3 Special Awards Announced at the MICHELIN Guide Restaurant Celebration Saudi Arabia 2026

Core Insights - The MICHELIN Guide Saudi Arabia 2026 features a total of 51 restaurants, highlighting the country's evolving culinary landscape [1][13][20] - The inaugural MICHELIN Guide Restaurant Celebration showcased 11 restaurants awarded the Bib Gourmand distinction for exceptional cuisine at great value, alongside 40 establishments recognized in the Selected category [1][13] Restaurant Selection - The selection includes notable restaurants such as Em Sherif Café, Fi Glbak, and KAYZŌ, all of which received the Bib Gourmand distinction [10][14] - A detailed list of selected restaurants includes various establishments in Riyadh, Jeddah, and AlUla, with specific mentions of their distinctions [15] Special Awards - The MICHELIN Guide also presented Special Awards, including the Young Chef Award to Chef Elia Kaady from Maiz, recognizing his culinary journey and talent [6] - Il Baretto in Riyadh received the Exceptional Mocktail Award for its innovative non-alcoholic beverage offerings [7] - Yaza in Jeddah was honored with the Service Award for its exceptional hospitality and dining experience [8] Ceremony and Presentation - The announcement of the restaurant selections was uniquely staged through a dedicated website, emphasizing themes of hospitality, women, and breads in Saudi Arabia [2] - The official plaque distribution ceremony marked a significant moment for the awarded restaurants, allowing them to display their achievements [3]