Fine Dining: A Different Standard (Part Two)

2. La Maison 1888 (Vietnam)

(Photo courtesy of Golden Spoon Awards)

La Maison 1888 captures the essence of haute French dining, with the distinct gourmet experience of delectable à la carte menu of distinguished classic French cuisine in Danang. Crowned as “World’s Leading Fine Dining Hotel Restaurant 2017” by World Travel Awards, this signature restaurant is hailed as the number one gastronomic destination in Vietnam.

Being the first restaurant in Vietnam that features a Michelin-starred chef and after three successful years working with Michel Roux, La Maison 1888 is now home to the world-renowned three Michelin- starred chef Pierre Gagnaire.

(Photo courtesy of DestinAsian)

Gagnaire (born 9 April 1950 in Apinac, Loire) is an iconoclastic chef at the forefront of the fusion cuisine movement.

Beginning his career in St Etienne where he won three Michelin Stars, Gagnaire tore at the conventions of classic French cooking by introducing jarring juxtapositions of flavours, tastes, textures, and ingredients. Famously known for his skills in reinventing French cuisine, his culinary motto has always been ‘facing tomorrow but respectful of yesterday’ (“tourné vers demain mais soucieux d’hier”).

(Photo courtesy of Trip Advisor)

Top 10 in the World’s Best New Restaurants 2016 by CNN, this truly special French restaurant was designed to recreate an antique French mansion with each dining area its own intimate niche reflecting a period room.

How much? A five-course dinner at La Maison 1888 goes for about BND177, while a seven-course is priced at BND238. Highly recommended dishes include sea bass carpaccio, lobster tail and roasted veal tenderloin.

The restaurant is open for lunch on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from noon to 2pm. It is open everyday for dinner from 6.30pm to 10.30pm. Early reservations are highly recommended.

3. Dinner Under The Stars (Indonesia)

(Photos courtesy of Four Seasons Resort, Bali at Sayan)

Ever dreamt of dining under the hypnotic stars while devouring delicious food? Famous for dreamy getaways, Bali, Indonesia is also home to Dinner Under The Stars at Four Seasons Resort, Sayan, which promises a private, romantic experience like no other, as well as a luxurious fine dining affair with a five-course menu of either Western or Indonesian selections.

Partake in the Ikan Rica Rica, a dish comprising fresh red snapper, sweet potato as well as local basil and lime leaves. However, a personalised menu can also be requested, according to your preferences. Indulge in the delicious fare atop a lotus pond, surrounded by the panoramic views of the surrounding jungles and the Ayung River below.

Reservations are essential, and prices vary depending on what’s offered on the menu.

4. Plane in the City (Malaysia)

(Photo courtesy of Discover KL)

For an unparalleled gastronomic experience, enjoy a First Class meal at Plane in the City, an actual Boeing 737 plane that has been converted into a restaurant in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Exclusivity is a priority here, as only 20 diners are allowed per session, which lasts for 90 minutes.

The fun part is when you are invited to board the plane by the stewardess and she announced it over the PA system. You may even be offered to walk on the plane’s wing.

(Photo courtesy of Taufulou)

With dishes prepared by chefs from the Le Méridien, such as the smoked pepper crust duck breast and Foie gras gyoza, the sky is undoubtedly the limit when it comes to the restaurant’s promise in delivering an extraordinary fine dining affair. Prices range from around BND83 (Economy Class) to BND332 (First Class).

5. Waku Ghin (Singapore)

(Photos courtesy of Marina Bay Sands)

This visually incredible and exquisitely flavourful Tasmanian Cape Grim Beef Tartare is a work of art – it’s an exceptional display of culinary finesse.

Waku Ghin in Singapore is distinguished with Two Michelin Stars, with a menu comprising the freshest Australian catches, the most precise French culinary techniques and a distinct Japanese-style presentation.

Satiate your palate with the 10-course degustation menu, with flavours elevated by quality ingredients while taking in the magnificent view of Singapore’s skyline.

The name ‘Waku Ghin’ is derived from two Japanese words: ‘Waku’ meaning to ‘arise’ (like water pouring forth from a hot spring) and ‘Ghin’ meaning ‘silver’, Chef Tetsuya’s signature colour found throughout the 8,000 square foot space, featuring an intimate bar, three private cocoon rooms and a main dining room.