The 2026 edition of the MICHELIN Guide Kuala Lumpur & Penang has now been unveiled, marking the fourth edition of Malaysia’s celebrated heritage, flavors, and culinary heart through these two cities.

From time-honored hawker stalls to ingenious fine dining tables, this year’s selection reflects Malaysia’s culinary scene in bloom, where tradition and innovation continue to thrive together. It also paints a perfect picture of a country that pays tribute to its roots while still embracing the world.

The MICHELIN Guide Kuala Lumpur & Penang 2026 features 151 establishments across its distinctions, a significant jump from the 2025 selection of 143 restaurants.

Dewakan earns the highest distinction once again as the only Two MICHELIN-Starred restaurant in the country. Eight restaurants (six in Kuala Lumpur, two in Penang) earn the One MICHELIN Star: Akar, Beta, Chim by Chef Noom, DC. by Darren Chin, Molina, Terra Dining, Au Jardin, and Auntie Gaik Lean’s Old School Eatery.

Aside from the MICHELIN Stars, several special awards were also given out during the ceremony. This year, 58 restaurants were awarded the Bib Gourmand distinction, including the newly added Gulainya, Lama, Awesome Char Koay Teow, Bee Hwa Café, and Sifu, celebrating establishments that serve exceptional food at moderate prices.

As for the MICHELIN Selected Restaurants, 84 restaurants have impressed Inspectors with their quality, character, and culinary soul. 11 new additions include Bidou, Jie, K, Kazu, Kuki, Shu, Blacklinen, Du-An (Lebuh Pantai), Mémoire, Peninsula House, and Sood by Chef Ton.

The MICHELIN Guide Special Awards were awarded to professionals whose vision and craftsmanship continue to refine Malaysia’s culinary landscape. Renowned for his thoughtful exploration of heritage and identity through food, Chin Hua Wong of Shu earned the Young Chef Award. Presented by UOB Malaysia, Bidou, the newest venture of Chef Darren Teoh of Two-Star Dewakan, was awarded Opening of the Year, and Maverick Fung of K earned the Service Award.

“The 151 establishments recognized this year reflect the remarkable energy and diversity of Malaysia’s food scene,” said Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the MICHELIN Guide. “Together, they form a mosaic of flavor and passion, telling the culinary story of a modern Malaysia — one that is confident, expressive, and innovative.”

Malaysia is one of five MICHELIN-rated destinations in Southeast Asia, joined by Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, and, most recently, the Philippines. MICHELIN inspectors base their ratings on five globally applied criteria: ingredient quality, mastery of cooking technique, harmony of flavors, the chef’s personality in his cuisine, and consistency between visits.

For the full list of MICHELIN-starred, Bib Gourmand, and Selected restaurants, visit the MICHELIN Guide website, as well as their Facebook and Instagram pages. Download the MICHELIN Guide free app for iOS and Android.