How We Rate Fine Dining Restaurants - Our Scoring System!
Values out of /100
At S3, we’re setting out to bring clarity and consistency to fine dining reviews. When it comes to deciding which restaurants earn top ratings, many established publications leave the process vague, and the criteria behind awards or stars can feel like a mystery. We believe fine dining experiences deserve a fair and transparent scoring system—one that’s clearly outlined, measurable, and focused on the elements that matter most.
With that in mind, we’ve created a rating system that breaks down the dining experience into categories we believe are essential to help you evaluate the true value of a restaurant. From the food itself to the ambiance, design, and service, our scoring approach covers every angle, allowing you to compare restaurants with confidence. Here's how we’ve designed it to give you a better understanding of our experience.
How We Score Fine Dining Dinners
Our scoring system is designed to capture every nuanced aspect of a fine dining experience, broken down into 8 distinct categories for a maximum score of 100 points. Here’s a look at what we consider:
1. Atmosphere /10
How does the restaurant make you feel? This category isn’t just about décor or layout; it’s about the intangibles that create a memorable vibe, from music and lighting to staff interaction. A low score here might mean a sterile, unwelcoming setting, while a top score reflects a truly immersive, otherworldly experience.
2. Design /10
The visual appeal, functionality, and uniqueness of the restaurant are essential. We consider everything from the architecture to tableware, lighting, and art. Think of it as the difference between a chain restaurant and one custom-built by world-class architects with carefully curated aesthetics.
3. Food /30
Food holds the most weight. We evaluate flavour profiles, ingredient quality, creativity, and balance. Low scores indicate poor preparation or low-quality ingredients, while high scores honour dishes with exceptional flavour complexity and innovation.
4. Beverage Program /10
A strong beverage program complements the food. This includes wine diversity, innovative cocktails, and non-alcoholic options. We assess the wine pairings, craft of cocktails, and thoughtful details like glassware. Each drink should enhance, not distract from the meal.
5. Service /20
A welcoming and attentive staff can transform a meal. This category includes everything from knowledge of the menu to the warmth of the team. High scores are reserved for service that feels genuine and seamless. Anything below a 5 often signifies discomfort and an unenjoyable experience
6. Wow Factor /5
The “Wow” moment is hard to define but instantly recognizable. We’re looking for experiences that make you pause—a unique dish, an incredible view, or a surprising sensory experience. Only the rarest experiences earn a top score here.
7. Sustainability /5
This category covers eco-responsibility, sourcing, and ethical practices. High scores go to restaurants using local, seasonal ingredients with a commitment to reducing waste and energy use. A low score signals a lack of attention to these important practices.
8. Overall Value /10
Was the experience worth the price? This is a relative measure, not an absolute one. A high score means the experience was remarkable, regardless of cost. Low scores often reflect a mismatch between price and quality.
S3 Scoring System
S1: 50 - 69
S2: 70 - 89
S3: 90 - 100
Our ratings aim to give you detailed insights and help you make the most informed decisions for special dining experiences. Enjoy, explore, and feel free to share your thoughts with the S3 family!
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