In yet another proud moment for the region’s dynamic culinary scene, Dubai has made headlines as two of its standout restaurants were officially named among the World’s 50 Best Restaurants for 2025. This recognition not only reaffirms Dubai’s position as a global dining destination but also highlights the power of cultural fusion and bold innovation in the kitchen.
The much-anticipated list, known for spotlighting the most extraordinary dining experiences worldwide, unveiled its 2025 rankings this week. It brought remarkable news for food lovers and industry insiders in the UAE, with Orfali Bros securing the 37th spot and Trèsind Studio soaring to 27th place.
Let’s dive into the story behind these incredible restaurants and what makes them both uniquely deserving of this global honor.
Orfali Bros: A Culinary Celebration of Syrian Heritage in Dubai
When it comes to storytelling through food, few places in Dubai do it quite like Orfali Bros. The restaurant, founded by three brothers from Aleppo, Syria — Mohamad, Wassim, and Omar Orfali — has quickly carved a niche for itself in a city teeming with luxury dining options.
At its heart, Orfali Bros is about blending tradition with reinvention. The restaurant is known for celebrating the rich, comforting flavors of Syria while skillfully introducing influences from across the Middle East, Asia, and Europe. The result is a modern, playful, and heartfelt dining experience that leaves guests intrigued and satisfied in equal measure.
Mohamad Orfali, the head chef and creative force behind the kitchen, has long believed in preserving the essence of his roots while embracing the diversity of Dubai’s culinary scene. Together with his brothers, both accomplished pastry chefs, the trio has designed a menu that defies easy categorization.
Breaking Boundaries with Every Dish
What makes Orfali Bros truly special is its fearless approach to flavor combinations. From traditional Syrian staples elevated with global techniques to dishes that seamlessly marry pan-regional favorites, the menu is a living, breathing reflection of Dubai itself — multicultural, bold, and always evolving.
Signature dishes such as their Aleppian kebabs with Asian-inspired glazes or Middle Eastern pastries reinvented with European techniques are not only visually stunning but packed with flavors that tell a story of heritage and exploration.
The restaurant also holds a Michelin star, a testament to its unwavering commitment to quality and innovation.
A Family Dream Turned Global Triumph
For the Orfali brothers, this latest recognition as one of the World’s 50 Best Restaurants is a deeply personal triumph. It’s about more than awards; it’s about representing Syria’s rich culinary history on a world stage and sharing it with the multicultural melting pot that is Dubai.
“It’s about love, culture, and the memories we carry from our homeland,” Mohamad often shares. “Food is a universal language, and we’re honored to speak it through our dishes.”
With its unique blend of warmth, authenticity, and bold creativity, Orfali Bros continues to be a favorite among locals and global food travelers alike.
Trèsind Studio: Redefining Modern Indian Dining at The Palm
If there’s one name that’s been making waves in Dubai’s fine dining landscape over the last few years, it’s Trèsind Studio. Under the leadership of visionary chef Himanshu Saini, the restaurant has consistently pushed boundaries, transforming the way diners experience Indian cuisine.
In the 2025 edition of the World’s 50 Best Restaurants list, Trèsind Studio claimed the 27th position, a remarkable feat that reflects both its unwavering quality and global acclaim. But perhaps even more impressively, it was also crowned The Best Restaurant in the Middle East for 2025 — a title that solidifies its status as a culinary beacon not just in Dubai but across the region.
A Journey Through Flavors, Heritage, and Innovation
Dining at Trèsind Studio isn’t just a meal; it’s an immersive journey. The restaurant is intimate, offering just 20 exclusive seats in its newly relocated venue at The Palm Jumeirah. This intimate setup allows guests to connect closely with the culinary experience, often moving between different parts of the restaurant as they progress through a meticulously crafted tasting menu.
The concept is driven by chef Himanshu Saini’s vision of celebrating India’s diverse regional flavors while presenting them through a modern, globally appealing lens. Each dish on the menu pays homage to traditional recipes, reimagined with avant-garde techniques and playful presentations.
Three Michelin Stars, Endless Inspiration
Trèsind Studio proudly boasts three Michelin stars, an achievement that speaks volumes about its consistency, creativity, and dedication to culinary excellence. Chef Himanshu describes the latest accolade as a celebration of his team’s passion and a reflection of the evolving global perception of Indian cuisine.
“Being named #27 in The World’s 50 Best Restaurants is a celebration of the team, our culture, and the flavors that inspire everything we do,” says Himanshu. “This honor reinforces our belief that modern Indian cuisine belongs on the world stage while staying true to our heritage.”
Signature dishes like the modern interpretation of chaat or the exquisitely presented lentil stew with edible flowers are perfect examples of how Trèsind Studio takes comfort food and turns it into edible art.
A Big Win for Dubai’s Food Scene
For a city known for its ever-evolving culinary scene, these recognitions are a significant milestone. Dubai has long been home to a melting pot of cultures, and its restaurant scene reflects that diversity, embracing cuisines from every corner of the globe.
The inclusion of both Orfali Bros and Trèsind Studio in the World’s 50 Best Restaurants 2025 list is a powerful statement about the city’s ability to foster creativity and excellence in the culinary arts.
It also highlights how chefs in Dubai are not just replicating global trends but leading them, combining deep respect for heritage with fearless experimentation.
Why This Matters: More Than Just a Ranking
Beyond the obvious prestige, being included in the World’s 50 Best Restaurants list offers opportunities for these establishments to attract a global audience, collaborate with international chefs, and further elevate the Middle Eastern and Indian culinary narratives.
For young chefs and aspiring restaurateurs in the region, the success of Orfali Bros and Trèsind Studio is a clear message: dream big, innovate boldly, and never forget where you come from.
These recognitions also remind diners that food is more than sustenance — it’s a cultural bridge, a canvas for storytelling, and a way to bring people together.
What’s Next for Orfali Bros and Trèsind Studio?
Both restaurants show no signs of slowing down. Trèsind Studio continues to evolve its seasonal tasting menus, exploring lesser-known regional flavors from India and pairing them with global techniques. The team plans to host a series of international chef collaborations later this year, bringing some of the world’s best culinary talents to Dubai.
Meanwhile, Orfali Bros has hinted at plans to expand its pastry program, possibly launching a dedicated dessert tasting menu — a move that would undoubtedly thrill fans of its already legendary sweets.
Final Thoughts: A Celebration of Culture, Passion, and Culinary Art
The inclusion of Orfali Bros and Trèsind Studio in the World’s 50 Best Restaurants 2025 list is more than just a win for these two remarkable establishments. It’s a victory for Dubai, for the Middle East, and for the countless chefs who dare to dream, innovate, and honor their roots while embracing the future.
In a world where culinary trends come and go, these restaurants remind us that authenticity, creativity, and passion never go out of style.
So whether you’re a Dubai local, a global foodie, or someone who appreciates the transformative power of a good meal, these two dining destinations deserve a spot at the very top of your must-visit list.
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