We’ve curated the ultimate guide to women-led restaurants paying homage to the international cuisines that shape and inspire the city’s vibrant gastronomic landscape. Each establishment has been recognised by MICHELIN, whether for its exceptional cuisine or the visionary leadership of a woman.
EUROPE
Boca
MICHELIN Green Star, MICHELIN Guide Dubai 2023
Based in DIFC, Boca not only stands out for its innovative Mediterranean-inspired cuisine but also for its commitment to female leadership. Under the guidance of its visionary chef, Patricia Roig, and the philosophy “take whatever’s good and fresh and delicious, do as little to it as possible, and share it with people who think like us,” Boca has earned a MICHELIN Green Star for its dedication to sustainable practices in the kitchen. Be sure to try the green herb gazpacho!
Pierchic
MICHELIN-selected, MICHELIN Guide Dubai 2023
Led by chef Beatrice Segoni, who is highly recognised in Dubai’s culinary scene, Pierchic is the perfect spot to enjoy lunch with the leading ladies in your life. Savour remarkable views overlooking the Arabian Gulf, fresh seafood, and traditional Italian dishes with a contemporary twist in a restaurant sitting at the end of pier.
Josette
MICHELIN-selected, MICHELIN Guide Dubai 2023
It’s glamour galore at Josette – a grand French restaurant inspired by 1920s Paris and is designed as a representation of a female figure who is described as “mysterious, elegant, and sexy,” with an appetite for life. “When you enter the restaurant, you just know it’s been touched by a woman, and you feel a certain kind of glamour,” says Head Chef, Burcu Cracknell. “A great deal of attention went into the beautiful interior, and we took a lot of time to curate the menu,” she adds. The menu is a re-imagination of all the French brasserie classics, from escargots to tournedos Rossini. Come with friends for dinner to experience it at its best, with its live music and DJ.
Fi’lia
Bib Gourmand, MICHELIN Guide Dubai 2023
Its name means ‘daughter,’ highlighting the ladies leading the way in the kitchen, as well as the culinary knowledge passed down through generations of women. Set on the 70th floor of Dubai’s SLS hotel in Business Bay, Fi'lia offers impressive views and a menu helmed by chef Célia Stoeklin; come here to dive into everything from artisan pizza and pasta, to contemporary twists on traditional dishes.
Avli by Tashas
MICHELIN-selected, MICHELIN Guide Dubai 2023Owned by South African Tasha Sideris, who is well-loved in the Dubai dining scene, Avli by Tashas pays homage to her Greek heritage. Carefully prepared dishes made from quality ingredients such as mezze, salads and seafood alongside classics such as feta saganaki and lamb youvetsi will keep you wanting more at this DIFC hotspot. If you fancy sticking around after hours, Galaxy Bar is well worth a visit, too.
21 Grams
Bib Gourmand, MICHELIN Guide Dubai 2023
This cosy urban Balkan bistro, situated in Meyan Mall, Umm Suqeim, is owned by Stasha Toncev who has a firm belief that the potential of Balkan cuisine and hospitality is still untapped. Since 21 Grams' opening in 2018, Stasha has made it her mission to serve the best homecooked food from the Balkans in Dubai by offering a dining experience that celebrates the rich flavours, inspired by Eastern Europe, Greece and Turkey, such as the signature phyllo pie.
MIDDLE EAST
Ariana’s Persian Kitchen
MICHELIN-selected, MICHELIN Guide Dubai 2023
Award-winning TV chef and cookbook author, Ariana Bundy, brings the taste of her family’s Persian recipes to Dubai. Blending time-honoured classics with a modern twist, the menu at Ariana's Persian Kitchen features vibrant salads, charred meats, and kebabs designed for sharing, all served with charming hospitality. Experience aromas of fruits, nuts, and floral fragrances merged with meats and vegetables, providing the essence of a traditional Persian home. Chef Ariana is passionate about sharing her country’s culture, cuisine, and traditions in hospitality.
Bait Maryam
Bib Gourmand, MICHELIN Guide Dubai 2023
Located in the heart of Dubai, Bait Maryam is a ‘home away from home’ acclaimed by the Palestinian-Jordanian chef and owner, Salam Dakkak. The restaurant, named after Salam’s mother, provides a memorable experience in the JLT neighbourhood, with each dish celebrating wholesome and flavourful Levantine heritage.
Siraj
MICHELIN-selected, MICHELIN Guide Dubai 2023
Siraj takes diners on a sensory journey through the diverse landscapes of Emirati and Levantine cuisine. It offers a modern interpretation of traditional dishes while staying true to authentic flavours and ingredients. Established by Heba Rumhein, Siraj is not just a restaurant but a cultural ambassador, showcasing the heritage and culinary traditions of the UAE to the world. With every dish crafted with passion and precision, Siraj invites guests to experience the essence of Arabic hospitality and culinary excellence. Its chic, modern decor is enhanced with subtle nods to Arabic culture, while its outdoor terrace boasts prime views of the Burj Khalifa fountain show.
ASIA
Kinoya
Bib Gourmand, MICHELIN Guide Dubai 2023Set in The Onyx Tower 2 in The Greens, there’s a buzzing atmosphere at this authentic izakaya and brainchild of chef-owner, Neha Mishra. Kinoya's menu features small plates, sushi, and robata-grilled specialties plus five ramen dishes. The ingredients are good quality, the cooking is precise, prices are low, and flavours are full. From the moment you step inside, you get a sense of Japan. Its success is a testament to the skill, creativity, and dedication of its leading lady, who continues to push the boundaries of Japanese cuisine in Dubai.
