Orfali Bros Bistro.

World's Best Restaurants #46, MENA's 50 Best #1 2023, Michelin Bib Gourmand.

Having traveled with Chef Mohamed Orfali recently on a press trip to France, at the end of our week, he was kind enough to invite me to dine at his restaurant, Orfali Bros Bistro. Being the utter geography snob that I am (especially with traffic what it is these days), I tend to avoid Wasl 51, as getting to and parking there is usually a pain (as is getting home). Additionally, my memories from my original visit aren’t particularly opinionated. I recall decent food, but — minus the corn bomb — there was nothing that specifically stood out. Now, more than a year (and numerous prestigious awards) later, it feels like I’m overdue for my return visit.

Once confirmed there were no allergies at our table, my dining partner and I were served several signature small dishes. We begin with some classics, including the (forever order) corn bomb, AED29, OB croquettes, AED19, and the stylish caviar-topped caviar bun, AED99. The umami eclair, AED33, almost does it for me, but I’m not sure the mix of…