Ava Lyn

Hanaougi Bettei Iiyama is a traditional ryokan in Hida Takayama that prioritises personal service over scale. With only 15 guest rooms, dedicated attendants, private onsen baths and seasonal kaiseki dining, it offers one of the most intimate introductions to Japanese hospitality in the region.

Alinea at 21 is a restaurant in transition: less spectacle, more intent. Grant Achatz leans into bold, global flavours with precision, though the 22-course menu can feel overwhelming. This is Alinea pushing forward, not standing still.

1887 by André Chiang at Raffles Hotel redefines dining with a flexible menu, vibrant service, and refined local flavors. Highlights include inventive starters, thoughtful desserts, and a standout coffee program. Not Restaurant André, but a fresh, engaging concept worth revisiting.