All Restaurants

Really cosy little new American restaurant. They change the menu seasonally but pretty much everything is delicious . They do always have the Dried Porcini Doughnuts with Racelette and this is not to be missed.

Address: 199 Gough St, San Francisco, CA 94102, United States

An all-day counter bar and kitchen in Mayfair with a luxe American-diner spirit. Feel-good favourites - tuna melts, burgers, lobster, pasta - plus margaritas and classic cocktails, in a glossy, late-night setting.

Address: 31 Dover St, London W1S 4ND, UK

It is usually packed but generally a really nice atmosphere. The waiters come around with carts with dishes and you can take what you like almost like a traditional Chinese dim sum place (however, they are still considering the food to be American). The dishes are inventive but not too inventive to be pretentious.

Address: 1529 Fillmore St, San Francisco, CA 94115, United States

Zuni Cafe is one of those places you have to go to at least once while visiting San Francisco as it's part of their culinary history; it's around 40 years old. The famous burger was a bit too fancy for me but still very delicious. They only serve this in the evenings.

Address: 1658 Market St, San Francisco, CA 94102, United States

A small American restaurant on West Armitage Avenue. I had heard about Giant from the show The Bear and so I was eager to try it. The food is good but be ready for some really terrible service. Decide if it's worth it because at the end of the meal we weren't sure it was. I'm keeping it on the list because my focus is really on the quality of the food.

Address: 3209 W Armitage Ave, Chicago, IL 60647, United States

A long-running Argentinian place on Posadas in Recoleta, a few doors along from Fervor. This was my first restaurant in Buenos Aires and I loved everything I ate. Especially the dessert, with the generous dollop of dulce de leche that was a revelation to me at the time. It's a nice little traditional restaurant with a great selection of empanadas.

Address: Posadas 1515, C1112 Buenos Aires, Argentina

Interesting restaurant with inventive dishes and a great wine list.

Address: 53 Gertrude St, Fitzroy VIC 3065, Australia

Inventive dishes with local ingredients and international influences in a modern setting. Among the signature dishes are the blood sausage sandwich and king prawns doused in fermented shrimp butter. The desserts were very good as well.

Address: 46-52 Meagher St, Chippendale NSW 2008, Australia

Horváth is a modern Austrian restaurant that serves inventive and creative dishes. Everything here is delicious and the atmosphere is pleasant. I particularly like how they give you little cards describing each course that you can keep as a memento.

Address: Paul-Lincke-Ufer 44A, 10999 Berlin, Germany

The best Austrian restaurant in London. Really delicious Wiener schnitzel. The place is really lovely as it is made to look like a Viennese cafe.

Address: 50 Marylebone High St, London W1U 5HN, United Kingdom

A chic, artsy bistro in Vienna's Leopoldstadt, Skopik & Lohn is famed for the sprawling black-ink ceiling drawing arcing across its dining room. The kitchen serves refined Viennese classics alongside seasonal international dishes, paired with a well-chosen wine list. Warm, buzzy and effortlessly stylish.

Address: Leopoldsgasse 17, 1020 Wien, Austria

Founded in 1618, Zum Schwarzen Kameel is a Viennese institution near St. Stephen's Cathedral. Part Jugendstil restaurant, part bustling bar, deli and patisserie, it's renowned for its open sandwiches, fine wines and classic Austrian cooking amid historic Art Nouveau interiors.

Address: Bognergasse 5, 1010 Wien, Austria

Set inside the legendary Hotel Sacher opposite the State Opera, Restaurant Rote Bar dazzles with crimson silk walls, glittering chandeliers and old-world Viennese grandeur. The kitchen presents elevated Austrian cuisine, from celebrated Tafelspitz to the original Sacher-Torte.

Address: Philharmoniker Str. 4, 1010 Wien, Austria

A beloved fixture of Vienna's old university quarter since 1979, Oswald & Kalb serves hearty Viennese and Styrian cuisine in an atmospheric, art-filled historic vault. Expect classics like Wiener Schnitzel and Tafelspitz, generous portions and a convivial, bohemian buzz.

Address: Bäckerstraße 14, 1010 Wien, Austria

Established in 1704, Ofenloch is one of Vienna's most historic restaurants, serving traditional Viennese cuisine in atmospheric vaulted dining rooms in the old town. Enjoy classics such as Wiener Schnitzel, Tafelspitz and caramelised Kaiserschmarrn, paired with fine local wines.

Address: Kurrentgasse 8, 1010 Wien, Austria

The flagship of the famed Plachutta family, this Wollzeile restaurant is synonymous with Vienna's most celebrated Tafelspitz, boiled beef served the traditional way in its copper pot. A beloved institution delivering classic Viennese cuisine at its finest.

Address: Wollzeile 38, 1010 Wien, Austria

Nestled against the Mönchsberg rock face within St. Peter's Abbey, this is reputedly the oldest restaurant in Central Europe, with roots traced to 803 AD. Vaulted baroque halls and a courtyard terrace set the stage for refined Austrian cuisine, regional wines and the Mozart Dinner Concert.

Address: Sankt-Peter-Bezirk 1/4, 5020 Salzburg, Austria

The gourmet restaurant at the 5-star Relais & Châteaux Hotel Tennerhof is one of Kitzbühel's most celebrated dining rooms, ranked among Austria's best for decades. It serves refined Tyrolean and international cuisine in an elegant Alpine setting. Open daily for dinner.

Address: Griesenauweg 26, 6370 Kitzbühel, Austria

Still one of the best restaurants for Bahraini food in Bahrain. Now they have a branch in London and in Abu Dhabi, but of course it's always best to go to where it all started.

Address: Villa Mamas Bahrain, Saar Avenue, Al Markh, Bahrain

A Bahraini restaurant in Muharraq, across the causeway from Manama. I don't have photos because I mostly order from them, but I highly recommend them for breakfast and really love their cheese chapati.

Address: Shop 1, Building 1128, Road 1531, Muharraq, Bahrain

Yakiniku Yazawa's Tokyo branch brings premium Japanese BBQ to Yaesu, five minutes from Tokyo Station. Grill prime wagyu cuts tableside over charcoal in a polished setting - a step up from casual yakiniku. Reservations recommended.

Address: 1-chōme-5-10 1F, Yaesu, Chuo City, Tokyo 103-0028, Japan

Really amazing restaurant that includes a bakery, winery and a wine company. There are some dishes you remember for the rest of your life and the bone marrow at St John's is one of those dishes.

Address: 26 St John St, Barbican, London EC1M 4AY, United Kingdom

A Farringdon institution since 1869, pairing a Grade II-listed Victorian room with original wooden booths and seasonal modern British cooking. Known for confit potatoes, house charcuterie and a thoughtful wine list, with an adjoining shop and wine bar.

Address: 88 Farringdon Rd, London EC1R 3EA, UK

A Georgian townhouse in the heart of Soho serving all-day British comfort food in an elegant, buzzy room - roast chicken, fish pie, steak, a celebrated afternoon tea and a traditional Sunday roast. Boutique bedrooms sit above. However, I mainly go for breakfast and the standout dish here is the lorne sausage and tattie scone.

Address: 69-71 Dean St, London W1D 3SE, UK

A London institution since 1828 and historic home of the English roast carved tableside from silver trolleys. Reopened in March 2026 under Jeremy King, with the grand Grand Divan dining room, lighter Romano's, and Simpson's Bar.

Address: 100 Strand, London WC2R 0EZ, UK

A pub on the green in Broadway. To be honest, you don't really find the best food in the Cotswolds but Swan Inn was good at simple dishes.

Address: 2 The Green, Broadway WR12 7AA, United Kingdom

A village pub in Ebrington, a couple of miles from Chipping Campden. The best meal we had in the Cotswolds. Again simple pub food but done really well.

Address: May Lane, Ebrington, Chipping Campden GL55 6NH, United Kingdom

The all-day restaurant at Gleneagles Townhouse on St Andrew Square, running from breakfast through to evening cocktails. Really beautiful and grand interiors.

Address: 39 St Andrew Square, Edinburgh EH2 2AD, United Kingdom

Difficult to classify, Butchers Diner is a small restaurant or coffee shop or deli. They serve burgers but also various international options. The burger is delicious and the place is quirky and fun so definitely worth a visit.

Address: 10 Bourke St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia

Yummy burger place in Sydney. Great selection of sides and huge milkshakes. I can say this is the best burger I had in Sydney as it was the only one I've had but I'm confident it's amongst the best.

Address: 52 Phillip St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia

Døgnvill Burger is the Best burger in Oslo...actually it's the only burger I've ever had in Oslo so it's the best one I've had at least.

Address: Vulkan 12, 0178 Oslo, Norway

I still don’t really get the hype their burgers are very average. Keeping it on the list because I know it's a must try for many. They have a secret menu so make sure to ask for that.

Address: 333 Jefferson St, San Francisco, CA 94133, United States

A small burger shop on South Anne Street doing Irish beef burgers, fries and shakes, with the beef minced fresh on site each day. Was told this is the best burger in Dublin. It was not mind blowing but a good burger.

