Savor the Flavor: Top Five Michelin-starred Restaurants In Southeast Asia

06 Jun, 2023 | Secrets Untold

Let's explore the amazing, unique flavors of Southeast Asia while indulging in some of the best European cuisines in the world.

Michelin-starred restaurants are recognized throughout the world as being the best for that ultimate culinary experience. While Southeast Asia, renowned for its own flavorful and diverse cuisine which has long captivated the hearts and palates of people all around the world, is now not just famous for Eastern delights but also Western as well. If you’re a food enthusiast planning a Southeast Asia vacation, one way to experience the best of this region's culinary scene is by combining the two!

The Journey of Michelin Stars in Southeast Asia started in 2016 when the Michelin Guide first came to Singapore. Since then, recognizing its culinary excellence, Michelin-starred restaurants have expanded across the region, now being located in six countries: Thailand, Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, Vietnam, and the Philippines,  

With so many Michelin restaurants to choose from, it can be hard for food enthusiasts planning their trip to know where to go. So, to help get you started both exploring the amazing, unique flavors of Southeast Asia, as well as indulging in some of the best European cuisines in the world, we have put together what we think are the top 5 Michelin-starred Restaurants in the region. 

1. Les Amis, Singapore

3 Stars. French Cuisine

Being an iconic fixture in Singapore’s fine dining scene since 1994, Les Amis, a three-Michelin-starred restaurant is known for its exquisite French cuisine and impeccable service. Chef Sebastien Lepinoy helms the kitchen, bringing his wealth of experience from Michelin-starred restaurants in Europe and Asia.

The menu features classic French dishes made with the finest ingredients sourced from around the world, and signature dishes include the Burgundy Snail Ravioli with Comté Cheese Foam and the Wild Scottish Langoustine with Curry Leaf Emulsion. A meal at Les Amis is a truly indulgent experience, with prices from $$$ to $$$$ (Photo: Les Amis.)

  • Address: 1 Scotts Rd, #01-16 Shaw Centre, Singapore 228208, Singapore

2. Restaurant Zén, Singapore

3 Stars. European Cuisine

Located in a beautifully restored shophouse in the heart of Singapore's Chinatown, Restaurant Zén is a three-Michelin-starred establishment that offers an intimate and exclusive dining experience, with only 24 seats available for dinner.

Under the leadership of chef Bjorn Frantzén, Restaurant Zén’s menu is a reflection of both his Scandinavian as well as Asian heritage, with dishes that showcase the best of both worlds. Signature dishes include the Hokkaido Uni with Truffle Cream and the Norwegian King Crab with Rice Cracker and Seaweed. The restaurant serves only one tasting menu, which includes nine courses and canapes. Ranging at $$$$ to $$$$$, it is one of Singapore's most expensive dining experiences (Photo: Zén.)

  • Address: 41 Bukit Pasoh Rd, Singapore 089855, Singapore

3. Rhaan, Bangkok, Thailand

2 Stars. Thai Cuisine

Led by chef Chumpol Jangprai, who is known for his innovative take on traditional Thai dishes, Rhaan is a two-Michelin-starred restaurant based in Bangkok that celebrates the rich and diverse flavors of Thai cuisine. Dishes on the menu are made with the freshest local ingredients, such as the Grilled River Prawn with Tom Yum Foam and the Southern-style Yellow Curry with Beef.

Priced at $$ to $$$, Rhaan is a great choice for all foodies who are planning on going on a Thailand vacation. In fact, Rhaan also offers an even more affordable lunch-tasting menu, making it accessible for foodies on a budget (Photo: Rhaan.)

  • Address: 131 Soi Sukhumvit 49, Khwaeng Khlong Tan Nuea, Khet Watthana, Bangkok 10110, Thailand

4. Chef’s Table, Bangkok, Thailand

2 Stars. French Contemporary Cuisine

Known for its contemporary French cuisine and innovative tasting menus, Chef's Table is a two-Michelin-starred restaurant located in the heart of Bangkok. The kitchen is led by chef Henrik Yde-Andersen, who is known for his playful and creative approach to food, showcasing a blend of classic French dishes and modern culinary techniques. Culinary delights to try include the Hokkaido Scallop with Wasabi and Green Apple and the Braised Beef Short Rib with Black Garlic. Prices range from $$$ to $$$$ at Chef's Table, so it is one of the pricier dining experiences in the city (Photo: Chef's Table.)

  • Address: 149/1-3 Soi Sukhumvit 55, Khlong Tan Nuea, Watthana, Bangkok, Thailand

5. Anan Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

1 Star. Vietnamese Contemporary 

Based in Ho Chi Minh City, former Saigon, Anan Saigon is a Michelin-starred restaurant known for its modern Vietnamese cuisine Chef Peter Cuong elevates street food and traditional dishes to a fine dining experience. Taking inspiration from the country’s flavor food culture, sourcing fresh ingredients sourced from a nearby wet market, and using French culinary techniques honed during his studying at the prestigious Le Cordon Bleu, Chef Peter brings sophistication and an international outlook to his menu. 

Signature dishes are Đà Lạt Pizza, Bánh Xèo Taco, and Crab Fried Rice, inspired by food found at street food markets in Vietnam. Diners will also find in the tasting menu One-Bite Pho that includes wagyu beef and black truffle and $100 Banh Mi with foie gras and secret herb. At Anan, traditional Vietnamese food has been reframed into an extravagant treat by adding the highest quality ingredients.

Means “Eat, Eat!” in Vietnamese, Anan is the #40 Asia’s Best Restaurant and The Best Restaurant in Vietnam Award in 2023. Open only for dinner from 5 PM to late, Tuesday to Sunday, prices at Anan range from $$ to $$$ (Photo: Anan Saigon.)

  • Address: 89, Ton That Dam, D1, HCMC. 

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