The first ever World Restaurant Awards are happening next year, and they’re celebrating the diversity of restaurants across the globe.
Unlike other prestigious awards, the inaugural World Restaurant Awards won’t focus on flashy Michelin star restaurants, but instead they intend to highlight the diversity of the restaurant scene; from fine dining innovators to humble, accessible establishments.
There are 18 categories in total—including ‘Arrival of the Year’, ‘Enduring Classic’, and ‘Atmosphere of the Year’—and London restaurants have been nominated 18 times across the board.
by still championing the red grape.” (Photo by @stephen_macintosh)
Rustic Basque-inspired spot, BRAT, has been nominated for ‘Arrival of the Year’, while Ikoyi has been put forward for the ‘Original Thinking’ award. London’s oldest restaurant, Rules, and infamous hotel The Ritz were both nominated, amongst other local restaurants, for the ‘Enduring Classic’ award, which is reserved for exceptional restaurants that have been open for over 50 years.
Nominated for the ‘No Reservation Required’ award, for places it’s possible to turn up without a booking, you’ll see Black Axe Mangal, a rock-themed flatbread and kebab restaurant, and KILN, a lovely spot for Thai barbecue food. Wine bar and restaurant, Noble Rot, has also been recognised for its excellent red wine.
The World Restaurant Awards will be judged by various chefs, journalists and entrepreneurs, and the line-up has been carefully curated to guarantee equal gender representation. The awards will take place in Paris on February 18, 2019. Stay tuned and keep your fingers crossed for some wins. ?