Address: 3 Anne Street South, Dublin 2, D02 YR63, Ireland

Yauatcha is probably my favourite place for Dim Sum in London. It's a bit of a modern take on Dim Sum though. It was created in 2004 by Alan Yau, who had established the Wagamama and Busaba Eathai chains. More importantly and closely related he also set up Hakkasan so you'll notice some similar items on the menu but I prefer Yauatcha. Yauatcha achieved a Michelin star in 2005 (although they lost it in 2019). Their crispy aromatic duck is still my favourite in London.

Address: 5-17 Broadwick St, London W1F 0DL, United Kingdom

Chinese restaurant specialising in Cantonese food. Pretty good but not mind blowing. The setting is nice but can be very busy.

Address: 3 Bridge Ln, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia

Probably my favourite restaurant in San Francisco as they have the absolutely most delicious (also largest) dumplings I've had in San Francisco. Really fun place with different seating options. You can sit on the counter alone and watch them cook or you can get a table with friends. They also have a small store with some fun items to browse.

Address: 644 Broadway, San Francisco, CA 94133, United States

Dinner in Oslo is probably the best Chinese restaurant there. If you compare it to other Chinese restaurants in like London for example it would seem average but after days of Norwegian food your perspective will change.

Address: Stortingsgata 22, 0161 Oslo, Norway

A small, much-loved Cantonese spot near King's Cross run by a chef with 30+ years' experience. Specialises in handmade dim sum and in-house roast duck, plus classic noodle and rice dishes at great value. Around 20 seats and walk-in only, so expect a queue - worth it.

Address: 124 King's Cross Rd, London WC1X 9DS, UK

In the heart of Chinatown on Gerrard Street, serving classic Cantonese cuisine from the renowned Royal China Group - celebrated dim sum, fresh seafood and a wide menu of traditional dishes, open daily until late.

Address: 30 Gerrard St, London W1D 6JS, UK

A cosy gyoza specialist near Daikokucho Station, Tsutsumu makes its dough from scratch and serves dumplings pan-fried, boiled and steamed. The handmade gyoza are additive- and garlic-free. Open evenings into the early hours - a relaxed spot over plates of dumplings.

Address: 3-chōme-12-23 Motomachi, Naniwa Ward, Osaka, 556-0016, Japan

A Dotonbori institution with over half a century of history, Gyozaoh! is famous for gyoza nearly twice the usual size. The signature fried gyoza is the star, best hot off the griddle in the buzzing heart of Osaka's nightlife district.

Address: 2-chōme-4-14 Dōtonbori, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0071, Japan

Duck and Rice is this amazing Chinese restaurant in Soho that looks like it's inside a traditional English pub. They do have a pub area and upstairs they have a proper dining area. They are famous for their Duck and I have to say their Crispy aromatic duck is probably one of the best in London. Their signature dish is the duck and rice. Their lobster noodle is also incredible. Make sure you go there hungry as there is a lot to try.

Address: 90 Berwick St, Soho, London W1F 0QB, United Kingdom

A Cantonese restaurant at the Rosewood, also on Al Maryah Island. Nice and casual, with solid quality food.

Address: Rosewood Abu Dhabi, Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

The Cantonese restaurant at the JW Marriott, west of the centre in Từ Liêm. If you get bored of Vietnamese food this was a stellar Cantonese restaurant with great food and a beautiful setting.

Address: 8 Đỗ Đức Dục, Từ Liêm, Hà Nội 100000, Vietnam

A Cantonese restaurant in DIFC. I do not have photos because I mostly order from them and I've only been to the actual restaurant once many years ago. Still, I can't stress enough how this is where you will get the absolute best Cantonese food in Dubai.

Address: The Balcony, Precinct Building 4, DIFC, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

A branch of the international chain, Din Tai Fung serves up delicious dim sum and quickly. Originally from Taiwan where it holds one Michelin star. There are often long queues as they don't take reservations but if you use the WalkIn app it simplifies things.

Address: 5 Henrietta St, Covent Garden, London WC2E 8PT, United Kingdom

A. Wong is a restaurant with an inventive and new take on classic Chinese dishes from across all Chinese regions. It's not your typical Chinese restaurant don't expect your usual favourites although they might have some with a new twist or innovative tweaks. Everything was delicious. You'll have to book ahead as it isn't always easy to find a table.

Address: 70 Wilton Rd, Pimlico, London SW1V 1DE, United Kingdom

The restaurant at Casa San Agustin in the walled city, cooking Colombian food from the Caribbean coast. Beautiful restaurant and bar. We were early so we actually tried both. Great food and cocktails.

Address: Calle 36, Centro Historico, Cartagena, Colombia

Breizh Café has some of the best crepes and galettes you'll have in Paris. Great place to stop for a bite when in the Marais. They also have branches in Japan as well as a Japanese restaurant.

Address: 109 Rue Vieille-du-Temple, 75003 Paris, France

A truffle shop and restaurant in Livade, at the edge of the Motovun forest where Istria's white truffles are found. Truffle runs through the whole menu. They even have truffle flavoured ice cream! I also bought things from the shop on my road trip to Venice — truffle honey, and truffle flavoured crisps. This was my best meal in Istria.

Address: Livade 7, 52427, Livade, Croatia

The restaurant at San Canzian, a restored stone hamlet turned hotel in the hills above Buje. I had the full restaurant experience one night, and a quick meal in the bar on another, and both were excellent. The meal in the restaurant was a bit more special as you have the full luxury-hotel experience, exceptional view and really attentive staff. Also a fantastic wine list. I didn't love the dessert but that's because I'm not very adventurous with dessert but everything else was delicious.

Address: Mužolini Donji 7, 52460, Buje, Croatia

A seafood restaurant on the water at Novigrad, on the Istrian coast. Great food and such a beautiful setting — right on the shore.

Address: Rivarela ul. 19, 52466, Novigrad, Croatia

New york style deli in an old brick building from 1927. The building used to be a Jewish girls school. Their pastrami is absolutely delicious and so are their pickles. Comfy seating but very casual and laid back.

Address: Karl-Marx-Straße 101, 12043 Berlin, Germany

A traditional Egyptian restaurant on 26th of July Corridor in Zamalek. One of the best koshari I've ever had. Really fun place that had an old-timey feel to it.

Address: 157 26th of July Corridor, Zamalek, Cairo 4271050, Egypt

Modern and inventive dishes inspired by traditional European recipes. They only use locally sourced ingredients and their menu changes seasonally. Really charming and cosy place.

Address: Uus 31, 10111 Tallinn, Estonia

Described as Russian inspired modern British the food at Bob Bob Ricard is well prepared and delicious. The place is beautifully designed and they have a button on each table you can press to ask for champagne.

Address: 1 Upper James St, London W1F 9DF, United Kingdom

A grill restaurant on James Street South, in the city centre. Good quality Irish beef in a simple but elegant setting.

Address: 19 James Street South, Belfast BT2 7GA, United Kingdom

Costes Downtown is the more relaxed of the two Costes restaurants in Budapest, tucked into the Prestige Hotel just back from Széchenyi István tér. Still proper fine dining with tasting menus and a chef's table, but a lot less formal than the original over in the ninth district. Everything tastes good. Simple dishes prepared well.

Address: Vigyázó Ferenc u. 5, 1051 Budapest, Hungary

Lovely restaurant for dinner and lunch as well but I love going here for breakfast. They are one of the few places that still serve crumpets and they have some really tasty smoothies.

Address: 45 Jermyn St., Jermyn Street, St. James's, London SW1Y 6DN, United Kingdom

KOLLÁZS is the brasserie and bar inside the Four Seasons at Gresham Palace, right on Széchenyi István tér at the Pest end of the Chain Bridge. Enjoyed my Wiener schnitzel here, and in general the service and food are of the highest quality.

Address: Széchenyi István tér 5-6, 1051 Budapest, Hungary

A modern restaurant down Warehouse Lane, in the Cathedral Quarter. Probably the best restaurant in Belfast overall. I normally am not a fan of innovative tasting menus (in general anywhere where they add foam to dishes is a no for me), but these were not overly complicated and were tasty.

Address: 1 Warehouse Lane, Belfast BT1 2DX, United Kingdom

A neighbourhood restaurant on Church Road in Holywood. Cosy little restaurant a short drive from Belfast with simple dishes that pack a great deal of flavour.

Address: 27a Church Road, Holywood BT18 9BU, United Kingdom

Restaurant Hubert has really delicious and simple French fare. Lovely cosy atmosphere with live music.

Address: 15 Bligh St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia

Beautiful restaurant in the champagne region. Amazing food and a wonderful champagne cart to choose from.

Address: 40 Av. Paul Vaillant-Couturier, 51430 Tinqueux, France

A restaurant on Boulevard Vauban, in Auxerre. This was by far the absolute best meal we had across the entire Burgundy region. Fantastic service, truly scrumptious food and a beautiful setting. I can't recommend this place enough. The funny story is we aren't really sure how we found it. We just woke up one day and mysteriously seemed to have a reservation there, so we rushed over as we were in Chablis at the time and it was a drive to get there. So glad we made it though.

