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Asia, Cuisine, Luxury Journeys

Tokyo’s Finest: Uncover the City’s Top 8 Fine Dining Restaurants

August 10, 2023 by Luxury Gold No Comments
Plate of high-end sushi, with a hand holding chopsticks

The Michelin star restaurants in Japan are among the world’s best. The total number of Japanese Michelin stars within the country is second only to France’s dominant gourmet galaxy. Tokyo’s fine dining scene is as far-reaching as the city itself. Sushi, sukiyaki, yakitori, kamameshi, and other traditional staples are widely available, as is timeless French food, North American classics, and a host of other international cuisines both untouched and infused.

Save the street food tours for another evening and come hungry for one of these luxury Japanese restaurant experiences that you can only find in Tokyo.

Sukiyabashi Jiro Roppongi

Bottle of Sukiyabashi Jiro citrus vinegar on table
Photo credit: @sukiyabashi.jiro

You may know Jiro Ono by name or by his reputation as one of the world’s greatest sushi chefs, but what you may not realize is that getting a coveted seat in his restaurant Sukiyabashi Jiro is all but impossible for most diners. It’s actually one of the few Michelin starred restaurants in Japan to lose its three stars because the ten-seater restaurant was too exclusive. 

However, a visit to Sukiyabashi Jiro Roppongi is much more accessible to the dining public, serving up a two Michelin stars sushi experience from Jiro’s son, Takashi Ono. White fish, red fish, sea urchin, sashi, and toro are all plated at this eight-seater in Roppongi Hills.

Den

3 letters, 2 Michelin stars, 1 Michelin green clover, and the #1 Best Restaurant in Asia according to The World’s 50 Best Restaurants. Run the numbers any way you wish: Den will all but disappoint. We’re also willing to bet that Den is one of the few Michelin starred restaurants in Japan with their own chihuahua mascot. Quirkiness in marketing, maybe; tradition in cuisine, definitely. A Hyper-seasonal kaiseki framework dictates the locally-sustainable menu so expect an eclectic mix of ingredients ranging from foie gras to ants. Let the premium sake flow as you make your way to the crowd-pleasing signature dish, Dentucky Fried Chicken wings.

More about Japan’s seasons: Why spring is the best time to visit Japan

New York Grill

Tables set at New York Grill Restaurant, Tokyo, Japan

Photo credit: @parkhyatttokyo

Experiencing the world’s cultures and communities through local cuisine is second to none, but every person with a passport has found themselves longing for familiar flavors abroad. Find a taste of home at Park Hyatt Tokyo’s New York Grill. It may not be a fine dining Japanese restaurant, but it earns its chops as one of the best restaurants in Tokyo. USDA Prime New York Strip, Peri-Peri rotisserie chicken, and New York cheesecake offer North Americans a taste of home 6700 miles away. Even the view, like the menu, reflects the cosmopolitan vibes of the Big Apple: the Tokyo skyline showcase from the 52nd floor will put you in an Emperor State of Mind.

L’Effervescence

LEffervescence restaurant Housemade caviar fugu roe sasanishiki risotto Risotto sasanishiki caviar laitance de fugu, Tokyo, Japan

Photo credit: @leffervescence

Of the many French Michelin starred restaurants within Japan, few rival the cuisine L’Effervescence is known for. Three Michelin stars and one Michelin green star make it one of the most distinguished Michelin restaurants on the planet. Chef Shinobu Namae trained under Bras and Blumenthal, two chefs who know a thing or two about hanging onto Michelin stars for the long haul. Settle in for a night of fine dining and immediately receive a list of ingredients sourced exclusively from Japan from artisan producers. French and Japanese culinary techniques are blended into elegant creations like the La Mer, a combination of sea urchin, porcini mushrooms, and truffles. 

Beauty and elegance beyond the table: Admire Japanese Geisha in Kyoto

Sazenka

Sazenka restaurant, firefly squid cured in Shaoxing Rice wine

Photo credit: @sazekna

Bringing mainland Asian inspiration to create Chinese-Japanese fusion dishes, Sazenka is the only Chinese restaurant across the globe with three Michelin stars. Chef Tomoya Kawada inspires all other Japanese Michelin star chefs to look beyond their borders and into ancient Japan’s history of Chinese cultural exchange. Kawada’s new Chinese cuisine infused with Japanese spirit is evident in Qingtang soup, sudachi, and the hot teas representing both countries.

