Worlds 50 Best Restaurant's 2015: As it happened

By Sophie Witts

- Last updated on GMT

The winning 50 restaurants celebrate
The winning 50 restaurants celebrate

Related tags Chef

As the global culinary community descended on London's Guildhall last night to find out who made the list of the Worlds 50 Best Restaurants, BigHospitality was on hand to report the action.

As the guests arrived some of the international chefs gave their views on the UK dining scene.

Daniel Humm of New York's Eleven Madison Park said that when in London he made sure to enjoy afternoon tea at Claridge's and dinner at The Ledbury.

daniel-humm

Massimo Bottura, who yesterday (1 June) announced his three Michelin-starred restaurant Osteria Francescana would be popping-up in London​ in June, explained what so many chefs liked about working in London.

René Redzepi, whose restaurant Noma has held the number one spot four times, praised the UK's offering but warned that the expense of London could put off younger talent.

On news that the World's 50 Best Restaurants will be in held in New York for the first time next year, Redzepi said: "For me personally London is obviously an easier flight, but New York knows how to throw a party!"

Joan Roca of El Celler de Can Roca, said: "As a strategy it is brilliant and gives credibility to the awards. I'm very happy with this move."

The Awards

Presenter Mark Durden-Smith was on hand to announce the list, with a number of special awards being given out.

Sydney's Sepia, number 84 on the list and recently named Australia's top restaurant by The Australian Financial Review, received the One to Watch Award.

Copenhagen's Relae was recognised for its sustainability achievements.

Helene Darroze was named the World's Best Female Chef, and later said she planned to have more female than male chefs in her restaurants within a few weeks.

Daniel Boulud was received a lifetime achievement award. The chef, who owns restaurants in nine cities worldwide, said: "Rankings are not why I got in to this business, but it is nice to be recognised. I still have a lot to accomplish, I'm only halfway there."

Rene Redzepi's Noma was knocked off the top spot to number three, with Massimo Bottura's Osteria Francescana in second place.

Finally, El Celler de Can Roca reclaimed its title as the World's Best Restaurant.

The three Roca brothers, who co-run the winning restaurant, said they were 'very suprised' to win and that Mediterranean cuisine was experiencing 'a moment of enlightenment'.

Celebrations in their native Spain were already underway, with Joan Roca telling the press that the brother's mother was being 'bathed in Cava' as they spoke.

Redzepi was gracious in his defeat in the rankings, and thanked his restaurant team.

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