Whether you’re jetting off on honeymoon or a weekend away with your loved one, we have tried and tested restaurants famed for their loved-up credentials to reveal the most romantic restaurants in the world – book a table for two now and let the celebrations commence.
The Most Romantic Restaurants In The World
When we think of Gusbourne, we envisage golden effervescence, we smell those vintage floral notes and feel the cold crystal flutes. Their collection of sparkling wines has won critical acclaim, and what better way to celebrate your engagement than set on Gusbourne’s beautiful 60-hectare estate. Just an hour outside of London, the hill the Gusbourne Estate Tour is perched on is essentially a heart-stirring viewpoint – gazing out across smooth hills combed by pruned vines you’ll explore the story of each wine from soil to sun, vine to grape, tank to barrel to bottle. The three seasonal courses are prepared on site by Head Chef Anthony Coppard and are made from the freshest local ingredients. It’s a fittingly dramatic scene for the beautifully presented plates of food that arrive in theatrical fashion. Paired by the Ambassador, you find yourself taken on a journey through the vintages and outstanded at how each course is paired so perfectly – could there be a more romantic setting in the world?
Hot tip: For the ultimate Christmas gift try and secure your spot for the Gusbourne Estate Tour now, as availability is limited. This unique experience is a rare gem, so make sure to plan ahead, book somewhere locally in Rye and reserve your place for an unforgettable journey through the Gusbourne estate.
Book here: www.gusbourne.com
Cala Gracioneta, Ibiza
By Isabella Foulger, Co-Founder & Editor
One of Ibiza’s best kept secrets, Cala Gracioneta, is located on the West coast of the island. A dusty lane (accessed best by foot) takes you to the vibey beachside restaurant which is effortlessly charming. Occupying a small secluded cove surrounded by soaring pines – it’s a place where beautiful people go for long lunches. Terraces are carved out of the rockface, adorned with chunky wooden tables and leafy banana trees. Menus are curated with the freshest, seasonal ingredients, from the sea, or land of Ibiza’a shores and there’s no menu – instead your tentative waiter will deliver the options. Order the summer punch to refresh and the seafood Paella is not to be missed, served at the table in traditional style.
Hot tip: After, grab your towel and take a dip in the crystal clear waters of the bay.
Book here: www.calagracioneta.com/en/
Galáxia SkyFood, Savoy Palace, Funchal, Madeira
By Lee Osborne, Men’s style Editor
Views don’t come much more enchanting than those afforded at Galáxia SkyFood, perched high above the opulent bay of Funchal on the Atlantic archipelago of Madeira. Arrive for pre-dinner sundowners and watch in awe as soft gradient shifts of wondrous pink, more reminiscent of a watercolour painting, are brush-stroked onto the horizon. As the sun finally disappears out of sight, a glittering array of lights penetrate the midnight blue sky, like a coordinated procession of smartphone torch lights illuminating a pop concert. The constellations mirror those which decorate the starry starry night ceiling inside, and set a rather romantic tone where Chef César Vieira, under the guidance of Carlos Gonçalves, Executive Chef at Savoy Signature, cooks up a storm of wine-paired masterpieces: Wagyu beef skewer is a take on the native Madeiran version, aside bread and garlic crumble, served on a bed of flora with a flaming leaf still alight, accompanied by a glass of Champagne AR Lenoble from Damery no less; Ussuzukuri fermented fish with mango, avocado and ponzu coulis, scented with chilli and lemon grass goes up against a local Ilha Verdelho wine, effusing notes of peach and light pineapple, and that trademark Madeiran salinity; Bananaa textures pudding, “where everything is edible sir, except the plate” is a fun nod to the indigenous and much celebrated Madeiran banana, but crafted in miniature form, permeated with ice cream. It would be rude not to top it all off by imbibing in a glass of Blandy’s Bual 10 años, you are in Madeira after all.
Hot Tip: the fun spills out onto the restaurant’s expansive terrace on Fridays and Saturdays where a resident DJ spins tunes from 20:30–00:30 to a hipster set.
