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Cuisine, Luxury Journeys

10 Best Fine Dining Restaurants Around The World

July 22, 2024 by Lucy Thackray No Comments
Food at Mayta restaurant, Lima, Peru

Some of us have bucket lists, others have “to eat” lists – and these fine dining restaurants are some of the most ravishing places around the globe to share a meal. From experimental Scandi venues to classic Italian cuisine, via restaurants drawing on the indigenous and native plants and techniques of their country, you can count these 10 stops as a cultural experience in themselves.

Le Monzù, Capri, Italy

Perched on a dramatic cliff with sunset views, Le Monzù is a showstopper. A hotel restaurant in the Le-Corbusier-designed Punta Tragara hotel, it attracted one Michelin star in 2019. Now, head chef Antonio Pedana’s dainty take on Neapolitan and Caprese cuisine includes octopus ragu served on mezzipaccheri pasta, cuttlefish with sea urchins and green apple, and “milk and cookies”, a deconstructed biscuit dessert with hot and cold creamy foams. The eight-course Labyrinth of Flavors tasting menu will take you through the best of Padana’s creations. Luxury Gold clients get to visit Le Monzù on Day four of our Ultimate Italy journey.

La Colombe, Cape Town

The drive to this restaurant, on the Silvermist wine estate in Constantia, hints at the fine dining experience that awaits: a minimalist white conservatory, views of forested mountainside, and imaginative plates served on smooth-edge, shell-like ceramics. Head chef James Gaag crafts little canapes inspired by snacks from South Africa’s Cape Malay culture, followed by the signature “Tuna la Colombe” dish, unfurled in a tuna tin but revealing high-end seared Bluefin tuna with king crab and caviar. Dishes are inspired by Gaag’s travels and the wine list, naturally, is ample and strong on South African vintages.

Food at Mayta restaurant, Lima, Peru

Food at Mayta restaurant, Lima, Peru

Alchemist, Copenhagen, Denmark

With two Michelin stars in one of Europe’s premier dining cities, Alchemist isn’t just a dinner, it’s a theatrical experience. Six hours, 50 bites, different locations around a labyrinthine industrial building, video screens on the ceiling… as fine dining restaurants go, it’s quite a head-spinner. You might eat freeze-dried butterflies (head chef Rasmus Munk is championing them as a future sustainable protein source) or what looks like a plate of plastic junk (but is actually grilled cod jaw with a “bag” made from dehydrated cod bouillon). There’s a strong sustainability message, but the performance trips through emotions, memory and even interpretive dance.

We also think you’ll like: How Do Restaurants Get Awarded a Michelin Star?

Mayta, Lima, Peru

A contemporary Peruvian restaurant in the country’s capital, Mayta takes plenty of inspiration from nature. Weaving native leaves, moss, rocks bark and flowers into the restaurant’s dish presentations, chef Jaime Pesaque conjures up dishes like scallop with leche de tigre, grilled eggplant in a smoky broth or Amazonian paiche fish cheeks in a rich glaze. This fine dining restaurant’s name means “Noble Land” in the indigenous Aymara language of the Andes, so it’s Peru’s heritage and character that’s being celebrated in its fine dining experience – all among nature-inspired interiors of plants and hanging baskets.

Belcanto, Lisbon

Portugal’s capital is an underrated fine-dining treasure trove, and this restaurant in the Bairro Alto district has the two Michelin stars to prove it. Helmed by chef José Avillez, the space itself is all wood-paneled, parquet-floored, mirrored grandeur, while the tasting menu reinvents several Portuguese classics. Among them are pot-au-feu, with meats, sausages and potatoes in a slow-simmered dish, and Avillez’s grandmother’s rice pudding. But also expect intriguing bites like crunchy seaweed with barnacles, or partridge escabeche.

