Must-Try Iconic Asian Dishes and Where to Find Them
Asia/ Delish/ Reviews

Asian Food Bucket List: 32 Must-Eat Dishes for Travelers

Iconic Asian Dishes

One of the thrills of visiting a new country is sampling its local delicacies and iconic dishes. Asia, the world’s most diverse continent, is home not just to rich cultures and scenic landscapes but also to a culinary heritage like no other.

If you’re traveling around Asia soon or planning to embark on an Asian adventure in the future, it’s a must to try each country’s most popular dishes before you hop on another plane.

Get ready to set off on a taste adventure like no other and dive into the world of Asian cuisine by adding the following iconic Asian dishes to your must-try list:

Hong Kong

Known as a foodie’s paradise, Hong Kong highlights a fusion of traditional Cantonese dishes, international cuisine, and innovative culinary ideas.

  • Char Siu

Often eaten with rice, noodles, or as an ingredient in stir-fries, Char Siu is a savory-sweet Cantonese-style barbecued pork. The meat used is usually pork shoulder or pork belly, which is marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, five-spice powder, and fermented red bean curd. After marinating, it’s roasted until tender, with the glaze balancing out the juicy meat inside.

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  • Wonton Noodles

A bowl of wonton noodles is a comforting meal, especially on a cold and rainy day. Featuring a flavorful broth made from chicken or pork bones, egg noodles, and wontons filled with minced pork and shrimp, wonton noodles highlight a blend of textures and flavors that you can’t help but slurp, even when the soup is piping hot.

  • Dumplings

Aside from the previously mentioned wontons, which is a type of dumpling popular in Hong Kong, there are two more must-try dumplings in the city: the dim sum dumplings and the pan-fried dumplings. The former features different fillings like pork, shrimp, and vegetables wrapped in translucent wrappers while the latter highlights a crispy bottom and a filling of pork and cabbage. These dumplings are served with dipping sauces like soy sauce and chili oil, and are often enjoyed as appetizers or snacks.

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Thailand

Fragrant and flavorful, Thailand’s most popular dishes are known for highlighting fresh ingredients and aromatic spices that make them instant hits to tourists.

  • Pad Thai

Typically prepared with rice noodles, scrambled eggs, bean sprouts, peanuts, and shrimp, pad thai is a stir-fried rice noodle dish that’s also popular as a street food in Thailand. Aside from shrimp, you may also encounter versions featuring tofu or chicken. What makes this dish stand out is the sweet, tangy flavor that comes from the blend of tamarind paste, fish sauce, and sugar in the sauce.

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  • Tom Yum

A well-loved soup in Thai cuisine, Tom Yum is known for its distinct hot and sour flavors. Making the dish filling are ingredients including chicken, shrimp, and cilantro. What makes it special is the broth that highlights lemongrass, chili peppers, lime juice, and kaffir lime leaves.

  • Khao Pad

You can’t leave Thailand without trying Khao Pad or Thai fried rice, a staple in Thai cuisine. It features cooked jasmine rice stir-fried with eggs, onions, garlic, and chicken or shrimp. It’s seasoned with fish sauce, sugar, and soy sauce to achieve a savory and sweet flavor.

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Singapore

The Lion City’s culinary scene highlights a tapestry of flavors, reflecting its diverse cultural heritage. Aside from the dishes below, make sure you also try crowd favorites like chili crab and laksa.

  • Hainanese Chicken

Originating from Hainan, China but popular in Singapore and Malaysia, Hainanese chicken features poached tender meat paired with fragrant rice. It’s served with condiments such as soy sauce, chili sauce, and ginger paste – allowing you to create a medley of flavors that goes well with the succulent chicken.

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  • Bak Kut Teh

Bak Kut Teh, which means “meat bone tea,” features pork ribs simmered in a broth made from herbs, garlic, star anise, cinnamon, and dried mushrooms, among others. A hearty and filling soup, it’s often served with rice and side dishes like vegetables and fried dough fritters.

  • Kaya Toast with Kopi

Treat yourself to a traditional Singaporean breakfast with a serving of Kaya toast with kopi. Kaya is a sweet, fragrant coconut and pandan jam that’s spread onto toasted bread. It’s best paired with kopi, a strong coffee that works well with the Kaya.

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Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Malaysia’s capital is known for offering dishes that boast diverse flavors and an exciting street food culture.

  • Nasi Lemak

Considered Malaysia’s national dish, Nasi Lemak consists of rice cooked with coconut milk and pandan leaves, which is then served with side dishes like fried eggs, slices of cucumber, roasted peanuts, and fried anchovies.

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  • Roti Canai

Often found in hawker centers and street food stalls, roti canai is a flatbread served with curries or dhal for dipping. It’s known for its flaky texture and butter flavor which complements the strong flavors of chicken, beef, or vegetable curry.

  • Karipap

Also known as curry puff, karipap is a popular snack in Malaysia featuring a crispy pastry shell filled with a savory and satisfying mixture of chicken, beef, vegetables, or curried potatoes. It’s often paired with hot coffee or tea.

