Buzz
For avid food enthusiasts, this list is a must-have for your next getaway. Sampling dishes from diverse global destinations offers a profound connection to the culture and essence of each region. The blend of flavors and distinctive ingredients will leave you enchanted with every mouthful.
Discover ten extraordinary food experiences that will inspire you to use up all your vacation days and book a flight immediately. Don’t just take our recommendation—experience them firsthand!
10. Hurawlhi, Maldives: A Subaquatic Feast
If dining by the ocean is a treat, imagine eating beneath the waves. At Hurawlhi Resort in the Maldives, their Undersea Restaurant offers a unique experience 19 feet (5.8 meters) below the surface in a spacious glass tunnel. Surrounded by vibrant coral and marine life, the minimalist tables ensure the spotlight remains on the cuisine and the underwater spectacle.
A unique dress code is enforced here with an interesting twist: no shoes permitted. All guests must remove their footwear upon entry and leave them at the door.
The experience is well worth it. Unlike restaurants where the ambiance overshadows mediocre food, this place excels in both. The menu features a 5-course lunch and a 7-course dinner, with exquisite dishes like Alaskan king crab and Wagyu beef. Let’s hope the surrounding fish don’t mind what’s on your plate.
9. Alchemist, Copenhagen
You might be familiar with holistic medicine, but holistic dining is a whole new concept. At Alchemist in Copenhagen, science, art, and gastronomy merge to create an unforgettable culinary journey. It’s designed to be a sensory adventure that transforms your perception of food.
The restaurant aims to incorporate the principles of alchemy—purification and perfection—into every dish they serve.
Securing a spot at the Alchemist isn’t easy, as it’s not open year-round. Tickets are released in three-month blocks, and the waitlist is extensive. Reservations are limited to specific group sizes, so plan accordingly and bring a companion.
While the food is undoubtedly exquisite, the atmosphere might remind you of the eerie vibes from the 2022 horror film The Menu. Let’s hope they’ve mastered the art of crafting a perfect cheeseburger too.
8. Ultraviolet, Shanghai
Dining at Ultraviolet is like stepping into a Jackson Pollock masterpiece—chaotic, unpredictable, and brilliantly inventive. Equipped with one of Asia’s most advanced kitchens, the restaurant turns every element of the space into a multi-sensory adventure. From a dry-smell projector to a mysterious “bowl of tears,” the experience is as enigmatic as it is unforgettable.
Under the guidance of Chef Paul Pairet, the meal becomes a voyage through memories and emotions. He uses food as a medium to communicate, evoke laughter, and stir feelings. You might find yourself served a plate of gummy bears—expect the unexpected, as there are no boundaries here.
Planning to visit solo? Think again. The exact location remains a secret until your reservation date. Guests are only informed that it’s somewhere in Shanghai. You’ll first meet at a designated spot before being escorted to the venue. With just ten seats available per session, the experience includes an extravagant 20-course meal.
7. Soneva Kiri, Thailand
Soneva Kiri resort in Thailand offers a dining adventure tailored to every taste. From diverse menus to breathtaking views, the options are endless. At the Colourful Garden, enjoy a meal paired with a mixology class. Alternatively, Tuk’s Kitchen serves up fresh, locally sourced seafood with no fixed menu. Dine in a wine cellar with a sommelier or indulge at an ice cream wall—there’s something for everyone.
Each dining venue at Soneva Kiri showcases flavors from around the world. Whether you crave authentic Thai dishes or global cuisine, the resort delivers a culinary journey like no other.
Among the many unique experiences, the Treepod Dining stands out. You’ll be seated in a secure bamboo pod, hoisted into the rainforest canopy. For up to two hours, savor gourmet dishes while surrounded by stunning treetop views.
6. The Test Kitchen-Fledglings, South Africa
This dining experience stands out from the rest, and that’s part of its charm. Located in South Africa, The Test Kitchen-Fledglings operates on a unique model. They provide opportunities for aspiring chefs who often face barriers to entering the culinary world.
These budding chefs are offered paid roles and mentored by seasoned professionals, who teach them traditional methods and help them shine.
While à la carte options are available, the restaurant also features a special menu designed to showcase the talents of its young chefs, allowing diners to witness their growth. Despite being just a year old, critics are already singing its praises, applauding both the flavors and the atmosphere created by these rising stars.
