The tables have been set, the ballots cast and while the final numbers are still being tallied, one thing is already abundantly clear — this year’s Readers' Choice Awards have gone off like a firecracker on New Year's Eve. In what can only be described as a bumper year for votes, participation has far exceeded expectations. A standing ovation to every reader who took the time to back their favourite local haunt, hidden gem or fine-dining institution. You've done your bit — and then some.
From cosy regional bistros with cult-like followings to high-concept city stalwarts redefining what it means to dine out in Australia today, the 2025 Awards are shaping up to reflect not just culinary excellence, but a genuine groundswell of community pride. In a new twist that’s equal parts democratic and delicious, this year will see two winners crowned in each category: one metro, one regional. It's a nod to the evolving landscape of Australian dining, where top-tier talent is just as likely to be plating up in a country town as it is in the heart of the city.
What’s most telling? The voters aren’t just casting votes for the usual suspects. This year, they’re asking for more. They're demanding the best of the best — not just the flashiest fit-out or the most Instagrammed dessert, but the venues that deliver consistently, passionately and with purpose.
Adding another layer of prestige, one venue from each state will be crowned the overall state winner — the venue that soared above the rest across all categories. These are the true standouts, the ones whose impact isn’t limited to their postcode or their niche. They’ve captured the collective imagination of voters and that’s no small feat.
Here’s the most important part: these awards aren’t decided by an elite panel in a closed-off boardroom. They’re chosen by you. Every espresso-sipping, wine-pairing, pork-belly-adoring one of you. The venues that rise to the top are there because their patrons — the lifeblood of their business — said they deserve it.
So while the votes are still being counted behind the scenes, take a moment to savour the fact that these results belong to you just as much as the winners. You've helped shape a snapshot of Australia's dining scene in 2025 — raw, refined and ready for the spotlight.
Watch this space. The winners are coming — and they’ll be ones you chose.
