The inaugural Gault&Millau Saudi Arabia Guide 2026 has officially been unveiled, celebrating the chefs, restaurateurs and hospitality professionals shaping the Kingdom’s rapidly evolving culinary landscape. Among the award winners and restaurant selections, Lebanese talent featured prominently, highlighting the enduring influence of Lebanon’s hospitality industry across the Gulf. From award-winning chefs to beloved restaurant concepts, Lebanese professionals continue to play a key role in Saudi Arabia’s dining scene. Here, we spotlight the Lebanese names recognized in the guide’s first edition.

Lebanese Award Winners

Far left: Elia Kaady. Far right: Hachem Taleb and Sara Katanani

Elia Kaady:  Emerging Chef of the Year

Lebanese chef Elia Kaady was recognized as Emerging Chef of the Year. A graduate of culinary studies in Lebanon, Kaady began his career alongside renowned chefs Maroun Chedid and Youssef Akiki before continuing his journey in Saudi Arabia, where he now leads the kitchen at Maiz in Riyadh.

Hachem Taleb: Pastry Chef of the Year 2026

Lebanese pastry chef Hachem Taleb was awarded Pastry Chef of the Year for his work at Auria in Riyadh. Having built his career across leading hospitality establishments in Lebanon before moving to Saudi Arabia, Taleb was recognized for his precision, creativity and commitment to craftsmanship.

Sara Katanani: General Manager of the Year 2026

Hospitality professional Sara Katanani received the General Manager of the Year award for her leadership at Yawmiyat Bistronomy by Dalal and George and Yawmiyat by Dalal in Riyadh. Her guest-focused approach and dedication to hospitality have helped establish both venues among the capital’s popular dining destinations.

25 Lebanese Restaurants Featured in the Yellow Guide

Aala Bali, Abha

Located in Abu Khayal Park in Abha, Aala Bali showcases Lebanese cuisine in a peaceful setting surrounded by greenery. Expect classic mezze, grilled specialties and warm hospitality inspired by the traditions of the Lebanese table.

Al Falamanki, Riyadh

Inspired by the charm of old Beirut, Al Falamanki recreates the atmosphere of a traditional Lebanese courtyard café. Known for its nostalgic setting and authentic flavors, the concept has become a popular destination for Lebanese comfort food.

Amar, Riyadh

Amar offers a contemporary take on Levantine cuisine, blending regional flavors with a stylish dining experience. The restaurant has earned a loyal following for its refined atmosphere and modern approach to Middle Eastern hospitality.

Anis, Riyadh

Named after the aromatic seed associated with Lebanon’s beloved arak, Anis draws inspiration from the country’s rich culinary heritage. The menu highlights Lebanese and Levantine flavors presented in a contemporary setting.

Betmoon, Riyadh

Betmoon combines Lebanese hospitality with contemporary design, creating a welcoming destination for gathering over food. Guests can enjoy a menu rooted in regional flavors and traditions.

Burj Al Hamam, Jeddah

One of the region’s most established Lebanese restaurant brands, Burj Al Hamam continues to represent the traditions of Lebanese hospitality in Jeddah. The guide praises its extensive menu of mezze, seafood and charcoal-grilled specialties, as well as its warm atmosphere.

Em Sherif Café, Riyadh

Led by chef Yasmina Hayek, Em Sherif Café brings one of Lebanon’s most celebrated dining concepts to Riyadh. Known for its generous hospitality and menu of Lebanese classics, the restaurant has become a destination for those seeking an authentic Lebanese dining experience.

Enab Beirut, Dammam – Al Khobar

Enab Beirut pays tribute to the flavors and convivial spirit of Lebanon’s capital. From classic mezze to grilled specialties, the restaurant embraces the social nature of Lebanese dining.

Fayrouz, Dammam – Al Khobar

Inspired by one of Lebanon’s most beloved cultural icons, Fayrouz celebrates Lebanese identity through food and hospitality. The restaurant offers a menu rooted in tradition while embracing a contemporary dining experience.

