The highly anticipated MICHELIN Guide Abu Dhabi 2026 has officially been revealed — and while no new restaurants earned a star this year, the capital’s dining scene still shines bright with new Bib Gourmand and Selected restaurant entries. From beachside Italian spots to fiery Japanese kitchens, here’s everything you need to know about this year’s full lineup.
One MICHELIN Star Restaurants
No new stars this year — but three shining favorites kept their sparkle. Erth (Emirati / Modern), Hakkasan (Chinese), and Talea by Antonio Guida (Italian) all held onto their coveted MICHELIN Stars, proving that consistency really is the secret ingredient.
Bib Gourmand Restaurants
“Good quality food at a great price” — that’s what the Bib Gourmand is all about. This year, Abu Dhabi welcomed three new additions to this category, bringing in more variety and global flavors.
3Fils Abu Dhabi – Japanese Contemporary
Bib Gourmand
Spread over three stylish floors, 3Fils Abu Dhabi offers a laid-back yet buzzing atmosphere with chefs in baseball caps cooking up creative Japanese-inspired plates. Don’t miss the chargrilled baby chicken, prawns and sashimi, and of course, their famous dessert — Take Me To The Moon, a chocolate lover’s fantasy.
Bua Thai Café – Thai
Bib Gourmand
Tucked inside a massive retail complex on Yas Island, Bua Thai Café is a cozy, colorful spot serving up heartwarming Thai comfort food. From steamed hagao and green curry chicken to the ultimate mango sticky rice, it’s authentic, simple, and delicious.
Goldfish – Japanese Contemporary
Bib Gourmand
Located in the heart of Marina Mall, Goldfish is a creation of MICHELIN-starred Chef Akmal Anuar. The space is stylish, the vibe is upbeat, and the food — from sushi and ramen to Wagyu sliders — is vibrant and generous. It’s modern Japanese comfort done right, and the portions make it one of the best-value meals in town.
MICHELIN Selected Restaurants
These are the restaurants that caught the MICHELIN inspectors’ attention for their quality, atmosphere, and creativity — even if they haven’t (yet) earned a Bib or Star.
Antonia – Italian
MICHELIN Selected
Beach views, sourdough pizza, and family legacy — Antonia is the epitome of Italian warmth on Mamsha Al Saadiyat. Every square-shaped slice is made from a 50-year-old sourdough starter passed down from Grandma Antonia herself. From carpaccio to tiramisu, this seaside gem is a slice of Italian nostalgia.
Cipriani Dolci – Italian
MICHELIN Selected
Situated in Marina Mall, Cipriani Dolci brings Venetian elegance to everyday dining. Open from breakfast through dinner, it’s perfect for a stylish pause while shopping. Expect pizzas, patisseries, and house-made gelato — all served in a space inspired by the iconic Harry’s Bar in Venice.
Novikov Abu Dhabi – Mediterranean
MICHELIN Selected
A global name with local flair, Novikov Abu Dhabi (at The Galleria, Al Maryah Island) celebrates Mediterranean cuisine with finesse. Think King Crab Salad, Dover Sole Meunière, and Pizza Tartufo, complemented by live piano music. It’s refined yet approachable — ideal for a long lunch or elegant dinner.
Pincode by Kunal Kapur – Indian
MICHELIN Selected
Celebrity chef Kunal Kapur’s Pincode blends nostalgia and innovation. Housed in The Galleria, it reimagines India’s regional street food through an upscale lens. From North to South, every dish tells a story — of memories, family recipes, and the “pincodes” that connect India’s culinary soul.
Sand & Koal – Modern Cuisine
MICHELIN Selected
Perched beachside with dreamy views of the Presidential Palace, Sand & Koal is as romantic as it gets. Known for its woodfire cooking, this modern restaurant serves steaks, seafood platters, and decadent desserts like smoked chocolate mousse. Come for the sunset, stay for the fire-kissed flavors.
Strawfire by Ross Shonhan – Japanese Contemporary
MICHELIN Selected
Australian chef Ross Shonhan’s fiery debut in Abu Dhabi, Strawfire, is an experience for all senses. With open flames, live DJ beats, and the Japanese Warayaki technique (where dishes are briefly “kissed” by burning straw), the atmosphere is electric. Don’t miss the miso-glazed Chilean sea bass or spaghetti Mentaiko.
Taparelle – Mediterranean
MICHELIN Selected
Housed in Manarat Al Saadiyat, Taparelle blends food, art, and community. The airy, art-filled space serves French and Italian-inspired dishes like oxtail ragu and crispy sea bass, paired with craft cocktails. Whether it’s brunch or dinner, it’s an easygoing spot that evolves with the day.
Villa Mamas – Middle Eastern
MICHELIN Selected
Created by Bahraini chef Roaya Saleh, Villa Mamas is a cozy celebration of Khaleeji flavors. The bright, plant-filled space feels like home, and dishes like chicken machbous and hummus topped with lamb cubes bring a comforting taste of the Gulf — elevated with modern techniques and heart.
Final Thoughts
While no new MICHELIN Stars were handed out in Abu Dhabi this year, the 2026 Guide still reflects a vibrant and evolving dining landscape. The addition of new Bib Gourmand and Selected restaurants proves the city’s food scene continues to grow — blending innovation, authenticity, and world-class hospitality.
Whether you’re craving fiery Japanese flavors, soulful Emirati heritage, or beachside Italian comfort, Abu Dhabi’s 2026 MICHELIN Guide lineup has something for every appetite.
WE SAID THIS: Don’t Miss… Going Out For A Bite? Why Not Try One Of Abu Dhabi’s Latest Editions Of The 2024 Michelin Guide
