Great List Is Here — And It's Changing the Way You Dine
Whether you're searching for the latest fine dining hotspots or local hidden treasures, the expert- reviewed guide provides a curated selection of Dubai's best restaurants
Dubai's dining scene is ever evolving, and Great List is here to help food lovers navigate it. Unlike traditional guides, Great List features a handpicked selection of top restaurants, reviewed anonymously and categorised for every occasion. WKND sat down with Alexander Sysoev, founder of Great List, to uncover why it's set to become Dubai's go-to dining guide.
Great List has already gained recognition as a go-to dining guide in other markets, and now it has finally arrived in Dubai. Can you tell us more about the concept?
We have created a guide for true foodies who travel frequently. We realised that it is difficult to compare completely different places, whether it's a chef's table or a street food café. That's why we adopted a more meticulous selection process, putting candidates through an extensive review before making the cut. Our selection process is handled by a team of 57 people who visit restaurants anonymously and conduct at least two to three visits before making a decision.
To make things easier for guests, we have categorised restaurants for different occasions, from fine dining to coffee spots. In addition to this, we offer several key features: we track the best new openings, produce a wealth of video content where chefs personally recommend dishes (check our Instagram account @greatlistguide), and even publish restaurant playlists on Spotify.
With this approach, we have created the perfect selection for those who love dining out, frequently visit F&B places, and appreciate the highest level of quality in every aspect - from food to atmosphere.
Can you tell us more about the chef tours?
Of course! I want to start with tours featuring Dubai's top chefs—their level of expertise is exceptionally high, and I am eager to showcase this in other countries. The goal is twofold: to introduce HNWI clients to the best dishes and personalities from Dubai and to provide another compelling reason to visit the city.
It's my dream to introduce Dubai's top chefs to international audiences. In mid-March, we will begin negotiations with Orfali Brothers, Moonrise, Bait Maryam, Kinoya, Mimi Kakushi, Alaya, Brix, Arabian Tea House, Fish Market, Teible, and other leading homegrown concepts.
What are some of the key features that make Great List stand out from other dining guides?
At https://greatlist.com, we answer many of the key questions that guests often ask. For example, when visiting a new restaurant, diners may not always know what to order. To help with this, each restaurant profile includes recommendations of four to five signature dishes personally suggested by the chef. We also provide guidance on dress codes and even suggest the best tables to book.
Moreover, we value the people behind each restaurant. That is why every listing includes profiles of chefs and restaurateurs, along with their connections to other projects. This allows users to discover, for example, that the incredible chef Salam Dakkak not only runs Bait Maryam but also Sufret Maryam - both featured in our guide.
Great List is known for its selective approach. How do you determine which restaurants make the cut?
We evaluate a wide range of factors: first and foremost, the food, but also service, atmosphere, design, and the overall customer journey. We believe that dining should always be an exceptional experience, so every restaurant on our list is a standout, stylish destination with an outstanding ambiance.
Our team also conducts repeat visits and closely monitors staff changes. For instance, if a restaurant's head chef leaves, we immediately remove the venue from the list until we reassess it.
One of our most important sections is NEW, where we feature candidates for the guide. These are brand-new openings that have demonstrated phenomenal performance within their first month. After six months, our team re-evaluates whether the restaurant has maintained its quality and decides whether to officially include it in the guide. This way, even frequent visitors to Dubai can always stay updated on the best new dining spots.
Does Great List cater to all types of diners, from fine-dining enthusiasts to those seeking hidden gems?
We appreciate all types of dining establishments, as they collectively shape the city's gastronomic scene. Street food and casual cafés are just as important as grand fine dining venues. Of course, hidden gems are a special discovery for foodies as well.
That is why we seek out cosy cafés inside boutiques (like Villa Margot or IYKYK), recognise the iconic sandwiches at Rascals, and stand in line for a table at ZaZa or Bkry. Each of these places fully meets our criteria within its segment, ensuring a high-quality experience no matter the price point.
For someone new to Great List, what's the best way to use the platform to discover and enjoy the best dining experiences in Dubai?
Users generally follow three main approaches when navigating the platform:
Browsing by category – For instance, those searching for a date night spot often explore sections like Smart Casual or Fine Dining.
