Their expert evaluations influence consumer habits and help establish industry trends
The food writers and wine critics on Asia’s Most Influential list are leading the discourse about what to eat and drink. Their expert evaluations of dishes, drinks and experiences influence consumption habits, establish industry trends and enhance the reputations of chefs and restaurants. Their work, which spans recipe development, books, reports, podcasts and even documentaries, also sparks discussions on broader topics surrounding food, from its cultural meanings and social aspects to sustainability, sourcing and healthier ingredients.
Also read: These Asian tastemakers are behind the best dining experiences in the region
Liz Kao, founder, Taster (Taiwan)
Though she holds a master’s in law from Harvard University, Liz Kao chose to pursue her interests in food, launching her blog, Self-taught Gourmet, where she chronicled her dining experiences, before embarking on Taster, the dedicated food website that expands on her work and brand, which now includes several books, an e-commerce platform, a podcast, products and more.
In 2023, the food critic released the five-episode documentary, Taste Fine Taiwan, highlighting 14 restaurants and 17 chefs, including Taïrroir’s Kai Ho and Le Côté LM’s Lan Shu Chen. The programme, which Kao describes as “Taiwan’s first fine dining documentary”, explores Taiwan’s food culture, the impact of international evaluations on its food scene and the intricacies of fine dining itself.
Kao, of course, shares, her most up-to-date finds and recommendations on Instagram, where she recently lauded the black bear meat at Japan’s L’evo and the Berliner doughnuts from Taiwan’s Perfe’dough.
