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top 25 restaurants

Phuket’s Most Anticipated 2024 Top Restaurants Awards Winners to Be Revealed

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Phuket's Most Anticipated 2024 Top Restaurants Awards Winners to Be Revealed - TRAVELINDEXPhuket, Thailand, October 16, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / Culinary enthusiasts and food lovers are invited to discover and celebrate the vibrant dining scene of Phuket at the upcoming TOP25 Restaurants Phuket Awards 2024. This prestigious event will honor the best restaurants on the island, as selected and ranked by the innovative Restaurant Rating Index.

The TOP25 Restaurants Awards are a significant milestone in Phuket’s culinary calendar. This year marks the third installment of the awards, which aims to celebrated Phuket as a premier gastronomic destination and the first city in Thailand and Southeast Asia to be recognized by UNESCO City of Gastronomy.

The awards ceremony will take place on October 29, 2024, at the luxurious InterContinental Resort & Spa Phuket, where guests will enjoy an evening filled with gastronomic delights and networking opportunities.

“We are thrilled to share the 2024 Award Winners in Phuket,” stated Bernard Metzger, Founder of the TOP25 Restaurants Guide and Award series. In a notable expansion for this year’s event, the awards will also introduce several Special Awards aimed at recognizing excellence in specific areas of the culinary industry. Categories will include Sustainable Restaurants, Outstanding Cuisine, the Gastronomy Pioneer Award, and more.” 

“These special recognitions are a testament to the evolving culinary landscape in Phuket and our commitment to promoting sustainability and innovation within the industry,” Metzger added. “We are proud to highlight those restaurants that not only serve incredible food but also contribute positively to the community and environment.”

The Restaurant Rating Index: A New Standard

The Restaurant Rating Index is a proprietary system developed by Travelindex, which evaluates various aspects of dining establishments. This multi-level index considers:

  • Quality of Food: The taste, creativity, and presentation of dishes.
  • Ambience and Comfort: The overall dining environment, including decor and seating arrangements.
  • Value for Money: The balance between price and quality.
  • Online Footprint: The extent of the restaurant’s digital reach and influence.
  • Social Markers: Online presence, media engagement, customer reviews, and social markers.
  • Media Engagement: How often the restaurant is featured in culinary publications or articles.
  • Review Content Analysis: AI-driven analysis of customer reviews to gauge overall sentiment and satisfaction.

By combining AI analysis with expert discernement, the Restaurant Rating Index provides an objective and nuanced ranking that reflects both culinary excellence and customer experience in the dining landscape of Phuket and beyond

The awards ceremony will provide an opportunity for food enthusiasts, industry professionals, and local influencers to come together and discover which restaurants have earned a place among the TOP25. Attendees will also have the chance to meet the talented chefs behind these culinary triumphs, gaining insights into their creative processes and the inspirations behind their dishes. Following the ceremony, a comprehensive list of award winners, along with all nominated and recognized restaurants, will be made available online for the public to discover and explore.

For more information about the awards, and to discover all restaurants from the TOP25 selection in Phuket, please visit: www.top25restaurants.com/thailand/phuket/ 

About TOP25 Restaurants by Travelindex
TOP25 Restaurants is the World’s First AI-Powered restaurant guide. It is the only independent, global rating system based on artificial intelligence enhanced by human expertise and discernment. This dynamic synergy not only ensures unparalleled accuracy but enriches the curation process with a depth of understanding and nuance unparalleled elsewhere. The annual TOP25 Restaurants Awards celebrates the most outstanding restaurants and showcases the ultimate collection of dining venues in each destination. TOP25 Restaurants is owned by Travelindex Group, a content-driven ecosystem for the travel and tourism sectors. The media group operates an open and free digital platform, connecting millions of travelers worldwide and providing inspiration and advice for discerning travelers and tourists. In addition to Bangkok, Travelindex Group also publishes TOP25 Restaurant Guides in the following destinations: Phuket, Singapore, Hong Kong, Macao, Shanghai, Delhi and Dubai. www.top25restaurants.com

About InterContinental Phuket Resort
Inspired by Phuket’s natural landscape, InterContinental® Phuket Resort is a luxury beachfront hideaway featuring 221 elegantly appointed rooms and villas overlooking the Andaman Sea. The resort’s five restaurants and bars offer contemporary Thai fine-dining at Jaras, international gourmet fare at Pinto, poolside favorites and craft cocktails at Pine Beach Bar, Japanese cuisine inspired by the ancient techniques and presentation of Osaka’s cooking masters at Tengoku, and organic coffee, tea, and delicacies at Devas’ Lounge. Resort facilities include Club InterContinental® Lounge, Sati Spa & Wellness®, six swimming pools with breath-taking views, a well-equipped Fitness Centre, tennis court, and the Planet Trekkers Kids Club for multi-generational recreation. Located on the secluded part of Kamala Beach, just a 30-minute drive from Phuket International Airport, the InterContinental Phuket Resort has already garnered international awards such as ‘2019 Readers Choices: The Best Overseas Hotel’ from Travel + Leisure China ‘2019 Best Overseas Hotel’ from Voyage, China, 2022 TripAdvisor Traveler’s Choice Award, and LEED Gold Certification since its official opening in November 2019. phuket.intercontinental.com/

