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Fine Dining: 8 Restaurants to Try on Your Next European Trip

All great holidays away need a crowning moment—an activity that becomes the heart of the trip. And what better way to indulge your senses than by prioritising your taste buds? Prepare for a getaway that transcends mere sustenance—a culinary adventure where artistry meets flavour, and every bite tells a story. Savour meticulously crafted dishes, indulge in culinary surprises and be enchanted by the ingenuity of European cuisine.  From award-winning dining rooms to rising culinary stars, these fine-dining restaurants are the crowning jewels of any epicurean pilgrimage. Elevate your trip from sightseeing to an unforgettable gastronomic escapade and embark on a weekend filled with unparalleled food, impeccable service and memories that will linger on your palate.

Bon appétit!

Ghan House, Ireland

Located in the medieval town of Carlingford in stunning Ireland, the restaurant at Ghan House is a must-visit destination. This acclaimed eatery has proudly held its highly coveted 2AA Rosettes since 2011, showcasing its unwavering commitment to culinary excellence. Nestled near Carlingford Lough, Ghan House celebrates the abundance of local treasures. The menu showcases renowned Carlingford oysters; crab and lobster from the rocky shores where the Lough meets the Irish Sea; and succulent Cooley/Mourne lamb and beef sourced from the nearby mountain slopes. The team here crafts dishes that highlight the freshness and quality of these local ingredients, and almost everything is made in-house — from fresh breads to stocks and sauces. Produce from the organic vegetable garden and fresh herbs from the herb patch ensure every meal served in the magnificent dining room is memorable. 

Don’t miss: the locally-reared fillet of beef — a rich, delicious, melt-in-the-mouth dish.

Park Hotel Kenmare, Ireland

Also situated in Ireland along the windswept coastline of the Wild Atlantic Way, the restaurant at the Park Hotel Kenmare can only be described as glorious. Executive Chef James Coffey (a keen forager, hunters and fisherman himself) embraces a culinary philosophy centred around locality, seasonality and sustainability. The menu is exceptional and wholly inspired by the abundance of produce in the area. With a focus on the freshest of fish caught locally and the kitchen garden located in Dromquinna Manor (a sister property to the Park), artisan producers play a significant role in creating an unforgettable dining experience. 

Don’t miss: the seafood (all of it!) — always the star of the show.

Dalen Hotel, Norway

Dating back to 1894, Norway’s Dalen Hotel offers a captivating glimpse into history and European nobility. The hotel’s Restaurant Bandak pays homage to the grandeur of French cuisine while incorporating authentic Norwegian produce and seasonal ingredients. Led by acclaimed chefs Peter Sandqvist and Joachim Johansson, the culinary team presents remarkable dishes featuring ingredients such as truffles and game meats. Think crisp white tablecloths, flickering candles and exceptional service delivered by attentive staff in white gloves and bow ties –  an exceptional dining experience.

Don’t miss: the confit duck breast.. with a side of indulgent, creamy Pommes Anna. Delicious.

Palazzo Tiglio, Italy

A Tuscan dream, the Palazzo Tiglio showcases the very finest local ingredients while paying homage to the country’s rich culinary heritage. Drawing inspiration from the region, Executive chef Mattia Parlanti handpicks ingredients including sun-kissed tomatoes, fragrant basil, silky olive oil and artisanal cheeses. Tuscany on a plate — the menu here is filled with meticulously crafted dishes and the extensive wine list offers perfect pairings. Choose from two elegant art-filled dining rooms or a sun-drenched terrace with stunning sunset views over the valley. 

Don’t miss: the five-course tasting menu with wine pairings. Bellissimo! 

Hotel l’Helios & Spa, France

If you’re looking for sophisticated, refined cuisine, you can’t look past the master… France. With this in mind, Le Doron Restaurant at Hotel l’Helios & Spa in Meribel does not disappoint. Offering incredible food with unparalleled views of the majestic peaks and Doron piste, the restaurant holds the titles of Master Restaurateur and Tables & Auberges de France. Chef Michael Aurey and his team blend authenticity with inventiveness, resulting in dishes that beautifully showcase Savoie’s rich culinary past with a modern twist. 

Don’t miss: the homemade foie gras pistachio terrine finished with pickled vegetables.

Chateau Liblice, Czech Republic

Tucked away in the captivating Chateau Liblice, a gem of a hotel in the Czech Republic, you’ll find a restaurant that oozes timeless charm. A talented team creates mouthwatering dishes using the freshest seasonal ingredients, highlighting the incredible local produce. The atmosphere is refined yet laid-back, with a friendly and attentive staff. And let’s not forget the carefully curated wine selection that perfectly complements the menu here. Get ready to immerse yourself in the delights of Czech cuisine, all while enjoying the enchanting surroundings of this extraordinary place.

Don’t miss: the fallow deer roast. 

Sieraków Manor, Poland

At Sieraków Manor in Poland, the culinary experience is a marriage of Polish traditions and international flavours. The manor’s restaurant embraces a farm-to-table concept, sourcing ingredients regularly from their own organic garden. Central to the restaurant’s philosophy is the use of premium ingredients and the kitchen prides itself on sourcing the finest produce from local suppliers who share their commitment to quality. From succulent meats and fresh fish to vibrant vegetables and seasonal fruits, each ingredient is carefully selected while the elegant dining room with its stately ambiance adds to the overall charm.

Don’t miss: the snails! Fed exclusively on farm produce, they are supplied by a small organic farm in nearby Winiary.

Esperas Santorini Hotel, Greece

Esperas Santorini is home to the Ombra Restaurant in gorgeous sun-soaked Greece. The menu here pays tribute to the vibrant tastes of the Mediterranean, with a particular focus on seafood. Indulge in a fresh catch of sea bass, or revel in the succulent textures of expertly prepared cod. Each dish is crafted with love by a talented team of chefs, and as the sun sets over the breathtaking Caldera you’ll experience a true feast for the senses. Complementing the exquisite cuisine is an exceptional wine selection, carefully curated to enhance the flavours of each dish. 

Don’t miss: the grilled octopus – perfect with a crisp white wine.

Still hungry? Explore more European gourmet experiences with our guide to some of the best restaurants on the continent

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