Cancún, Quintana Roo — The Mexican Caribbean is solidifying its place in the global culinary elite. Quintana Roo will once again be part of the exclusive Michelin Guide Mexico 2026 selection, reaffirming its position as a gastronomic pillar of the country, according to Perla Flores Navarro, president of the National Chamber of the Restaurant and Seasoned Food Industry (Canirac) in Cancún.
The state is one of the pioneers since the prestigious award arrived in Mexico. In this third consecutive edition, Quintana Roo will share the spotlight with Mexico City, Oaxaca, Baja California, Baja California Sur, and Nuevo León, as well as new additions Yucatán, Puebla, and Jalisco.
Gala Ceremony in Guadalajara
The official awards ceremony will take place Wednesday, May 20, in Guadalajara, Jalisco. During the event, the Michelin Guide will reveal which establishments earn coveted stars, which enter the Bib Gourmand category (excellent value for money), or receive special recommendations.
Quintana Roo’s return follows a historic performance in previous editions, when the state placed a total of 20 restaurants across various categories of the French guide.
Among the local culinary standouts seeking to retain or earn their place in the Michelin Guide Mexico 2026 are iconic proposals spread across Cancún, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, and Isla Mujeres, including:
- María Dolores y Cocina de Autor Riviera Maya
- Bu’ul and Hartwood
- Arca and the emblematic Kiosco Verde
Economic Impact and Luxury Tourism
Presence in the guide is not only a source of pride for chefs but also a key economic strategy. Culinary tourism has become the perfect complement to the state’s traditional sun-and-beach offerings.
“This is a watershed for the local economy because it generates high-level jobs, drives new consumption patterns, and forces the sector to seek excellence. We recognize the efforts of Governor Mara Lezama and the State Tourism Secretariat (Sedetur), with whom Canirac works hand in hand,” Flores Navarro said.
The restaurant leader also noted the strict confidentiality of the awards, clarifying that the selection is completely independent of institutional or government agreements. Inspectors operate under absolute anonymity, evaluating the quality of dishes and ingredients in both luxury establishments and traditional venues, always demanding a standard of excellence.