Book here: https://www.savoysignature.com/savoypalacehotel/en/restaurants/galaxia-skyfood/
Royal Mansour Marrakech, Morocco
By Kendra Leaver-Rylah
There are views, and then there is the view from The Royal Mansour Marrakech. An endless sprawl of riad rooftops is animated with the call to prayer, the soundtrack of the markets below and nesting birds chirping in the high ruin walls. Beyond this, the Atlas Mountains lift into a magnificent haze. Inside, the luxury brief is taken seriously with eye-popping interiors, elaborate tiles and plants that recall old world afternoons made of tea and reading. Afternoons here have a similar habit of vanishing, often in Le Jardin alongside the pool which glistens in the sunshine, much like guests’ glasses of rosé. The World-famous chef, Yannick Alléno, waves his culinary wand at the Royal Mansour’s La Grande table Marocaine and Le Jardin, conjuring up exquisite menus as well as his signature playfulness. Expect mouth-watering seafood Pastilla, Strawberry Tajine with Sorbet and milk cream pastilla.
Tapasake, One & Only Le Saint Géran, Mauritius
By Alice Levison
The One & Only Le Saint Géran is uniquely situated on the Belle Mare peninsula on the northeast coast of Mauritius and gives way to a mile of palm tree lined sandy beaches as well as an equally idyllic lagoon.
Tapasake, the hotels modern Japanese fusion restaurant presides over the hotel’s lagoon, set amongst mature mangroves with far reaching views of leafy sugarcane-covered mountains. The restaurant can be found in a traditionally thatched over-water villa with panoramic water views, warmly lit exposed wooden beams and an open plan kitchen where you can see the chefs roll out an array of sublime creations. Tapasake perfectly embodies the vibe at Le Saint Géran, which masters bringing the outside in with an elevated island aesthetic that reflects the tropical surroundings.
There are few places as photogenic as One & Only Le Saint Géran and Tapasake was a personal favourite that we returned to, only to fall in love with it further. Expect mouth-watering food and exceptional service, Tapasake unifies Europe’s small plate dining experience with Japan’s earthly refinement and delivers on every level. The menu’s vast offering and the restaurants atmosphere is every bit as vibrant and magical as it’s setting!
Hot Tip: Arrive for sunset cocktails at the restaurants jetty bar to work your way through an inspired cocktail list whilst watching the lagoon shimmer in a kaleidoscope of colours! For dinner ask for a table on the waterfront, where you can enjoy the moonlit glazed lagoon come nightfall. oneandonlyresorts.com
Le Relais Plaza and Jean Imbert au Plaza Athénée, Paris
By Rosalyn Wikeley, Travel Editor-At-Large
Of Plaza Athénée’s five restaurants and bars, Jean Imbert au Plaza Athénée is the standout. Here, a riot of chandeliered decadence unfolds with a pricey menu showcasing creative spins on french classics, all theatrically rolled out. A long Breccia marble ‘royal’ table supporting enormous urns of pink hydrangea, dominates the room and echoes the French Republic’s more regal era. For a marginally less extravagant soiree (though foie gras and trout caviar still open the show), the Art Deco le Relais Plaza seizes on the spirit of a refined piano bar with a lively mix of locals and international hotel guests. The signature gratin of sea bream is the one to order – a paean to Imbert’s grandmother, along with the terrine. Plazaathenee.com
Hot Tip: The buzz continues into the nightclub-style bar, whose energy ramps up on weekends with DJs and whose bartenders slide Mojitos and Martinis along a smooth bar mimicking a slab of ice.
D-Breeze, Göcek
By Kendra Leaver-Rylah
D-Breeze is nestled on a private beach situated in the heart of this picturesque Göcek harbour and shines a spotlight on the famous coastline. This is a place where the glamorous escape, creative urbanites fleeing the oppressive summer heat, and artsy Europeans eager to sail for a slice of the serene in this upmarket resort on a stretch of unspoiled Turkish-Mediterranean beach. Best viewed in the golden hour light, when the sun illuminates the ancient ruins that dot the coastline. The food is as you would imagine – the freshest fish with locally sourced sides to make for an unforgettable experience with the most authentic Aegean Cuisine in Göcek. www.dresortgocek.com/en/gastronomy/d-breeze
Hot Tip: If you haven’t got your own, charter the hotel’s speedboat to explore the islets dotted offshore – though there’s plenty to do on land: a spa with a hammam, tennis and a gym, three restaurants, and – rare on this peninsular – a beach of fine white sand.
