Two Indonesian Restaurants Shine in Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2026 List

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The Ministry of Tourism highlighted Indonesia’s achievements in the international culinary scene after two Indonesian restaurants were included in the Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2026 list and an Indonesian pastry chef received a special award.

“Two Indonesian restaurants made the Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2026 list, and an Indonesian pastry chef won an award. This shows that Indonesian gastronomy is competitive in the global culinary world when it comes to innovation, quality, and storytelling. Cuisine is part of the travel experience, and Indonesia has the potential to grow as a world-class gastronomic destination,” said Tourism Minister Widiyanti Putri Wardhana in Jakarta on March 27, 2026, as quoted on the ministry’s official website.

The announcement was made in Hong Kong on March 25, 2026. August Restaurant in Jakarta ranked 42nd, climbing from 49th in 2025, while Locavore NXT in Ubud, Bali, rose to 44th from 92nd last year.

August, led by Chef Hans Christian, is located in Sequis Tower, SCBD, and is known for its contemporary culinary approach rooted in Indonesian flavors. Locavore NXT has been recognized for its eco-conscious, hyper-local concept, emphasizing sustainability and the selective use of local ingredients.

Indonesia also celebrated Ardika Dwitama, who won the 2026 Asia’s Best Pastry Chef Award. His creations highlight seasonality and local ingredients, including jasmine sencha, orange and yogurt pastries; sourdough ice cream with mulberry and cashew; and sticky rice pudding with passion fruit granita and fermented pineapple jelly.

The Ministry of Tourism stated that these achievements strengthen Indonesia’s position as a leading gastronomic tourism destination in Asia under the Wonderful Indonesia initiative. The ministry continues to promote locally based culinary wealth, develop culinary destinations, and increase international exposure for Indonesian culinary industry players.

“This achievement is expected to inspire more Indonesian culinary industry players to continue elevating Indonesia’s local identity,” said the minister. ***