Tapas Molecular Bar

Caviar doughnuts and BBQ kenmi chicken cigar, tapas molecular bar, Tokyo

Photo credit: @mo_tokyo

Another luxury Japanese dining experience that’s easy to miss if your eyes aren’t focused, the Tapas Molecular Bar offers an intimate gastronomic adventure within the Mandarin Oriental hotel. Tradition is all but abandoned in favor of an ultra-modern approach using science to cultivate an imaginative, sensory encounter. Leave your conventional concepts behind and instead bring an open mind and an open mouth for donuts made with caviar, a BBQ kenmi chicken “cigar”, and a lobster bourguignon made with coral. 

Tending to nature: Meet the Japanese cherry blossom doctors

Ukai-tei

Ukai-tei restaurant front doors, Tokyo, Japan

Photo credit: @ginzaukatei

Private rooms, each with a dedicated chef, is why it’s impossible to walk through Ginza without securing dinner reservations at Ukai-tei. We’re not sure which is more mesmerizing: Ukai-tei’s opulent art-nouveau decor that nearly classifies it as a museum or the French-inspired teppanyaki dishes with Japanese Black Beef as its focal point. Seasonal produce is flown in from around the world, ensuring that every ingredient’s taste is as poignant and pronounced as the antique furniture surrounding you.

Tsuta

Soba noodle ramen with chilled tomato soup, Tsuta, Tokyo, Japan

Photo credit: @tsutajapanofficial

You’re not visiting Tokyo without having at least a single bowl of Ramen. And if a single bowl is all that you have time for, make sure it’s from Tsuta – the-world’s first Japanese Michelin star Ramen shop. Chef Yuki Onishi’s Japanese soba noodles shop is known for its soy sauce Ramen, though you can’t go wrong ordering to your palate’s preference. The A5 Wagyu raw egg rice bowl with sabayon sauce and black truffle is as savory as the vanilla ice cream with balsamic truffle cream is delectable. And, perhaps most importantly for some groups, a special vegan noodle bowl lets discerning diners enjoy meat-free Michelin meals at a luxury Japanese restaurant.  

Reward your curiosity with flavors found only on this archipelago on Luxury Gold’s Majestic Japan tour. This 11-day guided journey includes culinary-focused highlights like a lunch with a Geisha performance in Kyoto, Donburi street food tasting in Osaka, and a private sushi-making class in Tokyo. Plus, you’ll have free time to discover the Michelin starred restaurants Japan is renowned for. 

Which restaurant in Tokyo’s fine dining scene is at the top of your list? Let us know in the comments.

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Luxury Journeys, USA and Canada

Natural Charm: Why Fall is the Best Time to Visit Eastern Canada

June 15, 2023 by Luxury Gold No Comments

As leaves transform into a vibrant tapestry of reds and golds in the fall, and a crispness fills the air, Eastern Canada unveils its hidden charm. Tourist crowds disperse, allowing visitors to explore the region’s charming towns, historic sites and national parks at a leisurely pace. If you’re looking for the ultimate fall vacation – stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, breathtaking scenic drives and exceptional cuisine awaits.

For travel inspiration: Canada destination guide

Resplendent colors of the Niagara Range

Image of bright crimson and gold leaves in the foreground with a cascading river behind in Eastern Canada

Crimson, copper, mahogany and burgundy. During the fall, one of the most remarkable spectacles in Eastern Canada is the vibrant display of color enveloping the landscape. In particular, the Niagara Range with its towering cliffs, thundering waterfalls and charming towns becomes a haven for luxury travelers seeking a visual feast.

The fiery reds, burnt oranges and golden yellows of the changing foliage create a breathtaking backdrop for scenic hikes, leisurely drives and unforgettable photo opportunities. And witnessing the cascading waters of Niagara Falls framed by nature’s vibrant palette is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Discover this on: Indulgence in Eastern Canada

Seasonal culinary delights

Image of a Play Food & Wine dish: red fermented pear garnished with colourful salad and pink radishes

@playfoodwine

A highlight of fall travel is the abundance of seasonal produce and thriving farm-to-table culinary scene that makes Eastern Canada even more of a gastronomic paradise at this time of year. Indulge your taste buds with exquisite dishes prepared using locally sourced ingredients, including the region’s famous apples, pumpkins, and of course, maple syrup.

