Penang solidifies its food paradise status with 74 Michelin Guide listings, including two starred restaurants and 33 Bib Gourmand awards.
GEORGE TOWN: Penang’s reputation as a food paradise received official endorsement with 74 listings in the Michelin Guide 2026.
The state captured nearly half of all 151 eateries recognised nationwide this year.
State Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai said this achievement showcases the depth and richness of Penang’s diverse culinary culture.
“Among these, two earned a Michelin Star, 39 were recognised as Michelin Selected and 33 received the Bib Gourmand distinction,” he said in a statement.
Kuala Lumpur and Penang each contributed eight new entrants to this year’s list.
Penang’s new additions include three Bib Gourmand and five Michelin Selected restaurants.
Wong noted these achievements continue to enrich Malaysia’s culinary landscape.
He said 84 restaurants received Michelin Selected recognition nationwide, including 11 newcomers.
Penang contributed five new entries this year, bringing its total to 39 Michelin Selected restaurants.
Kuala Lumpur added six new entries, reaching 45 Michelin Selected restaurants in total.
Among Penang’s five new Michelin Selected restaurants are Blacklinen, Du-An (Lebuh Pantai), Mémoire, Peninsula House and Sood by Chef Ton.
Each showcases creative interpretations of local and international cuisines.
All Michelin Star holders from the 2025 edition maintained their status this year.
Two restaurants were upgraded from Michelin Selected to one-star recognition in the 2026 edition.
“For Penang, Au Jardin and Auntie Gaik Lean’s Old School Eatery have retained their Michelin Stars,” Wong said.
He emphasised this reaffirms their consistent quality and culinary excellence.
Wong noted Penang’s continued performance reflects successful integration of rich culinary culture with international recognition. – Bernama
