I’ve had the honor of dining in some of the most famous cities in the world, so I’ve had the opportunity to see firsthand how different places might have different approaches to fine dining. Luxury dining is at its height in Paris, Tokyo, and New York, but each city has its own unique flavor, both literally and figuratively.
In Paris, classic elegance is paramount. I was immersed in a culture where tradition is paramount when I ate at Le Meurice. Centuries of culinary perfection were celebrated by the elegant plating, sophisticated service, and delicate French skills. Fine dining in Paris takes its time; each course is enjoyed and every element is carefully chosen. Here, chefs who are experts in their field are reimagining French classics in a way that pays homage to the past.
Tokyo, however, offers a very different experience. It was a revelation to eat at Narisawa, where Japanese attention to detail permeates every aspect of the experience, not just the cuisine. The reverence for nature was evident in each course, which was a voyage through the seasons. Tokyo’s excellent dining offers a special fusion of creativity and respect for history. Everything feels deliberate and well-balanced, whether it’s the beauty of kaiseki or the accuracy of sushi at Sukiyabashi Jiro. The focus is on polishing every element.
Then there’s New York, where fashions change all the time. Chef Daniel Humm’s daring approach to plant-based haute cuisine at Eleven Madison Park astounded me. Culinary creativity is encouraged in New York’s fine dining scene, which is a melting pot of international influences. The inventiveness and bold flavors I experienced here challenged conventions in ways that were thrilling and unforgettable.
Every location offers something unique, and the opportunity to contrast them has deepened my understanding of how fine dining extravagance changes around the world.