Ramen's Rise to Glory
Kinoya, a Japanese culinary gem nestled in Dubai's The Greens, has achieved the prestigious title of Best Restaurant in the UAE for 2026, according to
the renowned 50 Best ranking. At the helm of this celebrated establishment is Chef Neha Mishra, a culinary artist with Indian heritage, whose profound expertise in ramen has been the driving force behind its exceptional acclaim. This recognition places Kinoya at the pinnacle of the region's dining scene, highlighting its unique approach in a market often characterized by elaborate tasting menus. The restaurant distinguishes itself as an authentic Japanese izakaya, offering a meticulously curated menu that focuses on delivering a refined yet comforting dining experience. Chef Mishra's journey to leading a top-tier Japanese restaurant is a testament to her unconventional path, marked by a deep, years-long devotion to perfecting the art of ramen.
Unconventional Culinary Path
Chef Neha Mishra's journey into the culinary world, particularly within Japanese cuisine, is quite distinct. Rather than following a traditional path through culinary schools or apprenticeships in haute cuisine, Mishra cultivated her passion for food through dedicated self-study and relentless experimentation. Before immersing herself in the culinary arts, she explored creative avenues outside the hospitality industry. Her fascination with Japanese food, and ramen in particular, bloomed organically, fueled by extensive research, hands-on practice, and an unwavering commitment to mastering its intricacies. This personal quest for perfection allowed her to develop a deep understanding and unique perspective on ramen, which would later become the cornerstone of her successful venture.
From Home Dinners to Acclaim
The genesis of Kinoya can be traced back to the mid-2010s, long before its physical establishment. Chef Neha Mishra initiated a unique concept called 'A Story of Food,' hosting exclusive, reservation-only ramen dinners from her own Dubai residence. These intimate gatherings gradually gained momentum through word-of-mouth, attracting a growing number of patrons over several years. This home-based operation provided an ideal environment for Mishra to refine her ramen recipes and techniques without the high-pressure demands of a commercial kitchen, fostering an atmosphere of relaxed experimentation. When Kinoya finally opened its doors as a brick-and-mortar restaurant in 2021, it preserved this focused ethos, with ramen remaining at the very heart of its identity and culinary reputation.
Kinoya's Izakaya Essence
Kinoya operates as a quintessential Japanese izakaya, characterized by an open kitchen that serves as the focal point, complemented by an inviting chef's counter. The seating arrangements are designed for informality, contributing to a relaxed dining atmosphere that aligns perfectly with the menu's emphasis on comfort and conviviality. The restaurant's culinary philosophy revolves around a carefully selected array of ramen broths and styles, prioritizing depth of flavor, exquisite balance, and unwavering consistency. This deliberate focus ensures that each bowl of ramen delivers an exceptional and memorable experience for every guest. The international profile of Kinoya expanded significantly in 2023 with the launch of a dedicated ramen bar within the prestigious Harrods department store in London, further solidifying its global presence and appeal.
Incremental Growth and Recognition
Since its inception in 2021, Kinoya has steadily garnered significant accolades within the culinary world. The restaurant has been honored with a Bib Gourmand mention in the esteemed Michelin Guide Dubai and has consistently featured on the MENA 50 Best Restaurants list in the years leading up to its 2026 top ranking. This ascent to the top spot wasn't the result of a singular, sudden breakthrough; rather, it was a gradual process of building reputation and reinforcing its standing through consistent quality and presence. Each recognition served to bolster Kinoya's position within the regional and international dining discourse, affirming its status as a leading culinary destination. The 2026 award signifies a broader evolution in the UAE's dining landscape, where restaurants prioritizing technique and focused culinary expertise are increasingly celebrated alongside traditional fine-dining establishments.