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Philippines

The most popular dishes in the Philippines highlight influences of Spanish, Chinese, and indigenous Filipino cuisines.

  • Halo-halo

Cold and refreshing, Halo-halo is a well-loved Filipino dessert that becomes extra popular during summer. It features shaved ice, evaporated milk, and a mix of sweet ingredients like banana, sweet beans, gelatin, and jackfruit, to name a few. It’s also topped with leche flan (caramel custard), ube halaya (purple yam), and a scoop of ice cream.

  • Sinigang

Ask fellow tourists about their favorite Filipino dish, and chances are, it’s a toss-up between adobo and sinigang. Sinigang is a Filipino soup known for its savory profile, thanks to souring agents like tamarind or green tamarind tomatoes. It’s made by simmering meat such as pork, beef, or shrimp, along with radish, eggplant, string beans, and water spinach. It’s often seasoned with fish sauce or salt and can be made spicier with the addition of chili peppers.

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  • Sisig

Originating from Pampanga, Sisig is often enjoyed as an appetizer or as a main course. It features chopped and seasoned pork jowl and ears, pork belly, and chicken liver, which are then seasoned with calamansi, onions, and chili peppers. Sisig is often served sizzling on a hot plate and can be enjoyed with rice or an ice-cold beer.

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Japan

Japan’s popular dishes are known for their meticulous preparation, fresh ingredients, and diverse range of flavors that many love.

  • Sushi

Renowned for its balance of flavors and textures, sushi consists of vinegared rice paired with raw or cooked seafood, vegetables, and sometimes even tropical fruits. Sushi is served with soy sauce, pickled ginger, and wasabi.

  • Sashimi

Sashimi highlights the freshness of seafood as you get to enjoy thinly sliced raw fish or seafood that’s served without rice. It’s typically served on a platter with garnishes like shredded daikon radish, shiso leaves, or seaweed.

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  • Tempura

Loved for its crispy texture, tempura features seafood or vegetables coated in a light batter and deep-fried until golden brown. Common ingredients used in tempura are shrimp, eggplants, sweet potatoes, and even onions. It’s served with a sipping sauce called tentsuyu and is best enjoyed with rice or udon soup.

  • Ramen

An international favorite, ramen consists of wheat noodles served in a filling broth and topped with sliced pork or chicken, boiled egg, green onions, bamboo shoots, and nori. You have the option of choosing your preferred broth: shoyu (soy sauce-based), shio (salt-based), miso (fermented soybean paste-based), or tonkotsu (pork bone-based).

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Korea

Bold flavors and vibrant ingredients complete Korea’s most popular dishes, which have also become well-loved worldwide.

  • Samgyeopsal

Who can say no to slices of pork belly grilled to perfection? Samgyeopsal is best enjoyed with friends and family around the grill, cooking the pork belly and enjoying each slice with lettuce leaves, perilla leaves, sliced onions, and chili paste. To enjoy, just place a piece of grilled pork belly onto a lettuce leaf, add your chosen toppings, wrap, and then eat.

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  • Bibimbap

A classic Korean dish that translates to “mixed rice,” bibimbap is a bowl of rice topped with vegetables, beef, chicken, or tofu, a fried egg, and gochujang (Korean chili pepper paste). Before taking a bite, it’s a must that you mix all of the ingredients thoroughly to create a nice balance of flavors and textures.

  • Ramyun

An instant noodle dish known for its spicy varieties, Korean ramyun comes in instant noodle packets with seasoning packets included. While you can easily prepare ramyun by adding hot water, you can level it up by adding vegetables, meat, or seafood to your bowl.

  • Kimchi

They say no Korean meal is complete without a serving of kimchi. A side dish made from fermented vegetables like napa cabbage and Korean radishes, kimchi is seasoned with salt, garlic, ginger, chili flakes, and other spices. After mixing the ingredients together, it’s left to ferment for days or several weeks to achieve the tangy and spicy flavor kimchi is known for.

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China

China is home to a rich culinary heritage highlighted by must-try regional cuisines.

  • Peking Duck

Known for its crispy skin, tender meat, and savory flavor, the Peking duck is air-dried before being roasted in a closed oven to achieve golden-brown skin. It’s often served with thin pancakes or steamed buns, along with condiments like hoisin sauce.

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  • Kung Pao Chicken

A spicy, stir-fried dish made with diced chicken, peanuts, and vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini, and a savory sauce, Kung Pao Chicken is a popular choice in Chinese restaurants because of how it balances spicy, savory, and sweet notes.

  • Mapo Tofu

This Sichuan dish is known for soft tofu cubes cooked in a savory sauce made from fermented bean paste, chili bean paste, garlic, ginger, and Sichuan peppercorns. Often enjoyed as a main dish, Mapo Tofu is garnished with chopped green onions or cilantro, and is often served with rice.

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Indonesia

Indonesia boasts various regional cuisines, each reflecting indigenous culture and foreign influences.

