Abu Dhabi’s culinary scene is set to experience an unprecedented showcase of fine dining excellence with the arrival of The MICHELIN Guide Food Festival from November 22nd to 24th. Hosted at the opulent Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, this three-day culinary celebration brings together renowned chefs from 20 MICHELIN Guide-recommended restaurants, giving food enthusiasts a rare opportunity to indulge in exceptional flavors and masterful techniques. Here’s what visitors can expect from this extraordinary festival that merges local tradition with global innovation.
A Feast of Flavors from Around the World
This second edition of The MICHELIN Guide Food Festival promises to take attendees on a journey through Abu Dhabi’s evolving food culture, spotlighting a fusion of Emirati heritage and contemporary culinary artistry. Throughout the event, guests will be treated to exclusive dishes crafted by a stellar lineup of chefs who bring the essence of their native cuisines, enhanced with a modern twist. From intricate Thai flavors to sustainable Japanese dishes and innovative French fare, the festival exemplifies the diversity and dynamism of today’s fine dining world.
Visitors will have the unique chance to taste signature creations, join in masterclasses led by elite chefs, and explore a curated marketplace featuring fresh, locally-sourced produce. The pinnacle of the event, however, may be the exclusive six-hands collaboration that unites three culinary maestros to present an unforgettable menu.
Meet the Culinary Stars of the Festival
Each chef participating in the festival brings unique techniques, styles, and philosophies that contribute to an unparalleled dining experience. Here are some of the culinary masters that visitors can expect to encounter:
Chef Prin Polsuk: A Guardian of Thai Culinary Heritage
Prin Polsuk, co-founder of Samrub Samrub Thai, has dedicated his career to preserving ancient Thai recipes and reinterpreting them for today’s discerning diners. With an emphasis on hyper-local ingredients and inspiration drawn from rare Thai cookbooks, his approach celebrates regional flavors while pushing boundaries. At the festival, Polsuk’s dishes promise to deliver the authentic, rich taste of Thailand’s diverse culinary landscape.
Allen Hyunmin Suh: Korean Innovation Meets Michelin-Quality Standards
Allen Hyunmin Suh, Chef and Owner of Restaurant Allen, has honed his craft in acclaimed Michelin-starred kitchens across Las Vegas, San Francisco, and New York. Known for his creative interpretations of Korean cuisine, Allen’s journey from an ambitious chef in Seoul to a two-star Michelin honoree is a testament to his skill and dedication. His dishes at the festival will showcase his bold vision, melding Korean flavors with innovative techniques honed over years of international experience.
Michihiro Haruta: Champion of Eco-Conscious Cuisine
Chef Michihiro Haruta of Crony is known for his commitment to sustainable gastronomy. He carefully selects seasonal ingredients directly from local producers, creating dishes that honor the environment as much as they satisfy the palate. His presence at The MICHELIN Guide Food Festival will bring a new dimension to sustainable fine dining, inviting guests to savor flavors crafted with a deep respect for nature.
Hans Neuner: Portuguese Cuisine Reimagined
Originally from Austria, Hans Neuner has become a celebrated figure in Portuguese gastronomy. The culinary journey that took him to Portugal’s Algarve region allowed him to explore the rich flavors and diverse influences that define the country’s cuisine. Under his leadership, Ocean restaurant earned its first Michelin star in 2009, followed by a second in 2011. Neuner’s dishes, inspired by Portugal’s rich cultural heritage, are bound to be a highlight of the festival.
Ozan Kumbasar: Advocating for Seasonal, Local Ingredients
Chef Ozan Kumbasar of Urla Vino Locale emphasizes sustainability and a deep-rooted connection to local producers. Driven by an endless curiosity, he creates monthly menus featuring products from Urla and the surrounding region. His philosophy of supporting local agriculture aligns perfectly with the ethos of the MICHELIN Guide, making his contributions to the festival a thoughtful addition for those interested in regional, sustainable cuisine.
Debi Prasad Rath: A Tribute to Emirati Flavors
At the helm of Erth Abu Dhabi, Chef Debi Prasad Rath marries modern culinary techniques with the rich, storied traditions of Emirati cuisine. With over a decade of experience, his work is a tribute to the flavors of the UAE, merging authentic regional elements with sophisticated presentations. Festival-goers can expect a true taste of Abu Dhabi’s unique heritage as interpreted by one of its most passionate culinary advocates.
Lee Kok Hua: Cantonese Elegance at Hakkasan
As Executive Chef at Hakkasan Abu Dhabi, Lee Kok Hua upholds the Cantonese culinary tradition with refined sophistication. His belief in cooking as a “silent bridge” between chef and diner is evident in his meticulously crafted dishes that balance elegance with robust flavors. Visitors can look forward to the quintessential flavors of Hakkasan, where Cantonese recipes meet contemporary flair.
Thinus van der Westhuizen: Japanese Precision and Innovation
Thinus van der Westhuizen, Cluster Executive Chef at 99 Sushi Bar in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, has distinguished himself with his ability to blend tradition with innovation. Known for his expertise in haute Japanese cuisine, Thinus’ creations bring Japanese flavors to life with a contemporary touch, promising festival attendees an experience that is both immersive and sophisticated.
Beyond the Plate: Experiences and Activities for Food Lovers
In addition to an impressive chef lineup, the festival will offer a range of immersive experiences. Visitors can attend culinary demonstrations, masterclasses, and explore a marketplace where they can buy local produce, artisanal products, and rare ingredients to recreate MICHELIN-level dishes at home. This festival is not just about tasting; it’s an opportunity to engage with the culinary process, learn from experts, and take home newfound skills.
Exclusive Ticket Information and Early Bird Offer
Tickets for The MICHELIN Guide Food Festival are available now, with an early bird price of AED 85 for adults until October 31st. Standard tickets will be priced at AED 100, and children under 12 can attend free of charge. Entry tickets cover access to the festival and activities, though food and beverages will be available for purchase separately.
When: November 22nd – 24th
Where: Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi
Entry: AED 85 (early bird) and AED 100 (standard)
This festival is a must for anyone passionate about the artistry of fine dining and eager to explore the latest trends in global gastronomy. Tickets can be purchased online at Platinumlist.net.
Why The MICHELIN Guide Food Festival is Unmissable
Abu Dhabi’s dining scene is evolving rapidly, and The MICHELIN Guide Food Festival serves as a powerful testament to the region’s growing reputation as a global gastronomic hub. From the carefully selected lineup of chefs to the rich variety of activities, this festival is more than an event; it’s a celebration of cultural diversity, sustainability, and culinary mastery.
For both the seasoned gastronome and the casual food lover, The MICHELIN Guide Food Festival offers an unforgettable experience where heritage meets modern culinary artistry, and every bite is a story of tradition, innovation, and excellence.
