Michelin Guide 2026 Turkey Selection announced

The prestigious global restaurant rating system, the Michelin Guide, has announced its 2026 Turkey Selection at a ceremony attended by Minister of Culture and Tourism Mehmet Nuri Ersoy. With the 2026 selection, the Michelin Guide Turkey now includes 2 restaurants with two Michelin stars, 15 restaurants with one star, 39 Bib Gourmand restaurants and 13 green-starred restaurants.

The number of recommended venues in Türkiye reached 115 this year with the addition of 38 new establishments. In total, 171 restaurants have now been featured in the Turkey Guide. This year’s selection includes 54 new restaurants, including several from Cappadocia, which made it into the list for the first time. Cappadocia left a strong impression on inspectors with its tradition, hospitality, and terroir.

“This new selection highlights the strength of Türkiye’s gastronomic identity”

Speaking via video call at the ceremony held at the Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at the Bosphorus, Michelin Guide International Director Gwendal Poullennec said: “This new selection demonstrates the strength and maturity of Türkiye’s gastronomic identity. In Istanbul, Izmir, Muğla, and now Cappadocia, our inspectors identified chefs who stay true to tradition while boldly embracing creativity, prioritizing terroir, and committing to more responsible cooking methods. The diversity, talent, and sincerity we encountered across the country confirm the growing depth and confidence of its culinary scene.”

18 new restaurants from Cappadocia included

Poullennec noted that Michelin inspectors added 18 new restaurants from Cappadocia to the 2026 selection and continued: “What impressed inspectors the most was the spirit of the region. Beyond legendary Turkish hospitality and enchanting landscapes, Cappadocia offers a warm, relaxed atmosphere that invites visitors to savor life’s simple pleasures. This philosophy is reflected in its cuisine. Tradition, respect, and terroir hold deep meaning here. Many chefs remain loyal to recipes and techniques passed down through generations, offering flavors that have endured for centuries and continue to fascinate guests today.”

Two Michelin Stars awarded to Vino Locale in Izmir

Vino Locale, owned by chef Ozan Kumbasar and previously awarded one Michelin star in Izmir’s first selection in 2024, was elevated to two stars this year. Turk Fatih Tutak also retained its two-star rating, becoming the second restaurant in Türkiye to achieve this level. This year, one Michelin star was awarded to Revithia in Nevşehir, Araf Istanbul, and Mezra Yalıkavak in Muğla. With these additions, the total number of one-star restaurants in Türkiye has reached 15.

16 new Bib Gourmand restaurants added

The Bib Gourmand distinction, introduced by Michelin in 1997, honors restaurants offering excellent food at reasonable prices. These establishments span a wide range of cuisines and aim to welcome guests with high-quality flavors at accessible price points. With this year’s additions, Türkiye now has 39 Bib Gourmand restaurants. The 16 new entries include:
– From Izmir: Kemal’in Yeri Mülkiyeliler Birliği, Partal Kardeşler Balık Restoran
– From Muğla: Bağarası, Mandalya, Mezegi
– From Nevşehir: Babayan Evi, Aravan Evi, Happena, Old Greek House
– From Istanbul: Casius Antioch Kitchen, Yanyalı Fehmi Lokantası, Mahir Lokantası, Mutfakkoz, Parvus Kalamış, Ahmet Ustam Ocakbaşı
– From Niğde: Tabal Gastronomi Evi

Four restaurants earned the Green Star

The Green Star highlights restaurants dedicated to inspiring sustainability practices. In the 2026 selection, Turk Fatih Tutak (Istanbul), Orfoz (Muğla), Teruar Urla (Izmir), and Babayan Evi (Nevşehir) received this distinction. The Michelin Guide Turkey also presented three special awards honoring individuals who enrich the dining experience with their mastery, dedication, and vision:
– Michelin Young Chef Award 2026 (in partnership with Jumbo): Duru Akgül of Yakamengen III in Muğla
– Michelin Sommelier Award 2026: Ersin Topkara of Neolokal in Istanbul, holder of one star and one green star
– Michelin Service Award 2026 (in partnership with Olivana): Ezgi Serdaroğlu of Teruar Urla in Izmir