You have Successfully logged In !
Already have an account? Login
By clicking Register you agree to the Terms & Conditions and acknowledge our Privacy Policy.
Don't have an account?Register
Enter your E-mail address below, We will send the verification code
Please enter the code send to
Didn't receive the email?Click to resend
Your password has been successfully reset!.
Please login again to access your account.
An OTP has been sent to
Enter the 4-digit code
By Manu Vardhan Kannan
Published on July 2, 2026
The MICHELIN Guide has officially arrived in Aotearoa New Zealand, marking its first-ever expansion into the Oceania region. The inaugural MICHELIN Guide New Zealand 2026 features 110 restaurants across Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, and Queenstown, recognising the country's growing reputation for exceptional dining, local ingredients, and distinctive culinary experiences.
Following months of anonymous inspections, the Guide has awarded Essence in Queenstown Two MICHELIN Stars, making it the country's highest-recognised restaurant in the inaugural edition. Alongside this, 14 restaurants have received One MICHELIN Star, 35 restaurants have earned the Bib Gourmand for offering high-quality food at great value, and 60 establishments have been included in the MICHELIN Guide Selected list.
Led by Executive Chef Paul Froggatt, Essence offers refined tasting menus that celebrate seasonal New Zealand produce while overlooking the scenic Lake Whakatipu.
Commenting on the recognition, Executive Chef Paul Froggatt said, “For Essence to receive not just one, but two MICHELIN stars is something you dream about. This recognition belongs to every single person who has walked through our kitchen doors, from our talented kitchen and front of house staff, to our suppliers and our growers. New Zealand’s food story, in our opinion, is one of the most compelling in the world, and we’re incredibly proud to be part of it.”
The One MICHELIN Star restaurants include Ahi., Mudbrick, Paris Butter, Tala, and The Estate in Auckland; Jano Bistro, Logan Brown, and Ortega in Wellington; Inati and Tussock Hill in Christchurch; and Amisfield, Kika, Rātā, and Sherwood in Queenstown.
The inaugural Guide also recognised 35 Bib Gourmand restaurants for offering excellent food at affordable prices, with 13 in Auckland, four in Wellington, 10 in Christchurch, and eight in Queenstown. Another 60 restaurants were included in the MICHELIN Guide Selected, highlighting culinary excellence across the four regions.
Speaking about the launch, Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of The MICHELIN Guide, said, “It is rare to award such a quantity of stars in a country’s inaugural launch – New Zealand’s performance has been genuinely impressive. The destination presents more than a selection of outstanding restaurants: to our Inspectors, it revealed a contemporary culinary map shaped by unique terroir and a food culture in quiet harmony with nature.”
He added, “From the four regions, every city across New Zealand presents a different side of the country’s food culture. Yet they all share one central theme: purity. It is seen in high-quality seasonal local produce, fresh ingredients gifted by nature and guided by a culinary philosophy that honours their essence, allowing regional character to shine through. It is felt too, in the sincere, down-to-earth hospitality found everywhere, from bustling cities to remote small towns.”
Executive Chef Nick Honeyman of Paris Butter, which received One MICHELIN Star, said, “New Zealand has had a thriving culinary scene for years - to see so many of our peers recognised in the inaugural ceremony is testament to how unique our food scene is. No matter where you go in the country or what you eat, the freshness of our produce and our culinary excellence shine through. I’ve always thought we were amongst the best in the world, and now The MICHELIN Guide has confirmed that.”
The Guide also highlights the values that shape New Zealand's culinary identity, including Tiakitanga, the Māori principle of guardianship and conservation, and Manaakitanga, which reflects hospitality, kindness, and generosity. These values are reflected in restaurants such as Ahi in Auckland, which celebrates seasonal ingredients and Māori heritage, Tala, which honours Pacific culture through its dining experience, and Sherwood in Queenstown, known for using produce from its own gardens and locally foraged ingredients.
The Guide further showcases restaurants that make the most of New Zealand's diverse landscapes, including Ortega in Wellington, recognised for its seafood-focused menu, Tussock Hill in Christchurch, which connects vineyard dining with local cuisine, and Mudbrick on Waiheke Island, offering sweeping views alongside its culinary experience.