A “heartbeat” themed interior at Alchemist restaurant, Copenhagen

Oteque, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Atmospherically set in a 1930s house in Rio, this restaurant from Japanese-Brazilian chef Alberto Landgraf is all about fish and seafood. Oysters with brazil-nut milk and green apple, monkfish with burrata, glazed turbot, sea urchin with mussel cream… let’s just say you have to love the fruits of the sea to get on board with this one. Styled with Japanese flair and the star of the show might be the venue’s playlist: a grunge-rock riot of Smashing Pumpkins, Pink Floyd and Judas Priest you won’t find in most fine dining restaurants.

We also think you’ll like: 11 of the Best Sustainable Fine Dining Restaurants in the World

DiverXO, Madrid, Spain

With ice-white interiors, dramatic curtained tables and wacky art, this avant-garde Madrid restaurant has no less than three Michelin stars. The dining room feels like a blank canvas for the colourful cuisine that emerges from the kitchen: head chef Dabiz Muñoz spins stories across a 26-course menu that might include mini caviar curries with sauces in miniature pans, beef rib soup dumplings or coconut ganache with black garlic. Quirky animal sculptures and figurines from flying pigs to chrome ants set the tone for something weird but wonderful.

Frantzen, Stockholm, Sweden

Frantzen’s head chef, Bjorn Frantzen, was a chef in the Swedish army before taking on the fine dining world. Here he creates New Nordic cuisine with Japanese and French elements across a three-floor dining room of dreams: canapes are served in a comfy lounge before you’re shown to a chilled counter, with all the ingredients that will be used in your tasting menu on display. One of the more expensive menus on this list, it’s not for the faint hearted, but whimsical dishes include a truffled French toast, pumpkin macaron with foie gras and pork chawanmushi (a Japanese egg custard). Wine list connoisseurs will also appreciate the thousand or so wines on offer.

@restaurantfrantzen / Instagram

Den, Tokyo, Japan

One of the best restaurants in Tokyo, this creative spot recently earned a Michelin Green Star for its sustainability efforts, on top of the two Michelin stars it already held. The “Dentucky Fried Chicken” is probably the most famous dish, a deep-fried chicken-wing dumpling with sticky rice and chicken ginseng soup, served in a faux takeaway carton. But there’s plenty more to this modern update on the traditional Japanese kaiseki form, including clay-pot-cooked rice and bamboo shoots cooked two ways. The dining room is small and minimalist, with a counter facing the open kitchen. Chef Zaiyu Hasegawa says his main goal is “to make others happy”, and you’re sure to leave with a smile on your face.

Don Julio, Buenos Aires, Argentina

Not all fine dining restaurants are futuristic spaceships of white and chrome: this traditional Buenos Aires parrilla (steakhouse) has a classic green-striped canopy and a cosy, brick-lined dining room trimmed with wine bottles. It’s all about the meat here: different cuts of steak, morcilla blood sausage, provoleta cheese and even vegetables cooked on the vast, smoky parrilla grill. The wine list draws on a 60,000-strong cellar and owner-chef Pablo Rivero has done great work when it comes to sourcing sustainable beef and working with the Argentinian cattle farming world. The olde-worlde looks mean it has atmosphere in spades. All of this adds up to one Michelin star, well deserved.

We also think you’ll like: This Country Takes the Crown for the Most Michelin Starred Restaurants in 2024

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Latin America, Luxury Journeys, Make Travel Matter

These Hotels Put a Five-Star Spin on Peruvian History

July 4, 2024 by Lucy Thackray No Comments
Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo hotel

You may know it as the ancient land of the Incas, but much of the culture and heritage of Peru – arguably South America’s top bucket-list destination – is shrouded in mystery. One way to tap into the rest of Peruvian history and culture is to stay at one of the country’s most authentic lodges, hotels that wear their conservation of tradition as a badge of honor. 

Two of the most committed properties are Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo, near the Incan citadel of the same name (the epicentre of Peruvian history), and Palacio del Inka in Cusco. Guests on Luxury Gold’s in-depth Treasures of the Incas tour will get the chance to stay a leisurely two nights at each property, each stay a chance to really get under the skin of Peruvian culture. Atmospheric and filled with local detail, each property aims to conserve Peruvian history and educate their guests on how people lived, then and now. Here’s what you can expect from a stay.

Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo hotel

The walkway at Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo

Finding the Lost City

Inkaterra’s founders championed ecotourism long before it was a travel buzzword. Starting with a lodge in the Amazon rainforest, José Koechlin von Stein then opened the brand’s Machu Picchu property in the 1990s, determined to hire local people, assess and protect local wildlife and biodiversity, and create a captivating experience for guests visiting the Incan citadel.

The feeling of stepping back in time starts on arrival. Styled like a traditional Andean mountain village of 83 casitas, the hotel is tucked into 12.3 acres of pristine cloud forest. Rooms with private terraces and plunge pools have little touches such as fireplaces, cotton robes and Andean slippers crafted from recycled materials. In the authentic Unu Spa (meaning “water” in the native Quechua language), only 100% natural ingredients are used; Andean species including mint, eucalyptus and orchids are used to tap into traditional cures and therapies used throughout Peruvian history. After a day seeing the archaeological site, you can retreat to the Andean Sauna, a small, thatched mound heated by warmed river stones and infused with eucalyptus. 

Rustic interiors at the Inkaterra Machu Picchu lodge

Rustic interiors at the Inkaterra Machu Picchu lodge

On top of this, Inkaterra Cafe is working on reclaiming Peru’s pre-Hispanic cuisines, and the property has a programme to rescue the country’s beloved Spectacled Bears (that’s Paddington to you and me). Working with the Peruvian National Institute of Natural Resources (INRENA), Inkaterra hotel group works to rehabilitate some of these bears – South America’s only bear species – who have been negatively impacted by human communities, and release them into the wild. They can also be sighted occasionally in the countryside around the Machu Picchu lodge.

Excursions to Machu Picchu itself are a must-do, of course; but other excursions include getting to know the local orchids (Inkaterra has a garden of some 372 species. Local festivals like August’s Pachamama are marked by shaman-led ceremonies where guests are encouraged to join in.

We also think you’ll like: Embrace The Spirituality of The Incas in Peru’s Sacred Valley

A historic courtyard at Palacio del Inka, Cusco

A historic courtyard at Palacio del Inka, Cusco

Palace of the Incas

The traditional feel starts with the facade of this 500-year-old building, a listed landmark which was once the home of Francisco Pizarro, Peru’s first Spanish governor. It also sits across from Cusco’s Qoricancha (Temple of the Sun), built around the year 1200. Decor here is more focused on Peru’s Spanish-colonial history, from gilded columns, polished antique furniture, valuable mirrors and vases decorating rooms and halls to lavish painted tiling above beds, arches and courtyards in the architecture. Opulent oil paintings are collected from the Cusqueña Art School, prominent in Peruvian history. Request a suite in the Casona de los Cuatro Bustos area of the building to stay in what was once the 15th-century residence.

But the Spirit Spa here puts the hotel firmly in the Peruvian Andes, with indigenous treatments dating back hundreds of years. From a grape-skin bath that takes advantage of the antioxidants in the fruit to an Inca-style mud wrap, they range from rustic to deluxe (the gold-leaf-infused Temple of the Sun treatment). Parts of an ancient Incan wall also run through the hotel’s Rumi Bar – ask staff for the full history. Daily guided tours of the Palacio can enlighten you as to the historic significance of each part of the building and grounds.

The restaurant at Palacio del Inka

The restaurant at Palacio del Inka

In terms of food, Inti Raymi restaurant is a whirlwind through Peruvian culinary history, from zingy ceviche to grilled alpaca, and Pisco sours served in terracotta tumblers with an array of local botanical seasonings. One real highlight is the hotel’s own Pisco sour masterclass, where expert mixologists will talk you through the local spirit, made from fermented grape juice, and how it interweaves with Peruvian history, as well as how to mix the perfect pour.

