The Best Chef Awards 2025, held this October in Milan, brought together the world’s most visionary culinary minds. The Middle East proudly made its mark. With Dubai emerging as a regional powerhouse and chefs from Lebanon, Jordan, and Egypt earning global recognition, the event underscored how far the region’s gastronomy has come.

Three Knives: The Region’s Finest

Leading the charge was Himanshu Saini of Trèsind Studio in Dubai. He earned the prestigious Three Knives distinctionand secured third place worldwide. His avant-garde approach to modern Indian cuisine continues to redefine fine dining in the UAE and beyond.

Joining him in this elite category, Mohammad Orfali of Orfali Bros also took home Three Knives. His work is a testament to his creative exploration of contemporary Middle Eastern flavors. It is deeply rooted in family heritage and Dubai’s cosmopolitan spirit.

Two Knives: Excellence Across Borders

The Two Knives category saw several regional names recognized for their exceptional contributions. Taka Hisa’s culinary duo Hisao Ueda and Takashi Namekata were honored for their refined Japanese craftsmanship in Dubai.

At Row on 45, Jason Atherton and Daniel Birk impressed with their immersive tasting experience. Their menu blends artistry and emotion in a way that captivates diners.

From Egypt, Mostafa Seif of Khufu’s in Giza represented North Africa. His work bridges ancient Egyptian tradition with modern innovation. Dubai-based chefs Salam Daqqa (Sufret Maryam), Torsten Vildgaard (FZN by Björn Frantzén), and Vladimir Mukhin (Krasota) also earned Two Knives distinctions. Each of them was praised for their creativity and technical brilliance.

One Knife: Rising Voices of the Region

Emerging chefs from across the Middle East also captured global attention in the One Knife category. Dubai once again dominated the list with talents like Abhiraj Khatwani (Manāo), Brando Moros (11Woodfire), Gabriela Chamorro(Girl & The Goose), Solemann Haddad (moonrise), Kelvin Cheung (Jun’s), and Rahul Rana (Avatāra). Each of them is helping to redefine the city’s diverse culinary identity.

In Jordan, Sara Aqel (Dara Dining by Sara Aqel), Hassan Mezal (Sufra), and Rafic Nakhle (Fakhreldin) earned well-deserved recognition. They are bringing Levantine heritage to the international stage. Meanwhile, Tarek Alameddine of Beihouse in Beirut proudly represented Lebanon. His inclusion marked an important moment for Lebanese gastronomy.

A Culinary Renaissance

This year’s awards highlight more than individual achievements. They celebrate a collective momentum across the region. The Middle East is evolving into one of the most exciting dining destinations in the world. From traditional inspirations to modern storytelling on the plate, the 2025 Best Chef Awards confirmed that the region’s culinary voice is stronger than ever.