The organisers of Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants announce that Saga Prefecture in Japan will host the next edition of the annual event program and awards ceremony, which will take place on 24th March, 2020. The region’s most respected chefs and influential restaurateurs, together with leading industry figures and international media, will gather in the city of Takeo for the announcement of the Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2020 list, sponsored by S.Pellegrino & Acqua Panna, as well as a series of special awards.
The awards ceremony and a comprehensive event program will showcase Saga Prefecture’s rich culinary culture, exceptional craftsmanship and local agriculture. Located on Japan’s Kyushu island, the area’s proximity to neighbouring Asian countries have made it a key trading destination and a hub for cultural exchanges for centuries. Continuing this tradition, Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants will welcome celebrated chefs and gastronomic talents from around the continent to experience Japanese culture, explore culinary trends, discover native ingredients and foster a spirit of open communication.
The move to Japan marks a contrast to the bright lights of Macao, Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants’ home for the past two years. Both destinations provide memorable examples of the continent’s gastronomy, but offer
different approaches to restaurants and cuisine. Saga’s access to fine seafood, artisanal preparation techniques and a bucolic landscape ripe with produce make it the perfect foil to showcase two sides of Asia’s wide-ranging food scene.
William Drew, Director of Content for Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants, says: “We are thrilled that Saga Prefecture will host the 2020 edition of Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants, sponsored by S.Pellegrino & Acqua Panna. Steeped in tradition and nature, this area of Japan is home to rich culinary heritage and agricultural provenance. Attendees at this year’s awards ceremony will have an opportunity to visit idyllic rural destinations and experience a taste of Japan in its most authentic form.”
The 2019 list of Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants spanned 12 countries and featured 10 new restaurants, including a first-time entry from Malaysia. At the awards ceremony, Odette in Singapore took top honours, ousting four-time winner Gaggan from the No.1 spot and becoming the first Singapore restaurant to claim the coveted title of The Best Restaurant in Asia, sponsored by S. Pellegrino & Acqua Panna.
Building on the success of previous years, the 2020 program will include a new edition of #50BestTalks, as well as a series of immersive food and culture expeditions. Scheduled for Monday, 23rd March 2020, the one-day #50BestTalks forum will bring together Asia’s most influential chefs and culinary leaders to exchange topical ideas and discuss emerging food trends in the region.
