If you’ve been dreaming of a luxury vacation where the food is as unforgettable as the scenery, this week’s article is for you. Whether you are a seasoned gourmand or just looking for a delicious excuse to travel, our latest Now/Soon/Later feature is here to spice up your travel plans. From London’s cozy fall dining scene and Paris’s winter feasts to Positano’s fresh springtime flavors, these destinations offer culinary delights every season. For our latest edition, we have enlisted our friend, partner, and world traveler, Greg Kooser of House of Kooser, to share his picks for the top foodie destinations to visit now, soon, or later.
NOW: The Royal Lancaster, London
Gone are the days of English food being dismissed as the worst in Europe; today, London has emerged as a vibrant multicultural foodie hotspot. As autumn draws closer, London invites visitors to experience its renowned food culture, from cozy pubs serving the hearty classics to innovative, trendy restaurants with new seasonal dishes. The Royal Lancaster London, with its prime location and top-notch dining, offers a perfect base for exploring this new food scene. Against a backdrop of changing leaves, London’s gray skies transform, creating the ideal time to explore its diverse food scene. With a trip to London this fall, you’ll discover that the only thing better than the scenery is the city’s culinary revolution—proof that London’s food scene is now a standout experience in its own right!
“One of my favorite times to visit London and the Royal Lancaster is in the fall,” our partner Greg Kooser says. “I love when the leaves start to change, and the heat of summer has passed. I love to throw on a sweater and walk through Hyde Park, taking in the beauty of the fall foliage. If it’s your first time visiting London, you must jump aboard one of the iconic Double Decker buses and experience the sights.” When it comes to UK dining, Greg highlights his preferences: “After a morning of sightseeing, I like to pop into one of the many English Pubs and have a sausage roll or fish and chips. Or if you are feeling adventurous, my favorite Mexican – yes, I said Mexican – restaurant is Wahaca and the lamb tacos are a delight. After more sightseeing, I will take in a show and dine at my favorite Nipa Thai in the Royal Lancaster.”
Sally Beck, General Manager of the Royal Lancaster London likewise recommends Nipa Thai, stating it is “a hidden gem tucked away on our first floor serving the most authentic and delicious Thai cuisine in the city. It’s award-winning for a reason!” Sally continues, “If you’re looking to sample something a little more British, then head to nearby Marylebone for traditional fish and chips at a true London institution, The Seashell of Lisson Grove, which has welcomed everyone from Lady Gaga to Stevie Wonder over the last 60 years.” Sally states: “One of my favorite things about staying at Royal Lancaster London in the autumn is being able to admire the stunning views across the city from our top floors. After enjoying breakfast in our beautiful Park Restaurant with views of the Italian Gardens, take a stroll through neighboring Hyde Park where you can feed the colorful Parakeets and rent a boat on the Serpentine Lake.”
SOON: La Fondation Paris
Paris during the winter holidays is an experience like no other. As the city embraces the chill, its charm is amplified by twinkling streetlights and the beauty of its historic streets frosted with snow. The festive season transforms Paris into a winter wonderland, offering an array of new activities. Wander through Christmas markets, marvel at the window displays at Galeries Lafayette, go ice skating around iconic landmarks, and enjoy classical concerts in old churches like the Saint-Germain des Prés. When you get hungry, remember that there is so much more than steak frites and French onion soup. Stop by the brand new La Fondation, opening in late summer 2024, for some of the best dining options with views of their residential neighborhood. Paris in winter promises an escape that combines the city’s timeless allure with the warmth of good food and the holiday spirit.
Celebrating cosmopolitan Paris, La Fondation’s restaurants and stunning rooftop will set a new standard of delicious flavors and a unique dining experience. Situated on the 8th floor of the hotel, their restaurant offers an eclectic menu designed to please every palate, making it the perfect spot to indulge in contemporary cuisine. The rooftop, with stunning views over Paris, offers innovative, delicious food and hand-crafted cocktails to engage all the senses. Wherever you end up eating in La Fondation, the hotel ensures a memorable visit filled with culinary delights and vibrant entertainment. In addition to dining at La Fondation, Greg adds, “My other favorite must-have while in Paris is a stop at Ms. Kō. It transforms from an incredible dinner to a nightclub vibe as the night goes on.”
