Culinary Ascent and Ramen Mastery
In a significant achievement for the UAE's vibrant culinary scene, Kinoya, a Japanese restaurant located in Dubai, has earned the prestigious title of
Best Restaurant in the UAE for 2026, according to the esteemed 50 Best ranking. At the helm of this celebrated establishment is Chef Neha Mishra, an Indian chef whose profound dedication to the art of ramen has been the driving force behind its success. Kinoya stands out not only for its accolades but also for its focused approach, operating as a Japanese izakaya with a curated menu that emphasizes depth and consistency. This recognition marks a shift in the dining landscape, highlighting technique-driven, intimate establishments alongside grander fine-dining venues. Chef Mishra's journey to leading a top-tier Japanese restaurant is rather unconventional, eschewing traditional culinary school routes and apprenticeships in favor of a self-driven exploration of Japanese cuisine, with ramen as her primary passion. Her commitment is evident in the restaurant's unwavering focus on quality and execution, a philosophy that has guided Kinoya from its inception.
From Home Kitchen to Acclaim
Chef Neha Mishra's culinary path to international recognition began with humble origins, diverging significantly from the typical fine-dining trajectory. Rather than formal training, her expertise was honed through years of dedicated personal research, hands-on experimentation, and a deep-seated passion for Japanese cooking, particularly ramen. The genesis of Kinoya can be traced back to the mid-2010s when Mishra initiated 'A Story of Food,' a series of reservation-only ramen dinners hosted from her Dubai residence. These intimate gatherings gradually gained popularity through word-of-mouth, eventually serving thousands of patrons over several years. The home setting provided a low-pressure environment for refinement, allowing Chef Mishra to meticulously develop her craft. Upon transitioning to a physical restaurant in 2021, Kinoya maintained this core identity, with ramen continuing to be its centerpiece. The establishment’s deliberate choice to limit its menu to specific broths and styles underscores a commitment to achieving unparalleled depth, balance, and unwavering consistency in every dish served, ensuring a unique and memorable dining experience.
Izakaya Charm and Global Reach
Kinoya, operating as a Japanese izakaya, embraces an informal yet sophisticated dining atmosphere. The restaurant's heart lies in its open kitchen and chef's counter, fostering a connection between diners and the culinary process. The seating arrangements are designed for comfort, complementing a menu that encourages communal enjoyment and relaxed dining. This intimate setting, combined with Chef Neha Mishra's meticulous attention to detail, has cultivated a loyal following. The restaurant's influence extended beyond Dubai's borders in 2023 with the opening of a dedicated ramen bar within the iconic Harrods department store in London. This international expansion has significantly amplified Kinoya's global presence and solidified its reputation. Since its opening in 2021, Kinoya has consistently garnered accolades, including a Bib Gourmand from the Michelin Guide Dubai and regular appearances on the MENA 50 Best Restaurants list, reinforcing its status as a culinary benchmark.
