A Taste of the Unknown: Unique Culinary Experiences
March 6, 2024 by Hidden Doorways
For many, food is the gatekeeper to an entire library of memories. From the smells that ignite nostalgia to the tastes that evoke an unforgettable experience — the meals that people most enjoy are far from just a source of fuel. ‘Eat like a local’ has become the phrase of the day — a quest to find unique, authentic experiences that allow immersion into another culture via one’s taste buds. These are the kinds of experiences that will live on long after setting foot on home soil. From home-grown produce to learning age-old fishing techniques and the art of open-fire cooking, this round-up reveals our menu of the most unique culinary experiences across the globe.
Catch & Cook at Villa Avellana, Costa Rica
From rivers and wetlands to two expansive coastlines, Costa Rica has long benefited from the rich marine life that surrounds it. Unsurprisingly, fishing is an integral part of Costa Rican culture with a history that dates back thousands of years. Guides at Villa Avellana are passionate about this, teaching guests age-old techniques in spearfishing or catching by line before demonstrating traditional ways to prepare the fish. Designed to foster a deeper connection with nature, Villa Avellana’s ‘Catch & Cook’ experience enriches guests with the tools and knowledge to catch and prepare fish — ending their day enjoying some well-earned ceviche and local fried snapper.
Open-Fire Cooking at Casa Palopó, Guatemala
Open-fire cooking has long been favored by the indigenous people of Guatemala and Kinnik at Casa Palopó offers a window into this primal cooking technique. Situated along the shores of Lake Atitlán, each experience is tailored to the client against a breathtakingly beautiful backdrop. Guests can enjoy a tutorial in meat selection and preparation before food is prepared and cooked at their table, to allow for a unique and interactive dining experience.
The Festival of Flavors at the Waldorf Astoria Pedregal – Los Cabos, Mexico
With an impressive line-up of globally recognized chefs led by Executive Chef Gustavo Pinet, the Festival of Flavors is a must-attend for culinary enthusiasts. Running across two weekends in April and May, at the Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal, guests will have direct access to an entire menu of the world’s Michelin-star culinary masters. Where the finest ingredients are sourced to bring an array of unique flavors and exquisite pairings to diners, this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to feast with the world’s finest all weekend long.
The Danilia Experience at Corfu Imperial, Greece
Corfu Imperial offers its guests the opportunity to make lifelong “bucket list” memories. Corfu living and flair is celebrated at the Grecotel-created Danilia, a unique replica of a traditional, picture-perfect Corfiot village, the iconic setting for an unforgettable feast. Authentic, colorful and private, this picture-perfect village nestled in the verdant greenery of Corfu, offers a unique gastronomic experience. There, you will taste the very best of traditional Greek cuisine, along with live music and dances. Only fresh, organic farm produce is used in the menu and the chefs prepare entirely in the village’s kitchens.
Infused with the inherent kindness and warmth of the Corfiot culture, a pristine level of service and delightful surprises, Danilia will make you feel the Greek ‘kefi’ – the art de vivre. Corfu Imperial champions the island’s cultural heritage and it’s their expertise to craft your outstanding Greek story.
The Epicure at The Dolder Grand, Switzerland
Set on a verdant hillside in Zurich, The Dolder Grand invites culinary enthusiasts to a week-long experience like no other. Hosted by 2-Michelin starred chef, Heiko Nieder, each day guests will find themselves whisked away by an 8-course menu designed by a different chef. From South Korea’s Sung Anh Mosu to Britain’s Simon Rogan – each menu will transport diners to a different destination leaving even the largest of appetites satiated.
Wine and Dine at Twin Farms, Vermont, USA
Nestled in the green mountains of Vermont is Twin Farms – a resort and spa that prides itself on its seasonal cuisine, amongst many other things. Estate-grown herbs and vegetables lie at the heart of every meal (that are all included with every stay) with a focus on making guests feel at home. Allow Chef Nathan Rich to invite your clients on a culinary journey complete with wine pairings to be enjoyed whether in one of the estate’s dining areas or pulled together for a picnic by the pond.
Exploring Extraordinary British Cuisine
From London’s 69 Michelin-starred restaurants to private cookery courses deep in green and pleasant lands, Britain has much to offer an array of appetites. Alongside Extraordinary Britain, your clients can indulge at a chef’s table at one of the capital’s most sought-after establishments or head to one of the many state-of-the-art wineries to enjoy some internationally acclaimed English sparkling wine. If there’s a taste for tipples — gin-making workshops and whiskey distilleries are worth a visit. And for those with more of an appetite for adventure, perhaps learning to shuck oysters in Galway or visiting an Aberdeen Angus cattle farm would be more enticing. There really is something for everyone.
Community-to-Fork Cooking at Trisara, Phuket, Thailand
Phuket’s first and only Michelin-starred restaurant, Pru, resides alongside the luxurious Trisara resort. Alongside breathtaking views of the ocean, diners can enjoy the rarest of Thai ingredients — from the most fragrant peppercorns to Ceylon oak that grows 50 meters above ground. Its ‘theater-style’ kitchen is not only designed to entertain diners but to foster a closer connection to the meticulous processes that go into each and every dish.
Les Mutinés at The Brando, French Polynesia
Movie buffs might be particularly interested in the most recent offering from Les Mutinés at The Brando, but this star-studded resort is certainly high on the bucket list for any luxury traveler. French chef Jean Imbert has recently relaunched the restaurant with a menu that takes diners on a journey through Marlon Brando’s ‘Mutiny on the Bounty’. A truly unique and highly creative culinary experience that will forge memories for years to come.
