Dubai, UAE – Orfali Bros Bistro, the popular dining destination in Dubai, has once again earned the top spot on the Middle East and North Africa's (MENA) 50 Best Restaurants list for the third year in a row. Co-founded by three Syrian-born brothers, Mohammad, Wassim, and Omar Orfali, the bistro is now a leading culinary destination that has garnered global attention. It also made it to the prestigious World’s 50 Best Restaurants list in 2023, ranking 46th. As they continue to expand their culinary empire, the brothers are venturing into new projects, including two more restaurants and an ambitious culinary academy aimed at nurturing young chefs in Syria.
A Journey from Struggling Students to Culinary Icons
The Orfali brothers' journey into the food industry began in an unconventional way. Their story is not one of high academic achievements but rather one of finding their passion after struggling in school. Mohammad, the eldest brother, had low grades in high school, which prevented him from pursuing higher education. In 1995, when a hospitality institute opened in Aleppo, Mohammad decided to enroll. His younger brother, Wassim, followed suit the following year.
Wassim recalled Mohammad’s words: “He said, 'You focus on sweets, and I’ll focus on food. Maybe one day we’ll open a restaurant together.’”
Despite the cultural pressure from their family to pursue more traditional careers, like medicine or engineering, the brothers followed their own path into the culinary world. The youngest brother, Omar, initially aspired to be a florist but soon discovered his true passion for pastry-making. After working at various bakeries and pastry factories in Syria, Lebanon, and Dubai, Omar joined his brothers in 2013, setting the stage for their future success.
From Pastry Shop to Award-Winning Bistro
In 2021, the Orfali brothers opened their restaurant, Orfali Bros Bistro, in Dubai’s Wasl 51 district. What started as a small pastry shop quickly transformed into a renowned bistro. Their innovative dishes, such as OB croquettes, shish barak à la gyoza, and the corn bomb, have helped them stand out in Dubai's competitive culinary scene. Wassim and Omar, both skilled pastry chefs, also create unique desserts that have become an integral part of the bistro’s offerings.
“After COVID-19, we had to adapt and start with takeaway options like salads and sandwiches,” Wassim explained. “Gradually, we expanded to offer pizza and other dishes, which helped us grow into what we are today.”
The brothers’ passion for their work and their ability to adapt have played a significant role in their success. Their latest venture includes a new bistro-style concept called Three Rows, which will feature the brothers' famous pizza and burgers in a more casual setting.
Additionally, the Orfali brothers recently launched Manao, a Thai-inspired restaurant, and they are working on establishing a culinary academy in Syria to support young chefs and promote traditional Syrian cuisine.
Giving Back to Syria and Preserving Heritage
As part of their commitment to their roots, the Orfali brothers plan to open a culinary school in Aleppo, Syria, where they hope to mentor the next generation of chefs. Mohammad emphasized the importance of preserving the authentic flavors of Syrian food while encouraging younger chefs to learn and showcase their heritage. “Fusion is fine, but the traditional flavors should remain intact,” he said.
Their commitment to their country and culture is evident in every aspect of their work. Mohammad added, “Our food is deeply rooted in our culture, and we feel responsible for passing that down to the younger generation.”
A Focus on Long-Term Success
The success of Orfali Bros Bistro is not just about earning awards but about sustaining their legacy. Mohammad, who previously worked as a TV chef, expressed that their goal is to build a restaurant that will stand the test of time, inspiring future generations of chefs in the Middle East. "We’re not just working to be number one. We’re working to create something that will last, something that will inspire the second and third generations," he said.
Today, their team has grown to 60 members, and they continue to work tirelessly to innovate and provide memorable dining experiences for their guests.
Recognition and Awards
Orfali Bros Bistro’s success comes alongside other accolades in the region. Dubai’s Trèsind Studio, led by Chef Himanshu Saini, earned the second spot in MENA’s 50 Best Restaurants for 2025. Meanwhile, Dubai’s Kinoya claimed third place, and Cairo’s Khufu’s was named the best restaurant in Egypt.
Other noteworthy recognitions included Bahraini chef Tala Bashmi, who received the Estrella Damm N.A. Chefs' Choice Award for her contributions to modern Middle Eastern cuisine, and Yasmina Hayek of Em Sherif, who was awarded Best Female Chef.
In conclusion, the Orfali brothers' success story is a testament to their dedication to their craft, their heritage, and their community. With new ventures on the horizon, they remain focused on their mission to support the culinary industry, inspire future chefs, and celebrate their rich cultural heritage.
