As pandemic restrictions continue to lift, an increasing number of families around the world are finally able to gather once again at restaurants – many seeing the smiling faces of their loved ones for the first time in more than a year. In fact, April 12 marked the return of outdoor dining in the United Kingdom for limited-sized parties. Hilton properties there, and elsewhere in Europe and Asia, are eager to host these memorable reunions with outdoor dining experiences that offer exquisite settings with plenty of fresh air.
From beachside seven-course meals to outdoor picnics, here’s a sampling of international outdoor dining options perfect for families who prefer their meal with a side of sunshine.
Bao Bites with Bird’s-Eye View of London – London, England
Head to The Trafalgar St. James, Curio Collection by Hilton and get reacquainted with much-missed views of the capital while drinking and dining along the backdrop of Trafalgar Square and London's iconic skyline. With summer fast approaching, The Rooftop is the perfect place to catch up with old and new friends alike. The Asian-inspired menu features delights such as gyoza, bao, wagyu beef burgers and more.
Take in the Outdoors from Brunch to Sunset – Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
VaKaVa at Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers offers brunch on the terrace every Friday that celebrates the vibrant flavors and dining culture of Latin America and beyond. The menu takes diners on a gastronomic journey through Central and South America, with such dishes as beef filet anticucho, wild mushroom coca flatbread, striploin steak with chimichurri and sea bass infused with lemongrass. The hotel doesn’t hold back with its final flourish of La Bomba – a carnival of indulgent dessert flavors. Guests can also watch the sun set on VaKaVa’s lively terrace lounge from 5-7 p.m.
Cuddle Up for Camping & Explore On-Site Sweets – Phuket, Thailand
DoubleTree by Hilton Phuket Banthai offers guests an exquisite camping experience with some delicious food and beverage options. During their stay in these charming tents, hotel guests can satisfy their sweet tooth with a stop into the hotel’s new cookie-themed arrival room. Inspired by the popularity of the signature, warm DoubleTree chocolate chip cookie, guests can book a cookie tasting experience or photo shoots with cookie-themed props and photo backdrops.
Sign Up for a Seven-Course Meal on the Beach – Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Couples can book an exclusive and romantic seven-course feast on the beach at the Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah. Torch lights and the reflection of the sparkling Dubai skyline set the scene for a stream of delectable dining experience that includes prawn tartare, Acquerello risotto with black truffle and parmesan, Australian black angus tenderloin and more. Top off the evening with a twist on Hilton’s famous cocktail for dessert: a deconstructed Pinã Colada with white chocolate biscuit, pineapple compote and coconut ice cream. A personal butler is on standby to attend to diners’ needs, and for guests staying off-property, the hotel can arrange travel to and from the hotel in a Bentley.
Explore the Menu (and the Skies) in a Vubble Pod – Manila, Philippines
Hilton Manila now offers dining in bubble pods, locally nicknamed “Vubble Pods.” These private air-conditioned and enclosed domes are located adjacent to the hotel’s pool and offer incredible views of the skyline and the starlit sky. Once couples arrive at the flower-decked Vubble, they can cuddle up and watch the hotel’s chefs prepare their three-course masterpiece on the spot.
Make Room for ‘Mookata on the Beach’ – Phuket, Thailand
The Port Restaurant at the DoubleTree by Hilton Phuket Banthai Resort is now offering mookata (or, traditional Thai grill) right on the shore of the Andaman Sea. The experience features chefs serving up meat and seafood dishes right on the hotel’s beach.
Toast with Cocktails and Champagne at Sunset – Harrogate, England
Enjoy brighter days flooded with sunshine on the Majestic Champagne Terrace and Gin Lawn at DoubleTree by Hilton Harrogate Majestic Hotel & Spa. The location overlooks the Victorian manor’s sprawling grounds and the picturesque town of Harrogate. A new partnership with local distillery Harrogate Tipple means plenty of refreshing gin cocktails, and a new menu offers a variety of treats, from brunches and picnic boxes to traditional afternoon teas.
Savor a Scenic Beach Picnic in Phuket – Phuket, Thailand
Patong Beach, one of the most popular sandy spots in Phuket, awaits at DoubleTree by Hilton Phuket Banthai. Here, hotel guests can hit the sand for a beach picnic with their choice of local Thai or other international menu items, then watch the sun set over the Andaman Sea amidst coconut and palm trees
