The Prix Versailles honors the world’s most stunning restaurants, where exceptional culinary excellence meets groundbreaking design and extraordinary architecture. In 2024, 16 visionary establishments will compete for the prestigious global title.
Every year, the Prix Versailles awards prizes to the most outstanding gastronomic establishments that impress with their architecture and design. This year's list of the world's most beautiful restaurants includes 16 newly opened or renovated establishments that have made a particular impression on the jury.
These restaurants will now compete for the Prix Versailles, Interior and Exterior titles, which will be awarded at the UNESCO headquarters in Paris at the end of November. Jérôme Gouadain, Secretary General of the Prix Versailles, emphasises: "The most beautiful restaurants are an expression of a successful combination of architecture and gastronomy. They represent a harmonious design that is both aesthetically pleasing and functional."
In Dubai, Ariana's Persian Kitchen brings the vibrant colours and cultural heritage of the Iranian city of Kashan to life. The 300-year-old building has been decorated with traditional ceramics and colourful lighting that bathes the white marble floor in shimmering patterns. The cuisine offers complex, aromatic flavours that take the senses on a delectable journey.
The elegant Reine & La Rue is located in the historic Cathedral Room of the Melbourne Stock Exchange. Designers Akin Atelier and Roger Beeston Architects have created a modern restaurant that skillfully combines the historic grandeur of the space with contemporary elegance. The cosy bar area, La Rue, offers an intimate contrast to the majestic main space.
Tuju, under the direction of chef Ivan Ralston, features Brazilian design with a vertical garden that runs through the building on three floors. The menus reflect the seasonal changes and offer a culinary journey through the weather phases. The design combines traditional Brazilian elements with modern elegance.
The Cristal Room by Anne-Sophie Pic, the world's most awarded Michelin-starred chef, is a masterpiece of French art and technology. The futuristic design by Gilles & Boissier uses the play of light from crystal to create a mystical and ethereal atmosphere that visually enhances the culinary experience.
Tomacado impresses with a floral design inspired by the Hong Kong orchid. Liang Architecture has created a garden landscape that transforms the restaurant into a stylised, romantic floral paradise. The table arrangements and floral decorations create a dreamy, intimate atmosphere.
The Virador Beach Club blends seamlessly into its surroundings as if it had always been there. Jorge Borja has used modern materials such as local stone and wood to blend the new design with the natural beauty of its environment. The restaurant offers a fusion of Mexican and Eastern Mediterranean cuisine.
The Blanc in Paris, designed by Kengo Kuma, uses Japanese traditions and materials in a contemporary way. The elegant design of the restaurant, which features a glass bubble in the kitchen and a bronze-clad corridor, offers a mysterious and transparent atmosphere.
Maison Ladurée on the Champs-Élysées combines 160 years of history with a floral design reminiscent of the Impressionists. The restaurant, designed by Malherbe Paris, includes a winter garden, a café and a dessert bar and offers a luxurious, cultural experience in the heart of the city.
Riviera Fuga brings the French Riviera to Paris, with a floating restaurant reminiscent of the glamorous 1960s and 1970s. The design by JP Demeyer & Co, combined with Italian-Japanese fusion cuisine, creates a relaxed and stylish atmosphere.
In the historic Corso Venezia in Milan, the architect duo Humbert & Poyet have housed the Beefbar in an architectural masterpiece. The restaurant combines Italian elegance and modern design and reflects the cultural and historical splendour of Milan.
The Oreum in Goyang offers a unique experience reminiscent of a mountain landscape. The modern interpretation of a birch forest and the atmosphere of water and mist create a calming and impressive backdrop that puts the culinary experience at the centre.
Auyl is presented in a former Soviet monument that was moved from Aktau to Almaty. The design by NAAW and Dunie Design offers a modern interpretation of Central Asian cuisine and creates an almost sacred atmosphere amidst the traditions of Kazakhstan.
The Madi Hiyaa uses biomimetic design, inspired by the silhouette of rays, to create a harmonious connection to the surrounding lagoon. The structural bamboo design reflects the natural surroundings and offers a unique culinary experience in a breathtaking context.
Harudot in Chonburi unites architecture, culture and nature in a unique way. The collaboration between the café owner and the landowner creates an elegant, spiritual atmosphere that invites you to enjoy a peaceful and contemplative stay.
Nusara offers a sensory journey through Thai culture and craftsmanship over four floors. The windows present the view of Bangkok's temples like a movie, while the interior design and textiles celebrate Thailand's traditions and creative culture.
The "Ilis" in Brooklyn combines culinary artistry with a unique design concept that integrates the cooking and service area as part of the overall performance. The design by Grant Blakeslee creates a dynamic and captivating atmosphere in which the kitchen and restaurant merge into a joint performance.
