The much-anticipated eighth edition of the Asia's 50 Best Restaurants list was unveiled today. In light of the ongoing spread of COVID-19 and travel restrictions across Asia, the winners were revealed online, in place of a glitzy awards ceremony originally slated to be held in Japan's Saga Prefecture.
At 4pm today (Singapore time), the countdown began through a virtual ceremony streamed live on Asia's 50 Best Restaurants' Facebook page and YouTube channel.
Addressing the online audience at the start of the ceremony, William Drew, Director of Content of The World's 50 Best Restaurants, said: Today, the hospitality sector, just as the world as a whole, is experiencing unprecedented challenge due to the COVID-19 virus. We know that many millions of people are suffering all across the world right now. Our first thoughts and best wishes go out to those so adversely affected by this crisis.
Today’s announcement is not a celebration. The objective is one of recognition. This time, more than ever, the restaurant sector needs support. Recognising the hard work and talent of teams and individuals remains valid. Showing a sense of community and mutual respect also feels important. We obviously discussed whether we should go ahead announcing this year’s list and awards... The decision to proceed was made after consulting with chefs and restaurateurs and other leading figures in gastronomy across Asia.
So today is about supporting Asia. The list and awards aim to offer some small rays of positivity even in these dark days. So let’s keep our community connected, united and prepared for eventual recovery once the situation improves.
In the hour-long livestream, Singapore's Odette took the crown for the second year running.
Full list:
1. Odette, Singapore
2. The Chairman, Hong Kong
3. Den, Tokyo
4. Belon, Hong Kong
5. Burnt Ends, Singapore
6. Suhring, Bangkok
7. Florilege, Tokyo
8. Le Du, Bangkok
9. Narisawa, Tokyo
10. La Cime, Osaka
11. Les Amis, Singapore
12. Vea, Hong Kong
13. Indian Accent, New Delhi
14. Mingles, Seoul
15. Gaa, Bangkok
16. Sorn, Bangkok
17. Il Ristorante Luca Fantin, Tokyo
18. Mume, Taipei
19. Neighborhood, Hong Kong
20. Fu He Hui, Shanghai
21. Jaan by Kirk Westaway, Singapore
22. Wing Lei Palace, Macau
23. Sichuan Moon, Macau
24. Nihonryori Ryugin, Tokyo
25. Seventh Son, Hong Kong
26. JL Studio, Taichung
27. Toctoc, Seou
28. Zen, Singapore
29. Sazenka, Tokyo
30. Ministry of Crab, Colombo
31. Amber, Hong Kong
32. 8 1/2 Otto e Mezzo Bombana, Hong Kong
33. Lung King Heen, Hong Kong
34. Hansikganggan, Seoul
35. Ode, Tokyo
36. Raw, Taipei
37. Locavore, Bali
38. Paste, Bangkok
39. Bo.lan, Bangkok
40. La Maison de la Nature Goh, Fukuoka
41. Ultraviolet by Paul Pairet, Shanghai
42. Corner House, Singapore
43. Shoun RyuGin, Taipei
44. Toyo Eatery, Manila
45. Bukhara, New Delhi
46. Sushi Saito, Tokyo
47. 80/20, Bangkok
48. L’Effervescence, Tokyo
49. Inua, Tokyo
50. Nouri, Singapore