The World's 50 Best Restaurant List is possibly one of the most controversial lists that continuously creates divided opinions and debates in the gastronomic world every year. Whilst some disagree on the voting system, others believe that the choice is subjective and therefore the classification of “best” is futile. Some have even gone as far as saying that the list is a mere marketing ploy by a UK magazine. What is certain, however, is that the list has been gaining more attention each year. So what’s my take on this list? I think it’s simple: If one could place reliance on a guide that determines who receives 3 stars by 7 anonymous inspectors for the entire Japan, a country that currently has more 3 stars than France, why would it be strange to rely on a list that’s based on 800+ experienced foodies across the world? Therefore, rather than dwelling on the possible flaws of the list, I’ve decided to embrace it for what it has to offer.
Below are my experiences on the 2012 World's 50 Best Restaurants over the last few years:
1. Noma - Copenhagen, Denmark (2012)
2. El Celler de Can Roca - Girona, Spain (2011)
3. Mugaritz - San Sebastián, Spain (2011)
4. D.O.M. - São Paulo, Brazil (2009)
5. Osteria Francescana - Modena, Italy (2010)
6. Per Se - New York, USA (2011)
7. Alinea - Chicago, USA (2010)
8. Arzak - San Sebastián, Spain (2009)
9. Dinner by Heston Blumenthal - London, UK (2011)
10. Eleven Madison Park - New York, USA (2011)
11. Steirereck - Vienna, Austria (2010)
12. L'Atelier Saint-Germain de Joël Robuchon - Paris, France (2011)
13. The Fat Duck - Bray, UK (2012)
14. The Ledbury - London, UK (2011)
15. Le Chateaubriand - Paris, France (2010)
16. L'Arpège - Paris, France (2009)
17. Pierre Gagnaire - Paris, France (2011)
18. L'Astrance - Paris, France (2009)
19. Le Bernardin - New York, USA (2009)