The Unique Dining Experiences Of The Aficionados
Founded by Iain Ainsworth, THE AFICIONADOS is a travel resource for those seeking fabulous recommendations and accommodation that effortlessly fuses luxury, design and authenticity. It comprises over 90 hotels, designer homes for private hire and guesthouses, from all across Europe and a fabulous outpost in New York, the United States, together with a selection of over 100 creatives who round out the offer of this culture and lifestyle emporium for travel and good living. The Aficionados also publishes four printed magazines: Blueprint Beauts, Farmhouse Fabulous, Casa Gorgeous and Neu Heritage.
Conceived as spaces of hospitality, design and creativity, the member hotels of THE AFICIONADOS capture the genuine essence of the cities in which they are found. From the power of the Alps to the gleam of Lago di Garda in Italy, by way of the serenity of a small fishing town in the Netherlands, the personality of each property is also reflected in its culinary offering. In the hands of a group of talented and adventurous chefs, affectionately nicknamed the Tasty Buds, the dining experience of some of the members of The Aficionados is an adventure for the senses, as well as a true reflection of the region’s ingredients and the bounties of nature.
Mühltalhof Restaurant & Hotel, Austria
Situated on the river that runs through the town of Neufelden, the Mühltalhof Restaurant is a true local legend thanks to the hard work and passion of the family that has managed it for three generations. Under the leadership of Philip Rachinger, the restaurant attracts passionate foodies thanks to its extraordinary techniques using local produce. The result is an authentic taste of the region, served with incomparable family warmth.
Filario Hotel & Residences, Italy
Lago di Como is synonymous with glamour, relaxation and enjoyment alla italiana. At Filario, an Art Nouveau mansion with breathtaking views of the lake, this experience is carried to perfection. The rich culinary culture of this northern Italian region is brought to life by chef Alessandro Parisi, promoting local producers in the resort’s two restaurants: Yeast Side is the ideal destination for pizzas, antipasti dishes, and alfresco cocktails, while Filo presents a sophisticated menu that changes seasonally.
The August, Belgium
Antwerp’s Green District, the city’s creative quarter par excellence, is home to The August, conceived by a group of acclaimed Belgian architects and designers. Creativity is also reflected in the hotel’s dining concept, based on local and seasonal ingredients. Under chef Nick Bril, the kitchen offers both casual dishes such as burrata or a flatbread with sardines, as well as a delicate tasting menu.
De Durgerdam, Holland
A few miles from Amsterdam, the small seaside town of Dugerdam invites you to slow down and admire the blue sky and the waves. Occupying a 17th-century inn, the De Dugerdam hotel is a hideaway of tranquility, but also one of serious culinary creativity. Developed in collaboration with two Michelin-starred chefs, Richard van Oostenbrugge and Thomas Groot, the De Mark restaurant elevates local tradition, giving an original and modern twist to traditional local dishes.
Hotel Arlberg, Austria
The towering Arlberg Mountains surround Lech, the charming ski resort that houses this alpine retreat. The Arlberg celebrates its 1950s origins and combines them with warm personal touches, from design elements to the culinary concept. Chef Patrick Tober is in charge of the hotel’s three restaurants, serving Italian food at La Fenice, local specialties at Stube, and casual dishes on the terrace.
Aqua Boutique Hotel, Italy
The Aqua Boutique Hotel –located on the shores of Lago di Garda–, a renovated 1930s villa, welcomes those who love spending time by the water. The lake becomes the ideal companion for enjoying seasonal fruit, regional cured meats and cheeses, as well as specialties from neighboring countries, such as homemade gazpacho. Local wine complements every sunset, making it unforgettable.
Son Brull, Mallorca, Spain
With its stunning beaches and relaxed atmosphere, Mallorca invites you to immerse yourself in the charms of the Mediterranean. The historical past of Son Brull, a former monastery, makes it the ideal hideaway to enjoy the pleasures of good food with all the senses. The hotel has its own organic farm, providing guests with fresh fruit every day. Its Restaurant 3/65, run by chef Andrea Segura, serves a tasting menu grounded in local flavours.
Project / Brand: The Aficionados
Photography: The Aficionados