Stars in exceptional places: 5 Michelin restaurants on remarkable spots

Some Michelin-starred restaurants distinguish themselves not only by their cuisine but also by their exceptional locations. From a submerged dining room to a historic castle high in the mountains, these five destinations combine refined gastronomy with surroundings that elevate the experience to a whole new level. 

Under | Lindesnes, Norway

On the southern coast of Norway, partially submerged in the North Sea, lies Under: the world's largest undersea restaurant, awarded one Michelin star. Five and a half meters below the surface, a panoramic glass wall offers views of mackerel, cod, and sometimes even a seal. The sleek, robust design by the architectural firm Snøhetta evokes a combination of art installation and maritime observatory.

Chef Nicolai Ellitsgaard creates a seasonal menu using local produce, from shellfish and fish to wild herbs from the dunes. 

Schloss Schauenstein | Fürstenau, Switzerland

Schloss Schauenstein is the domain of chef Andreas Caminada, who serves his three-star cuisine in a historic castle. His kitchen sources almost everything locally, with vegetables and herbs partly grown in his own garden. Some creations have achieved iconic status, such as the "2003 veal tortellini with nut butter foam."

Surrounded by the Graubünden mountain landscape at the foot of the Piz Beverin, the castle provides an intimate setting where alpine charm and refined gastronomy come together.

Malga Panna | Moena, Italy

In the heart of the Dolomites, just outside the mountain village of Moena, you'll find Malga Panna, a Michelin-starred restaurant with a view that changes with each season. In summer, green alpine meadows stretch to the horizon, while in winter, a silent blanket of snow blankets the landscape.

Chef Paolo Donei cooks with what the mountains offer: venison from the woods, herbs from the mountainsides, and mushrooms from the shady valleys. His dishes follow the rhythm of nature and bring the flavors of Trentino to the table in a pure and honest way.

The Samling | Lake District, United Kingdom

High on a hill, with Lake Windermere at its feet, lies The Samling: a charming country house with a Michelin star. Even the drive there, along narrow roads past hills and forests, feels like a little journey of discovery. Inside, a warm welcome awaits, while outside, the view stretches endlessly across the lake and mountains.

Chef Robby Jenks is guided by the seasons. Vegetables and herbs are sourced from his own greenhouse and gardens, mushrooms from the surrounding forests, and what can't be found there, he sources from the UK's best producers. The dishes are brightly flavored and seamlessly blend with the landscape.

Hiša Franko | Kobarid, Slovenia

Hiša Franko is a restaurant where nature and tradition merge in a kitchen that relies entirely on the surrounding community. Chef Ana Roš, awarded three Michelin stars and a green star, works closely with hunters, shepherds, fishermen, and cheesemakers who practice their trade high in the mountains, just as generations before them did.

The menu builds on the flavours that have been present in the Soča Valley for centuries: dairy and meat form the basis, with cheeses, curds and butter from mountain farms, and daily fresh trout, venison, goat, forest fruits and wild herbs taken straight from nature.