Bangkok’s Culinary Triumph
Gaggan’s Fifth Victory
Gaggan, led by chef Gaggan Anand, was crowned Asia’s Best Restaurant at the 2025 Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants awards in Seoul on March 25. This marks the fifth time the Bangkok establishment has claimed the top spot, solidifying its status as a global culinary icon with its innovative approach to progressive Indian cuisine.
Thailand’s Strong Showing
Nine Restaurants Shine
Thailand dominated the 2025 Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants list, securing nine spots in the top 50. Alongside Gaggan, Bangkok’s Nusara (No. 6), Sühring (No. 11), Potong (No. 13), Sorn (No. 16), Le Du (No. 20), Gaggan at Louis Vuitton (No. 31), Baan Tepa (No. 44), and Samrub Samrub Thai (No. 47) showcased the nation’s vibrant dining scene.
Chef Anand’s Reinvention
Adapting to Modern Tastes
Chef Anand, who reimagined Gaggan in 2019, credits the win to his team’s relentless innovation. By blending Japanese, French, and Thai influences with Indian flavors, Gaggan delivers over 20 theatrical courses, complete with pyrotechnics and eclectic playlists, redefining fine dining in 2025.
Individual Honors Awarded
Thai Chefs Celebrated
The awards highlighted Thai talent, with Chudaree “Tam” Debhakam of Baan Tepa named Asia’s Best Female Chef 2025, following Potong’s Pichaya Soontornyanakij in 2024. Dej Kewkacha of Gaggan at Louis Vuitton earned Asia’s Best Pastry Chef, reinforcing Thailand’s culinary prowess.
Bangkok’s Global Influence
A Gastronomic Hub
Bangkok tied with Tokyo for the most entries on the list, each boasting nine restaurants. The city’s diverse offerings, from Gaggan’s avant-garde dishes to Sorn’s refined southern Thai cuisine, cement its reputation as Asia’s dining capital in 2025.
Emotional Milestone for Anand
Defying Doubts
Accepting the award, Anand spoke of overcoming self-doubt and criticism, dedicating the win to his team and skeptics who fueled his drive. His focus on authentic, boundary-pushing cuisine has kept Gaggan relevant, making this fifth win the “best time” yet in 2025.
