Khufu’s in Giza has been named The Best Restaurant in the Middle East & North Africa 2026, sponsored by S.Pellegrino & Acqua Panna, while also taking the title of The Best Restaurant in Egypt. The announcement was made at the Middle East & North Africa’s 50 Best Restaurants awards, held at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental in Abu Dhabi.

This year’s list features restaurants from 14 cities across the region, including Dubai, Marrakech, Casablanca, Doha, Amman and Giza, with 16 new entries joining the ranking. The ceremony was hosted in partnership with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi.

Set beneath the Pyramids of Giza, Khufu’s is known for its modern interpretation of Egyptian cuisine, drawing on the flavours and traditions of the Nile Valley. Its No.1 ranking reflects a focus on strong ingredient sourcing, thoughtful technique and a clear culinary identity that feels both contemporary and rooted in place.

Other highlights from the 2026 list include Reif Kushiyaki Cairo, which claimed the Highest Climber Award after rising 27 places to No.20, and Beihouse in Beirut, which debuted at No.5 to win the Highest New Entry Award. Sara Aqel of Dara Dining by Sara Aqel was named MENA’s Best Female Chef, while Omar and Wassim Orfali of Orfali Bros took home MENA’s Best Pastry Chef Award.

Additional honours went to Salam Dakkak for the Sevenrooms Icon Award, Himanshu Saini of Trèsind Studio for the Estrella Damm 0.0% Chefs’ Choice Award, and Farmers in Morocco, which received the Sustainable Restaurant Award, sponsored by illy.