In a world where the dining experience has moved beyond eating for sustenance, luxury dining experiences stand as a testament to human creativity and indulgence. From the vineyards of Argentina to the fjords of Norway, these five lavish dining experiences from our clients are more than just a meal, but immersive experiences that challenge the palate and capture the imagination.
(Michelin) Star Dinner Under the Stars
At Grand Velas Los Cabos, Mexico
Dinner Under the Stars at Grand Velas Los Cabos offers an unparalleled over-the-top culinary experience featuring open flame cooking by the hotel’s two Michelin star chef Sidney Schutte. After a three-hour sunset cruise on the resort’s 55-foot Azimut yacht, diners return for a celestial dining experience. Recognized by NASA as one of the top 20 places for night-sky research, Los Cabos Baja Peninsula provides the perfect setting for viewing stars, planets, and constellations. Chef Sidney’s contemporary vision, paired with signature cocktails and premium wines, promises a dinner inspired by the surrounding beauty of Baja Sur. The exclusive experience starts at $30,550 USD for up to 10 people.
Chef’s Table Inspired by Art
At SB Winemaker's House & Spa Suites in Mendoza, Argentina
The heart of Argentine luxury beats in La VidA restaurant at SB Winemaker’s House & Spa Suites, pioneering winemaker Susana Balbo’s first foray into hotels, located in the famed wine region of Mendoza, Argentina. Chef Flavia Amad Di Leo creates a gastronomic journey inspired by the hotel’s signature art piece, the Tree of Life by Sergio Roggerone. The 14-course dining experience is influenced by the seven main elements of the Tree of Life, including the roots, trunk, flowers, birds, branches, fruits, and insects. Traditional Argentinian cuisine meets high-quality, sustainable, and organic ingredients. Guests of La VidA become interpreters of each dish, embracing free interpretation and concentrating their senses as each course builds. A 7-course menu is also available, both paired with Susana Balbo wines.
Norway’s Floating Expedition Dining Highlight
Recommended by Up Norway
Sustainable luxury travel curator Up Norway curates itineraries for its clients from beginning to end highlighting culinary hotspots all over the country. These days, Iris, located inside the floating art installation Salmon Eye, is a finite inclusion. The restaurant, heralded as expedition dining, stands as a marvel of modern architecture and culinary expertise nestled in the heart of Norway’s Hardanger fjord. Accessible only by boat, Iris invites guests to explore the challenges and solutions to the global food system through 18 carefully curated courses featuring hyper-local ingredients. Stylish yet informal, the restaurant's design blends with the surrounding landscape, while huge, curved windows offer mesmerizing views of the mountains.
Fine Dining Overlooking History from the 16th Century
At Hotel Excelsior in Dubrovnik, Croatia
Travelers can bask in Croatian culinary heritage at Hotel Excelsior’s fine dining restaurant, Sensus. But perhaps the true star of this restaurant is the exceptional backdrop of the city’s Old Town. From a perched location above the Adriatic, guests can watch the deep blues of the Adriatic Sea shimmer while enjoying modern interpretations of Mediterranean classics. Crafted from fresh local delicacies and paired with the finest Croatian wines from the extensive Sensus wine cellar, each dish is a masterful blend of tradition and innovation.
Rooftop Romance Overlooking the Eternal City (pictured)
At Sofitel Rome Villa Borghese in Rome, Italy
While all travelers to Rome can enjoy panoramic views of the city from the rooftop Settimo restaurant at Sofitel Rome Villa Borghese, those looking to indulge in even more romance can take over the birds eye view with its Proposal Package. Starting at $12,000 USD, the Proposal Package includes suite accommodations for one night, private use of the Settimo terrace for a Roman aphrodisiac tasting menu, chauffeured tour of Rome in a vintage Fiat 500, live violinist, poetry reading, and much more. Crafted by the hotel’s expert concierge, Agostino Sità, former president of the city’s Clefs d’Or, this unique experience promises a timeless memory.
