Latest news with #GwendalPoullennec
Yahoo
4 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
California raises the bar with two Three Starred restaurants joining 2025 selection
This year's MICHELIN Guide California ceremony was full of celebration as the selection was revealed. The 2025 selection raised the bar with two new Three Starred restaurants. Providence in Hollywood was promoted from Two Stars and Somni in West Hollywood enters the selection with Three Stars SACRAMENTO, Calif, June 25, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Providence and Somni earn Three MICHELIN Stars Two restaurants earn Two MICHELIN Stars and five earn One MICHELIN Star Selection boasts two new Green Stars and six new Bib Gourmands SACRAMENTO, Calif., June 25, 2025 — This year's MICHELIN Guide California ceremony was full of celebration as the selection was revealed. The 2025 selection raised the bar with two new Three Starred restaurants. Providence in Hollywood was promoted from Two Stars and Somni in West Hollywood enters the selection with Three Stars. The excitement continued with Enclos in Sonoma entering the selection with Two Stars and and Kiln in San Francisco being promoted from One Star to Two Stars. The 2025 selection also welcomed five new One Starred restaurants bringing the state's total to 65. Additionally, two new MICHELIN Green Stars were awarded to Enclos and Sons & Daughters in San Francisco for their efforts in sustainable gastronomy. The full selection, including Bib Gourmands and recommended restaurants, totals 548 eateries spanning 55 cuisine types. 'Tonight marked a momentous evening for California and its culinary community,' said Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the MICHELIN Guide. 'Our anonymous Inspectors discovered extraordinary culinary gems to highlight in this year's selection, including two new Three Star restaurants, Providence and Somni. Congratulations to all of the chefs and restaurant teams awarded tonight. We are proud to welcome you all into the MICHELIN Guide family.' Here are the new MICHELIN Star restaurants, with Inspector notes from each (Inspectors' comments in full on the MICHELIN Guide website and mobile app): Three MICHELIN Stars Providence (Hollywood; Seafood cuisine) As has been the case since opening in 2005, purity and precision are the underpinnings of Chef Michael Cimarusti's California cooking; and his cuisine has grown even more impressive over the years. The tasting menu blends classic technique with a modern sensibility, global inspiration, and sources the freshest and most sustainable seafood, often wild-caught from American waters. At no point during the meal will you doubt its impeccable quality, especially while savoring dishes such as a tart of lobster mousse and box crab set in a crab beurre blanc, or roasted monkfish with cauliflower and shaved black truffles. Longstanding signatures like the soft-poached egg with uni and breadcrumbs or salt-roasted Santa Barbara spot prawns make for luxurious add-ons. Somni (West Hollywood; Contemporary cuisine) Chef Aitor Zabala and his dedicated team have awakened Somni, or "dream" from a long sleep and have fashioned this revamped iteration as a distinctly personal and unique dining experience. Tucked away just off Santa Monica Ave., the dining room's soothing, creamy palette with light wood and glass is marked by a colorful bull's head from the original spot, hinting at the Spanish-inflected cuisine. A procession of small bites is meticulously arranged and endlessly creative, sating diners with an abundance of rich flavors and textural interplay (think mussel escabeche, gazpacho, or the iconic shiso tartare tempura). All the while, the kitchen and service teams are in lockstep as they create and serve these arresting dishes. Two MICHELIN Stars Enclos (Sonoma; Contemporary cuisine) Concealed inside an 1880 Victorian on the Stone Edge Farm Winery property, once inside this glittering workshop, guests enter a rarified realm. An opulent tasting menu marries global flavors, refined technique, and exceptional ingredients, including produce sourced from their two farms, all shot through with subtle nods to Chef Brian Limoges's New England roots. Take, for example, a clever "lobster roll" croustade made up of spiny lobster tartare in a crisp shell, or a clam chawanmushi that subtly evokes the flavor of chowder. The fireworks continue through to dessert, where a breathtaking sorrel ice cream is decorated with edible leaves flavored with makrut lime and pomegranate. All the while, diners will find the staff effortlessly charming, making the experience all the more magical. Kiln (San Francisco; Contemporary cuisine) Industry