Lauda, Oia, Santorini
By Isabella Foulger, Co-Founder & Editor
If you’re looking for a truly memorable gastronomic Greek treat, Lauda is the one for you. Located in the vibrant clifftop village of Oia, it prides itself on being the oldest restaurant which first opened in 1971. Meander down the narrow stepped pathway, and you will arrive at the poolside restaurant with mesmerising sea views. Romance is the heartbeat here, on arrival expect to be presented with a single red rose amongst other gestures. Waiters wear white linen teamed with trainers, it’s where fine dining blends seamlessly with a relaxed al fresco vibe. Opt for one of the extensive tasting menus curated by Emmanuel Renaut, an award-winning chef and the founder of Flocons de Sel, the legendary 3 Michelin Starred French restaurant. Sit back and admire the panoramic views whilst each course is paired with a local wine or colourful mocktail, by the tentative sommelier. An impressive array of amuse bouche sets the tone of what’s to follow, served on volcanic rocks, there’s virtual olives, mirco-donuts and other surprising delights. There’s a huge emphasis on local ingredients with each dish, highlights include the Yellowtail marinated with fennel flowers, Lobster gnocchi and the pistachio tart with fresh zesty lemon. After sunset hilltop towns twinkle peacefully on nearby islands, it’s the perfect location for spoiling dinner. laudarestaurant.com/
Hot Tip: dine like royalty by booking the famous “red throne” table, which has the best views for a special occasion.
Jaya at the Setai, Miami Beach
By Alessandra Frame, Contributing Fashion Editor
For the couple looking for a romantic setting that delivers on entertainment and atmosphere, Jaya at the Setai is the restaurant for you. High ceilings, deep wooden panelling and rich red accents adorn the luxurious pan-asian restaurant, but the real magic is to be experienced in the courtyard where guests are seated around a magnificent stone-filled pool that becomes the focal point for the evening’s entertainment. A retractable roof means the palm tree lined courtyard can be enjoyed year-round, and couples can expect to be surprised and delighted as fire twirlers and dancers make their way past the tables. The menu boasts popular Southeast and Northern Asian dishes accompanied by a vibrant cocktail menu while the setting provides all of the glitz one would expect to experience in Miami with a definite romantic edge. thesetaihotels.com
Nobu Santorini
By Rosalyn Wikeley, Travel Editor-At-Large
Flames dancing to Ibiza lounge, Balinese teak tables dotted with elaborate saki cocktails, diamond-clad fingers diving in for more edamame – the familiar Nobu trappings, just with those fabled Santorini sunsets. Plates of glazed salmon and sesame, spinach salad drizzled in basil oil, parmesan and truffle, and spicy beef tenderloin sprinkled in chives all arrive with Nobu’s signature Japanese precision and just-so ceramics. Deep, brooding flavours stir even the hard-to-please palates and consign all lunches, suppers, really any foreseeable meals, to an average-to-poor category. Such is the magic of Nobu. It’s near alchemic-grade of food leaves the punters asking ‘but how?’ while the minimalist oomph and service as smooth as a salmon nigiri seems to travel with the group from London to Ibiza. The show ends on a sweet note – a sinfully good chocolate fondant and matcha ice cream bento box – whose lacquered corners fend of scrapes from over zealous couples, whose pudding standards have just experienced a reset. santorini.nobuhotels.com
Hot tip: Arrive here early for a prime spot for the heart-tugging sunsets from Nobu’s cliff top perch – though those consigned to the back of the restaurant have a romantic view of the pool area, elegantly framed with flickering lanterns and the dark silhouettes of pruned shrubs and olive trees.
Mango House Seychelles, LXR Hotels & Resorts, Moutya
By Serena Knight, Lifestyle Director
Moutya is one of five unique restaurants at Mango House, each delicious and special in their own way. But the star of the show for me is Moutya, offering the most romantic setting and local Creole cuisine, perched overlooking a small white sand cove surrounded by towering granite boulders and overhanging palm trees. Creole cuisine is inspired by the Seychelles’ rich history and social tapestry; a heady mix of French, Asian and Indian influences which comes through in the ingredients, flavour and scents. The abundance of local seafood is the backbone of Moutya’s menu. You’ll enjoy a local feast, starting off with salty and lightly fried breadfruit crisps, (a delicious local vegetable, a cross between a potato and artichoke). Starters are fresh and flavoursome, the mango, smoked marlin and green apple salad was zingy and refreshing. Moutya’s Ceviche was a local twist on a classic dish, made with local red snapper, coconut milk and a healthy topping of coriander and lime. Mains are rich in flavour and local spices, the catch of the day comes wrapped in a banana leaf and is served with papaya and pickles, coconut rice and traditional creole sauce, tomatoey with a little kick of cayenne pepper. The Panna-Coco is a must try to finish, it’s light, creamy and limey. www.sixsenses.com/
Hot Tip: Bag yourself one of the tables at the front of the deck and settle in for hours watching the fruit bats flap above and waves lap on the deck below.
