Two Restaurants Newly Awarded One MICHELIN Star in Macau
In an exciting revelation for food enthusiasts, the MICHELIN Guide Hong Kong & Macau 2026 showcased a remarkable list of culinary excellence, unveiling two new restaurants in Macau that have earned the prestigious One MICHELIN Star. This accolade was announced during the ceremony for the 18th edition of the guide, held at the Grand Lisboa Place (GLP) in Cotai.
The Prestigious MICHELIN Guide
The MICHELIN Guide has been a reputable authority in the culinary world since its inception in 1900 and stands as a benchmark for restaurants across the globe. Each year, restaurants are meticulously evaluated based on their quality, flavor, mastery of techniques, and the overall dining experience they provide. Receiving a MICHELIN Star is a significant accomplishment, reflecting a restaurant’s commitment to excellence.
Celebrating New Stars: Don Alfonso 1890 and Palace Garden
This year’s ceremony saw the elevation of Don Alfonso 1890 and Palace Garden, both of which transitioned from the MICHELIN Selected category to being recognized with a One MICHELIN Star. This move not only highlights their culinary prowess but also their ability to offer an exceptional dining experience that resonates with the criteria set by the MICHELIN inspectors.
Don Alfonso 1890 is celebrated for its refined Italian cuisine, utilizing high-quality ingredients to craft dishes that are both innovative and traditional. On the other hand, Palace Garden excels in the art of Cantonese cuisine, offering a diverse menu that showcases the rich flavors and textures synonymous with this culinary style. The recognition of these two restaurants adds to Macau’s reputation as a burgeoning gastronomic destination.
MICHELIN Stars in Macau: A Glimpse at the Numbers
The MICHELIN Guide Hong Kong & Macau 2026 lists a total of 278 establishments, with 59 of those situated in Macau, which accounts for 21 percent of the total. The guide proudly showcases the culinary landscape of the region, where six restaurants maintain their Two MICHELIN Star ratings, and an impressive two retain the coveted Three MICHELIN Star status. Notably, Jade Dragon at City of Dreams (COD) and Robuchon au Dôme at Grand Lisboa are among those elite few.
In total, 21 MICHELIN Starred restaurants grace Macau, categorized as follows: two establishments with Three MICHELIN Stars, six restaurants retaining Two MICHELIN Stars, and 13 holding the One MICHELIN Star designation, including the newly recognized dining spots.
Other Honors and Recognitions
The evening also honored additional establishments for their outstanding contributions to the culinary scene. The Macao University of Tourism (UTM) retained its Green Star, highlighting its commitment to sustainability in dining. Moreover, Jenny Ye from The Huiyang Garden was honored with the “Service Award,” acknowledging her exceptional dedication to customer service and the dining experience.
The award ceremony didn’t just highlight the stars; it also awarded the Bib Gourmand distinction to 13 restaurants, including a new entry and one that received a promotion. Bib Gourmand awards are given to eateries that offer exceptional food at reasonable prices, according to the MICHELIN Guide’s standards.
A Milestone Year for the MICHELIN Star
This year marks a significant milestone as it commemorates the centenary since the first MICHELIN Star was awarded in 1926. Tananya Nimasdavut, the vice president of Michelin Lifestyle for East Asia, Oceania, and the Middle East, emphasized this historical achievement during her speech at the ceremony. She underscored the enduring culinary prowess of Macau and Hong Kong, which continues to inspire and set benchmarks globally.
The Significance of the Event
Daisy Ho Chiu-fung, Managing Director of SJM, highlighted that this is the fifth consecutive year SJM has hosted the MICHELIN Guide Ceremony. She emphasized the importance of the guide in the dining industry, noting it is not merely a red plaque on a wall—it embodies credibility and consistency in the culinary profession. Through these awards, the MICHELIN Guide reflects an unwavering commitment to culinary excellence, enhancing Macau’s status in the global food landscape.
Moreover, Ho acknowledged the industry’s anticipation for this event each year, emphasizing that the recognition bestowed by the MICHELIN Guide holds an esteemed place within the culinary community.
A Cultural Highlight
The MICHELIN Guide Ceremony represents more than just awards; it is a celebration of culture, tradition, and the relentless pursuit of culinary innovation in Macau. The newly awarded stars not only elevate the status of the recipients but also inspire other restaurateurs in their journey towards excellence.
For additional insights and the latest updates on culinary accolades, keep an eye on the MICHELIN Guide’s releases and celebrate the remarkable talent within the world of gastronomy.