veterans Chef John Wesley and general manager Julianna Yang have combined their talents at Kiln, where the warehouse space is warmed by personable service and the kitchen delivers artful creations. The tasting menu leans Nordic, highlighting preservation techniques like curing, drying and fermentation in dishes whose simplicity is belied by intricate techniques and compelling flavor combinations. The creative energy is consistent throughout the meal, offering plenty to impress guests. Opening snacks like a crispy curlicue of puffed beef tendon captures this ethos, while others, like a squab breast lacquered with burnt honey and served with a truffled jus, display a classical bent. One MICHELIN Star Lilo (Carlsbad; Californian cuisine) Good things often come in small packages, and it's certainly true of Lilo, where guests are welcomed to a moveable feast beginning on the heated patio with an array of small bites before moving into the petite dining room. Chef Eric Bost and his team take clear pride in providing an extra level of care in their dishes, evidenced in plates like dry-aged Japanese kinmedai paired with a ragout of geoduck and bone marrow or 40-day dry-aged beef ribeye with preserved gurumelo mushrooms, seaweed, and bordelaise. Halfway through, the dishes shift from savory to sweet for a one-off orgeat ice cream topped with celery root bushi and Ossetra cavia, and later concludes with a myriad of desserts like sweet cream gelato topped with hoja santa and finger lime. Mori Nozomi (Los Angeles; Sushi/Japanese cuisine) Chef Nozomi Mori's sushi counter stands apart from the pack, both for its excellent sushi and for its hospitable staff in the front and back of house. Plan in advance to visit this special spot, where there are just eight seats at the wood counter. While the fish is flown in several times a week from Japan, local, seasonal produce is worked into nearly every dish. Even the smallest details matter here, as evidenced by the Japanese ice imported for use in their five-course tea pairing. Begin with a number of dishes, like chawanmushi with gingko nuts, before enjoying the well-executed nigiri. Mochi accompanied by matcha prepared by the chef herself is an elegant final act. Restaurant Ki (Los Angelese; Korean Contemporary cuisine) You'll need to read the instructions sent ahead of time to find the entrance to Chef Ki Kim's restaurant, but any navigation woes are quickly put to rest once you're inside this ten-seat spot. The contemporary Korean tasting menu pulls in global influences, and meals begin with a few bites such as shirako gimbap, a shell filled with truffle rice and diced kimchi, or crispy, tender octopus in a creamy sauce with octopus head and gochujang. Charred sugar snap peas with stillhead trout roe and tuna or creamy pasta made with perilla seed and topped with fresh winter truffle display a creative flair. Main dishes include the likes of barbecue roasted squab with foie gras sauce, and 45-day dry- aged dairy cow with golden beet jus and Korean bone broth. A mushroom ice cream sandwich seals the deal. Silvers Omakase (Santa Barbara; Sushi/Japanese cuisine) With just a handful of seats and a small staff, this omakase from Chef Lennon Silvers Lee is ever-changing. Some things change daily, while others change weekly, but one thing you can always expect is well-executed dishes made with rice from Japan that is milled in house, and fish that is sourced both locally and from Japan and then dry aged. Arrive early and enjoy a glass of sparkling wine before being called in, as all guests are seated and served at the same time. Enjoy one or two small dishes before a parade of nigiri, which may include hamachi, shima aji, as well as bluefin tuna. Their uni rice is deliciously mixed with wasabi and topped with masago arare for a bit of crunch, marking the end of the savory dishes before a dessert of sorbet made in house. Sun Moon Studio (Oakland; Californian cuisine) A slightly clandestine air still prevails outside this inconspicuous little spot, but the secret is out: the handful of seats inside are hotly in demand. Chefs Alan Hsu and Sarah Cooper have both worked in some of the country's most celebrated kitchens, but here channel their talents on a more intimate scale. Their shared vision emerges in a mercurial seasonal tasting menu that dutifully celebrates the wealth of Californian ingredients, spanning squab to rockfish and wild mushrooms to citrus. The style is pared down and technically precise, letting products shine while adding a spark of personality, as in Dungeness crab with yuzu kosho butter, perched over silken tofu. Baked items like savory egg tarts with salmon roe, or steamed brioche buns