About Khiri Travel
Khiri Travel is a leading product-driven destination management company (DMC) operating across nine countries: Cambodia, Laos, Maldives, Myanmar, Philippines, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Vietnam. The company specializes in crafting personalized itineraries that connect travelers with the heart of Southeast Asia. With a strong commitment to conservation, community, culture, and commerce, Khiri ensures that every experience contributes positively to the destinations it visits. From luxury escapes to immersive cultural encounters, Khiri delivers unforgettable adventures that inspire and enrich travelers. www.khiri.com

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Blue Elephant Group’s Master Chef Nooror Hosts Lunch for Lady Ambassadors

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Bangkok, Thailand, March 20, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / Master Chef Nooror Somany Steppe (6th from left), Founder of the Blue Elephant Group, hosted a luncheon in honour of Lady Ambassadors to Thailand and other prominent ladies to mark the International Women’s Day at Blue Elephant Cooking School & Restaurant Bangkok recently. The event was a casual get-together to foster female and international relations filled with laughter and camaraderie amongst the powerful ladies of the diplomatic corps and other distinguished guests.

The hostess Master Chef presented each Ambassador with a special, hand-woven “Khram” Sakon Nakon Natural Indigo Dyed Fabric, made of 100% natural cotton, showcasing the identity, skill and pride of the community of women in Sakon Nakon province who are able to craft and produce such precious homegrown fabric masterpieces.

Pictured from left are: H.E. Mrs. Shirley Dennise Aguilar Barrera, Ambassador of Guatemala; H.E. Mrs. Daniela-Brindusa Bazavan, Ambassador of Romania; H.E. Ms. Ping Kitnikone, Ambassador of Canada; Sandra Steppe Goswami; H.E. Mrs. Serap Ersoy, Ambassador of Turkey; Master Chef Nooror Somany Steppe: H.E. Mrs. Sibille de Cartier d’Yves, Ambassador of Belgium; H.E. Mrs. Millicent Cruz-Paredes, Ambassador of the Philippines; H.E. Ilse Ferrer Silva, Ambassador of Mexico; H. E. Dr. Angela Macdonald PSM, Ambassador of Australia; and H.E. Ms. Cecilia Zunilda Galarreta, Ambassador of Peru.

 

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Dine in the Dark, Bangkok’s Most Surprising Culinary Experience

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dine-in-the-dark-bangkoks-most-surprising-culinary-experience.jpgBangkok, Thailand, March 4, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / DID – Dine in the Dark, the multi-sensory, thought-provoking and socially responsible dining experience, has been surprising and delighting guests in the heart of Bangkok since 2014. Now, to celebrate the 10th anniversary of this pitch-black culinary evening at Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit Bangkok, three delectable new menus have been launched that will transport diners on an adventure through taste, smell, touch and sound.

At DID, diners embark on a journey into the world of the blind and partially sighted. Having been warmly greeted at BARSU, the legendary lounge on Sukhumvit Road, guests are plunged into darkness and guided to their table by a team of visually-impaired guides. Without the power of sight, they are presented with a four-course menu and have to use their remaining senses to work out what’s on their plate – a fun, interactive gastronomic guessing game that also raises awareness about blindness.

New Western, Asian and Vegetarian menus have now been added to the DID experience, alongside the existing Surprise (East meets West fusion) options. Each of these four-course set dinners has been expertly crafted by a team of talented chefs, who carefully blend different textures, flavors and aromas to stimulate the senses and tantalize the taste buds. Every meal can be accompanied by a choice of beverages, including fine premium beverages and cool cocktails.

While the evening is designed to be lively and entertaining, it also serves a more important purpose. As a socially responsible venture, DID is presented by a team of sightless servers who guide their guests through the entire meal. The aim is to raise awareness about the lives of blind and partially sighted people in Thailand and to provide a valuable source of employment and income for talented individuals who may otherwise find it difficult to find work.

By reversing the usual roles of society and letting the visually-impaired service team help their full-sighted guests, this revealing evening offers a valuable insight into how the world is perceived by people without the power of sight. For every customer hosted at DID, Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit, a Luxury Collection Hotel will donate THB 50 to the Foundation for the Blind in Thailand, a non-profit organization based in Bangkok.

DID is available six days a week (Tuesday to Sunday), from 18.00 – 22.00 hrs. Staged at BARSU, the stylish social venue at Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit and with a direct connection from Asok BTS skytrain station, this is an unmissable culinary experience that will bring families, friends and groups closer together.

For reservation, please visit https://sheratongrandesukhumvit.info/dineinthedark.