  • Nasi Goreng

Considered the national dish, Nasi Goreng is a satisfying fried rice made with sweet soy sauce, garlic, shallots, fried eggs, chicken, shrimp, and vegetables. It can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

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  • Chicken Satay

A popular street food, Chicken Satay features skewered and grilled chicken marinated in a blend of turmeric, coriander, cumin, and lemongrass. Often served with peanut sauce, the chicken is grilled over an open flame or charcoal to achieve a tender meat with a smoky flavor.

  • Beef Rendang

A slow-cooked beef stew simmered in coconut milk and a blend of aromatic spices like garlic, lemongrass, ginger, and turmeric, Beef Rendang is cooked over low heat for several hours until the sauce thickens, and the beef is tender.

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Vietnam

Vietnam’s iconic dishes are renowned for its fresh and fragrant flavours that have captivated taste buds around the world.

  • Pho

Served in street stalls, restaurants, and households, Pho is a soup dish consisting of broth, rice noodles, herbs, and meat. It’s simple yet flavorful, and often garnished with fresh herbs, lime, chili, and bean sprouts.

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  • Banh Mi

A filling Vietnamese sandwich consisting of a French baguette filled with grilled or roasted meat, pickled vegetables, cilantro, chili peppers, and mayonnaise.

  • Spring Rolls

These fresh spring rolls feature ingredients such as shrimp, pork, vermicelli noodles, lettuce, mint, and cilantro wrapped in translucent rice paper. Often served as a snack or appetizer, they are accompanied by peanut or hoisin dipping sauce.

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This Week's Events Across Asia

Asia/ Delish/ Reviews
Here Are Six Spring Delights to Try Across the Region
BABYMONSTER 1 Photo by sakura.co/Website

Spring season in Asia brings in an array of seasonal delights that celebrate renewal and fresh, delicate flavors. As nature shakes off the last bits of the bitter cold, markets start to fill up with tender greens, young bamboo shoots, and fragrant herbs incorporated in dishes that truly capture the essence of the season. 

From Sakura-themed desserts in Japan and fresh salads in Thailand to the seasonal banchan in South Korea and the light and savory dishes from China, here are some of our favorite spring dishes across Asia that reflect the region’s deep connection to nature and the ever-changing seasons. 

Chinese Spring Pancakes

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Also known as Chun Bing, Peking Duck Pancakes, or Mandarin Pancakes, these light and soft pancakes are traditional food for celebrating the beginning of spring and are an essential element of the classic Peking duck meal. 

It’s usually eaten with savory mains such as duck, bean sprout stir-fry, and Moo Shu Pork, alongside vegetable side dishes like cucumbers and spring onions folded inside them. They are made from wheat flower and water and are cooked in a steamer or a pan. These pancakes aren’t sweet like the Western stacks we know and love, but they sure make a fantastic base for our savory favorites! 

Som Tum

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Spring brings in fresh produce, and salads are the best way to enjoy them is at their most fresh form, so we just have to include one of our favorites!

Originally from Thailand, Som Tum can be enjoyed all year round, but it can be particularly refreshing during the spring months. Also known as Green Papaya salad, Som Tum is made of shredded papaya salad, tomatoes, green beans, and peanuts tossed in a tangy lime dressing consisting of lime juice, tamarind paste, fish sauce, and palm sugar. It’s bursting with sweet and sour flavors, a signature of Thai cuisine, and definitely a great appetizer or a meal on its own! 

This salad recipe also has variations, such as the Som Tum Mamuang, which is made from strips of green mango instead of papaya. It’s equally delicious and offers a tart and slightly crunchy base. 

Laksa Nyonya

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This dish is popular in Malaysian cuisine, described as the perfect blend of Malay and Chinese cuisine, creating something new and unique. 

Laksa Nyonya is basically a rice noodle dish made with a broth of coconut milk and spices, hard-boiled eggs, bean sprouts, tofu puffs, and a variety of seafood — usually shrimp or blood cockles. If you want a little kick, just a little chili paste on top would do the trick! 

The Peranakan people, who are the descendants of the first Chinese immigrants in Malaysia, introduced many traditional flavors to Malay cuisine, which gave birth to this dish. “Nyonya” is the term for Peranakan women and Peranakan cuisine. If you think about it, the name fits considering women are symbols of light and life — and so is spring! 

Nyonya is available all over Malaysia, with origins in Melaka. There, it’s merely dubbed as Melaka Laksa

Fresh Vietnamese Spring Rolls

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These traditional spring rolls are well-loved across the region and packed with fresh veggies, herbs, and slices of pork or shrimp. The dish’s contents often vary, with some having only vegetables or having thin rice noodles folded into thin rice paper, but one thing they all have in common is that it’s a refreshing meal perfect for the season!

The spring rolls are traditionally served with a sweet and savory peanut or hoisin sauce, but it all comes down to preference. There are a variety of sauces to choose from, such as nuoc cham, which is a Vietnamese fish sauce vinaigrette made from a combination of lime juice, fish sauce, garlic, sugar, and chili peppers. And speaking of chili, spicy lovers can also try dipping it in sweet and spicy chili sauce. 

