In 2020, the restaurant industry took a hit, with many establishments closing their doors. However, the food world is now making a triumphant comeback, proving that it is more resilient and innovative than ever. Let me take you on a journey through 10 of the most extraordinary restaurants that have left me completely spellbound with their culinary experiences over the past year.
Let’s start with Amisfield in New Zealand. My visit to Vaughan Mabee’s restaurant at the Amisfield winery was nothing short of magical. Chef Mabee and his team go to great lengths to forage, line-catch, spearfish, and hunt for ingredients used in their 22-course menu. The giant king crab dish here was, without a doubt, the most memorable thing I ate all year.
Next, we travel to Lisbon to discover Arkhe. Chef João Ricardo Alves and sommelier Alejandro Chávarro have been creating a plant-based fine dining menu that has been making waves for the past four years. Their recent move to a larger and more comfortable space has allowed them to expand their menu and offer an unparalleled dining experience.
In Italy, El Brite de Larieto in Cortina d’Ampezzo is a gem run by Chef Riccardo Gaspari and his wife Ludovica Rubbini. This offshoot of the Michelin-starred San Brite is fiercely committed to using local ingredients and is located in the cozy barns of Gaspari’s family farm. The dishes and the history behind them made this a truly unforgettable experience.
In Bangkok, Haoma is a unique and unexpected gem. Chef Deepanker Khosla’s regenerative farm raises happy and healthy animals just miles away from his zero-waste, Michelin-star restaurant. The 22 “expressions” on Khosla’s neo-Indian menu are nothing short of creative, complex, and absolutely delicious.
On the rugged terrain of Bornholm, Denmark, Kadeau is a restaurant that truly embraces the island’s unique characteristics. Chef Nicolai Nørregaard’s dedication to using local ingredients and the stunning seaside view made this a stand-out dining destination.
Moving on to Estonia, NOA Chef’s Hall in Tallinn is a place to experience Chef Tõnis Siigur’s outstanding culinary talents. The inventive local dishes, like the NOA redfish, were a highlight of my visit.
Copenhagen is home to Sushi Anaba, a testament to Mads Battefeld’s expertise and dedication to the art of Japanese cuisine. With meticulous attention to detail and the use of locally sourced fish and seafood, Sushi Anaba is truly a culinary masterpiece.
In Vienna, Tian is Chef Paul Ivić’s vegetarian restaurant that brings vegetables to life in the most unexpected and delightful ways. The creativity and complexity of each dish, along with the relaxed atmosphere, are what makes this dining experience truly exceptional.
Traveling to Algarve, Portugal, we find Vistas Rui Silvestre, where Chef Rui Silvestre’s love for seafood shines in every dish on the Michelin-starred tasting menu. The fusion of Asian, African, and European influences featuring the finest local seafood and luxury ingredients is a true culinary delight.
Finally, in Rome, Zia offers a playful and innovative dining experience created by Chef Antonio Ziantoni. The innovative tasting menus and unexpected flavor combinations are a true testament to his culinary talent and creativity.
These restaurants have indeed redefined the dining experience, leaving me eagerly anticipating the culinary wonders that the future holds. Here’s to another year of extraordinary meals and unforgettable experiences! Cheers!
