Beyond Room Service: How Hotel Restaurants Are Becoming Culinary Destinations

Beyond Room Service: How Hotel Restaurants are becoming Culinary Destinations In 2025, luxury hospitality is witnessing a

Beyond Room Service: How Hotel Restaurants are becoming Culinary Destinations

In 2025, luxury hospitality is witnessing a dynamic shift as hotel restaurants emerge as premier dining destinations in their own right. As travellers seek more than just accommodation, these culinary havens are setting new standards in gastronomy, blending innovation, authenticity, and a true sense of place.

UK & Ireland*

A Rhubarb Renaissance at Prestonfield House, Edinburgh

Found within one of Edinburgh’s most magnificent historic estates, Prestonfield House‘sRhubarb Restaurant is transforming Scotland’s luxury dining landscape. This opulent establishment, the centrepiece in James Thomson’s restaurant collection, is rapidly emerging as a must-visit destination in its own regard, where centuries of heritage meet contemporary gastronomy.

At the helm, Chef John McMahon comments on the quiet revolution in Scottish fine dining,“We’re seeing guests choose to stay with us not just for our luxurious accommodation, but specifically for the exceptional culinary experience at Rhubarb. Our rich history and timeless stories are woven into every aspect of what we do, and maintaining this legacy drives our constant innovation.”

What sets Rhubarb apart is its remarkable connection to its namesake ingredient. In the 18th century, Prestonfield Estate pioneered rhubarb cultivation in Scotland, a legacy that continues to flourish in the restaurant’s kitchen gardens today. Estate-grown rhubarb features prominently across both sweet and savoury dishes, whilst seasonal Scottish ingredients from carefully selected artisan producers take centre stage.

HOW: Rhubarb Restaurant is open all day every day from 12 noon – 10:00 pm (last reservation). To book a table please visit https://www.prestonfield.com/eat-drink/rhubarb-restaurant/. Room rates for Prestonfield House start from £375 per room, per night and include breakfast, for more information please visit https://www.prestonfield.com/

Revealing The Azalea, by Glenapp Castle: A Fresh Take on Seasonal & Scottish Dining

Glenapp Castle, a luxurious 21-bedroom, PoB and Relais & Châteaux hotel is preparing for the highly anticipated opening of its second restaurant, The Azalea, by Glenapp Castle in May 2025. Set to cement the Castle’s status as a global destination for culinary excellence, complementing its renowned private dining restaurant, a holder of 3 AA Rosettes. Positioned near the stunning Ayrshire coast in Scotland, this new dining experience is located within the Walled Garden of the estate’s historic Victorian Glasshouse and Bothy, which dates back to 1832, its stunning glass structure will seamlessly blend indoors and out, offering a living horticultural dining experience for guests year-round.

Led by Executive Chef Peter Howarth, sustainability is at the core, with a “garden-to-plate” ethos that highlights produce from the Castle’s gardens and locally sourced ingredients. Approximately 80% of the menu’s herbs, including curry plants, marigold leaves, and rhubarb, are grown on the doorstep of the restaurant.

Executive Chef Peter Howarth says: “The Azalea, by Glenapp Castle, will offer a truly exceptional dining experience where atmosphere meets outstanding cuisine. Our seed-to-table approach highlights the finest locally sourced ingredients, such as lobster from the nearby coastal town of Troon, Aberdeen Angus beef, and estate-grown vegetables. By focusing on ingredients surrounding areas, we bring the authentic taste of Scotland to every guest; the menu is also perfectly complemented by cocktails made with fresh herbs from our garden.”

The Scottish landscape plays a key role in the setting, with the UNESCO-protected dark skies inviting the outdoors in through the glass, creating a seamless indoor and outdoor dining experience.

HOW: Starters at The Azalea, by Glenapp Castle begin at £15, Mains at £28 and Desserts at £15. Guests can stay in one of Glenapp Castle’s Garden View Suites from £622.00 for two people on a B&B basis. For more information visit www.glenappcastle.com / 01465 831212

Read our review

GLENAPP CASTLE, ONLY A FEW MILES FROM HOME BUT A MILLION MILES AWAY

Penmaenuchaf Welcomes Dan Andree: A Fresh Chapter in Culinary Excellence

Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Eryi National Park in the heart of Snowdonia,Penmaenuchaf has redefined Welsh cuisine, offering a dining experience that truly celebrates the region’s rich culinary heritage. With a passionate team of chefs and a menu deeply inspired by local producers, the restaurant places Welsh ingredients at the forefront, ensuring that every dish tells the story of the surrounding terrain.

