Latvia’s vibrant restaurant scene lands new Michelin star and five additions to 2025 guide

Gastronomy tourism is growing across the world, with the global culinary tourism market size forecast to increase by USD 208.6 billion (approximately EUR 200 billion) at a CAGR of 22.42% between 2023 and 2028 according to Technavio.

Latvia is strategically set to benefit from this trend as the iconic Michelin guide, known for its selection of the world’s finest dining experiences, has once again acknowledged the country as a gourmet destination. At the awards ceremony last October, it was announced that 31 restaurants representing the country's culinary excellence would be included in the 2025 edition of the prestigious guide, including two earning a coveted Michelin star.

In a first for Latvia, Max Cekot Kitchen in Riga obtained a star in 2024, establishing the country as a must-visit destination for foodies. Operating just three evenings a week, Max Cekot Kitchen presents a sleek dining room in a former woodwork factory serving a nine-course tasting menu which changes seasonally.

Retaining its star in the 2025 edition of the guide, Max Cekot Kitchen is joined by JOHN Chef's Hall, also located in Riga. According to Michelin, JOHN Chef’s Hall “joins the guide by receiving one Michelin star for delicious and contemporary cooking that masterfully uses local ingredients and perfectly reflects the changing of the seasons.”

Situated next to JOHN restaurant in A22 Hotel, which was already included in the guide last year, JOHN Chef's Hall has just four tables and ten spots for diners. Offering a view of the kitchen, the restaurant allows its few select guests more than just exceptional food, but the opportunity to discover the true value of the fine Latvian ingredients used to prepare its dishes.

Another important acknowledgement was made for Pavāru Māja, in the historical village of Ligatne, retaining the Michelin Green Star it obtained last year for its exceptional sustainability efforts. Supplied exclusively by its own home-grown vegetables and herbs and those obtained from local suppliers, Pavāru Māja offers dishes that combine culinary excellence with an eco-friendly approach.

The Investment and Development Agency of Latvia (LIAA) has been instrumental in drawing the guide’s attention to Latvia’s culinary scene. "Our collaboration with the prestigious Michelin brand has significantly enhanced foreign gourmets' interest in Latvia and highlighted our country's rich nature, culture, and history," said former Director General Raivis Bremsmits.

New additions to Latvia’s “haute cuisine” roster

The French gourmet guide has also distinguished other fine Latvian dining experiences, adding five additional establishments – B7, Babo, Lowine, Seasons, and Stage 22 – to the 26 Latvian restaurants already included in 2024. "We are pleased to welcome these new restaurants to the guide's selection. Each of them is worthy of attention,” said the guide’s International Director, Gwendal Poullennec.

B7 is a small brasserie-style restaurant on a quiet street in the centre of Riga serving a modern selection of classic flavours and seasonal dishes. The guide describes Babo, opened in the summer of 2024 and offering Georgian cuisine and wines, as “bringing something completely different to the culinary environment of Latvia.”

Lowine is a wine bar serving both traditional and modern dishes with a thoughtfully curated wine list emphasising natural wines. The list is updated weekly to keep things interesting for frequent visitors. Seasons, located in the Grand Palace Hotel, offers a seasonal menu that draws inspiration from the world's finest artists. Stage 22, on the top floor of Grand Hotel Kempinski Riga, provides guests with a beautiful view of the park and city skyline while treating them to Asian-inspired dishes.

Hall 18 / Stand 105