5. Le Royal, Champagne, France
Upon entering Le Royal, prepare to be mesmerized by a stunning vista. The windows offer an unmatched view of Epernay and the scenic Marne Valley, creating a perfect setting for an extraordinary meal. Above, chandeliers with countless crystal pendants add a touch of sophistication, casting a radiant and inviting glow.
Le Royal boasts a Michelin Star, reflecting its dedication to culinary artistry. Led by Chef Paolo Boscaro, the restaurant transforms locally sourced vegetables and herbs into exquisite creations. Every dish is a celebration of the region’s fresh, vibrant produce, highlighting its flavors and colors.
Given the refined nature of the dining experience at Le Royal, a formal dress code is enforced. Leave casual footwear behind, and note that children under five are not permitted. However, a babysitting service is available, ensuring a tranquil and enjoyable meal for adults.
4. Dans Le Noir, London, UK
Dancing in the dark is one thing, but dining in the dark is an entirely different experience. As the name suggests, Dans Le Noir embraces this concept wholeheartedly, offering a unique and immersive culinary adventure.
Upon arrival, a visually impaired guide will escort you to your table in a pitch-black dining area. While you can inform them of any allergies or dietary restrictions, the menu remains a mystery. With your sight removed, your senses of smell and taste are heightened, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the experience. Lockers are provided to store purses and valuables, ensuring nothing is misplaced in the darkness.
The seating arrangement is communal, meaning you’ll likely share a table with strangers. Dans Le Noir considers this an integral part of the dining adventure. Additionally, the restaurant offers sensory workshops and wine tastings guided by a sommelier.
3. Cafe du Monde, New Orleans
Despite its small size, New Orleans feels like a world of its own, brimming with unique culture and exceptional cuisine. Cafe du Monde offers a menu that perfectly captures the essence of the city.
The twist? The cafe specializes in just one item. Beyond a steaming cup of coffee or freshly squeezed juice, their claim to fame is beignets, served in sets of three.
Imagine a golden, fluffy dough fried to absolute perfection. Beignets are not just pastries; they are a sensory delight. The magic happens with the first bite—crispy, warm dough meets the delicate sweetness of powdered sugar, leaving you longing for another.
Beignets embody the essence of New Orleans, a city celebrated for its vibrant energy and appreciation for life’s simple joys. With every bite, you can almost hear the soulful notes of jazz, transporting you to the lively streets of the French Quarter.
While Cafe du Monde may specialize in just one item, it does so exceptionally well. A word of advice: avoid wearing black if you plan to dine indoors!
2. Snow Crab Safari, Kirkenes, Norway
Set off on a thrilling Snow Crab Safari in the picturesque town of Kirkenes, Norway, where adventure awaits. Organized by the SnowHotel, this excursion lets you embrace your inner adventurer as you hunt for the prized red king crab, whether under the winter snow or summer sun.
Guided by a professional fisherman, you’ll traverse the frosty terrain in search of the majestic king crab. The excitement builds as you capture these impressive creatures, while your guide shares fascinating details about their behavior, anatomy, and the fragile ecosystem they inhabit. The adventure culminates in a feast featuring your freshly caught crab.
The Snow Crab Safari requires a minimum of two participants, and guests must be at least seven years old. The journey lasts around three hours, providing plenty of time to explore the Arctic’s beauty and forge unforgettable memories.
1. SingleThread, California
Securing a reservation at SingleThread requires vigilance—keep an eye on their newsletter. The effort pays off, as you can book a stay at their inn up to three months in advance. Their three Michelin-star restaurant serves an exquisite ten-course meal, a true culinary masterpiece.
With an on-site farm, SingleThread collaborates with the local community to cultivate hundreds of crops. This ensures that every ingredient in your meal is as fresh as can be.
Kyle Connaughton, the owner and head chef, collaborates with his wife, Katina, the lead farmer. Together, they are revolutionizing California’s culinary scene, both through innovative dishes at their restaurant and impactful contributions to their community.
In addition to fresh produce and stunning floral arrangements, you can explore handcrafted goods made by local artisans. Plus, SingleThread offers a pantry line, allowing you to bring their exceptional flavors into your own kitchen.
