Wizard chef Ferran Adria lays on the ultimate in gastronomic experiences at this world famous seaside hideaway on the Costa Brava, about 175 km north of Barcelona. Demand, however, is such that two million apply to dine at this shrine to science-based gastronomy. Open half the year, with only 50 seats, no lunch, and 42 chefs, the palette-popping originality of the dishes is extraordinary. Diners rattle through a set 32-course tour de force, ranging from deconstructed "spherical" olives (which seem to explode in the mouth), to abalone, sea anemone, and melt-on-the-tongue beetroot meringue, "brazo di gitano." Gorgonzola "moshi" balls bomb your taste buds, and suckling pig tails, veal tendons, green walnuts with endive, and black garlic ravioli are the pinnacle of invention. It's 200 euros a head, if you can get a table. Plan for an overnight stay in the area; Roses is 7 km away.
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