Zareh named Gourmet Traveller Restaurant of the Year

Melbourne restaurant Zareh has been named Restaurant of the Year at the 2026 Gourmet Traveller Restaurant Awards, as the publication marked its 60th anniversary.

The Collingwood restaurant also took out the Victorian state award at the annual event, which recognised winners across 10 categories spanning restaurants, chefs, emerging talent and hospitality.

Tasmania's Christian Ryan, of Aløft Restaurant and Restaurant Maria, was named Chef of the Year, while Melbourne's Yiaga received Best New Restaurant. 

Saavni Krishnan and Aditya Suresh of Saadi in Melbourne were named Best New Talent.

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National winners announced

The Woodshed in Kin Kin, Queensland, won Best Destination Dining, while Tread Lightly in Willunga, South Australia, was named Bar of the Year.

‘Big’ Sam Young, of S'more and Young's Palace in NSW, received Restaurant Personality of the Year, while Sydney institution Beppi's was recognised for Enduring Excellence.

Stephanie Alexander received the Outstanding Contribution to Hospitality award.

State Restaurant of the Year winners included Bistro Livi in Murwillumbah for NSW, The Woodshed in Kin Kin for Queensland, Esmay in Hackney for South Australia, Scholé in Hobart for Tasmania and De'sendent in Margaret River for Western Australia.

Gourmet Traveller marks 60 years

Gourmet Traveller editor David Meagher said the awards continued to recognise the people and venues shaping Australian dining.

“For 60 years, Gourmet Traveller has celebrated the people and places that define Australia's dining culture. This year's winners reflect the extraordinary depth of talent across the country - from emerging voices reshaping Australian dining to enduring institutions that continue to set the benchmark for hospitality. It's a privilege to recognise those who continue to inspire and elevate our industry.”