The Scene:

It's a rare occasion when you find yourself begging for a reservation at a hotel eatery inside a hotel you wouldn't want to stay-in, but such was the experience when trying to wrangle an August reservation at this 1-star Michelin restaurant at this charmingly austere 3-star hotel. Visitors arrive to a stacked-stone gate of impressive stature just outside the main village. Inside, a dark and mysterious dining space wouldn't win any awards on its décor of terracotta-color tile floors, stacked-stone columns and rafter ceiling. But its food is another, far magical, story. Tables are set with silver plated candelabras and chargers on crimson tablecloths with comfy club chairs that pad guests through intensive 3-hour dinners. An outdoor terrace is the place to be, when open, overlooking a tranquil bar under canopy of palm trees and waterfront lounge for after dinner drinks.