The recent appointment of Dan Andree as the new Head Chef, has marked an exciting chapter for the hotel. Having worked alongside Hywel Griffith at Seren’s Michelin-starred Beach House, Dan brings a wealth of expertise and dedication to creating innovative menus that honour local producers and embrace sustainable, high-quality ingredients. The menu features beautifully crafted dishes such as venison with beetroot, duck liver and verjus, trout with horseradish and foraged coastal herbs, and an exquisite selection of Welsh cheeses to complete the experience. With every plate, Penmaenuchaf offers a true taste of Wales, ensuring that the dining experience is as memorable as the setting itself.

HOW: Stays at Penmaenuchaf start from £230 on a B&B basis. To book a table please click here. The three-course à la carte menu starts at £76 per person. For more information or to book, please visit https://penmaenuchaf.co.uk

Discover the New Refurbishment and Seasonal Menu at The Dining Room at Seaham Hall

The award-winning five-star restaurant at Seaham Hall, The Dining Room, is proud to unveil its stunning new refurbishment alongside an exciting seasonal menu, new for 2025, offering guests an unforgettable dining experience. Perched high above the rugged North Sea in County Durham, The Dining Room boasts unrivalled access to the finest local ingredients and fresh seafood from the surrounding region, blending old-world elegance with modern sophistication, providing the perfect backdrop for guests to enjoy exceptional cuisine.

Executive Chef Damian Broom has crafted a menu that celebrates the very best of the North East, with dishes featuring locally sourced ingredients from hand-picked suppliers, including nearby honey farms and sustainable seafood providers. With a focus on communal dining, the menu offers a variety of small and large shared plates that showcase the region’s unique flavours. Highlights of the new menu include Organic Burrata with basil pesto, Centanari olive oil, and grilled focaccia; Wild Prawns ‘Pil Pil’; and Chargrilled Cumbrian Texel Lamb Cutlets with salsa verde and Amalfi lemon. These dishes embody the richness of Durham’s dining scene, making each meal an experience to remember.

The Dining Room’s newly refurbished interior features glittering 14-carat gold-plated chandeliers and gorgeous Georgian windows, creating a refined yet relaxed atmosphere for guests to enjoy their meal. Whether it’s an intimate dinner for two or a special celebration, The Dining Room provides the ideal setting.

HOW: For further information about The Dining Room at Seaham Hall, along with menu prices please visit here. Room rates at Seaham Hall start from £299 in a Junior Suite. For more information on booking please visit the website here.

Seasons, Wine, and Culinary Artistry Converge at The Vineyard, Berkshire

The Vineyard, long celebrated for its world-class cuisine and extraordinary 30,000-bottle wine collection, has unveiled its most ambitious culinary venture to date. The Tasting Room represents a bold evolution in fine dining, where exceptional food, remarkable wine, and seasonal rhythms create an unparalleled gastronomic journey.

At its helm stands Executive Chef Tom Scade, whose innovative vision has transformed the space into an immersive theatre of the senses: “Indeed, the hotel restaurant renaissance has been evident in the habits of our diners in recent months, we have noticed a desire for utilising and embracing seasonal produce, as well as an increased demand for wine pairing and immersive dining experiences – it’s clear that diners are searching for restaurants that go above and beyond, it’s now not just a meal, but a journey that connects guests to the land, the wine, and the essence of the season.”

The Tasting Room’s menus unfold like nature’s calendar, with each dish capturing the essence of the moment. Winter brings warming aromas of orange, cinnamon, and clove, whilst summer celebrates flame-grilled flavours and the sweetness of sun-ripened strawberries. Sustainability stands at the heart of Scade’s philosophy. Working in close partnership with local producers, he weaves homegrown ingredients into his menus, ensuring each dish not only delights the palate but also honours environmental responsibility. The restaurant’s extraordinary wine programme perfectly completes the experience.

