Fine Dining: My Journey Through the Best Michelin-Star Restaurants Around the Globe

There was a time when fine dining felt like a distant world—something I read about in magazines but never imagined experiencing myself. Growing up, food was about sustenance, not luxury. My early experiences were simple yet fulfilling—home-cooked meals, street food that carried stories, and occasional restaurant visits that felt like grand celebrations. But as I grew older, I realized that food could be more than just a necessity; it could be an experience, an art form, and a story told through flavors.

That realization took me on an unforgettable journey—a quest to experience the best Michelin-star restaurants around the world. But getting there wasn’t easy. There were struggles, sacrifices, and moments of doubt. And yet, every bite, every course, and every experience made the effort worthwhile.

The Struggles of Experiencing Luxury Dining

Budgeting for a Dream

My first major challenge was money. Fine dining comes at a price, and as someone on a budget, I had to make trade-offs. I skipped taxis in favor of long walks, stayed in budget hostels, and even lived on instant noodles some days just to afford a seat at these culinary temples. There was a time in Paris when I had only enough left for one luxury meal, and I had to decide—do I eat at a Michelin-starred restaurant or extend my stay? I chose the meal, and to this day, I have no regrets.

There were nights when I wondered if this journey was worth it. Spending hundreds of dollars on a single meal when I could have used that money for multiple days of travel felt excessive. But then I’d sit down at a restaurant like Le Bernardin in New York, take that first bite of delicately prepared seafood, and all my doubts would disappear. The complexity of flavors, the years of craftsmanship behind each dish, and the sheer passion on every plate made me understand that this was more than just food—it was an experience worth every sacrifice.

The Battle of Reservations

Getting a reservation at a Michelin-star restaurant isn’t just about clicking a button. Some places require bookings months in advance, and others are so exclusive that you need a local connection. I remember trying to book a table at Osteria Francescana in Italy. I refreshed their website every morning, hoping for an opening, and finally, after weeks of trying, I secured a spot. The anticipation alone made the meal feel like a grand event.

At The French Laundry in Napa Valley, I faced an even greater challenge. The restaurant’s online reservation system opened at precisely 10 a.m., and within seconds, every slot was gone. I had to try multiple times, enlist friends to help, and even call the restaurant before I finally got in. When I finally walked through the doors, it felt like winning a golden ticket.

The Learning Curve

I wasn’t just an outsider in terms of affordability—I also lacked knowledge. My first Michelin experience left me feeling out of place. How do you truly appreciate a 12-course tasting menu? What does "deconstructed" mean? Why does a dish that looks so simple cost as much as an entire meal elsewhere? I had no idea what half the ingredients on the menu were, but over time, I learned. I asked questions, listened to chefs, and slowly, fine dining became less intimidating and more exciting.

There were awkward moments, like using the wrong fork or not knowing how to pair wines properly. At Restaurant Guy Savoy in Paris, I accidentally picked up a delicate amuse-bouche with my fingers instead of using the tiny spoon provided. The server smiled politely and gently guided me, making me realize that fine dining isn’t about being perfect—it’s about appreciating the craft.

The Most Memorable Michelin-Star Experiences

1. Sukiyabashi Jiro, Tokyo, Japan

My journey led me to Tokyo, where I faced one of my biggest dining challenges yet—getting a reservation at Sukiyabashi Jiro, the legendary three-star sushi restaurant. It was nearly impossible without a local contact, but I was determined. After weeks of searching, I managed to book through a hotel concierge.

Walking into Jiro’s restaurant was surreal. There were no fancy decorations, no long menus—just Jiro Ono, the sushi master, and his apprentices. The precision in his hands, the way he carefully placed each piece of sushi before me, was mesmerizing. Every bite was pure, refined, and unlike anything I had ever tasted. The sushi melted in my mouth, and for those 30 minutes, I forgot about everything else. It wasn’t just a meal; it was an honor to be there.

2. El Celler de Can Roca, Girona, Spain

One of the most emotional dining experiences I had was at El Celler de Can Roca, a three-star Michelin restaurant run by the Roca brothers. Their dishes aren’t just about taste—they tell a story.

I still remember a dish called “The World,” where each bite represented a different country—Thai flavors, Moroccan spices, Japanese precision, all in one course. But above all, it was the warmth that left a lasting impression. The Roca brothers personally greeted guests, making fine dining feel intimate and welcoming. It was a reminder that luxury dining doesn’t have to be cold—it can be filled with heart.

3. Noma, Copenhagen, Denmark

Noma had always been my dream restaurant. Known for redefining Nordic cuisine, it was named the best restaurant in the world multiple times. But getting a reservation was nearly impossible. I set alarms, refreshed booking pages, and finally secured a table.

Dining at Noma felt like stepping into nature itself. Every dish reflected the landscape—fermented berries, reindeer moss, seafood from the fjords. One dish, a fermented quail egg served in a nest, made me pause. It felt raw, primal, yet deeply sophisticated. The creativity in each course made me realize that food isn’t just about taste—it’s about storytelling, culture, and a chef’s vision.

4. Gaggan, Bangkok, Thailand

One of the most fun Michelin experiences I had was at Gaggan, the now-closed, innovative Indian restaurant in Bangkok. Chef Gaggan Anand created a 25-course emoji menu, where each dish was represented by an emoji rather than a description. This playful approach made the meal feel like an adventure. I had dishes served in test tubes, edible spheres that burst in my mouth, and the most flavorful Indian-inspired tacos. It was a reminder that fine dining doesn’t have to be serious—it can be fun and full of surprises.

The Journey Continues

Even after all these experiences, my journey is far from over. Some people travel for sights; I travel for flavors. Because in the end, the best meals aren’t just about what’s on the plate—they’re about the memories they create.

Bon appétit!