The 8th World Top Gourmet Awards 2026 brought together outstanding chefs, F&B brands, entrepreneurs and industry personalities for a prestigious celebration of culinary excellence and international gastronomy.
Held at the Andaman Grand Ballroom in Kuala Lumpur, the ceremony was organised by World Gourmet under the leadership of its President, Dr Peggy Chong. The event was honoured by the presence of YB Tuan Steven Sim, Minister of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives of Malaysia, as Guest of Honour, alongside Adjunct Professor Datuk Chef Wan and Master Chef Dr Martin Yan as Chefs of Honour. Distinguished guests included 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, who was represented by Puan Zuraini Abdul Ghani.
Recognising Outstanding Brands, Entrepreneurs and Culinary Talent
The star-studded evening welcomed internationally renowned celebrity chefs, prominent figures, influential personalities and industry leaders, making it a truly prestigious celebration of culinary excellence.
This year’s awards recognised an exceptional line-up of brands, entrepreneurs, chefs and personalities from across the region. Notable brand recipients included 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 honoured the founders behind renowned dining establishments such as Village Park, Madam Kwan’s and D’Tandoor.
Among the distinguished personalities recognised were Malaysian personality Malaysia Cousin Edison, Hong Kong artist Yeung Ming and Radio DJ Emely Poon. Celebrated culinary talents included 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, was also appointed World Gourmet Ambassador 2026 in recognition of his contribution to the culinary industry.
Since its establishment in 2017, the 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 took 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.