 Travel with Luxury Gold and indulge in a four-course dinner at the acclaimed Play Food & Wine in Ottawa. The menu emphasizes a shared dining experience, allowing guests to sample a variety of dishes inspired by global flavors. Its small plates of fresh food utilize local, sustainable and seasonal products sourced by farmers and foragers. Enjoy a fine vintage from their extensive wine list, bask in the warmth of the fireplace and sample a wide array of delicious dishes. A unique, modern and cozy culinary experience.

Offering quintessential First Nations gastronomy to visitors in the historic district of Quebec City, Sagamité restaurant treats you to meals that are both gourmet feast and cultural experience. Over Flaming Yatista prepared tableside, discover how important fire is to the First Nations. Tracing the path of Indigenous cuisine, warm up with a traditional soup, enjoy main dishes of seafood, game meat or pasta, and finish with a decadent dessert.

These two fine eateries are highlights of the exceptional dining that awaits you on Indulgence in Eastern Canada.

You may be interested to read: Where to Experience the Best Fall Foliage

Savor the grape harvest

Image of grapes and leaves on vines, in red, yellow and green fall colors

Niagara is the best-known wine region in Canada, growing more than 30 grape varieties at over 60 wineries, and is responsible for the majority of Canada’s wine. One of the best places to go in October, in the fall the grape harvest is a bountiful and vibrant time to explore the regions vineyards and vintages, with many harvest festivals taking place.

We invite you to enjoy the crisp air and falling leaves while sipping some of the country’s finest vintages on a VIP tour and wine tasting at Château des Charmes. You’ll be welcomed with a limited production rosé sparkling wine, followed by a tour and tasting of wines from St. David’s Bench Vineyard, accompanied by hand-made local ice cream and local fruit.

You might also enjoy: Slow and sustainable: The expectations of the luxury traveler in 2023 and beyond

The thrill of the Salmon Run

Image of two salmon leaping upstream in ruching waters, Eastern Canada

Eastern Canada’s salmon run is a remarkable natural phenomenon that attracts fishing enthusiasts and nature lovers from around the world. This annual migration of salmon is a dazzling display of determination, as these majestic fish navigate their way back to their spawning grounds.

Primarily involving Atlantic salmon, these fish spend most of their adult lives in the ocean. However, once a year, they swim upstream against strong currents to return to their natal freshwater rivers and streams to spawn. As they migrate, they also go through physical transformations, developing vibrant colors and pronounced features.

Take time out at Eastern Canada’s numerous rivers to witness this marvel and gain a deeper appreciation for the delicate balance of nature. For visitors who prefer to observe the salmon run without fishing, there are often designated viewing areas, enabling you to witness the spectacle while minimizing disturbances to the fish.

You might be interested to read: Why a Luxury Gold Tour is Perfect for Families with Grown-up Children

Treat yourself to exceptional hotels

Image of Fairmont Chateau Laurier hotel with red and gold maple leaves in the foreground

@fairmontlaurier

Fairmont Château Laurier, Ottawa. In the fall, Ottawa transforms into a stunning display of vibrant autumn colors and the Fairmont Château Laurier, situated in the heart of downtown, provides a perfect vantage point to admire fall foliage. A historic landmark hotel known for its grand architecture and luxurious amenities, the hotel’s strategic location allows guests to easily explore nearby parks and gardens, such as Major’s Hill Park and Rideau Canal, where you can immerse yourself in the beauty of the changing leaves.

Enjoy fine dining, exceptional service, and some of the suites and rooms at Fairmont Château Laurier are equipped with fireplaces, offering a cozy and inviting atmosphere for guests to enjoy.

Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, Quebec City. Perched atop the picturesque cliffs of Old Quebec, the iconic Fairmont Le Château Frontenac is renowned for its breathtaking views and rich history. The hotel features luxurious rooms and suites, treating guests to a cozy ambiance while enjoying the charm of the city.

Opulent interiors provide a warm and atmosphere, while its grand halls and elegant rooms exude a sense of timeless beauty. Guests can savor the flavors of fall with seasonal culinary delights offered at the hotel’s restaurants. Additionally, the hotel’s central location allows easy access to the city’s fall festivals, events, and the beauty of the surrounding landscapes.

You may enjoy reading: 7 Luxury Gold hotels that have hosted royals, celebrities and more

One of the world’s most exquisite fall getaways, enjoy the ultimate luxury vacation with Indulgence in Eastern Canada.

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Asia

Golden Moments in the Golden City: What Awaits Luxury Gold Guests in Jaisalmer

June 12, 2023 by Luxury Gold No Comments

In India’s royal state of Rajasthan, Jaisalmer rises like a city of gold from the Thar Desert. In fact it’s the forts, Jain temples and palaces carved from the distinctive yellow sandstone that give Jaisalmer its nickname as ‘the Golden City’.

