ABU DHABI : Four restaurants in Abu Dhabi on Thursday retained their previously awarded Michelin star in the guide’s third edition for the Emirati city. For the latest updates, follow us on Instagram @arabnews.lifestyle The third edition of the ceremony celebrated the city’s vibrant culinary scene. The ceremony, which was held at the Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, did not see any new stars awarded to the city’s restaurants. Instead, 99 Sushi Bar, Talea by Antonio Guida, Erth and Hakkasan all retained their Michelin stars. Michelin star award criteria ranks the quality of ingredients, harmony of flavor, consistency over time and across the menu as well as the chef"s personality in cooking. Meanwhile, the new restaurants added to the Michelin Abu Dhabi guide were Bord’O by Nicolas Isnard, Broadway, Em Sherif Sea Caf, Mika and Ryba. These eateries are highlighted by Michelin, but not awarded stars. The Michelin Guide Service Award was given to Mika, a restaurant in Abu Dhabi’s Yas Island that blends Middle Eastern influences with a Mediterranean touch. Bib Gourmand distinctions are awarded to restaurants that serve excellent food with moderate prices. The newly selected restaurants in this edition were Mika and Ryba. Beirut Sur Mer, Almayass, Otoro, Tazal and Al-Mrzab retained their Bib Gourmand status. The Opening of The Year Award was given to Ryba, a seafood restaurant located in Mina, Abu Dhabi. Chef Faisal Mohamed Al-Harmoodi said his goal was to share Emirati food with the world as he accepted the accolade on stage. The Michelin Young Chef Award was given to Yasmina Hayek from Em Sherif Sea Cafe, a fine dining Mediterranean and Lebanese restaurant in Al Maryah Island. “Abu Dhabi offers a diverse dining scene that caters both to luxury travelers and food enthusiasts,” said Michelin’s Vice President of the Middle East and North Africa Harkesh Jaggi.