Though it’s hard to conclusively prove that any restaurant is the absolute “best” in the world, I’ve gathered together a few restaurants that are overwhelmingly considered stunning places to dine. They have achieved this distinction from their Michelin stars, various publications that employ experts to review top restaurants, and also general reviews from patrons who dined at the establishments. Take a look at some details about these restaurants that I’ve provided below and then check out their individual websites for more information on their history and menus.
Osteria Francescana – Modena, Italy
This restaurant was voted the World’s Best Restaurant in 2016 by a panel of nearly 1,000 international gastronomic experts. It opened in 1995 and has since received three Michelin stars and various awards. Head chef Massimo Battura is considered “a key figure among a new generation of chefs”. Battura offers two menus at Osteria Francescana, “Sensations”, which changes from season to season, and “Tradition in Evolution”, which features favorites from the region around Modena and the chef’s homeland. There are only twelve tables in the restaurant, so reservations must be made quite a bit in advance.
Their website is here.
Eleven Madison Park – New York, USA
Eleven Madison Park is considered by many to be New York City’s top restaurant, which is a high honor considering the city is home to some of the best restaurants and chefs in the entire world. In 2006, David Humm took over as the owner and chef, which rocketed Eleven Madison Park into accolade after accolade because of their mouthwatering dishes. The restaurant has been granted three Michelin stars and a four-star review in The New York Times. They offer a menu that utilizes local ingredients and consists of 7-9 courses for guests to enjoy. The restaurant has even published a few cookbooks, so try your hand at some of their recipes in the comfort of your own home!
Take a look at their website here.
El Celler de Can Roca – Girona, Spain
El Celler de Can Roca is arguably the most successful family restaurant in the entire world. It was founded in 1986 by two brothers, Josep and Joan Roca, next door to their parents’ restaurant. Joan has held the position of head chef for the last three decades, notably developing the sous-vide cooking method. Josep operates as the restaurant’s sommelier, while their younger brother, Jordi, joined the team in the last couple of decades and has brought his phenomenal pastry skills along with him. The restaurant was awarded its third Michelin star in 2009. The restaurant’s online store offers various books from the brothers about cooking and the history of their business. The brothers are inspired by traditional Catalan cuisine, then place their own modern, “avant-garde” twist on it.
Check out the restaurant’s website here.