As part of our Imperial Rajasthan tour, you’ll spend two unforgettable nights in Jaisalmer packed with exceptional one-off experiences. From a guided excursion to a local farmers’ market, to dining under the stars while listening to live local musicians – here’s what awaits you in India’s Golden City

Jaisalmer Fort

On your second day in Jaisalmer, your Travel Concierge will take you to the astounding Jaisalmer Fort. Looming over the city from its perch on Meru Hill, this sprawling sandstone citadel is home to a quarter of Jaisalmer’s population – mostly made of descendants of the royal Brahmin and Rajput families who once lived here. It houses the Royal Palace (Raj Mahal) as well as seven extraordinary Jain temples, all intricately carved out of the same golden sandstone.

Explore the narrow alleyways, exquisitely decorated temples and climb to the walls of the fort for sweeping views over the city of Jaisalmer and the shimmering Thar Desert stretching to the horizon.

Aerial image of Jaisalmer (the Golden City's) Jaisalmer Fort at sunset

Experience it: Imperial Rajasthan

We Think You’ll Enjoy: Step Inside the Most Unique Luxury Retreats in India 

Gardisar Lake

Rajasthan is a place of magic made real, of palaces, temples and cities that glow like rose gold in the pink light of sunset. Gardisar Lake is among the finest sights in the state, let alone in Jaisalmer itself – and after a visit here, it’s not hard to see how the Golden City got its name.  This man-made lake, originally created in the 12th Century by King Rawal Jaisal, is surrounded by intricately decorated little chhatri pavilions and shrines to Hindu gods and goddesses.

Fed by the Indira Gandhi Canal, it’s a serene, mirror-like oasis in the heart of this desert city. It’s especially beautiful at sunset, when the amber light creates a sequin effect on the water, and the yellow sandstone chhatris and shrines cast golden reflections.

Image of the 'floating' pavillions at Lake Gardisar

We Think You’ll Enjoy: Walking With the King of the Big Cats in India’s Royal Hunting Grounds 

Jaisalmer local markets

Even in 21st Century Jaisalmer, local markets remain the lifeblood of the city – especially within the gold walls of Jaisalmer Fort. As part of your exploration with your Travel Concierge, you’ll visit one of these local markets – and in so doing, get a glimpse into the timeless way of life that still thrives in the Golden City.

Although Jaisalmer is a desert city, season-dependent you’ll find traders selling bundles of fruits, vegetables, herbs and spices, arranged in colorful piles. You’ll also find hand-crafted leather goods, brightly-colored dresses and scarves, and handmade novelty items such as wooden puppets. Supported by your Travel Concierge at all times, this is a perfect opportunity to pick up a unique souvenir to bring back home with you.

Image of Luxury Gold guests visiting a local market in Rajasthan

We Think You’ll Enjoy: Uncovering India’s Cultural Riches, With Acclaimed Historian Rana Safvi 

Sunset dinner with local musicians

Music is a vital part of Rajasthan’s cultural identity – its desert folk songs have been recited for centuries, passed on from generation to generation largely unchanged. There are several musical instruments that are only likely to be found within Rajasthan – including the 17-stringed kamaicha and the dholak drum.

You’ll get an opportunity to experience the distinctive and evocative sounds of Rajasthan’s desert folk music at an exclusive sunset banquet. As the sun sets over the towering sand dunes of the Thar Desert, you’ll dine on traditional – but elevated – nomadic dishes, watching the stars slowly appear in the night sky above you and listening to the music that has characterised this part of India for as long as anyone can remember. It’s a truly timeless experience that will leave you feeling even more in love with this country than before.

Image of a group of guests being served food by a man wearing a bright orange turban

When you journey with Luxury Gold, you’ll not only enjoy a timeless travel experience, but unique moments that you won’t find elsewhere. In Rajasthan – and Jaisalmer in particular – you’ll find a way of life largely unchanged for centuries. Join us for an exceptional journey, furnished with fine dining, five-star hotel stays, and rich cultural experiences that will leave a lasting impression.

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We invite you to embark on a travel experience unlike any other. Join us as we explore exotic lands and distinctive destinations, in exquisite style and comfort. At Luxury Gold, it’s our pleasure to make your next journey extraordinary. Allow us to share our unparalleled wealth of expertise and insights, accumulated over nearly 100 years as leaders in luxury travel.
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