Sézanne in Tokyo Claims Top Spot on 'Asia's 50 Best Restaurants 2024' List

Tokyo's gastronomic landscape has a new champion as Sézanne claims the top position on the coveted "Asia's 50 Best Restaurants 2024" list. This neo-classical French restaurant, adorned with two Michelin stars, has ascended from the second spot in 2023 to clinch the prestigious title. Situated on the 7th floor of the Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Marunouchi, Sézanne has captured the hearts and palates of discerning diners, solidifying its reputation as an epicurean haven.

Culinary Prowess Across Asia

The culinary prowess of Japan shines brightly, with a total of nine establishments securing a place on this year's list. Notably, Singapore, despite its modest size, proudly boasts nine restaurants, standing shoulder to shoulder with Japan. Remarkably, China, a colossal nation over 13,000 times larger than Singapore, eclipses the list with 11 acclaimed restaurants, including six from Hong Kong, four from Shanghai and one from Macao.

Singapore's Diverse Culinary Tapestry

Singapore's gastronomic diversity is spotlighted with an array of esteemed restaurants. Odette remains a stalwart in the top 10, retaining its position at No. 10, while Burnt Ends, an avant-garde Australian barbecue restaurant, secures the No. 15 spot. Notably, the city-state is also home to Euphoria (No. 20), Born (No. 25), Meta (No. 28), Labyrinth (No. 30), newcomer Seroja (No. 31), the French icon Les Amis (No. 38), and the exciting addition of Lolla (No. 43).

Bangkok's Gastronomic Triumph

The vibrant culinary scene of Bangkok impresses with eight restaurants making the prestigious list, six of which are ranked in the top 20. Gaggan Anand (No. 3) leads the charge, followed by Nusara (No. 6), Sühring (No. 7), Sorn (No. 11), Le Du (No. 12), and Potong (No. 17), showcasing the city's culinary diversity and innovation.

Restaurants featured on the top 50 list are situated across 19 cities in Asia, underscoring the regional diversity and culinary excellence that permeates the continent. From Tokyo to Manila, the list is a testament to the rich tapestry of flavors that define the Asian dining landscape.

1. Sézanne, Tokyo
2. Florilège, Tokyo
3. Gaggan Anand, Bangkok
4. The Chairman, Hong Kong
5. Wing, Hong Kong - Highest Climber Award (32 places from 2023)
6. Nusara, Bangkok - Art of Hospitality Award
7. Sühring, Bangkok
8. Den, Tokyo
9. La Cime, Osaka, Japan
10. Odette, Singapore

Honoring Culinary Excellence

Among the diverse array of accolades, Potong from Bangkok garners the esteemed title of Asia's Best Female Chef with Pichaya "Pam" Soontornyanakij. Additionally, Bangkok's Haoma earns the "Sustainable Restaurant Award" and secures the No. 90 ranking on the extended list. Notably, the restaurant's commitment to sustainable practices, including farm-to-table and zero-waste cooking, has been recognized and lauded by the 50 Best organization.

A Rigorous Selection Process

The "Asia's 50 Best Restaurants 2024" list is meticulously curated based on the subjective evaluations of over 300 industry insiders from across Asia. With the ability to nominate up to 10 restaurants, including seven from their own country, these esteemed individuals lend their expertise to shape the annual rankings.

Judges representing six distinct regions, including the Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asia (south), Southeast Asia (north), Hong Kong, Taiwan and Macao, mainland China and Korea, and Japan, form the foundation of the selection process. This comprehensive approach ensures that the rich tapestry of Asian culinary artistry is encapsulated in the rankings, embracing the diversity and ingenuity of the region's gastronomic landscape.

In addition to honoring the culinary excellence of the region, the 50 Best organization also pays homage to the vibrant bar scene with its annual ranking for "Asia's 50 Best Bars." Celebrating the craftsmanship and innovation of mixologists, this esteemed list showcases the best bars across Asia, elevating the art of libations to new heights.