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Khufu's Named No.1 in the Middle East & North Africa’s 50 Best Restaurants 2026

In an exciting announcement made on February 3, 2026, Khufu's, located in Giza, Egypt, was honored as the Best Restaurant in the Middle East and North Africa for the year. This recognition came during the fifth edition of the Middle East and North Africa’s 50 Best Restaurants awards ceremony, held at the luxurious Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental in Abu Dhabi. The event was sponsored by S.Pellegrino and Acqua Panna, showcasing the vibrancy and diversity of the culinary scene across the region.

Culinary Excellence in Egypt

Khufu's stands out not just for its culinary prowess but also for its commitment to honoring the rich heritage of Egyptian gastronomy. Set against the majestic backdrop of the Great Pyramids, the restaurant successfully blends modern interpretations of traditional Egyptian dishes with an ambiance that evokes the history and culture of the region. The culinary team at Khufu's is dedicated to delivering flavors inspired by the Nile Valley, making every dining experience unique and memorable.

The meticulous preparation and presentation of their dishes have elevated Khufu's status among diners and critics alike, solidifying its reputation in a competitive dining landscape.

The Leading Names in MENA’s Culinary Scene

Following closely behind Khufu's in the rankings are three remarkable restaurants from Dubai. Kinoya takes the second spot, closely followed by Trèsind Studio at third and Orfali Bros at fourth. Notably, Orfali Bros previously held the top position for three consecutive years, attesting to its outstanding reputation. Beihouse, situated in Beirut, clinched the fifth position and was recognized with the Highest New Entry Award, showcasing the emergence of new culinary talents in the region.

Recognizing Excellence

In addition to the top rankings, several prestigious awards were handed out during the ceremony. The Highest Climber Award went to Reif Kushiyaki Cairo, which saw a significant rise of 27 places on the list. The Best Female Chef accolade, sponsored by Elle Vire Professionnel, was awarded to Sara Aqel from Dara Dining by Sara Aqel, celebrating female empowerment within the culinary field. Meanwhile, Omar and Wassim Orfali were recognized as the Best Pastry Chefs, reinforcing the quality of pastry arts in the region.

Special awards also acknowledged significant contributions to the hospitality industry. Muna Haddad from Baraka Destinations was commended for her community-oriented approach, earning the Champions of Change Award. La Grande Table Marocaine at Royal Mansour Marrakech captured the Art of Hospitality Award, reflecting its excellence in service and fine dining. Additionally, Dubai's Middle Child was acknowledged with the One To Watch Award, highlighting its potential to become a future favorite in the culinary world.

The Academy Behind the Rankings

The MENA's 50 Best Restaurants list is curated by an academy made up of 250 independent experts from across the region. Their insights and experiences help shape the rankings, reflecting not just popularity but also culinary innovation and excellence throughout the Middle East and North Africa.

In conclusion, Khufu's achievement as the leading restaurant in MENA for 2026 is not only a celebration of its culinary artistry but also a testament to the ever-evolving food culture in the region. As Khufu's continues to shine brightly, it invites both locals and travelers to partake in a gastronomic adventure steeped in history, flavor, and innovation.