Italian culinary excellence recognized in major wine and food awards

Italian culinary excellence has been highlighted through two major international recognition programs.

In the wine sector, Wine Spectator has awarded the Grand Award to six Italian restaurants for 2026. This top-tier distinction is reserved for establishments with exceptional wine lists, often exceeding 1,000 selections, significant depth in vintages, and superior service. Italy currently holds 64 such recognitions, including 14 new entries, placing it third globally for non-U.S. countries behind Canada and Mexico.

In the food sector, the Great Taste in Italy 2026 awards concluded in Bergamo. Out of over 15,000 products tested globally, Italian companies secured 175 recognitions. Key winners included regional excellence awards for Piedmontese hazelnut granola, Barena honey from the Northeast, cheese from central Italy, and cave-aged caciocavallo from the South. Special honors were also given to buffalo blue cheese and DOP Gorgonzola.