The Global Culinary Landscape in 2025: A New Era of Fine Dining
The world of fine dining has seen a remarkable transformation in 2025, with the annual “World’s 50 Best Restaurants” list unveiling a new era of culinary excellence. This prestigious recognition, often likened to the Oscars of the gastronomic world, highlights restaurants that are redefining what it means to experience high-end cuisine. From the bustling streets of Lima to the serene landscapes of Copenhagen, these establishments are pushing the boundaries of creativity, sustainability, and cultural fusion.
The Top Spot: Maido in Lima, Peru
At the top of this year’s list is Maido, a restaurant located in Lima, Peru. Owned and operated by chef Mitsuharu “Micha” Tsumura, Maido has been celebrated for its unique approach to Nikkei cuisine, which blends meticulous Japanese techniques with vibrant Peruvian ingredients. The restaurant’s seasonal menu offers a dining experience that is both culturally rich and innovatively modern. Tsumura, who accepted the award, expressed his gratitude and excitement about the future of his establishment, stating, “This is going to be 16 years of Maido. I think gastronomy — food and hospitality — can do amazing things. They can make dreams come true.”
Second Place: Asador Etxebarri in Spain
In second place is Asador Etxebarri, a Spanish favorite located in Atxondo, Spain. Known for its rustic charm and mountainous setting, this restaurant specializes in flame-grilled meats and seafood. Its commitment to quality and authenticity has made it a beloved destination for food enthusiasts across the globe.
Third Place: Quintonil in Mexico City
Mexico City’s Quintonil takes third place on the list. This restaurant focuses on fresh, local ingredients and traditional Mexican flavors, but with a modern twist. Dishes such as spider crab in green mole or cactus sorbet reflect the restaurant’s dedication to innovation while honoring its roots.
Other Notable Entries
Following closely behind are several other notable entries, including DiverXO in Madrid, Spain, which is run by chef Dabiz Muñoz and known for its creative and unpredictable dishes with Asian influences. Alchemist in Copenhagen, Denmark, offers delicacies such as various types of caviar, amazing seafood, and pigeon aged in beeswax. Gaggan, based in Bangkok, Thailand, continues to impress with its innovative approach to Indian cuisine, led by legendary chef Gaggan Anand.
The Rise of Asia in the Culinary World
Asia has made a significant impact on this year’s list, with six restaurants from Bangkok making the top 50. Among them is Potong, which secured the 13th spot in its inaugural appearance on the list. Opened in 2021 in the city’s Chinatown area, Potong is set in a historic building that once housed the family’s Chinese herbal medicine business. Its innovative tasting menu, featuring Thai-Chinese cuisine, has earned it fast fans and a Michelin star.
Another standout is Ikoyi, a London-based restaurant that moved up 27 spots from the 2024 list to land at number 15 this year. Serving what 50 Best refers to as “category free cuisine,” Ikoyi has gained recognition for its signature dish—smoked jollof rice—inspired by sub-Saharan West Africa.
The United States’ Contribution
While the majority of the top 50 restaurants are located outside the United States, the country still has a presence with Atomix in New York City, which ranked at number 12. Atomix also won the “Outstanding Hospitality” award at the recent James Beard Awards, highlighting its commitment to exceptional service and culinary excellence.
The Compilation Process
The annual list is compiled based on the votes of the World’s 50 Best Restaurants Academy, which includes over 1,100 international restaurant industry experts. These experts include food writers, chefs, and other professionals who evaluate restaurants based on their overall dining experience, innovation, and quality.
Restaurants can only win the top prize once, after which they are entered into a separate “Best of the Best” program. This elite group includes renowned establishments such as Geranium and Noma in Copenhagen, New York’s Eleven Madison Park, The Fat Duck near London, Osteria Francescana in Modena, Italy, Mirazur in Menton, France, and Central of Lima. Last year’s winner, Barcelona’s Disfrutar, is also part of this distinguished list.
A Global Celebration of Culinary Excellence
The 2025 list of the “World’s 50 Best Restaurants” serves as a testament to the global nature of fine dining. It showcases how different cultures and regions contribute to the ever-evolving landscape of gastronomy. From the traditional to the avant-garde, these restaurants are not just places to eat—they are experiences that celebrate the art of cooking and the joy of sharing meals.
As the culinary world continues to evolve, one thing remains clear: the pursuit of excellence in food is a universal language that transcends borders and brings people together. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a curious newcomer, the 2025 list offers a glimpse into the future of fine dining and the endless possibilities that lie ahead.
