Spanish Open-Fire Dining Crowned World's Best; Bangkok's Gaggan Takes Second Place

Asador Etxebarri in Spain claims the top spot in the 2026 global rankings, celebrated for its mastery of flame-cooked seasonal delicacies.

Spain’s Asador Etxebarri has officially been named the world’s best restaurant for 2026. Renowned for its primitive yet sophisticated open-fire cooking, the kitchen prepares seasonal masterpieces like sea cucumber with green beans and homemade chorizo. This prestigious ranking, audited by Deloitte, reflects the pinnacle of global gastronomy, highlighting a shift towards authentic, fire-based culinary techniques that resonate with food enthusiasts worldwide.

The ranking highlights a strong showing for Asian gastronomy, with Bangkok’s Gaggan securing second place and Hong Kong’s Wing taking fifth. This proximity is exciting for travelers in Vietnam, as some of the world's most elite dining experiences are just a short flight away. The list also includes Copenhagen’s Alchemist and Mexico’s Quintonil, showcasing a diverse range of innovative culinary philosophies across continents.

For those planning a culinary pilgrimage, the voting process ensures high standards through anonymous contributions from chefs and food journalists. Each restaurant is evaluated based on visits within the last 18 months, ensuring the list remains current. Travelers should book well in advance for these high-demand locations, as the global exposure often leads to reservation waitlists extending several months or even a year.

Source reference: VnExpress International