EuropeanLife Magazine 2018 #1 #1 | Page 32

H ome to world-renowned chefs, boasting multiple Michelin stars, Monaco is not just a coastal paradise, but also a haven of sumptuous culinary delights. With some of the best restaurants in the world, we’ve narrowed down the top fine-dining experiences based on cuisine, atmosphere and not to mention that certain ‘je ne sais pas’. Joël Robuchon, Hotel Metropole The name alone indicates the prestige of this 2-Michelin star res- taurant. The world-renowned chef Joël Robuchon is widely rec- ognized for his experimental blend of flavors and dedication to the art of the food. Working with Head Chef Christophe Cussac, this Monte-Carlo based restaurant serves a taste of the Mediter- ranean, focusing on only the finest ingredients. Situated in the majestic Hotel Metropole, close to the main casino square, the open setting creates an intimate relationship between guests and the staff in the preparation station. Witness a masterpiece in the making while savoring a selection from the exquisite wine list. In summers, the clientele is often privileged to relish the expertly- crafted menu sitting on the terrace whilst soaking up the warm weather and panoramic views. Cipriani Le Louis XV-Alain Ducasse à l’Hôtel de Paris Lined with marble sculptures and crystal chande- liers, Hôtel de Paris is nothing short of a palace, and it’s certainly fitting to say that a restaurant of such grand magnitude resides here. Inspired by the scenic French Riviera, the modern, chic menu at Le Louis XV-Alain Ducasse offers an array of aromatic seasoning and a culinary style that has earned chefs Alain Ducasse and Dominique Lory 3-Michelin stars. Undertake a gourmet journey ranging from blue lobster to Sautéed veal sweet- bread to a warm lemon from Menton soufflé. The refined detail with which food is carefully put to- gether is apparent in both the presentation and the taste of the dishes. The raspberries and other fruits are picked from local farms, while the selection of the desserts is made in the chefs’ factory in Paris — an authen- tic homage to the culinary skill and essence of French cooking. 32 Effortlessly suave, Cipriani is famous for its authentic Italian ambiance as well as its generous portion sizes and friendly waiting staff. Owner Flavio Briatore has dabbled in the fashion world, Grand Prix and more recently, hospitality. His familiarity with the finer things in life is apparent in the design of his res- taurant. Located on the ground floor of Le Mirabeau building, Cipriani’s signature leather brown armchairs and marble floors simply reflect the level of luxury one can expect on a yacht. On the first floor, a members-only area comes with a private bar and terrace, and opens for lunches from mid-day onwards. The food at Cipriani is flavorful and sophisticated, keeping to traditional tastes of Italy: homemade pasta, herb tomato sauce, thinly-sliced veal, and cured pork cheek — rich and hearty dishes, perfectly accompanied with wines from the continent. Nobu Monte Carlo With a chain of restaurants dotted all over the world, Nobu is no stranger to fine-dining and catering to the needs of guests. Acclaimed chef Nobuyuki Matsuhisa specializes in Japanese cuisine, merging traditional cooking with infu- sions of South American spices. Centering on the fifth taste, umami, Nobu radiates excellence in all of its dishes. According to Matsuhisa, each dish comes with a small surprise to encour- age diners to expand their pallets and hidden preferences; for him, it’s about “communicat- ing kokoro in every dish” — kokoro being the Japanese term for heart or feeling. It’s more or less about one experiencing VIP Japan in the Fairmont Monte Carlo overlook- ing the blue sea while watching boats sail by. Happy hour runs every evening from 6 to 8 pm when guests can purchase cocktails from the new menu, expertly made by mixologists. With its minimalist décor and modern sushi bar, it’s no surprise Nobu is regularly frequented by ce- lebrities including Prince Albert and Princess Charlene of Monaco. Find the perfect accommodation for your stay in Monaco on www.alltherooms.com. 33