Exploring by chef or restaurateur – Many users start by looking up their favourite restaurants and then explore other venues by the same chef or hospitality group. If someone loves Mimi Kakushi, for example, they are likely to be interested in other Rikas Hospitality Group establishments.
Using the map feature – Another convenient way to find great spots is by opening the map and seeing what's nearby.
What has the response been like from Dubai's restaurant community since Great List launched in the city?
I am truly grateful for the warm reception we have received from the industry. Many restaurants have already displayed our metal award plaques at their entrances, and posts about Great List are frequently reshared by both industry professionals and users.
Beyond that, we have seen a surge in user-generated content (UGC) from guests who discovered restaurants through the guide, which is incredibly rewarding!
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Gulf Today
15 hours ago
- Gulf Today
Beyonce, Miley Cyrus perform together
Two powerhouse performers Beyonce and Miley Cyrus came together during the France leg of Beyonce's 'Cowboy Carter' tour. The audience was left pleasantly surprised as Miley joined Beyonce onstage to perform their song "II Most Wanted". Introducing Miley, Beyonce said, "I'm so excited because I wanted to do something very special for you guys." The 'Single Ladies' singer praised Miley saying, "I could not do it without this young lady's help, so I want you to scream as loud as you can. I want y'all for this icon. I'm your biggest fan. I'm so grateful to watch you, to sing with you, Miss Miley Cyrus.' Now, Miley took to her Instagram handle and penned a heartfelt note showing her love and admiration for Beyonce. Posting a couple of sneak peeks from the duet performance, Miley wrote,"beyonce to be beside such a humble, gracious, legendary DIVA was a dream come true. Miley Cyrus arrives at the 61st Grammy Awards at Staples Center in Los Angeles. File photo Thank you for the opportunity to perform in Paris together & sing our song about friendship. To have learned from you & loved you my whole life, & then be standing together in matching gold looks is more than I could've imagined." "As the finale to this trip supporting Something Beautiful, to close on something as beautiful as a stadium full of people singing "2 Most Wanted' with us was the ultimate firework. Thank you B. I'll be your shotgun rider for life. Big gratitude to the Cowboy Carter tour crew, you all were incredible for making this happen. Forever and always," she added. Both the ladies twinned in golden sequin dresses during the performance. While Beyonce opted for a golden bodysuit with a bauble-studded scoop neck and embellished buckle belt, Miley chose a crystal and rhinestone-studded catsuit. In the meantime, Miley recently treated music lovers with her latest album, "Something Beautiful". Indo-Asian News Service
Gulf Today
15 hours ago
- Gulf Today
Shanaya Kapoor calls debut film 'Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan' a dream come true
Shanaya Kapoor took to social media to share a heartwarming behind-the-scenes glimpse from the first outdoor shoot of her upcoming film 'Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan.' In the clip, she's seen smiling as co-star Vikrant Massey gently holds her hand, capturing a candid moment of their on-screen chemistry taking shape. In the BTS moment, Shanaya could be seen smiling warmly as she held hands with Vikrant, offering a glimpse of their effortless chemistry and the lighthearted camaraderie shared on set. Posting the video on her Instagram, Shanaya wrote, "First outdoor schedule Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan #bts @vikrantmassey." She also added the title track teaser of 'Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan' as the background score, further enhancing the emotional vibe of the behind-the-scenes glimpse. Meanwhile, Vikrant Massey found himself in a playful spot as he shared a fun behind-the-scenes moment with Shanaya Kapoor. The '12th Fail' actor posted a photo of himself and Shanaya cycling together during a shoot for their upcoming film Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan. Alongside the picture, Massey had written, "Here you go @shanayakapoor02 Pedalled straight into trouble and maybe a little bit of love too." In the photo, Vikrant was seen grinning with joy as Shanaya Kapoor sat at the front, riding the bicycle with a cloth tied over her eyes. The project marked their first on-screen pairing. Meanwhile, on the occasion of Father's Day, Vikrant has wished all the men who try, fail, and try again, while also crediting his wife for giving him the honour of becoming a father. Vikrant took to Instagram, where he shared a picture with his son Vardaan posing in front of the iconic