While of course it's about what's on the plate that tantalizes the taste buds, there's definitely something to be said for creating the perfect setting. Whether sleek and sexy or romantic and whimsical, we actively searched far and wide to unearth and discover the most beautiful restaurants in the world.
Midden by Mark Olive, Sydney, Australia
Sitting inside the iconic Sydney Opera House, Midden by Mark Olive is a glorious ode to the Australian natural landscape and the rich history of the First Nations people. The restaurant – its name refers to the remnants of shells the First Nations people used around Sydney Harbour – not only serves up commanding harbour views but is framed by cosy earth tones, gentle lighting and curved shapes mirroring the iconic sails above.
The culinary program is also an exploration of the local bounty, including indigenous Australian ingredients like bush honey, saltbush and wattle seed.
Tuju, São Paulo, Brazil
Tuju blends classic and contemporary Brazilian design with an interior that features a vertical garden running up the restaurant’s several floors. This is an industrial but warm restaurant with modern artwork on the walls, and, in the back patio area, a mural of the restaurant’s namesake – a small, nocturnal bird native to Brazil. Seasonal Brazilian flavors appear plated in the open kitchen of this Michelin-starred restaurant that updates its menu every few months.
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The River Café, New York City, USA
A New York Classic. Hiding in plain sight beneath the Brooklyn Bridge, The River Café’s view is as iconic as New York itself. Perched on the East Riverfront, this institution of New York dining offers unparalleled views of Lower Manhattan through the wall of floor-to-ceiling windows. With beautiful interior decorations, elegant flowers, a grand piano playing romantically in the background and an exceptional menu, this restaurant is suitable for a Manhattan brunch, lunch or dinner for any occasion.
Altitude, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
Hard to beat. This restaurant has quite the view of the Sydney cityscape. Situated in the swanky Shangri-La Hotel, it reaches an astonishing 36 floors above Sydney Harbour where it opens out into a world of floor-to-ceiling windows that offer a unique floating feel while you indulge in breathtaking views of the Opera House, the Harbour Bridge, and several other Aussie favorites. Not only does Altitude serve spectacular food made with the finest Australia can deliver, but the food and views simply cannot be matched anywhere.
The Green Barn Restaurant, Athy, Ireland
With high ceilings and views across the kitchen garden, the bright and breezy restaurant, (assuming sunshine and fine weather) boasts beauty despite its casual and informal atmosphere. It attaches to Burton House & Gardens, a striking Georgian villa on a huge expanse of parkland. Guests tuck into dishes of sustainable, seasonal produce in the barn’s rural yet stylish space, which includes the likes of avocado on toast for a leisurely lunch and pan-fried, Irish venison steak in the evening.
The French Laundry, Yountville, California, USA
Known as a "once in a lifetime experience," dinner at the legendary Thomas Keller's restaurant is comprised of a string of signature dishes that are brought in a nine-course tasting menu. That said, even with food that is considered sublime, sometimes the incredible locale is almost overlooked.
From an abandoned steam laundry to its current incarnation (a lovingly preserved historical building), the dining rooms of The French Laundry are reached by diners through perfectly kept gardens that culminate in either outdoor tables or ones indoors where wrap-around windows provide views into the restaurant's expansive kitchen. In the summer, the flowers of the courtyard indicate which season.
Ithaa Undersea Restaurant, Maldives
Located 16ft (5m) beneath sea level, the world's first all-glass undersea restaurant, Ithaa, provides diners with an immersive dining experience that's hard to beat. The decor remains minimal, allowing the surrounding, vibrant seascape – complete with swimming sharks, stingrays and colorful fish – to shine as the true star of the experience. Given these stunning surroundings, the menu naturally celebrates seafood, with the Maldives Lobster carpaccio and blackened scallops serving as prime examples of its offerings.
The Refuge, Manchester, England, UK
So effortless cool – and there is no doubt there is lots to love about The Refuge. The central restaurant space in Kimpton Clocktower, which is set in the Grade II-listed Victorian Gothic Revival structure which has been a building of heritage and was originally commissioned by Thomas Larmour as the home of The Daily Dispatch in 1891, has lots of original features including great big brass pendant lights that drop down from the coved ceilings and showcases many hints of original heritage in the heritage tiled floor and subtle decor which contrasts with modern mural artwork emblazoned with slogans such as ‘The Glamour of Manchester’ that serve as a central motif to many parts of the restaurant.
The food on offer is modern British and features local influences combined with globally inspired dishes that take in everything from Patagonian red prawns to classic lamb suet pudding.
Conclusion
Great food feeds the body, but a truly incredible restaurant feeds the soul. We didn't just look for flawless service; we sought out spaces that redefine what dining looks like—merging art, history, and nature into unforgettable experiences. Whether it's a living wall in São Paulo or a historic Victorian hall in Manchester, these spots prove that the right atmosphere creates memories that linger long after the last plate is cleared.
FAQ
1. How did you pick these restaurants?
We looked for spaces that offer an immersive escape. Instead of typical dining room layouts, we prioritized extraordinary architecture, seamless integration with nature, and powerful historical character.
2. Is there a strict dress code?
It varies. While destinations like The French Laundry lean into high-end fine dining, spots like The Green Barn (Ireland) offer casual, sunlit charm, and The Refuge (Manchester) keeps things effortlessly laid-back.
3. Which spots have the absolute best views?
- For Cityscapes: Altitude (Sydney) sits 36 floors up, floating right over the Harbour Bridge.
- For Pure Wonder: Ithaa (Maldives) is located entirely underwater.
- For a Classic Skyline: The River Café sits right beneath the Brooklyn Bridge.
4. How early should I book?
As soon as possible. Because these are destination spots, tables fill up fast. The French Laundry, for example, books out months in advance, so check their specific reservation windows early.
5. Can they handle allergies or dietary restrictions?
Yes. Restaurants of this caliber are highly accommodating. However, because many feature set tasting menus, you must notify them of any dietary needs during the booking process so the kitchen can prepare.