Fine Dining in Riyadh Gets a Boost with Latest Michelin Recognition
Riyadh’s dining scene reached a prestigious new pinnacle this week as the Michelin Guide hosted its inaugural celebration in the Saudi capital. The event, held in partnership with the Kingdom’s Culinary Arts Commission, was more than an awards ceremony—it was a powerful endorsement of Saudi Arabia’s place on the global culinary map.
The evening honored the 11 restaurants across Jeddah, AlUla, and Riyadh that have earned the coveted Bib Gourmand distinction, a mark of exceptional food at exceptional value. Winners like Riyadh’s Em Sharif Cafe, Najd Village, and KAYZO, alongside Jeddah’s Samia’s Dish and AlUla’s Tofareya, represent the rich diversity of the nation’s food culture, from authentic heritage dishes to contemporary innovations.
Spotlight on Special Talents
Beyond the Bib Gourmand honors, the ceremony introduced three special awards, highlighting the depth of talent in the Saudi hospitality sector:
- The Michelin Service Award was presented to Yaza in Jeddah, commended for delivering an exceptional, seamless dining experience.
- The Exceptional Mocktail Award went to Il Baretto’s Santiago Latorre in Riyadh, recognizing the artistry and creativity of the non-alcoholic beverage offering.
- The Young Chef Award was bestowed upon Elia Kaady of Maiz in Riyadh, spotlighting one of the region’s most promising culinary talents.
A Culinary Culture Faithful to Its Roots
Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the Michelin Guide, captured the essence of the moment. He noted that Saudi chefs, while inspired by global influences, remain deeply “faithful to their roots, to their heritage, to their product.” This commitment to telling an “authentic and unique story” through food, he affirmed, holds significant value for the Guide’s inspectors.
The celebration underscored a remarkable trajectory. Following the final wave of announcements in December, a total of 51 restaurants across the Kingdom now hold a place in the Michelin Guide, including 40 in the “Selected” category. This solid foundation points to a vibrant and mature dining ecosystem.
The formal event transitioned into a dynamic culinary showcase, where three internationally acclaimed Michelin-starred kitchens—including the three-star Le Gabriel from Paris—shared the stage with local Bib Gourmand honorees. This fusion of global excellence and homegrown flavor perfectly symbolized the Kingdom’s culinary ambition.
By bringing its revered platform to Riyadh, the Michelin Guide has done more than hand out awards. It has officially spotlighted a “unique and authentic food culture” that is confidently claiming its seat at the world’s table. For food lovers in the Kingdom and visitors alike, the message is clear: Saudi Arabia’s culinary journey is just beginning, and its story is one the world is eager to taste.
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