The Wonders of Hospitality
Designer Dining Experiences
From the majestic fjords of Norway to the stunning Adriatic coastline. Soaring above the verdant jungles of Thailand, and the rugged peaks of the Chilean Andes. Exploring the world’s most extraordinary dining destinations, and possibilities when hospitality harmoniously blends with the natural environment.
Under (Lindesnes, Norway): Experiencing a Submerged Universe
This one of a kind dining experience is submerged at the southern tip of Norway in Lindesnes. Under, or Etymology (Norwegian for Under and Wonder) is the recipient of DOGA Award for Design and Architecture.
Known as the world’s largest undersea restaurant, the structure sits 5.5 meters below sea level. Helmed by Chef Nicolai Ellitsgaard and his team, Under, was awarded one star in the Michelin Guide after being opened for less than a year.
Guests are submerged beneath the waves to savor - ‘it is the sea that determines what ends up on your plate’ - with a panoramic view of the ocean floor serving as a backdrop.
“A periscope approach peering into nature’s own pantry.” Head Chef Bernt Sætre serves up a twelve-course seasonally driven dinner menu that comprises of taste and storytelling, an experience of fluid transitions.
Grotta Palazzese (Poligana a Mare, Italy)
With a stunning backdrop and incredible sea views, Grotta Palazzese offers a one-of-a-kind culinary journey within the confines of a stunning natural limestone cave, where the crashing of the Adriatic’s waves provides a serene backdrop to impeccably crafted Italian and Mediterranean specialties.
Located in the seaside town of Polignano a Mare, Italy, this restaurant is built directly into a historic limestone cave overlooking the Adriatic Sea. Carved into the cliff face, the cave’s natural rock formations and arched ceilings create an utterly unique and dramatic dining environment. Guests seated on terraces within the cave, enjoying the views of the azure waters and dramatic rocky coastline.
The cuisine features locally sourced ingredients from the Puglia region, with a focus on seafood and Mediterranean flavors. The cave setting and soothing sounds of the sea create an unforgettable immersive dining experience.
Tree Pod (Soneva Kiri, Thailand)
Located in tropical rainforest, on an unspoiled island with some of the best beaches in Thailand, Soneva Kiri is the Tree Pod. This unique concept offers an unparalleled blend of luxury and eco-friendly design.
Take a seat in our bamboo pod, which is raised up into the tropical foliage of Koh Kood’s ancient rain forest. Gaze out across the boulder-covered shoreline and dancing waves as you savor chilled delicacies, inspired small plates and curated beverages, delivered via zipline by your personal waiter.
Guests are elevated into the canopy with custom-built tree houses and enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the lush surroundings as they indulge in creative fusion cuisine. The menu offers a blend of Maldivian and Southeast Asian flavors, complemented by Nordic cooking techniques. The culinary heritage traces back to the days of the Indian maharajahs and maharanis.
In addition to the regular dining experience, the restaurant offers pop-up Michelin starred chef dining events.
Clos Apalta (Colchagua, Chile): Beneath the Vines
The jagged peaks of the Andes, with their snow-capped summits glinting in the sun, sweep across the undulating vineyards. A series of wooden platforms and pavilions are scattered across the hillside, each offering slightly different perspective of the dramatic landscape. Canopies of gnarled grape vines, their tendrils reaching out as if to grasp the crystal-clear waters of the nearby lake.
Sipping on a glass or two of Clos Apalta, a wine that somehow tastes of the earth from which the grapes were grown, at the renowned Clos Apalta Residence, member of Relais & Châteaux and a family-owned winery tucked away in the heart of Chile’s Colchagua Valley.
Viticulture
Colchagua Valley, is often referred to as ‘beneath the vines’ due to its distinctive geographic location and climate. The wines grown here contribute to this ‘beneath the vine’ moniker.
The protected valley habitat is situated between the coastal mountain range to the west and the Andes Mountains to the east. The geographic setting provides the terroir with shelter from winds, serving as a windbreak. The mountains contribute to moderate temperatures in the valley, preventing extreme heat or cold. The terrain allows for excellent drainage and the altitude yields an intermediate level of sun exposure. This balanced climate creates an optimal setting for viticulture.
The vineyards are shielded from harsh winds and temperature extremes. The high-altitude, sun-drenched surroundings are idyllic growing environment for red grape varieties that thrive in this terroir. This combination of climate and geography is acclaimed for age-worthy wines.
Clos Apalta, with a concentrated structure, elegant tannins, red and black fruit, is the award- winning, artisanal flagship wine of the Lapostolle Residence winery. There one finds refined cuisine that exalts the natural flavors of Chile, paired with the estate’s most beautiful vintage wine.
Dining at Clos Apalta Residence where the meal that elevates the expression of the natural world is a true testament to the power of place, and the indelible marks it can leave upon us.
Hospitality is a Lifestyle! And this ethos of extraordinary episodes transports guests to enchanting venues around the world, evoking a spirit of wonder and discovery as they are immersed in breathtaking settings that ignite the imagination.
The unforgettable memories for adventurous epicures who seek not just a meal, but a true expression of hospitality as a way of life!
Wishing you all safe summer travels!
Definitely want to try out all these places!!
Thank you, Kiran. You've given me a beautiful new reason to visit Norway!