For most people, food is nothing more than fuel; something to help propel them from point A to point B. However, for foodies and other indulgent folk, cuisine is practically a lifestyle choice, bordering on fanaticism.
Unfortunately for them, some of the best restaurants in the world are paired with quite the price tag. Unless you’re willing to risk bankruptcy or debt, these places may be a little out of your price range, but if you need an excuse to salivate, here are three of the most expensive restaurants in the world.
Ithaa
The Ithaa Undersea Restaurant in the Maldives is home to Asian influenced, contemporary European dishes and boasts one of the most stellar dining experiences in the world. The restaurant is located 16 feet below sea level in the Alif Dhaal Atoll and is surrounded by a glass enclosure that patrons can gaze out of at local sea life swimming by.
Designed and constructed by New Zealand design consultancy, M.J. Murphy Ltd, Ithaa opened in 2005 and since then has garnered worldwide attention. But, if you want a reservation, you better hop to it. Due to water erosion and other natural damages, the estimated lifespan of the restaurant is about 20 years.
Masa
When it comes to fine dining in the heart of New York City, Masa is definitely a cut above the rest. Owned and operated by Chef Masa Takayama, this particular restaurant follows the Omakase tradition in which all food selections are left up to the chef. So, if it’s delicious, fresh sushi you want without the burden of making a decision, this is the place for you.
Restaurateurs can expect to pay about $450 to $600 per person, and if for whatever reason you need to cancel a reservation, be ready to shell out an additional $200. This restaurant is no joke, and after receiving several awards from the New York Times, Forbes and Travel + Leisure, you can bet that it’s here to stay.
Sublimotion
Sublimotion, the brainchild of double Michelin-starred chef, Paco Roncero, is located behind an unmarked door next to the Hard Rock Hotel in Ibiza. Although seemingly unappealing upon first sight, what lies behind the door is nothing short of fantastic.
The restaurant itself only seats 12 people, but those fortunate enough to afford the $2,000 per head cost, can look forward to not only an exquisite dining experience, but a sensory experience as well.
Previous guests often recant tales of elaborate projections of butterflies and other stimulating images on their table during the meal and even well-timed light shows to accompany the first bite they take of Chef Roncero’s unique courses.
Now, as lavish as these may be, it can be hard to justify spending this much money on a meal. Some people see it as a status symbol, while others are simply on the hunt for the perfect dish. However, these places are nothing to break your bank over. Sure, the food is great and the ambiance is one of a kind, but for the price, you might be better off saving a few pennies and hitting the drive-thru.