Alternatively, to contact Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit please call +66 (0)2 649 8888

About The Luxury Collection Hotels & Resorts
The Luxury Collection, part of Marriott International, Inc., is comprised of world-renowned hotels and resorts offering unique, authentic experiences that evoke lasting, treasured memories. For the global explorer, The Luxury Collection offers a gateway to the world’s most exciting and desirable destinations. Each hotel and resort is a unique and cherished expression of its location; a portal to the destination’s indigenous charms and treasures. Originated in 1906 under the CIGA® brand as a collection of Europe’s most celebrated and iconic properties, today The Luxury Collection brand is a glittering ensemble of nearly 120 of the world’s finest hotels and resorts in more than 35 countries and territories. All of these hotels, many of them centuries old, are internationally recognized as being among the world’s finest. For more information and new openings, visit theluxurycollection.com or follow Twitter, Instagram and Facebook. The Luxury Collection is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy®, the global travel program from Marriott International. The program offers members an extraordinary portfolio of global brands, exclusive experiences on Marriott Bonvoy Moments and unparalleled benefits including free nights and Elite status recognition.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Embark on a Gastronomic Adventure in Japan’s Culinary Capital

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Embark on a Gastronomic Adventure in Japan's Culinary Capital - TOP25RESTAURANTS.comOsaka, Japan, March 1, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / The vibrant metropolis of Osaka is considered the culinary capital of Japan – a haven of gastronomy where local residents and international visitors can savour world-class cuisine. Now, this captivating city is raising the bar for dining even higher with a collection of eight world-class restaurants and bars at Centara Grand Hotel Osaka.

Rising 33-storeys in Namba, Osaka’s most vibrant entertainment and retail district, this five-star urban landmark transports diners on a multi-sensory journey of discovery, as talented chefs fuse premium ingredients and a spirit of innovation to craft exquisite cuisine in atmospheric venues. Here is a selection of the hotel’s most unmissable dining experiences:

Suan Bua: Sizzling Thai Street Food

As Thailand’s leading hotel group, Centara is rooted in Thai culinary heritage. At Suan Bua, diners’ taste buds are escorted to the bustling streets of Southeast Asia with stylish interiors and a genuine tuk-tuk in the heart of the restaurant! All ages can savour authentic Thai street food, including fresh salads, spicy soups, sizzling stir-fries, colourful curries and more, crafted by Chef Sompong, who hails from Thailand, and his talented team.

Don’t miss: Tom Yum Goong Naang. Thailand’s national dish is a wonderfully fragrant, spicy and sour soup featuring river prawns, lemongrass, chilli and mushrooms.

Kunsei Kitchen: Osaka’s Most Spectacular Smokehouse

Discerning diners can elevate their epicurean adventure at Kunsei Kitchen, the 33rd floor smokehouse restaurant which frames sparkling skyline views. Within this stunning setting, Chef Asano, who has worked at some of the world’s leading restaurants, uses exquisite ingredients to craft contemporary dishes, accompanied by fine wines and smoked cocktails. The omakase menu is a highly exclusive experience that blends tradition with invention.

Don’t miss: Seasonal Fish with Smoked Broth. Kunsei Kitchen’s menu changes with the seasons to showcase the finest ingredients in their prime – including the freshest fish.

Whiskey Nova Steakhouse: Elevating the Epicurean Arts

Osaka’s most exciting and immersive new steakhouse, this dazzling 32nd floor restaurant transports guests to a world where American comic book culture meets Japanese retro art. Amidst this vibrant ambience, diners can indulge in expertly prepared cuts of meat, from succulent dry-aged beef to perfectly grilled wagyu. Every meal can be paired with a curated selection of fine wines and whiskeys, all set against a backdrop of breath-taking city views.

Don’t miss: Japanese Beef Sirloin Steak. Wonderfully tender and cooked to perfection, this is a meat-lover’s dream. Enjoy it with WhiskeyNova’s own signature steak sauce.

Smoke & Spin: Feel the Spirit of the City

Step into Centara Grand Hotel Osaka’s rooftop oasis at Smoke & Spin, where panoramic views of the city unfold. Designed with the theme of a baseball park, this inspiring venue is the ultimate setting for afternoon tea during the day. Then as night falls, this spirited lounge transforms into a vibrant hub of activity where guests can feel the energy of Osaka and sip expertly crafted cocktails until 2am.

Don’t miss: Strawberry Afternoon Tea. This sublime selection is presented on an elegant tree stand and features 17 sweet & savoury bites, focusing on fresh strawberries.

Guests can also discover Crudo Deck, the breath-taking rooftop restaurant where diners can soak up panoramic views, sip in a world of science fiction at Automata, the cutting-edge cocktail bar with self-service technology, or grab light refreshments on the move at Platform 2, the bright lobby lounge.

About Centara
Centara Hotels & Resorts is Thailand’s leading hotel operator. Its 96 properties span all major Thai destinations plus the Maldives, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar, China, Japan, Oman, Qatar, Cambodia, Turkey and the UAE. Centara’s portfolio comprises six brands – Centara Reserve, Centara Boutique Collection, Centara Grand, Centara, Centara Life and COSI Hotels – ranging from luxury island retreats and upscale family resorts to affordable lifestyle concepts supported by innovative technology. The group’s newest Centara Reserve brand was unveiled in 2020 as an experiential luxury collection, inviting guests to discover a new era of story-driven hospitality starting with Centara Reserve Samui.