enclosing Taiwanese sausage, are highlights. MICHELIN Green Star Enclos (Sonoma; Contemporary cuisine) Initiatives: locally sourced organic produce via nearby culinary gardens; sustainable/regenerative practices in garden; carbon negative and energy independent operations; fallen trees repurposed into chopsticks and serving trays; waste is minimized through preservation and fermentation. Sons & Daughters (San Francisco; Contemporary cuisine) Initiatives: food sourced through local eco-conscious farmers, fisherman and ranchers; in-house dairy program resulting in their own butter, creme fraiche, fresh cheese and yogurt; source aprons, plates and woodwork from local ceramicists and artisans. Bib Gourmand The MICHELIN Guide Inspectors gave 123 restaurants the Bib Gourmand distinction, which recognizes eateries for great food at a great value. The full list can be found Special Awards In addition to the Bib Gourmands and Stars, the Guide announced four Special Awards: The MICHELIN Guide Ceremony is presented with the support of Capital One. Hotels The restaurants join the MICHELIN Guide selection of hotels, which features the most unique and exciting places to stay in California and throughout the world. Each hotel in the selection has been chosen by MICHELIN Guide experts for its extraordinary style, service and personality — with options for all budgets — and each can be booked directly through the MICHELIN Guide website and app. The selection for California features the state's most spectacular hotels, including Canyon Ranch Woodside (three MICHELIN Keys) nestled among giant redwoods on the San Francisco Peninsula, the Bernadus Lodge & Spa (two MICHELIN Keys) located in Carmel Valley and home to its own vineyard, or the Georgian (one MICHELIN Key), a rare piece of Old Hollywood glamour in modern Santa Monica. The MICHELIN Guide is a benchmark in gastronomy. Now it's setting a new standard for hotels. Visit the MICHELIN Guide website, or download the free app for iOS and Android, to discover every restaurant in the selection and book an unforgettable hotel. The 2025 MICHELIN Guide California selection: The MICHELIN Guide in North America Michelin announced its first North American Guide in 2005 for New York. Guides have also been added in Chicago (2011); Washington, D.C. (2017); California (San Francisco in 2007, statewide 2019); Florida (Greater Miami, Orlando and Tampa in 2022, adding Greater Fort Lauderdale, The Palm Beaches and St. Pete-Clearwater in 2025, statewide in 2026); Toronto (2022); Vancouver (2022); Colorado (2023); Atlanta (2023), Mexico (2024), Texas (2024), Québec (2024), the American South (2025), Boston (2025) and Philadelphia (2025). About the MICHELIN Guide Recognized globally for excellence and quality, the MICHELIN Guide offers a selection of world-class restaurants. The famous one, two and three MICHELIN Stars identify establishments serving exceptional cuisine that's rich in flavor, remarkably executed and infused with the personality of a talented chef. The Bib Gourmand is a designation given to select restaurants that offer good quality food for a good value – often known as personal favorites among the Inspectors when dining on their own time. The MICHELIN Green Star honors restaurants that are pioneers in sustainable Recommended restaurants and special professional awards are also highlighted by the MICHELIN Guide The MICHELIN Guide remains a reliable companion for any traveler seeking an unforgettable meal and hospitality experience. The Guide was first published in France at the turn of the 20th century to encourage the development of car mobility as well as tire sales by giving practical advice to motorists. Progressively, the Guide has specialized in restaurant and hotel recommendations. Michelin's Inspectors still use the same criteria and manner of selection that were used by the Inspectors in the very beginning. The restaurant selections join the MICHELIN Guide selection of hotels, which features the most unique and exciting places to stay around the world. Visit the MICHELIN Guide website, or download the free app for iOS and Android, to discover every restaurant in the selection and book an amazing hotel. Thanks to the rigorous MICHELIN Guide selection process that is applied independently and consistently in more than 50 destinations, the MICHELIN Guide has become an international benchmark in fine dining. All restaurants in the Guide are recommended by Michelin's anonymous Inspectors, who are trained to apply the same time-tested methods used by Michelin Inspectors for many decades throughout the world. This ensures a uniform, international standard of excellence. As a further guarantee of