The stars descend in the capital
A new season for the Middle East and North Africa’s 50 Best List will soon be upon us, and the capital is gearing up to celebrate it in style with a series of collaboration dinners spotlighting the very best in the culinary world of the Middle East.
For one night only, Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi will host four exclusive collaboration dinners as part of 50 Best’s Signature Sessions dining programme during Middle East & North Africa’s 50 Best Restaurants 2026, set to take place through late January and early February. Think bespoke menus, Abu Dhabi exclusives and access to the culinary greats.
The event has been timed to coincide with the MENA’s 50 Best Restaurants 2026 taking place in Abu Dhabi, and the Signature Sessions will see the hotel’s resident restaurants partner with celebrated kitchens across India, South Africa, Italy and Tunisia. Res assured, each collaboration is a rare one, with limited availability and a golden chance to dine with some of the world’s most respected chefs.
Martabaan by Hemant Oberoi x Trèsind Studio, Dubai
Kicking off the series on 31 January 2026, Martabaan by Hemant Oberoi will host a collaboration between Chef Hermant Oberoi and Chef Himanshu Saini of Trèsind Studio. Beginning at 7pm, the evening unfolds as a surprise multi-course tasting men with an optional beverage pairing.
Drawing from Trèsind Studio’s contemporary take on Indian cuisine, the menu will reinterpret the very best of traditional Indian cooking through a unique lens, taking inspiration from one of the region’s most celebrated dining destinations. Expect refined technique, subtle theatricality and detailed storytelling from the culinary team.
Sand & Koal x Salsify at the Roundhouse, Cape Town
On 2 February 2026, Sand & Koal led by Chef de Cuisine Jack Jarrott, will welcome Chef Ryan Cole and Pastry Chef Nina du Toit of Cape Town’s acclaimed Salsify for a beachside collaboration. Guests are invited to experience a multi-course tasting menu with an optional beverage pairing.
Rooted in seasonality, sustainability and open-fire cooking, the menu highlights locally sourced and foraged ingredients, with signature dishes such as Grapefruit-cured Sashimi and Smoked Springbok. The collaboration reflects Salsify’s philosophy of thoughtful cooking and environmental responsibility, set against the relaxed coastal atmosphere of Sand & Koal.
Talea by Antonio Guida x Uliassi, Senigallia
Taking place on 4 February 2026, Talea by Antonio Guida will host a landmark collaboration with three-MICHELIN-star chef Mauro Uliassi.
Inspired by Italy’s Adriatic Riviera, Uliassi’s cuisine celebrates local fish and seafood alongside traditional Marche meat dishes, reimagined with innovative twists. Known for warm hospitality and a sustainable approach, the collaboration offers a rare opportunity to experience one of Italy’s most revered culinary voices in Abu Dhabi, paired with Talea’s refined setting and Italian sensibility.
Lebanese Terrace x Le Golfe, Tunis
The series concludes on 5 February 2026, with Lebanese Terrace hosting Chefs Fulvio Pischedda and Majdi Rouissi of Le Golfe, Tunis.
Showcasing the best of Mediterranean cuisine, the menu highlights ingredient-led dishes such as Octopus Carpaccio, Grilled Sardines and Cuttlefish with Candied Lemon and Capers. Designed for long, convivial evenings, the experience pairs coastal flavours with Tunisian wines and signature beverages, celebrating shared culinary heritage in the Palace’s open-air terrace setting.
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Deeply passionate about food, culture and community, Manaal loves telling extraordinary stories of ordinary people. Besides sniffing out a tale to tell, her favourite things to do include binging true crime documentaries, chasing cats on the streets and curating a good outfit.
