Yes, eating is something that you do in order to survive, but it should be so much more than that–it should be an experience. Food unites people, it ties together various cultures across the world, allowing the opportunity to share in a dynamic experience. Though you may be an American, when you travel to Italy and eat Italian food, you feel as if you have become an Italian.
If food is something you really relish, instead of experiencing it in your own kitchen, why not experience it while traveling around the world? No, there is nothing wrong with traveling to experience food. In fact, it can be quite a therapeutic and life-changing experience. And, if you are going to travel the world to experience food, don’t just stop at any old restaurant once you reach your destination–plan to eat at one of the most lavish establishments there in order to truly experience the food and the tastes of the culture.
Here is a look at 6 of the most extravagant restaurants around the world:
Majlis Al Bahar – Dubai
Specializing in Mediterranean fare, this restaurant will certainly provide you with an experience that will leave you speechless. Situated on the private island beach of the Burj Al Arab, the location is enough to knock your socks off. In fact, the location is so stunning that it needs no décor–all it needs is a table and some chairs. Choose from the decadently prepared Mediterranean or Middle Eastern foods that are features on the menu and soak up the flavor and the beauty of this part of the world.
- Inspirational Food / Foter / CC BY-NC
Alain Ducasse Au Plaza Athenee – Paris
Located on one of the most iconic streets in the world, the Champs-Elysees, Alain Ducasse Au Plaza Athenee is one of the premier restaurants in all of Paris. As soon as you walk into this restaurant, you’ll be greeted by the opulent décor of crystals and lavish furnishings. The menu is nothing short of spectacular and features some of the most quintessential Parisian foods, including caviar and escargot, which is expertly prepared by Christophe Saintagne, one of the premier chefs in the world.
Il Ridotto – Venice
You cannot discuss food without discussing Italy, and where can you find some of the most lavish cuisine in all of the country? Why, Il Ridotto in Venice. This restaurant is so lavish, in fact, that there it only caters to an intimate gathering of people at one time. The menu changes daily and features some of the most tempting Italian foods you will ever find.
Masa – New York City
New York is regarded as the melting pot of the world, and you can certainly experience the diverse cultures that make up this city when you dine here. If you have a taste for Japanese, you’ll want to check out Masa. This restaurant specializes in Japanese cuisine that is so authentic, you’ll think that you are dining in the heart of Japan. Make sure you make reservations far in advance, because this restaurant only seats 26 at a time.
Aprazivel – Rio de Janeiro
You’ll know you’re about to have a lavish dining experience when greeted by the monkeys, birds, and other exotic surroundings that Aprazivel offers. This is one of Rio de Janeiro’s leading restaurants. Here, you can dine on some of the most tantalizing Brazilian cuisine in all of the land.
The Source – Beijing
While in China, enjoy some of the most divine Sichuan food in all of Beijing at The Source. The setting is a courtyard loft and the menu is filled with Sichuan specialties that taste like nothing else you have ever experienced before.
These restaurants are simply a few of the most luxurious samplings around the world. Whether you’re in Europe, Asia, or the United States, you will never be disappointed when it comes to food selections.
Author: Tara Heath is a freelance writer in Southern California. As someone who loves to travel, she hopes to make it to some of the restaurants on this list, as well as others all around the world. She contributes health and beauty content to the Bellezza Spa blog.