#Middle East #Egypt #50 Best Restaurants #Giza #Khufu's

Khufu's Crowned Best in MENA 2026

In an exciting announcement that sent ripples through the culinary world, Khufu's in Giza, Egypt, has been awarded the title of Best Restaurant in the Middle East & North Africa for 2026. This remarkable recognition, hosted at the esteemed Emirates Palace in Abu Dhabi, was part of the annual event sponsored by S.Pellegrino & Acqua Panna, which highlights the finest culinary establishments across the region.

A Culinary Gem Awaits

Khufu's, strategically nestled at the foot of the iconic Pyramids, has captivated diners with its exceptional dining experience that fuses the rich flavors of Egyptian heritage with modern culinary techniques. The restaurant prides itself on its commitment to sourcing top-quality ingredients, skillfully reinterpreting traditional dishes with a contemporary twist. This unique culinary philosophy embodies the essence of the Nile Valley while resonating on a global scale.

The achievement marks a historic moment as it is the first time a restaurant in Egypt has claimed the top position on the MENA list. This victory underscores Egypt's growing reputation as a culinary destination, showcasing an impressive array of culinary talent in the region.

Celebrating Regional Talent

The announcement involved recognition not only for Khufu's but also for several other remarkable establishments in the MENA region. Following closely behind are three Dubai-based restaurants: Kinoya at No. 2, Trèsind Studio at No. 3, and Orfali Bros at No. 4. Making its debut at an impressive No. 5 is Beihouse in Beirut, which was honored with the Highest New Entry Award for its refined take on Levantine cuisine.

Sara Aqel, the chef behind Dara Dining by Sara Aqel in Amman, received accolades as MENA's Best Female Chef, further exemplifying the region's dedication to promoting exceptional talent in gastronomy. The event also celebrated the Best Pastry Chef award, which went to Omar and Wassim Orfali from Orfali Bros, renowned for their innovative pastry creations.

A Broader Look at Regional Dining

The list, which includes 50 exceptional restaurants, is a testament to the culinary diversity that the Middle East and North Africa have to offer. This year's ranking showcases 16 new entries and reflective of cities such as Dubai, Marrakech, Giza, Casablanca, Doha, and Amman. The UAE's popularity continued, dominating the list with 25 establishments and confirming Dubai's position as a culinary capital.

Saudi Arabia's influence was underscored by Kuuru at No. 6, recognized as the Best Restaurant in Saudi Arabia 2026, while Morocco's Farmers won the Sustainable Restaurant Award, showcasing its commitment to ethical sourcing and environmental responsibility.

Future of Dining in MENA

The event not only celebrates established culinary icons but also emerging talents and restaurants that push the boundaries of traditional cuisines. With chefs like Himanshu Saini from Trèsind Studio taking home the Chefs' Choice Award, it’s clear that the MENA culinary scene is evolving and becoming an influential player on the global stage.

As culinary artists continue to innovate and redefine regional specialties, the list serves as a beacon for food enthusiasts and culinary travelers alike, encouraging exploration of the rich flavors and exceptional dining experiences found throughout the MENA region. The spotlight on Khufu's reinforces the notion that Egypt’s culinary landscape is flourishing and ready to capture the world’s attention.

Conclusion

Khufu's triumph reflects a vibrant culinary scene that honors tradition while embracing modern techniques. Its success not only inspires pride in Egyptian cuisine but also highlights the tremendous growth and potential of the MENA restaurant industry, setting the stage for future culinary excellence. With such exciting developments, food lovers everywhere are encouraged to experience the rich gastronomic tapestry that the Middle East and North Africa offer.