Introducing The Luminary Set – Discover 40 World Class Restaurants with 18 Michelin Stars

Increasingly, seasoned food connoisseurs are on the lookout for dining experiences that go beyond the usual, seeking something extraordinary. The excitement is palpable with the latest editions of the MICHELIN Guide making their debut across the Middle East, including Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Qatar. Following the recent 3rd edition of the MICHELIN Guide Dubai on July 4th, there has never been a better time to delve into the dynamic culinary landscapes of the region.

Discerning diners across the region seeking to savour extraordinary gastronomic experiences can look no further as The Luminary Set, a handpicked collection of vanguard culinary excellence including 40 restaurants, collectively with 18 Michelin Stars in 10 countries across Europe and the Middle East, recently announced its launch. A vibrant collection of critically acclaimed tastemakers and innovators including a host of recent Michelin selections such as Rhodes W1, Akira Back, and City Social along with the likes of Indya by Vineet which remained on the latest Bib Gourmand list, The Luminary Set invites epicurean adventurers to indulge in curated dining experiences that transcend the ordinary and delight the senses.

Nicolas Marzioni, Vice President of Food and Beverage, Marriott International, said, “We have seen a growing trend for our guests travelling extensively for sought-after culinary experiences. The Luminary Set showcases the exceptional level of creativity, talent, and extraordinary dining options available and celebrates the achievements of our most outstanding restaurants across the region.”

The handpicked collection comprises restaurants of distinction that have been awarded a Michelin star, have a worldwide celebrity chef affiliation or have been recognised by leading restaurant guides and awards including Gault & Millau, Gambero Rosso Guide, or World’s 50 Best Restaurant Awards.

The newly launched brand shines a spotlight on the creatives and trailblazers behind these unforgettable establishments – the chefs, sommeliers, and mixologists whose ingenuity put their restaurants on the map and made this collection possible. The Luminary Set celebrates the diversity of the industry, the people in it, and the wealth of unique encounters available across the region. Evolving the restaurant experience beyond merely a ‘destination’, it helps to fuel guests’ desires to live unique and memorable experiences around the table.

The UAE collection consists of sixteen exquisite restaurants, fourteen in Dubai and two in Abu Dhabi, all offering their own unique dining experience. With a total of twenty-two hand-picked venues across the Middle East including the UAE, Türkiye, and Qatar, diners can embark on an enticing journey throughout the region at these landmark restaurants.

Led by the innovative Michelin-starred Chef Jason Atherton, Row On 45 is the newest dining destination to have been awarded two Michelin Stars at the recent MICHELIN Guide Dubai on July 4th, becoming the acclaimed chef’s first two-star venue in the world. Also included in the World’s 50 Best MENA Edition this February, the restaurant showcases the epitome of culinary excellence in every exquisite dish and reflects the essence of ‘Refinement of Work’. Towering high above the Dubai Marina within the luxurious Grosvenor House, Row On 45 offers an immersive experience that transcends traditional dining, combining breathtaking views with an inviting ambience, and creating an unforgettable culinary journey for every guest.

Nestled in The Palm West Crescent and recently retaining its Michelin Star at the latest MICHELIN Guide ceremony, this restaurant by Chef Massimo Bottura invites guests to embark on a journey back to the 1960s Italian Riviera in his first Michelin Star-awarded restaurant outside of Italy. Soak up the chic yet casual ambience and choose to dine al fresco or with your toes in the sand while savouring unmatched views of the Arabian Gulf.

by Chef Jason Atherton

Awarded 14 points by Gault & Millau

2024 MICHELIN Guide Dubai

Indulge in the charming flavours of European cuisine with a Japanese twist and enjoy a specially curated menu by celebrated chef Jason Atherton. Located on the 43rd floor of the iconic Grosvenor House, a Luxury Collection Hotel, this unique dining destination boasts dynamic flavours, an extensive beverage list, and a vibrant atmosphere against the backdrop of the iconic Dubai skyline.

Awarded 12.5 points by Gault & Millau

Perched on the 68th floor, Prime68 redefines the steakhouse experience with an exquisite blend of quality ingredients and contemporary elegance. Prime68 prides itself on sourcing premium ingredients from carefully selected suppliers known for their artisanal produce, showcasing the finest heritage beef from esteemed farms worldwide.

Awarded 13 points by Gault & Millau

Immerse yourself in the refined ambience of an oak-panelled dining room, where modern sophistication meets timeless elegance. Indulge in premium meat cuts expertly prepared by Chef de Cuisine Fernando Tapia, while the echoes of classic British rock ‘n’ roll create a lively yet tasteful backdrop. Elevate your experience with an exquisite selection of regional grape varieties, curated by award-winning resident grape sommelier, Mile Spasov.

by Chef Richard Sandoval

Celebrate the vibrant flavours of Pan-Latin cuisine crafted by the esteemed Chef Richard Sandoval. With authentic recipes from Peru to Brazil, Toro Toro offers an immersive dining experience amidst chic interiors, lush foliage, and tribal Latin motifs. Designed to be shared, the Toro Toro experience encourages conversation while delighting over an array of enticing South American favourites.

UAE food connoisseurs can also enjoy Asian- inspired cuisine at Akira Back located in W Dubai – The Palm and Attiko, located in W Dubai – Mina Seyahi. Additionally at Grosvenor House, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Dubai, guests can enjoy an array of diverse dining experiences including Bushra by Buddha Bar, Indego by Vineet, Row on 45, and Rhodes W1. Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort & Spa offers three dynamic options with Rhodes Twenty10, Indya by Vineet, which holds a place on the 2024 Bib Gourmand list, and Maya by Chef Richard Sandoval. The St. Regis Dubai, The Palm is home to Rüya, while The St. Regis Abu Dhabi features Catch at St. Regis.

About the author