Centara also operates state-of-the-art convention centres and has its own award-winning spa brand, Cenvaree. Throughout the collection, Centara delivers and celebrates the hospitality and values Thailand is famous for including gracious service, exceptional food, pampering spas and the importance of families. Centara’s distinctive culture and diversity of formats allow it to serve and satisfy travellers of nearly every age and lifestyle.

Centara aims to become a top 100 global hotel group, while spreading its footprint into new continents and market niches. As Centara continues to expand, a growing base of loyal customers will find the company’s unique style of hospitality in more locations. Centara’s global loyalty programme, Centara The 1, reinforces their loyalty with rewards, privileges and special member pricing.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Thailand Travel Mart Plus 2024 is Open for Registration

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Bangkok, Thailand, February 12, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / Thailand’s leading B2B travel industry show, the Thailand Travel Mart Plus (TTM+) 2024, is scheduled to be held on 5-7 June at JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort and Spa in Khao Lak, Phang-nga. Online registrations for buyers and sellers will open on 9 February via the official website www.thailandtravelmartplus.com.

Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor, said “This year’s edition of TTM+ will continue its well-established position as the premier showcase of Thai tourism. Buyers and sellers will come together and build on existing business partnerships and forge new ones. Equally important, the event will shine a spotlight on the transformation of Thai tourism towards more meaningful travel with a focus on high-value and sustainable tourism. TTM+2024 is expected to create around 15,000 business appointments, generating over 2 billion Baht”

The TTM+ 2024 is expected to welcome more than 950 participants. This includes 420 buyers from 50 countries, representing key source markets – Europe, ASEAN, East Asia, America, and Australia – and emerging markets – Eastern Europe, the Middle East, South America, and South Africa.

About 430 sellers from the Central, Eastern, Northern, Northeastern (Isan), and Southern regions of Thailand will showcase a plethora of tourism products and services, including a multitude of meaningful travel experiences that illustrate Thailand’s 5F soft-power foundations – Food, Film, Festival, Fight, and Fashion – and a vast array of sustainable tourism opportunities.

Mr. Siripakorn Cheawsamoot, TAT Deputy Governor for International Marketing – Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and the Americas, said “TAT will exert every effort to ensure that the TTM+ 2024 yields substantial results for all participants as well as the host destination and local tourism industry partners. This year, TTM+ will be focussed on sustainability, offering discounts to Thai sellers who operate their businesses sustainably. Other than buyers that are coming from the major markets like Europe, Americas, East Asia, Southeast Asia, and Australia, TAT expects to see buyers from new markets such as Eastern Europe, the Middle East, South America, and South Africa, and buyers who are new to Thailand.”

The programme for the TTM+ 2024 will include the registration, opening ceremony, TTM Talk, Thailand Product Update, on-site appointment session, and welcome reception on 5 June, and two full days of buyer/seller appointments on 6-7 June. There will be pre-tours of Phang-nga highlighting wellness, soft adventure, and sustainability, as well as post-tours to explore various destinations in five regions of Thailand.

TAT is organising the TTM+ 2024 in partnership with Phang-nga Province, the Phang-nga Tourism Association, tourism-related associations and clubs, and the public and private sectors in post-tour destinations.

Mr. Supoj Rodruang Na Nongkhai, Governor of Phang-nga Province, said, “We are ready to welcome all participants attending the TTM+ 2024 with all measures in place to facilitate smooth travel. The tourism sector is one of the most important income generators for Phang-nga.”

The idyllic Southern Thai beach resort of Phang-nga is 788 kilometres south of Bangkok and about an hour’s drive from Phuket International Airport. The province boasts stunning geographic features, including three national parks – Ao Phang Nga, Mu Ko Surin, and Mu Ko Similan, a famous fishing village – Ko Panyi, a cave known for its stalagmites and stalactites – Tham Phung Chang, a whitewater rafting adventure on the Song Phraek River, and the beautiful Khao Lak Beach.

Mr. Lertsak Ponklin, President of Phang-nga Tourism Association, said, “The Phang-nga tourism industry is honoured to be a part of hosting TAT’s flagship TTM+ event. We’re preparing to showcase one-of-a-kind, meaningful and sustainable tourism experiences Phang-nga has to offer to tourists from around the world.”

The TTM+ 2024 is expected to gain numerous exposure from some 100 local and international media expected to attend the event.

About the TTM+
First held in 2001, the TTM+ has gained a well-earned reputation in visitor source markets worldwide and in Thailand’s tourism industry as a ‘must-attend’ event.

This year, in its 21st edition, the TTM+ 2024 is all set to continue the tradition of providing a valuable platform for sellers and buyers to meet with current and potential business partners and to reinforce relationships with global travel specialists and decision-makers.

Since its launch, the TTM+ took place mainly in Bangkok each year. It was relocated to Chiang Mai in 2016 – 17, Pattaya in 2018 – 19, Phuket in 2022, and Bangkok in 2023 as part of the TAT’s strategy to promote provincial destinations.