Even the Palacio’s location puts you right at the heart of the Sacred Valley’s history, with the colonial architecture of Plaza de Armas all around, and shops selling traditional handicrafts to take home (the hotel concierge can point you in the right direction). The city’s cathedral, its Inka Museum and Saqsaywaman archaeological site should all be on your to-do list.

We also think you’ll like: Inside the home and studio of Peru’s most famous sculptor, Victor Delfin

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Luxury Journeys, Unwind

10 Best Airlines For Business Class

May 24, 2024 by Lucy Thackray No Comments
Singapore Airlines' latest business class cabin

Turning left – it’s something that every passionate lover of travel wants to do at least once in their lifetime. When you enter a business class cabin, everything is prepared just so: the lie-flat seats are upright in their glossy pods, the premium blankets are neatly folded, the generously sized flat-screen TVs are stocked with entertainment, and champagne awaits you in a real glass flute. That’s before you even get to chef-designed food and beverage offerings, white-glove service and peaceful cabin lighting. If you’re wondering about the best airlines for business class experiences, we’ve got you covered.

British Airways' Club World cabin

A passenger in British Airways’ Club World cabin

Qatar Airways

Flying business class, you get to know the cream of the crop. And Qatar Airways has the awards to prove it: not only did it top the list of the world’s best airlines for business class at the Skytrax World Airline Awards 2023, but Qatar Airways’ business class has a whopping six styles of business class seat to choose from. The plush curve of its QSuite seat, which converts to lie flat beds, is legendary, with doors you can slide across discreetly for privacy. Families or groups travelling together can also request a quartet of QSuites for a shared mega-suite; meanwhile the newer Business Class Suite (on some 787-9 Dreamliners) is even more spacious and comes with wireless charging points and a 79-inch lie-flat bed. Expect good food: Qatar also won “Best Catering” in the 2024 Airline Excellence Awards.

We also think you’ll like: Michelin Star Dining at 30,000 Feet? This Airline is Making It Possible

British Airways

The UK’s flag carrier is known for its immaculate service and experienced flight attendants – every customer in its business class cabin is greeted by name and offered a glass of champagne as they board. The historic airline is also known for pairing with star chefs, premium champagne brands and cult British food and beverage companies for its upmarket business menu (afternoon tea is a real highlight). The brand new incarnation of its “Club Suite” started arriving on flights in 2019, with direct- access for every seat, a sliding door for privacy, 40 per cent more storage space and wifi all adding a vast improvement to the airline’s former offering.

Emirates

An onboard bar is a perk you don’t see on every flight is a trip to a mile-high bar. And Emirates is one of a handful of airlines that have crafted these separate spaces with seating areas, for a sociable leg-stretch during long flights. Lacquered woods and cream leather characterise Emirates’ luxe-feeling business-class seats, while switched-on flight attendants are quick to offer drinks and bring beautifully presented meals on gleaming chinaware. The airline launched ultra-luxe amenity kits with Italian brand Bulgari in 2023, with business class flyers enjoying mini Amethyste eau de toilettes as well as rich moisturisers, lip balm, a mirror, dental kit and foldaway hairbrush. 

Singapore Airlines' latest business class cabin

Singapore Airlines’ latest business class cabin

Turkish Airlines

Turkey’s national carrier is known for its comprehensive network connecting east and west; and the business class experience is just as glamorous as you’d expect. Sculptural, curved black seating pods are well padded and feel spacious even for taller passengers. Turkish Airlines was awarded Best Business Class Catering for its onboard food and beverage in 2023, with menu items including mezze platters, kofte, swordfish brochette and Turkish “borek” pastries. Denon noise-cancelling headphones are provided to every business class passenger, for a seamless movie-watching experience, as are slick leather pouches of Ferragamo beauty products.

