Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is Tatler Best?

Tatler Best is an exclusive platform celebrating exceptional establishments in Asia's hospitality sector, spotlighting the finest hotels, restaurants and bars. Building on Tatler’s 40-year legacy of excellence, this new initiative offers a comprehensive view of luxury hospitality, extending beyond the traditional Best Restaurants guide. As a media product, Tatler Best will feature curated content as well as features published across digital and print platforms, serving as a valuable resource for sophisticated, discerning travellers and industry professionals.

2. How is Tatler Best different from other industry awards?

Tatler Best stands out from other industry awards due to its distinctive approach to gathering insights. We directly survey Asia's most sophisticated and discerning travellers and culinary connoisseurs, ensuring that our results accurately reflect their preferences and tastes. This direct feedback from a select group of experts allows us to present an award list that is genuinely representative of the region's elite dining and hospitality scene, distinguishing Tatler Best as a trusted and insightful guide in the industry.

3. What is Tatler Best of Asia ?

The Tatler Best awards is an annual event that celebrates and recognises the best 100 hotels, restaurants, and bars across Asia, making it the largest industry gathering of professionals from the hospitality sector. The awards are a part of the broader Tatler Best initiative, with the winners being celebrated at a Best in Class awards dinner and other activations which include talks given by thought leaders and innovators in the hospitality industry.

4. How are the winners selected?

The selection process for the Tatler Best Hotels, Restaurants and Bars is conducted by an esteemed panel from Tatler's expansive Asia-wide network, comprising regional teams, dining editors, seasoned critics, and international journalists. 

In the realm of dining, over 400 distinguished jury members assess and nominate premier establishments across 12 regions in Asia, culminating in curated lists of the best 100 restaurants and 100 bars with a commitment to the following criteria:

  1. Ambience & Setting: A welcoming and clean environment with impressive design, appropriate lighting, and a fitting atmosphere, including music and overall vibe.
  2. Quality of Drinks & Innovation: Drinks are flavorful, balanced, and creatively presented, with a diverse and unique selection. There’s an emphasis on environmental consciousness and innovative techniques.
  3. Excellence in Wine & Spirits: A well-curated selection of wines and spirits, guided by knowledgeable staff, featuring both accessible and premium options, with thoughtful presentation and tasting opportunities.
  4. Food Pairing & Variety: A diverse menu that complements the drinks, with dishes that are well-seasoned, served at the right temperature, and reflective of sustainable practices.
  5. Service & Hospitality: Attentive, knowledgeable, and courteous staff who provide timely service, clear communication, and a seamless dining or drinking experience.

For the hotel category, a distinguished jury, including managing directors and travel editors from seven Asian offices, along with our community of discerning travel connoisseurs and key opinion leaders, evaluate the nominees. The voting form (was designed in consultation with Yona He Poda, industry veteran), ensures an unparalleled standard of excellence, resulting in the recognition of the best 100 hotels with a commitment to the following criteria:

  1. Exceptional Service & Unique Personality: Personalised service and a distinctive charm that sets the venue apart.
  2. Authentic Sense of Place: A strong connection to local culture and environment, offering guests an immersive experience.
  3. Outstanding Design & Amenities: Striking architecture, thoughtful design, and top-tier facilities.
  4. Commitment to Quality & Value: Exceptional quality with a justifiable cost, ensuring the experience meets or exceeds expectations.
  5. Sustainability & Reputation: A commitment to sustainability and a strong industry reputation.
5. Who are the industry experts involved in the selection process?

The selection panel includes a diverse group of seasoned professionals, including chefs, hoteliers, mixologists, and influential industry leaders, ensuring a well-rounded evaluation of each establishment. Featured industry experts include:

  • Sean Fitzpatrick, Jury Co-chair - Chief Experience Officer, Tatler Asia
  • Andy Cheng, Regional Head of Dining, Tatler Asia
  • Coco Marett, Content Co-lead - Regional Lifestyle & Travel Editor, Tatler Asia
  • Jeremy Jauncey, Jury Co-chair - Founder and CEO, Beautiful Destinations
  • Yona He Poda, Project Consultant - Former SVP, Forbes Travel Guide; 10 years at Four Seasons (US, HK)
6. Is there a methodology in shortlisting the panelists according to where they are from?

