The Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2026 awards wrapped up on Wednesday evening (25 March) at the Kerry Hotel in Hong Kong, marking the event’s 14th edition. This year’s list brought a mix of expected names and fresh highlights across the region’s dining scene.
Hong Kong dominated the top of the ranking, with The Chairman taking first place, followed by Wing in second. Both restaurants showcase contemporary Cantonese cuisine and reflect the city’s growing influence in Asia’s culinary landscape.
Amid the regional heavyweights, Indonesia also made a notable appearance. Two restaurants, August in Jakarta and Locavore NXT in Ubud, secured spots on the list, highlighting the country’s evolving dining scene.
August ranked 42nd and was also named the Best Restaurant in Indonesia for 2026. The Jakarta-based restaurant, founded in 2021 by Hans Christian and Budi Cahyadi, offers an intimate dining experience with just 50 seats. Its warm, elegant setting stands out in the middle of the capital’s fast-paced environment.
Despite its relatively small size, August continues to build a strong reputation. The restaurant also appeared on last year’s list, placing 49th. Its rise this year reflects steady progress.
Hong Kong Hosts Historic Edition of the Awards
Alongside August, Locavore NXT in Ubud, Bali, also returned to the list. The restaurant ranked 44th this year. Opened in 2023, Locavore NXT continues the legacy of the original Locavore while pushing a more experimental and sustainability-driven concept.
Its inclusion signals growing international attention towards Bali’s modern dining scene, which blends local ingredients with progressive techniques.
This year’s ceremony also marked a milestone for the awards. For the first time, Hong Kong hosted the event, reinforcing its position as one of Asia’s leading food destinations.
Hong Kong Tourism Board Chairman Peter Lam welcomed the recognition. He said hosting the event reflects the rapid growth of the city’s culinary industry.
The presence of more than 200 restaurants featured in major guides, including the MICHELIN Guide Hong Kong Macau 2026 and The Black Pearl Restaurant Guide, further strengthens its reputation.