Address: 56 Boulevard Vauban, 89000 Auxerre, France

The very famous Poulet de Bresse (Bresse Chicken) at Le Bistro de L'Hôtel in Beaune. I actually don't eat chicken but I made an exception for it. For those of you who like chicken this is probably the best you're ever going to have. The chicken is local to the region and has an appellation d'origine contrôlée status. These chickens are white and have blue-ish feet which makes them unique.

Address: 3 Rue Samuel Legay, 21200 Beaune, France

Lovely restaurant in the Royal Champagne Hotel & Spa. Beautiful views of the surrounding area.

Address: Le Bellevue Restaurant & Bar, Rue de la République, Champillon, France

A French bistro and bakery at the Kempinski on Sheikh Zayed Road. Great food and a very nice setting (especially when the weather is good).

Address: Kempinski Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Barsha, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Probably the best restaurant in Beaune. Caves Madeleine is a very small restaurant with a seasonal menu that changes daily. They use fresh local ingredients and make modern interpretations of traditional dishes.

Address: 8 Rue du Faubourg Madeleine, 21200 Beaune, France

Great place for comfort food. A little odd, like how they add foie gras to pasta but still enjoyable.

Address: 14 Pl. Myron Herrick, 51100 Reims, France

Delicious fondue in a cosy and casual setting in the middle of Megeve town.

Address: 76 Rue Charles Feige, 74120 Megève, France

The restaurant at the Sofitel Legend Santa Clara in San Diego, where French technique meets ingredients from the Caribbean coast. Another beautiful setting and solid food.

Address: Calle del Torno #39-29, San Diego, Cartagena, Colombia

A French-Vietnamese dining room in the Press Club building on Lý Đạo Thành, built around bridging the two cultures. Solid restaurant with good quality ingredients and great service.

Address: 12 Lý Đạo Thành, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam

In the beautiful Relais & Châteaux hotel Hostellerie de Levernois, Bistro serves slightly less pretentious fare than the gastronomic restaurant La Table de Levernois. I'm sure the latter is also very good, but we wanted something a little less intimidating.

Address: Rue du Golf, 21200 Levernois, France

Warszawski Sen by Mateusz Gessler is a nice French Polish restaurant in a lovely location. It is located in the lovely Hala Koszyki food hall which is a fun place with lots of options to explore.

Address: Warszawski Sen by Mateusz Gessler, Koszykowa, Warsaw, Poland

Lovely place with a nice outdoor area and delicious food.

Address: 18 Rue Jules Rathier, 89800 Chablis, France

Neil Forbes's bistro down a lane off Thistle Street, with a daily-changing menu built on Scottish produce. Very good simple food in a lovely setting.

Address: 34 Thistle Street North West Lane, Edinburgh EH2 1EA, United Kingdom

Nice restaurant with local dishes. The interesting thing is the team doing the cooking are predominantly Asian and have been trained in some of the top French houses. They have the best beef bourguignon (trust me we tried many on this trip and this was our favourite one).

Address: 10 Rue Auxerroise, 89800 Chablis, France

Another great ski break restaurant for some comfort food and beautiful views.

Address: Mont Joux, 74170 Saint-Gervais-les-Bains, France

Unusual fare at Au Fil du Zinc, which serves French food with Japanese influences. Not my thing, but I appreciated the quality of the food and preparation. I think for adventurous foodies this will be a great choice.

Address: 18 Rue des Moulins, 89800 Chablis, France

Really lovely little place in Beaune. The food was good but nothing spectacular. However, they are also wine specialists and have an extensive wine list with options that go as far back as the early 1900s.

Address: Pass. Saint-Hélène, 21200 Beaune, France

Nothing out of the ordinary, but a good well-cooked meal.

Address: 18 Rue Jules Rathier, 89800 Chablis, France

Really great place for Wiener schnitzel and I love how in Germany they serve it with cranberry sauce.

Address: Schweizer Str. 1, 60594 Frankfurt am Main, Germany

Great traditional German cuisine.

Address: Prinzregentenstraße 73, 81675 München, Germany

The flagship tavern of the Ayinger private brewery, directly opposite the Hofbrauhaus in Munich's Old Town. Unpretentious Bavarian cooking done properly: crisp roast pork with dark beer gravy, slow-braised ox cheeks and house-made sausages, matched to Ayinger's own beers. Lively and wood-panelled.

Address: Platzl 1A, 80331 München-Altstadt-Lehel, Germany

Bavarian fine dining inside Munich's oldest mill building, a ducal mill dating to 1573, with a beautiful vaulted ceiling and a quietly elegant room. The kitchen works to the seasons with regional Bavarian ingredients, refining classic dishes without losing their roots. Recognised by the MICHELIN Guide.

Address: Pfisterstraße 4, 80331 München-Altstadt-Lehel, Germany

Munich's oldest wine house, set in vaulted rooms with dark wood and stained glass just off the pedestrian zone. The deep cellar leans on German and Austrian growers, while the kitchen serves refined Bavarian and southern German cooking. An atmospheric, grown-up choice for a long lunch or unhurried dinner.

Address: Herzogspitalstraße 8, 80331 München, Germany

A brasserie on Französische Straße, near Gendarmenmarkt. The standout dish here is the Wiener schnitzel for me. It's a great place that has managed to stay consistently good over the years.

Address: Französische Str. 47, 10117 Berlin, Germany

A restaurant in the courtyard of the Städtisches Kaufhaus in Leipzig, a 1901 building on the site of the city's medieval cloth hall, cooking seasonal food from regional producers. The setting wasn't particularly pleasant — it felt a bit like eating in a museum hallway — but the food was good.

Address: Innenhof Städtisches Kaufhaus, Neumarkt 9, 04109 Leipzig, Germany

Traditional Bavarian restaurant with homemade sausage and pretzels.

Address: Residenzstraße 9, 80333 München, Germany

Delicious seafood dishes. Modern interpretations of traditional Greek cuisine.

Address: Kolokotroni 3-5, Athens, Greece

One of the most highly rated restaurants in Athens, Cookoovaya serves inventive modern Greek dishes. The restaurant was established by five Greek chefs who came together to introduce a new interpretation of Greek food.

Address: Chatzigianni Mexi 2a, Athina 115 28, Greece

Delicious food and a comfy setting can be found at this casual all-day eatery.

Address: Mitropoleos 12, Athina 105 63, Greece

Great modern seafood restaurant run by the famous celebrity chef Argiro Barbarigou.

Address: Fokilidou 15, Athina 106 73, Greece

A Greek restaurant on Rovertou Galli, below the Acropolis. Traditional and very good quality food in a cosy setting.

Address: Rovertou Galli 25, Athina 117 42, Greece

A souvlaki restaurant on Leoforos Metaxa, in Glifada. Nice casual place with really decent souvlaki.

Address: Leof. Dimarchou Aggelou Metaxa 50, Glifada 166 74, Greece

A kebab shop on Mitropoleos, by Monastiraki square. One of those historic and touristy souvlaki places, but it's a must for any visit to Athens.

Address: Mitropoleos 69, Athina 105 55, Greece

A souvlaki shop on Filellinon, near Syntagma. Not a sit-down restaurant, but a really great quality souvlaki on the go.

Address: Filellinon 7, Athina 105 57, Greece

Modern restaurant with a focus on Offal (their horse tartare is their signature dish). The restaurant is modern and lively.

Address: Brzozowa 17, 31-050 Kraków, Poland

The food is average but the view is beautiful.

Address: 75 Hastings St, Noosa Heads QLD 4567, Australia

Jansz. is a beautiful restaurant in the trendy Nine Streets. It's in the lovely Pulitzer hotel which is one of the nicest hotels there. They serve simple classic dishes but done very well.

Address: Reestraat 8, 1016 DN Amsterdam, Netherlands

Carine is still one of my favourite restaurants in Dubai. They have managed to stay consistent with their quality over the years. My favourite dish is the pasta with Lobster.

Address: Carine Restaurant, Emirates Golf Club - Dubai - United Arab Emirates

Bar Central in Stockholm is very striking design wise and the food is not bad either. They open till late which is useful.

Address: Hornsgatan 72, 118 21 Stockholm, Sweden

Tucked inside the tranquil Heiligenkreuzerhof, a 12th-century courtyard hidden in the first district, Buxbaum offers a serene escape from the city bustle. The kitchen blends Austrian classics with internationally inspired seasonal dishes; its courtyard terrace is a treasure on warm days.

Address: Grashofgasse 3 im Heiligenkreuzerhof, 1010 Wien, Austria

A contemporary restaurant on Carrera 9, in Chapinero. Great place for a good meal with some local options. The room is also beautiful and full of light during the day.

Address: Cra. 9 #75-70, Bogotá, Colombia

Ron Gastrobar in Amsterdam is the original of the series of restaurants that he opened and which holds a Michelin star. But it's pretty casual considering. The must have is the Ron's boneless spareribs.

Address: Sophialaan 55, 1075 BP Amsterdam, Netherlands

They serve a wide array of international dishes and a few delicious comfort foods.

