Food is one of the best ways to experience a new place, and what better way to do so than with a culinary tour at a dreamy resort? Traveling around the world through its flavors is a bucket-list adventure for many food lovers, and the growing trend of resort-based culinary tours offers an immersive, unforgettable experience. Whether you’re savoring sushi in Japan, tasting the freshest seafood in the Maldives, or indulging in Italian cuisine on the Amalfi Coast, these resorts take you on a journey through the world’s most iconic dishes, all while offering luxurious accommodations and stunning scenery. Here’s a look at five of the best resorts offering culinary tours around the world, each one featuring unique, mouth-watering dishes that will make your taste buds dance.
1. Soneva Fushi – Maldives: Seafood Paradise
There’s no better place to dive into the fresh and vibrant flavors of the Indian Ocean than at Soneva Fushi in the Maldives. This luxurious resort, known for its eco-friendly philosophy and exclusive overwater villas, offers a culinary experience that takes guests on a journey through the Maldives’ rich seafood culture. The resort’s culinary offerings feature dishes that highlight the incredible freshness of the ocean, and the resort’s sustainability efforts ensure that everything is ethically sourced.
One of the highlights of my stay at Soneva Fushi was the Maldivian Seafood Journey, where we visited multiple dining locations across the island, each offering a different take on the region’s freshest catches. The first stop was Out of the Blue, an overwater restaurant where we had a delectable tuna carpaccio, made from fresh, local fish. The texture of the tuna was buttery and delicate, paired with a light citrus dressing that enhanced its natural sweetness. Another unforgettable dish was the Maldivian lobster, served with a tangy mango salsa that was both refreshing and rich in flavor. As I dined with my feet in the sand, the ocean breeze and the tranquil sound of waves lapping against the shore made it feel like I was in paradise.
Soneva Fushi also offers cooking classes where you can learn to prepare traditional Maldivian dishes using locally sourced ingredients. The culinary tours here are not just about tasting great food, but also about immersing yourself in the culture of the Maldives through its cuisine.
2. Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora – French Polynesia: A Taste of the South Pacific
Bora Bora is synonymous with luxury, and the Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora offers not just stunning views of the turquoise lagoon but also world-class dining that showcases the best of French Polynesia. The resort features a variety of dining experiences that take inspiration from both traditional Polynesian flavors and French culinary techniques, creating a fusion that is uniquely Bora Bora.
During my stay, I was fortunate enough to experience the Polynesian Seafood Feast, which included a selection of local dishes prepared with fresh ingredients straight from the surrounding waters. One standout dish was the poisson cru, a traditional Polynesian dish made from raw tuna marinated in coconut milk, lime juice, and fresh herbs. The creamy coconut milk complemented the tuna beautifully, and the citrusy kick from the lime brought the whole dish together in perfect harmony.
Another memorable dish was roast mahi-mahi, which was perfectly grilled and served with a rich vanilla beurre blanc sauce. The fish was flaky and tender, and the vanilla sauce, made from Tahitian vanilla, added an unexpected yet delightful sweetness that brought the dish to life.
The culinary tours at Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora also include private dining experiences, where you can enjoy a meal on the beach at sunset or a personalized picnic on a secluded island. Whether you’re dining in one of the resort’s restaurants or taking part in a cooking class, Bora Bora offers a culinary adventure that is as breathtaking as its scenery.
3. Aman Tokyo – Japan: Traditional Meets Modern
Japan is a land of culinary wonder, where ancient traditions and modern innovation come together to create unforgettable dining experiences. Aman Tokyo offers an upscale base to explore Tokyo’s vibrant food scene, and its own restaurants are an epitome of the Japanese culinary mastery. The resort’s blend of luxury and traditional Japanese design creates a serene and elegant atmosphere, perfect for indulging in world-class cuisine.
During my visit to Aman Tokyo, I participated in a Sushi Masterclass, where a renowned sushi chef taught us the art of preparing perfect sushi using the freshest fish available. The highlight was the nigiri, served with a piece of pristine tuna, salmon, or yellowtail, delicately placed on top of perfectly vinegared rice. Each piece of sushi was a work of art, and the flavors were so delicate yet complex that I could taste the ocean in every bite.
Aman Tokyo also offers a tasting menu at The Japanese Grill, where dishes like wagyu beef and tempura take center stage. The wagyu beef was so tender that it practically melted in my mouth, and the tempura, made with vegetables and seafood, was light, crispy, and simply irresistible. The resort’s culinary tour is an exploration of both the traditional and modern flavors of Japan, and it provides a unique way to discover the country’s rich food culture.
4. Le Sirenuse – Positano, Italy: A Mediterranean Feast
The Amalfi Coast is a dream destination for anyone who loves Italian cuisine, and Le Sirenuse in Positano offers the perfect setting for a culinary journey through the Mediterranean. With stunning views of the coastline and a Michelin-starred restaurant, La Sponda, Le Sirenuse is an ideal base for food lovers looking to explore the best of Italian cuisine.
During my time in Positano, I was able to take part in the Mediterranean Culinary Tour, where the resort’s chefs led us on a tour of local markets and producers. We visited a small olive farm, where we learned about the process of making extra virgin olive oil, and then headed to a nearby farm that grows organic lemons, which are used in the famous limoncello liquor. After the market visit, we returned to La Sponda for a cooking class where we prepared spaghetti alle vongole (spaghetti with clams), a classic Italian dish that celebrates the flavors of the sea. The clams, fresh from the Mediterranean, were tender and sweet, and the pasta was perfectly al dente.
Another unforgettable dish at La Sponda was the roast lamb, prepared with fresh herbs from the resort’s garden and served with a side of roasted potatoes. The lamb was cooked to perfection, with a crispy outer layer and tender, juicy meat that practically melted in my mouth. Dining at Le Sirenuse is not just about eating—it’s about experiencing the culture and history of Italy through its food.
5. The Ranch at Rock Creek – Montana, USA: A Taste of the Wild West
For a completely different culinary experience, The Ranch at Rock Creek in Montana offers a taste of the American West with a focus on locally sourced, sustainable ingredients. This all-inclusive resort is set on a working ranch, and much of the food served is either grown on the property or sourced from local farms. The resort’s rustic elegance and outdoor activities, like horseback riding and fly fishing, provide the perfect backdrop for a culinary adventure that celebrates the flavors of the American West.
One of the standout experiences at The Ranch at Rock Creek is the Ranch-to-Table Dinner, where guests are treated to a feast made with fresh, local ingredients. During my visit, I had the pleasure of tasting bison ribeye, which was cooked to perfection and served with roasted root vegetables. The bison had a rich, earthy flavor that was a true reflection of the wild beauty of Montana. Another highlight was the wild trout, which was caught fresh from the nearby river and prepared with a simple lemon-butter sauce that allowed the natural flavors of the fish to shine.
The Ranch at Rock Creek also offers cooking classes, where guests can learn to prepare classic Western dishes, like beef short ribs and huckleberry pie, using ingredients sourced directly from the property. This resort’s culinary tour is a journey through the flavors of the American West, with a focus on sustainability and the natural bounty of the land.