Thomas Keller has officially opened the first of three planned Bouchon Bakery locations in the Middle East, the initial launch located in Dubai at The Beach, Jumeirah Beach Residence. Keller is partnering with international retail franchise operator M.H. Alshaya Co. for the launches.

“As we expand outside the United States, we are pleased to partner with Alshaya, which has a track record of successfully franchising international brands. Together we will make Bouchon Bakery an outstanding destination for our Middle East guests and visitors alike. I’m eagerly looking forward to our official debut,” says Thomas Keller.

The Dubai location will feature staples of Bouchon Bakery. A wide selection of breakfast beverages and pastries, freshly-made sandwiches, soups, quiches and salads will be featured on the menu, in addition to artisanal breads and viennoiseries. Keller's popular TKO cookie (Thomas Keller Oreo) and Bouchon Bakery’s bouchons (rich, chocolatey petite brownies filled with semi-sweet chocolate morsels) will be signature items at the bakery.

Keller is the first and only American chef to have been awarded simultaneous three star Michelin ratings for two different restaurants. He currently holds seven Michelin stars: three at Per Se, three at The French Laundry, and one at Bouchon Bistro.

“We are very pleased to partner with Bouchon Bakery, which has a well-deserved reputation for excellence, under the leadership of Thomas Keller. We look forward to introducing this innovative dining experience to customers in the Middle East and anticipate an exciting future together,” says Mohammed Alshaya, Executive Chairman of M.H. Alshaya Co.