HOW: The Vineyard Restaurant is open for lunch 12:30 pm-2:30pm and dinner 6:30 pm-8:30 pm daily, to book please visit here. The Tasting Room is open Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays for dinner and Fridays and Saturdays for lunch. With only 28 settings per evening, booking is essential, please visit here to book. Prices start from £99pp for 5 courses, with paired wines for an additional £75pp. For more information, please visit https://www.the-vineyard.co.uk/eat/the-tasting-room/

Five Decades of Theatrical Dining in Edinburgh’s Royal Mile at The Witchery

In the heart of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, The Witchery stands as a testament to timeless hospitality. Now in its fifth decade, this legendary establishment has evolved from a remarkable restaurant into an iconic dining destination that draws guests from across the globe. Its two distinct dining spaces, the original oak-panelled Dining Room and the enchanting Secret Garden offer more than meals; they present theatrical dining experiences amidst one of Scotland’s most spellbinding settings.

Chef Douglas Roberts reflects on this evolution: “The Witchery has always been renowned as a standout dining destination in Edinburgh, but we’re seeing a remarkable shift: it’s our exceptional culinary offerings at The Secret Garden Dining Room and The Original Dining Room that are driving both bookings and overnight stays. Modern travellers are seeking more than just a meal, they want an unforgettable dining experience, just steps from their room, while still enjoying the refinement of a world-class restaurant. Under the flicker of candlelight, each dish at The Witchery tells a story of Scottish heritage and innovation, prepared with passionate attention to detail that has become our hallmark.”

Within these dramatic surroundings, where hand-painted ceilings and candlelit corners create an atmosphere of baroque splendour, Roberts’ menu celebrates Scotland’s remarkable natural larder. From the game-rich highlands of Perthshire to the pristine waters of the West Coast, each ingredient is carefully selected to showcase the country’s finest produce. The kitchen pays particular homage to the Border region’s exceptional beef, while fresh seafood from East Lothian graces the menu daily.

HOW: The Witchery is open all day from 12-10.30 pm, seven days a week, to book a table please visit https://www.thewitchery.com/dine/. Room rates at The Witchery start from £575 per room, per night and include breakfast. For more information, please visithttps://www.thewitchery.com/

HRISHI’s Table at Farlam Hall: The Hottest New Destination for Michelin-Star Dining

A new chapter in fine dining has begun at Farlam Hall, a Relais & Châteaux and PoB Hotel, with the launch of HRISHI’s Table, an exclusive Chef’s Table experience created by Michelin StarChef Patron Hrishi Desai. Located within the scenic Cumbrian countryside at Farlam Hall, this dining experience offers guests a unique opportunity to enjoy a truly special culinary journey. Diners of HRISHI’s Table are led through a delicious 12 to 14 course tasting menu filled with bold flavours. The team, or the ‘storytellers’ share insights into the inspiration behind each course, beginning with a Champagne reception courtesy of Taittinger, its new official supporter.

Chef Patron, Hrishi Desai explains, “Farlam Hall has always stood for exceptional food, exquisite wines, and unparalleled hospitality, underpinned by a commitment to wellness, sustainability and indulgence. With this ethos in mind, the introduction of HRISHI’s Table felt like a natural evolution, offering a bespoke dining experience that elevates the connection between guests and gastronomy.”

This private dining experience is the latest addition to an exceptional string of culinary offerings at Farlam Hall, including the Michelin-starred Cedar Tree restaurant and the classic, flavour-packed dishes served at Bistro Enkel.

HOW: Reservations for HRISHI’s Table are now available here. The Non-Residential Package for Private Dining is priced at £3,250 for 10 guests, and the Premier Residential Package for Private Dining for 10 guests is priced at £5,500 for a one-night stay. To check package availability, please speak to a member of the team on 01697 746234 or emailfarlam@farlamhall.com. For more information, please visit https://farlamhall.com

*International*

ION Harbour by Simon Rogan: Malta’s first & only two Michelin-Starred Restaurant

In the heart of Valletta’s historic waterfront, ION Harbour by Simon Rogan stands as Malta’s culinary centrepiece. As the first and only restaurant in the nation’s history to earn two Michelin stars, this exceptional venue has transformed from an ambitious vision into a world-class dining destination. Perched on the fourth floor of the luxurious Iniala Harbour House, it offers guests breathtaking vistas of the iconic Grand Harbour and the Three Cities, Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua, creating an unforgettable backdrop for extraordinary dining.