Address: Marassi Galleria, Ground Floor, Gate 5, Muharraq, Bahrain

The Cartagena outpost of Harry Sasson, in the Hotel Charleston Santa Teresa in the walled city. I feel you can't go wrong with Harry's Sasson and everything we had was good. The setting is also lovely.

Address: Cra. 3 #31-19, El Centro, Cartagena, Colombia

Mickael Viljanen's restaurant on Parnell Square North, carrying on Chapter One's long-standing name. Probably the best restaurant in Dublin.

Address: 18-19 Parnell Square North, Rotunda, Dublin 1, D01 T3V8, Ireland

Roberta Hall-McCarron's all-day cafe, bar and bottle shop on Bonnington Road in Leith, from the team behind The Little Chartroom. My favourite meal in Edinburgh. Really enjoyed the food, especially the mussels.

Address: 10-12 Bonnington Road, Edinburgh EH6 5JD, United Kingdom

The Dubai restaurant from the South African tashas group, at Jumeirah Al Naseem, open from lunch through to dinner and cocktails. Dependable and good in quality, Flamingo room always delivers a great dinner out.

Address: Jumeirah Al Naseem, Madinat Jumeirah, Jumeirah St, Umm Suqeim 3, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Solemann Haddad's fifteen-seat chef's table on the roof of Eden House in Satwa, serving a twelve-course menu he calls Dubai cuisine - Middle Eastern ingredients, Japanese technique. Really lovely experience and inventive dishes. Typically I don't go for these kinds of overly sophisticated dishes but I really enjoyed these.

Address: Eden House, 41st St, Al Satwa, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

This is one of my favourite restaurants in London so I can't recommend it enough. The menu changes periodically but everything is good. It's North African inspired Israeli food. It's a small place so better book in advance but I find if you're on your own they can usually squeeze you in for an early lunch.

Address: 16 Neal's Yard, Seven Dials, London WC2H 9DP, United Kingdom

Modern Israeli food with influences from across the middle east. Truly delicious and inventive dishes. The menu changes seasonally.

Address: 34 Rupert St, London W1D 6DN, United Kingdom

Nopi Soho is a great Mediterranean/Israeli restaurant and is a sister restaurant of the famous Ottolenghi. I especially like their breakfast but all their food is delicious.

Address: 21-22 Warwick St, West End, London W1B 5NE, United Kingdom

Probably the best pasta you'll have in London. They make the pasta fresh every day and use seasonal ingredients so the menu does change often. Unfortunately, they do not take reservations so you'll have to queue for around 30 minutes at least but it's worth it.

Address: 6 Southwark St, London SE1 1TQ, United Kingdom

The best Italian restaurant in Dubai in my opinion. Don't miss the Pappardelle al Ragout di Vitello con Tartufo Nero (Pappardelle pasta with veal ragu and black truffle) and spaghetti with crab. Very nice atmosphere especially when the weather is good and they open up the terrace. They closed for renovations this year but are back!

Address: Scalini Italian Restaurant - Dubai - United Arab Emirates

Nice little Italian restaurant on Little Bourke St with pan European influences. Also famous for their bread.

Address: 367 Little Bourke St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia

Really great simple traditional Italian dishes.

Address: 12-16 Challis Ave, Potts Point NSW 2011, Australia

The best Italian food I had in San Francisco was at Delfina. Simple dishes with great ingredients and cooked exceptionally well.

Address: 3621 18th St, San Francisco, CA 94110, United States

Delicious Italian food in a really lovely setting.

Address: Limmatquai 82, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland

Still my favourite restaurant in Bahrain despite the chef leaving. Great for brunch as well. They have great pastas – the pumpkin ravioli is better than any I've had in Italy and I particularly love their veal Milanese.

Address: Masso Restaurant, Manama, Bahrain

My favourite restaurant in Rome. Delicious traditional dishes with beautiful outside seating.

Address: Largo Febo, 12, 00186 Roma, RM, Italy

A Michelin-starred modern Italian in Clerkenwell, opened in 2016 by the team behind The Clove Club. It celebrates British produce cooked with Italian sensibility - house-made pasta and seasonal dishes - in a handsome dining room with a marble-topped bar and conservatory. The menu changes often so check ahead of booking but I've always enjoyed the food here so you can't really go wrong.

Address: 88 St John St, London EC1M 4EH, UK

Established in 1945, one of London's oldest Italian restaurants - refined, traditional cooking in an elegant setting on Jermyn Street. An all-day menu from breakfast to dinner with homemade bread, fresh pasta, fish and meat.

Address: 61 Jermyn St, London SW1Y 6LX, UK

An Italian restaurant on Via della Spiga, in the fashion district. I've been to Il Baretto twice now and both times the food was excellent. The atmosphere is also very pleasant and they have outside seating when the weather is good.

Address: Via della Spiga, 26, 20121 Milano MI, Italy

A trattoria on the seafront at Marina Grande, in Sorrento. This was the best meal I had on the Amalfi Coast and yet it was the simplest place. Excellent food, generous portions and a beautiful view.

Address: Via Marina Grande, 62, 80067 Sorrento NA, Italy

Up at San Vigilio, on the hill above the old town. Beautiful restaurant overlooking the city. Delicious food made with local ingredients.

Address: Via al Castello, 1, 24100 Bergamo BG, Italy

A salumeria and trattoria on Via Trento, in the same family since 1875. Everything I had here was perfect. It was such a good meal overall that I would definitely go again and again. The casoncelli and culatello di Zibello were exceptional.

Address: Via Trento, 52, 25128 Brescia BS, Italy

An osteria on Piazza Alessandro Gallina, a few streets from the Duomo. I had a really good meal here but in terms of ambiance I think it really matters which room they put you in so make sure to ask (unlike me).

Address: Piazza Alessandro Gallina 1, 26100 Cremona, Italy

The restaurant at Hotel Tyrol in Selva di Val Gardena, where Alessandro Martellini cooks. Suinsom is Ladin for "at the top". This might be my favourite restaurant in the Dolomites. Really delicious food and a fantastic wine list.

Address: Streda Puez, 12, 39048 Selva di Val Gardena BZ, Italy

A modern Italian restaurant in a traditional house on Nguyễn Thái Học, in the ancient town. If you get bored of Vietnamese food or need a change this was a decent Italian in an upscale setting.

Address: 96 Nguyễn Thái Học, Hội An, Vietnam

A trattoria on Via Sant'Abbondio in Azzano, on the hillside above Tremezzina. Lovely traditional Trattoria which boasts fresh local ingredients in all their dishes.

Address: Via Sant'Abbondio, 8, 22016 Azzano CO, Italy

A long-established restaurant on Via XXIV Maggio in Gargnano, with an intimate dining room, a deep wine list and lake fish on the menu. This is a family-owned restaurant but with the feel of a very upscale fine dining establishment. The dining room is beautifully done with interesting art work on the walls. The food is of the highest quality especially the pasta.

Address: Via XXIV Maggio, 5, 25084 Gargnano BS, Italy

Small restaurant in Covent Garden with bar seating as well as a few tables (not many). They specialise in pasta and have the famous instagrammable Silk handkerchiefs pasta with walnut butter & confit egg yolk. However, I personally don't find this dish filling so I usually go for the meatier options. It's also a comfortable place to dine alone.

Address: 39 William IV St, Charing Cross, London WC2N 4DD, United Kingdom

The place is really cosy but a little overly packed. Great food and an extensive wine list. Dishes change periodically with the seasons.

Address: 10 William St, William Street, Paddington NSW 2021, Australia

Dilia is a very cosy little innovative Italian restaurant. They serve inventive takes on traditional Italian dishes. If you want to try something different but still want to get your pasta fix then Dilia would be a good one to try when in Paris.

Address: 1 Rue d'Eupatoria, 75020 Paris, France

SPQR is an Italian restaurant with one Michelin star. They serve tasting menus made with locally sourced ingredients. The pasta set menu is especially delicious. Great wine list as well.

Address: 1911 Fillmore St, San Francisco, CA 94115, United States

Really delicious traditional Italian food in a classic setting.

Address: Piazza Nicosia, 24, 00186 Roma, RM, Italy

A wine bar and kitchen in Dorsoduro run by two brothers. Their tiramisu was the absolute best one I had that trip. The pasta was also very good.

Address: Sestiere Dorsoduro, 3778, 30123 Venezia VE, Italy

A small Italian restaurant on Via Ariberto, off Corso Genova. I've been to Rovello even before they moved locations and I've never had a bad meal there. Really delicious but simple (not overcomplicated) dishes and the staff are super friendly.

Address: Via Ariberto, 3, 20123 Milano MI, Italy

A Tuscan restaurant in the Antinori family's palazzo, off Via de' Tornabuoni. A really beautiful restaurant with excellent quality food.

Address: Piazza degli Antinori, 3, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy

A restaurant in St Anne's Square, in the Cathedral Quarter. A solid choice for Italian food in Belfast.

Address: St Anne's Square, 11 Edward Street, Belfast BT1 2LR, United Kingdom

A pasta restaurant on West Madison Street, with its own pastificio — an open workshop making the pasta fresh through the day. Good American-style Italian food.

