The results are in! MENA’s 50 Best Restaurants 2025 have been announced, and once again, Dubai has taken the lead. The city’s culinary scene continues to impress, with homegrown favorite Orfali Bros Bistro securing the number-one spot for the third year in a row.

Founded in 2021 by three brothers, Orfali Bros Bistro has built a strong following by blending creative techniques with their Syrian heritage. Their success extends beyond the region, as they also ranked 64th in The World’s 50 Best Restaurants 2024.

 

The United Arab Emirates continues to dominate the rankings with its dining spots, and several Dubai restaurants made it the top 10:

  • Orfali Bros Bistro (No. 1)
  • Trèsind Studio (No. 2) – a fine-dining Indian experience
  • Kinoya (No. 3) – known for its authentic ramen
  • Ossiano (No. 5) – also won the Art of Hospitality Award
  • Jun’s (No. 7) – Chef Kelvin Cheung’s celebrated spot
  • Moonrise (No. 10) – a modern Omakase experience

Other notable Dubai entries include BOCA (No. 12), 3Fils (No. 14), Bait Maryam (No. 15), Zuma Dubai (No. 19), and La Petite Maison Dubai (No. 23).

In Abu Dhabi, top-ranked restaurants include Marmellata Bakery (No. 29), La Petite Maison Abu Dhabi (No. 38), and NIRI Restaurant & Bar (No. 50).

Saudi Arabia also has a strong presence, with Marble Steakhouse in Riyadh securing No. 16 — the highest-ranked in the country. Other notable entries include Kuruu Jeddah (No. 30), Lunch Room (No. 31), Aseeb (No. 39), and MYAZŪ (No. 49).

Beyond the UAE and Saudi Arabia, several restaurants from across the Middle East & North Africa made the list:

  • Egypt: Khufu’s (No. 4), Zooba (No. 21), Kazoku (No. 24)
  • Bahrain: Fusions by Tala (No. 6), Cut by Wolfgang Puck (No. 43)
  • Jordan: Shams El Balad (No. 8), Fakhreldin (No. 11), Dara Dining (No. 18) – the highest new entry
  • Lebanon: Em Sherif (No. 9)
  • Morocco: La Grande Table Marocaine (No. 22)
  • Tunisia: Le Golfe (No. 44)

For the first time, Kuwait and Qatar did not appear on the list.

The MENA’s 50 Best Restaurants ranking is compiled by a panel of 250 food experts, including chefs, restaurateurs, food critics, and well-traveled gourmets. The 2025 awards ceremony was held at Erth Hotel Abu Dhabi, marking the fourth edition of this prestigious event.

Whether you’re a dedicated foodie or just looking for your next dining destination, keep this article close as it’s a great guide to the best culinary experiences across the region!