complete objectivity, Michelin Inspectors pay all their bills in full, and only the quality of the cuisine is evaluated. To fully assess the quality of a restaurant, the Inspectors apply five criteria defined by Michelin: product quality; mastery of cooking techniques; harmony of flavors; the personality of the chef as reflected in the cuisine; and consistency over time and across the entire menu. These criteria guarantee a consistent and fair selection so a Starred restaurant has the same value regardless of whether it is in Paris, New York or anywhere else in the world. About Michelin North America, Inc. Michelin is building a world-leading manufacturer of life-changing composites and experiences. Pioneering engineered materials for more than 130 years, Michelin is uniquely positioned to make decisive contributions to human progress and to a more sustainable world. Drawing on its deep know-how in polymer composites, Michelin is constantly innovating to manufacture high- quality tires and components for critical applications in demanding fields as varied as mobility, construction, aeronautics, low-carbon energies and healthcare. The care placed in its products and deep customer knowledge inspire Michelin to offer the finest experiences. This spans from providing data- and AI-based connected solutions for professional fleets to recommending outstanding restaurants and hotels curated by the MICHELIN Guide. Headquartered in Greenville, S.C., Michelin North America, Inc. has approximately 23,500 employees and operates 36 production facilities in the United States ( and Canada ( About Capital One At Capital One we're on a mission for our customers – bringing them best-in-class products, rewards, service, and experiences. Capital One is a diversified bank that offers products and services to individuals, small businesses and commercial clients. We use technology, innovation, and interaction to provide consumers with products and services to meet their needs. Through Capital One Dining and Capital One Entertainment, we provide our rewards cardholders with access to unforgettable experiences in the areas they're passionate about, including dining, music and sports. Learn more at and For more information, contact: Carly GrieffMichelin North America CONTACT: Name: Carly Grieff Email: Job Title: Public Relations ManagerError in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Barnama
4 days ago
- Business
- Barnama
MICHELIN Guide Expands To Saudi Arabia, Eyes Riyadh And Jeddah In 2026 Debut
BUSINESS KUALA LUMPUR, June 25 (Bernama) -- The MICHELIN Guide has announced its first-ever entry into Saudi Arabia, with a new restaurant selection set to spotlight the culinary scenes of Riyadh and Jeddah while also extending its reach to emerging gastronomic hubs such as AlUla, Khobar, and other regions of the Kingdom. According to a statement, the guide's anonymous inspectors have been operating in the country for the past year, evaluating restaurants based on MICHELIN's globally recognised criteria. The inaugural Saudi Arabia edition will debut in three phases, with selections to be revealed on the 15th of each month from October to December 2025 via "These past few years, our MICHELIN inspectors have been keeping a watchful eye on the Kingdom's culinary progression and continue to relish the wonderful spectrum that this fast-developing country has to offer,' said MICHELIN Guide International Director, Gwendal Poullennec. The expansion is seen as a milestone for the Kingdom's growing hospitality and tourism sectors, aligning with broader national efforts to showcase Saudi Arabia's cultural assets to a global audience. The move is being carried out in collaboration with the Saudi Culinary Arts Commission. Saudi Culinary Arts Commission Chief Executive Officer, Mayada Badr said: 'Our collaboration with the MICHELIN Guide marks an important milestone in celebrating the unique and diverse culinary scene of Saudi Arabia. 'It shines a light on the creativity and excellence of our chefs and restaurants and invites the world to discover the distinct flavours and experiences the Kingdom has to offer.' Saudi Arabia offers a distinctive blend of traditional flavours and modern culinary innovation, with influences spanning regional specialities to international cuisine, including Japanese, Chinese, Greek, and Thai. The MICHELIN Guide's entry is expected to attract both domestic and international food enthusiasts eager to explore this evolving gastronomic landscape. The Saudi Arabia 2026 selection marks the latest step in the MICHELIN Guide's expansion into the Middle East, following earlier launches in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Doha.
