As a food lover, I’m always on the lookout for extraordinary dining experiences—those places that aren’t necessarily on every tourist’s radar but leave a lasting impression. During my travels, I had the pleasure of dining at two hidden culinary gems that took me completely by surprise: Attica in Melbourne and Tickets in Barcelona. Both offered exceptional food, service, and atmosphere, creating unforgettable dining memories. Here’s a glimpse into these extraordinary culinary experiences.
Attica, Melbourne: A Bold, Modern Australian Experience
Attica, located in the trendy Ripponlea neighborhood of Melbourne, is a place that speaks to the heart of modern Australian cuisine. As soon as I entered the restaurant, I could feel the energy and creativity in the air. The sleek, minimalistic décor, combined with the open kitchen, gave the space a contemporary yet intimate vibe. Attica is a two-Michelin-star restaurant that’s known for pushing the boundaries of Australian ingredients, and I was eager to see how chef Ben Shewry would transform the flavors of this beautiful country.
The tasting menu at Attica is an adventure in itself. Each dish felt like a story—a narrative told through ingredients that were often unexpected but always harmonious. One of the most memorable dishes I tried was the “Saltbush lamb”, a dish where the lamb was paired with native Australian herbs and spices. The flavors were bold and earthy, with the lamb cooked to perfection. I could taste the connection to the land and its people in every bite.
Another standout was the “Wallaby with desert lime”, a dish that combined the rich, tender meat of wallaby with the tangy kick of native Australian lime. The combination of local ingredients and global techniques was nothing short of genius, and I could tell that Chef Shewry’s philosophy was to honor Australian food while elevating it to new heights.
Attica isn’t just about the food, though; it’s about the experience. The staff was incredibly knowledgeable, guiding us through each course with insight and passion. Every dish was paired with a carefully selected wine, enhancing the flavors and creating an even more immersive experience. By the time I reached dessert—a delicate “lemon myrtle meringue”—I was completely captivated by the entire journey.
Tickets, Barcelona: A Whimsical Tapas Journey
Next up on my culinary adventure was Tickets in Barcelona, a restaurant that is as playful as it is sophisticated. Located in the heart of the city, Tickets is the brainchild of Albert Adrià, the famed chef known for his avant-garde approach to Spanish tapas. Walking into Tickets felt like stepping into a carnival of culinary creativity. The restaurant’s whimsical décor, with its neon signs and playful touches, set the tone for the entire meal. There was a sense of excitement in the air, and I couldn’t wait to see what surprises awaited.
The tasting menu at Tickets is a celebration of Spanish flavors, presented in a way that was both surprising and fun. From the very first dish—“air baguette”, a light and airy creation filled with savory olive oil foam—I knew this was going to be a unique experience. Each tapa was a twist on classic Spanish dishes, with ingredients and techniques that elevated them to new heights.
One of my favorites was the “liquid olives”, a dish that takes the traditional Spanish tapa and reimagines it in an entirely new form. The olives, which were encapsulated in a delicate gel, burst with flavor as soon as they touched my tongue. It was a simple yet mind-blowing experience that showcased the Adrià family’s mastery of modern culinary techniques.
Tickets also excels in the playful presentation of food. Some dishes arrived in unexpected ways, like the “ham croquettes” that were served inside a mini vending machine, adding an element of surprise and delight to the meal. The entire atmosphere of the restaurant encouraged a sense of joy and exploration, making it one of the most fun dining experiences I’ve ever had.
By the time I finished my meal at Tickets, I felt like I had been taken on a wild, delicious ride through the world of Spanish cuisine. The combination of creativity, technique, and pure joy made Tickets one of the most memorable meals of my travels.