Spring Namul

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Banchan is an essential part of a Korean meal. If you don’t know what banchan is, these are the small side dishes served alongside the mains. Namul is a traditional vegetable dish in South Korea that refers to a variety of green side dishes. These edible vegetables are served raw, blanched, fried, sautéed, or dried and are often seasoned with various condiments such as soy sauce, sesame oil, sesame seeds, vinegar, garlic, and gochujang (Korean spicy chili paste). The main point of namul, however, is for it to be seasoned lightly and allow the raw, fresh flavor of the vegetables to shine through. 

It's a great side dish for barbecues, serving as a palate cleanser that adds a bit of freshness to oily dishes like samgyupsal. Some of the most popular namul dishes include Sukju Namul (seasoned mung bean sprout dish), Sigeumchi Namul (Spinach side dish), Musaengchae (spicy radish dish), and Hobak Namul (Zucchini side dish). 

Sakura Mochi

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Spring is more than just fresh vegetables and savory pancakes, and we couldn’t miss the chance to add a sweet treat to this list. 

Mochi is a Japanese sweet rice cake and is popularly known in its ice cream and donut forms, which feature a variety of flavors and colors. In Japan, the arrival of spring is welcomed with a splash of pink as the delicate Sakura blooms (Cherry Blossoms) cover the cities in pink and white confetti-like petals. It’s a sight to behold, for sure, and to add to the excitement of the season, several merchants in Japan release Sakura-themed souvenirs and treats, including Sakura Mochi!

This traditional spring treat features a sweet glutinous rice cake filled with red bean paste wrapped in an edible pickled cherry blossom leaf. The Sakura scent mixes with the chewy and soft rice dessert (which is also light pink, btw!) and is the epitome of spring in every bite! 

You can find them in most convenience stores and supermarkets in Japan, and they are perfect to bring along your hanami (flower-viewing) picnics! There are also specialty stores that sell them, such as Chomeiji, a centuries-old confectionary founded by the father of Sakura mochi in 1717.  

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Asia/ Delish/ Happenings
S.Pellegrino Serves Up a Taste of Asia’s Culinary Future Ahead of SPYCA
S Pelligrino Luncheon 1 Photo by S. Pellegrino

On Mar. 25, 2025, S.Pellegrino brought the future of gastronomy to the table with an exclusive luncheon at the Michelin-starred Jungsik Seoul, ahead of the S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy (SPYCA) 2024-25 Grand Finale

The event gathered top culinary talent — including young chefs, mentors, and judges — for a multi-course dining experience created by ten renowned chefs, and a lively panel discussion on how Asia is transforming into a global culinary powerhouse.

Now in its sixth edition, SPYCA’s journey began with 15 regional finals held between September 2024 and January 2025. The winners will head to Milan this October to compete for the title of the World’s Best Young Chef.

The luncheon celebrated not only their talent but also the collaborative spirit of the academy. The meal kicked off with multiple rounds of amuse-bouche by six senior chefs who previously served as SPYCA mentors and judges. 

Singapore’s Junior Sous Chef William Yee of Labyrinth, winner of the Acqua Panna Connection in Gastronomy Award, followed with a refined first course. Korea’s Jaeho Kim of Andaz Seoul Gangnam presented a soulful hot starter inspired by his family’s heritage. 

The spotlight then turned to Hong Kong’s Ardy Ferguson, who won the title Asia regional winner for his twist on the Indonesian dishes ‘Nasi Tumpeng and ‘Sate Padang,’ with Hong Kong-style duck. Guests at the luncheon were treated to an adaptation of this winning dish, Archipelago Celebration — which pays homage to his Indonesian roots while highlighting Hong Kong’s rich culinary landscape. 

The meal ended on a sweet note with a dessert by host chef and SPYCA Juror alumnus Jungsik Yim.

Richie Lin
Courtesy of S. Pellegrino

Reflecting on the young chefs’ creativity, SPYCA Asia Regional Judge Chef Richie Lin noted, “It won’t be long before they rise as global ambassadors of Asian cuisine.”

For more information on the grand finale, visit SPYCA on their official website, or Instagram and Facebook. 

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Asia/ Delish/ Happenings
Bangkok’s Gaggan is 2025’s Best Restaurant in Asia
Gaggan Photo by Gaggan Anand Restaurant/Facebook

All is fair in love and fine dining. Asia’s Top 50 Best Restaurants 2025 has finally been revealed, and Bangkok’s Gaggan reigns supreme in the region. 

Sponsored by S.Pellegrino & Acqua Panna, the prestigious ceremony was held in collaboration with host destination partners Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (MAFRA) and the Seoul Metropolitan Government for the second consecutive year. The esteemed ranking showcases remarkable dining establishments from 16 cities across the region and is curated from votes by the Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants Academy made up of food writers and critics, chefs, restaurateurs, and regional culinary experts.  