 

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Wander Wednesdays at Burapa Eastern Thai Cuisine

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Wander Wednesdays at Burapa Eastern Thai Cuisine - TOP25RESTAURANTS.comBangkok, Thailand, February 6, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / Burapa Eastern Thai Cuisine & Bar, the avant-garde and opulent Orient-express-themed dining destination nestled at 26 Soi Sukhumvit 11, Khlong Toei Nuea, Watthana, is set to redefine the culinary landscape with the launch of its exceptional New WanderEast Menu, debuting on Valentine’s Day (14th February 2024) and every Wednesday thereafter for “Wander Wednesdays”.

The WanderEast Tasting Menu, a sequel to the first WanderEast launch series, takes the dining experience to unprecedented heights, embodying more refinement, elevation, and a deeper exploration of Thailand’s diverse ingredients and flavors. Culinary Director and Co-founder Ack Wongwich Sripinyo has expanded his already wide imagination to the corners of the country, creating a menu that not only satiates but also opens the imaginations of travelers through taste, with a particular focus on the vibrant flavors of Eastern Thailand.

Begin with the enticing starter, featuring double layers of fermented melon complemented by the rich essence of sun-dried catfish, or savor the succulence of sea prawns soaked in sweet fish sauce, paired with fresh mango and a touch of spicy shrimp sauce. Indulge in the succulent flavors of braised pork belly, encased in Cha-mung leaf croquettes.

The journey continues with a dish which boasts the perfect harmony of grilled scallops and a sour cauliflower sauce. Surely to be a guest and Instagram favorite is the Eastern Consommé soup, where sliced Orange Seville peel infuses the beef dumplings with deep aromatic notes.

The pre-main courses showcase a symphony of tastes, from the savory crab rice to the comforting milky rice porridge adorned with Thai wild almond and the star, the stewed pork belly, enriched with Eastern herbs and spices.

A fizzy grape granita serves as a refreshing palate cleanser, paving the way for the main course—a tantalizing blend of spicy squid ink rice, Cha-mung leaf, Trat’s chili curry sauce, Wagyu beef tenderloin, and sweet grilled tomato.

Conclude this epicurean journey with a dessert masterpiece—Three Ways of Tomato and Pandan rice pudding paired with sea salt Woffia ice cream.

The WanderEast Tasting Menu promises an exploration of taste that transcends boundaries and unveils the diverse flavors of Thailand’s Eastern region.

Burapa Eastern Thai Cuisine continues to serve their signature A La Carte menu daily, except Mondays they are closed and Wednesdays which is especially for the tasting menu, however, a small selection of the new WanderEast dishes will be available so that diners may still delight!

Available from 14th February – Valentine’s Day and every Wednesday thereafter.

  • Tasting Menu: 2,900 THB ++ (Mineral and Sparkling Water included)
  • Wine pairing: 1,300 THB ++ (Five selected glasses of wine to pair with our tasting menu)
  • Mocktails pairing: 700 THB ++ (Four selected Burapa signature mocktails to pair with our tasting menu.)
  • Cocktails pairing: 1,200 THB ++ (four selected Burapa signature cocktails to pair with our tasting menu.)

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

IGCAT Top Websites for Foodie Travelers

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Lappeeranta, Finland, February 5, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / Hungry for an exceptionally tasty adventure across borders? IGCAT has just announced the Top 10 Websites for Foodie Travelers 2024 so that you can be tempted to embark on a unique journey and discover fascinating food cultures!

Unveiled at a gala event held on 2 February in Lappeeranta (Saimaa, European Region of Gastronomy 2024, Finland), IGCAT’s Top 10 Websites for Foodie Travelers 2024 offer unique, creative, cultural and gastronomic experiences from across the globe. Food and wine tastings, farm or factory visits, cookery classes, craft-related experience, food and/or wine routes, food and/or wine markets or fairs, museums or heritage sites related to food etc. These are only some of the experiences that can be found on the awarded websites that strive to promote local gastronomy, producers and distinctive food cultures.

President of IGCAT, Diane Dodd PhD reported that “the Jury applauded all participating websites for their commitment to nurturing more meaningful relationships between locals and international visitors, by giving international visibility to niche food and culture experiences and moreover, supporting micro-businesses – especially in rural areas where the economic impact can make a real difference. Their contribution to sustainable territorial development is just part of their appeal but the creativity of food experiences never ceases to amaze us.”

In the presence of international guests and local stakeholders involved in Saimaa’s title year, the top 10 websites selected from global submissions were announced, providing a most tantalising list. The jury noted that nine of the ten submissions selected come from World and European Regions of Gastronomy and justified this, as these websites stood apart for their exceptional values related to supporting circular economies and their creativity. The winning websites are:

  • NJOY Catalonia from Catalonia, World Region of Gastronomy awarded 2025;
  • Äksyt Ämmät from Saimaa, European Region of Gastronomy awarded 2024;
  • RhodeTrip from South Aegean, European Region of Gastronomy awarded 2019;
  • Slovenia.info from Slovenia, European Region of Gastronomy awarded 2021;
  • Sawa Taste of Tunisia from Tunisia;
  • Winery Tasting Sicily from Sicily, European Region of Gastronomy awarded 2025;
  • Kos Locally Grown from South Aegean, European Region of Gastronomy awarded 2019;
  • Norway Food Region from Trondheim-Trøndelag, European Region of Gastronomy awarded 2022;
  • D.O. Saimaa from Saimaa, European Region of Gastronomy awarded 2024;
  • Cómete Menorca from Menorca, European Region of Gastronomy awarded 2022.

