Juniper
The 8th World Top Gourmet Awards 2026 brings together outstanding chefs, F&B brands, entrepreneurs and industry personalities to celebrate culinary excellence and recognise achievements across the international food and beverage industry.
Held at Andaman Grand Ballroom, Kuala Lumpur, the ceremony is organised by World Gourmet under the leadership of President Dr Peggy Chong. The event is honoured by the presence of YB Tuan Steven Sim, Minister of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives of Malaysia, as Guest of Honour, with Adjunct Professor Datuk Chef Wan and Master Chef Dr Martin Yan as Chefs of Honour. Distinguished guests include Master Chef Jeffrey Tan, OAM, World Gourmet Patron Lady Puan Sri Datin Sri Dr Susan Cheah, and Tourism Malaysia Deputy Director-General Mr Samuel Lee (represented by Puan Zuraini Abdul Ghani).
Celebrating Outstanding Brands, Entrepreneurs and Culinary Talents
The star-studded evening was graced by the presence of internationally renowned celebrity chefs, prominent figures, influential personalities and industry leaders, making it a prestigious celebration of culinary excellence.
This year’s awards recognise an exceptional line-up of brands, entrepreneurs, chefs and personalities from across the region. Notable brands include China’s Meng Zi Yuan and Tao Tao Ju, Taiwan’s Yang Ming Spring, Vietnam’s Quan An Ngon, and Malaysia’s Andaman Seafood Village, Cooper Mansion and Seri Bako by Kwan Kee. The awards also recognise the founders behind renowned dining establishments such as Village Park, Madam Kwan’s and D’Tandoor. Distinguished personalities include Malaysian personality Malaysia Cousin Edison, Hong Kong artist Yeung Ming and Radio DJ Emely Poon, while celebrated culinary talents include Chef Anis Nabilah of Malaysia, Professor Chef Brad Bennett of Australia, Chef Sam Leong of Singapore and Chef Ryan Von Smith from the United States of America. Professor Chef Zamzani Abdul Wahab, popularly known as Chef Zam, has also been appointed World Gourmet Ambassador 2026, in recognition of his contribution to the culinary industry.
Since its establishment in 2017, World Top Gourmet Awards has championed its mission of recognising deserving F&B operators, outstanding chefs and industry personalities. Dr Peggy Chong said, “Recognition goes beyond receiving a trophy. It builds confidence, inspires innovation and gives deserving businesses and talents greater opportunities to grow. Our goal is to elevate industry standards and connect culinary communities across borders.”
Gastronomy and Visit Malaysia Year 2026
The ceremony takes on added significance during Visit Malaysia Year 2026, as Malaysia showcases its multicultural heritage, distinctive cuisine and renowned hospitality to international visitors. Food is a powerful tourism attraction, creating memorable experiences while supporting local businesses, employment and entrepreneurship.
Amid rising operating costs and changing consumer expectations, World Gourmet also encourages F&B businesses to embrace innovation, maintain quality and build sustainable growth through collaboration and new market opportunities.
9th World Top Gourmet Awards to Be Held in Guangzhou
Dr Peggy Chong announced that the 9th World Top Gourmet Awards will be held in January 2027 at Shangri-La Guangzhou, China. The upcoming ceremony will further strengthen Malaysia–China friendship, promote international culinary exchange and create new opportunities for F&B businesses, chefs and tourism stakeholders.
Dr Peggy Chong expressed her appreciation to the Guest of Honour, Chefs of Honour, award recipients, sponsors, strategic partners, media representatives and organising committee for their support. She congratulated all recipients and reaffirmed World Gourmet’s commitment to celebrating excellence, promoting culinary heritage and connecting food cultures worldwide.