Chef Gaggan Anand’s eponymous restaurant in Bangkok rose two spots from last year, now claiming the top position as The Best Restaurant in Asia

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After multiple iterations of his Bangkok restaurant, the celebrated chef unveiled a reimagined version of his culinary concept in a new location in late 2019. Four years later, the restaurant returned to the prestigious Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants list and has steadily risen to the top, reaffirming Chef Gaggan’s reputation for creative excellence and boundary-pushing gastronomy. 

Gaggan features a blend of progressive Indian cuisine with influences from Japan, France, and Thailand. It’s signature 20+ course menu is a masterful interplay of taste, texture and technique, and are presented with immersive, interactive elements that unfold like a theatrical performance enhanced by natural and biodynamic wine pairings, pyrotechnics, and even a playlist. Chef Gaggan’s 14-seat counter overlooks an open kitchen, which places guests at the heart of the creative process, ultimately transforming communal dining into an unforgettable experience.

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Bangkok and Tokyo lead the list with nine entries. Gaggan (No.1) is followed by Nusura, which retains its position at No. 6 as Chef Thitid ‘Ton’ Tassanakajohn pays homage to his heritage by putting a creative spin on ancient family recipes. Meanwhile, Potong ranks at No. 13 with its progressive Thai-Chinese cuisine from Chef-Owner Pichaya ‘Pam’ Soontornyanakij — winner of Asia’s Best Female Chef Award in 2024. 

Other notable entries from Bangkok are Sorn (No.16), Le Du (No. 20), and newbie Gaggan at Louis Vuitton (No. 31), which is a collaboration between Chef Gaggan’s creativity and the luxury high fashion brand. The restaurant’s Pastry Chef Dej Kewkacha was also awarded Asia’s Best Pastry Chef, sponsored by Valrhona, for his exquisite modern twist on classic desserts. There’s also Baan Tepa at No. 44 with Chef Chudaree ‘Tam’ Debhakam earning the title Asia’s Best Female Chef 2025. Lastly, educational restaurant Samrub Samrub Thai rounds up the list at No. 47.

Hong Kong takes seven spots this year, led by The Chairman at No. 2, which continues to redefine contemporary Cantonese cuisine. It’s followed by Wing at No. 3, with Chef-Owner Vicky Cheng securing the peer-voted Inedit Damm Chefs' Choice Award

Also standing for Hong Kong is Caprice (No. 18) which rose fourteen spots, while the Neighborhood ranks at No. 21. Mono secures a spot at No. 24 and Estro debuts at No. 32 where Naples-born Chef Antimo Maria Merone breathes new life into classic Neapolitan cuisine with a diverse wine cellar stocked with Italian selections. Completing the city’s representation on the list is Ando (No. 41), which offers a Spanish-Japanese fusion cuisine. 

Chudaree ‘Tam’ Debhakam
Photo from Instagram/@theworlds50best
Vicky Cheng
Photo from Instagram/@theworlds50best

Singapore also boasts seven entries on the list this year with Odette (No .7) clinching the title as The Best Restaurant in Singapore. The French fine dining by Chef Julien Royer has consistently ranked in the top 10 since 2017. Following closely is Les Amis at No. 28, Labyrinth (No. 37) with its modernized classic Singaporean dishes, Burnt Ends (No. 38), Meta (No. 39), Seroja (No. 40), and Euphoria (No. 48).

A notable rising star on the list is Macau’s Chef Tam's Seasons, which rose a remarkable 40 spots to No. 9 this year, winning the Highest Climber Award, sponsored by Lee Kum Kee. The restaurant in Wynn Palace showcases refined Cantonese cuisine with the finest seasonal produce amid opulent surroundings. 

The ceremony also awarded the late Margarita Forés, a celebrated culinary figure from the Philippines, with the Woodford Reserve Icon Award 2025.

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“This year’s ranking presents a remarkable tapestry of dining establishments across 16 cities, with seven new entries showcasing the exceptional talent and innovative spirit that define Asia’s culinary landscape,” said William Drew, Director of Content at Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants. 

“Heartfelt congratulations to all the featured restaurants, particularly Chef Gaggan Anand and his team at Gaggan, who have impressively secured the title of The Best Restaurant in Asia once again. Their commitment to culinary excellence and boundary-pushing gastronomy has firmly established them as a premier dining destination in the region.”

To see the complete list and individual awardees, click here.

Follow The World's 50 Best Restaurants on Facebook, X (Formerly Twitter), and Instagram for updates. 

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Asia/ Delish/ Reviews
National Cocktail Day: Where to Find the Best Cocktails in Asia
National Cocktail Day Photo by Wing Lei Bar

National Cocktail Day on March 24 is the perfect excuse to gather your friends to sip on some tipples and have a good time. Celebrate the day with perfectly crafted drinks from some of Asia's top bars.

Asia's vibrant bar scene offers some of the best cocktail experiences in the world. From Hong Kong's innovative mixology hubs to Bangkok's world-class speakeasies and Manila's hidden gems, there's no shortage of places across the continent to choose from. 

Continue reading as we highlight some of the top spots across the region for you! 

