It was an evening of surprises at the inaugural MICHELIN Guide Doha 2025, and here are all the details, analysis and behind-the-scenes info you need...
"it’s the community moment we needed." As we (Dubai) have countless nights (W50B, Caterer, FACT, G&M, Michelin, Best Chefs, etc.), I guess I take it for granted that the F&B community have times to come together on a regular basis. If anything, I think your comment that chefs might have a renewed sense of purpose is the right call here. Very curious to see what changes in a year!
I’ve been following your stories closely regarding the Michelin guide I know how excited you are about it since it was announced a few months ago that it was coming here, perhaps more than a few months ago.
After seeing the highlights of yesterday’s event, I share with you the same response, which is a muted response. I was expecting more from them. I was expecting to see some surprises and more localized non-franchise restaurants.
Traditional franchises, although they are nice to dine in are safe bets and although they might deserve to be recognize, it’s a boring choice.
I understand that they try to be conservative, but to me, it’s mostly a guide that appeals to the noble Frenchman and not for international gastronomic diners like you and me.
Maybe that’s a bit harsh, but I think they should’ve Done more and added more choices.
Your early comments about the disappointment re the paucity of Michelin stars and more specifically for the people who did not get them rings true with other recent inaugural Michelin Guides. This is their MO. They want to show a growth and maturity in the market. They want to trickle them in over the next 2 to 3 years. It’s also why they choose safe bets on known names that have stars elsewhere. Michelin is conservative. In fairness they are also fighting vitriol in other markets that perhaps they give away stars too easily. I have some sympathy in that they “cannot win”, but I can also see a business strategy.
It will be interesting to see if those awarded restaurants experience a spike in numbers and, if so, how long does that last? It will also be interesting to see if Michelin affects the MENA 50 Best awards in 2026
"it’s the community moment we needed." As we (Dubai) have countless nights (W50B, Caterer, FACT, G&M, Michelin, Best Chefs, etc.), I guess I take it for granted that the F&B community have times to come together on a regular basis. If anything, I think your comment that chefs might have a renewed sense of purpose is the right call here. Very curious to see what changes in a year!
Yes this is absolutely an aspect that has been missing from the scene here - a sense of community. I’m hoping it’s the start of something
I’ve been following your stories closely regarding the Michelin guide I know how excited you are about it since it was announced a few months ago that it was coming here, perhaps more than a few months ago.
After seeing the highlights of yesterday’s event, I share with you the same response, which is a muted response. I was expecting more from them. I was expecting to see some surprises and more localized non-franchise restaurants.
Traditional franchises, although they are nice to dine in are safe bets and although they might deserve to be recognize, it’s a boring choice.
I understand that they try to be conservative, but to me, it’s mostly a guide that appeals to the noble Frenchman and not for international gastronomic diners like you and me.
Maybe that’s a bit harsh, but I think they should’ve Done more and added more choices.
Ps: you looked stunning!
Thank you! I’m betting on this will bring more investment and more interest in the scene here which will result in new, independent venues
Your early comments about the disappointment re the paucity of Michelin stars and more specifically for the people who did not get them rings true with other recent inaugural Michelin Guides. This is their MO. They want to show a growth and maturity in the market. They want to trickle them in over the next 2 to 3 years. It’s also why they choose safe bets on known names that have stars elsewhere. Michelin is conservative. In fairness they are also fighting vitriol in other markets that perhaps they give away stars too easily. I have some sympathy in that they “cannot win”, but I can also see a business strategy.
I was speaking to an industry professional here yesterday snd he echoed similar views as yours.
It will be interesting to see if those awarded restaurants experience a spike in numbers and, if so, how long does that last? It will also be interesting to see if Michelin affects the MENA 50 Best awards in 2026
Also, why Doha and not just Qatar? Is there another city that’s going to license Michelin in Qatar?