Travellers today are not just seeking destinations to explore, they are also searching for extraordinary dining experiences and some of the most beautiful restaurants in the world that embody the culture, creativity and traditions of each place they visit. For those who plan their journeys around food, knowing where to find the world’s best restaurants is essential.
These are not just places to eat; these are culinary temples where every dish tells a story, and every ingredient is artfully enhanced. And every journey becomes a memory of flavours. Exploring the world’s most stunning restaurants is a feast for both the eyes and the palate. These unique dining destinations worldwide are not just about food—they offer breathtaking views, unique architecture, and immersive experiences that make every meal unforgettable. From city rooftops to serene hilltops, visiting these restaurants offers a perfect blend of flavour, ambience, and wanderlust inspiration.
These restaurants have some of the best iconic views. In 2025, the rankings highlighted a remarkable blend of innovation and tradition with Maido in Lima, Peru, taking the crown as the world’s number one restaurant. From Latin America to Europe and Asia, the top reflect a truly international spread, giving travellers compelling reasons to explore far beyond the usual tourist routes.
This blog takes you through the top 15 stunning restaurants worth travelling for in the world for 2025, exploring not only what makes their food special but also the atmosphere, cultural connections and the reasons why every food lover should add these restaurants to their travel bucket list.
1. Ristorante Grotta Palazzese- Polignano a Mare, Italy
- Location- Via Narciso 59, Polignano a Mare, Puglia, Italy
- Timings- Lunch 12:30 to 14:00, Dinner- 18:00 to 22:30 daily
Why its Stunning?
Carved into a limestone cliff overlooking the Adriatic Sea, Grotto Palazzese offers one of the world's most romantic and unique dining destinations. Set inside a natural cave, the restaurant features candlelit tables perched above crashing waves with an unobstructed view of the turquoise horizon. The ambience is both mysterious and magical, especially at sunset when golden light floods the grotto. Serving fine Italian and Mediterranean cuisine, it's an experience that blends nature, luxury, and gastronomy. This centuries-old stunning restaurant is worth travelling for, as it has hosted nobility since the 1700s. And remains an icon of coastal elegance in southern Italy.
2. Ithaa Undersea Restaurant- Maldives
- Location- Conrad Maldives Rangali Island, Rangalifinolhu Island, Maldives
- Timings- 11:00, 12:00, Lunch 12:30, 15:00, Dinner 18:30, 21:30.
Why its stunning?
It is situated five meters below the Indian Ocean at Conrad Maldives Rangali Island. Ithaa is the world’s first all-glass underwater restaurant in the Maldives. Guests dine surrounded by vivacious coral reefs and exotic marine life swimming past panoramic windows. Its transparent acrylic tunnel creates an ethereal 180-degree view of the ocean floor, making every meal a breathtaking immersion into natural world. The ambience is peaceful yet futuristic, offering gourmet fusion menus of Maldivean and European dishes. Ithaa, meaning mother of pearl, perfectly symbolises oceanic luxury, an underwater world where culinary art meets aquatic wonder.
3. The Rock Restaurant Zanzibar-Zanzibar, Tanzania
- Location- Michamvi Pingwe, Zanzibar Island, Tanzania
- Timings- There are five sittings daily, at 12:00, 14:00, 16:00, 18:00, and 20:30. Each sitting is limited in duration.
Why its stunning?
The Rock Restaurant rests dramatically atop a natural coral rock in the Indian Ocean near Michamvi Pingwe Beach, offering rooftop dining experiences. At low tide, diners walk across the sand; at high tide, they are ferried by boat, a unique entrance setting the tone for the experience. With a 360-degree view of endless blue waters, it's both rustic and otherworldly. The menu highlights dining with freshly caught seafood, tropical ingredients, and Swahili flavours. Sunset dining here is unmatched; the restaurant glows golden as waves gently surround it. Its harmony with nature and simplicity make it one of Africa’s most photographed restaurant destinations and dining spots.
4. Alchemist- Copenhagen, Denmark
- Location- Refshalevej 173C Copenhagen, Denmark
- Timings- By reservation, the experience frequently lasts 4-6 hours
Why its Stunning?
