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Top 25 Hidden Gem Restaurants Worth Traveling For

by The OpenTable Team

Updated 11 September 2019

KAYAK and OpenTable found 25 local gems in popular destinations around the world that are worth checking out on your travels. Our research shows that 1 in 5 Americans are willing to travel for great culinary experiences - and we think these spots should be on your list. So dig in.

A photo of Alux Restaurante restaurant

Alux Restaurante

4.4

4.4 (2054)

MXN500 and over

Contemporary Mexican

Playa del Carmen / Riviera Maya

About the restaurant

Alux is a restaurant inside a natural cave. A unique place to enjoy a magical evening. The creation and formation of the cave is ancient. In this environment of true underground palaces decorated with unique stalactites and stalagmites you can enjoy a natural spectacle. With a capacity of more than 250 guests, our cavern has various environments designed for you to enjoy your stay to the fullest, all accompanied by our haute cuisine and mixology that distinguishes us in this region of the Riviera Maya.

Service only for dinners. À la carte service. Entry with reservation. Dress Code: Smart Casual. Kitchen closes at 11:00 pm. Payments are accepted with Cash, Credit and Debit Card AMEX, MasterCard and Visa. Children welcome. Smoking area. There is no corkage.

Minimum consumption $1,000.00 pesos per person.

Top review

J

Jean-MarieVIP

Dined 2 days ago

The price is elevated, but you are also paying the entrance to see the amazing extensive cave as well. Our food was wonderful, my filet mignon was fabulous. The mango ceviche was very good. The bone marrow veggie sauce was very good ,but there was very little bone marrow to accompany the sauce. For dessert we ordered the Banana flambee and the show prep was fun and we had the chocolate volcano with vanilla Ice cream - very good. The wine is extremely pricey and there is no byo/cork fee allowed, so no bottles from outside. If they lowered the wine price to normal restaurant prices, many more bottles would be consumed and guests wouldn't feel so overcharged. So in all, always a 'must' unique experience and great for first timers to Playa and for special occasions. And lastly, our waiter, Carlos, was top-notch.

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A photo of Salmon Tartar Alux of a restaurant

Salmon Tartar Alux

A photo of Xcatic Octopus of a restaurant

A photo of Fresh Oysters of a restaurant

A photo of Battista's Hole in the Wall restaurant

Battista's Hole in the Wall

4.7

4.7 (7974)

$31 to $50

Italian

The Strip

About the restaurant

Battista's Hole in the Wall is a local favorite serving Las Vegas since 1970. Immerse yourself with our old-time Las Vegas memorabilia and the finest authentic Italian food in a friendly, casual atmosphere. All dinners include Minestrone Soup or Italian Salad, Garlic Bread, Pasta Side, FREE House Wine (Red or White) with Dinner, and a Homemade Cappuccino for dessert. We're located just off the Strip at Flamingo and Linq Lane, across from The Horseshoe, and next to the Linq and High Roller Observation Wheel.
Dining Room Hours:
Sunday through Thursday, 4:30 pm to 9:30 pm
Friday and Saturday, 4:30 pm to 10 pm
Reservations by phone from 9 a.m. Pacific Time to 9 pm Pacific Time

Top review

R

Rhonda

Dined 2 days ago

We ate at Batistas twice in this week. We LOVED the amazing food, service was amazing, wait time was great and prices are so reasonable. It was our favorite of all the restaurants we ate at this week!

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A photo of Chicken Rio of a restaurant

A photo of Chicken Parmigiana of a restaurant

Chicken Parmigiana

A photo of Garlic Bread of a restaurant

A photo of Cafe Luxembourg restaurant

Cafe Luxembourg

4.8

4.8 (8703)

$31 to $50

French American

Upper West Side

About the restaurant

Delicious food and service. We came on a busy Sunday evening, but the service was spot on during our visit and food was delicious. We will come back!

