Justin Fischer summarizes this year’s winners and losers

But what's your opinion? Let us know in the comments below...

It’s nothing but a piece of yellow paper held in a picture frame behind a thin pane of glass. It shouldn’t be that big of a deal, really. But it is! It wasn’t really until this year that I fully realized this fact. I monitored the polls every day and even I was surprised at how exciting it became at times. Some of the battles were incredibly close. Some only won by a number of votes I could count on four fingers. For others, it was a grudge match. They’d be miles ahead one day, only to be overtaken by their main competitor the next, and then recover again the following day.

Some were sleepers and sprinted to the finish line in the last week of voting. Some were out right deserved winners that you always knew would cruise it. It’s become a given for Da Marco. Even Marco knew he was going to win (just before the award, he positioned himself stage left, ready to accept the honor.) Vedas was another no brainer.

The greatest part of it all, however, had to be the upsets. Many supposed kings were dethroned. I didn’t think anyone would oust the Westin or Wagas, but ousted they were.  And yet, dear readers, some victories were boringly predictable. Here I hold you responsible. You need to get out more and explore this city’s amazing wining and dining scene! Paulaner do a fine job. I love their beers. But have you ever been to Kaiba or Southern Barbarian? Haiku make good sushi, but you need to check out Sushi Oyama. And folks, great fine dining isn’t restricted to Three on the Bund. Head south to Stiller’s, have an incredible dinner and view the Lujiazui skyline from a different angle.

Show/hide comments

Show/hide comment form