Must Visit Restaurants for Design Lovers
In today’s culinary world, dining is no longer just about the food; it’s a multi-sensory experience where design plays an essential role. Over the years, restaurants have transformed from mere places to eat into immersive spaces that engage guests in a dialogue between architecture, ambiance, and flavors. From minimalist interiors to bold, avant-garde spaces, the design of a restaurant is now an integral part of the dining experience, offering a deeper connection between the environment and the meal. For design lovers, this evolution has made dining out an exciting exploration of creativity, where every detail - from the layout and lighting to the furniture and decor - works in tandem with the menu to create an unforgettable experience.
The careful selection of materials, the choice of colors, and the thoughtful arrangement of space all contribute to the overall feeling of the place, influencing not just how food is enjoyed but how it is perceived. A well-designed restaurant offers more than just a meal; it becomes a destination, a place to linger, converse, and immerse oneself in a curated atmosphere that enhances the flavors of the food. This post explores some of the most design-centric restaurants around the world, showcasing how innovative design, paired with exceptional food, can redefine the dining experience. From hidden gems to Michelin-starred hot spots, these places elevate dining to an art form, proving design and food truly belong together.
Lulu Bar
Lisbon, Portugal
Lulu Bar is Lisbon’s go-to spot for eclectic design and artisanal cocktails. Its retro interiors make it a visual delight. The playful decor nods to Lisbon’s vibrant cultural scene, combining Art Deco and tropical influences. Whether for cocktails or late-night bites, Lulu Bar is a feast for the eyes and the palate.
Why Visit:
Design: A mix of Art Deco and tropical elements, with bold colors and textures.
Food: Inventive small plates with Portuguese and international flavors.
Experience: A vibrant, social space ideal for evening gatherings.
Place Carmine
Montreal, Canada
Place Carmine is a chic restaurant-bar in Montreal that’s celebrated for its minimalist yet warm interiors. The space emphasizes natural light, with large windows and earthy tones that create a welcoming vibe. It’s a perfect blend of design-forward aesthetics and a cozy, intimate atmosphere.
Why Visit:
Design: Scandinavian-inspired decor with clean lines and natural materials.
Food: Seasonal, market-driven dishes with global influences.
Experience: A laid-back yet sophisticated spot for food and cocktails.
D’O
Milan, Italy
D’O, located in the heart of Milan, is the innovative restaurant by renowned chef Davide Oldani. The design of D’O reflects its culinary philosophy, with minimalist decor that emphasizes natural materials like wood and stone. The modern, sleek ambiance creates an intimate yet refined environment where food takes center stage. D’O is known for offering high-end dining with a focus on simplicity and quality.
Why Visit:
Design: A clean, contemporary space featuring minimalist decor with wood, stone, and neutral tones, allowing the food to be the focal point.
Food: A modern take on Italian cuisine, with innovative dishes that focus on simplicity, balance, and local, high-quality ingredients.
Experience: A high-end, elegant dining experience with a philosophy of “pop cuisine,” blending Michelin-starred quality with a relaxed, approachable atmosphere.
Bar Luce
Milan, Italy
Bar Luce, located within the Fondazione Prada, is a café designed by filmmaker Wes Anderson. The space evokes 1950s Milanese café culture, with pastel hues, retro details, and a nostalgic atmosphere. Its design captures Anderson’s signature whimsical style while blending harmoniously with the contemporary art world around it. A unique destination where art, coffee, and design come together.
Why Visit:
Design: A whimsical, retro ambiance designed by Wes Anderson, with pastel hues, vintage furniture, and playful details.
Food: Traditional Italian espresso drinks and pastries, paired with a delightful menu of casual Italian fare.
Experience: A unique, cinematic atmosphere where every corner feels like a set from an Anderson film, blending art and design with a coffee break.
Alchemist
Copenhagen, Denmark
Alchemist is an avant-garde dining experience in Copenhagen that fuses gastronomy, art, and theater. Designed by Studio Duncalf, the restaurant is housed in an industrial building transformed into a multi-sensory universe, with a dome projecting immersive visuals. The space reflects a seamless blend of futuristic minimalism and emotional storytelling. It’s a thought-provoking journey that challenges conventional ideas about fine dining.
Why Visit:
Design: Striking visual installations and a minimalist, futuristic aesthetic.
Food: A 50-course menu that challenges the boundaries of taste and presentation.
Experience: Dining as a performance art piece, with themes exploring global issues like sustainability.
Under
Båly, Norway
Europe’s first underwater restaurant, Under, is an architectural marvel by Snøhetta. Submerged in the icy Norwegian waters, the restaurant’s design harmonizes with its marine environment. Its concrete shell was built to endure harsh sea conditions while encouraging marine life to grow on its exterior. Inside, guests are treated to a cozy, intimate ambiance that contrasts beautifully with the untamed ocean outside.