René de Monchy, Chief Executive of Tourism New Zealand, said, “This recognition is an acknowledgement of the people, the land, and the culture that make dining in New Zealand a truly unique experience. From the sustainable practices of our businesses harvesting fresh produce, to the deeply rooted Māori culture and manaakitanga that defines how we welcome guests, New Zealand's food and hospitality scene has something to offer every visitor, no matter the region. We warmly invite the world to dinner.”
Chef Ben Bayly of Ahi, which received One MICHELIN Star, concluded, “They say The MICHELIN Guide is worthy of a special journey, and our entire nation is ready and waiting for the world to visit. So, see you at dinner?”
The debut of the MICHELIN Guide not only recognises New Zealand's finest restaurants but also places the country firmly on the global culinary map, celebrating its local produce, cultural heritage, sustainable practices, and world-class hospitality.
Swiggy Partners with FITPASS to Promote 360-Degree Wellness ...
Swiggy Ltd. has announced a strategic partnership with FITPA...
Fairfield by Marriott Agra Strengthens Leadership Team with ...
Fairfield by Marriott Agra has announced the appointment of ...
IHCL's Taj Named India's Strongest Brand for the Fifth Conse...
Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), India's largest hospitality co...
Spain Set New FIFA World Cup Record as Final Hospitality Pri...
Spain secured their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final w...
Published on July 22, 2026
Blue Tokai Coffee Roasters, India's largest specialty coffee company, has officially entered the GCC market through a strategic partnership with Ambrosia Foods. Marking its regional debut, the brand has opened its first café at BurJuman Mall in Dubai, bringing its farm-to-cup coffee philosophy and craft-led coffee experience to one of the world's leading café destinations.
The expansion is being led by Ambrosia Foods, a GCC-focused food and beverage platform that partners with innovative consumer brands to help them grow across the region. By combining Blue Tokai's expertise in sourcing, roasting, and serving premium Indian coffee with Ambrosia Foods' regional market knowledge and operational capabilities, the partnership aims to build a strong long-term presence across the GCC.
With this addition, Blue Tokai becomes the fourth brand in Ambrosia Foods' growing portfolio, joining Biryani By Kilo, Furn Beaino, and Mr. Brown. The company continues to strengthen its presence in the region by bringing premium and scalable food and beverage concepts to GCC consumers.
Speaking on the launch, Vishwaroop Narain, Executive Chairman, Ambrosia Foods, said, “Blue Tokai is a landmark addition to our growing GCC portfolio and a brand that perfectly reflects Ambrosia Foods vision of bring proven, category-defining concepts to the region and building them for long-term success. Indian brands are increasingly finding strong resonance across the GCC, and Blue Tokai is exceptionally well positioned to introduce more consumers to the quality, craftsmanship and diversity of India's specialty coffee."
Following the opening of its first café in Dubai, Ambrosia Foods plans to expand Blue Tokai's presence across the GCC, with more than 10 locations planned over the next few years.
Founded in 2013, Blue Tokai has been at the forefront of India's specialty coffee movement, making freshly roasted Indian coffee more accessible while promoting quality, transparency, and traceability. Today, the company operates more than 250 cafés, three roasteries across India, partners directly with over 80 coffee farms, and also has an international presence in Tokyo, Japan.
The new Dubai café offers guests a selection of Blue Tokai's single-estate coffees, signature blends, and seasonal offerings. Visitors can also explore different brewing methods that highlight the unique flavour profiles and origins of Indian coffee, all within a modern café setting.
Speaking about the expansion, Shivam Shahi, Co-Founder and COO, Blue Tokai Coffee Roasters, said, “India has an extraordinary coffee heritage, yet its potential as a world-class specialty coffee origin is only beginning to gain global recognition. For more than a decade, Blue Tokai has focused on strengthening the connection between coffee producers and consumers while creating spaces where people can discover the craft and stories behind every cup. Expanding into the GCC marks an important milestone in our journey as we introduce Indian specialty coffee to new audiences. The region's vibrant café culture and appreciation for thoughtfully crafted experiences make it a natural next step in our growth.”
