WORLD’S 50 BEST RESTAURANTS
It’s awards season, and one of our favourites is the 50 Best organisation, which announced its 2024 list of the World’s 50 Best Restaurants at a ceremony in Las Vegas, USA on June 5. The revered awards take on the enormous task of naming the best restaurants in the entire world. This year Disfrutar in Barcelona, took the coveted top spot, replacing Lima restaurant Central, which was 2023’s winner.
No. 1: Disfrutar
Barcelona, Spain
The collective creation of Chefs Oriol Castro, Eduard Xatruch and Mateu Casañas produces food that surprises and delights in equal measure, using modern techniques and pristine ingredients that challenge traditional preconceptions of fine dining, resulting in one of the world’s most immersive culinary experiences.
No.2: Asador Etxebarri
Atxondo, Spain
Nestled in the Basque countryside, Asador Etxebarri is renowned for its exceptional grilling techniques. Chef-owner Victor Arguinzoniz masterfully utilises various woods to impart distinct flavours to premium ingredients, creating dishes that highlight the essence of each component. The restaurant's rustic setting and commitment to simplicity have earned it international acclaim.
No. 3: Table by Bruno Verjus
Paris, France
Table by Bruno Verjus is celebrated for its ingredient-driven approach. Chef Bruno Verjus emphasizes the purity and quality of seasonal produce, crafting dishes that are both simple and sophisticated. The restaurant's philosophy centres on sustainability and respect for nature, which has garnered it significant recognition.
No.4: DiverXO
Madrid, Spain
Chef Dabiz Muñoz enjoys pushing gastronomic boundaries as much as possible and his 12-course menu is a clear demonstration of this. XO tapas of roasted baby octopus with jamón essence start the theatrical journey through the Spanish chef’s creations, which may end with a sweet touch of mochi bonbons with Thai-style dulce de leche and finger lime.
No.5: Maido
Lima, Peru
Maido in Lima is a vibrant tribute to Nikkei cuisine, where Japanese precision meets Peruvian flair. Chef Mitsuharu “Micha” Tsumura celebrates the union of these two rich culinary traditions, creating dishes that harmonise bold local flavours with Japanese techniques. Each plate is an intricate blend of colour, texture, and taste, showcasing the finest ingredients from Peru’s land and sea. Maido’s menu surprises and delights, with dishes like sea urchin rice, ceviche, and wagyu that capture the spirit of innovation. The warm and elegant setting, paired with impeccable hospitality, makes Maido a standout destination in Lima’s food scene.
No.6: Atomix
New York, USA
Atomix in New York City redefines modern Korean cuisine through a refined, thoughtful lens. Helmed by husband-and-wife team Junghyun and Ellia Park, the restaurant offers a meticulously curated tasting menu that balances tradition with innovation. Dishes are presented alongside illustrated cards that provide insights into their ingredients and inspiration, creating an immersive and educational dining experience. With its sleek, minimalist design and focus on storytelling, Atomix transforms Korean flavours into sophisticated, contemporary creations.
No.7: Quintonil
Mexico City, Mexico
Quintonil is the setting for chef Jorge Vallejo’s boundary-pushing Mexican cuisine and his wife Alejandra Flores’ remarkable hospitality. Focused on fresh, local produce and traditional Mexican flavours and techniques weaved into modern preparations, it is fast becoming a classic. Notable haute cuisine curios include the catch of the day in grasshopper adobo and charred avocado tartare with ant larvae. The chic yet understated front of house is led by Vallejo’s wife Alejandra Flores.
No. 8: Alchemist
Copenhagen, Denmark
Alchemist in Copenhagen is a multi-sensory culinary experience that blends gastronomy, art, and theatre. Led by Chef Rasmus Munk, the restaurant challenges conventional dining with its immersive, avant-garde concept. Guests embark on a journey through carefully crafted “impressions” that go beyond taste, engaging sight, sound, and emotion. The experience unfolds in striking settings, from a dome showcasing mesmerising visuals to intimate, curated spaces. Alchemist’s dishes are as thought-provoking as they are delicious, often reflecting social and environmental themes.
No.9: Gaggan
Bangkok, Thailand
Gaggan in Bangkok is a rebellious and playful interpretation of Indian cuisine, masterminded by Chef Gaggan Anand. Known for his creative, unconventional approach, Gaggan’s tasting menu surprises with its whimsical presentations and bold, layered flavours. Dishes often arrive as visual puzzles, evoking joy and curiosity before revealing their taste. While rooted in Indian tradition, the menu incorporates global influences and techniques, reflecting the chef’s innovative spirit.
No.10: Don Julio
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Don Julio in Buenos Aires is the epitome of Argentine steakhouse excellence. Housed in a charming corner building, this beloved parrilla is famed for its perfectly grilled, grass-fed beef sourced from Argentina’s finest cattle. Chef-owner Pablo Rivero ensures that every cut, from ribeye to sirloin, is expertly prepared over a traditional wood-fired grill, resulting in unmatched tenderness and flavour.
And the rest of the best… 11 - 50
11. Septime, Paris
12. Lido 84, Gardone Riviera, Italy
13. Trèsind Studio, Dubai, UAE
14. Quique Dacosta, Dénia, Spain
15. Sézanne, Tokyo
16. Kjolle, Lima, Peru
17. Kol, London
18. Plénitude, Paris
19. Reale, Castel di Sangro, Italy
20. Wing, Hong Kong
21. Florilège, Tokyo
22. Steirereck, Vienna
23. Sühring, Bangkok
24. Odette, Singapore
25. El Chato, Bogotá, Colombia
26. The Chairman, Hong Kong
27. A Casa do Porco, São Paulo
28. Elkano, Getaria, Spain
29. Boragó, Santiago, Chile
30. Restaurant Tim Raue, Berlin
31. Belcanto, Lisbon, Portugal
32. Den, Tokyo
33. Pujol, Mexico City
34. Rosetta, Mexico City
35. Frantzen, Stockholm
36. The Jane, Antwerp, Belgium
37. Oteque, Rio de Janeiro
38. Sorn, Bangkok
39. Piazza Duomo, Alba
40. Le Du, Bangkok
41. Mayta, Lima, Peru
42. Ikoyi, London
43. Nobelhart & Schmutzig, Berlin
44. Mingles, Seoul, South Korea
45. Arpege, Paris
46. Single Thread, Healdsburg, California
47. Schloss Schauenstein, Fürstenau, Switzerland
48. Hisa Franko, Kobarid, Slovenia
49. La Colombe, Cape Town, South Africa
50. Uliassi, Senigallia, Italy