Neil Perry now ‘the’ global restaurant icon
Neil Perry is officially an icon.
The Australian hospitality legend was announced as the winner of the Woodford Reserve Icon Award for The World's 50 Best Restaurant Awards 2024.
The awards which was held in Las Vegas is one of the industry’s most prestigious gongs and is voted for by an international panel of 1080 industry experts.
The award recognises outstanding contribution to the hospitality industry.
"Throughout my career, I've been incredibly lucky to work with some of the finest hospitality professionals in the world, doing what I love and creating memorable experiences for people to enjoy," Perry said of the award.
"I hope this award inspires everyone in our industry to keep going and to never give up."
In 40 years in the Australian restaurant scene he worked in some of Sydney’s top kitchens including Sails in Rose Bay, before opening his own venue – Blue Water Grill in Bondi – in 1986.
In 1989, Perry opened Aussie institution Rockpool which quickly gained a reputation as one of the country’s best restaurants.
In 2002, Rookpool was ranked the fourth best place to eat in the world by The World's 50 Best Restaurant Awards. A Melbourne venue was opened in 2006, followed by a venue in Perth.
Perry stepped away in 2020, but the brand continues to rank highly, voted as the eighth best steak restaurant in the world in May 2024.
Perry’s culinary prowess lies in his ability to infuse his deep appreciation for food with diverse cultural influences. His menus blend high-quality ingredients and expert craftsmanship with an approachable style, proving that exceptional cuisine need not be pretentious.
His recent venture, Margaret, exemplifies this philosophy. Named after his late mother, this "neighbourhood restaurant" offers diners a taste of Perry's mastery in combining fresh seafood with Asian flavours, earning it recognition as the third-best steak restaurant globally.
Since opening Margaret in 2021, Perry has expanded his culinary footprint on Double Bay's Guilfoyle Avenue. He launched the Baker Bleu bakery and plans to introduce two more venues in late August: Song Bird, an Asian-inspired diner, and Bobby's, a cocktail bar.
Perry is one of Australia's most celebrated chefs, having accumulated more Good Food Chef's Hats than anyone else in the country. His latest recognition solidifies his status.
Another Australian honoured at this year's The 50 Best Restaurants Awards is Josh Niland, whose innovative low-to-no waste seafood diner, Saint Peter, placed 98th on the longlist. For a complete overview of The World's 50 Best Restaurants Awards 2024, visit the official website.
Joanthan Jackson, 10th June 2024