Gulf Insider
5 days ago
- Gulf Insider
The MICHELIN Guide Officially Expands to Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia's culinary scene has just levelled up. The MICHELIN Guide, arguably the world's most recognised name in restaurant ratings, has officially expanded into the Kingdom with its first-ever Saudi edition covering Riyadh and Jeddah. The guide also begins dipping a toe into other destinations like AlUla and Khobar, promising more to come as Saudi Arabia's gastronomic story unfolds. For those unfamiliar, MICHELIN's reputation rests on its famously anonymous inspectors, who travel the world in search of culinary brilliance. In Saudi Arabia, they've been quietly tasting their way across the Kingdom for some time, and now their findings are set to take centre stage. 'Over the past few years, our MICHELIN inspectors have been keeping a watchful eye on the Kingdom's culinary progression,' says Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the MICHELIN Guide. 'They continue to relish the wonderful spectrum that this fast-developing country has to offer.' The guide's entry into Saudi Arabia doesn't just celebrate fine food, it nods to the broader evolution of a nation balancing deep-rooted tradition with contemporary flair. From the deserts of Najd to the Red Sea coast, the Kingdom offers a backdrop as rich as its recipes. UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Diriyah sit side by side with futuristic megaprojects, making the culinary offerings just one piece of an increasingly fascinating puzzle. Hospitality is at the heart of Saudi culture. Whether you're being handed a dish of fragrant kabsa in a traditional home or biting into a modern chef's reimagining of a centuries-old recipe, there's a common thread: generosity, pride, and flavour. And let's talk diversity. Beyond local dishes like masabeeb (honey-drenched pancakes) and sambosas with a Saudi twist, the Kingdom's dining scene features Japanese omakase counters, upscale Greek bistros, American comfort food, and more. Riyadh's VIA district alone is a who's who of global restaurant brands. Simply put, Saudi Arabia's restaurant culture is no longer just booming; it's global, and now, MICHELIN-approved. Mayada Badr, CEO of the Saudi Culinary Arts Commission, says this moment has been a long time coming: 'Our collaboration with the MICHELIN Guide marks an important milestone in celebrating the unique and diverse culinary scene of Saudi Arabia. It shines a light on the creativity and excellence of our chefs and restaurants and invites the world to discover the distinct flavours and experiences the Kingdom has to offer.' It's more than just recognition. MICHELIN's arrival will put local chefs on an international platform, encourage culinary innovation, and attract food travellers to experience Saudi's flavours first-hand. Behind the stars and hype is a consistent methodology. MICHELIN inspectors work independently and anonymously, rating restaurants on five core criteria: Quality of the ingredients Mastery of cooking techniques Harmony of flavours Personality of the chef through the cuisine Consistency over time and across the menu The famous stars are awarded as follows: One Star for high-quality cooking, worth a stop for high-quality cooking, worth a stop Two Stars for excellent cooking, worth a detour for excellent cooking, worth a detour Three Stars for exceptional cuisine, worth a special journey There's also the Bib Gourmand category, celebrating places that serve good food at moderate prices—because great doesn't always have to mean pricey. Rather than a single grand unveiling, MICHELIN will roll out its first Saudi restaurant selection across three digital releases. On the 15th of each month from October to December 2025, new names will be revealed on the official platform. So, whether you're a seasoned foodie or just curious where to eat on your next trip to Riyadh or Jeddah, the Kingdom's MICHELIN moment is now, and the guide is just getting started.
