Antwerp's renowned restaurant, The Jane, has once again been recognized as one of the top establishments in the culinary world, making it onto the prestigious 'World's Best 50 Restaurants'
list this year.
In the 21st edition of this highly anticipated ranking, The Jane, helmed by Chef Nick Bril, claimed the 39th spot. Although slightly lower than its 23rd position last year, The Jane remains a jewel in the Flemish city's culinary crown. Nick Bril himself was honored as Belgium's Chef of the Year in the previous year by the esteemed French restaurant guide Gault&Millau.
Describing the restaurant, the 'World's Best 50 Restaurants' website lauds The Jane's unique location on the premises of a former 19th-century military hospital. After an exquisite redesign, it now exudes the ambiance of a true gastronomic sanctuary and stands as one of the most architecturally stunning dining destinations worldwide. Chef-owner Nick Bril masterfully engages all the senses in this fine dining establishment, where up to 200 guests are welcomed daily.
The Jane specializes in (raw) fish and shellfish dishes, showcasing Chef Bril's Zeeland heritage while paying homage to French classics and drawing inspiration from Asian street food culture. The menu incorporates fresh produce cultivated by urban farmers who grow vegetables, fruits, herbs, and flowers on the rooftops of an old warehouse.
This year, The Jane proudly represents Belgium as the sole Belgian restaurant to secure a place in the top 50. Another Belgian establishment, the three-star restaurant Hof van Cleve in Kruisem, ranked 52nd, down from 27th place in 2022. Chef Peter Goossens continues to lead the kitchen until the end of this year.
In other notable mentions, Central restaurant in Lima, Peru, clinched the coveted title of the world's best restaurant, surpassing the previous winner, Geranium in Denmark. Lima itself showcased its culinary prowess with three additional restaurants making the list: Maido (6th), Kjolle (28th), which shares the same owners as Central, and Mayta (47th).
The 'World's Best 50 Restaurants' list, with the exception of 2020 due to the pandemic, has been an annual celebration of culinary excellence since 2002. A jury comprising over 1,000 chefs, specialized journalists, and restaurant owners determines the rankings. This year's compilation features restaurants from 24 territories across five continents, including 12 new additions that have earned their place among the world's finest dining establishments. Photo by Paul Hermans, Wikimedia commons.