Bangkok’s Gaggan has once again claimed the top spot at the Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2025 awards. The restaurant, led by chef Gaggan Anand, received the honor at a grand ceremony in Seoul, South Korea. This marks its fifth win, following a streak from 2015 to 2018.
Gaggan’s triumph is a testament to its bold take on progressive Indian cuisine. Anand, originally from Kolkata, has revolutionized Indian flavors by fusing them with global culinary techniques. His dishes, known for their artistic presentation and unexpected elements, have consistently pushed boundaries. The restaurant’s design also mirrors its innovative spirit. It features two distinct dining areas that embody creativity and rebellion, setting the stage for an immersive experience.
Anand expressed his gratitude and excitement on Instagram, acknowledging the hard work behind the achievement. “This time it’s the heaviest. Thanks to all who believe in us!!… Please don’t come to judge our hardship as the best restaurant no 1. Rather come enjoy our art from heart. Let there be music, lights, food, and socials in our food opera. We promise you good memories and good times,” he wrote.
Gaggan’s journey has been anything but conventional. Anand first gained recognition for his experimental approach to Indian cuisine, incorporating molecular gastronomy and playful elements into his dishes. His signature dishes often defy traditional expectations. Diners have experienced edible emojis, yogurt explosions, and flavors that tell a story with each bite. The restaurant’s ever-evolving menu keeps food enthusiasts intrigued, making it a culinary destination.
Winning the top spot at the Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants list is a significant moment, not just for Gaggan but for progressive Indian cuisine on the global stage. It highlights how Indian flavors, when reinterpreted with innovation, can captivate audiences worldwide. Anand has built a brand that thrives on reinvention. Even after briefly parting ways with his original restaurant in 2019, he reestablished Gaggan with a fresh perspective, proving that creativity and resilience go hand in hand.
The award also reinforces Bangkok’s position as a global food hub. The city has seen a rise in experimental dining experiences, attracting food lovers from around the world. Gaggan’s success is a reflection of this evolving culinary landscape, where chefs dare to break the mold.
This recognition places the spotlight back on Anand’s vision of making dining an experience beyond just food. He believes in blending art, music, and storytelling into each meal, ensuring that guests leave with lasting memories. His restaurant’s ability to evoke emotions through food is what sets it apart.
Gaggan’s win at the Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2025 is not just an accolade; it is a celebration of innovation, passion, and the limitless potential of Indian cuisine in the modern world.
Gaggan’s recognition at the Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2025 awards also signifies a broader shift in the culinary world, where Indian cuisine is no longer confined to traditional curries and tandoori dishes. Instead, it is evolving into an artistic and sensory experience, drawing global attention. Anand’s ability to deconstruct classic Indian flavors and reassemble them in unexpected ways has made his restaurant a beacon of progressive gastronomy.
At Gaggan, dining is more than just a meal—it is an interactive performance. The menu, often presented without descriptions, encourages diners to engage with their senses, sparking curiosity and excitement. Many dishes challenge conventional dining etiquette, inviting guests to eat with their hands or play with textures. This unconventional approach has won over food critics and gourmands alike, making Gaggan a must-visit destination for those seeking culinary adventure.
Beyond the accolades, Gaggan’s success is also a deeply personal journey for Anand. Having started his career in Kolkata before training in European kitchens, he has always sought to push the boundaries of what Indian food can be. His story is one of perseverance, having faced challenges such as parting ways with his original restaurant and rebuilding his brand from scratch. Despite setbacks, he has remained unwavering in his commitment to innovation, proving that passion and creativity can overcome any obstacle.
This win further cements Anand’s status as a trailblazer in the industry, inspiring a new generation of chefs to reimagine traditional cuisines. It also places progressive Indian cuisine at the forefront of global fine dining, paving the way for more chefs to experiment and innovate.
As Gaggan continues to redefine the culinary landscape, the restaurant’s philosophy remains unchanged—food should be fun, thought-provoking, and above all, memorable. With each plate, Anand invites diners into his world of imagination, ensuring that every visit is an experience unlike any other. Winning the top spot once again is not just a personal victory for him but a celebration of creativity and the ever-evolving nature of Indian cuisine.