Karam Beirut, Riyadh & Jeddah

A household name in Lebanese dining, Karam Beirut was recognized for its generous portions, quality ingredients and commitment to traditional Lebanese flavors. The guide particularly notes its mezze selection, fresh Arabic bread and welcoming atmosphere.

Karamna, Jeddah and Abha

Meaning “our generosity,” Karamna reflects one of the most important values of Lebanese culture. The restaurant focuses on traditional recipes designed for sharing around the table.

Kitchen on 3, Riyadh

Kitchen on 3 offers a contemporary dining experience shaped by Lebanese hospitality and international influences. Its versatile menu and relaxed atmosphere make it suitable for a variety of occasions.

Leila Min Lebnen, Riyadh

Inspired by the flavors of a Lebanese home kitchen, Leila Min Lebnen celebrates regional recipes and family traditions. The concept has become one of the Gulf’s most recognizable ambassadors of everyday Lebanese cuisine.

Mayrig, Riyadh

Founded by Aline Kamakian, Mayrig celebrates the rich culinary heritage of the Armenian-Lebanese community through recipes passed down through generations. The restaurant is known for its warm hospitality and distinctive menu featuring traditional Armenian and Lebanese flavors, offering diners a unique glimpse into one of Lebanon’s most cherished culinary traditions.

MLLE, Riyadh

MLLE combines contemporary design with a modern approach to dining and hospitality. The concept reflects the evolving face of Lebanese entrepreneurship in the region’s restaurant scene.

Naya, Riyadh

Naya showcases the richness of Lebanese cuisine through a menu balancing traditional flavors with contemporary presentation. The restaurant is known for its elegant atmosphere and refined hospitality.

Niyyali, Jeddah

Located at Shangri-La Jeddah, Niyyali offers a refined Lebanese dining experience overlooking the Red Sea. The guide highlights its traditional hot and cold mezze, grilled specialties and slow-cooked meats served in an elegant setting.

Osturi, AlUla

Osturi reimagines Lebanese comfort food in a contemporary environment. Familiar flavors meet modern presentation, creating a dining experience that appeals to both traditionalists and newer audiences.

Ovun Bistro, Riyadh

Ovun Bistro offers a contemporary culinary concept that reflects the creativity and innovation increasingly associated with Lebanese hospitality entrepreneurs in the Gulf.

Seray, Riyadh

Drawing inspiration from the historic Levant, Seray presents a menu centered on regional flavors and traditional recipes. Its welcoming atmosphere captures the spirit of Middle Eastern hospitality.

Shababik, Riyadh & Jeddah

Shababik is known for presenting Lebanese cuisine in an elegant setting while remaining faithful to traditional flavors. The restaurant has built a reputation around its mezze selection and grilled specialties.

Somewhere, Riyadh and AlUla

Founded by Lebanese entrepreneur Amal AlMarri, Somewhere has become one of the region’s most recognizable homegrown restaurant concepts. The menu draws inspiration from travels around the world while remaining rooted in Middle Eastern flavors.

Villa Fayrouz, Riyadh, Jeddah, AlUla & Dammam – Al Khobar

Villa Fayrouz celebrates the culture, music and cuisine of Lebanon in a warm and inviting setting. The concept pays homage to Lebanese traditions through both its menu and atmosphere.

Yawmiyat Bistronomy by Dalal and George, Riyadh

Yawmiyat Bistronomy by Dalal and George combines Lebanese hospitality with contemporary bistro culture. The restaurant focuses on seasonal ingredients, thoughtful cooking and a welcoming atmosphere.

Yawmiyat by Dalal, Riyadh

Yawmiyat By Dalal, the sister concept to Yawmiyat Bistronomy offers a more casual interpretation of the same hospitality-driven philosophy. Its inclusion in the guide further reflects the success of Lebanese-led concepts in Saudi Arabia.

If you enjoyed reading this, check out our article on Beirut’s restaurants awarded in MENA’s 50 Best.