001 Bar, Hong Kong

Cocktail
001 / @001.hk

Tucked away behind an unmarked door in Tai Kwun, 001 is a hidden surprise in Hong Kong's cocktail scene. This intimate bar is known for its old-school décor and innovative cocktail menu

With a focus on quality ingredients and craftsmanship, this speakeasy continuously draws in cocktail lovers and connoisseurs. Some of its signature drinks include the iconic Earl Grey Marteani and seasonal drinks that are not always on their menu, such as the LAPHROAIG PROJECT- a smoky whisky-based cocktail.

Follow 001 Bar's Instagram for their latest updates. 

Sugarhall, Singapore

Cocktail
Sugarhall

Transport yourself to a tropical sunny beach at Sugarhall, a cocktail bar and restaurant in Singapore dedicated to showcasing the versatility of rum. The bar reopened in 2022 after a four year hiatus under the Jigger & Pony Group

Their Cocktail Getaway menu features a mix of classic rum-based cocktails and creative house creations, highlighting the Passion Fruit Daiquiri with 4 YO aged Bacardí rum and green tea and Iced Mojito with Diplomático Planas rum and sugarcane ice. 

Check out Sugarhall's website and Instagram to learn more. 

The Curator, Manila

Cocktail
The Curator / @thecurator_

Having awarded The Best Bar in the Philippines and No. 33 of Asia's 50 Best Bars in 2024 is The Curator, a highly regarded speciality coffee and cocktail bar in Manila. 

By day, The Curator runs as a coffee shop. By night, the bar transforms into a world-class cocktail bar crafting fun, high-quality cocktails. The cocktail menu focuses on premium ingredients and precise mixology techniques, featuring creative infusions and interesting flavor pairings

By bringing its Filippino hospitality and commitment to craftsmanship, The Curator is one of the bars you should not miss if you are stopping by Manila. 

Follow The Curator's Instagram to find out more. 

Lennon's, Bangkok

Cocktail
Lennon's, Rosewood

Located on the top floor of Rosewood Bangkok, Lennon's is a vinyl-inspired speakeasy-style bar. The bar features over 6,000 vinyl records, allowing guests to browse and request to play music of their choice. 

Lennon's elevates its cocktail program with its signature "Vinyl Menu," a nostalgic collection inspired by the defining sounds of the 1980s and 1990s. It features 12 signature cocktails where each drink is inspired by a legendary song, such as You Are The Sunshine of My Life by Stevie Wonder and Say My Name by Destiny's Child

Check out Lennon's website and Instagram for more details. 

Spiffy Dapper, Singapore

Cocktail
Spiffy Dapper / @spiffydapper

If you love bold, experimental drinks, Spiffy Dapper is the place for you. Located on River Valley Road in Singapore, the bar incorporates house-infused spirits, exotic ingredients, and unexpected flavor combinations

Some of their must-try cocktails are Vesper- a pandan-based drink with dill oil and pickled cucumber and Dew Dropper- a plum-infused gin cocktail with lemongrass and shiso leaf. The Smash Burger by Wicked Goods Singapore are not to be missed as well!  

Other than their cocktails, The Spiffy Dapper is also recognized for its gin collection. They also offer a Gin & Tonic workshop for those who want to perfect their G&T craft! 

Visit Spiffy Dapper's website and Instagram for more information. 

Dio Cafe Bar, Hong Kong

Cocktail
Dio Cafe Bar / @dio.cafebar

Dio Cafe Bar is a cozy, stylish cocktail bar in Central and West Kowloon of Hong Kong, known for its Cantonese-inspired drinks. Staying true to its name, Dio operates as a cafe during the day and a speakeasy-style bar at night. 

Signature cocktails at Dio highlight unique flavor pairings and Asian-inspired ingredients, which often also complements the seasonality of the year. Some highlights include Yellow Wine Crab Sour- a cocktail created based on the famous Chinese Shaoxing wine and Typhoon Shelter-style Shrimp cocktail, inspired by the iconic Typhoon Shelter stir-fry seasoning.  

Connect with Dio Cafe Bar's Instagram for more details. 

Wing Lei Bar, Macau

Cocktail
Wing Lei Bar

Wing Lei Bar at Wynn Palace Hotel in Macau has recently undergone a transformation, redefining the hotel bar experience with a refreshed look and cocktail program, spearheaded by Head Mixologist Mark Lloyd

Debuted on March 12, the bar's cocktail menu showcases 12 reimagined classics on four classic cocktail styles (sours, stirred, classics, and alternatini) using handcrafted infusions and repurposed ingredients from the hotel. For those looking for something specific, a bespoke experience is also available through the mixologist's unique four-question approach

Visit Wing Lei Bar's Instagram for more details.

The Back Room, Manila

Cocktail
The Back Room / @backroomph

Hidden within Shangri-La The Fort, The Back Room is a 1920s-inspired speakeasy in Manila, decorated in sophisticated, Prohibition-era aesthetics. This bar specializes in gin-based cocktails and also features an extensive collection of spirits, including its in-house distilled Bee's Knees gin that is made out of five key ingredients native to the Philippines such as dalandan, malunggay, manzanilla, sampaguita, and luyang dilaw.