IGCAT’s international jury and criteria

The websites submitted to the 3rd edition of the Top Websites for Foodie Travelers competition were evaluated by an international jury of experts from IGCAT who assessed them according to a series of criteria such as usability, sustainability and creativity of the experiences offered, as well as their connection with the regions they promote.

The jury included: Dr. Edith M. Szivas (Switzerland/UK), Vice-President of IGCAT and expert in sustainable tourism; Levan Kharatishvili (Georgia), CEO and founder of the Creative Strategies Lab, and expert in cultural strategies, cultural heritage, and creative industries; Dr. Lidia Varbanova (Bulgaria/Canada), senior consultant, lecturer and researcher in arts, culture and the creative industries; Prof. Dezső Kovács (Hungary), expert and researcher in rural development, tourism development in rural areas, world heritage, wine tourism and beekeeping; Marina Simião (Brazil), Chief of Staff at Emater-Minas Gerais and expert in creative tourism; and Jorge Bernárdez (Spain), lecturer at EU Business School and expert in business, arts and tourism management, food and gastronomic networks.

A gala night to crown the winning websites

Attended by representatives of candidate and awarded World and European Regions of Gastronomy and local stakeholders, the gala event was hosted as part of the celebrations of Saimaa, European Region of Gastronomy 2024 that officially kicked-off their title year with an opening weekend full of events and surprises (2-4-February).

Held at Kehruuhuone restaurant in the Lappeenranta fortress, the Top Websites for Foodie Travelers 2024 award ceremony was moderated by Saimi Hoyer, Ambassador of Saimaa, European Region of Gastronomy 2024, and counted with the presence of Regional Mayor of South Karelia, Satu Sikanen; Director of Tourism and Marketing at the City of Lappeenranta, Mirka Rahman; Director for goSaimaa, Regional tourism development and marketing company, Katja Vehviläinen; and President of IGCAT, Diane Dodd PhD.

The ceremony culminated with a Taste Saimaa dinner specially designed for the occasion and hosted by CEO of goSaimaa, Katja Vehviläinen and Taste Saimaa Ambassador, Ulla Liukkonen, inspired by the local producers and nature.

Earlier in the day, a seminar was held with national and international speakers on the significance of the European Region of Gastronomy 2024 title for Saimaa and opportunities for international cooperation with other regions holding the award. Alongside, a food market was organised with producers from the Taste Saimaa Partner network exhibiting their products.

About IGCAT’s Top Websites for Foodie Travelers

By publishing an annual list of Top Websites for Foodie Travelers, IGCAT aims to: increase international visitors access to quality food and cultural experiences; give international visibility to niche food and culture experiences; and reward portals and apps that support micro-businesses and contribute to sustainable territorial development.

In doing so, IGCAT hopes to encourage the development of new and unique food experiences initiatives or start-ups, and provide inspiration to build innovative, creative and positive food experiences.

The Top 10 Websites for Foodie Travelers 2024 will be given international visibility and will be permanently promoted on IGCAT’s website and social media.

About the World/European Regions of Gastronomy
World/European Regions of Gastronomy, guided by IGCAT, are working together to strengthen food security through the celebration of distinctive food cultures; create employment by stimulating creativity and gastronomic innovation; nourish children and adults through culinary and cultural education; driving environmental sustainability in tourism, hospitality and agricultural sectors; supporting balance and sustainable tourism practices; highlighting and supporting expertise from within rural and urban communities, creating connections and sharing good practices; and contributing to community health and well-being.

About IGCAT
IGCAT aims to empower local communities by raising awareness of the importance of protecting and promoting distinct regional food, culture, arts and natural assets as part of sustainable and balanced tourism and development strategies. This is essential to safeguarding our planet, health, wellness and local economies.

IGCAT is a non-profit institute established in 2012, working with regional stakeholder consortiums in the fields of gastronomy, culture, arts and tourism. It counts on the expertise of a worldwide network of experts and works in partnership with specialised intergovernmental organisations.

IGCAT founded the World/European Region of Gastronomy Award and is the official secretariat for the World/European Regions of Gastronomy Platforms. Furthermore, the Institute has developed the European Young Chef Award, the World Food Gift Challenge, the Top Websites for Foodie Travelers Award and the international Food Film Menu.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Chefs Paco Ruano and Alonso Presents Creative Mexican Flavors and Fine Caviar at Ojo

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Chefs Paco Ruano and Alonso Presents Creative Fusion of Mexican Flavors and Fine Caviar at Ojo - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, January 23, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / In an exclusive collaboration between celebrated Mexican chef Francisco “Paco” Ruano together with chef Alonso Luna Zarate and Parisian caviar house Kaviari, Ojo at The Standard, Bangkok Mahanakhon is throwing an exclusive caviar-focused five-course dinner on Thursday, 8th February 2024.