Top review

F

frankVIP

Dined 2 days ago

We have been to cafe many times and the food service and quality is always the same - excellent

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A photo of French Onion Soup of a restaurant

French Onion Soup

A photo of Profiteroles of a restaurant

A photo of Frances restaurant

4.9

4.9 (3664)

$50 and over

Californian

Castro

About the restaurant

At Frances, chef Melissa Perello’s seasonal menu reflects modern California sensibilities and focuses on ingredients from local markets, farms and producers in a casual, neighborhood setting. Named after Chef Perello’s grandmother, Frances is an ode to refined but comfortable sensibilities in both food and decor. Whether it’s the technique-rich, yet simple approach to food, or the open, familiar atmosphere and stellar service, Frances' honest, focused approach has resonated with customers and critics alike.

Top review

V

VincentVIP

Dined 4 days ago

Great meal at Frances. Had 15th anniversary tasting menu, which was terrific. Awesome food, great wine list, cozy atmosphere. Sometimes a forgotten restaurant in a crowded SF scene but this place is outstanding

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A photo of Lumberjack Cake of a restaurant

Lumberjack Cake

A photo of Kale Salad of a restaurant

A photo of Valentine's Day of a restaurant

Valentine's Day

A photo of Gilda by Belgious restaurant

Gilda by Belgious

4.7

4.7 (189)

€31 to €50

Tapas / Small Plates

El Gòtic

About the restaurant

Authentic Spanish Tapas with a surprising Belgian Twist !
Come and join us to enjoy classic Belgian gastronomy, including the popular Steak Frites.... or indulge yourself with our unusual culinary creations like our Gilda bravas, Crispy Argentinian shrimps on curry ice-cream... and even a mouth-watering Belgian chocolate fondant with Canabis ice-cream ;-)
And as much as we care for the ingredients we use in the kitchen, we selected some amazing local wines, cava, cocktails and a the best Belgian beers.

Bon Appetit !

Top review

M

Manon

Dined on 2 Jan 2025

Great experience from the minute you walk in !! Particularly enjoyed the twist on ice cream , both starter & desserts.

A photo of Mamma Maria restaurant

4.8

4.8 (5520)

$31 to $50

Italian

North End

About the restaurant

More availability on our website. Our restaurant also offers unique private rooms for small parties starting at 4 people- email mammamariaboston@gmail.com to inquire.
----
Superior local and seasonal ingredients distinguish our Italian cuisine. Our menu is updated daily to reflect market changes. Our setting is historical and unique. Five elegant dining rooms ( most with views of the city) are tucked throughout an antique brick townhouse overlooking North Square in the heart of Boston's North End neighborhood.

Top review

B

BenVIP

Dined on 14 Jan 2025

Risotto was unbelievably good. Mozzarella and tomato appetizer was also great. My mushroom ravioli was aa good as I've ever had. Server was excellent. Top, top meal.

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A photo of Pasta con Sugo of a restaurant

A photo of Rabbit Pasta of a restaurant

A photo of Snail Pasta of a restaurant

A photo of Musso & Frank Grill restaurant

Musso & Frank Grill

4.8

4.8 (11344)

$31 to $50

Steakhouse

Hollywood

About the restaurant

Welcome to The Musso & Frank Grill where we provide an authentic Old Hollywood dining experience one would have received in the early decades of last century. We welcome you to Old Hollywood!

Top review

S

Shaunee

Dined 6 days ago

Had a great time. Had reservations at 7:45 and they sat us down 20 minutes early. Right off the bat the ambiance with the dim light was relaxing. The old fashion cocktail I had was great. We celebrated a birthday and they gave us a birthday card from their own collection, which felt amazing. They didn't have to do that but they wanted us to feel special and right at home. We had the prime rib dinner, which was a homerun on taste, temperature, and buttery soft when cutting into it. Their truffle mac n cheese was amazing and I've had alot of Mac n cheese in my life. My grandma had the soup of the day which was celery and broccoli and she loved it... to the point where she didn't want to share lol. All in all musso and franks was an incredible experience and I will definitely be going back soon to celebrate more birthdays

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A photo of Ribeye Steak of a restaurant

A photo of Filet Mignon of a restaurant

A photo of Spaghetti and Meatballs of a restaurant

Spaghetti and Meatballs

A photo of Nusr-Et Dubai restaurant

4.5

4.5 (2449)

AED 185 and over

Steakhouse

Jumeirah 2

About the restaurant

Was superb. Nothing more to say! It was a blast, thank you for everything!