Our jury selection is highly deliberate, not random. We carefully choose panelists from our extensive network of discerning travellers, tastemakers, and connoisseurs, all of whom have demonstrated a deep passion for and expertise in hospitality and dining at the highest level. These individuals span various industries, from food and travel critics to respected figures in the hospitality world, ensuring a diverse and well-rounded perspective. Their experiences across Asia and beyond give them unique insights into the evolving luxury landscape, making them ideal judges for Tatler Best.

7. How does Tatler ensure the credibility of the awards?

Tatler maintains strict independence and objectivity in its selection process. The involvement of diverse industry experts and the editorial team's commitment to unbiased reviews ensures that only the most deserving establishments are recognised. 

Crucially, Tatler Best awards are not “pay to play”—venues cannot enter the awards through a fee or invest financially in a nomination. This ensures the integrity of the selection and that every establishment is judged solely on its merits.

8. How do I become part of the Tatler Best selection of hotels, restaurants, and bars?

Whether it's a luxurious hotel in Hong Kong, a world class  restaurant in Singapore, or an iconic bar in Tokyo, Tatler Best celebrates the most exceptional establishments across Asia. Our selection highlights venues that stand out for their unique character, dedication to excellence, and unparalleled guest experiences. Each establishment we feature embodies the highest standards of luxury and innovation, contributing to the rich tapestry of the region's hospitality industry.

Tatler Best recognises a diverse range of venues, from renowned five-star hotels to newly opened boutique properties, from world-class restaurants to hidden culinary gems, and celebrated bars to inventive cocktail lounges. While each establishment varies in style, location, and atmosphere, they all share a commitment to:

Hotels

  1. Exceptional Service & Unique Personality: Personalised service and a distinctive charm that sets the venue apart.
  2. Authentic Sense of Place: A strong connection to local culture and environment, offering guests an immersive experience.
  3. Outstanding Design & Amenities: Striking architecture, thoughtful design, and top-tier facilities.
  4. Commitment to Quality & Value: Exceptional quality with a justifiable cost, ensuring the experience meets or exceeds expectations.
  5. Sustainability & Reputation: A commitment to sustainability and a strong industry reputation.

Our editorial team and industry experts go to great lengths to discover and select the finest establishments across Asia. If you believe your venue exemplifies these qualities and would like to be considered for inclusion in the Tatler Best selection, please reach out to us with details about your property at tatler.best@tatlerasia.com.

Restaurants & Bars

  1. Ambience & Setting: A welcoming and clean environment with impressive design, appropriate lighting, and a fitting atmosphere, including music and overall vibe.
  2. Quality of Drinks & Innovation: Drinks are flavorful, balanced, and creatively presented, with a diverse and unique selection. There’s an emphasis on environmental consciousness and innovative techniques.
  3. Excellence in Wine & Spirits: A well-curated selection of wines and spirits, guided by knowledgeable staff, featuring both accessible and premium options, with thoughtful presentation and tasting opportunities.
  4. Food Pairing & Variety: A diverse menu that complements the drinks, with dishes that are well-seasoned, served at the right temperature, and reflective of sustainable practices.
  5. Service & Hospitality: Attentive, knowledgeable, and courteous staff who provide timely service, clear communication, and a seamless dining or drinking experience.
9. Can my establishment apply or nominate itself for Tatler Best awards?

Establishments cannot self-nominate for Tatler Best. Selection is based on the panel's recommendations, reviews, and independent evaluations. However, industry professionals are welcome to suggest outstanding venues for consideration. Please contact us at tatler.best@tatlerasia.com and specify the name of the establishment, the city in which it is located and the reasons why.

10. How can I highlight the strengths of my restaurant to be considered for the next tatler best selection?

To have your restaurant considered for the next Tatler Best selection, please provide the following details:

  • Name of establishment
  • Company name and contact details of your establishment
  • Brief background of the chef
  • Link to your website, or if unavailable, your Facebook or Instagram account
  • Your weekly opening hours

Please send it to us at tatler.best@tatlerasia.com for review.

11. What benefits do winners receive?

Winning a Tatler Best award brings significant visibility and recognition to establishments within the hospitality industry. Winners are featured prominently in the Tatler Best Guidebook and across Tatler's extensive media platforms, amplifying their prestige and attracting wider attention from discerning consumers.

In addition to the media exposure, winners are invited to participate in the prestigious Tatler Best of Asia event. This provides a valuable opportunity to network with other industry leaders, share best practices, and forge new connections that can lead to future collaborations and growth.

12. How does Tatler Best contribute to the industry?

Tatler Best aims to elevate industry standards by recognising and celebrating excellence. It serves as a benchmark for quality, inspiring establishments to innovate and strive for excellence in hospitality and dining.