Published on July 20, 2026
Spain were crowned FIFA World Cup 2026 champions after defeating defending champions Argentina 1-0 in an intense final that was decided in extra time.
The match remained goalless through regulation time before Ferran Torres, who came on as a second-half substitute, scored the winner in the 106th minute. Latching onto a loose ball inside the penalty area, Torres fired a left-footed strike under the crossbar to hand Spain its second FIFA World Cup title, the first since its triumph in 2010.
"It was a goal scored by 47 million people," Torres said, referring to Spain's population.
Spain's breakthrough came after Argentina were reduced to 10 men late in regulation when Enzo Fernández was shown a red card following a reckless challenge. The dismissal shifted momentum in Spain's favour before Torres delivered the decisive moment in extra time.
Spain's defence once again proved its strength, successfully protecting the narrow lead until the final whistle. The newly crowned champions conceded just one goal in eight matches throughout the tournament, setting a new record for the fewest goals conceded by a FIFA World Cup-winning team.
The victory also denied Lionel Messi a second consecutive World Cup title in what the Argentine captain had indicated would be his final appearance at the tournament.
The trophy presentation brought together several dignitaries, including FIFA President Gianni Infantino, King Felipe VI of Spain, and US President Donald Trump, who presented the FIFA World Cup trophy to the Spanish team.
Before the trophy lift, Trump briefly greeted Spain captain Rodri, describing him as his favourite player before congratulating the team on its historic achievement.
As Spain celebrated lifting football's most prestigious prize, an emotional scene unfolded for Argentina. Led by Lionel Messi, the players collected their silver medals to a standing ovation from supporters inside the stadium. Fans applauded the team as the anthem "Muchachos" echoed around the venue, acknowledging Argentina's remarkable journey despite falling short in the final.
For Spain, the victory marks a return to the top of world football after 16 years, while Argentina's campaign ended with disappointment but earned admiration for reaching another FIFA World Cup final.
Published on July 18, 2026
The countdown has begun for the FIFA World Cup 2026 final, with Spain set to face Argentina in one of the most anticipated matches of the tournament. While football fans from around the world are preparing for the title clash, concerns over deteriorating air quality have emerged across New York and New Jersey, where the final will be played.
Ahead of Sunday's final, France and England will compete in the third-place playoff at Hard Rock Stadium, Florida, before attention shifts to the championship match.
However, just days before the final, authorities issued an air quality alert for parts of New York and New Jersey after smoke from massive Canadian wildfires spread across the northeastern United States.
Smoke from hundreds of active wildfires in Canada has covered large parts of the country, stretching from the Midwest to the Northeast. Officials have advised residents and visitors to limit outdoor activities, remain indoors where possible and avoid prolonged exposure to the polluted air.
The FIFA World Cup 2026 final between Spain and Argentina is scheduled to take place on Sunday, July 19 (12:30 a.m. IST on July 20) at SoFi Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
The air quality concerns intensified as Spain's squad arrived in New Jersey on Wednesday night, following its semi-final victory over France in Texas.
Despite the environmental challenges, preparations for the World Cup final continue, with thousands of supporters expected to travel to New Jersey to witness the clash between the European champions and the defending world champions.
Authorities are expected to continue monitoring air quality levels closely in the lead-up to the final while advising residents, visitors and fans to follow public health guidelines if conditions worsen.
Stay up-to-date with the latest Hospitality news and trends in the Hospitality industry!
Subscribe to Hospitality news e-magazine for free and never miss an issue.
By clicking subscribe for free you agree to the Terms & Conditions and acknowledge our Privacy Policy.
Advertise With Us
We have various options to advertise with us including Events, Advertorials, Banners, Mailers, etc.
A platform dedicated to showcase the skills and creativity of hospitality professionals. Share your articles, videos and other content related to the industry and get recognized for your unique perspective and expertise. By posting your content and gaining likes from your own community, we'll categorize your talents and expose them to the hospitality world. Join our community of passionate hospitality professionals and let your talent shine!.
Already have an account?Login
By clicking you agree to the Terms & Conditions and acknowledge our Privacy Policy.
Subscribe for ₹2,000 and receive our monthly magazine for one year (12 months) from the coming month and save 2 months cost.