Top review

S

Sameh

Dined 3 days ago

Excellent service. High food quality. Small portions.

A photo of Paddock & Vine restaurant

4.6

4.6 (431)

$41 to $100

Mediterranean

Mona Vale

About the restaurant

We are a newly opened restaurant & wine bar on the northern beaches, located in one of the busiest suburbs, Mona Vale. Paddock and Vine brings in rustic food too the plate and home cooking with a twist. Creating an amazing feel-like home dining experience.

We do our utmost to please all palates by bringing wine from throughout the world to be enjoyed in our venue.

Our relaxed and friendly atmosphere is created to indulge our customers in comfort.

Our bar and kitchen opens six nights a week and Saturday and Sunday for lunches.

Top review

R

Ruth

Dined today

Food is delicious service attentive but not overbearing We missed the meatballs and halloumi but know that menus change Food options were plentiful and satisfying.

A photo of Restaurant Schnitzelei restaurant

Restaurant Schnitzelei

4.7

4.7 (1997)

€30 and under

German

Charlottenburg

About the restaurant

Tucked on the edge of the River Spree, Schnitzelei serves appetizers, tapas, regional German/Austrian cuisine and cold beer in tastefully designed, rustic settings. The restaurant star draw is its schnitzel menu, which features over a dozen different creative variations including tasty options for vegetarians. Schnitzelei also boasts a beer garden where diners can relax while enjoying a cold brew.

Stop by after work with friends for a fun, relaxing meal. The waterfront restaurant's cheery ambiance also makes it an ideal choice for group outings. Schnitzelei is open all through the week.

Top review

B

Brian

Dined 6 days ago

Very friendly and helpful staff. Nice location and decor and food was good too. Well worth the taxi ride

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A photo of Wiener Schnitzel of a restaurant

Wiener Schnitzel

A photo of Jäger Schnitzel of a restaurant

Jäger Schnitzel

A photo of Jäger schnitzel of a restaurant

Jäger schnitzel

A photo of Serafina by The Water restaurant

Serafina by The Water

4.7

4.7 (3755)

$31 to $50

Italian

Victoria Park

About the restaurant

“SERAFINA” in Italian translates to both “angel of the sea” and “fine evening”. Those who have been there completely agree! This beautifully romantic, candlelit trattoria is nestled in Victoria Park on a gorgeous view of the Middle River. Its doors open to the most irresistibly charming ambiance and aromas of fantastic Mediterranean flavors. Serafina has a covered and heated patio so guests can enjoy their surroundings in every season!

Top review

G

GinaVIP

Dined 2 days ago

Outstanding service, amazing staff! Food is incredible and authentic italian!

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A photo of Snapper Francese of a restaurant

Snapper Francese

A photo of Osso Buco d'Angello of a restaurant

Osso Buco d'Angello

A photo of Charred Octopus of a restaurant

Charred Octopus

A photo of Stella Cocktail Club restaurant

Stella Cocktail Club

4.4

4.4 (1376)

€31 to €50

Cocktail Bar

Rathmines

About the restaurant

Great food, great atmosphere and the staff are more than accommodating.

Top review

C

Colleen

Dined 5 days ago

We had a lovely pre-film drink at the Stella Cocktail Club. Great ambiance and service.

