Michelin unveils Abu Dhabi's 2026 dining stars

A total of 56 restaurants in Abu Dhabi have made it to the elite Michelin list, with 11 additions and fine-dining favourites Erth, Hakkasan, and Talea by Antonio Guida retaining their one star status.

The latest edition of the Michelin Guide Abu Dhabi was unveiled during a ceremony at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental. 

Of the 11 additions, three got the Bib Gourmand titles and eight Selected restaurants.

The restaurants recognised in the Bib Gourmand category, awarded for serving exceptional food at great value, were Bua Thai Café, 3Fils Abu Dhabi, and Goldfish.

The 2026 edition also featured special awards - the Young Chef Award went to Villa Toscana at the St Regis, Ray's Grill at Conrad Etihad Towers picked up the Service Award, and 3Fils Abu Dhabi won Opening of The Year.

Newly listed highlights in this year's guide included Antonia, serving up beachside Italian classics on Mamsha Al Saadiyat; Taparelle, offering French-Italian creativity at Manarat Saadiyat; modern Indian street-food restaurant Pincode by Kunal Kapur; Strawfire by Ross Shonhan, with its fiery live-flame Japanese cooking with a DJ twist.; and sunset dining venue Sand & Koal, by the Presidential Palace.

Michelin International Director Gwendal Poullennec said the latest selection "demonstrates that the culinary scene of this vibrant city continues to steadily develop and mature, proving that Abu Dhabi is now not just a cultural capital but a food destination worthy of a special trip.

"As Abu Dhabi’s restaurant landscape evolves, it promises not only exceptional food but also memorable experiences, making the future brighter than ever for this dynamic destination.”

Michelin Stars are awarded to restaurants offering outstanding cooking, taking into account five universal criteria: the quality of the ingredients; the harmony of flavors; the mastery of techniques; the personality of the chef as expressed through their cuisine; and, just as importantly, consistency both across the entire menu and over time.