Türkiye’s 2026 MICHELIN Guide is out, and the country’s dining scene just had a major glow-up. Think new Stars, new regions, and a whole lot of chefs smiling behind kitchen doors. This year’s guide is all about a big year for stars, newcomers, and Cappadocia’s first shine
MICHELIN Guide Türkiye 2026 Unveiled
This year, the Guide welcomed 54 new restaurants, and the biggest headline is that Cappadocia finally joins the party. The region steps in with 18 new establishments, proving that the destination offers more than just dreamy sunsets. Cappadocia prove that their kitchens have chefs who stick to age-old recipes, slow cooking, and deep-rooted flavours that comfort you through amazing flavours as mentioned on their official website.
Cappadocia Steps Into the Spotlight
There’s a calm confidence in Cappadocia’s food scene. You can taste it in the simple, honest plates. Imagine local grains, slow-cooked lamb, and childhood flavours minus the drama and theatrics.
Vino Locale Makes Izmir Proud
The biggest celebration? Vino Locale in Izmir just climbed to Two MICHELIN Stars. Chef Ozan Kumbasar blends Turkish terroir with touches of Japan and Thailand, creating dishes that still feel proudly local. It’s the kind of place where the ingredients speak up, and you don’t mind listening one bit. With this win, Vino Locale becomes the first to earn Two Stars in Izmir and only the second in all of Türkiye.
Three New One-Star Restaurants
Then comes the trio joining the One-Star club:
- Revithia (Cappadocia) – Reviving nearly forgotten recipes inside a UNESCO site.
- Araf (Istanbul) – A tiny open-fire counter with a bold attitude.
- Mezra Yalıkavak (Muğla) – A farm-rooted restaurant where old techniques feel fresh again.
These additions push the country’s One-Star count to 15, showing just how fast Turkish gastronomy is climbing the global charts.
Bib Gourmands And Green Stars Bring Balance
If you love great food without burning a hole in your wallet, the 16 new Bib Gourmands will make you happy and satiated. Cappadocia alone gets five, including the charming Babayan Evi, which also picks up a Green Star for its sustainable heart. Speaking of Green Stars, four restaurants earn that honour this year for doing good for the land while feeding people well.
Also Read: As Michelin Guide Saudi Arabia Adds More Names, These 2 Eateries Make It To The Bib Gourmand
Special Awards Celebrate Heart And Skill
From young talent Duru Akgül in Muğla to sommelier extraordinaire Ersin Topkara in Istanbul and hospitality queen Ezgi Serdaroğlu in Izmir, the Special Awards spotlight the people who make dining memorable for all the right reasons.
With 38 new MICHELIN-selected restaurants, Türkiye now boasts a total of 115 standout establishments.
Cover Image Courtesy: Michelin Guide/Website
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