Address: 1020 W Madison St, Chicago, IL 60607, United States

Norbert Niederkofler's mountain restaurant at the top of Kronplatz, at 2,275 metres, in a dining room designed by Martino Gamper. You can either hike up to this place or take the cable car (which is what we did). Once up there you have an amazing view and a great meal so it's totally worth it. You'll notice that pasta with mushrooms is a typical dish in the Dolomites and this one was particularly good.

Address: Kronplatz, 39030 Marebbe BZ, Italy

A restaurant high above Cernobbio on Via della Libertà, with a terrace looking down the lake. A favourite of George Clooney's for good reason. Great food and a spectacular view.

Address: Via della Libertà, 69, 22012 Cernobbio CO, Italy

The restaurant of the Grand Hotel Fasano in Gardone Riviera, where Maurizio Bufi cooks contemporary Italian food with nods to his native Puglia, on a terrace above the lake. I did the set menu with the wine pairing. Was a fantastic experience and I especially loved the agnolotti (I wished I had a huge bowl of it to be honest). For a filling meal I'd skip the set menu next time and just order a big plate of the agnolotti.

Address: Corso Giuseppe Zanardelli, 190, 25083 Gardone Riviera BS, Italy

Great restaurant that came highly recommended to me by locals. The only issue is it was a bit far from the centre of town and when I'm in Rome I like to stay on foot most of the time. But it's worth the cab ride as the setting is lovely and food is great.

Address: Via di Monte Testaccio, 97, 00153 Roma, RM, Italy

The Cipriani family's quieter place on Giudecca, looking back across the water. It was definitely a beautiful view (despite some stormy weather that day) but it lacks the charm of Harry's Bar. Now I know some people may say Harry's restaurants in Venice are overpriced. That may be true, but the food is delicious and that's what I prioritise.

Address: Fondamenta S. Biagio, 773, 30133 Venezia VE, Italy

A working agriturismo above Madonna di Campiglio, in the Brenta Dolomites inside the Adamello Brenta nature park. This was a lovely little place with really good food. They also had this bacon sprinkle for the pasta that I wish I could have bought a ton of and brought home.

Address: Località Fogajard, 36, 38086 Madonna di Campiglio TN, Italy

A seafood restaurant on Crow Street in Temple Bar. Decent Italian restaurant.

Address: 7 Crow Street, Temple Bar, Dublin, D02 YT38, Ireland

The restaurant at the Il Sereno hotel in Torno, on the water at Via Torrazza. Beautiful hotel, restaurant and view. Had a really lovely meal here overlooking the lake.

Address: Via Torrazza, 10, 22020 Torno CO, Italy

An early twentieth-century villa on the Gardone Riviera lakefront, its dining room set in wooded grounds that run out onto a pontoon over the water. Interestingly, this villa belonged to Mussolini's mistress and they used to meet here for their trysts. The food is very good but leans more inventive than traditional.

Address: Corso Giuseppe Zanardelli, 150, 25083 Gardone Riviera BS, Italy

Lovely family owned restaurant with traditional Roman dishes.

Address: Via dell'Arancio, 50, 00186 Roma, RM, Italy

The grill at Aman Rosa Alpina in San Cassiano, with a terrace looking out at the Dolomites and a wine list running into the thousands. They fire fresh pizzas at dinner too. Really a top-tier restaurant in terms of the quality of their ingredients.

Address: Strada Micurà de Rü, 20, 39036 San Cassiano BZ, Italy

A grill house on Via Luigi Cadorna in Como, cooking over an open wood fire, with a glass-fronted ageing room for its beef. Cosy little Trattoria with solid, simple and satisfying dishes.

Address: Via Luigi Cadorna, 26, 22100 Como CO, Italy

An osteria in an eighteenth-century building in the upper part of Gardone Riviera, near the Vittoriale, with a small courtyard for summer tables. Great quality food that is simple and filling. The setting is also pleasant.

Address: Via Carere, 10, 25083 Gardone Riviera BS, Italy

Bocca di Lupo is very difficult to book so you need to really book in advance or try your luck if you're on your own late in the evening to secure a spot on the counter. Amazing food and you can get ice cream from Gelupo across the street. When in season you can also pop over to Gelupo to buy some truffle to add to your pasta.

Address: 12 Archer St, Soho, London W1D 7BB, United Kingdom

The Venetian institution's Bahrain outpost, on the water at Marassi north-east of Manama. Fantastic service and great quality food.

Address: Building 770, Road 6407, Block 264, Marassi Al Bahrain, Bahrain

Franz Castlunger's kitchen at the Hotel Armentarola in San Cassiano, working with produce from the Ladin valley farms. Two dining rooms, a stube and a terrace. One of the best meals I had in the Dolomites. The chocolate gelato was the best I have had by far across the Dolomites and still one of the best I've ever had.

Address: Prè de Vì, 12, 39036 San Cassiano BZ, Italy

The Istanbul branch of the Milanese Italian restaurant, on Ahmet Adnan Saygun Caddesi in Etiler. If you want a break from Turkish food this is a great place for a decent Italian meal.

Address: Ahmet Adnan Saygun Cd., Etiler, 34340 Beşiktaş, İstanbul, Turkey

A pizzeria on Salita Cernaia, one of the stepped lanes in the old centre of Bellagio. While Bellagio is chaotic this felt like a nice little escape from the crowds. The pizza was delicious.

Address: Salita Cernaia, 14, 22021 Bellagio CO, Italy

An osteria on Via Bastione in Riva del Garda, at the northern tip of the lake, serving Garda sardines, chub meatballs and carne salada. Hearty local dishes and a good wine list.

Address: Via Bastione, 1, 38066 Riva del Garda TN, Italy

A Tuscan cellar restaurant on Via del Trebbio, known for bistecca. Famous for its interior design which was pretty cool they also have some great Florentine dishes.

Address: Via del Trebbio, 1r, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy

Norbert Niederkofler's restaurant in a historic manor house in the Anterselva valley, at Rasun di Sopra. You can tell the ingredients are super fresh and local. Everything tasted great here and the setting was very cosy.

Address: Via Valle d'Anterselva, 24, 39030 Rasun-Anterselva BZ, Italy

A fish restaurant on Via Armando Diaz in Como, opened by three sisters from Sardinia, with fregola and bottarga alongside the Italian classics. Modern Italian dishes that are tasty and not complicated.

Address: Via Armando Diaz, 40, 22100 Como CO, Italy

The same geniuses that brought us Padella have a proper sit down and reservation accepting place. More limited in terms of pasta options but everything is delicious and it's a nice cosy atmosphere.

Address: 300-302 St Paul's Rd, London N1 2LH, UK

The bar where the Bellini and beef carpaccio were invented, just off Piazza San Marco. Small, plain inside, and priced for its history. Still my absolute favourite beef carpaccio. They also have surprisingly tasty little sandwiches.

Address: Calle Vallaresso, 1323, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy

A long-standing Florentine restaurant on Via Panzani, near the station. Still the best seabass I've ever had.

Address: Via Panzani, 9/A, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy

The Mussner family's chalet restaurant up at Plan de Gralba, above Selva di Val Gardena. Great casual restaurant with local specialties. Although, I went for the Wiener schnitzel as it's one of my favourite dishes.

Address: Str. Plan de Gralba, 37, 39048 Selva di Val Gardena BZ, Italy

Good food and a cosy setting.

Address: 33 Saint James's Street, London, UK

A long-standing Florentine trattoria on Borgo San Iacopo, in the Oltrarno. My favourite restaurant in Florence. Simple, hearty and traditional dishes done exceptionally well. Also, they have fantastic gelato. One of the best chocolate gelato I have ever had.

Address: Borgo San Iacopo, 57/r, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy

The restaurant at Hotel Badia Hill in Badia, cooking to a "Dolomites to Sea" idea – alpine produce with things brought up from the coast. They make the tiramisu at your table and it's very good. Best dish was the agnolotti. The outside seating is lovely and they usually have a bonfire going when it's a cold night.

Address: Str. Damez, 2A, 39036 Badia BZ, Italy

An osteria on Via XX Settembre in Varenna, on the eastern shore, in an old lakeside warehouse converted in 2007 and run by Chef Giuseppe and his family. Great traditional Osteria with delicious pasta.

Address: Via XX Settembre, 20, 23829 Varenna LC, Italy

An Italian restaurant on Rua do Olival in Lapa, opened in 1999 by Tanka Sapkota and known for its truffle dishes. Solid Italian fare in a cosy setting.

Address: R. do Olival 258, 1200-744 Lisboa, Portugal

Gloria is more on the comfort food side with very hearty pasta dishes and delicious pizzas. They have the famously instagrammed ribbon pasta with truffles (which is delicious but heavy). The setting is eclectic and fun but not the most comfortable place to go alone. Great for Sunday brunches with friends. Part of the Big Mama group so if you want to try something similar you can go to Circolo Popolare in Fitzrovia which is more central but doesn't take reservations.

Address: 54-56 Great Eastern St, Hackney, London EC2A 3QR, United Kingdom

A mountain restaurant in Corvara cooking to the seasons, with a Ladin streak running through it. Delicious local dishes and a very charming setting.

