Sakhalin Dubai Awarded Two Toques by Gault&Millau UAE 2026, Named Breakthrough of the Year Finalist

Sakhalin Dubai receives two toques from Gault&Millau UAE 2026, marking exceptional culinary achievement in its inaugural year of operation. The restaurant is the only venue at J1 Beach to earn Gault&Millau distinction.

About Sakhalin Dubai-

Located at J1 Beach in Jumeirah 1, Sakhalin Dubai brings Michelin-starred Chef Vladimir Mukhin's MediterrAsian cuisine to Dubai's coastline. The restaurant combines Mediterranean techniques, Asian sensibilities, and Russian seafood traditions in a sophisticated beachfront setting. Part of White Rabbit Family, Sakhalin Dubai opened in February 2025.

About Gault&Millau-

Founded in 1969 by Henri Gault and Christian Millau, Gault&Millau is one of the world's two most prestigious restaurant guides. It rates restaurants on a 20-point scale focused purely on food quality, awarding one to five toques to exceptional establishments. Anonymous inspectors visit restaurants independently, paying for all meals to ensure unbiased evaluation.

Recognition in Year One-

In its inaugural year of operation, Sakhalin Dubai has earned a score of 14-15.5 out of 20 from Gault&Millau's anonymous inspectors, translating to two toques a rating that represents "a new take on cuisine, prioritising good products, established on a solid technical base." The achievement is particularly notable as Gault&Millau inspectors operate independently, visit anonymously, and pay for their meals, ensuring completely unbiased evaluations.

Founded in 1969, Gault&Millau is recognized alongside Michelin as one of the world's two most prestigious restaurant guides. Unlike other rating systems that consider overall experience, Gault&Millau focuses purely on food quality, technical execution, and culinary innovation. Restaurants cannot apply for ratings nor influence inspectors' visits making recognition a genuine testament to kitchen excellence.

The Value of Distinction-

Sakhalin Dubai's two-toque recognition and Breakthrough of the Year finalist status celebrate what Michelin-starred Chef Vladimir Mukhin and his team have achieved in just twelve months. Out of more than 300 restaurants evaluated across the UAE, only 203 made the 2026 guide, with even fewer awarded toques. The breakthrough category specifically honors restaurants that have made an immediate impact on the UAE's culinary landscape.

"This recognition honors the dedication of our entire team," says Chef Mukhin. "Being seen by Gault&Millau in our first year validates our commitment to quality ingredients, technical precision, and the MediterrAsian philosophy we bring to every plate."

Gastronomy Excellence at Beachside-

Sakhalin Dubai's MediterrAsian approach blending Mediterranean techniques with Asian sensibilities and traditional Russian seafood heritage has distinguished the restaurant within Dubai's competitive dining scene. Chef Mukhin, a fifth-generation culinary master from White Rabbit Family, maintains uncompromising standards: live tanks with premium seafood, seasonal ingredients flown in from pristine waters, and meticulous execution across every service.

The restaurant's philosophy extends beyond the plate. From the sophisticated yet approachable ambiance to the knowledgeable service team, Gault&Millau's inspectors recognized how Sakhali

J1 Beach's Culinary Beacon-

As the only restaurant at J1 Beach to receive Gault&Millau toques, Sakhalin Dubai has established itself as the destination's fine dining anchor. The beachfront location combines Arabian Gulf views with culinary sophistication, proving that remarkable gastronomy can thrive in relaxed, scenic settings.

The team at Sakhalin Dubai extends gratitude to guests, supporters, and industry partners whose enthusiasm and trust made this milestone possible. As the restaurant continues its journey, the two toques and Breakthrough finalist status serve as both recognition of excellence achieved and inspiration for what comes next.

Operating Hours:
Restaurant: 12:00 PM - 12:00 AM
Beach Club: 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM

Contact:
Phone: +971 44 95 16 00
Email: [email protected]
Instagram: @sakhalin.dubai
Location: J1 Beach, Jumeirah 1, Dubai, UAE