There are so many restaurant reviews, and some of these reviews offer questionable rankings and equally questionable criteria. Even the renowned Michelin restaurant ratings got negative impressions and worse, had to shut down temporarily for food poisoning. But a British magazine Restaurant, which just released its top ranked restaurants in the planet, has quite a reputation that “makes or breaks a chef” according to a report from SCMP. The ranking system was decided by more than 800 chefs, critics and industry insiders.

In the report, four Hong Kong restaurants were able to find themselves among the top 100 restaurants in the world. Zuma at The Landmark came in 51st, while L’Atelier de Joel Robuchon Hong Kong, also at The Landmark, ranked 55th. French restaurant Caprice at the Four Seasons Hotel was 78th, and Bo Innovation in Wan Chai was 97th.

Landmark, a luxurious shopping arcade in the heart of Central, should be proud to host two of these restaurants.

Ever wonder who landed on top? Spanish restaurant El Bulli, followed by The Fat Duck (one I mentioned about poisoning above), Denmark’s Noma, followed by Mugaritz and El Celler de Can Roca in Spain, Per Se in the United States, Bras in France, Arzak in Spain, Pierre Gagnaire in France and Alinea in the US.

I guess the best restaurants rating in the world are mostly for those who have discriminating taste. And for restaurant chefs and owners who take pride in the art of cooking. And the possible surge in patrons associated with raves and awards. I myself can’t distinguish if a restaurant serves great food from good food. Unless it’s awfully bad, I often say, “It’s okay”.

Photo credit: Tom Spender