5 Underwater Restaurants And Bars Around The World
Finding a delicious spot to eat is important, but choosing a restaurant based on the setting is equally as important, too. You may be familiar with international cuisine and world-renown dishes, but can you genuinely deem yourself a self-proclaimed foodie if you haven't had a taste of the sea?
And no, we're not just talking about seafood. Due to innovative technology and increasingly modernized architectural designs, it's now possible to eat your meals right in the middle of the ocean. If you're used to the typical dinner atmosphere or meal from your dining room or kitchen, expand your food-eating horizons by chowing down in a new place and exciting place — like right in the midst of the ocean.
Is your interest piqued yet? If so, be sure to take a look at our selection of the best underwater restaurants and bars around the world that allow you to sip a few drinks and chow down on delicious meals while surrounded by the beautiful sea.
1. Sea (Kihavah, Maldives)
Located on one of South Asia's prominent island countries lies Kihavah — a peaceful and majestic fantasy land that makes you feel like you just entered your own private island or getaway retreat.
Unlike other restaurants that sit on the side of the shore, Sea, the land's prominent underwater restaurant, places you right in the midst of the surrounding ocean. Named for its proximity to the nearby waters, this restaurant lets you dine in a fish tank while the fish roam freely around you.
You may have eaten in a restaurant with a small fish tank before, but we're betting you haven't placed yourself right in the middle of the aquatic life yourself. Sit back and relax while eating one of the restaurants world-renown international gourmet meals with a savory glass of wine that adds to the elegant feel.
2. Cargo Hold (Durban, South Africa)
If you've ever wanted to dine with the sharks without taking the risk of getting bitten, then Cargo Hold is the place to be.
This unique restaurant boasts an environment that is quite reminiscent of a ghost ship — on purpose. The owners of Cargo Hold crafted their establishment with South Africa's legendary ghost ship, "The Phantom," in mind. You'll feel like you're on an actual antique boat while chowing down on delicious meals in the midst of this hauntingly beautiful environment.
If the atmosphere wasn't enough to draw you in, the menu will. Options such as cured and seasoned salmon trout and marinated grilled calamari are fan-favorited options that please any individual's appetite with optimal satisfaction.
3. Atrium Bar (Berlin, Germany)
If you suffer from a bit of seasickness or aren't exactly thrilled at the idea of placing yourself in the midst of sharks or marine life, why not opt for a visit to a restaurant with the world's largest cylindrical aquarium instead?
Instead of being surrounded entirely by water, Atrium Bar allows you to sip on your drinks while an astonishing 25-meter tall aquarium hovers above you. If you're looking for a more relaxed environment that will enable you to indulge in wine and other drink varieties, Atrium Bar may just be your new favorite place.
Don't worry about planning reservations months in advance. This Berlin bar is the ideal spot to grab a pastry and drink — even when you're in a hurry.
4. USS Nemo (Naples, Florida)
Who says you have to venture to a foreign land to get a taste of the sea? In fact, you can emerge yourself in a beautiful underwater display right at home in the US during a stop by Florida's USS Nemo.
Whether you're a native to Florida or looking for the perfect restaurant stop during your travels to the sunshine state, don't miss out on your chance to enjoy a bite of the sea while relaxing in an elegant and sophisticated environment pulled together by amazing chefs and staff.
While USS Nemo is highly esteemed for its nutritious and freshly prepared and locally caught seafood dishes, it also prepares ethnic-inspired entrees that brings the diverse tastes of the world into one plate, too. From Scottish salmon to Indian prime tuna, there's a bite for every palette and flavor at this delicious Floridian restaurant.
5. Ithaa Undersea Restaurant (Conrad Rangali Islands)
Ithaa, which translates to mother-of-pearl from Dhivehi, is undoubtedly the treasured gem of the island.
Ithaa is the first of its kind and holds the title of the world's first underwater restaurant in the world. Not only did this restaurant make history, but its menu is pretty innovating, too. Guests can enjoy the authentic Maldivian cuisine mixed with a hint of Western and Asian flavors.
The panoramic view of the restaurants offers guests the ability to sit up close and personal next to sharks, squids, and other exotic marine life species. A mere glass structure separates you from the surrounding sea while you unwind in this underwater wonderland.
Eating a delicious meal is always the perfect excuse to embark on a new exploration, but chowing down on tasty cuisines in the middle of the ocean gives you even more reason to travel.
Whether you're looking for a new set of eating surroundings or merely want to sip on a martini while surrounded by sharks, be sure to check out our top underwater travel destinations the next time you're in the mood for some delicious eats with a breath-taking view, too.