Traveling often revolves around food as people seek out culinary experiences that are new and unique. Discovering restaurants that have a storied history is a fun way to enhance any trip, and the following restaurants have earned their stellar reputations by offering delectable cuisine, attentive service and a little slice of history.
Mt. Fuji Steakhouse, Hillburn, NY
Celebrating 50 years of introducing authentic Japanese cuisine and centuries-honored culture to its guests, the iconic Mt. Fuji Steakhouse – a resplendent Tutor-style mansion — is set atop the Ramapo Mountains. The dining experience is complemented by spectacular views of the exquisitely landscaped grounds with beautiful flowers and peaceful koi ponds. The Japanese Steakhouse expansive property includes 24 hibachi grills, a Sushi Bar, The Views (catering and event space) and the newly opened Y’s Lounge where a Japanese fusion menu is meant for sharing in an elegant ambience. Executive Chef Yoshio Shinohara and Hibachi Chef Moody Tengker prepare such delectable dishes as Sukiyaki Prime Steak along with a variety of seafood and chicken entrees. Don’t miss the Super Sunday Brunch featuring an extensive carving station and a sushi presentation by master chefs.
La Cucina at Il Salviatino, Florence, Italy
Originally built as a humble farmhouse then refurbished by some of Florence’s elite families over the years, Il Salviatino is set within the sloping hills of Fiesole. Surrounded by a lush private park, the villa was built in the 15th century and over the years has been a cultural gathering place for artists, performers, and intellectuals. Over the years the villa was owned by art critics and was even student housing for Stanford University. Today La Cucina is as tied to its territory serving up locally sourced cuisine with the best views of the Tuscan capital. La Cucina has devoted a portion of what was once the historic orchard to an organic vegetable garden in order to offer vegetables, fruit and aromatic herbs that are truly from producer to consumer.
Hotel Barrière Le Fouquet’s Paris, Paris, France
Officially registered as a Historic Monument, travelers can dine at the Hollywood hotspot, Fouquet’s Paris, which has served as the preferred meeting place of artists, writers and filmmakers for more than 120 years. Beneath sparkling golden chandeliers, black and white photos of famous guests line the walls of the brasserie and a glass case showcases silver napkin rings reserved for the restaurant’s most loyal celebrity guests (Bruce Willis, Jack Nicholson and Liza Minnelli). Serving classic Parisian cuisine beloved by A-listers and locales alike, Chef Pierre Gagnaire makes nostalgic, regional flavors come alive in his cuisine.
Grant Grill at THE US GRANT, San Diego, CA
Located in San Diego’s Gaslamp Quarter and a San Diego icon since 1910, THE US GRANT is known for hosting 15 U.S. presidents, five first ladies and operating a speakeasy during the prohibition. Today, the property boasts one of the nation’s most prolific cocktail programs. In the 1950’s and 60’s, Grant Grill was known as the place to power lunch, a favorite of lawyers, bankers and editors, and was men’s only until 3 p.m. However, in 1969, the strict policy was lifted when a group of local female attorneys staged a sit-in until the policy was removed. Keeping cuisine simple yet elegant drives the philosophy of Executive Chef Mark Kropczynski and his culinary team.
Rec Pier Chop House at Sagamore Pendry Baltimore, Baltimore, MD
Sagamore Pendry Baltimore and signature restaurant, Rec Pier Chop House, developed by acclaimed Chef Andrew Carmellini, sit on the historic Recreation Pier in Baltimore’s waterfront district of Fell’s Point. The building was built in 1914 where many immigrants coming to the U.S. via Baltimore disembarked through “Rec Pier,” which doubled as their dance hall and social center. The restaurant is a prime Italian chophouse featuring classic culinary offerings and an expansive craft cocktail menu and wine list. The Cannon Room cocktail bar derives its name from the archeological find of three 18th century cannons unearthed during the construction of the hotel. Guests can choose from elevated bar fare and a carefully curated menu of bourbon, rye and premium whiskey in a setting rich with history and warmth.
Caribar at Caribe Hilton, San Juan, Puerto Rico
The historic and iconic Caribe Hilton is home to the Caribar, the birthplace and home of the piña colada since 1954. This Puerto Rican resort is situated on a private 17-acre lushly landscaped peninsula with a secluded beach and is located near the Old San Juan historic district and many of the destination’s top attractions. The Caribar is a must for any travelers looking to immerse themselves in Puerto Rico’s rich history. It presents hand-crafted cocktails and a delicious tapas menu in an iconic setting with panoramic ocean views. Taste the evolution of the Piña Colada, from the original recipe that was created at the hotel in 1954 to global variations, including a contemporary version, The Clear Colada.
Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria, Vittoria Restaurant, Sorrento, Italy
The majestic Vittoria breakfast room is iconic with its parquet floor and original 19th century frescoed ceiling, and boasts one of Italy’s most celebrated hotel breakfasts. On the ground floor is the enchanting Art Nouveau-style Winter Garden with its wooden grills and beautiful flower baskets. Offerings include an incredible buffet breakfast, including a wide range of hot and cold dishes, desserts, homemade jams, marmalade prepared with oranges from the hotel’s garden.
Blessing Boutique at Hotel T’ Klooster, Willemstad, Curacao
Blessing Boutique was originally built as a monastery, which is called “Klooster” in Dutch. The sunny property sits in the heart of Curaçao’s capital city of Willemstad, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Blessing, the on-property restaurant, was once a cathedral and monastery. The restaurant maintains its chapel-style exterior while serving eclectic dishes – think funchi, wolfish and gin and tonic-marinated salmon.
