Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2025: A Grand Celebration

The much-anticipated Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2025 awards ceremony took place on March 25th, 2025, at the Grand Hyatt Seoul, in the heart of South Korea’s vibrant capital. Organised by The World's 50 Best Restaurants and proudly sponsored by San Pellegrino and Acqua Panna, this prestigious event brought together culinary visionaries from across the continent to celebrate gastronomic excellence.

---

Honouring Asia's Finest Culinary Talents

The ceremony was a spectacular affair, with some of the best chefs and restaurants in the region receiving well-deserved accolades. The night was filled with moments of inspiration as winners took the stage to accept their awards, showcasing the talent and innovation that define Asia’s dynamic culinary landscape.

Team Japan’s Achievements

Team Japan at Asia's 50 Best Restaurants 2025 Ceremony in Grand Hyatt, Seoul

A strong presence was felt from Japan, with multiple restaurants securing spots on the list:

• 4. SÉZANNE (Tokyo, Marunouchi)

• 6. La Cime (Osaka)

• 8. NARISAWA (Tokyo, Aoyama)

• 17. Florilège (Tokyo, Azabudai)

• 22. Den (Tokyo, Gaienmae)

• 30. Crony (Tokyo, Higashi-Azabu)

• 33. Sushi Saito (Tokyo, Roppongi)

• 34. Sazenka (Tokyo, Minami-Azabu)

• 36. Goh (Fukuoka)

• 43. MAZ (Tokyo, Nagatacho)

• 45. Myoujyaku (Tokyo, Nishi-Azabu)

---

Exclusive Collaboration Events Across Seoul

Leading up to the awards, Seoul played host to an array of exclusive collaboration dinners and networking events, where top-tier chefs came together for once-in-a-lifetime culinary experiences.

Ando x Crony x Restaurant Allen x Respiración

📍 Restaurant Allen, Seoul

A remarkable 11-course tasting menu brought together Michelin-starred restaurants from Hong Kong, Tokyo, Seoul, and Kanazawa.

The highlights included:

• Torigai Clam Chawanmushi with Kombu & Caviar (Crony)

• Scallop with Piparras, Celtuce & Avocado (Ando)

• 21-Day Dry-Aged Duck with Mini Cos Lettuce (Allen)

• Dessert Inspired by Noto Cedar Tree (Respiración)

---

JL Dessert Bar x Rosewood Hong Kong

📍 JL Dessert Bar, Seoul

A decadent afternoon tea featuring Jonathan Soukdeo from Rosewood Hong Kong and Justin Lee from JL Dessert Bar.

Standout dishes included:

• Brioche with Lime Ice Cream, Caviar & Bonito Flakes

• Yukhoe Bibimbap Tart with Incheon Rice

• Ginger & Yogurt Gelato with Earl Grey & Grapefruit Sauce

---

Grand Majestic Sichuan x The Great Hong Yuan

📍 The Great Hong Yuan, Seoul

An unforgettable dinner that fused bold Sichuan flavours from Grand Majestic Sichuan (Hong Kong) with The Great Hong Yuan (Seoul).

Highlights included:

• Hanwoo Beef Short Rib in a Sea of Chilli

• Sichuan Fried Chicken

• Sichuan Peppercorn Ice Cream

---

The Gimbap Sisters Networking Event

📍 Narang, Seoul

A unique outdoor spring picnic celebrated women in the culinary industry, focusing on food writers, marketers, and influencers. The spotlight was on gimbap with a twist, featuring creations inspired by cities around the world, proving that traditional Korean rice rolls can take on a global identity.

---

A Night to Remember

The Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2025 ceremony at Grand Hyatt Seoul was not just a celebration of fine dining but a powerful testament to the diverse and evolving nature of Asia’s culinary scene. With high-profile networking events and exclusive collaborations, Seoul reaffirmed itself as a gastronomic hub that continues to captivate food lovers worldwide.

Huge congratulations to all the winners and nominees for their incredible achievements - here’s to another year of groundbreaking culinary artistry across Asia!

Numazu Club: A Hidden Gem by Suruga Bay, Shizuoka

Located near the tranquil shores of Suruga Bay in Shizuoka, Numazu Club offers an unparalleled retreat where heritage meets contemporary luxury. This intimate hideaway, recognised with One Michelin Key, seamlessly blends history and modern comfort, making it a perfect escape for those seeking serenity and refinement.

A Historic Experience & Exclusive Accommodations

With only eight exclusive rooms, Numazu Club ensures an intimate experience surrounded by towering pines and an immaculately kept Japanese garden. The property is anchored by a beautifully preserved Meiji-era sukiya-style teahouse, which has been thoughtfully restored to retain its historical charm, while a modern annex provides sleek and understated accommodation. Every detail has been meticulously curated to evoke a sense of calm, from the traditional wooden architecture to the lush green surroundings.

The tranquil gardens within Numazu Club

Relax & Rejuvinate at the Refined Retreat

For those seeking relaxation, the outdoor bath and stone sauna offer a therapeutic escape, with open-air soaking experiences that allow guests to unwind amidst nature. The bath facilities at Numazu Club receive high praise, making it a destination worth visiting for those who appreciate the art of bathing.

