Travel isn’t only about the sights you see; it’s also about the amazing food you get to taste. Sometimes, the cuisine is so exceptional that it’s worth the trip just for that. I’m not talking about your everyday meals, but those mind-blowing, once-in-a-lifetime culinary experiences that are worthy of your bucket list. From dining under the ocean in the Maldives to having a meal high above the ground in Dubai, here are my top 12 unforgettable foodie adventures.

Dine underwater at Ithaa Undersea Restaurant, Maldives
Picture yourself dining surrounded by the colorful marine life of the Indian Ocean. Situated 16 feet below sea level and encased in glass, Ithaa offers a unique underwater dining experience. The luxurious six-course menu features delicacies such as caviar and Maldivian lobster.

Experience multi-sensory dining at Ultraviolet by Paul Pairet, Shanghai, China
Ultraviolet feels like stepping into a sci-fi movie. This exclusive 10-seat restaurant pairs each dish with visuals, sounds, and even scents to create an extraordinary dining experience. Chef Paul Pairet blends flavors and sensations expertly, turning each course into a delightful surprise.

Explore the Andes at Mil, Cusco, Peru
Mil isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a tribute to the Andes. Located above the ancient Moray Inca terraces, the eight-course menu takes you through the diverse ecosystems of the region. The chefs work with local farmers to source rare ingredients, making every dish a celebration of Andean culture.

Eat local and foraged at Wolfgat, Paternoster, South Africa
Wolfgat is a cozy 20-seater restaurant where Chef Kobus van der Merwe crafts a menu from locally foraged ingredients. Each dish captures the essence of the Western Cape, connecting you to the land and sea of South Africa. It’s an intimate and deeply personal dining experience.

Have a royal feast at La Grande Table Marocaine, Marrakech, Morocco
Dining at La Grande Table Marocaine is like stepping into a Moroccan fantasy. Located in the luxurious Royal Mansour hotel, the restaurant offers a modern twist on traditional Moroccan dishes. The opulent decor, with intricate tiles and plush furnishings, makes you feel like royalty for the night.

Be on top of the world at Atmosphere, Dubai, UAE
Why dine on the ground when you can eat on the 122nd floor of the Burj Khalifa? Atmosphere offers a breathtaking panoramic view of Dubai’s skyline, alongside an impressive menu. The chic, modern interior adds a layer of sophistication, making it a dining experience literally above the rest.

Travel back in time at Medieval Tavern, Prague, Czech Republic
The Medieval Tavern in Prague offers a time-travel experience. With a candlelit setting, servers in period costumes, and a menu based on medieval recipes, it’s a feast for all senses. Live music and dance performances enhance the atmosphere, transporting you to another era.

Chase waterfalls at Labassin Waterfall Restaurant, San Pablo City, Philippines
Labassin offers a dining experience in the shallow part of a waterfall. With bamboo tables set in the water, you can feel the flow over your feet as you enjoy traditional Filipino dishes. The sound of cascading water adds a serene touch to your meal.

Dine in a historic cave at Ali Barbour’s Cave Restaurant, Diani Beach, Kenya
Ali Barbour’s transforms a 120,000-year-old cave into a unique dining venue. Natural skylights let moonlight filter through, creating an enchanting setting. The menu features a mix of seafood and international favorites, and the cave’s acoustics add a magical touch.

Enjoy Spanish creativity at El Celler de Can Roca, Girona, Spain
El Celler de Can Roca, a three-Michelin-star restaurant, is where the Roca brothers serve innovative dishes that honor their Catalan roots. The wine cellar boasts over 60,000 bottles, and the sleek, modern design of the restaurant makes for a culinary experience that blends tradition with creativity.

Participate in the art of kaiseki at Gion Moriwaki, Kyoto, Japan
Kaiseki represents the pinnacle of Japanese fine dining, and Gion Moriwaki offers an exquisite experience. The multi-course meal changes with the seasons, featuring visually stunning and flavorful dishes. The setting is intimate, ensuring every detail is perfect for an unforgettable meal.

Swing from the trees at the treepod at Soneva Kiri, Koh Kood, Thailand
Imagine dining in a bamboo pod hoisted high in the tropical trees of Koh Kood, with waiters ziplining to serve you. The jungle sounds provide natural background music, enhancing an adventurous and romantic meal.

Trust me, these are more than just meals; they are stories you’ll tell for years. Which one will be your next unforgettable culinary adventure?

Kristin Winkaffe
Kristin Winkaffe is the Founder of Winkaffe Global Travel, designing transformative, culturally immersive, and luxurious travel experiences.