Following the successful move to Thailand in 2016, the Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants awards ceremony will return to Bangkok in 2017. Now celebrating its fifth year, the prestigious event, sponsored by S.Pellegrino and Acqua Panna, will take place at the W Hotel in Bangkok on the evening of Tuesday, 21st February 2017.
Hosted with the support of the Tourism Authority of Thailand, Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants will gather the region’s most renowned chefs, industry VIPs and international media to announce the 2017 list. Since launching in 2013, Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants has become the most trusted and credible guide to the best places to eat around the region. The 2016 list welcomed 10 new entries and showcased the best dining experiences in 13 Asian countries, more than ever before.
The 2017 programme will include the #50BestTalks event, a combination of local food discovery and interactive chef demonstrations that explores regional food trends and local Thai cooking techniques. Scheduled for Monday, 20th February, the one-day curated forum will feature some of Asia’s most influential culinary leaders, including chefs from Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants list.
William Drew, Group Editor of Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants, says: “After the success of the 2016 event, we’re thrilled to return to Thailand for the fifth edition of Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants. Given the country’s rich culinary history, unique Thai hospitality and vibrant restaurant scene, Thailand is rightly regarded as one of the most celebrated food capitals of the world and an ideal host country for Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants.”
H.E. Kobkarn Wattanavrangkul, Minister of Tourism and Sports of Thailand, says: “When visitors enjoy a quality dining experience in Thailand, it means they have enjoyed a meal from the best quality Thai farm
products, in a creative ambience, with exemplary service. We want the world to experience and enjoy the flavours of the Thai nation, and for international chefs to either come to Thailand or remain in their home kitchens to whip up amazing dishes with fresh and tasty Thai ingredients.”
Thailand’s prominence in Asia’s culinary scene continues to grow. For the last three years, Bangkok restaurants have claimed the No.1 spot on the Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants list. David Thompson’s Nahm took top honours in 2014 while Gaggan Anand’s eponymous restaurant secured the No.1 spot in 2015 and again last year. Along with Gaggan and Nahm, the 2016 list also featured the Bangkok-based restaurants Eat Me (No.23), and Issaya Siamese Club (No.19).