El Chato in Bogotá takes the No.1 spot in Latin America's 50 Best Restaurants 2025, sponsored by S.Pellegrino & Acqua Panna
The culinary scene in Latin America has reached new heights with the announcement of the 2025 Latin America’s 50 Best Restaurants list, where El Chato in Bogotá claimed the prestigious No.1 spot. The ceremony took place in Antigua, Guatemala on December 3, 2025, marking the first time the event was held in this historic city. Sponsored by S.Pellegrino & Acqua Panna, the event showcased the vibrant gastronomic talent from across the region.
Leading the charge at El Chato is chef Álvaro Clavijo, whose contemporary approach to Colombian cuisine has garnered international acclaim. The restaurant is celebrated not only for its culinary excellence but also for its dedication to sourcing local ingredients and supporting regional producers. Clavijo’s innovative dishes have placed Colombian gastronomy firmly on the global culinary map.
The list highlights restaurants from a total of 21 cities, with Buenos Aires emerging as a culinary powerhouse, boasting eight restaurants within the top 50. Lima follows closely with seven entries, while Santiago contributes five. Among the notable mentions, Kjolle in Lima secured the No.2 position, recognized as The Best Restaurant in Peru. Meanwhile, Don Julio in Buenos Aires claimed the No.3 spot, earning the title of The Best Restaurant in Argentina.
Several new establishments made their mark this year, with Casa Las Cujas from Santiago debuting at No.14 and winning the Highest New Entry Award. Other newcomers include Yum Cha (No.28), Demo Magnolia (No.31), and Karai by Mitsuharu (No.45) from Santiago, along with Arami (No.48) from La Paz and El Mercado (No.27) from Buenos Aires.
Special awards were also distributed during the event, acknowledging exceptional contributions to the culinary field. Cosme in New York earned the Highest Climber Award, rising 19 positions to No.9 on the list. Rodolfo Guzmán of Boragó (No.6) received the Icon Award for his influence on modern Chilean cuisine. Other honorees included Bianca Mirabili of Evvai (No.20), recognized as Latin America’s Best Pastry Chef, and Alejandro Chamorro of Nuema (No.10), who won the Estrella Damm Chefs’ Choice Award. Additionally, Tássia Magalhães was named Latin America’s Best Female Chef, while Maximiliano Pérez took home the title of Latin America’s Best Sommelier.
The 50 Best organization collaborates with Deloitte as its official independent adjudication partner, ensuring the integrity of the voting process, which includes insights from over 300 regional experts. Craig Hawtin-Butcher, Managing Director for 50 Best, expressed his delight in celebrating El Chato’s achievement, saying, “We are truly delighted to celebrate El Chato as The Best Restaurant in Latin America 2025. Our sincerest congratulations to Álvaro Clavijo and his entire team for creating such a special space that has brought Colombian cuisine to the forefront of the international stage.”
The full list of restaurants and additional information can be accessed through the official 50 Best media center.
