Ossiano wins the Art of Hospitality award at MENA’s 50 Best Restaurants 2025

Wednesday, January 8, 2025

Ossiano, the renowned fine-dining restaurant located at Atlantis, The Palm in Dubai, UAE, has been honored with the Art of Hospitality Award as part of the Middle East & North Africa’s 50 Best Restaurants 2025.

Announced ahead of the main awards ceremony for the first time, the accolade highlights excellence in service and hospitality, underscoring the region’s dedication to world-class dining.

Sponsored by S.Pellegrino & Acqua Panna, the award recognizes Ossiano’s exceptional ability to create memorable and meaningful guest experiences.

The award will be presented during the fourth edition of the MENA’s 50 Best Restaurants awards, set to take place on 28 January 2025 in Abu Dhabi.

Ossiano’s selection was determined by the MENA Academy, comprising more than 250 independent experts, including chefs, restaurateurs, and food critics, from across the region.

A Unique Underwater Dining Experience

Ossiano stands out as one of Dubai’s most distinctive culinary destinations, offering guests an immersive experience with a stunning underwater backdrop.

Diners are surrounded by a massive aquarium where stingrays, sharks, and other marine life glide gracefully, enhancing the sensory journey beyond the plate. This combination of awe-inspiring visuals and ocean-inspired gastronomy has earned Ossiano a reputation as a pioneer in fine dining.

The restaurant’s commitment to storytelling through its menu is equally remarkable. Each course on its “Culinary Voyage” is meticulously crafted to flow seamlessly into the next, creating an engaging and transformative dining experience.

Signature dishes such as Mojama with beef cecina, piquillo, olives, and tomato, Langoustine (Puerto Rico) with passionfruit and jalapeño, and Kokotxas with cod, black sauce, and Kristal Caviar exemplify Ossiano’s innovative approach to cuisine.

Dedication to Hospitality Excellence

What sets Ossiano apart is its unwavering focus on hospitality. From the moment guests arrive, the team ensures a tailored experience, attending to every detail with precision and care.

This dedication transforms dining into an emotional journey, fostering lasting connections with patrons.

William Drew, Director of Content for MENA’s 50 Best Restaurants, commended Ossiano’s achievement:
“We are delighted to name Ossiano as the winner of the Art of Hospitality Award. This honor reflects the team’s outstanding ability to create extraordinary guest experiences, setting a benchmark for excellence in the region.”

Guillaume Barray, General Manager of Ossiano, expressed pride in receiving the award: “This recognition is a testament to the tireless efforts of our team. Genuine hospitality paired with unforgettable dining is at the heart of what we do, and this award inspires us to continue creating exceptional experiences for our guests.”

Spotlight on MENA’s Culinary Landscape

The MENA’s 50 Best Restaurants awards ceremony in Abu Dhabi will celebrate the region’s culinary diversity and innovation.

The event, hosted in partnership with Abu Dhabi’s Department of Culture and Tourism, includes programs like the 50 Best Signature Sessions and Flavours of 50 Best evening brunch, offering unique opportunities for food enthusiasts to experience world-class collaborations between regional and international chefs.

The final announcement before the ceremony will be the American Express One To Watch Award, to be revealed on 16 January 2025.

Transparent Voting Process

The rankings are determined by the MENA’s 50 Best Restaurants Academy, an esteemed group of culinary experts from 19 countries.

Each Academy member votes for up to 10 restaurants, with a minimum of four outside their home country, ensuring a balanced and representative selection.

The process is independent, with no sponsor influence.

As the awards approach, Ossiano’s recognition underscores its role as a trailblazer in elevating the art of hospitality, firmly placing Dubai on the global culinary map.