Additionally, Tatler Best aims to foster a sense of community spirit and collaboration within the hospitality sector, encouraging establishments to work together, innovate and share best practices for mutual growth and improvement.

13. Will the Tatler Best guide be available to the public?

The Tatler Best guide will be made publicly available in both print and digital formats. It will serve as an essential resource for luxury travellers and discerning diners across Asia, providing them with a curated selection of the finest hotels, restaurants, and bars.

14. Can winners use the Tatler Best logo in their marketing?

Yes, winners are granted the right to use the Tatler Best logo in their marketing and promotional materials, signifying their place among Asia’s finest in hospitality and dining. Additionally, a plaque will be provided for establishments to proudly display within their venues, serving as a tangible symbol of their achievement and commitment to the highest standard in hospitality. The team will also share promotional communications packs with a guide on how best to promote your achievements.

15. What are the Tatler Best Talks and the Tatler Best Takeovers series?

The Tatler Best Talks are thought leadership sessions, featuring dynamic panel discussions and presentations led by hospitality industry icons. These talks offer deep insights into emerging trends, innovations, and best practices, fostering a space for knowledge-sharing and sparking new ideas that can shape the future of the luxury hospitality sector. 

The Tatler Best Takeover Series is a curated collection of exclusive dining and mixology events held in major cities, spotlighting the most exceptional talents from the Tatler Best 100 list of Asia’s top restaurants and bars. These events, ranging from guest shifts and four-hand dinners to pop-ups and bespoke menus, showcase creative collaborations between top chefs and mixologists. Each takeover highlights local ingredients, celebrating culinary craftsmanship and regional flavors. Attendees can expect unique, one-off creations designed to elevate the city’s gastronomic experience during the Tatler Best of Asia event. 

Tickets for the Tatler Best Takeovers are open to the public but are limited, providing an intimate and unparalleled opportunity to experience the best in Asian cuisine and cocktails.

16. How can industry professionals be part of Tatler Best?

Professionals can get involved by attending the Tatler Best of Asia event, participating in Tatler Best Talks, and at the Tatler Best Takeovers for potential collaboration opportunities. Additionally, staying connected with Tatler’s editorial team may open opportunities for collaboration or future recognition.

There will be tickets made available to the public solely via Mastercard's Priceless platform.

17. How can I attend Tatler Best of Asia?

Attendance at Tatler Best events is typically by invitation only. Keep an eye on Tatler’s announcements for more information on how to secure a spot.

18. I have an invitation to attend and would like to bring a guest.

Invitations to the Tatler Best of Asia event are non-transferable and for the named invitee only. If you would like to bring a guest, please contact the event organisers to inquire about guest pass availability.

19. Are there partnership opportunities available?

Yes, there are various partnership opportunities available for brands and organisations looking to align with Tatler Best. Please reach out to the Tatler team to explore bespoke partnership packages at tatler.best@tatlerasia.com.

20. What will happen under extreme weather?

In the event of extreme weather or unforeseen circumstances, Tatler Best organisers will communicate any changes or cancellations promptly. Contingency plans, including alternative dates or venues, will be shared with attendees as needed.

21. How do I get to the venue?

Venue details, including directions and transportation options, will be provided with your event invitation. We recommend planning your own flights and accommodations in advance to ensure timely arrival.

22. Is food and beverage provided at the event?

Yes, food and beverages will be provided at the Tatler Best of Asia event, featuring a curated selection of gourmet offerings from leading chefs and mixologists.

23. What is the dress code for the event?

The dress code for the Tatler Best of Asia event on 24th November is business formal with a celebratory twist, while on 25th November it is black tie, in keeping with the event’s prestigious nature. Specific dress code details will be provided with your invitation.

24. Are there any hotel deals during my stay for the event?

Tatler Best often partners with luxury hotels to offer exclusive deals for event attendees. Details on any available hotel packages will be shared closer to the event date.

25. Will you be recording the event and taking photos during the Tatler Best of Asia?

Yes, the Tatler Best of Asia event will be recorded, and photographers will be present to capture the experience. By attending, you agree to being filmed and photographed, with the content potentially appearing across Tatler’s media platforms.

26. What does the future hold for Tatler Best?

Tatler Best plans to expand its scope and influence, continually evolving to reflect the dynamic luxury hospitality and dining industries. Future initiatives include global expansion, new categories, and enhanced digital content and experiences to support and promote the best in the business.