When a chef whose flagship restaurant was crowned the best in the world decides to bring his magic to a new city, you pay attention . That's exactly what happened when Mauro Colagreco, the culinary genius behind the three-Michelin-starred Mirazur in France, partnered with the luxurious One&Only Royal Mirage resort in Dubai . This wasn't just about opening another restaurant; it was about introducing his unique culinary philosophy to the vibrant Dubai dining scene . He didn't just bring one concept, but two distinct experiences: the refined, nature-inspired Celebrities and the relaxed, Argentinian-flavored Beach Bar & Grill . Ready to explore what makes these Mauro Colagreco Dubai spots so special? Who is Mauro Colagreco? The Chef Behind the Concepts
So, who is this culinary superstar? Mauro Colagreco is an Argentine chef with Italian roots, but his culinary home base is Menton, on the stunning French Riviera . His restaurant, Mirazur, isn't just good; it's legendary, holding three Michelin stars and famously topping The World's 50 Best Restaurants list in 2019 . What sets him apart? His cooking style beautifully ignores borders, focusing intensely on hyper-seasonal ingredients, especially vegetables and herbs often plucked straight from his own gardens . His food tells stories inspired by his heritage and the natural environment surrounding him . Mauro Colagreco at One&Only Royal Mirage: An Overview
The collaboration between Mauro Colagreco and the prestigious One&Only Royal Mirage resort is a significant one for Dubai's food landscape . Within this elegant resort, Colagreco oversees the culinary direction for two distinct restaurants, offering guests a taste of his world-renowned approach in different settings . It's a partnership that brings world-class dining right to the heart of one of Dubai's most iconic hotels . Celebrities by Mauro Colagreco: Garden-to-Table Fine Dining
Celebrities isn't entirely new, but under Colagreco's guidance, it has truly blossomed . After a post-pandemic relaunch in late 2021 that introduced modern French cuisine, the restaurant underwent another exciting evolution in October 2023 . Now, Celebrities champions a "Garden to Table" philosophy, putting seasonality, sustainability, and the sheer artistry of nature front and center . The menu is a celebration of vegetables, changing gracefully with the seasons – think earthy truffles in autumn or hearty cabbage in winter . The ambiance reflects this ethos, with refreshed decor incorporating beautiful natural materials, creating a sophisticated fine-dining environment . Leading the kitchen is Chef Donato Russo, who brings experience from Colagreco's famed Mirazur, ensuring the master chef's exacting standards are met . There's a real commitment to sustainability here too; they even practice a full-circle approach by composting organic waste to nourish gardens . This spot is perfect for discerning diners looking for innovative, ingredient-driven fine dining with a conscience . And the critics agree: Celebrities earned recommendations in the Michelin Guide Dubai for 2022 and 2023, plus a prestigious two-toque rating from Gault&Millau UAE in both 2022 and 2023 – a significant achievement, especially being one of only seven to get two toques in the inaugural 2022 guide . The Beach Bar & Grill by Mauro Colagreco: Argentinian Flavors by the Sea
Fancy something a bit more relaxed but equally delicious? Head to The Beach Bar & Grill by Mauro Colagreco, also nestled within the One&Only Royal Mirage . Here, Colagreco taps into his Argentinian roots, offering a vibrant South American menu perfect for al fresco dining by the sea . The star of the show is the traditional wood-fired 'parilla' grill, where succulent meats, fresh fish, and flavorful vegetables are cooked to perfection . It’s the kind of place designed for leisurely lunches that stretch into the afternoon or delightful dinners under the stars . The menu features plenty of dishes ideal for sharing, like zesty ceviche and delicate crudo, capturing the convivial spirit of South American dining . The setting is effortlessly chic yet casual, with timber decks offering lovely views over the resort's private beach and the glittering Palm Island Bay . It’s the go-to destination for guests who appreciate high-quality, flavor-packed food served in a stunning, laid-back beachside atmosphere . Honestly, what’s not to love about enjoying Mauro Colagreco restaurants' quality with your toes practically in the sand? Colagreco's Vision and Involvement in Dubai
So, how hands-on is Chef Colagreco in Dubai? He provides the essential culinary vision and philosophy that guides both Celebrities and The Beach Bar & Grill . He was personally involved in the significant relaunches and conceptual shifts for both venues, ensuring they reflect his deep commitment to seasonality, top-notch ingredients, and connecting diners with nature and his own heritage . You know what helps maintain his signature style? Key team members, like the head chefs, often come with direct experience from Mirazur, guaranteeing that Colagreco's standards are upheld day in and day out . Colagreco openly acknowledges that sourcing the perfect produce in Dubai presents different challenges compared to his garden-rich base in Menton . Here's the thing: he emphasizes building strong relationships with local suppliers and cleverly adapting his core philosophy to thrive within the local context . Ultimately, his goal remains consistent: to create dining experiences that celebrate nature, seasonality, quality ingredients, and the rich tapestry of his culinary background . The Impact: Why Colagreco's Presence Matters
Having a chef of Mauro Colagreco's stature operate restaurants in Dubai significantly elevates the city's global culinary profile . His world-class reputation acts like a magnet, drawing discerning food lovers from across the globe and locally . Furthermore, his focus on sustainability and ingredient-led cuisine perfectly aligns with the direction modern gastronomy is heading worldwide, adding depth to Dubai's dining scene . The high-profile awards scooped up by Celebrities, including nods from the Michelin Guide and top ratings from Gault&Millau UAE, serve as powerful validation of the quality and impact Colagreco brings . It underscores Dubai's ability not just to attract, but also to successfully support, the very best culinary talent – chefs who are committed to both extraordinary food and responsible practices . His presence reinforces the message that Dubai is a serious destination for top-tier, thoughtful dining experiences . You get two wonderfully different ways to experience the culinary brilliance of one of the world's most acclaimed chefs, all within the beautiful setting of One&Only Royal Mirage . Whether you opt for the sophisticated, nature-driven journey at Celebrities or the relaxed, fire-kissed Argentinian flavors at The Beach Bar & Grill, you're tasting the vision of Mauro Colagreco brought to life in Dubai .