Al Muntaha, perched on the 27th floor of Dubai’s iconic Jumeirah Burj Al Arab, offers an exquisite dining experience under the leadership of acclaimed chef Saverio Sbaragli.
Scooping three awards earlier this year, Sbaragli was named Gault&Millau UAE’s Chef of the Year alongside Beverage Director for Jumeirah, Sam Lacroix, who was named Sommelier of the Year and Al Muntaha being awarded UAE Restaurant of the Year 2024.
Sbaragli specialises in French cuisine with Italian influences, emphasising freshly made pasta as a cornerstone of his culinary creations. His dedication to authentic flavours and meticulous preparation has earned Al Muntaha a host of prestigious accolades, including a Michelin star in 2022, on top of the trio of Gault&Millau honours.
Seeking to weave together a narrative of international influences alongside the best produce and ingredients available in the UAE, Sbaragli’s innovative menus shift with the seasons. He is recognised for his commitment to local farms and producers, forging the necessary relationships with farmers, fishermen, and agriculturalists across the UAE.
Therefore, diners are treated to dishes rooted in tradition while implementing many regional ingredients, an example of the progressive steps achieved in local farming.
The Florentine chef grew up in Tuscany’s countryside and defines his cooking as “explosions of flavours.” Since he relocated to Dubai in 2010, Sbaragli has made a conscious effort to explore community farms, allowing local flavours and influences to feed into his creations.
“I love the whole journey of creating a new dish,” says Sbaragli. “I’ll have an idea and an image in my head and then seek the best ingredients to achieve it, preferably leaning on local where possible. It’s like being a child in a playground.”
He continues, “It’s in these early stages when our team really comes together, and the bond is felt. Sam and I will talk about my ideas and the produce coming into the kitchen, and his mind immediately goes to what that will pair with. It’s a wonderful thing, making our pairings one of Al Muntaha’s standout achievements.”
Alongside the chef’s contemporary dishes, guests are afforded breathtaking views of the Arabian Gulf and Dubai skyline from the comfort of Al Muntaha. These views complement the sophisticated ambience and exceptional service — including a dedicated cheese sommelier and the UAE’s Sommelier of the Year 2024.
As this publication stated in its 2024 review of Al Muntaha, “The restaurant offers unrivalled service, impeccable food, and ambition in abundance.”
Al Muntaha, 27th floor, Burj Al Arab Jumeirah, Dubai; +971 800 323232
www.jumeirah.com/en/stay/dubai/burj-al-arab-jumeirah/dining/burj-al-arab-muntaha