The Back Room's menu highlights reimagined classics and seasonal innovations, including The Vault- a cocktail made with their Bee's Knees gin with tamarind and green mango reduction and Mezcales 1619 that is crafted with Mezcal, kimchi, and lemon sherbet. 

Learn more about The Back Room through their website and Instagram

Penrose, Kuala Lumpur

Interior
Penrose

Opened in 2022, Penrose is a cocktail bar that quickly become a favorite amongst locals and expats both as they were awarded No. 8 of Asia's 50 Best Bars in 2024, while earning the Nikka Highest Climber Award for its rise in rankings. 

The bar's philosophy centers on five different principles: alcohol, flavour, taste, body and dilution, resulting in a mneu that is both elevated and thoughtful. Some of their signature cocktails include Ume Fuji- a Japanese highball and Rum Musa- a rum-based sour. 

Visit Penrose's Instagram for more information! 

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Asia/ Delish/ Happenings
Starbucks and Peanuts Brew Up Kindness with New Snoopy-Themed Collection
Starbucks joe Photo by Starbucks Asia Pacific

Starbucks and Peanuts are joining hands for a feel-good collaboration that celebrates kindness, coffee, and community. Starting Mar. 27, 2025, Starbucks stores across the Asia-Pacific will roll out an exclusive collection, featuring Peanuts gang and a new Snoopy persona, Joe Kind Snoopy. These special-edition drinks and adorable merchandise are available exclusively at Starbucks.

On the menu are three Peanuts-inspired beverages, each topped with a Joe Kind Snoopy chocolate. Sip on the Joe Kind Snoopy Chocolate and Caramel Oatmilk Frappuccino® Blended Beverage, a soothing blend of chocolate, caramel, and vanilla, or opt for the Joe Kind Snoopy Chocolate and Caramel Oatmilk Latte and Iced Chocolate and Caramel Latte, both drizzled with rich caramel and chocolate over a smooth espresso base — perfect for sharing with a friend.

Frappucino
Courtesy of Starbucks Asia Pacific

The limited-edition merchandise line is just as charming, highlighting affectionate moments between the Peanuts gang and Joe Kind Snoopy in the form of reusable cups, tumblers, ceramic mugs, and tote bags adorned with Snoopy, Woodstock, and uplifting messages that inspire small acts of kindness. For a personal touch, customize your own clothing or bags with Starbucks' newly released Peanuts Joe Kind Snoopy Patch Collection.

Tote bag
Courtesy of Starbucks Asia Pacific

Timed to coincide with Starbucks’ annual Global Month of Good in April, the collaboration encourages simple gestures that spark joy — whether it’s sharing a coffee or offering a smile. 

Throughout the month, Starbucks partners (employees) will volunteer with local nonprofits, with the company donating 100 meals to local beneficiaries for every volunteer hour spent on hunger relief efforts.

The Peanuts x Starbucks collab is a sweet reminder that kindness never goes out of style. To celebrate this, Starbucks has whipped up a delightful Spotify playlist packed with classic Peanuts tunes and feel-good songs that celebrate togetherness and community. You can dive into the playlist here

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For more information, visit Starbucks on their website, Instagram, Facebook, and X (Formerly Twitter).

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Asia/ Delish/ Happenings
2025 Top 50 Best Pizzerias in the Asia-Pacific Region Revealed!
Pizza Photo by ANTO Pizza E Aperitivi

Looking for the best slice? The 50 Top Pizza list has just been revealed, ranking the best pizzerias in the Asia-Pacific region. This year, Tokyo takes the crown as it takes the top two spots on the list!

The ceremony was held last Mar. 10, 2025 at the Istituto Italiano di Cultura in Tokyo, where The Pizza Bar on 38th took first place for 50 Top Pizza Asia – Pacific 2025. Fun fact: It’s also the smallest pizzeria in the world, with only eight seats, and is led by Daniele Cason, executive chef of the Mandarin Oriental in Tokyo

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Second place was awarded to RistoPizza by Napoli sta ca by Giuseppe Errichiello in the Azabudai Hills Store in Tokyo, and closing the podium was Fiata by Salvatore Fiata from Hong Kong.

Two Southeast Asian cities took fourth and fifth place: Massilia in Bangkok, led by Luca Appino and Michele Fernando, and Crosta in Manila by Ingga S. Cabangon Chua, Thomas Woudwyk, and Yuichi Ito. The Philippine pizzeria shared the spot with Melbourne-based SHOP225 by Lorenzo Tro. 

chef Giuseppe Errichiello
Photo from Instagram/@50toppizza
chef Salvatore Fiata
Photo from Instagram/@50toppizza
chefs Luca Appino and Michele Fernando
Photo from Instagram/@50toppizza
chefs Ingga S. Cabangon Chua, Thomas Woudwyk, and Yuichi Ito
Photo from Instagram/@50toppizza

Singapore and Hong Kong were deemed emerging destinations on the pizza map with ANTO by Master Pizzaiolo Antonio Brancato ranking 13th and was given the Monte Bussan Award, also known as “One to Watch 2025.” Meanwhile, Hong Kong has four pizzerias, making it one of the most represented cities on the list, followed by Bangkok and Manila with three.