Chef Simon Rogan, ION Harbour at Iniala Harbour House, comments: “From speaking to our guests at ION Harbour, we’re aware that they’ve planned their entire trip to the island around securing a table at the restaurant which is really lovely to hear. The two Michelin stars have certainly played a part in attracting visitors from all over the world. Our deep connection with Malta’s finest artisanal producers and farmers from both Malta and Gozo allows us to craft dishes that capture the essence of these Mediterranean islands. Each plate is a celebration of local flavours, telling a story of sun-drenched landscapes and pristine waters. We’re constantly pushing boundaries and refining our approach, ensuring that every visit to ION Harbour reveals something new and extraordinary.”

Within this elevated setting, where floor-to-ceiling windows frame the sparkling Mediterranean waters, Rogan and Executive Chef Oli Marlow bring their celebrated farm-to-table philosophy to Maltese shores. Combined with innovative cocktails, an extensive wine list, and impeccable service, ION Harbour offers more than a meal; it presents a defining moment in Malta’s culinary evolution.

HOW: ION Harbour is open for dinner Mon-Sun from 6:30pm-8:30pm, and Fridays for lunch 12:30pm-2pm, to book a table please visit https://ionharbour.com/. Room rates at Iniala Harbour House Malta start from €400 (£341) per night for a double room on a B&B basis. For more information, please visit https://inialamalta.com/

Garden-to-Table Dining at Treville Positano Revolutionises Amalfi Coast Dining

Treville Positano, former home of acclaimed Italian film director Franco Zeffirelli and one of the world’s leading and most distinguished hotels, brings authentic farm-to-plate dining to the Amalfi Coast. At the heart of this ultra-luxurious oasis is Maestro’s, where Head Chef Vincenzo Castaldo champions hyperlocal sourcing, crafting seasonal menus from locally-sourced ingredients and the hotel’s own onsite gardens and farm. Situated on a picturesque, vine-covered terrace overlooking Positano, the restaurant works in tandem with the property’s innovative Aroma Lab, where botanicals harvested from the hotel’s own gardens are transformed into artisanal cocktails and culinary creations, offering guests an immersive taste of the Amalfi Coast’s natural bounty.

Vincenzo Castaldo, Maestro’s Head Chef says, “This year we are focusing on elevating the dining experience and connecting people with the destination. At Maestro’s, every dish tells a story. By sourcing ingredients from our onsite gardens and working with local farmers, we invite guests to discover the soul of Italian cuisine.”

HOW: For more information on Maestro’s please visit: https://villatreville.com/maestros-restaurant/. Room rates start from €830 per night. Direct flights are now available from London Gatwick to Salerno Airport. For more information, please visit https://villatreville.com/ .

Zero-Waste Fine Dining at The Montenotte Elevates Cork’s Culinary Scene

The Montenotte, Cork’s finest urban resort and one of the country’s leading hotels, is renowned for its unrivalled views and commitment to continuous innovation in crafting memorable guest experiences – and its signature restaurant, Panorama is no exception. Offering a dynamic, seasonal menu, refreshed bi-monthly, the menus feature innovative dishes such as hand-foraged ingredients and zero-waste culinary techniques, which showcase the best of local produce and Irish hospitality. Housed within an 18^th Century Merchant Prince’s residence, the hotel blends historic charm with contemporary elegance as well as the recently launched Woodland Suite Experience.

At Panorama the team strives for sustainably sourced ingredients for every dish. From the hand-churned herb butter crafted in-house, inspired by the butter merchants who originally resided at the property, to the signature Duck Fat Bread that ensures nothing goes to waste and locally foraged seaweed from the Atlantic coastline, the team honours tradition while crafting the future of dining at Panorama. Being named one of the Top 25 Restaurants to Watch in 2025 by the McKenna Guide is a testament to the team’s commitment to culinary excellence. Guests are invited to taste the difference that respect for the land, ingredients, and heritage makes.