Nestled in the heart of Paris, Kaviari is one of the world’s leading caviar houses. With a legacy rooted in the splendor of wild Iranian caviar, the family-run company offer only the best caviar sourced from around the globe. The night will start with a tasting round, where the prized ingredient will be served on its own as caviar bumps or with classic accompaniments. In the five-course dinner that’s to follow, Ojo’s Chef Paco Ruano and Chef Alonso will use Kaviari’s precious pearls to enhance traditional Mexican flavors, each dish paired with Aqua Panna or San Pellegrino water.

The opening set is a duo of Macadamia Tartlet with smoked cream, salsa de uña, Kristal caviar and nasturtium, and Tostada Huevona with A4 wagyu beef tataki, pickled chanterelles, Baeri caviar and chili ponzu. Next, guests will be served an elevated version of Mexican street-food favorite, Sope, made with bluefin tuna, ant eggs, burnt avocado, Oscietra caviar and epazote herb, followed by the delectable Uchepo Young Corn Tamal with stracciatella cheese, fresh cream, salsa roja and Kaviari’s buttery Transmontanus caviar obtained from white sturgeon. Grilled Turbot with atole-dashi sauce, Oscietra caviar and garlic flowers completes the savory part, while Platanos con Crema provides a sweet finale of grilled banana, palm sugar, fresh cream and dried and pressed Kaviari en Barre roe.

The Ojo X Kaviari dinner will take place at Ojo on 8th February from 6.00 pm to 11.00 pm. The price of a five-course set menu is THB 5,500++ per person, including Aqua Panna or San Pellegrino water pairings and a gift of mother-of-pearl caviar spoons from Ojo. Champagne pairing is available at a surcharge.

For more information, please visit https://ojobangkok.com/happenings/. To make a reservation, please call +66 2 085 8888

About The Standard, Bangkok Mahanakhon:
Bangkok’s spirit of innovation and unconventionality made the Thai capital the perfect locale for our Asia flagship, The Standard, Bangkok Mahanakhon. Located in one of the most iconic buildings in the city, the 155-room hotel is already a landmark. With rooms ranging from 40 sqm to a sprawling 144 sqm penthouse, a terrace pool, fitness center and spa, meetings rooms and a dynamic variety of food, drink and nightlife venues, The Standard, Bangkok Mahanakhon is a fit for any traveler, at any time of day or night. There’s the Parlor, the hub of the hotel for check-in and out, cocktails, work or lounging, the eclectic and unexpected Tea Room, American steakhouse classics at The Standard Grill, a new craft beer bar, Double Standard and award-winning Chinese cuisine, sparkling ambiance and impeccable wine list by Mott 32, and two remarkable sky-high dining experience from Ojo a Mexican-inspired restaurant directed by one of the finest chefs in Mexico to Sky Beach the highest alfresco rooftop bar in Bangkok.

About Standard International:
Standard International is the parent company of The Standard hotels. Created in 1999, The Standard hotels are known for their pioneering design, taste-making clientele, and unrelenting un-standard-ness. Launched originally in Hollywood, The Standard has now opened properties in marquee locations across the globe including in New York, Miami, London, the Maldives, and Hua Hin, The Standard, Ibiza and the brand’s Asia flagship, The Standard, Bangkok Mahanakhon. Standard hotels in Lisbon, Milan, Melbourne, Singapore, Dublin and Brussels are under development. The goal of every Standard project—be it a city hotel, a seaside resort, or a rooftop bar—is to defy convention, up the aesthetic stakes, and deliver an experience that only The Standard can. The Standard’s unconventional and playful sensibility combined with careful consideration of design and service details, have established its reputation as a pioneer in hospitality, travel, dining, and nightlife. Standard International also owns a majority stake in the Bunkhouse Group and The Peri hotels.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Blue Elephant Collaborates with Novotel Bangkok Airport Hotel

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Blue Elephant Collaborates with Novotel Bangkok Airport Hotel - TRAVELINDEXBangkok, Thailand, December 29, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Merry and Sustainable Festive Season Hampers until 6 January 2024. Novotel Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport Hotel, led by Mr. Christophe Geoffroy (3rd from left), General Manager, in collaboration with Blue Elephant Group’s Master Chef Nooror Somany Steppe (4th from left), launched ‘Merry & Sustainable Festive Season Hampers’ featuring the hotel’s finest cakes and cookies together with selected, premium Blue Elephant products as well as healthy drink items by Doi Kham at the hotel recently. Festive hampers are on sale at the hotel from now until 6 January 2024.

Pictured from left are: Ms. Teerawan Sansabai, Novotel Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport’s Marketing Communications Manager, Mr. Pierre Swennen, Mr. Christophe Geoffroy, Novotel Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport’s General Manager, Master Chef Nooror Somany Steppe, Mr. Andreas Hameder Novotel Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport’s Executive Chef, Mr. Cedric Besler, Novotel Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport’s Resident Manager and Ms. Wanida Kitjao Executive Secretary to Master Chef Nooror Somany Steppe.

