Restaurants worth travelling for

Osteria Francescana – Modena, Italy

Food has a way of transporting us, even before we set foot on a plane. Some restaurants are so exceptional that they become destinations themselves, attracting food lovers from across the globe. If you're the type of traveler who plans trips around your taste buds, here are some restaurants that are absolutely worth the journey.

1. Osteria Francescana – Modena, Italy

Helmed by the legendary Massimo Bottura, this three-Michelin-starred restaurant is a love letter to Italian cuisine with a modern twist. The famous "Oops! I Dropped the Lemon Tart" is a must-try. The restaurant blends art and food, offering dishes that are as visually stunning as they are delicious. Bottura's approach reinvents Italian classics, using avant-garde techniques to elevate flavors and textures. Booking a table here requires patience, but the experience is well worth it. While in Modena, foodies can also explore the region’s balsamic vinegar production and enjoy its vibrant culinary scene.

2. Gaggan – Bangkok, Thailand

A revolutionary take on Indian cuisine, Gaggan’s progressive tasting menu surprises diners with flavors, textures, and emotions. The emoji-based menu adds an extra element of fun, where guests guess the dish based on symbols instead of words. The restaurant’s signature dish, "Lick It Up," requires diners to enjoy a dish directly from the plate—an immersive experience that connects food and playfulness. Bangkok itself is a street food paradise, so exploring local flavors alongside Gaggan’s innovation makes for a well-rounded culinary adventure.

3. El Celler de Can Roca – Girona, Spain

Run by three brothers, this culinary gem offers a sensory explosion with dishes that combine tradition, innovation, and artistic presentation. The restaurant is known for its elaborate multi-course meals, where each dish tells a story. Whether it's a smoked eel with green apple or a dessert inspired by a Cuban cigar, every bite is designed to evoke memories and emotions. Girona is a charming town with medieval streets, making it a great destination for a food-filled getaway.

4. Narisawa – Tokyo, Japan

Bringing nature to the plate, Narisawa's sustainable Japanese-French fusion dishes highlight the beauty of the natural world through impeccable flavors. Chef Yoshihiro Narisawa’s cuisine focuses on “Innovative Satoyama,” a philosophy that emphasizes harmony between humans and nature. Ingredients are sourced seasonally, showcasing Japan’s rich biodiversity. Dining here is a poetic journey, where dishes like soil soup and forest bread immerse guests in an eco-conscious culinary narrative.

5. Central – Lima, Peru

A journey through Peru’s diverse altitudes and ecosystems, Central’s menu features ingredients sourced from the Amazon, the Andes, and the Pacific coast. Each course represents a different elevation level, celebrating the country’s vast landscapes. Chef Virgilio Martínez’s commitment to sustainability and biodiversity has earned Central global acclaim. Lima itself is a gastronomic hub, home to cevicherias and street food markets that complement the fine dining experience at Central.

From Michelin-starred masterpieces to hidden gems tucked away in bustling cities, these restaurants redefine dining as an experience. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a casual explorer, these places are guaranteed to leave a lasting impression. Make sure to book reservations in advance and explore the local culinary scenes beyond these world-class establishments.