Richmond’s fine dining scene just hit another milestone.
Baan Lao Fine Thai Cuisine has once again been crowned Best Restaurant in Canada at the 2025 World Culinary Awards.
It marks the second consecutive year the Steveston restaurant has taken home the title.
The back-to-back recognition makes Baan Lao the first Canadian restaurant to win the award twice.
This places it alongside international icons like Le Bernardin, Atelier Crenn, and CORE by Clare Smyth.
Past Canadian winners have included St. Lawrence, Toqué!, and Alo.
Since opening in 2021, Baan Lao has been widely celebrated for bringing the artistry and hospitality of Royal Thai dining to Canada.
Led by chef-proprietor Nutcha Phanthoupheng, a former nurse and cancer researcher from Thailand, Baan Lao has built a global reputation for its refined approach to Royal Thai cuisine.
Nutcha’s culinary philosophy blends centuries-old recipes from Thailand’s royal court with high-quality local ingredients, presented through an intricate 18-course tasting menu.
Each dish is carefully plated on handcrafted tableware and paired with wine, tea, sake, or cocktails curated by top beverage consultants.
“I opened Baan Lao to help people understand the beauty of authentic Thai cuisine. Thai food is not only street food—fine dining is part of our culture and history. This award helps more people discover that, Nutcha shared.
This recognition caps off a year filled with wins for the Steveston restaurant.
Earlier this year, Baan Lao ranked No. 12 on the inaugural North America’s 50 Best Restaurants list and was named Best Restaurant in Western Canada.
The World Culinary Awards, now in its sixth year, celebrates excellence across global hospitality, spotlighting leading restaurants and culinary institutions around the world.
Voting is conducted by chefs, industry experts, and diners, with this year’s gala held on October 23 at Forte Village Resort in Italy.
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