As travel enthusiasts, we’ve all had the experience of stumbling upon a hidden gem that leaves us speechless. For foodies and travelers alike, discovering the best restaurants to try local delicacies is an essential part of exploring new destinations. When good food meets art, design, and breathtaking views, the result is truly unforgettable.

In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey to the world’s most spectacular and incredible restaurants, each with its own unique charm and story to tell. From cliffside eateries in Croatia to gondola restaurants in New Zealand, get ready to embark on a gastronomic adventure that will leave your taste buds singing.

20. Nautika, Dubrovnik (Croatia)

Perched on a cliff overlooking the Adriatic Sea, Nautika is a stunning restaurant in Dubrovnik that specializes in Mediterranean cuisine with a focus on haute cuisine. Enjoy breathtaking views of the sea and fortresses while savoring exquisite dishes.

Address: Brsalje ul. 3, 20000, Dubrovnik, Croatia
Contact: +385 20 442 526

19. Altitude at Shangri-La, Sydney (Australia)

Located in the heart of Sydney, this premium restaurant offers spectacular views of the Harbour Bridge and Opera House while serving excellent Australian contemporary cuisine.

Address: Shangri-La Hotel, 176 Cumberland St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
Contact: +61 2 9250 6123

18. The Grotto, Krabi (Thailand)

Imagine dining in a cave watching the sunset over the sea – this is what you can experience at The Grotto in Krabi, Thailand. Enjoy exceptional Thai cuisine and fresh seafood while being surrounded by nature.

Address: 214 Moo 2, Tambon Ao-Nang, Amphoe Maung, Krabi, 81000, Thailand
Contact: +66 75 620 740

17. Turandot, Moscow (Russia)

This luxurious restaurant in the heart of Moscow offers an extraordinary experience with Asian-fusion cuisine and stunning gold furnishings inspired by Louis XVI, Ming dynasty, and Imperial Russia.

Address: Tverskoy Blvd, 26, str. 3, Moscow, Russia
Contact: +7 495 739-00-11

16. Ali Barbour’s Cave Restaurant, Diani Beach (Kenya)

Located in a cave from 100,000 years ago, this restaurant offers a unique atmosphere for dinner with excellent lobster and crustaceans.

Address: Ali Barbours Rd, Diani Beach, Kenya
Contact: +254 714 456131

15. Asiate, New York City (USA)

Perched on the 35th floor of the Mandarin Oriental Hotel, this panoramic restaurant offers stunning views of Central Park and Manhattan skyscrapers while serving excellent Asian fusion cuisine.

Address: Mandarin Oriental, New York, 80 Columbus Cir, New York, NY 10023, USA
Contact: +1 212-805-8881

14. La Sponda, Positano (Italy)

This restaurant is located within the hotel Le Sirenuse and offers stunning views of the sea with an elegant and refined dining room.

Address: Via Cristoforo Colombo, 30, 84017 Positano
Contact: 089 875066

13. Mozaic, Bali (Indonesia)

This restaurant is a unique and romantic destination in Ubud, serving local ingredients combined with French cuisine.

Address: Jl. Raya Sanggingan, Ubud, Kec. Gianyar, Bali, Indonesia
Contact: +62 361 975768

12. Grotta Palazzese, Polignano a Mare (Italy)

This panoramic restaurant is located inside the cave and offers breathtaking views of the crystal-clear waters of Polignano a Mare.

Address: Via Narciso 59, 70044 Polignano a Mare (BA)
Contact: 080 4240677

11. The Rock, Zanzibar

This incredible restaurant in Zanzibar will give you an unforgettable experience with delicious seafood dishes and cocktails while dining directly on the beach.

Address: Michanwi Pingwe Beach, Michamvi 753, Tanzania
Contact: +255 776 591 360

10. Le Barachois, Prince Maurice (Mauritius)

This enchanting restaurant in Mauritius offers a breathtaking view while dining “floating” on the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean.

Address: Route Choisy, Poste de Flacq, Mauritius
Contact: +230 402 3636

9. The Dining Pod, Koh Kood (Thailand)

This restaurant is another unique location in Thailand, where you can dine from a bamboo nest elevated among the trees of the rainforest.

