According to reports from the event, the 16th edition of the Rio Gastronomia and the Prêmio Rio Show de Gastronomia 2026 recognized top culinary talents at the Jockey Club Brasileiro in Gávea. Hosted by Thalita Morete, the ceremony on Friday celebrated winners across 18 distinct categories honoring chefs, restaurants, and guests in Rio de Janeiro’s vibrant dining scene.
Jessica Trindade Earns Chef of the Year Honors
Jessica Trindade secured the title of Chef of the Year at the 2026 awards. According to event coverage, she has spent two decades working alongside Claude Troisgros, directing kitchens at Chez Claude and Cantina do Claude while sharing menu development duties for Madame Olympe. Prior to opening the latter establishment, she spent a month cooking at the three-Michelin-star Maison Troisgros in France.
That preparation paid off immediately for her Leblon-based tasting menu, which earned its first Michelin star this year, establishing Trindade as the sole female chef in Rio holding that distinction. “I am so happy!” Trindade stated regarding her win, according to the source material. “I think it is a year of harvest. God is very good!”
Did you know? Jessica Trindade is currently the only female chef in Rio de Janeiro to command a Michelin-starred tasting menu, following her intensive stint at the Maison Troisgros kitchen in France.
Juliana Magioli Wins Breakthrough Chef
In the rising talent category, Juliana Magioli took home the Chef Revelação award. According to available records, Magioli spent seven years at the Copacabana Palace’s Cipriani restaurant, traveling internationally with Nello Cassese and working through the kitchens of Le Pré Catelan and Pipo.
She has spent just over a year leading Alloro al Miramar, where she independently manages a 40-item à la carte menu covering savory and sweet dishes. “It is a very special recognition,” Magioli stated, as reported by the source material. “I have been in charge of Alloro for just over a year, so receiving a prize like this is absurd for me.”
Balcão 201 Takes Best French Restaurant
Balcão 201 claimed the prize for Best French restaurant just over a year after opening its doors in May of the previous year. Operating as a spin-off of Casa 201, the eatery is led by João Paulo Frankenfeld and focuses on everyday dining rooted in classic French techniques.
“It was a really cool surprise to win this award,” Frankenfeld said, according to the source material, noting that the recognition validates the concept behind the casual establishment.
Full List of Category Winners
According to coverage from the event and participating outlets, the 18 main category winners at the Prêmio Rio Show de Gastronomia 2026 span a wide array of culinary styles:
- Chef of the Year: Jessica Trindade (Madame Olympe, Chez Claude, Cantina do Claude)
- Breakthrough Chef (Chef Revelação): Juliana Magioli (Alloro al Miramar)
- Best Tasting Menu: Lasai
- Best Contemporary: Emile
- Best French: Balcão 201
- Best Iberian: Rancho Português
- Best Brazilian: Sud, O Pássaro Verde
- Best Japanese: Haru/Umai
- Best Meat: Rufino Terraza
- Best Fish and Seafood: Satyricon
- Best Middle Eastern: Amir
- Best Pizzeria: Ferro e Farinha
- Best Traditional Bar (Pé-Sujo): Adega Pérola
- Best Brunch: Slow Bakery
- Best Dessert: Kurt
- Best Arabic: Amir
- Best Italian: Grado
- Best Asian: Elena
Frequently Asked Questions
Where did the Rio Show Gastronomia 2026 awards take place?
The ceremony was held at the Jockey Club Brasileiro located in Gávea, as part of the 16th edition of the Rio Gastronomia event.
Who won Chef of the Year at the 2026 awards?
Jessica Trindade won Chef of the Year for her work across Madame Olympe, Chez Claude, and Cantina do Claude.
Who decides the winners of the Prêmio Rio Show de Gastronomia?
According to industry reports, the annual awards are determined by a panel of journalists, food critics, and sector specialists.
Explore More Culinary Coverage
Want to stay updated on the best dining spots and chef profiles across the country? Subscribe to our newsletter or explore our latest restaurant guides today.
Keep reading