Alchemist redefines dining as an immersive artistic journey rather than a meal. Created by chef Rasmus Munk, this two-Michelin-star restaurant merges gastronomy, art, theatre, and philosophy in a 50-course experience that unfolds across multiple architecturally stunning spaces — including a planetarium-like dome that should be included in bucket list restaurants. Each room offers a unique theme, complete with lighting, music, and visuals that complement the food’s narrative. The interiors are moody and modern, designed to evoke emotion and challenge perceptions. It’s an avant-garde masterpiece of culinary storytelling where architecture, art, and taste collide in an unforgettable performance that lasts up to six hours.
5. Gerbou- Dubai, UAE
- Location- Nad Al Sheba, Dubai, UAE
- Timings- Not fully public, typical fine dining hours evening expected, booking is recommended
Why its Stunning?
Located in Dubai's Nad Al Sheba district, Gerbou, the most beautiful restaurant in the world, is a celebration of Emirati heritage through its contemporary design and cuisine. The architecture blends earth tones, natural textures and locally sourced materials such as camel hide and palm wood, lending the place an authentic yet elegant charm. Warm lighting and minimal decor create a calm and serene atmosphere. Gerbau means "to gather" and reflects the community-driven concept of hospitality. The menu reintroduces traditional Arabic dishes with modern flavours. Thus, promoting sustainability and local sources, it should be included in your bucket list of restaurants to visit.
6. Smoked Room- Dubai, UAE
- Location-Dubai, UAE
- Timings- Evening dining bookings required
Why its Stunning?
Smoked Room is a culinary spectacle where fire, smoke, and design meet. Dark, sleek interiors illuminated by warm ember tones give the restaurant an intimate, mysterious atmosphere. Originating from Madrid, the Dubai edition continues the legacy of wood-smoked tasting menus prepared before diners in an open-flame kitchen is one of the best restaurants with iconic views. The setting feels like an industrial theatre – every blaze of fire enhances the sensual journey. Concrete, brass, and black stone dominate the decor, providing a bold contrast to the delicate dishes. The Smoked Room redefines luxury dining with primal energy – a celebration of craftsmanship and controlled chaos.
7. Blackswan-Beijing China
- Location- Beijing, China
- Timings- Evening hours likely closed during off-peak reservations, advisable
Why its stunning?
Blackswan, a unique dining destination worldwide in Beijing, is an architectural marvel that fuses luxury dining with dramatic design. Created by Chris Shao Studio, it features sculpted lighting, reflective black finishes that create an atmosphere of mystery and refinement. The food compliments the aesthetic, offering avant-garde Asian fusion with a French influence. Every detail, from the mirrored ceilings to the muted atmosphere, exudes cinematic elegance. The Black Swan is a Michelin-starred restaurant with views is not just a restaurant, it is a design experience that celebrates beauty, contrast and imagination.
8. Ortenisa- Shanghai, China
- Location- Shanghai, China
- Timings- Evening reservation required
Why its stunning?
Ortensia in Shanghai combines floral inspiration with sophisticated French elegance. The interior features soft pastels, floral motifs and golden details, creating a delicate, luxurious atmosphere reminiscent of a Parisian garden. Led by CSS Architecture, this romantic restaurant abroad celebrates sophistication, with a menu featuring contemporary French cuisine crafted with artistic precision. Light and texture provide warmth and calm, making every meal a sensory event. Recognised globally for its aesthetic excellence, Ōrtensia captures Shanghai’s cosmopolitan spirit — blending timeless beauty with modern refinement, making it one of Asia’s most enchanting dining spaces.
9. Ducasse Baccarat- Paris, France
- Location- Paris, France
- Timings- Typical dinner service reservations strongly recommended
Why its stunning?
Ducasse Baccarat is a collaboration between legendary chef Alain Ducasse and the iconic crystal brand Baccarat, one of the best dining destinations. Located in Paris, it exudes opulence — glittering chandeliers, crystal tableware, mirrored walls, and red velvet create a royal yet modern ambience. Each dining space glows with refracted light, giving the feeling of dining inside a jewel box. The French haute cuisine matches the setting — sophisticated, luxurious, and meticulously crafted. It’s an ode to French artistry, combining fine dining with the timeless elegance of Baccarat crystal. Every meal feels like an indulgent performance of taste and glamour, and must be included in your bucket list of restaurants.
10. Shell, Nusa Penida- Nusa Penida, Indonesia
- Location- Nusa Penida, Bali region, Indonesia
- Timings- Dinner/late afternoon sunset is the key time
Why its stunning?
