The World’s 50 Best Restaurants 2026 will take place in Lima on November 4. A first for South America. Discover the program, the lead-up events, and how to experience Peruvian gastronomy.
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The Great Gastronomic Celebration Arrives in South America for the First Time
For the first time in its 24-year history, The World’s 50 Best Restaurants ceremony will be held in Peru. On November 4, 2026, Lima will welcome the world’s best chefs and restaurants to unveil the most anticipated 1-50 ranking in global gastronomy.
For the Peruvian capital, this announcement is a historic recognition. First, for its economic impact. Second, for the prestige Peru is increasingly earning in this field. Third, because hosting the event will give not only participants but also visitors the opportunity to explore Peruvian food.
Lima is already home to the last two restaurants at the top of the ranking, and now it will host the celebration that brings them together. Here is what to expect, how to experience the week of events, and why this is the ideal moment to discover Lima’s cuisine.
A Milestone for Peruvian Gastronomy
The announcement has a key precedent: the ceremony was originally scheduled for Abu Dhabi, but the event was moved to Lima after a change of venue. As a result, the Peruvian capital becomes the first city in South America to host the awards.
Lima has every reason to be in the spotlight. Maido was named The World’s Best Restaurant 2025 in Turin, and before that, Central had reached first place in 2023. With Maido joining the Best of the Best group, it will become the second Lima restaurant to hold the No. 1 spot in the list’s history, alongside Central.
Note: Maido becomes ineligible for future annual rankings and joins the Best of the Best group, which is reserved for former No. 1 restaurants.
Program: A Week of Gastronomy in Lima
The celebration is not limited to a single evening. Lima will host a week of activities organized together with PromPerú:
- The 50 Best Talks (November 3): Talks with chefs and industry leaders.
- Signature Sessions: Special sessions with international chefs.
- Chefs’ Feast: A dinner featuring local cuisine.
- Collaborative dinners: Gastronomic gatherings between chefs from around the world.
- Awards ceremony (November 4): Reveal of the 1-50 ranking and the number one restaurant.
In addition, the Champions of Change Award, the Art of Hospitality Award, the One To Watch Award, and the extended 51-100 list will be announced before the ceremony.
This milestone reflects the sustained effort of the Peruvian government, the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism (MINCETUR), and PROMPERÚ to position Peru as a leading destination for gastronomic tourism worldwide.
Statements from the Minister of Foreign Trade and Tourism of Peru
Event Details and Visitor Guide
- Dates: November 2 to 4, 2026.
- Main ceremony: On November 4, 2026, the official ranking of the world’s best restaurants will be revealed.
- Attendees: More than 1,200 leaders of the global gastronomy scene are expected, including chefs from over 34 countries, journalists, critics, and content creators.
- Side activities: The program includes the exclusive lunch and dinner series The 50 Signature Sessions, along with talks such as #50BestTalks and the Chefs’ Feast.
- Organization: The event is driven by the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism (MINCETUR) through PROMPERÚ.
You can follow official details and updates on the PROMPERÚ portal.
Official source: theworlds50best.com
What Does It Mean for Visitors?
Lima is emerging as one of the world’s great gastronomic destinations. For those planning to travel in November, here are some ideas:
- Book in advance: The most popular restaurants tend to fill up quickly during international events.
- Explore beyond fine dining: Markets such as Surquillo, traditional cevicherías, and the capital’s picanterías complete the experience.
- Combine gastronomy with culture: Downtown Lima (Centro Histórico), Barranco, and Miraflores offer a rich mix of culture and cuisine.
- Check the official program: Some events during the week may require registration or tickets, so consult the official channels before planning.
A Growing Gastronomic Ecosystem
Beyond the awards, the event highlights the work of cooks, producers, and communities that make Peru’s culinary scene possible. From coastal fishermen to Andean and Amazonian farmers, Peruvian gastronomy is a network of stories that now draws the attention of the world.
This is an opportunity for the city to showcase its diversity of ingredients, techniques, and traditions, and for visitors to discover much more than the country’s most famous dishes.
Final Thoughts
The arrival of The World’s 50 Best Restaurants 2026 in Lima is a milestone for Peru and for South America. With a week of activities and a ceremony on November 4, the capital becomes the epicenter of world gastronomy.
If you want to be in Lima for this moment, plan your trip, book early, and get ready to discover a city that offers far more than its most award-winning restaurants.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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When will The World’s 50 Best Restaurants 2026 take place in Lima?
The awards ceremony will be held on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, preceded by a week of events.
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Is this the first time this event has been held in Peru?
Yes. It is the first time in its 24-year history that the ceremony has been held in Peru and in South America.
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Why was the event moved to Lima?
The ceremony was originally scheduled for Abu Dhabi, but the venue was changed to Lima.
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Which restaurant was number one in 2025?
Maido, from Lima, was named The World’s Best Restaurant 2025 in Turin.
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Can I attend the ceremony?
Access conditions depend on the event organizers. Check the official The World’s 50 Best channels to learn how to get tickets or take part in open activities.
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Where can I eat in Lima during those dates?
You can explore restaurants in Miraflores, Barranco, San Isidro, and the Centro Histórico, as well as markets and traditional cevicherías.
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