We also think you’ll like: The Airlines with the Most Luxurious First Class Bathrooms Have Been Revealed

Singapore Airlines

Known for its superb food and ever-smiling hospitality, Singapore Airlines is a carrier many business travels relish the thought of flying business class with. Its ‘Book the Cook’ feature means you can peruse a broad menu pre-flight and reserve your main course in advance; food is beautifully presented, while drinks include premium champagnes like Piper-Heidsieck, Singapore Sling cocktails and even mile-high cappuccinos. Meanwhile Singapore’s lie-flat beds are handcrafted from Scottish leather and diamond-stitched, with a cushioned headboard adding extra comfort. Wifi is also free to all business passengers.

Delta 

Often scooping the top spot when business travel bloggers rank the USA’s best business class experiences, Delta is a delight to fly in style. The service has had specific shout-outs from the likes of business travel website The Points Guy, while Business Traveler US crowned Delta the best business class in 2023. Its Delta One cabin refreshes you with a hot towel service on arrival, with swish Someone Somewhere amenity kits for further pampering throughout the flight. The buzz is all about the recently-launched Delta Suite, which has a fully lie-flat bed with memory foam, sliding doors (on most aircraft), do not disturb signs for passengers, and premium bedding made from recycled materials, including plastic bottles.

The Japanese 'Washoku' menu on ANA (All Nippon Airways)

The Japanese ‘Washoku’ menu on ANA (All Nippon Airways)

Virgin Atlantic

Virgin adds a little extra insider factor to its business class by playfully naming it “Upper Class” – and in the absence of a First Class cabin, the airline’s business one does feel as deluxe as it gets. Disco-hued low lighting adapts to help you acclimate to time-zone changes; plush maroon-leather seats glide effortlessly to a flat bed, with generous, squishy bedding provided by the flight attendants. Virgin is also well-rated for its service – which, unlike some nation’s airlines, manages to be friendly, cheeky and irreverent as well as capable and helpful. It also has character-packed, sociable airport lounges at its main hubs: London Heathrow’s Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse has Peloton bikes, relaxation pods, a video-game zone and pool table.

We also think you’ll like: Take a Glimpse Into Luxury Air Travel of the Future With These Stunning Designs

Cathay Pacific

This Hong-Kong-based airline is one of Asia’s most luxe flying experiences; a business class fare here will buy you a few hours in the award-winning Aria Suite seat (launching in Q4, 2024) with a 24-inch widescreen TV you can connect to with Bluetooth. Business Traveler recently listed  the new design as one of their 10 most anticipated business class cabins of 2024. In the meantime, super-soft bedding, switched-on service and a well-stocked inflight entertainment system all keep fans of the airline coming back for more. As does the food: Asian-influenced papaya salads, beef tenderloin, prawn stir fries with jasmine rice or truffled Croque Monsieurs.

ANA (All Nippon Airways)

Those who know their airline loyalty points and global business routes all covet a seat on an ANA long-haul flight to Japan. Its seat design “The Room” has one of the most generous seating areas on the global business class landscape, with tons of storage space, a 24-inch movie screen and a sliding door to hide away behind. All business class flyers get a collectable amenities pouch designed by cult luggage brand Globetrotter, a lie-flat bed and a choice between a traditional Japanese menu and an international one. Go for the former: the airline’s Executive Chef Shimizu is highly regarded, and this beautifully crafted, multi-course meal might include snapper sushi, miso-marinated mackerel and wakame salads, all served on beautiful Japanese ceramics.

Etihad

Back to the Arab Gulf for another deluxe business class cabin. Abu Dhabi’s home airline has been ahead of the game for some time when it comes to technology (wireless charging points, Bluetooth connection), inflight entertainment and seat innovations. Frequent flyers rave about its chic Acqua di Parma toiletries, Armani Casa blankets, marble-effect table tops and plush flat-bed seats with soothing, lamp-style lighting. Lunches and dinners are also served on smart Armani Casa chinaware: expect lashings of champagne, Arabic mezze, expertly executed curries and a broad wine and spirits selection. Little touches like noise-cancelling headphones and seats with a massage function add hotel-style luxury to the business class experience.

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