Whether you’re looking for a place that serves top-notch cuisine or want to take your tastebuds on a free-wheeling adventure, travel website TripAdvisor has the scoop on the best fine dining restaurants in Asia with the release of its latest Travellers’ Choice Awards. The names were whittled down based on travellers’ reviews and opinions and an algorithm that determined the quality and quantity of said reviews across a 12-month period.
Here, we highlight why these dining establishments are a must-visit:
The space: Situated near the Ping River, the restaurant boasts floor-to-ceiling glass windows and a sleek, contemporary vibe. There’s also a spacious garden to lounge in if you prefer to dine alfresco.
Why visit: To sample its exquisite French dishes with a modern Asian flavour. Popular items include the braised beef cheeks in red wine sauce and the fettucine with truffle cream.
The space: An airy, intimate establishment with clean Scandivanian fixtures, it’s a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of crowded Ubud streets.
Why visit: Using only fresh produce from their in-house garden, its modern European offerings are beautifully plated and heavily utilise Indonesian ingredients in creative ways. Also a highlight: The inventive cocktails by resident mixologist Raka Ambarawan, who infuses premium spirits with local herbs and spices.
See: An insider’s guide to the best restaurants and cafes in Ubud, Bali
The space: Clean, modern design elements feature prominently in this restaurant that’s built in within a beautifully restored ancient temple close to The Forbidden City.
Why visit: Offering contemporary European haute cuisine with French influences (try the truffle and mushroom risotto and butter-poached lobster), the restaurant also serves complimentary champagne and an assortment of homemade breads. Another bonus: Great service.
The space: Located in a three-storey heritage shophouse at Tanjong Pagar Road, the 30-seater restaurant interior has a stylish, refined air.
Why visit: The six-year-old fine dining restaurant is helmed by French-trained chef Andre Chiang, the former head chef of three-starred Michelin restaurant Le Jardin des Sens in France. You’ll dig its Mediterranean-influenced cuisine, which features star dishes like a warmed foie gras jelly served with a black truffle coulis.
The space: A cosy, non-pretentious Teppanyaki joint with small counter tables.
Why visit: Known for its melt-in-your-mouth Kobe beef served teppanyaki-style, seats are reportedly difficult to book here – so you know they’re in hot demand.
The space: Located on the 38th floor of the Mandarin Oriental Tokyo, the sleek, contemporary restaurant slash bar gives you a great view of the city skyline.
Why visit: The restaurant offers an interactive molecular gastronomical experience, where you can watch the chef prepare the most delectable bite-sized delicacies over the course of two hours. There are only two sittings a day with eight guests per timeslot, so book ahead.
The space: Housed in a beautiful garden courtyard in a Thai Bali-style setting, the restaurant has an unquestionably romantic ambience.
Why visit: The French-inspired dishes on the menu use the freshest imported meats and premium cuts, and also stocks an impressive array of over 300 spirits and gins.
The space: With a transparent ceiling that allows you to stargaze while dining in the enclosed lounge, the restaurant also opens up to an outdoor terrace with four gazebos leading to the hotel pool.
Why visit: Boasting 21 dining “ateliers”, their international buffet spread showcases dishes from various cultures (Chinese, Thai, Korean, North Indian and more).
The space: Set in a laidback, tranquil environment within award-winning property The Samaya Ubud, this is the perfect spot to unwind, disconnect, and slow down.
Why visit: Offering Western staples like salads and sandwiches as well as hearty Balinese fare, it’s best to head here for lunch as it’ll allow you to soak in the view.
The space: The restaurant comes decked out with floor-to-ceiling windows, stunning chandeliers and a cosy fireplace.
Why visit: If you’re hankering after a good steak, the restaurant boasts stellar meat cuts and fresh seafood (recommended items include the Sher Wagyu tomahawk steak and grilled Boston lobster thermidor). It also houses an elegant glass wine cellar that houses a massive selection of vintage drinks to complement your meals.
Like this? Check out these unique dining experiences around the world, 11 beautiful islands in Asia to check off your travel bucket list, and the top 10 best bars in Singapore.