From National Operations Manager, Joseph Steele.
Instituted by the Australian Good Food Guide in 1982, the Chef Hat Awards adopt a distinctive rating system that echoes the rigour of traditional French culinary evaluations. This system, focusing exclusively on the quality of food, offers diners a reliable guide to the finest culinary experiences across Australia.
The system scores restaurants out of 20 and is predicated on several key factors, all of which pivot around the culinary offerings. For an in-depth view of the criteria, read our guide here.The Ratings Decoded:
You may have seen the Chef Hat symbols with a score in the image. The number shown is the restaurant’s score out of 20. But what does the number actually mean?
19-18 (Superlative Food & Wine): This echelon is reserved for restaurants that have achieved internationally worthy acclaim. Dining here is not just a meal; it's a culinary pilgrimage, warranting a special journey. Restaurants in this category surpass a gastronomic experience for a truly cultural one.
17-16 (Exceptional Quality of Cuisine): Restaurants scoring in this range offer an exceptional quality of cuisine, meriting a detour. They showcase remarkable culinary skills, innovative dishes and a commitment to the highest standards of gastronomy.
15-14 (Food Quite Out of the Ordinary): Achieving a score in this bracket signifies that a restaurant offers food that is 'quite out of the ordinary'. It is a commendation for establishments that offer a dining experience worth stopping for, particularly noted for their distinct flavours and exceptional cooking.
13-12 (An Outstanding Restaurant in its Category): This rating applauds restaurants that are good in their specific category. These establishments are recognised for offering commendable dishes and a pleasant dining experience, making them worthy of recognition. This category represents less than 1% of restaurants in Australia.
More Than a Score:
For more than 35 years the Chef Hats have served many purposes. Primarily they uphold a level of culinary excellence, not only setting a benchmark but also encouraging Chefs and restaurateurs to aspire to higher standards.
The ratings also act as a trusted guide to exceptional culinary experiences, aiding in informed dining choices. Whether you are a local looking for something new or travelling to a new destination, it is always handy to know where the best venues are for easy dining suggestions.
Most importantly, these ratings contribute to Australia's culinary identity, celebrating and promoting the diverse and dynamic food scene. We are lucky to have an ever-growing hospitality sector, with fresh ideas and innovation fuelling the future of the culinary arts. These awards acknowledge and highlight those making an impact on the dining scene.
The Chef Hat Awards, with their unique rating system, not only honour the best in Australian dining but also shape the culinary landscape. They are a testament to the dedication and skill of Chefs and the evolving palates of diners. In understanding these ratings, you can gain an insight into the soul of Australian gastronomy – a world where excellence is not just pursued but celebrated.
