Pudlo Bistrot Awards 2026: when French tradition shines — with De Michellot among the official sponsors

The French bistrot is more than just a table: it's a national symbol. It's where people gather, where they share a simmered dish, a glass of wine or an after-dinner liqueur. It's a place of transmission, of conviviality, a space where this popular gastronomy that forms the identity of our country is perpetuated.

Every year, the Pudlo Bistrot Awards, conceived by food critic Gilles Pudlowski, highlight these authentic, welcoming, and deeply French establishments. The 2026 edition, celebrated on December 8, 2025, marks a historic milestone — and we are proud to announce a big piece of news:
👉 De Michellot is an official sponsor of the Pudlo Bistrot Awards 2026.

Our name thus appears alongside major French houses on the official poster, confirming our commitment to promoting artisans, terroirs, and the bistrot way of life.

What are the Pudlo Bistrot Awards?

The Pudlo Awards annually recognize the best bistros in France:

• those that respect tradition,

• those that embody popular cuisine,

• those that welcome you like family,

• those that pass on family know-how.

Unlike classic gastronomic distinctions, the Pudlo Awards prioritize what is true, simple, and sincere. They focus on everyday dining, comforting dishes, and chefs who cook with their hearts.

This year, the guide evolves and expands with the re-issue of the Petit Pudlo des Bistrots, now open to all of France.

A 2026 edition open to regional terroirs

The big news:
🔸 For the first time, provincial bistros are officially included in the rankings.

Estaminets of the North, Alsatian winstubs, country inns, Lyonnais bouchons…
The terroirs reclaim their rights and affirm a reality:
👉 the bistro spirit is not a Parisian phenomenon, it is a national heritage.

This openness perfectly aligns with De Michellot's mission: to defend regional traditions, the sincerity of taste, artisans, and the diversity of French terroirs.

The 8 emblematic awards of the Pudlo Awards 2026

Eight trophies will be awarded, each representing one of the facets of the French bistro:

• Bistrot of the Year

The main distinction: the bistrot that alone encapsulates the spirit of French tradition.

• Female Chef of the Year

A tribute to the women who bring popular cuisine to life.

• Bistrot Canaille of the Year

The generosity award: simmered dishes, grandma's recipes, assumed terroir.

• Young Bistrotier of the Year

The new generation that dusts off traditions without denying the heritage.

• Transmission Award

Family stories, handovers, institutions that stand the test of time.

• Welcome & Conviviality Award

The very essence of the bistrot: smiles, warmth, atmosphere.

• Opening of the Year Award

Recent establishments that enrich the bistro scene.

• Art de Vivre & Tradition in France

The celebration of good living, heritage, and popular elegance.

Why do the Pudlo Awards matter so much?

Because they champion popular cuisine

French gastronomy is not limited to fine dining. It thrives in bistros, everyday dishes, and recipes passed down through generations.

Because they value people

The bistrot is a social place. A place where people celebrate, discuss, laugh, share. A place where bonds are formed.

Because they strengthen French identity

In a world that is becoming uniform, the Pudlo Awards remind us of the importance of preserving this living heritage.

Because they bring terroir back to the forefront

With a nationalized edition, French regions — their products, their flavors, their know-how — are finally brought into the spotlight.

De Michellot, official sponsor of the Pudlo Awards 2026

We are proud to officially announce that De Michellot is among the sponsors of the Pudlo Bistrot Awards 2026, alongside major players such as Rungis, France Boissons, Les Ateliers Nectoux, Pernod Ricard France, etc.

This sponsorship embodies three strong commitments:

1. Support for French bistro players

They are the ones who keep the art of dining alive daily.
Our liqueurs — Gentiane, Verbena, distilled Mint, Génépi — naturally find their place, both as aperitifs and digestifs.

2. Defend terroirs and tradition

Like bistros, our liqueurs are products of transmission:

• herbs selected from French herbalists,

• artisanal recipes,

• know-how rooted in our history.

3. Promote the French art of living

Choosing to support the Pudlo Awards means choosing to defend a living heritage.
It means associating with places where real cooking happens, where people dine together, where they share.

This is the very DNA of De Michellot.

This natural link between De Michellot and the bistro world

Our products are designed to accompany these simple and warm moments:

• The De Michellot Gentiane, the great star of aperitifs.

• The Verveine, perfect for an after-dinner drink with friends.

• The Génépi, a symbol of terroir and authenticity.

• The distilled Mint, intense and refreshing.

Through our liqueurs, we perpetuate the same spirit: that of conviviality, sharing, and authentic taste.

FAQ – Pudlo Awards 2026

What are the Pudlo Bistrot Awards?

An annual ranking that recognizes the best French bistros and promotes culinary tradition.

What is the big news for the 2026 edition?

The official opening to provincial bistros, highlighting all French terroirs.

Why is De Michellot a sponsor?

To support culinary artisans, strengthen the bistro art of living, and affirm our commitment to promoting French heritage.

What are the awards given?

Eight trophies, including Bistrot of the Year, Female Chef of the Year, Transmission, Conviviality, and Art de Vivre.

Find the 2025 edition

- Pudlo Guide 2025