Marion Gérent, General Manager of La Fondation Paris, expresses the hotel’s commitment to culinary excellence: “At La Fondation, we pride ourselves on delivering an unparalleled guest experience through our fresh culinary offerings and personalized service. Our head chef sources the freshest local ingredients to create a menu that celebrates the region’s rich flavors. Whether dining in our Brasserie restaurant, our bistronomic restaurant, or on our Rooftop, our guests can expect a unique and unforgettable culinary journey.” The hotel’s dedication to quality and personalized service ensures that every visit to La Fondation is exceptional and exceeds expectations.
LATER: Hotel Villa Franca, Positano
Italy has always been a top travel destination, renowned for its rich history, vibrant culture, and delicious dining options. While the grand cities of Rome, Venice, and Florence attract global attention, the Amalfi Coast offers a more serene escape. In Positano, the Amalfi Coast’s beauty reaches its height in spring, from April to mid-June, when the weather is pleasantly mild and nature is in full bloom. This is the ideal time to experience the vibrant colors of the coast and enjoy the serenity of its beaches and charming streets. The coastal views look like paintings, providing an ideal backdrop for many memorable meals. For a stay that captures the essence of this idyllic destination, Hotel Villa Franca stands out with its minimalist luxury, refined comfort, and award-winning restaurants. The hotel offers breathtaking views and a sophisticated atmosphere that perfectly complements Positano’s natural beauty, ensuring a memorable Italian foodie escape.
Positano isn’t just a summer destination. Spring offers a unique charm with evening breezes along the sea, fiery red sunsets, and breathtaking walks on the famous hiking trail, the Path of the Gods. “I love traveling to Positano in the spring before the crowds and heat arrive during the summer months,” Greg Kooser shares. He highlights the beauty of this time of year, noting, “The walk from the hills to the beach is breathtaking. Be sure to experience the Amalfi Coast from the sea with a luxury boat trip.” Massimo Napoli, General Manager of Hotel Villa Franca, invites guests to experience the hotel’s exceptional hospitality: “Villa Franca is not just a hotel; it’s a house that welcomes guests from around the world, radiating positive vibes and delivering an unforgettable experience. It’s an immersion in art and design, with every guest captivated by its stunning views of Positano and the coast.”
Indulge in exceptional dining experiences at Hotel Villa Franca, where every meal is a celebration of Italian elegance. Located in a prime position, in the most panoramic point of Positano, this boutique hotel encompasses all the charm of the Amalfi Coast. From the exclusive rooftop terrace, unique with a breathtaking 360° view of the entire coast and the characteristic colorful houses, you get lost between the blue of the sky and the sparkling sea. Savor Mediterranean cuisine and unique cocktails at the rooftop GOLD, indulge in Michelin-starred dishes at Li Galli—described by our partner Greg as “food like art, so beautiful you almost don’t want to eat it”—or unwind at the O’SPA. The O’RO Incanto Lounge offers traditional Campanian fare and inventive cocktails crafted by expert mixologists, ensuring a truly sophisticated stay.
Ready to plan your foodie adventure for now, soon or later? Our expert team at CIRE is ready for you!
Check out our prior editions of Now/Soon/Later here:
- Ultra-luxury destination hotels for honeymooners and vacationers
- Fabulous beach vacation destinations
- New openings and hidden gems
- Time to Disconnect: Go off-the-grid
- Destination Dubai
- Ideas for your annual family vacation
- Inspiring Corporate Retreats & Memorable Company Off-site Meetings
CIRE Travel is a full-service travel agency headquartered in New York, NY. Our expert corporate travel planners, honeymoon travel agents, and luxury travel planners support clients across the country and around the world.
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