One of the joys of traveling is experiencing something new, and that includes food. When I reflect on some of the places I’ve been, my memories recall not just the visual aesthetics of a place but also the aromas, textures, and tastes. The following five places resonate with me because they represent the best meals ever, the most amazing meals I’ve had while traveling.
5.) Al Mahara, Dubai, UAE
At the seven-star Burj Al Arab hotel, everything is glamorous, including the food. Though meals at the Al Mahara restaurant will set you back a pretty penny, dining under the romantic lighting of a floor-to-ceiling aquarium filled with colorful marine life, while sampling exquisite entrees, such as gold leaf mushroom risotto, was nothing short of extraordinary. The experience marked the first and only time I’ve ever eaten gold leaf.
4.) Les Ateliers Medelices, Martinique
While in Martinique, I took a culinary class with Les Ateliers Medelices, where I learned how to prepare some amazing local dishes like mango souskay with pomme d’eau (a local fruit that looks like an apple); codfish fritters fried in manioc flour; green banana salad; and a pineappple dessert with fresh vanilla topped with coconut “rocks” made from coconut powder. We diced up and added some fried plaintains to the mix (one of this lady’s favorite foods)! The blend of textures and tropical flavors was so creative, fresh, and simply good to the last bite!
3.) Seven Glaciers, Girdwood, Alaska
From Alaskan king crab cakes with chile lime aioli to strawberry cheesecake with vanilla ice cream, the food at the Alyeska Ski Resort’s Seven Glaciers restaurant was divine. However, I could not decide which one was better–the food or the view since the restaurant sits atop a mountain overlooking seven hanging glaciers.
2.) Local Family’s House, Ninh Binh Province, Vietnam
My love affair with Vietnam cuisine started with the very first taste, and this meal at a local family’s house was the cherry on top! From spring rolls to papaya salad, every dish was mouthwatering good.
1.) Lagoon, Bora Bora, French Polynesia
Nothing can match the ambience and setting of outdoor dining during sunset at the St. Regis Bora Bora. Lagoon restaurant, founded by Chef Jean-Georges, was the ultimate dining experience! I savored every bite of my seven-course meal, especially the pan-seared deep sea barracuda entree. C’est magnifique!
