Meet the 2026 Berliner Meisterköche Award Winners
Berlin, November 7, 2026 – Looking for your next unforgettable dining experience in Berlin? You can trust the judgment of the expert jury behind this year’s Berliner Meisterköche awards. Led by co-chairs Dr. Stefan Elfenbein, correspondent for Der Feinschmecker and Business Traveller, and Tina Hüttl, restaurant critic for the Berliner Zeitung and other publications, the jury selected this year’s winners in seven categories: “Berlin Master Chef,” “Rising Star of the Year,” “Berlin Host,” “Berlin Scene Restaurant,” “Berlin Neighborhood Champion,” “Berlin Bar Culture” and “Culinary Innovator.” The awards were presented at a gala on the evening of November 7, 2026, against the impressive backdrop of historic Tempelhof Airport. With its distinctive architecture and rich history, the former airport provided a fitting setting for an event that has celebrated the creativity, innovation and quality of Berlin’s fine dining scene every year since 1997.
Dr. Stefan Franzke, CEO of Berlin Partner, emphasized the significance of the anniversary: “Thirty years of Berliner Meisterköche represent three decades of culinary excellence, creativity and entrepreneurial courage. Berlin’s restaurateurs help shape the city’s image far beyond its borders, continually inspire people to try something new and attract both Berliners and visitors alike. Over the past few decades, the capital has established itself as a thriving culinary destination, thanks in no small part to the Berliner Meisterköche. These awards not only recognize outstanding achievements but also highlight the innovative strength and diversity of an industry that makes an important contribution to Berlin’s economy.”
The expert jury offered detailed and enthusiastic explanations for its selections. Here are this year's winners:
The award for Berlin Master Chef 2026 went to Lode van Zuylen of REMI. The jury praised his many talents as a chef, restaurateur and host, as well as his ability to bring people together around the table. According to the jury, van Zuylen strikes the perfect balance between exceptional cuisine and an easygoing atmosphere, with no compromises required. Sounds promising!
This year’s Rising Star is Tanandon Santanaviboon. The chef behind Rram on Torstraße has an extraordinary personal story and equally ambitious culinary standards. His philosophy? “I want people to cry over my food.” Tears of joy, of course.
The jury named Isabell Wendel of BricoleBerlin Host 2026.Despite its Michelin star, Bricole is known as a welcoming neighborhood restaurant – thanks in no small part, according to the jury, to Wendel’s exceptional hospitality, professionalism, warmth and empathy.
Saint Farah takes home the title of Berlin Scene Restaurant 2026. Named after the grandmother of owners Nadav Kundel and Gil Azrielan, the restaurant offers anything but traditional grandma-style cooking. Instead, chef Kundel brings his own distinctive style to the table, drawing on international influences and his experience at Night Kitchen and Papillon. Well worth a visit!
No Berliner Meisterköche awards would be complete without a Berlin Kiezmeister award. This year, the honor goes to Tresen-Treff in Wilmersdorf. Once a somewhat rundown, traditional Berlin corner pub, Tresen-Treff has reinvented itself as a culinary destination. “What's not to love?” says the jury, recognizing the thoughtful modernization of a much-loved neighborhood institution.
A Chancellor Cocktail, original Singapore Sling glasses from the Raffles Hotel and plenty of stories to go with them – these are just some of the things awaiting guests at Rum Trader, winner of the Berlin Bar Culture 2026 award. In just 32 square meters, Charlotte Fedtke and Sahand Zamani have created a truly distinctive atmosphere. The jury describes the bar as a “time capsule” whose appeal is all the more timeless because of it.
According to the jury, Anja and Carsten Schmidt have created an entire culinary landscape in Berlin, earning them the title of Culinary Innovators 2026. Their wine shops helped bring German wine into the mainstream, while their establishments have become training grounds for talented chefs, sommeliers and hospitality professionals. Anyone eager to experience their contribution to Berlin’s culinary scene firsthand can visit Rutz, Zollhaus or Schmidt Z&KO.
Berlin certainly has no shortage of outstanding restaurants and innovative culinary concepts. With so much to choose from, the Berliner Meisterköche awards offer a valuable guide to the city’s diverse dining scene. Follow their lead, and you’re sure to find something to suit your taste.