The most romantic dining experiences around the world

Magical meals in unforgettable locations

Some meals are memorable because of the food. Others, because of the setting. And then there are those rare, magical experiences that do both. From candlelit castles to treetop tables, these hotel dining experiences are made for romance. Whether it’s a private dinner on a sandbank or a front-row seat to nature’s greatest shows, here’s where to go for a meal that’ll seriously impress.

The Secret Table at The Peninsula Paris

Paris is already romantic, but The Secret Table at The Peninsula takes it to another level. Hidden away with panoramic views of the Eiffel Tower, this ultra-private dining experience is the definition of exclusive. You get your own heated winter cocoon (designed by Roche Bobois, no less), which disappears in warmer months to reveal an open-air setting. A dedicated butler, a private elevator and a Michelin-starred menu make this one of the most intimate dinners in the city.

Bird’s Nest at Banyan Tree Krabi, Thailand

Why sit at a regular table when you can have dinner in a treetop pod? At Banyan Tree Krabi, these private "bird’s nests" are perched above the jungle with unbeatable views of the Andaman Sea. The setting is as good as the food, with Thai-inspired tasting menus featuring fresh seafood and creative takes on local classics. There’s even an afternoon tea with mango sticky rice mousse cake, because romance is best served with dessert.

Truffle Hunting at Castello di Casole, A Belmond Hotel, Italy

Truffles are basically diamonds for food lovers, and Tuscany is one of the best places to find them. At Castello di Casole, you’ll head into the oak forests with expert truffle-hunting dogs before returning to the hotel for a feast built around your freshly unearthed treasures. If you want to get even more hands-on, the hotel also offers cooking classes, so you can master Italian classics before indulging in your own culinary masterpiece.

Private Sandbank Experience at Soneva Fushi, Maldives

At Soneva Fushi, you’ll be whisked away to a private sandbank, where a luxurious Bedouin-style tent with its own bathroom awaits. A personal attendant sets up a candlelit dinner before disappearing, leaving you and your partner alone under the Maldivian stars. When morning comes, breakfast arrives at your chosen time.

The Azalea at Glenapp Castle, Scotland

Glenapp Castle already looks like something out of a fairy tale, but The Azalea, a glasshouse restaurant inside the castle’s walled garden, makes it even more magical. With grapevines, peach trees and a menu full of locally sourced ingredients, this is a dining experience fit for royalty. The braised Ayrshire lamb with celeriac purée is a standout, but everything tastes better when eaten in a castle.

The Beach Club at Amanera, Dominican Republic

Most waterfront restaurants promise a great view, but at Amanera, the entertainment comes courtesy of migrating humpback whales. From January to April, these giants make their way through the waters off the Dominican Republic’s northeast coast, and the resort’s Beach Club restaurant offers the perfect vantage point. With a menu of Latin-inspired dishes made from fresh local ingredients, this is one meal where you might find yourself distracted in the best possible way.

Vineyard Picnic with Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat, A Four Seasons Hotel, France

Some wine tastings come with a cheeseboard. This one comes with a helicopter. At Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat, you can take a scenic flight over the French Riviera before landing at Château de Selle for a private tasting. Expect world-class rosé, vintage wines and a picnic created by a Michelin-starred chef.

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