MICHELIN GUIDE KL & PENANG 2026 HIGHLIGHTS MALAYSIA'S DIVERSE, VIBRANT CULINARY SCENE

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 12 (Bernama) -- The MICHELIN Guide Kuala Lumpur & Penang 2026 has unveiled its latest restaurant selection, featuring 151 establishments across both cities and showcasing Malaysia’s rich and diverse culinary landscape, from humble street stalls to refined dining.

Now in its fourth edition, the Guide recognises 58 Bib Gourmand eateries, 84 MICHELIN Selected venues and a total of nine MICHELIN-starred restaurants. This includes two newly promoted One MICHELIN Star establishments, while the nation’s sole Two MICHELIN Star restaurant retains its distinction for the third consecutive year.

MICHELIN Guide International Director Gwendal Poullennec said this year’s selection reflects the nation’s evolving gastronomic identity.

“The 151 establishments recognised this year reflect the remarkable energy and diversity of Malaysia’s food scene. Together, they form a mosaic of flavour and passion, telling the story of a modern Malaysia, which is confident, expressive and innovative,” he said.

The Guide underscores Kuala Lumpur, with 77 listings, and Penang, with 74, as culinary capitals that balance heritage and modernity. From charcoal-fired char koay teow stalls to ingredient-driven tasting menus, both cities reaffirm Malaysia’s standing as one of Asia’s most vibrant and dynamic food destinations.

Dewakan Restaurant continues to lead Malaysia’s fine-dining scene, retaining its Two MICHELIN Stars for the third consecutive year.

Helmed by Chef Darren Teoh, Dewakan also joins the MICHELIN Green Star community for its commitment to sustainability, further cementing its position as one of Malaysia’s most influential culinary voices.

Two newly promoted One MICHELIN Star restaurants, Akar and Terra Dining, bring the nation’s total number of starred establishments to nine, alongside Beta, Chim by Chef Noom, DC. by Darren Chin, Molina, Au Jardin and Auntie Gaik Lean’s Old School Eatery.

Akar, led by Chef Aidan Low, stood out for its inventive European-inspired cuisine infused with Japanese, French and Malaysian influences. Terra Dining, helmed by Chef Yu Cheng Chong, impressed inspectors with its refined, ingredient-focused approach to contemporary Malaysian cuisine.

This year’s Bib Gourmand list features 58 eateries recognised for delivering quality meals at affordable prices.

Five new eateries joined the Bib Gourmand list, Gulainya and Lama in Kuala Lumpur, as well as Awesome Char Koay Teow, Bee Hwa Cafe and Sifu in Penang.

The MICHELIN Guide Special Awards also honoured individuals shaping the future of Malaysian dining. Chef Chin Hua Wong of Shu received the Young Chef Award for his thoughtful interpretation of Chinese culinary heritage and exploration of diaspora cuisine.

Maverick Fung of Japanese fine-dining restaurant K earned the Service Award for his warmth, professionalism, and intuitive wine recommendations, exemplifying the artistry of front-of-house service.

The Opening of the Year Award went to Bidou, Chef Darren Teoh’s new French bistro, celebrated for its homage to classic French ‘nouvelle cuisine’.

-- BERNAMA