Fine dining around Europe

When it comes to fine dining, Europe is one of the top places on earth. The most famous rating systems are originated from Europe, such as the French Michelin Guide and the UK list "World's 50 Best Restaurants". 

It is not a surprise that six of the top ten restaurants in the world in 2018, are actually in Europe. So where are the best destinations for memorable fine dining experiences?

Italy

While living in Italy, I had the chance to explore the fine dining scene and was amazed by talented Italian chefs, such as Massimo Bottura and Massimiliano Alajmo. One of my favorite restaurants of all time is the Osteria Francescana, owned by Massimo Bottura in Modena. For a detailed account of my meal at the best restaurant in the world in 2018, check out my story "Modena: The Ultimate Destination For Gourmets". Another great restaurant in Italy is "Alajmos' Le Calandre" in Rubano. The restaurant is located near Padova, a beautiful city full of great art and architecture, that should not be missed while in northern Italy.

Osteria Francescana, Modena

Via Stella, 22, 41121 Modena MO, Italy

Le Calandre, Sarmeola di Rubano

Via Liguria, 1, 35030 Sarmeola di Rubano, PD, Italy

Another Italian restaurant that captured my heart was Antico Arco, near where I used to live in Rome. For more information, check out my story "Exploring Monteverde Vecchio In Rome".

Antico Arco, Rome

Piazzale Aurelio, 7, 00152 Roma RM, Italy

Spain

Next, let's travel to Spain to explore the country's mind-blowing fine dining restaurants. I would like to introduce to you the best one of them all, which is El Celler de Can Roca, twice awarded among the best restaurant in the world. I was totally impressed by the Feast Menu, including around 14 dishes. As I said in my story "El Celler de Can Roca", the orange blossom dessert was divine. Keep in mind that you will need to reserve your table one year in advance. Girona, where the restaurant is located, is also a fantastic travel destination. 

El Celler de Can Roca

Carrer de Can Sunyer, 48, 17007 Girona, Spain

France

France is certainly a heaven for gastronomy. It is impossible to list all the good restaurants, but one of my favorites in Paris is La Truffière. I have said that "Although I do not remember the first time I've tasted truffles, I can still recall vividly the truffle dishes at La Truffière. One of their signature dishes was oxtail stew, mashed potatoes, and black truffle tuber mélanosporum. Everything melted in the mouth and the flavors were delicate and sophisticated." Plus, the restaurant is tucked away in the heart of Paris and has a mysterious feel. 

La Truffière

4 Rue Blainville, 75005 Paris, France

Turkey

Although the Michelin Guide has not yet reached Turkey, we have our own Turkish expert Alara Benlier to guide us through the best restaurants. Alara recommends the following restaurants for both great food and amazing views in Istanbul:

Villa Bosphorus

Beylerbeyi Mahallesi, 34676 Üsküdar/İstanbul, Türkiye

Lacivert Restaurant Anadoluhisarı

Anadolu Hisarı Mh., 34810 Beykoz/İstanbul, Türkiye

360 Istanbul-Taksim

Tomtom Mahallesi, 34433 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Türkiye

Kız Kulesi Restaurant

Salacak Mahallesi, 34668 Üsküdar/İstanbul, Türkiye

Fine dining is a worth trying experience because of the meticulous food and excellent service. Although some etiquette is expected in the fine-dining restaurants, what matters the most is that you feel comfortable and truly enjoy your meal.