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Yahoo
The Michelin Guide Expands Its Culinary Horizons to Saudi Arabia
MICHELIN KSA CAC QR code 2 QR code 1 125 years The MICHELIN Guide announced its arrival in a new destination: Saudi Arabia, for an upcoming 2026 edition. The restaurant selection for the inaugural edition will be unveiled towards the end of the year 2025. The renowned anonymous MICHELIN Inspectors are already in the field, meticulously exploring the Kingdom's vibrant culinary scene. RIYADH, Saudi Arabia, June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The MICHELIN Guide announced today its latest expansion into the vibrant culinary landscapes of Saudi Arabia. This new selection will focus on the bustling cities of Riyadh and Jeddah, while also beginning to explore the diverse regions of the Kingdom, including Khobar, AlUla, and many more. The prestigious guide revealed that its independent, anonymous inspectors have been thoroughly exploring these areas to identify the most outstanding dining establishments. This selection will highlight the best of Saudi Arabia's dining scene, showcasing talented chefs and teams who embody passion, creativity, and respect for local culinary traditions. "These past few years, our MICHELIN inspectors have been keeping a watchful eye on The Kingdom's culinary progression and continue to relish the wonderful spectrum that this fast-developing country has to offer,' explained Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the MICHELIN Guide. Saudi Arabia stands as a unique destination, offering an exquisite blend of ancient history, rich culture, and modern luxury. The Kingdom's diverse landscapes, from the vast deserts to the stunning Red Sea coastline, provide a backdrop for unforgettable experiences. It is home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Diriyah, and its deep historical and cultural heritage sets it apart. This distinctive blend makes Saudi Arabia an unmatched destination for food lovers, history enthusiasts, and avid travelers. The warmth and generosity of the Saudi people further enhance the travel experience, making every visitor feel welcome and valued. From the heartwarming traditional Saudi restaurants keen to preserve and showcase recipes that have been handed down through the generations, to the always-packed restaurants, and jaw-dropping malls such as VIA Riyadh that feature renowned global brands. Saudi Arabia's diverse and dynamic food culture, from the aromatic spices of traditional dishes to the contemporary creations of modern chefs, is now set to receive the global recognition it deserves. The MICHELIN Guide's presence will not only highlight the culinary talents within the Kingdom but also attract food enthusiasts and connoisseurs from around the globe, eager to explore the unique and exquisite flavors that Saudi Arabia has to offer. Unforgettable experiences aplenty; be it kabsa in a Najd setting or Mubahar rice with the locals, fabulous mini cheese and honey glazed sambosas galore or a mouthwatering masabeeb, the generosity, pride, and hospitality remain firmly in the memory. Additionally, our inspectors observed an impressive culinary diversity, where American cuisine mingles with Japanese, Chinese, Greek, and Thai. Whether it's exceptional Saudi dishes or global favorites, Saudi Arabia offers something for every international traveler eager to explore the captivating sights while savoring the diverse culinary offerings. Mayada Badr, the CEO of the Saudi Culinary Arts Commission, said: 'Our collaboration with the MICHELIN Guide marks an important milestone in celebrating the unique and diverse culinary scene of Saudi Arabia. It shines a light on the creativity and excellence of our chefs and restaurants, and invites the world to discover the distinct flavors and experiences the Kingdom has to offer.' For decades, the MICHELIN Guide has been the gold standard in recognizing and celebrating exceptional dining experiences. Its arrival in Saudi Arabia is a testament to the country's burgeoning culinary landscape, where tradition meets innovation, and local flavors are elevated to new heights. As the MICHELIN Guide begins its journey in the Kingdom, it invites both locals and visitors to embark on a culinary adventure like no other. The MICHELIN Guide MethodologyThe MICHELIN Guide was created in 1900 by the Michelin tire company to support the growth of automobile mobility. Since then, it has remained loyal to its original mission: to settle in mature gastronomic destinations, to guide international travelers and local foodies to the best restaurants, to highlight world culinary scenes, and to promote travel culture. The selection will be made according to the MICHELIN Guide's historic methodology, focusing only on the quality of the cuisine proposed by the restaurants, which the anonymous MICHELIN Guide Inspectors evaluate by following five universal criteria: The quality of the ingredients The mastery of cooking techniques The harmony of flavors The personality of the cuisine The consistency both over time and through the menu as a whole The MICHELIN Guide Restaurant SelectionThe MICHELIN Guide conveys its restaurant reviews through an extensive system of distinctions, which are awarded to