HOW: For more information on Panorama please visit here. Opening times Mon – Fri 6:30 – 21:00 Sat – Sun 7:00 – 21:00. Room rates for The Montenotte start from $228 and include a complimentary breakfast, free parking, access to both Cameo Cinema (over 18s only) and The Motion Health Club. For more information, please visit https://www.themontenottehotel.com/.

Our Review of the Amazing The Montenotte Hotel

Traditional Tuscan Recipes at Giacomo al Salviatino

With its rich history and stunning landscape, the iconic 15th-century villa Il Salviatino in Florence is a beacon of luxury and authenticity following substantial investment, hidden away in 12 hectares of vibrant Italian gardens overlooking the infamous Duomo. The property also hosts the distinguished restaurant, Giacomo al Salviatino of the renowned Giacomo group in Milan, which epitomises authentic Italian cuisine, and masterfully blends simplicity and sophistication to curate delicious dishes.

Drawing on traditional Tuscan recipes, Giacomo al Salviatino offers a diverse array of dishes crafted from seasonal ingredients sourced from the villa’s organic garden, including aromatic herbs, fruits, and vegetables cultivated in the Third Paradise—a unique permaculture garden designed by Michelangelo Pistoletto. Dishes include Red Prawn Tartare with Mandarin Sorbet, Cacio Pepe Tortellini, and the traditional Bistecca alla Fiorentina. Guests can enjoy their meals with stunning views of Florence from the panoramic terrace or immerse themselves in the historic ambiance of Orangerie Sala Affresco, a space once enlivened by cultural luminaries such as Salvador Dalí and Gabriele D’Annunzio.

The Vineyard, Berkshire

HOW: For more information on Giacomo al Salviatino please visit here. For reservations call + 39 055 904 1111. Opening times Mon – Sun 12:00 – 14:30 | 19:00 – 23:00. Room rates at Il Salviatino start from €695 per night on a B&B basis. For more information, please visithttps://salviatino.com/en/.

A Culinary Trinity at Iniala Beach House

Along the pristine shores of Natai Beach, Iniala Beach House has emerged as Thailand’s newest culinary destination, offering three distinct dining experiences that each celebrate excellence in their unique way. Under the direction of acclaimed chef Simon Rogan, Aulis Phuket, earned a coveted Michelin star, within a year of opening. A testament to its innovative approach to hyper-local ingredients and commitment to creating unique dining experiences. The transformation of luxury hotel dining has been particularly evident in the property’s latest venture, with the opening of Anaalā Thailand.

Chef Ian Kittichai of Anaalā Thailand explains: “The transformation we’re seeing in luxury hotel dining has shaped our vision for culinary excellence at Iniala Beach House. Today’s guests are choosing their hotels based on their restaurants as much as accommodation, which inspired the addition of Anaalā Thailand, which opened in December 2024. At Anaalā, we’ve embraced this evolution by creating an experience that rivals the finest standalone restaurants while offering the unique advantage of our stunning beachfront setting. This shift has redefined our approach to hotel dining, we’re no longer just an amenity for hotel guests, but a destination that draws visitors specifically for our culinary offerings.”

Under Kittichai’s guidance, Anaalā Thailand reimagines beachside dining with sophisticated flair. Each day brings a new menu that celebrates the bounty of local waters and seasonal ingredients. Completing this culinary trinity is The Campana Lounge, where casual sophistication meets panoramic ocean views.

HOW: Aulis Phuket is open Tues- Sat for dinner, to book a table please visit here. Anaalā Thailand is open every day for dinner from 6:30pm-9:30pm, to book a table please visit here. The Campana Lounge is open every day for all-day dining, to book a table please visit, here. Room rates at Iniala Beach House Thailand start from $600 (£505) per night for a suite, $1,000 (£843) per night for a Pool Residence and $3,350 (£2,824) per night for the Villa (excluding tax and service charge). For more information, please visit https://www.inialathailand.com/