Why Visit:
Design: A sleek, half-sunken monolith blending into the seabed.
Food: A menu celebrating local seafood and sustainability.
Experience: Dining with panoramic views of marine life through a massive window.
V8
Vienna Austria
V8 is a modern brasserie located in a historic industrial building, and its design merges contemporary elegance with raw, industrial elements. This juxtaposition creates a space that feels both stylish and approachable. Whether for a casual meal or a celebratory night out, V8 offers a fresh take on Vienna’s dining scene.
Why Visit:
Design: Exposed brick walls, sleek lighting, and mid-century furniture.
Food: Elevated brasserie classics with Austrian influences.
Experience: A trendy yet cozy vibe perfect for food and design enthusiasts.
Gigi
Ghent, Belgium
Gigi is a playful yet refined eatery with interiors design by Beata Heuman, known for her vibrant and eclectic style. Located in the heart of Ghent, it’s a favorite for foodies and design lovers alike. The decor is a masterful mix of vintage and contemporary elements, creating a space that feels both inviting and luxurious. Gigi is perfect for those who appreciate an atmosphere as rich as the menu itself.
Why Visit:
Design: Bold patterns, pastel tones, and whimsical accents.
Food: Modern European dishes with a creative twist.
Experience: A lively atmosphere that feels like a celebration of color and cuisine.
La Sponda
Positano, Italy
Nestled in the iconic Le Sirenuse hotel, La Sponda is a romantic restaurant that captures the charm of the Amalfi Coast with its design and menu. The restaurant is known for its hundreds of flickering candles, which create an unforgettable dining experience after sunset. Its design pays homage to the region’s heritage, with details like hand-painted ceramics and flowering vines.
Why Visit:
Design: Hand-painted tiles, lush greenery, and candlelit interiors.
Food: Mediterranean cuisine with local ingredients and fresh flavors.
Experience: Spectacular views of Positano’s cliffs and coastline.
Villa Palladio Jaipur
Rajasthan, India
Villa Palladio Jaipur is a feast for the senses, blending Indian opulence with Italian flair. This boutique hotel’s dining room is as striking as the flavors it offers. The bold red interiors are a visual spectacle, echoing the grandeur of Rajasthan’s palaces. It’s a destination that feels equally indulgent and intimate, perfect for special occasions.
Why Visit:
Design: Rich red interiors with intricate patterns and antique furnishings.
Food: A fusion of Indian and European dishes inspired by local ingredients.
Experience: A regal dining experience that transports you to a bygone era.
Stand Up Udon Noodel
Shibuya City, Japan
Stand Up Udon Noodel is a fast-casual Udon shop that captures the essence of Japan’s bustling food culture. With minimalist interiors designed for quick and efficient service, the restaurant focuses on delivering the freshest, most authentic udon in a no-frills setting. This unique style of dining is centered around standing at high counters, reflecting the fast-paced, on-the-go nature of many Japanese meals.
Why Visit:
Design: Simple, utilitarian interiors with standing counters that encourage quick, casual dining without sacrificing comfort or quality.
Food: Authentic udon noodles served in a variety of flavorful broths, with options for toppings like tempura, egg, and green onions.
Experience: A fast-paced yet authentic dining experience that offers a glimpse into the true spirit of Japanese food culture, perfect for a quick, satisfying meal.
Larios Café
Madrid, Spain
Larios Café in Madrid is a stylish blend of contemporary design and classic Spanish elegance, offering a unique setting for both locals and visitors. The space features sleek, modern interiors with bold, colorful accents and plush seating, creating a chic yet comfortable atmosphere. It’s an ideal spot to experience a dynamic blend of Mediterranean flavors and vibrant nightlife in Madrid.
Why Visit:
Design: A chic and contemporary space with modern furnishings, bold colors, and a stylish ambiance that combines comfort with elegance.
Food: Mediterranean-inspired dishes, including fresh seafood, tapas, and inventive cocktails, made with locally sourced ingredients.
Experience: A lively yet sophisticated dining and social experience, offering a perfect spot to enjoy delicious food and drinks while soaking in Madrid’s energetic atmosphere.
Sixième Bistrò
Milan, Italy
Sixième Bistrò brings a touch of Parisian charm to the Italian city, blending the cozy warmth of a classic French bistro with modern Italian influences. The design is chic yet relaxed, with subtle references to French Art Deco and Milanese elegance. Its interior features clean lines, neutral colors, and a welcoming atmosphere perfect for both casual and special occasions.
Why Visit:
Design: Chic, understated Parisian-style interiors with neutral tones, art deco accents, and a relaxed, sophisticated vibe.
Food: A French-inspired menu with an Italian twist, focusing on fresh, seasonal ingredients and impeccable execution of classic bistro dishes.
Experience: A cozy yet refined bistro experience that brings a taste of Parisian dining to Milan, ideal for both a casual meal and romantic night out.
