisa, Banyan Tree Dubai
Trèsind Studio, Nakheel Mall
INTERNATIONAL BRAND OF THE YEAR
WINNER
L’Atelier Robuchon
In 2023, the three-toque-rated L’Atelier Robuchon underwent a delightful revamp. Under fresh management, the French eatery, once graced by the legendary Joël Robuchon, infused new life into its ambiance, bar, and menu, introducing approachable yet tantalizing dishes. Led by the exceptional General Manager Alexandre Tissot, service shines, while Executive Chef Robert Torre, a pupil of Robuchon, ensures culinary excellence. With every improvement, L’Atelier Robuchon continues to elevate its legacy, promising an ever-evolving dining experience.
Shortlist
Dinner by Heston Blumenthal, Atlantis The Royal
L’Atelier Robuchon, DIFC
LPM Restaurant & Bar, Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi & DIFC
Ristorante L’Olivo at Al Mahara, Burj Al Arab
STAY by Yannick Alléno, One&Only Palm Jumeirah
NON-ALCOHOLIC OFFERING OF THE YEAR
WINNER
Krasota
Krasota Dubai, a pioneering venture from the Russian White Rabbit Family, introduces a groundbreaking 'gastro-theatre' concept. This innovative dining affair seamlessly blends visual artistry with haute cuisine, creating an enchanting spectacle that evolves with the seasons.
Guests are whisked into an immersive journey starting with pre-dinner libations in a chic bar, complemented by tantalizing amuse-bouches. Once seated in the 'theatre', a maximum of 20 diners embark on a culinary odyssey where each course of the tasting menu is accompanied by a synchronized visual performance. From wines to cocktails and mocktails, every beverage is thoughtfully paired to enhance the dining experience. Notably, the non-alcoholic pairings stand out as the epitome of sophistication, meticulously crafted with premium ingredients to mirror their alcoholic counterparts in both presentation and flavor.
Shortlist
Avatara, Dubai Hills
Dinner by Heston Blumenthal, Atlantis The Royal
Krasota, Downtown Dubai
Jun’s, Downtown Dubai
Orfali Bros. Bistro, Wasl51
WINE OFFERING OF THE YEAR
WINNER
Dinner by Heston Blumenthal
Once again, Dinner by Heston Blumenthal secures the prestigious Wine Offering of the Year accolade for the second consecutive year. Since its inception in early 2023, this esteemed fine-dining establishment nestled within Atlantis The Royal has consistently wowed patrons with its ingenious culinary creations, rooted in centuries-old British recipes.
Central to its allure is an unparalleled wine cellar, meticulously curated by the resort's wine director and Dinner's sommelier, Arturo Scamardella. Boasting an extensive selection, the cellar showcases a remarkable array of wines, ranging from artisanal labels to globally renowned vintages. Whether seeking hidden gems from independent producers or iconic classics, Dinner's wine list promises an unparalleled journey through oenological delights.
Shortlist
Al Muntaha, Burj Al Arab Jumeirah
Chic Nonna, DIFC
City Social, Grosvenor House Dubai, A Luxury Collection Hotel
CLAP, DIFC
Dinner by Heston Blumenthal, Atlantis The Royal
Il Borro Tuscan Bistro, Jumeirah Al Naseem
Il Ristorante – Niko Romito, Bvlgari Hotel Dubai
Ossiano, Atlantis, The Palm
Ristorante L’Olivo by at Al Mahara, Burj Al Arab Jumeirah
STAY by Yannick Alléno, One&Only Palm Jumeirah
CHAMPAGNE OFFERING OF THE YEAR
WINNER
Chic Nonna
Chic Nonna, nestled in Dubai's DIFC and boasting a coveted one-toque rating, clinches the title of having the nation's premier Champagne selection, as revealed by the second edition of the Gault&Millau UAE Champagne Index.
To compile this esteemed index, the Gault&Millau team meticulously scoured Champagne lists from restaurants awarded one or more toques in the Gault&Millau UAE Guide 2023. Each bottle was meticulously cataloged by producer, variant, vintage, and price to determine rankings based on variety, vintage availability, and value for money.
Emerging as the victor among 51 esteemed contenders, Chic Nonna at DIFC's Index Tower stands out for its exceptional offerings. With an impressive selection of 36 non-vintage Champagnes and an additional 19 vintages, complemented by nine large formats, the restaurant showcases unparalleled variety. However, it's the remarkable value that propels Chic Nonna to the forefront, with bottles consistently ranking among the top three for affordability across varieties and producers.
Operated by the esteemed Mine&Yours Group, Chic Nonna is not just a culinary delight but a stylish Italian haven under the expert management of Massimo Fonte. With new head chef Francesco Torcasio at the helm, alongside executive chef Giuseppe Pezzella, Chic Nonna promises an unforgettable gastronomic experience fused with Italian flair and sophistication.
Shortlist
Al Muntaha, Burj Al Arab Jumeirah
Chic Nonna, DIFC
CLAP, DIFC
Dinner by Heston Blumenthal, Atlantis The Royal
LPM Restaurant & Bar, Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi & DIFC
Ossiano, Atlantis, The Palm
Pierre’s TT, InterContinental Dubai Festival City
Ristorante L’Olivo at Al Mahara, Burj Al Arab Jumeirah
Row on 45, Grosvenor House Dubai, A Luxury Collection Hotel
TakaHisa, Banyan Tree Dubai
PASTRY CHEF OF THE YEAR
WINNER
Christophe Devoille, Atlantis The Royal
At Atlantis The Royal, Christophe Devoille commands a team of nearly 50 culinary artisans, tirelessly ensuring the luxury hotel's F&B outlets offer top-tier pastry delights from dawn till dusk.
