Top 5 dining that touches your soul

Some places touch your soul with the views or just a dish done right…. these should be the must-try on your list.

Juniper At Anantara Jebel Akhdar, Oman

Located at 2000 metres above sea level, and stunningly alighted on the brink of a valley, it is a must-visit both for its gallant design and for the chance to discover a once clandestine spot of Oman. Frankincense burns in the gigantic lobby where cheery staff and a welcome tray of Omani coffee and dates anticipate. Juniper restaurant offers the chance to dine inside and al fresco as the climate allows. Outside, you can appreciate wonderful views alongside the antiquated, craggy mountains, with a 600-metredeep abyss underneath. At night the outside tables are fringed with lit-up rills and cascades. On the menu are Arabic and global dishes, with good Moroccan tagines. Everything is extraordinary, but nature is the true star here.

Sal At Burj Al Arab, Dubai
This beachfront restaurant is redolent of the unblemished azure waters of the Iberian Peninsula. On offer are dishes from all athwart southwestern Europe. The food is nutritious and the service too is unswervingly pleasant, making it the epitome food spot in Dubai. You cannot leave without trying the Spicy Rigatoni Manchego, cooked to perfection, and it appears as if an Italian granny has put out all her love in this dish.You definitely have to try the Truffle Pizza, nice and crunchy, topped with salacious mozzarella, seasonal truffles and fior di lattec. decadent to the core.


Casa De Valencia, Madrid, Spain

When you try Paella at several restaurants, you quickly comprehend that this one-pot dish is enriched by appreciating it the old-fashioned way. If you want to try the traditional Valencian paella, Casa de Valencia is the best place in Madrid. Originating in 1975 is a classic for lovers of Mediterranean recipes. Don't go anticipating a vogueish place-you go here for the food!

Pialligo Estate, Canberra, Australia

Variably, this scenic hideaway is actually only a few minutes from Town, and nearby to the airport, though you can certainly not predict from the air of this riverfront estate starring a vineyard, market garden, olive grove, an orchard and its own smokehouse and restaurant. The makings compliment the taste buds, while the presentation is as attractive to the eye as it is to the palate and behind the acquainted flavours are the freshest ingredients. Sit back over a comfortable lunch and grasp the view over paddocks to Parliament House and Telstra Tower.

Babel At Hyatt Regency Zurich The Circle, Switzerland
The first hotel under the Hyatt Regency brand in Switzerland and its trump card is the location; two minutes walk from the Airport and easy train rides away to make day trips to either Zurich or beautiful locations. Just download the SBB App and you are sorted. Restaurant Babel which also has a gorgeous alfresco and an open kitchen dishes up a virtuous array of Persian, Arabic, Moroccan, Israeli and Turkish-influenced Middle Eastern cuisine. It's best to choose several selections to share - do try the appetisingly velvety hummus and don't miss the Falafel. Breakfast is a satiating banquet of hot and cold options, including eggs to order, baked stuff, and the works.

Rupali Dean is a food & travel writer based out of Delhi