Other notable special awards include the Best Fried Food (Il Fritturista – Oleificio Zucchi Award) which was given to Singapore’s Fortuna; the Pizza of the Year (Latteria Sorrentina Award) for Norma not Normal by Massilia in Bangkok; the Best Dessert List (Latteria San Salvatore Award) given to L’OLIVA in Bangkok; and the Best Cocktail List (Sei Bellissimi Award) which was awarded to Hong Kong’s Fiata by Salvatore Fiata. 

The top 13 pizzerias automatically earn a spot among the 100 Best Pizzerias in the World and will be attending the Teatro Mercadante event in Naples on Sept. 8, 2025. You can view the complete list here.

Awarded globally and regionally, the 50 Top Pizza list is like the Michelin Guide of pizzerias. It was founded by a group of Italian journalists in 2017 to celebrate the very best pizzas. In Italy, pizzas are an integral part of social gatherings and is a food beloved by many that requires excellent techniques and skills, as well as enduring patience and dedication to achieve the right consistency of dough and ingredients for the perfect bite. The guide is released annually based on “pizza inspectors’” assessment.

2025’s highly followed awards ceremony was broadcast live on the network’s social media channels and was presented by Imma Romano and welcomed by His Excellency Gianluigi Benedetti, Ambassador of Italy in Japan. The next ceremony will take place on Apr. 10, 2025 in Brazil, which will recognize the best pizzerias of the year in Latin America. 

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For updates, stay tuned on their website, Facebook, and Instagram pages. 

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Asia/ Delish/ Happenings
Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants Awards Returns to Seoul on Mar. 25
Photo 1 Photo by GHC Asia

It’s the time of the year again. Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants Awards 2025, sponsored by S.Pellegrino & Acqua Panna, will be unveiling the finest dining experiences in the region at the highly anticipated ceremony in Seoul on Mar. 25

Ahead of the official countdown and ceremony, a series of exclusive dining events hosted at Seoul’s top restaurants will take place from Mar. 22 to 26. The line-up for the 50 Best Signature Sessions features renowned chefs from across the globe, including both past award winners and rising stars, who will collaborate with some of the capital’s most exquisite restaurants to offer one-time-only dining experiences. 

Some participating restaurants currently ranked on Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2024 list include The Chairman (No. 4), Sorn (No. 11), Mingles (No. 13), Baan Tepa (No. 42), Chef Tam's Seasons (No. 49), Born & Bred (No. 64), and Alla Prima (No. 91). Additionally, Boragó which is currently ranked 29th on the World’s Best 50 Restaurants 2024 list is also included in the line-up.  

The exciting sessions will offer special menus that celebrate a dynamic exchange of culinary perspectives, showcasing the creativity, craftsmanship, and passion that define each partnership. 

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Reservations for all the experiences will open at 3 PM (Seoul time) on Mar. 6 via Catch Table. This event is a rare opportunity to witness collaborations between international and local talent, so guests are highly encouraged to book early as there is limited seating available.

Here’s the complete line-up of experiences you can look forward to: 

Born & Bred x Chef Tam's Seasons

Chef
Chef Tam Kwok Fung | Photo from GHC Asia

Date: Mar. 22 (Dinner)

Hosting Restaurant: Born & Bred

Host Chef: Kyung Hwan Min

Featured Restaurant: Chef Tam's Seasons

Featured Chef: Tam Kwok Fung

Evett x Boragó

Dining hall
Evett Restaurant | Photo from GHC Asia

Date: Mar. 23 (Dinner)

Hosting Restaurant: Evett

Host Chef: Joseph Lidgerwood

Featured Restaurant: Boragó

Featured Chef: Rodolfo Guzmán

Mingles x The Chairman x Sorn x Alla Prima

chefs
The Chairman Restaurant | Photo from GHC Asia

Date: Mar. 23 (Dinner) 

Hosting Restaurant: Mingles

Host Chef: Mingoo Kang

Featured Restaurant:  The Chairman x Sorn x Alla Prima

Featured Chef: Danny Yip, Kwok Keung Tung, Supaksorn ‘Ice’ Jongsiri, and Kim Jin-hyuk

Soul x Baan Tepa

Chef
Chefs Hee Eun Kim, Daehyun Yoon, and Chudaree ‘Tam’ Debhakam | Photo from Website/theworlds50best.com

Date: Mar. 24 (Lunch)

Hosting Restaurant: Soul

Host Chefs: Hee Eun Kim and Daehyun Yoon

Featured Restaurant: Baan Tepa

Featured Chef: Chudaree ‘Tam’ Debhakam

For more information, click here. You can also follow along World’s 50 Best on Facebook, X (Formerly Twitter), and Instagram for updates. 

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