special restaurants within its full selection. The most famous distinctions are its globally renowned MICHELIN Stars awarded to the restaurant offering the best culinary experiences. One MICHELIN Star is awarded to restaurants for 'high-quality cooking that is worth a stop,' two MICHELIN Stars for 'excellent cooking that is worth a detour,' and three MICHELIN Stars for 'exceptional cuisine that is worth a special journey.' Alongside the coveted Star ratings, the selection also includes the popular Bib Gourmand category, a distinction awarded to restaurants that provide good quality food at a moderate price. The MICHELIN Guide is committed to maintaining the highest global standards in its restaurant selection process. Our team of anonymous, experienced, and expert inspectors conduct continuous and rigorous evaluations of restaurants. These evaluations are carried out objectively and independently, ensuring that external factors do not influence the results. This dedication to impartiality and excellence guarantees that only outstanding dining establishments are recognized. For the first time, the MICHELIN Guide Saudi Arabia 2026 selection will be revealed in three stages. On the 15th of each month from October to December 2025, the inaugural selection for Saudi Arabia will be unveiled on our dedicated digital platform: To learn more about the MICHELIN Guide history, methodology or selection organization, please visit or follow updates on and MICHELIN Guide Worldwide app for iOS and Android Dedicated Website : @MichelinGuide The MICHELIN Guide celebrates its 125th anniversary! About Michelin Michelin is building a world-leading manufacturer of life-changing composites and experiences. Pioneering engineered materials for more than 130 years, Michelin is uniquely positioned to make decisive contributions to human progress and to a more sustainable world. Drawing on its deep know-how in polymer composites, Michelin is constantly innovating to manufacture high-quality tires and components for critical applications in demanding fields as varied as mobility, construction, aeronautics, low-carbon energies, and healthcare. The care placed in its products and deep customer knowledge inspire Michelin to offer the finest experiences. This spans from providing data- and AI-based connected solutions for professional fleets to recommending outstanding restaurants and hotels curated by the MICHELIN Guide. Headquartered in Clermont-Ferrand, France, Michelin is present in 175 countries and employs 129,800 people. ( Photos accompanying this announcement are available at CONTACT: Press Contact BPG Group michelinguide@ in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Yahoo
The Michelin Guide Expands Its Culinary Horizons to Saudi Arabia
MICHELIN KSA CAC QR code 2 QR code 1 125 years The MICHELIN Guide announced its arrival in a new destination: Saudi Arabia, for an upcoming 2026 edition. The restaurant selection for the inaugural edition will be unveiled towards the end of the year 2025. The renowned anonymous MICHELIN Inspectors are already in the field, meticulously exploring the Kingdom's vibrant culinary scene. RIYADH, Saudi Arabia, June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The MICHELIN Guide announced today its latest expansion into the vibrant culinary landscapes of Saudi Arabia. This new selection will focus on the bustling cities of Riyadh and Jeddah, while also beginning to explore the diverse regions of the Kingdom, including Khobar, AlUla, and many more. The prestigious guide revealed that its independent, anonymous inspectors have been thoroughly exploring these areas to identify the most outstanding dining establishments. This selection will highlight the best of Saudi Arabia's dining scene, showcasing talented chefs and teams who embody passion, creativity, and respect for local culinary traditions. "These past few years, our MICHELIN inspectors have been keeping a watchful eye on The Kingdom's culinary progression and continue to relish the wonderful spectrum that this fast-developing country has to offer,' explained Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the MICHELIN Guide. Saudi Arabia stands as a unique destination, offering an exquisite blend of ancient history, rich culture, and modern luxury. The Kingdom's diverse landscapes, from the vast deserts to the stunning Red Sea coastline, provide a backdrop for unforgettable experiences. It is home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Diriyah, and its deep historical and cultural heritage sets it apart. This distinctive blend makes Saudi Arabia an unmatched destination for food lovers, history enthusiasts, and avid travelers. The warmth and generosity of the Saudi people further enhance the travel experience, making every visitor feel welcome and valued. From the heartwarming traditional Saudi restaurants keen to preserve and showcase recipes that have been handed down through the generations, to the always-packed restaurants, and jaw-dropping malls such as VIA Riyadh that feature renowned global brands. Saudi Arabia's diverse and dynamic food culture, from the aromatic spices of traditional dishes to the contemporary creations of modern chefs, is now set to receive the global recognition it deserves. The