Culinary Chronicles: Dining in the Deep Blue Sea

Our last culinary adventure took place in the clouds. Not to be out won, we now dive into the sea for a dining experience unfolding beneath the waves. Imagine being surrounded by vibrant coral reefs, mesmerizing marine life, and the gentle sway of the ocean. Let’s explore restaurants that offer a truly immersive experience beneath the sea – or at least within a sea-like environment.

Stop 1: Aquarium Restaurant – Nashville, Tennessee

Channel your inner mermaid! Guests are seated around a 200,000- gallon aquarium filled to the gills with tropical fish from the Caribbean Sea, Hawaii, South Pacific and Indian Ocean. Children and adults alike love the view while dining on fresh seafood, steaks and more.

Stop 1. Ithaa Undersea Restaurant – Rangali Island, Maldives

Five meters below the surface of the Indian Ocean, Ithaa at the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island is the epitome of underwater luxury. With its transparent acrylic walls, diners are surrounded by colorful marine life that inspires the senses, all while savoring a delectable menu featuring Maldivian and Western fusion cuisine.

Stop 2. Subsix – Niyama Private Islands, Maldives

Another gem in the Maldives, Subsix is an underwater playground that transforms from a chic lounge during the day to an intimate underwater restaurant at night. Guests enjoy contemporary cuisine surrounded by the azure waters of the Indian Ocean. For the experience of a lifetime, request a private Champagne breakfast.

Stop 3. Al Mahara – Al Mahara, Burj Al Arab, Dubai

Translated as “The Oyster” in Arabic, Al Mahara at Burj Al Arab in Dubai offers culinary magic and flavors of the sea. Surrounded by a massive aquarium. Diners enjoy a seafood-centric menu while being captivated by the marine life, which includes an impressive array of sharks and rays.

Stop 4. Ossiano – Atlantis, The Palm, Dubai

Dubai continues to amaze with Ossiano, a Michelin-starred restaurant situated in the iconic Atlantis, The Palm resort. Savor Mediterranean seafood surrounded by floor-to-ceiling views into the Ambassador Lagoon.

Stop 5. Under – Lindesnes, Norway

Touted as the world’s largest underwater restaurant, Under was designed with a sensitive consideration for it’s aquatic marine neighbors, serving as an artificial reef for limpets and kelp. The restaurant is half-sunken in the icy surrounding waters, providing a rare look at the North Atlantic Ocean residents. The menu is determined by the season, with dishes based on what nature is providing and ready to serve.

Stop 7: Cargo Hold – Durban, South Africa

Situated in the helm of a shipwreck replica called Phantom Ship, Cargo Hold is part of the Ushaka Marine World, the largest aquarium in Africa. The menu features fresh KwaZulu Natal’s local offerings ans well as flavors from around the world. It’s a unique and sophisticated experience amongst sharks and shipwrecks.

Dining under the sea is not just about the food; it’s a journey into a surreal world where the wonders of the ocean become guest’s dining companions. For meeting planners seeking an extraordinary dining experience for attendees, the deep blue awaits with open arms and a feast for the senses.