There are few better ways to experience a city than through its food. Whether trying local delicacies or enjoying dinner theater, a mouthwatering meal can provide a unique taste of even the most familiar destination.
Follow our guide to discover five high-end hotels offering up hometown flavors worth checking out just as soon you’ve checked in.
Perched on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, this Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star stunner is packed with Thai touches, from teak accents and traditional artwork to meticulously landscaped tropical gardens.
For a deeper dive into Bangkok’s cultural scene, take the complimentary boat across the river to the luxury hotel’s Sala Rim Naam restaurant. Dig into a multi-course menu of savory fare like goong phad prig daeng (fried prawns with garlic and red chili sauce) and khanom jeeb Thai(steamed Thai chicken and peanut dumplings) as a talented dance troupe outfitted in intricate costumes regales you with a classical Khon (masked dance-drama) performance.
Learn to re-create your magical night out (minus the intricate dance moves) with a lesson at the Bangkok hotel’s Oriental Thai Cooking School.
If you can tear yourself away from this Four-Star Osaka property’s cozy environs (the vintage art collection is incredible), venture just 10 miles away to the hotel-recommended Cupnoodles Museum Osaka Ikeda for a lesson in Japanese comfort food.
Show off your design chops by creating your own instant ramen package before filling the customized cup with your favorite soup (flavors include curry and chili tomato) and your choice of 12 toppings (like fish sausage, Chinese-style barbecue pork and corn). If you’re feeling more hands-on, head to the second floor to make your own ramen noodles.
Back at the hotel, swap out your packaged snacks for plated fare at classic French restaurant La Baie. And then wrap up at The Bar to sip on a selection of more than 100 malt whiskies.
Situated in the heart of downtown Miami’s dynamic dining scene, this Four-Star oasis is a food lover’s paradise with a stellar steakhouse and a poolside lounge serving a Caribbean-Latin menu.
Explore beyond the hotel’s culinary offerings with the newly launched Sights, Tastes and Sounds of Little Havana tour. Hop in a classic car with concierge Karla Ferrer for a quick trip to Calle Ocho (Little Havana’s main drag), where you’ll try Cuban coffee, peruse art galleries, sample local bites and listen to live salsa music.
If you’re still craving a little more, head to the hotel’s Edge Steak and Bar for happy hour nibbles with local flair like chorizo and cheddar croquetas (fried dumplings) or golden-brown tostones (twice-fried plantain slices).
With an address in one of the world’s most expensive neighborhoods, this Four-Star beauty in the Belgravia neighborhood knows a thing or two about indulgence. Get a taste of the district during Sweet Tooth Tours With COMO The Halkin.
Hop into a Rolls-Royce for a private tour of the enclave’s most decadent sweet spots, including luxe pastry boutique Pierre HerméParis, family-owned gelato shop Olivogelo and confectionery Rococo Chocolates. The experience culminates in a dessert demonstration back at the hotel with Ametsa head chef Ruben Briones. You’ll even get to eat the finished product.
Work off those treats with a scenic jog through nearby Hyde Park or with a few sun salutations in your room — all accommodations are outfitted with a yoga mat.
Savor island fare (and feel good doing it) with this St. Lucia retreat’s Eat Them to Beat Them dinner.
An invasive species to the Caribbean, lionfish wreak havoc on local marine life by eating almost everything in sight. To combat the threat, the luxury resort serves up a five-course feast featuring the distinctive fish. Nosh on stewed lionfish, fresh sashimi and citrus ceviche paired with New World wines amid a spectacular beach setting.
After dinner, head back to your tropical-hued accommodation for stargazing — three-walled rooms ensure you’ll enjoy an uninterrupted view of the sparkling night sky.