Address: Str. Pé de Corvara, 10, 39033 Corvara in Badia BZ, Italy

A seasonal Florentine kitchen on Piazza dei Nerli in San Frediano, part restaurant and part salotto, with local craftwork on show. More modern than a typical trattoria but it was good and the restaurant is pleasantly designed.

Address: Piazza dei Nerli, 8r/10r, 50124 Florence FI, Italy

The gourmet restaurant at Hotel La Perla in Corvara, set in a stüa – the wood-panelled parlour of an old Ladin house. Another cosy chalet style place. Delicious food and a menu with a lot of traditional local dishes worth trying.

Address: Str. Col Alt, 105, 39033 Corvara in Badia BZ, Italy

Another Venetian restaurant. You might not think of trying it because it's in Victoria, and frankly I hardly think of Victoria as an area filled with great restaurants. Still, Tozi has great food in small sharing plates so it's great to go with friends or colleagues. Sadly I was too busy eating and forgot to take photos. If you have photos you'd like to share please reach out.

Address: 8 Gillingham St, Pimlico, London SW1V 1HJ, United Kingdom

A traditional wirtshaus – a Tyrolean inn – in the middle of Bolzano, doing the South Tyrolean classics. Bolzano feels like it could be a town in Austria (well once upon a time it was) and so I had to have a Wiener schnitzel of course.

Address: Via Goethe, 3, 39100 Bolzano BZ, Italy

A Tuscan bistro beside the turtle lagoon at Jumeirah Al Naseem, with a menu built on produce from the Il Borro estate's own biodynamic farm. Great quality Italian fare in a lovely setting.

Address: Jumeirah Al Naseem, 906 Jumeirah St, Umm Suqeim 3, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

A country restaurant up at Rignana in the Chianti hills, about 23 km south of Florence. Fresh ingredients complement simple traditional dishes.

Address: Via Rignana, 13, 50022 Greve in Chianti FI, Italy

The restaurant at the Schgaguler, a design hotel in Castelrotto. At night it's a nouvelle cuisine style restaurant but if you go at lunch time you can enjoy simpler and heartier dishes.

Address: Via Dolomiti, 2, 39040 Castelrotto BZ, Italy

The Milanese Da Giacomo brought to the hills above Florence, at the Hotel Il Salviatino. The same great food you can get at da Giacomo in Milan but with a fantastic view of Florence.

Address: Via del Salviatino, 21, 50137 Florence FI, Italy

An Italian restaurant on Piazza Santo Stefano. This was a really lovely discovery for me. I was in Milan during Design Week, so it was really difficult to find reservations in my usual places, which led me to Ciciarà. It's especially nice for solo dining as they have a counter. They change their menu seasonally but I'm sure they will always have something delicious to try each time. I had the pasta with lamb and it was perfect.

Address: Piazza Santo Stefano, 8, 20122 Milano MI, Italy

The restaurant at Hotel Turm on the church square at Fiè allo Sciliar, where Stefan Pramstrahler cooks. Beautiful setting with a view of the mountains. The pasta was very good.

Address: Piazza della Chiesa, 9, 39050 Fié allo Sciliar BZ, Italy

A Tuscan osteria on Via del Moro, a few streets from Santa Maria Novella. Great food and a cosy atmosphere.

Address: Via del Moro, 22r, 50123 Florence FI, Italy

Max Alajmo's mountain cooking above Cortina d'Ampezzo, with Bar Alfredo alongside for an aperitivo. Really beautiful place with a balcony where you can eat while enjoying the view.

Address: Località Ronco, 123, 32043 Cortina d'Ampezzo BL, Italy

The Pizzini family's restaurant at Giustino, 13 km down the valley from Madonna di Campiglio. They have been at it more than 50 years. Great quality dishes made with local ingredients.

Address: Via Antonio Rosmini, 7, 38086 Giustino TN, Italy

The open-fire grill at COMO Alpina Dolomites, up on the Alpe di Siusi. Nice casual place for dinner. They have both pasta and pizza.

Address: Compatsch, 62/3, 39040 Alpe di Siusi BZ, Italy

Giovanni Balice's kitchen at the Bio Hotel Hermitage, an organic hotel 1.5 km outside Madonna di Campiglio, facing the Brenta Dolomites. Beautiful restaurant with a lovely view and delicious food.

Address: Via Castelletto Inferiore 69, 38086 Madonna di Campiglio TN, Italy

A restaurant and delicatessen in a courtyard off Via Montenapoleone, open since 1957. I was a bit hesitant to add this one as I've been here twice: once I had a fantastic meal, but the second time it was underwhelming and the service was terrible. In the end I decided to add it as the setting is really lovely, and when you do get good food and service it's excellent. You might also notice that it made an appearance in The Devil Wears Prada 2.

Address: Via Santo Spirito, 10, 20121 Milano MI, Italy

The courtyard restaurant and bar at the Mandarin Oriental, off Via Andegari. I know it might not seem like an exciting suggestion because it's the all-day restaurant in a hotel, but their food is exceptional. Especially worth trying is the pasta with a simple tomato sauce — the most delicious one I have ever had. They also have an excellent veal Milanese.

Address: Via Andegari, 9, 20121 Milano MI, Italy

A pasta restaurant in Porta Romana. Very simple, with excellent pasta that is perfectly cooked.

Address: Via Bernardino Corio, 8, 20135 Milano MI, Italy

Great Japanese restaurant with both traditional and modern options.

Address: Albert Cuypstraat 2-6, 1072 CT Amsterdam, Netherlands

Engawa is my favourite Japanese restaurant in London. It's tucked inside Ham Yard in Soho (a little oasis inside Soho) and part of the Ham Yard Hotel. A small restaurant with traditional Japanese food and specialising in Wagyu beef. I cannot express in words just how delicious the Wagyu beef is here it's something truly incredible. It's also incredibly expensive but worth it

Address: 2 Ham Yard, London W1D 7LT, United Kingdom

Alex Sushi in Oslo has delicious sushi and really fresh fish especially since a big salmon producer is also an investor in the restaurant (Nova Sea). It has been around since 2001 and is one of Norway's oldest sushi restaurants. It's a must if you're in Oslo (make sure to book ahead).

Address: Cort Adelers gate 2, 0254 Oslo, Norway

Nice little Japanese sushi place with very high quality fish. Probably the best Japanese restaurant I've tried so far in San Francisco. Limited dessert options (one per day and it changes).

Address: 430 Folsom St, San Francisco, CA 94108, United States

Authentic Japanese restaurant just off Oxford Street, founded in Mayfair in 2002. An izakaya-style experience with a sushi counter, fresh sashimi, robata-grilled dishes and an extensive sake list, in a bright, spacious dining room. Really good quality food and nice variety of options.

Address: 22-23 Woodstock St, London W1C 2AR, UK

Award-winning ramen specialists; the Covent Garden branch serves rich, slow-cooked tonkotsu with house-made noodles and deeply flavoured pork-bone broth. A compact, buzzy spot near St Giles for authentic bowls and Japanese sides.

Address: 64 St Giles High St, London WC2H 8LE, UK

AFURI's Harajuku original is the birthplace of its famous yuzu ramen - a clear, citrus-bright chicken-and-dashi broth topped with charcoal-grilled chashu. Light, refreshing and approachable, with an English menu and cashless ordering.

Address: 3-chōme-63-1 1F, Sendagaya, Shibuya, Tokyo 151-0051, Japan

Ryan is a sleek, modern soba house about five minutes' walk from Shibuya Station. Hand-made buckwheat noodles take centre stage, served cold or hot alongside tempura and seasonal small plates, with a thoughtful sake list.

Address: 1-chōme-4-13 1F, Shibuya, Tokyo 150-0002, Japan

Sobagoya is a relaxed soba izakaya in Azabu-Juban, about four minutes from the station. Pair house buckwheat noodles with grilled dishes, small plates and a good drink selection - an easygoing neighbourhood spot for lunch or a longer evening over sake.

Address: 2-chōme-5-1 3F, Azabujūban, Minato City, Tokyo 106-0045, Japan

Keyakizaka is the teppanyaki room at the Grand Hyatt Tokyo in Roppongi Hills, where chefs grill premium wagyu, seafood and seasonal vegetables to order at the counter. Polished, theatrical and luxurious - a refined choice for a special dinner.

Address: Keyakizaka, Grand Hyatt Tokyo 4F, 6-10-3 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo 106-0032, Japan

GO is the teppanyaki counter at the Palace Hotel Tokyo in Marunouchi, with views over the Imperial Palace gardens. Watch chefs sear top-grade wagyu, lobster and seasonal produce on the iron griddle in an elegant, calm room.

Address: Teppanyaki GO, Palace Hotel Tokyo 6F, 1-1-1 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 100-0005, Japan

Roku Roku is the Edomae sushi restaurant on the 6th floor of the Grand Hyatt Tokyo in Roppongi Hills. A light-filled space with a 14-seat sushi counter and terrace, it pairs classic Edo-style nigiri with a strong sake selection.

