Azurmendi, Larrabetzu, Spain
Right outside of Bilbao is where you’ll find Azurmendi, right in Basque country. This restaurant is a pinnacle of sustainability as it was constructed with recycled materials and renewable energy technology like climate control systems that use geothermal energy and solar panels. You start out the evening at.a picnic-style setup in the garden and then are seated in the dining room, where you’ll enjoy dishes made with ingredients that are locally sourced crated by Chef Eneko Atxa.
Gaggan Anand Restaurant, Bangkok
Chef Gaggan Anand is known for taking the rule book and throwing it out altogether in order to create a fantastic and unique dining experience at his restaurant that bears his name. The dishes are completely out of this world and come arranged like artwork, some resembling a jigsaw puzzle, a passport with emojis, and some dishes are served with a side of music too.
Hiakai, Wellington, New Zealand
When Chef Monique Fiso realized that there was a total lack of Māori cuisine found in New Zealand, she set out to make a change and make Māori dishes more accessible. She then opened Hiakai that features a menu that focuses on local legends and myths that inspire the delicious food that incorporates the native flavors of Māori cuisine.
Alinea, Chicago
Chef Grant Achatz heads Alinea where he provides not just a mind-blowing culinary experience but also a visually incredible one. The dishes are works of art and are the height of creativity. Some amazing dishes include edible helium balloons, lamb that’s been cooked 3 different ways with 86 accompaniments, and plating that would give some painters a run for their moneyl
Osteria Francescana, Modena, Italy
Speaking of creativity, one of the leading talents in haute cuisine is Massimo Bottura. His Osteria Francescana showcases his incredible vision, where you can find dishes like “Oops! I Dropped the Lemon Tart,” and “the Crunch Part of the Lasagna.” The dishes are visually stunning, and the meal itself is absolutely to die for.