Colosseum in Rome, Italy. The actor and his son are posing together on the cobblestone street with the iconic landmark in the background. Recently, the makers released the teaser of 'Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan' on social media, offering a peek into what promises to be a tender and emotionally rich love story. The teaser introduced Massey as a visually impaired musician and Kapoor as a passionate theatre artist. Their fleeting encounter gradually unfolded into a deep emotional bond, conveyed through unspoken moments, shared music, and meaningful glances. The teaser ended on a poignant note, with Massey's character stating, 'Love is blind.' Helmed by Santosh Singh, the romantic drama takes inspiration from Ruskin Bond's acclaimed short story 'The Eyes Have It.' The film is produced by Mansi Bagla and Varun Bagla under the banners of Zee Studios and Mini Films. It is slated for a theatrical release on July 11. Shanaya Kapoor said she's 'dreaming' with her 'eyes open.' Debutante Shanaya has expressed her happiness and fulfillment as her dream of acting in films is finally coming true with her maiden film 'Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan.' Shanaya took to Instagram, where she shared a picture from the behind-the-scenes of the shoot. In the image, the actress is seen standing behind the camera and looking at the shot she gave for the film. On June 15, Shanaya shared a glimpse from the first day of workshop for 'Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan." Indo-Asian News Service
Emirates Woman
a day ago
- Emirates Woman
8 celebrity dads who prove fatherhood is their favorite role
Life by Team Emirates Woman June 20, 2025 With Father's Day takes place on June 21, we thought it was only fitting to take a look at some of the most doting dads out there. Sheikh Hamdan View this post on Instagram His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Crown Prince of Dubai, is the epitome of a doting dad to his one-year-old twins Rashid and Sheikha. His Highness welcomed the twins in May 2021 and over the last year he has shared snippets of the growing little ones on social media. From travels abroad to trips to see the giraffes to passing down his love for horses, Sheikh Hamdan has taken to fatherhood seamlessly. Khalid Al Ameri Known as an avid storyteller, Emirati content creator Khalid Al Ameri regularly shares tidbits about his life, particularly about his two children Khalifa and Abdullah. Al Ameri has previously opened up about his youngest son Abdullah's autism, revealing it changed him for the better in a heartfelt video, which was originally posted to his YouTube channel in 2019. 'He looks at the world differently — the focus he has and the way he cares about things he loves has changed me,' Al Ameri says in the video. 'It has changed me as a father and it has changed me as a human being.' Mohamed Hadid View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mohamedhadid. (@mohamedhadid) Mohamed Hadid is famous for his real estate, where he builds luxury hotels and mansions in Bel Air and Beverly Hills. However, he is perhaps better known as father to Anwar, Gigi, Bella, Marielle and Alana. This celebrity dad is constantly posting about his children, making it very clear how proud he is of their achievements on his Instagram. Ali F. Mostafa View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ali F. Mostafa (@alimostafa) British-Emirati filmmaker Ali F. Mostafa has had great success within the movie industry. However, he's also a doting dad to his three children Ayah, Faisal and Zayed. John Legend View this post on Instagram A post shared by John Legend (@johnlegend) Father to Luna and Miles, John Legend is one of the most doting dads out there. Raising his two children with his wife Chrissy Teigen, Legend is frequently captured wearing matching outfits with his son Miles and treating his daughter to a birthday at Disneyland. David Beckham View this post on Instagram A post shared by David Beckham (@davidbeckham) Former professional footballer David Beckham adores his four children; Brooklyn, Romeo, Cruz and Harper-Seven. The famous family are renowned across the world for their close family dynamics, regularly sharing snippets into their family life on Instagram. Elias Bakhazi Husband to Karen Wazen and father to George, Karile and Kay, Elias Bakhazi always puts his children first. On Instagram, his bio reads 'Proud Daddy and Husband' showing just how important his three children and family are to him. Will Smith View this post on Instagram A post shared by Will Smith (@willsmith) Father to Trey, Jaden and Willow, Will Smith is very close with his children as they frequently accompany him to movie premieres to show support for their father. – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram Feature Image: Instagram @eliasbakhazi