Six Senses Zil Pasyon, Seychelles – Ocean Kitchen
By Serena Knight, Lifestyle Director
Seafood restaurant Ocean Kitchen is an alfresco dining experience on the sea-edge, nestled amongst granite boulders, overlooking the coral-fringed beaches of Felicite island. This spot is just as romantic for lunch or dinner. Wear your breezy beach best during the day or slip into flowy silk dresses and linen shirts for the evening. The menu is inspired by the local creole cuisine, using fresh fish from local fishermen who are committed to sustainable fishing practices. Fresh fruit, herbs and vegetables are also sourced from the island’s organic garden and local farmers. You can watch the chef’s fillet and fry the catch of the day in the open kitchen, served straight off the barbecue grill. At lunchtime, you’ll be hard pressed to choose from the palm heart (local vegetable similar to a white asparagus), avocado and prawn salad, the freshest tuna ceviche or Green-Egg BBQ grilled lobsters. The dinner menu is bespoke and changes every evening, taking inspiration from Seychellois heritage, influences and seasonal ingredients. My favourite was the simple but sumptuous grilled red snapper with caramelised potatoes infused with creole spices.
Hot tip: After dinner head next door to Koko Bar for a night cap. Relax into an oversized hammock stretched above the sea and enjoy a delicious cocktail, many of which include the legendary local rum, Takamaka.
Shangri-La: Ting
By Kendra Leaver-Rylah, Co-Founder & Editor
As the door pings open at The Shangri-La London, your date night starts: greeted by 360-degree vistas of the capital, with a split-level, marble-clad lobby that sings with the overawed delight of guests poring over the floor-to-ceiling widescreen panoramas. Kickstart the night at Gong, on the 52nd floor, which offers an impressive rotating menu of themed cocktails. We suggest The Yuza cocktails with Tanqueray Ten and cedarwood notes makes for the zesty’s kick-start to your evening. Then it’s off to the restaurant, Ting, which is European fine dining with an Asian twist; we love the beef Tataki or Seared King Scallops onto dishes like mouth-wateringly yummy Hainanese Chicken Rice and to finish Coconut Sesame Choux with staff are discreet but on the ball. This place is extreme luxury high up in the clouds. www.shangri-la.com/london/shangrila/
Hot Tip: The lounge is also ideal for reclining in with a nightcap after dinner at its adjoining restaurant, which has a grand piano at its centre.
Hotel Santa Caterina – Restaurant Al Mare
By Alexandra Dudley, Lifestyle Editor
Perched high above the crystal blue coastline of Amalfi, Restaurant Al Mare offers an unparalleled romantic setting of sun, sea, and sky. Discreet waiters dressed in elegant linens are immediately on hand to explain the day’s special fish dishes as they pour you a glass of perfectly chilled Italian sparkling wine. Local anchovies marinated with Amalfi lemon seamlessly appear alongside a basket of rosemary focaccia and seeded sourdough (still warm from the oven). The Gran Crudo di Pesci or seafood carpaccio is not to be missed. Plates of oysters, langoustine, and expertly sliced carpaccio made with fresh catch of the day arrive with a unique seasoning for each. The smell of sizzling pizzas baked in Al Mare’s stone oven offers a worthy temptation but the star is the seafood risotto, enriched with a joyously rich bisque it is designed to be eaten and enjoyed by two. With shaded bamboo ceilings and white-washed wooden chairs the restaurant pairs laid-back charm with impeccable service. This is seaside dining at its finest. www.hotelsantacaterina.it
Hot Tip: Head down to Il Grottino for an aperitif or nightcap and sample some of Hotel Santa Caterina’s home-made lemon liqueurs.
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