Address: RO Pho Cho Trat 4107 Rd, Ko Kut, Ko Kut District, Trat 23000, Thailand
Contact: +66 82 208 8888

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8. Skyline, Queenstown (New Zealand)

This gondola restaurant is famous for its stunning views of the entire city of Queenstown while serving delicious New Zealand cuisine.

Address: Brecon St, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand
Contact: +64 3-441 0101

7. El Farallon, Cabo San Lucas (Mexico)

This oceanfront restaurant offers an unforgettable experience with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and excellent seafood.

Address: Camino del Mar 1, Pedregal, 23452 Cabo San Lucas, B.C.S., Mexico
Contact: +52 624 163 4300

6. Sheesh Mahal, Udaipur (India)

Located in the luxurious Leela Palace, this restaurant offers stunning views of Lake Pichola and excellent Indian cuisine.

Address: Lake Pichola, Udaipur, Rajasthan 313001, India
Contact: +91 294 670 1234

5. Le Jules Verne, Paris (France)

This unique restaurant is located at the 2nd floor of the Eiffel Tower and offers breathtaking views of Paris while serving fantastic French cuisine.

Address: Tour Eiffel, Avenue Gustave Eiffel, 75000 Paris, France
Contact: +33 1 45 55 61 44

4. Sirocco, Bangkok (Thailand)

Located at the 63rd floor of the State Tower, this restaurant offers stunning views of the city and excellent seafood.

Address: 1055 State Tower, Silom Road, Bang Rak, Bangkok 10500, Thailand
Contact: +66 2 624 9555

3. Le Panoramic, Chamonix (France)

This gondola restaurant offers breathtaking views of the snowy peaks of Mont Blanc while serving excellent French cuisine.

Address: Le Brévent, 74400 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, France
Contact: +33 4 50 53 44 11

2. Turandot’s sister restaurant, Gulliver’s, Istanbul (Turkey)

This enchanting restaurant in Istanbul offers breathtaking views of the Bosphorus Strait while serving traditional Turkish cuisine.

Address: Istiklal Caddesi No. 24, Beyoğlu, 34430 Istanbul, Turkey
Contact: +90 212 377 1000

1. Skyline’s sister restaurant, Cloud 9, Queenstown (New Zealand)

This gondola restaurant is famous for its stunning views of the entire city of Queenstown while serving delicious New Zealand cuisine.

Address: Brecon St, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand
Contact: +64 3-441 0101

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What makes a restaurant truly unforgettable?
A: A combination of breathtaking views, exquisite food, and an exceptional atmosphere that leaves you speechless.

Q: How do I choose the best restaurants for my travel itinerary?
A: Research online reviews, ask locals for recommendations, and consider factors such as cuisine, location, and price range.

Q: Can I dine at these restaurants without making a reservation?
A: Highly recommended to make reservations in advance, especially during peak season or on weekends.

Q: Are the prices of these restaurants reasonable?
A: Prices vary greatly depending on the restaurant, location, and time of day. Be prepared for splurges or budget-friendly options.

Q: Can I book a table at these restaurants online?
A: Yes, most restaurants offer online booking through their websites or third-party platforms like OpenTable.

Q: Are there any vegan or vegetarian options available at these restaurants?
A: Yes, many of the listed restaurants have vegan or vegetarian options, but it’s best to check with each restaurant for their menu and availability.

Q: Can I take photos at these restaurants for social media or personal use?
A: Please check with each restaurant for their photography policy, as some may have specific rules or restrictions.

Q: Are there any tips or recommendations for dining etiquette at these restaurants?
A: Yes, be respectful of local customs and traditions, dress code, and table manners to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone.

Photo of author
from the United States, she developed a love for travel early on through family road trips and weekend adventures. Over the years, she has lived in several countries, with South Africa, Amsterdam, and Argentina holding a special place in her heart. Now based in London, UK, she continues to share her experiences through her writing, focusing on both well-known destinations and hidden gems. Through her blog and contributions to NationalTraveller.com, Olivia hopes to inspire others to explore the world with curiosity and an open mind.

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