Shell, designed by Pablo Luna Studio, is a stunning oceanfront restaurant shaped like a seashell on the cliffs of Nusa Penida. Its organic curves and open structure blend seamlessly with Bali’s tropical beauty. Made from bamboo and sustainable materials, it embraces eco-luxury architecture. Guests enjoy panoramic views of turquoise waters and sunsets while indulging in Balinese-inspired dishes at this stunning restaurant, which is worth travelling for. The ambience is both natural and ethereal, with ocean breezes and golden light enhancing the mood. Shell symbolises harmony between nature, design, and fine dining — a sustainable masterpiece by the sea.
11. Seven Island- Busan, South Korea
- Location-Busan, South Korea
- Timing- Evening/Dinner service bookings advised
Why is it stunning?
Perched along Busan’s scenic coastline, Seven Island is an architectural gem that merges minimalist design with dramatic ocean views. The restaurant with iconic views open, glass-lined spaces and terraced layout creates an immersive connection between sea and sky. The interior balances sleek modern materials with warm textures, achieving tranquil sophistication. At night, the glow of ambient lighting reflects on the water, creating a dreamlike atmosphere that enhances the dining experience. The cuisine emphasises fresh, seasonal seafood and local Korean flavours, celebrating the coastal lifestyle. Seven Island is both a visual and culinary escape — elegant, serene, and endlessly photogenic.
12. Wasabi by Morimoto- Taj Mahal Palace Mumbai
- Location- The Taj Mahal Palace, Apollo Bunder, Colaba, Mumbai
- Timings- 12:30 PM to 2:45 PM
Why is it stunning?
Perched within Mumbai’s most iconic luxury hotel, Wasabi, with unique dining restaurants worldwide by Morimoto, combines Japanese minimalism with Indian elegance. With floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the Gateway of India and the Arabian Sea, its modern interiors, signature cherry blossom hues, and world-class sushi by Chef Masaharu Morimoto create an atmosphere that is both serene and opulent. It's reportedly ranked among Asia’s most beautiful fine dining spaces.
13. Lobster Club Palma de Majorca- Palma de Majorca, Spain
- Location- Palma de Majorca, Balearic Islands, Spain
- Timings- Evening service reservations encouraged
Why is it stunning?
The Lobster Club, one of the most beautiful restaurants in the world, is located in Palma de Majorca. It is a glamorous seaside restaurant that blends Mediterranean elegance with modern coastal design. It overlooks the sparkling Bay of Palma, featuring charming interiors with soft neutral tones, and outdoor terraces that catch golden sunsets. The atmosphere is lively yet sophisticated, offering a mix of fine dining and laid-back energy. Specialising in seafood and Mediterranean cuisine, it is a stylish, unique dining destination worldwide where culinary artistry meets beachside luxury and cosmopolitan charm.
14. LUPA, Bengaluru
- Location-MG Road, Bengaluru
- Timings- Daily, 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Why is it stunning?
LUPA in Bengaluru is a charming Italian villa-inspired restaurant located on MG Road. It offers an authentic destination dining spot that is Tuscan and provides an extraordinary experience. Its elegant ambience features terracotta tiles, marble fountains, a brass bar, and cosy seating that transports diners to Italy. Guests can enjoy handcrafted pastas, wood-fired pizzas, fresh gelato, and an extensive wine selection. Open daily from 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM, LUPA combines exquisite food with a visually stunning, warm atmosphere perfect for casual and special occasions.
15. Robuchon au Dome- Macau
- Location-43rd Floor, Grand Lisboa Hotel, Avenida de Lisboa, Sé, Macau
- Timings- Dinner 6:30 AM to 10:30 PM
Situated atop the Grand Lisboa Hotel, Robuchon au Dôme is a three-Michelin-starred French restaurant with views and is renowned for its opulence and culinary excellence. Helmed by Chef Julien Tongourian, the restaurant offers a sophisticated dining experience with panoramic views of the city. The menu showcases refined French cuisine, emphasising seasonal ingredients and meticulous preparation. Its location in the hotel's glass dome adds to the allure, providing an unforgettable gastronomic journey.
Final Takeaway
From underwater wonders to revivals and futuristic eateries, these amazing restaurants with iconic views are redefining the art of dining. Each destination offers much more than food – it's an unforgettable sensory experience that blends architecture, culture and taste. Whether located underwater, in the clouds or inside natural caves, these restaurants transform dining into a wonderful global adventure.