Address: Roku Roku, Grand Hyatt Tokyo 6F, 6-10-3 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo 106-0032, Japan

Nishiazabu Sushi Shin is a Michelin-starred Edomae sushi destination, among the first sushi restaurants in Japan to earn a Michelin star. Expect an intimate counter and a meticulous omakase of seasonal nigiri. Reservations essential.

Address: 4-chōme-18-20 Nishiazabu, Minato City, Tokyo 106-0031, Japan

A Michelin Bib Gourmand okonomiyaki landmark in the retro Shin-Umeda Shokudogai food alley beside Osaka Station. Kiji's savoury griddled pancakes have drawn devoted crowds for years, and the no-reservations counter is part of the charm. Closed Sundays; expect a queue.

Address: Umeda Sky Building B1F, 1-1-90 Ōyodonaka, Kita Ward, Osaka 531-0076, Japan

A late-night Kitashinchi favourite specialising in kasu udon, the Osaka classic topped with crispy fried beef offal (aburakasu) for deep, rich flavour. Open from evening through the early morning - perfect to round off a night out. Closed Sundays.

Address: 1-chōme-7-6 1F, Sonezakishinchi, Kita Ward, Osaka, 530-0002, Japan

Osaka's most talked-about giant onigiri shop, where rice balls roughly twice the convenience-store size are pressed to order with premium Niigata Koshihikari rice and over 1,500 possible fillings. A minute from Nakazaki-cho Station; opens early and closes when the rice runs out.

Address: 1-chōme-5-20 1F, Nakazaki, Kita Ward, Osaka, 530-0016, Japan

On the 40th floor of Conrad Osaka, KURA pairs theatrical teppanyaki with an elegant sushi counter and sweeping skyline views over Nakanoshima. Premium wagyu, fresh seafood and seasonal ingredients are prepared before you - a polished special-occasion choice.

Address: KURA, Conrad Osaka 40F, 3-2-4 Nakanoshima, Kita Ward, Osaka 530-0005, Japan

A three-Michelin-star kaiseki institution near Nanzen-ji, Hyotei traces its roots back some 400 years to a teahouse for temple pilgrims. Refined seasonal courses showcase the legendary Hyotei soft-boiled egg. A serene setting for one of Kyoto's most acclaimed meals.

Address: 35 Nanzenji Kusakawachō, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 606-8437, Japan

A prestigious Japanese restaurant inside The Shilla Seoul, Ariake serves light, stylish Kansai-style cuisine and omakase. Expect pristine sashimi, creative sushi and signatures like broiled lobster with sea urchin, paired with premium sake.

Address: Ariake, The Shilla Seoul, 249 Dongho-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul 04605, South Korea

Great place with traditional sushi and sashimi along with some more modern interpretations. Very casual and cosy so great for a meal without any fuss.

Address: 5 Middlesex St, Spitalfields, London E1 7AA, United Kingdom

A Japanese cocktail bar and restaurant on West Lake Street. Great cocktails but also the food is great so it can definitely be a dinner spot too.

Address: 630 W Lake St, Chicago, IL 60661, United States

There are several branches but the one I've been to the most frequently is the Knightsbridge branch but I'm sure they are all really good. This is a very traditional Japanese restaurant with great sushi and sashimi. They also serve up Makis as I know that is something people comb through menus to make sure of.

Address: 31 Beauchamp Pl, Chelsea, London SW3 1NU, United Kingdom

Another inventive and modern Japanese restaurant serving izakaya style dishes. Their menu is ever evolving and everything is delicious. It's upscale and a little dressy.

Address: 22 Harcourt St, Marylebone, London W1H 4HH, United Kingdom

A Japanese restaurant at the Four Seasons in Jumeirah, styled after 1920s Osaka. Great quality sushi and delicious cocktails. I like the design and decor which makes for a lovely setting.

Address: Four Seasons Resort, 23A St, Jumeirah, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

A Japanese deli and dining room on Via Amedei. I know it might seem odd to go to a Japanese restaurant when visiting Milan, so definitely prioritise Italian cuisine when you're there, but if you want something different or a break from Italian food Gastronomia Yamamoto is a great option. They are a traditional Japanese restaurant with a great menu that changes seasonally, but the main draw for us is the onigiri.

Address: Via Amedei, 5, 20123 Milano MI, Italy

A small Japanese place on Al Wasl Road in Jumeirah. A really cute little restaurant with excellent quality sushi and great service. Note: they do not serve alcohol.

Address: 32c Al Wasl Road, Jumeirah 1, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

A small sushi counter at the Bulgari Resort on Jumeirah Bay Island. This is one of my absolute favourite restaurants in Dubai. If it wasn't so expensive I'd definitely go all the time. Excellent quality Omakase experience with ingredients and chefs from Japan.

Address: Bulgari Resort, Jumeirah Bay Island, Jumeirah 2, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

A Japanese/Korean restaurant and lounge in Adliya, with Peruvian influences. Hands down the best Japanese in Bahrain. Lately I feel they have especially upped their game and the quality is really unparalleled amongst Japanese restaurants in Bahrain. Standout dish for me is their beef bibimbap.

Address: House 1, Road 3803, Block 338, Adliya, Manama, Bahrain

A Japanese-leaning restaurant on the Jumeirah Fishing Harbour, open since 2016. Walk-ins only, they take no bookings. On the whole 3Fils is a really great restaurant with delicious food that goes beyond Japanese only dishes. You can tell the ingredients are of the highest quality and that they put a lot of care into what they cook. I wouldn't go for the makis though and focus on the nigiris where you can really appreciate the quality of the fish. Note: they do not serve alcohol.

Address: Shop 02, Jumeirah Fishing Harbour, Al Urouba St, Jumeirah 1, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

A ramen shop at Platinum Tower, in Seef. Truly satisfying ramen, especially the Wagyu one in my opinion. They also have tasty appetisers and desserts.

Address: Platinum Tower, Road 2802, Seef, Bahrain

A Jordanian restaurant on Rainbow Street, in Jabal Amman. Really delicious food — it almost felt home-cooked.

Address: Rainbow Street 26, Jabal Amman, Amman, Jordan

A beloved Seoul institution for haejang-guk (hangover soup), Jungang Haejang is famed for its hearty yangseonji (ox blood) soup and gopchang jeongol tripe hot pot. The Gangnam main store is so popular it inspired a convenience-store ramen and a Hong Kong branch.

Address: 17 Yeongdong-daero 86-gil, Daechi-dong, Gangnam District, Seoul, South Korea

A revered Gangnam Korean BBQ specialist, Myeong-In Deungsim is prized for premium hanwoo (Korean native beef) - especially its beautifully marbled deungsim (sirloin), expertly grilled at your table. Attentive service and top-grade cuts make it a standout for a proper Korean barbecue feast in Seoul.

Address: Dosan-daero 211, Gangnam District, Seoul, South Korea (2F)

Named for a Silla princess, Yoseokgung 1779 is Gyeongju's most storied traditional restaurant - a royal-cuisine (hanjeongsik) institution run by the Choi family for generations in a historic hanok in Gyochon village. Elaborate multi-course menus of refined Korean dishes make it a special-occasion experience. Closed Tuesdays.

Address: 19-4 Gyochonan-gil, Gyeongju, Gyeongsangbuk-do, South Korea

A restaurant on Taha Hussein Street, in Jabal Amman. The best Lebanese food I've ever had and the best kibbeh nayah ever (please note I've never been to Lebanon).

Address: Taha Hussein Street, Jabal Amman, Amman, Jordan

The Beirut group's all-day Lebanese cafe in Downtown Dubai, near the Burj Khalifa. Hands down the best Lebanese restaurant in Dubai. I do miss how it was before the fire but the food is still excellent. You also have the option of the more casual Em Sherif Deli which is also great.

Address: Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd, Downtown Dubai, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Just take my word for it this is the best place for a burrito in San Francisco. It is not a classy place though and you'll probably have to queue if you go around lunch or dinner time.

Address: 2889 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94110, United States

Absolutely delicious food at this branch of Temper. I especially love the cheeseburger tacos. Sitting downstairs can get a bit stuffy though and you might end up smelling like the food you're eating but it's worth it.

Address: 25 Broadwick St, London W1F 0DS, United Kingdom

A nice casual place with delicious Mexican food.

Address: 306 Broderick St, San Francisco, CA 94117, United States

Richard Sandoval's modern Mexican rooftop at Le Royal Meridien in Dubai Marina. The best Mexican restaurant in Dubai (in my opinion). Great cocktails, lovely outdoor seating when the weather is good and delicious Mexican fare.

Address: Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort & Spa, Al Mamsha St, Dubai Marina, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

A Mexican place on El Salvador in Palermo Soho. Tasty Mexican fare in a lovely area. It's the perfect place for a quick shopping break.

Address: El Salvador 4800, C1414 Buenos Aires, Argentina

This is the best meal I've ever had in Norway. The restaurant was very dimly lit so photos aren't great. However, everything was delicious. If you are going to go see the midnight sun in Tromso don't miss out on this place as it really made the trip worth it for me. They try to incorporate local ingredients such as moose and deer, as well as, local cheese into their dishes. The dishes are inventive and fun but also very tasty. I would recommend going with the wine pairing.