About Blue Elephant
The story of Blue Elephant began as a result of the great passion for Thai food of Master Chef Nooror Somany Steppe, founding chef and director of the Blue Elephant Group. Blue Elephant opened its first restaurant in Brussels, Belgium in 1980 with Master Chef Nooror Somany Steppe, her husband Karl Steppe, who has always been passionate about Thai culture and Thai cuisine, and their good friends and partners Chai Wayno & Somboon

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Hungry Hub Expands Global Reach with Supply Partners

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Hungry Hub Expands Global Reach with Supply Partners - TOP25RESTAURANTS.comBangkok, Thailand, December 27, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Hungry Hub announces a landmark achievement at the “Hungry Hub’s Red Table Award 2023”, The Best Restaurant Award from 3 million customers. This marks a significant leap towards global expansion, with partnerships spanning 1,400 top-tier restaurants and hotels worldwide – Leveraging innovative booking platforms, Hungry Hub aims to capture both Thai and international tourist markets, broadening its partnership horizons – With user rates projected to double in 2024 and GMV target at 1.5 billion baht, Hungry Hub is set to redefine the dining experience on a global scale.

Hungry Hub, Thailand’s leading dining offer platform, is proud to announce its supply partnership and integration with renowned industry leaders in restaurant-hotel booking platform worldwide to reinforce Hungry Hub: Reserve with Google, OpenRice, KKDay, GoKoo, GetYourGuide, Klook, GlobalTix, Pelago, MyRealTrip, xplORe, and TagThai. This collaboration is expected to complete on first quarter of 2024, positioning it as a top dining destination for both Thai and foreign tourists. Hungry Hub is well-prepared to flip restaurant and hotel dining businesses into the Online Travel Agency (OTA) world, reflecting from demand of foreign tourists that are expected to step forward to Thailand more 35 million people in upcoming year. Hungry Hub is eager to participate as the one of positive factors to propel tourism industry and promote Thai economy continuously.

Mr. Surasit Sachdev, CEO of Hungry Hub, announced this collaboration in ‘Hungry Hub’s Red Table Award 2023’ that “This collaboration is the critical point for Hungry Hub and Thailand’s restaurant industry as tourist segment has always been challenging to tap into, previously limited to a few prestigious award-winning restaurants, dinner cruises, or renowned street food outlets. With this collaboration, it delivers more choices of quality restaurant in varied segments from street food to luxury dining that is loved by our local customers and reviewed over 250,000 times. Also, the exclusive benefit factor from Hungry Hub is what helps entice the tourist to make that final decision.”

“Our mission is to ensure every meal is a memorable experience. This collaboration accelerates us to one more step ahead to transform Hungry Hub into go-to platform for tourists seeking to deliver exclusive culinary experience endlessly.” Mr. Surasit said.

Currently, Hungry Hub partners with 1,400 restaurants across Thailand and have been booked by over 3 million customers. The average spending per customer is more than 1,000 baht. Hungry Hub has generated over 700 million baht this year for its partner restaurants and hotels, supported by nearly 1 million monthly active users. The Top Customer in 2023 has booked more than 100 times via Hungry Hub, spending over 300,000 baht. One of the principal objectives of Hungry Hub in 2024 is adding a new segment of user base – the tourist segment which currently accounts for 10% to be 50% by end of 2024. The key tourist markets for Hungry Hub’s focus will include China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Singapore, and South Korea.

“Moreover, Hungry Hub is highlighting its branding as the ultimate dining companion in restaurant and hotel scene for foreigners who travel to Thailand. The platform functionality is similar to an OTA and this collaboration with worldwide leading service providers, Hungry Hub is strengthened and all set to grant the magical experience for tourist to be engulfed with choices ranging from Buffets, Afternoon Tea, Rooftops, Riverside outlets and local favorites to cover their whole trip. On the other hand, Hungry Hub generally helps restaurants uplift their revenue by 20-30% compared to before joining Hungry Hub. This benefit for partners stems from the extensive user base of Hungry Hub, Critical Strategy as best companion with our partners, 360-degree of marketing for Thai and foreigner’s demand, acting as connector between entrepreneurs, restaurant and hotel exchanging knowledge among in the industry, contribution to make sustain revenue in Thai restaurant and hotel industries, and presenting worth and brand-new promotion for customers continually.” Mr. Surasit added.

Hungry Hub’s Red Table Award 2023 celebrates the success for the best alliance restaurants promoting with Hungry Hub: Stand-alone restaurant, Chain restaurant, Hotel restaurants, and Rooftop restaurant. The accolade is bestowed upon carefully chosen establishments, chosen through a rigorous selection process, taking into account feedback from millions of Hungry Hub users over the past year. These distinguished restaurants are recognized across 23 award categories by outstanding venues such as Copper Beyond Buffet, Great Harbour International Buffet, Baiyoke Sky Hotel, Audrey Cafe, and Rain Tree Cafe at The Athenee Hotel. Additionally, noteworthy recognition goes to exceptional bloggers contributing to the gastronomic scene.

About Hungry Hub
Hungry Hub is a leading online platform that connects diners with exclusive promotions and offers from a wide range of restaurants and hotels. With a mission to enhance the dining and hospitality experience, Hungry Hub provides a convenient and user-friendly platform for users to discover and book promotions at their favorite establishments. Hungry Hub currently works with 1,400 restaurant and hotel partners and has seated over 3 million diners to date sourcing over 2 billion baht to its partners.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News