#Egypt #MENA 50 Best #S.Pellegrino #Giza #Khufu's

Khufu's Restaurant Takes the Top Spot in MENA's Culinary Landscape

On February 3, 2026, the culinary world was abuzz as Khufu's, located in Giza, Egypt, proudly received the title of The Best Restaurant in the Middle East and North Africa for 2026. This prestigious award is sponsored by S.Pellegrino & Acqua Panna and was announced during an elegant ceremony held at the Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental in Abu Dhabi.

The Middle East and North Africa's 50 Best Restaurants list showcases exemplary dining establishments and this year's edition saw restaurants from fourteen cities, including vibrant culinary capitals like Marrakech, Beirut, Doha, Casablanca, and Amman. Impressively, the list welcomed sixteen newcomers, demonstrating the ever-evolving and diverse food scene in the region.

Khufu's restaurant, known for its modern and sophisticated interpretations of Egyptian cuisine, honors the rich gastronomic heritage of Egypt while celebrating the flavors of the Nile Valley. Set against the iconic backdrop of the Great Pyramids, Khufu's offers its diners not just a meal, but an unforgettable dining experience that merges contemporary Egyptian gastronomy with one of the world's most historic settings.

Following Khufu's on the list were three esteemed restaurants based in Dubai: Kinoya at No. 2, Trèsind Studio at No. 3, and Orfali Bros at No. 4. Notably, Orfali Bros previously held the No. 1 position for three consecutive years, proving the fierce competition in this gastronomical ranking. The fifth spot went to Beihouse in Beirut, which also earned the Highest New Entry Award.

Several special awards were given during the ceremony, highlighting the talent within the culinary industry. For instance, Reif Kushiyaki Cairo, placed at No. 20, was recognized for its remarkable leap of 27 positions, earning it the Highest Climber Award. Additionally, Sara Aqel from Dara Dining by Sara Aqel was acknowledged as MENA's Best Female Chef, while Omar and Wassim Orfali clinched the title of MENA's Best Pastry Chef.

Other noteworthy recognitions included Salam Dakkak's Sufret Maryam at No. 7 and Bait Maryam, which received the Sevenrooms Icon Award. Himanshu Saini from Trèsind Studio was also celebrated with the Estrella Damm 0.0% Chefs' Choice Award. Furthermore, the Sustainable Restaurant Award, sponsored by illy, went to Farmers ranked at No. 49.

Before the award ceremony, three special awards were disclosed. Muna Haddad, founder of Baraka Destinations, was honored with the Champions of Change Award for her community-focused approach to hospitality and tourism in Jordan. Meanwhile, La Grande Table Marocaine at Royal Mansour in Marrakech received the Art of Hospitality Award for its dedication to high-end Moroccan gastronomy. Lastly, Middle Child in Dubai was recognized with the One To Watch Award for its potential to impact future MENA's 50 Best Restaurants listings.

The list representing the pinnacle of culinary excellence is curated by the MENA's 50 Best Restaurants Academy, comprised of 250 independent experts from across the region. This award serves not only as a celebration of excellence in dining but also as a beacon of cultural culinary heritage that continues to thrive in the Middle East and North Africa.

As Khufu's restaurant steps into the spotlight with this notable accolade, it emphasizes the continuous evolution of the culinary arts within a region rich with history, flavor, and innovation.