Address: Stakkevollvegen 39, 9010 Tromsø, Norway

Seasonal menu which changes periodically but they serve inventive dishes made with local ingredients. The place is simple and Scandinavian in design.

Address: Mathallen, Grønnegata, Tromsø, Norway

Probably my favourite meal in Melbourne and it was actually my first as well. Really funky looking place with great service. Everything was delicious especially the duck.

Address: 180 Flinders Ln, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia

Really amazing place with inventive south east Asian influences. This was probably one of my favourite meals in Sydney.

Address: 69 Commonwealth St, Surry Hills NSW 2010, Australia

Great food in a lovely setting. Don't miss the butter fish.

Address: Gate Village 08 - DIFC - Dubai - United Arab Emirates

One of the best meals I had in Melbourne. Delicious food in a lovely little restaurant (maybe a bit cramped but cosy).

Address: 125 Flinders Ln, Melbourne VIC 3004, Australia

A pan-Asian dining room at the Four Seasons on Bahrain Bay, with a sushi counter and a view over the water. We don't have a lot of good quality Asian restaurants in Bahrain, so I feel I can safely say this is the best one.

Address: Road 4606, Building 555, Block 346, Manama, Bahrain

An Asian restaurant on Wellington Street, in the city centre. Great place for a casual but really delicious meal. It was also perfect for solo dining as you can sit at the counter.

Address: 3 Wellington Street, Belfast BT1 6HT, United Kingdom

The famous Shabestan has been around since the 80s, which is a big deal in Dubai considering how new everything else is. It's in Deira with a nice view of the creek. They have some of the best Persian food you can get in Dubai especially when it comes to fine dining.

Address: Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek - Baniyas Rd - Dubai - United Arab Emirates

A Persian restaurant in the Bu Ghazal area of Manama. They have a sister restaurant called Homa and both have really delicious Persian dishes. The quality of the meat is something that distinguishes them from other Persian restaurants in Bahrain. Their koobideh is really succulent and delicious. I recommend the tahsheen (one of the few places that have a lamb tahsheen which I really appreciate) and also their khoresh bamieh.

Address: Bu Ghazal, Manama, Bahrain

A Nikkei restaurant – Peruvian cooking with Japanese technique – on Juana Manso in Puerto Madero. I would avoid the sushi and focus on the fish and meat dishes.

Address: Juana Manso 1164, C1107 Buenos Aires, Argentina

Absolutely amazing pizza at +39 Pizzeria. I can't recommend it enough probably one of the best pizzas I've had.

Address: 362 Little Bourke St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia

Great pizza and nice looking place - especially if you need a break from Finnish food.

Address: Sofiankatu 4, Helsinki, Finland

Best pizza in Dublin...it's also the only pizza I've ever had in Dublin but you should still trust me that it's worth trying.

Address: 58 Grand Canal Street Upper, Dublin, D04 FK13, Ireland

Fantastic Roman style pizza and a nice selection of starters and sides. The place isn't the most glamorous but you go there for the food not the ambiance.

Address: Via del Monte della Farina, 28, 00186 Roma, RM, Italy

The Soho outpost of Rudy's Pizza Napoletana. Slow-proved dough, San Marzano tomatoes and fior di latte, blistered in a wood-fired oven for a soft, charred crust. Casual and lively - a member of the Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana.

Address: 80 Wardour St, London W1F 0TF, UK

A favourite in Vienna's hip Neubau district, Bros. Pizza is known for its distinctive sourdough-base pizzas, quality toppings and cold beer in a laid-back, casual setting. A great spot for a relaxed, satisfying pizza and a friendly neighbourhood vibe.

Address: Zollergasse 2, 1070 Wien, Austria

A lively, no-frills pizzeria in Vienna's Wieden district, Pizza Randale 1050 turns out tasty, freshly made pizzas in a fun, casual atmosphere. A popular local spot for a quick, flavourful slice, dine-in or delivery.

Address: Kettenbrückengasse 1, 1050 Wien, Austria

A well-loved Neapolitan-style pizzeria in Vienna's Leopoldstadt, Pizza Mari' serves authentic wood-fired pizzas with quality ingredients and plenty of vegetarian options. A long-standing neighbourhood favourite for genuine Italian pizza, with takeout and delivery.

Address: Leopoldsgasse 23A, 1020 Wien, Austria

PST - Pizza Studio Tamaki - is one of Tokyo's most acclaimed pizzerias, near Tokyo Tower and Shiba Park. Chef Tsubasa Tamaki turns out blistered Neapolitan-style pies from a roaring oven. Seats are limited and it's deservedly popular, so booking ahead is wise.

Address: 1-chōme-24-6 Higashiazabu, Minato City, Tokyo 106-0044, Japan

A pizzeria on Via Statuto, near Moscova. Really delicious pizza in a rustic-style room.

Address: Via Statuto, 16, 20121 Milano MI, Italy

Delicious pizza in a lovely setting in Soho. A sister of Pizza East so you know the pizzas are just as good.

Address: 19-21 Old Compton Street, London, UK

A pizza bar on Elizabeth Street, in the city centre. Delicious pizzas and sides, along with a nice selection of cocktails.

Address: 283 Elizabeth St, Brisbane City QLD 4000, Australia

A branch of the Italian chain on Martin-Luther-Ring in Leipzig, whose 45 cm pizzas are made deliberately wider than the plates they arrive on. Nice casual place for pizza or pasta. It's decent, and honestly in Leipzig it was a challenge to find restaurants that were exceptional.

Address: Martin-Luther-Ring 12, 04109 Leipzig, Germany

A Neapolitan-style pizzeria on Via Senese, south of the river. Delicious pizza and I really loved the mortadella and pistachio pesto starter.

Address: Via Senese, 155r, 50124 Firenze FI, Italy

A pizzeria on Via Bernardino Luini, near Sant'Ambrogio, serving Cilento-style pizza. I can't say I've ever had bad pizza in Italy so it's really hard to say one is better than another but Da Zero is definitely one of the best.

Address: Via Bernardino Luini, 9, 20123 Milano MI, Italy

The Báo Khánh branch of Pizza 4P's, a Vietnam-based Japanese-Italian pizza chain that makes its own mozzarella. Really fantastic quality pizza. Their pasta dishes are pretty good too especially the one with crab.

Address: 11B Báo Khánh, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội 100000, Vietnam

A pizzeria on Via dei Macci, near the Sant'Ambrogio market. Best pizza we had in Florence.

Address: Via dei Macci, 113r, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy

A deep-dish pizza place on North Clybourn Avenue in Lincoln Park. I know it doesn't look great but take my word for it, it's delicious. It's just a bit messy. Deep-dish pizza should not be compared to Neapolitan or Roman pizza — it's a very different experience and can be very heavy.

Address: 2207 N Clybourn Ave, Chicago, IL 60614, United States

Neapolitan-style pizza a minute from Piazza San Marco. A reliable option in a part of Venice where that isn't a given.

Address: Calle Larga S. Marco, 404/408, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy

José Avillez's pizzeria on Rua Nova da Trindade, part of his Bairro do Avillez. Delicious pizza and sides at another fantastic José Avillez restaurant.

Address: R. Nova da Trindade 18, 1200-235 Lisboa, Portugal

A Neapolitan-style pizzeria on Via Plinio. Delicious pizza and a nice doughy crust, just the way I like it.

Address: Via Plinio, 6, 20129 Milano MI, Italy

A pizzeria on Via Andrea Maffei, in the Porta Romana area. Not the absolute best pizza I've had in Milan but definitely top quality, and it's popular with the locals.

Address: Via Andrea Maffei, 12, 20135 Milano MI, Italy

A pizzeria on Corso di Porta Ticinese, by the Colonne di San Lorenzo. Really delicious pizza with a lovely soft base.

Address: Corso di Porta Ticinese, 1, 20123 Milano MI, Italy

Lovely atmosphere and great food. Probably the best restaurant there.

Address: Sienna 12, 31-041 Kraków, Poland

One of the best meals I had in Poland was at Stary Dom. They serve traditional Polish dishes like the breaded and fried pork chop and pierogi. The interiors are very rustic and cosy.

Address: Stary Dom, Puławska, Warsaw, Poland

Lovely traditional Polish restaurant in Krakow. A bit touristy but the food is great. The place itself is very cosy in terms of design.

Address: plac Jana Matejki 5, 31-157 Kraków, Poland

U Kucharzy is a lovely restaurant serving traditional Polish dishes with a modern twist. It's a very lovely and pleasant restaurant with great atmosphere. It's formal but informal at the same time which is nice as it would work for various occasions.

Address: U Kucharzy, Długa, Warsaw, Poland

A nice, cosy and well decorated traditional Polish restaurant with some European influences. Great atmosphere and delicious food.

Address: Świętej Gertrudy 21, 31-048 Kraków, Poland

Nice, if a bit touristy, place to have a quick bite for lunch.

Address: Konspira, Plac Solny, Wrocław, Poland