MICHELIN Guide's presence will not only highlight the culinary talents within the Kingdom but also attract food enthusiasts and connoisseurs from around the globe, eager to explore the unique and exquisite flavors that Saudi Arabia has to offer. Unforgettable experiences aplenty; be it kabsa in a Najd setting or Mubahar rice with the locals, fabulous mini cheese and honey glazed sambosas galore or a mouthwatering masabeeb, the generosity, pride, and hospitality remain firmly in the memory. Additionally, our inspectors observed an impressive culinary diversity, where American cuisine mingles with Japanese, Chinese, Greek, and Thai. Whether it's exceptional Saudi dishes or global favorites, Saudi Arabia offers something for every international traveler eager to explore the captivating sights while savoring the diverse culinary offerings. Mayada Badr, the CEO of the Saudi Culinary Arts Commission, said: 'Our collaboration with the MICHELIN Guide marks an important milestone in celebrating the unique and diverse culinary scene of Saudi Arabia. It shines a light on the creativity and excellence of our chefs and restaurants, and invites the world to discover the distinct flavors and experiences the Kingdom has to offer.' For decades, the MICHELIN Guide has been the gold standard in recognizing and celebrating exceptional dining experiences. Its arrival in Saudi Arabia is a testament to the country's burgeoning culinary landscape, where tradition meets innovation, and local flavors are elevated to new heights. As the MICHELIN Guide begins its journey in the Kingdom, it invites both locals and visitors to embark on a culinary adventure like no other. The MICHELIN Guide MethodologyThe MICHELIN Guide was created in 1900 by the Michelin tire company to support the growth of automobile mobility. Since then, it has remained loyal to its original mission: to settle in mature gastronomic destinations, to guide international travelers and local foodies to the best restaurants, to highlight world culinary scenes, and to promote travel culture. The selection will be made according to the MICHELIN Guide's historic methodology, focusing only on the quality of the cuisine proposed by the restaurants, which the anonymous MICHELIN Guide Inspectors evaluate by following five universal criteria: The quality of the ingredients The mastery of cooking techniques The harmony of flavors The personality of the cuisine The consistency both over time and through the menu as a whole The MICHELIN Guide Restaurant SelectionThe MICHELIN Guide conveys its restaurant reviews through an extensive system of distinctions, which are awarded to special restaurants within its full selection. The most famous distinctions are its globally renowned MICHELIN Stars awarded to the restaurant offering the best culinary experiences. One MICHELIN Star is awarded to restaurants for 'high-quality cooking that is worth a stop,' two MICHELIN Stars for 'excellent cooking that is worth a detour,' and three MICHELIN Stars for 'exceptional cuisine that is worth a special journey.' Alongside the coveted Star ratings, the selection also includes the popular Bib Gourmand category, a distinction awarded to restaurants that provide good quality food at a moderate price. The MICHELIN Guide is committed to maintaining the highest global standards in its restaurant selection process. Our team of anonymous, experienced, and expert inspectors conduct continuous and rigorous evaluations of restaurants. These evaluations are carried out objectively and independently, ensuring that external factors do not influence the results. This dedication to impartiality and excellence guarantees that only outstanding dining establishments are recognized. For the first time, the MICHELIN Guide Saudi Arabia 2026 selection will be revealed in three stages. On the 15th of each month from October to December 2025, the inaugural selection for Saudi Arabia will be unveiled on our dedicated digital platform: To learn more about the MICHELIN Guide history, methodology or selection organization, please visit or follow updates on and MICHELIN Guide Worldwide app for iOS and Android Dedicated Website : @MichelinGuide The MICHELIN Guide celebrates its 125th anniversary! About Michelin Michelin is building a world-leading manufacturer of life-changing composites and experiences. Pioneering engineered materials for more than 130 years, Michelin is uniquely positioned to make decisive contributions to human progress and to a more sustainable world. Drawing on its deep know-how in polymer composites, Michelin is constantly innovating to manufacture high-quality tires and components for critical applications in demanding fields as varied as mobility, construction, aeronautics, low-carbon energies, and healthcare. The care placed in its products and deep customer knowledge inspire Michelin to offer the finest experiences. This spans from providing data- and AI-based connected solutions for professional fleets to recommending outstanding restaurants and hotels curated by the MICHELIN Guide. Headquartered in Clermont-Ferrand, France, Michelin is present in 175 countries and employs 129,800 people. ( Photos accompanying this announcement are available at CONTACT: Press Contact BPG Group michelinguide@