A photo of Tatel Madrid restaurant

4.6

4.6 (327)

€31 to €50

Mediterranean

Castellana

About the restaurant

TATEL is much more than a restaurant, it is a sensational experience that brings together the best of Spanish gastronomy, the culture of the country and the world of entertainment. TATEL Madrid offers high-quality traditional Spanish cuisine along with variations of the classics.

Top review

L

Luis

Dined on 9 Jan 2025

I love tatel the food was so good and there were very good service.

A photo of The Tap Room at Dubsdread restaurant

The Tap Room at Dubsdread

4.8

4.8 (3186)

$31 to $50

American

Downtown Orlando

About the restaurant

Our spectacular setting and award-winning food have made us a favorite in Central Florida. Join us for lunch, dinner or happy hour inside or out on the verandah. We proudly offer fresh fish, hand-cut prime steaks, homemade desserts and Orlando’s best burger!

Top review

B

bill

Dined 3 days ago

Always consistent. Good food, great service, fairly priced.

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A photo of Hot Crab & Cheese Dip of a restaurant

Hot Crab & Cheese Dip

A photo of Tap Room Bleu Cheese Chips of a restaurant

Tap Room Bleu Cheese Chips

A photo of Van Speyk restaurant

4.8

4.8 (363)

€51 and over

Dutch

Binnenstad/Burgwallen

About the restaurant

Very good food. Nice outdoor area on nice evening. When I come back to Amsterdam, I will certainly return. Great service and even better meal. Thanks.

Top review

K

KatieVIP

Dined on 1 Jan 2025

Exceptional dinner at Van Speyk. Highly recommend the onion soup and duck.

A photo of Westerns Laundry restaurant

Westerns Laundry

4.8

4.8 (1686)

£26 to £40

Modern European

Holloway

About the restaurant

Westerns Laundry is a Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant focusing on seafood & natural wines. The restaurant is located in the Islington/Highbury neighbourhood of North London. It opened in 2018 and is housed in a 1950's industrial building which used to be home to the largest commercial laundry in North London. It now boasts a beautiful 60 cover dining room, which opens onto an open 20 cover cobbled courtyard with olive trees as well as an intimate private dining room. Westerns Laundry has won numerous awards for excellence and originality and is a firm favourite on the London dining scene.

Top review

A

AndrewVIP

Dined 1 day ago

A nice meal in a very crowded restaurant. Enjoyable but glad I hadn’t booked a romantic dinner!!

A photo of Wirtshaus in der Au restaurant

Wirtshaus in der Au

4.6

4.6 (1449)

€30 and under

Bavarian

Haidhausen-Nord

About the restaurant

Munichs typical food and beverage restaurant. We love to have you here as a Guest and you will love the friendly environment.

We are happy to see you soon at our traditional hospitality since 1902

Top review

S

Stavros

Dined on 1 Jan 2025

Great Hospitality and Service (relation building from the waiters. Stefan was great). The food was exceptional and the price normal.

A photo of 開花屋 restaurant

4.7

4.7 (502)

¥5,001 to ¥10,000

Izakaya

Shibuya

About the restaurant

It is casual Japanese IZAKAYA where to eat and drink with "waiwai gayagaya" rather than to enjoy a quiet meal.Please visit the web site once to understand us.

Booking Policy: ★Cancellation Policy:
●Cancellation fee(Yen/per person)・On the day:8000/・2days before and the day before the book date:5000※Booking for 13 people or more: From the previous day to 7 days ago:5000

★Books:
●We onliy accept reservations from customers who order a course meal, so please be sure to select and write a course name. YUKI 5800/TSUKI 7800/HANA9800/HUKU12000(Yen/by only food, excluding tax)
●We cannot accept a request for increase the number of the people after 2days before the book date.
●We allow 2 hours for your seat. If you do not confirm the following, we cannot allow your book.

★For allergies or vegetalian
●Check "https://kaikaya.com/ba" for food allergies

★For children
●Check "https:/kaikaya.com/bc" for child

Top review

J

John

Dined on 12 Jan 2025

Amazing guys. Fantastic energy and really fun food.

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