Review: Orfali Brothers Bistro Is Dubai’s Bold New Michelin-Starred Mediterranean Hotspot of 2025

Verdict

Orfali Bros Bistro isn't just Dubai's hottest ticket—it's the undisputed king of MENA dining in 2025, clinching the top spot on the 50 Best Restaurants list for the third year running while holding onto its Michelin star with effortless flair. This family-run gem from Syrian brothers Mohammad, Wassim, and Omar Orfali delivers a boundary-breaking menu that's equal parts nostalgic, innovative, and utterly addictive. If you're chasing bold Mediterranean vibes with global twists in a casual, open-kitchen haven, this is your spot. Book now—it's always packed.

The Good

Let's start with the accolades, because they speak volumes. Orfali Bros swept the 2025 MENA's 50 Best as the region's most emblematic restaurant and UAE's finest, all while maintaining its one Michelin star earned in 2024 and reaffirmed in 2025. What sets it apart? The brothers' unpretentious magic: Mohammad helms the savory kitchen, while Wassim and Omar craft French-inspired pastries upstairs, blending Syrian staples with pan-regional flair.

The menu defies labels—think 'Orfali bayildi' with aubergine, makdous muhammara walnut dip, and nasturtium; 'Eat H,' a spicy burghul salad spiked with Aleppo chilli, tomato, puffed burghul, and shiso; or 'Come with me to Aleppo,' a wagyu kebab riff with sour cherry. Michelin inspectors raved about the 'corn bomb' snack for its punchy balance, tuna salsa roja with fermented tomato for layered spice, and plush pide flatbreads from five-day fermented dough. Diners echo this: TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice winners gush over every bite, from melt-in-your-mouth wagyu gyoza with garlic yogurt to stunning desserts like lemon meringue and Ferrero Rocher.

Service? Impeccable and warm—staff like waiter Shadi weave stories behind dishes with humor, making you feel like family. The vibe in Wasl 51's cozy, two-storey open kitchen is relaxed yet electric, with a dessert fridge sparking instant anticipation. Pricing feels fair for Dubai: a 14-course tasting menu runs about 680 AED ($185), delivering fine-dining quality without the stuffiness. No alcohol license, but stellar mocktails and juices fill the gap seamlessly.

The Bad

Perfection has its pitfalls. This place is *always* fully booked—plan weeks ahead or risk disappointment, especially in a nondescript small mall in Jumeirah. No booze means wine lovers might pout, though the non-alcoholic drinks hold their own. Portions skew small-plate style, so paces yourself or opt for the tasting menu to avoid filler hunger later. And while the innovation dazzles, the 'anything goes' menu might overwhelm first-timers—thankfully, trusting the staff's surprises yields hits every time.

Detailed Experience

Stepping into Orfali Bros feels like entering a culinary playground. Tucked in WASL 51 Building D on Al Wasl Road, the space buzzes with casual energy: an open layout where the towering two-storey kitchen looms over diners, savory action below and pastry wizardry above. You're greeted with genuine warmth—humble, friendly staff embodying true hospitality.

We dove into the a la carte (snacks, cold, hot, pide) plus tasting menu teases. The 'corn bomb' explodes with flavor, a juicy wake-up call. Gyoza wagyu dumplings arrive plump, contrasting creamy garlic yogurt and spice—pure bliss. Pide breads, straight from the oven, are moreish pillows of five-day-fermented dough. Standouts like Orfali bayildi mesmerize with beauty and taste, while 'Come with me to Aleppo' reimagines kebabs with wagyu and sour cherry for umami depth. The umami éclair? A genius mashup of porcini emulsion, Marmite, fermented quince, and cacao in a delicate bun—savory meets sweet in heresy heaven.

Desserts steal the show: Wassim and Omar's contrasting pâtissier styles yield éclairs, buns, and gateaux that nod to French classics with Syrian soul. The lemon meringue and Ferrero Rocher knockouts left us swooning. Every element tells a story—of Aleppo roots, Dubai multiculturalism, and rule-bending respect for tradition. It's not pretentious fine dining; it's a bold, fun bistro where bold flavors and nostalgia collide. From solo innovators to families, everyone raves about the inventive oriental twists and impeccable execution. Cost-wise, it's a steal for the quality—expect to savor without breaking the bank.

Final Rating (Stars)

★★★★★ (5/5)

Orfali Bros Bistro isn't a restaurant; it's a movement. Dubai's boldest Mediterranean hotspot cements 2025 as its year, blending Michelin polish with bistro heart. Essential for food lovers—go, get lost in the flavors, and understand why it's MENA's pinnacle.