A maestro in his domain, Devoille unveiled a new afternoon tea sensation at The Royal Tearoom in 2023, while overseeing the breakfast spread at Gastronomy, featuring an impressive array of 15 croissant varieties, Danish pastries, brioches, and 12 distinct bread types for the resort's 17 dining establishments. Additionally, he curates an extensive selection of handcrafted desserts, ranging from waffles to crepes, coupes, glacees, popsicles, and an assortment of ice creams and sorbets for the resort's signature restaurants.
Throughout these endeavors, Devoille sets the standard through his exemplary leadership and unwavering commitment to culinary excellence.
Shortlist
Christophe Devoille, Atlantis The Royal
Jermaine Cunningham, Dinner by Heston Blumenthal
Joaquin Riesco, L’Atelier Robuchon
Romain Castet, Sofitel Dubai The Obelisk
Tom Coll, Burj Al Arab Jumeirah
SOMMELIER OF THE YEAR
WINNER
Samuel Lacroix, Burj Al Arab Jumeirah
For the second consecutive year, Samuel Lacroix, the esteemed wine director of Burj Al Arab, clinches the coveted title of Sommelier of the Year.
With an illustrious career spanning over two decades, Lacroix has infused his vast wine expertise into Burj Al Arab Jumeirah since April 2022. During his tenure, he has left an indelible mark on the hotel's wine offerings, introducing a diverse selection that includes rare vintages befitting the establishment's opulence. Notably, in 2023, Lacroix enhanced the cellar with a prestigious 1990 Domaine de la Romanée-Conti, priced at AED285,000.
Beyond his role at Burj Al Arab, Lacroix is a prominent figure in the Élite Sommelier UAE Group, championing the advancement of the UAE's wine culture. His influential voice and unwavering dedication continue to shape the local wine scene, earning him well-deserved recognition as a leader in the field.
Shortlist
Arturo Scamardella, Dinner by Heston Blumenthal
Giorgio Piciollo, Chic Nonna
Gregg Lambert, LPM Restaurant & Bar
Lorenzo Abussi, City Social House
Samuel Lacroix, Burj Al Arab Jumeirah
RESTAURANT MANAGER OF THE YEAR
WINNER
Jonathan White, Dinner by Heston Blumenthal
In the UAE, skilled general managers and restaurant managers are a rarity, with many establishments overlooking their importance in maintaining a smooth dining experience.
However, top-tier venues recognize the invaluable role of a stellar GM. They not only streamline operations but also provide reassurance during hectic service periods, leaving a lasting impression on both staff and guests.
Jonathan White exemplifies this caliber at Dinner by Heston Blumenthal. With nine years of experience, he transitioned from the restaurant's original London location to Dubai in 2021, joining the pre-opening team at Atlantis The Royal. Known for his expertise, composure, and engaging demeanor, White embodies the essence of exceptional management, ensuring each guest's experience is nothing short of remarkable.
Shortlist
Alexandre Tissot, L’Atelier Robuchon
Hervé Lorit, Pierre’s TT
Jonathan White, Dinner by Heston Blumenthal
Liam Paisley, City Social House
Neal Testoni, Al Muntaha
FUTURE GREAT OF THE YEAR
WINNER
Spencer Metzger, Row on 45
Spencer Metzger embarked on his culinary journey at just 15, honing his skills in the esteemed kitchens of The Ritz, London, before rising to the rank of sous chef. After a stint at the renowned L’Enclume, where he further refined his craft, Metzger's talent was recognized with prestigious accolades like the Roux Scholarship and the Master of Culinary Arts title. Joining Row on 45 in Dubai under Jason Atherton's wing, Metzger's vibrant personality and culinary finesse have left an indelible mark on the restaurant's 17-course tasting menu, showcasing his prowess both in the kitchen and in engaging guests. Undoubtedly, this young chef is poised for culinary greatness.
Shortlist
Aurelién Durand, Ossiano
Bojan Cirjanic, Folly
Omaka Marie, NIRI Restaurant & Bar
Spencer Metzger, Row on 45
Yannis Sgard, Eugène Eugène
CHEF OF THE YEAR
WINNER
Saverio Sbaragli, Al Muntaha
Taking the helm at Al Muntaha in 2021, Chef Saverio Sbaragli has propelled the iconic restaurant at Burj Al Arab Jumeirah to new heights. With a background in French fine dining and Italian cuisine, he has revolutionized the gastronomic landscape of the hotel.
Arriving in Dubai with a wealth of experience alongside culinary luminaries like Alain Ducasse and Alain Passard, Sbaragli aimed to elevate Dubai’s dining scene to European standards. His dedication bore fruit with Al Muntaha earning a rating of 15 in the 2022 guide, rising to 17 in 2023 and clinching a fourth toque, a feat achieved by only two restaurants.
This year, his relentless pursuit of excellence garnered Al Muntaha a rating of 17.5 and prestigious accolades as Restaurant of the Year and Home-grown Restaurant of the Year. Sbaragli's meticulous attention to detail, impeccable ingredient selection, and artful plating ensure each dish from his kitchen is nothing short of exceptional, a testament to his unwavering commitment to the culinary craft.
Shortlist
Daniel Birk, City Social House
Grégoire Berger, Ossiano
Roberto Torre, L’Atelier Robuchon
Saverio Sbaragli, Al Muntaha
Tom Allen, Dinner by Heston Blumenthal
13 min
