By Lindsey Franxman
Calling all foodies…we know that the culinary delights of different destinations can be the best part of your vacation. And we know some meals that don’t disappoint! To treat your tastebuds in 2024, try these over-the-top dining experiences from around the world.
Private Island Dining at W Punta de Mita | Riviera Nayarit, MX
A chic, beach resort located on Mexico’s coveted Riviera Nayarit, W Punta de Mita offers majestic ocean views, complete luxury and an elevated gastronomy scene brimming with local and international culinary experiences in every corner.
Reserve the incredibly unique Mesa1 experience—an exclusive al fresco chef’s table said to be the world’s most exclusive dining experience with just one nightly seating for an intimate dinner under the stars. The 100-year-old Parota tree table is located on its own private island and only accessible by stones suspended over the water that disappear once the group has been seated.
Guests can indulge in an unforgettable, customizable seven-course tasting menu that blends local ingredients and products to create dishes that highlight the rich flavours of the region while catering to any palette. Whether guests are looking for a romantic evening with their partner or an exclusive soiree with their family and closest friends, this private yet luxurious venue is a perfect spot.
Sensory Menu at Marriott Puerto Vallarta | Puerto Vallarta, MX
Nestled on a sandy strip between the Sierra Madre Mountains and Banderas Bay, Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa offers a fully reimagined beachfront retreat with Puerto Vallarta’s largest infinity pool, the destination’s biggest spa and a dynamic mix of restaurant concepts serving everything from Mexican to Japanese cuisine.
This foodie hotspot recently launched the ‘Sensory Menu’ and invites guests to indulge in a truly immersive dining experience. The resort believes culinary art goes beyond individual palates… it is an experience that impacts all our senses: from sight, to touch, to taste…obviously. The 5-course meal and private dinner is ideal for small groups (max 10), and with so many different tastes, textures and a beautiful sunset view is sure to lead to riveting conversations.
Viking Feast in an Icelandic Cave | Hotel Rangá, Iceland
Feast like Vikings in a mysterious Icelandic cave, the country’s oldest still-standing archaeological remains, just minutes from Hotel Rangá. Guests of the South Coast property are invited to enjoy delicious dishes prepared by the hotel’s chefs in a setting from another time.
While little is known about the Caves of Hella, what is certain is that they were made by humans, and so are the signs that indicate the caves were in existence when the Vikings came to Iceland in 850 A.D. Walking through the cool underground space, cave dwellers feel instantly connected to the past with wall carvings, a small altar and other relics of an unknown age.
Guests of Hotel Rangá can book a private three-course feast, including gourmet gravlax, a decadent lamb shank served over whipped potatoes and a special skyr dessert in this unique Icelandic atmosphere. Dine by candlelight while listening to live entertainment, sipping local craft beer or handpicked wines and be catapulted back in history. To book your Icelandic cave feast, contact Hotel Rangá’s reception—reservations must be made one week in advance.
Water Table at Sol by the Sea at Playa Largo | Key Largo, FL
Situated on more than 14 secluded beachfront acres in the Florida Keys, Playa Largo Resort & Spa is a chic, tropical oasis with all the makings of a classic island vacation…but did you know about its unique culinary experience that takes you knee-deep into the ocean?
The Water Table at the resort’s signature restaurant Sol by the Sea offers guests an intimate and one-of-a-kind dining experience with delicious seafood bites and sensational island sights. Guests can kick off their shoes, dip their toes in the water, and have front-row seats to the stunning sunsets while enjoying fresh, coastal culinary creations under the soft glow of string lights.
A Memorable Dinner Event | Bonaire
Take a seat, grab a welcome drink, and enjoy an intimate and exclusive dinner experience like no other at CHEFS. Located at Bamboo Bonaire, guests can indulge in a live cooking fine-dining experience at the 16-seat restaurant, where they will be accompanied by a culinary ensemble utilizing only the finest ingredients to craft exquisite dishes.
This dining experience offers a 5-course menu, including a wine menu to complement your specially prepared meal. Reservations book up quickly at CHEFS, so make sure you plan ahead to get this VIP experience where the Chefs are there to personally accompany you to your seat.
Take your tastebuds on a culinary excursion to the Dutch Caribbean Island of Bonaire and treat yourself to an unforgettable evening of decadent dishes and good memories. The ‘B’ of the ABC islands might be tiny, but this hidden gem is full of tasty flavours and delicious meals that will have you coming back for more!