The relaxing outdoor bath with an open roof

Gastronomic Delights at Chatei

Dining at Chatei, the hotel’s Chinese-inspired restaurant, is a highlight of the stay. Overseen by Ichirin-Hanare, a celebrated restaurant from Kamakura, the menu features a thoughtfully curated selection of seasonal delicacies. The dinner experience includes specialties such as drunken Shanghai crab, spicy "yodaredori" steamed chicken and delicately spiced mapo tofu, showcasing refined flavours with an elegant presentation. Breakfast continues this theme of sophistication, offering an array of local seafood, dim sum, and finely prepared small dishes, making each meal an experience to remember.

Drunken Shanghai crab, marinated in sweet Shaoxing wine

For a refined and tranquil retreat combining historical charm with modern luxury, Numazu Club stands as an exceptional hidden gem. Whether soaking in an outdoor bath, strolling through the pristine gardens, or indulging in an exquisite dining experience, every moment here is designed to be savoured.

Janu Tokyo: A Luxury Retreat in the Heart of Azabudai Hills

Located in the vibrant Azabudai Hills, Janu Tokyo offers an exquisite blend of modern luxury and personalised hospitality, creating a sanctuary of tranquillity for those seeking an extraordinary escape. Known for its sophisticated design and unparalleled service, Janu Tokyo has quickly become one of the top hotels in Tokyo for refined travellers.

An Unforgettable Birthday at Janu Tokyo

What began as a routine visit to the hotel for an article I was working on soon turned into an unforgettable birthday celebration, thanks to the incredible coordination between my husband and the Janu team. Navigating a long-distance marriage, with my husband in Hong Kong and our schedules often clashing, meant that my expectations for a birthday celebration this year were modest. Yet, Janu Tokyo surprised me with an intimate birthday escape that felt like a dream come true.

A birthday surprise prepared by the Janu hotel staff

A Personalised Experience Like No Other

After a delightful tasting session at Janu Patisserie, the hotel manager casually offered a room tour, leading us through a discreet entrance into a beautifully appointed corner suite. To my astonishment, the room was adorned with delicate flower petals, setting the perfect tone for a serene birthday getaway.

The personalised hospitality at Janu Tokyo was evident from the seamless check-in process to the impeccable in-room dining experience. I spent the day relaxing with my husband, enjoying a private dinner, a leisurely breakfast, and the expansive pool, as well as indulgent massage treatments—a rare moment of tranquillity for two busy professionals.

A rose petal filled bath tub

Aperitifs at Janu Bar: A Sip of Luxury

At Janu Bar, located within Janu Tokyo, we experienced a masterclass in mixology. The menu, curated by Shuzo Nagumo, features cocktails inspired by Tokyo’s diverse neighbourhoods. We sampled the non-alcoholic Well-Scent, a refreshing blend of Assam tea, chardonnay, and wellness clarified green air, as well as the vibrant Giverny, a complex mix of Nema absinthe, coconut water, kiwi, and passion fruit.

Dinner at Hu Jing: Where Tradition Meets Innovation

Dinner at Hu Jing, the signature Chinese restaurant at Janu Tokyo, offered a perfect blend of tradition and innovation. A standout dish was the Sichuan-inspired Yodaredori, poached chicken with a spicy sauce, now enhanced with a nutty dukkah spice kick. The chef’s skillful use of high-quality ingredients and bold flavours made it a memorable culinary experience, complementing the hotel’s refined atmosphere.

Sushi at Iigura: Elevated Edomae Omakase

Iigura offers a refined yet approachable take on omakase, led by Chef Shinohara, whose chance encounter with a sushi master in his teens set him on a lifelong path in the craft. The multi-course experience highlights seasonal seafood with precision and flair—standout bites include the truffle and abalone handroll—all served in a serene, high-ceilinged space that balances elegance with ease.

Breakfast at Janu Mercato: A Perfect Start to the Day

We enjoyed a relaxing breakfast at Janu Mercato, with our pooch, Qoo the Pomchi, joining us on the dog-friendly terrace. The Focaccia Sandwich, filled with caponata, chicken breast, genovese sauce, and raclette, was a hearty delight, while the Avocado Toast, topped with red cabbage rapee, poached egg, roasted cumin seed, and lime, offered a refreshing twist.

Janu Patisserie: Sweet Moments of Connection

At Janu Patisserie, the Januron steals the show—a decadent macaron nearly four times the size of a typical one, crafted for sharing and connection. Available in four pastel-hued flavours, the matcha variation features a delicately aromatic matcha white chocolate ganache, making it the perfect sweet treat to enjoy with loved ones.

Why Janu Tokyo is a Must-Visit

For anyone seeking a luxurious and personalised experience in Tokyo, Janu Tokyo is truly a destination that stands out. The hotel’s commitment to creating meaningful, effortless experiences makes it the perfect choice for those looking to unwind and connect, whether for a special occasion or simply to escape the demands of daily life.

Stunning view of Tokyo Tower from the lounge area

Janu Tokyo is redefining what luxury hospitality means, and this unforgettable birthday experience is a testament to the magic the hotel can offer. From the thoughtful gestures of the hotel team to the personalised touches that made the weekend special, Janu Tokyo has earned its place as one of the city’s premier luxury hotels.