MICHELIN Guide Saudi Arabia 2026 Celebrates Culinary Excellence with 51 Restaurants and Special Awards
The MICHELIN Guide Saudi Arabia 2026 has marked a significant milestone in the country's culinary evolution with the inaugural MICHELIN Guide Restaurant Celebration. This prestigious event highlighted the dynamic and sophisticated dining landscape across Saudi Arabia, showcasing a total of 51 restaurants that have earned recognition in the 2026 selection. The celebration, which unfolded in a unique three-phase digital reveal, culminated in a ceremonial plaque distribution, personally delivering official MICHELIN plaques to each honored establishment as a symbol of their achievement.
Expanding Culinary Recognition
This year's MICHELIN Guide selection underscores the growing diversity and refinement of Saudi Arabia's restaurant scene. Among the 51 featured restaurants, 11 have been awarded the Bib Gourmand distinction, recognized for offering exceptional cuisine at great value, while 40 establishments have been included in the Selected category. The reveal process was historic, as it was the first time in MICHELIN Guide history that announcements were staged through a dedicated website, with themes focusing on hospitality, women, and breads in Saudi Arabia, offering fresh insights into the nation's rich cuisine and culture.
Special Awards Highlight Talent and Innovation
In addition to the restaurant distinctions, the MICHELIN Guide presented three special awards to honor outstanding contributions to the hospitality industry. The Young Chef Award was granted to Chef Elia Kaady of Maiz in Riyadh, whose culinary journey began in Beirut and has flourished in Saudi Arabia, inspired by his brother's mentorship. Il Baretto in Riyadh received the Exceptional Mocktail Award for its creative and refined non-alcoholic cocktails, crafted by Bar Manager Santiago Latorre with Italian-inspired elegance. Yaza in Jeddah earned the Service Award for its exceptional hospitality, where guests are welcomed with Arabic coffee and dates and guided by a passionate team that enhances the dining experience with thoughtful recommendations.
Criteria and Celebratory Events
MICHELIN distinctions are awarded based on five universal criteria: quality of ingredients, harmony of flavors, mastery of techniques, expression of the chef's personality through cuisine, and consistency across the menu and over time. The celebration in Riyadh featured an exclusive premium mocktail reception, bringing together six guest chefs, including three international talents and three from the MICHELIN Guide Saudi Arabia 2026 selection, to showcase innovative gastronomic creations. This event highlighted the global and local culinary excellence that defines Saudi Arabia's vibrant food scene.
