The culinary world has a new capital. For the first time in history, an Egyptian restaurant has claimed the top spot as Khufu’s in Giza is named the winner of Middle East & North Africa’s 50 Best Restaurants 2026. This definitive list highlights a massive shift in the region’s gastronomic power, moving the center of gravity from the Gulf directly to the Great Pyramids.
The Top 10: MENA’s 50 Best Restaurants 2026
- Khufu’s (Giza, Egypt) – The Winner. Located within the pyramid complex, it offers contemporary Egyptian cuisine that bridges millennia. Selected for its unparalleled location and Chef Mostafa Seif’s refined heritage cooking.
- Kinoya (Dubai, UAE) – Selected for its masterful Japanese ramen and izakaya soul, becoming the highest-ranked restaurant in the UAE this year.
- Trèsind Studio (Dubai, UAE) – A temple of modern Indian gastronomy. Chosen for Chef Himanshu Saini’s technical brilliance and storytelling.
- Orfali Bros Bistro (Dubai, UAE) – The former champion. Selected for its creative “borderless” Mediterranean-Syrian fusion that continues to inspire the region.
- Beihouse (Beirut, Lebanon) – Highest New Entry. Chosen for its incredible debut and sophisticated take on Levantine flavors against all odds.
- Kuuru (Jeddah, Saudi Arabia) – The best in Saudi Arabia. Selected for its world-class Nikkei (Japanese-Peruvian) fusion and vibrant atmosphere.
- Sufret Maryam (Dubai, UAE) – A new entry by Chef Salam Dakkak. Chosen for its soulful Palestinian heritage dishes served with elite precision.
- Jun’s (Dubai, UAE) – Selected for its unique North American-Asian-Middle Eastern fusion that represents the diversity of modern Dubai.
- Manāo (Dubai, UAE) – A high-end Thai debut. Selected for its authentic yet progressive approach to Southeast Asian flavors.
- Moonrise (Dubai, UAE) – Recognized for its exclusive “Middle East Omakase” format, blending local ingredients with Japanese techniques.
(The official list continues to No. 50)
Editor’s Note:
The 2026 results confirm that the “Center of the World” has officially moved to Giza. For those arriving by global Airlines or docking on a luxury Cruise, the crowning of Khufu’s is a clear signal: the Middle East and North Africa are no longer just transit points—they are the main event. In 2026, the most coveted boarding pass is the one that leads to a table in the shadow of the Pyramids.
Reference: Original reporting by MENA
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