As someone who’s always on the lookout for both delicious and visually stunning dishes, I’ve found that a great meal isn’t just about taste—it’s about how it makes you feel, and how it looks when you capture that perfect shot. Instagram has become a great platform for sharing food experiences, and I’ve learned that the best Instagram-worthy plates are often a combination of creative presentation, vibrant colors, and unique ingredients. Over the years, I’ve discovered some tips for finding those picture-perfect dishes, and I’ve had my fair share of meals that left me reaching for my camera before I even took the first bite.
1. Seek Out Local Favorites with Unique Flavors
One of the best ways to discover Instagram-worthy dishes is by exploring local spots known for their creativity and use of fresh ingredients. For example, during a trip to Mexico City, I stumbled upon a hidden gem that served traditional Mexican food with an artistic twist. The restaurant had a small open kitchen where chefs created beautiful plates using colorful ingredients like bright purple tortillas, edible flowers, and vibrant salsas. The colors popped on the plate, creating a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds.
What stood out was not just the aesthetics, but the fact that every plate felt like a piece of art. The freshness of the ingredients and the thoughtful way they were combined made each dish look like something you’d want to snap and share. For anyone looking for Instagram-worthy plates, I recommend focusing on spots that use local, seasonal ingredients in innovative ways. It’s not just about looking good—it’s about telling a story through food.
2. Look for Restaurants that Prioritize Presentation
When I’m looking for that perfect Instagram shot, presentation is key. A few years ago, I visited a fine-dining restaurant in Paris that was known for its avant-garde plating. Every dish was carefully arranged to look like a work of art, with different textures and colors layered beautifully. One dish, a deconstructed dessert, had sorbet shaped like cubes, delicate edible gold flakes, and tiny meringues scattered like confetti. The plating made the dish look almost too pretty to eat—but of course, I couldn’t resist.
Restaurants that focus on high-end presentation often experiment with color contrasts, geometric patterns, and minimalistic designs, which are all Instagram-friendly. The more visually intricate the dish, the better it tends to look on camera. When dining at these places, you can be pretty sure that every course will offer an opportunity for a gorgeous shot.
3. Find Places with Trendy or Themed Menus
Instagram thrives on trends, and food trends are no exception. Whether it’s a colorful rainbow bagel or an artfully decorated latte, themed foods make for highly shareable content. I remember the time I visited a café that specialized in everything matcha, from matcha pancakes to matcha lattes topped with a swirl of green whipped cream. The dishes were so vibrant and trendy, it was impossible not to snap a picture before digging in. The plates were not only beautiful but also instantly recognizable, making them perfect for sharing on Instagram.
Themed menus are also a great way to find Instagram-worthy plates because they often incorporate bold colors, innovative pairings, and creative styling. Whether it’s a pink-themed dessert or a playful, Instagram-famous bowl of acai, these foods are designed with aesthetics in mind and are bound to garner attention on social media.
4. Pay Attention to Restaurants with Scenic Settings
The surroundings can make a huge difference when it comes to food photos. I had an unforgettable experience dining at a rooftop restaurant in Barcelona that offered a stunning view of the Mediterranean Sea. The dishes not only looked incredible but also complemented the breathtaking backdrop of the ocean and city skyline. The atmosphere of the restaurant added so much depth to my photos, as the setting perfectly highlighted the colors and textures of the food.
Finding restaurants that offer a beautiful setting can elevate your food photos, as the combination of vibrant dishes and a scenic view creates the perfect Instagram-worthy shot. When dining in places with scenic surroundings, take a moment to consider the lighting and angles, as natural light can make a huge difference in how the colors of the plate appear in photos.
5. Ask the Staff for Recommendations
Sometimes, the best way to find Instagram-worthy plates is by asking the restaurant staff for recommendations. On a recent visit to a farm-to-table restaurant, I asked the waiter to suggest the most visually striking dish on the menu. He recommended a wild mushroom risotto with a delicate drizzle of truffle oil, topped with crispy fried herbs. The dish arrived in a shallow bowl with a creamy, rich texture, and the earthy colors made it pop against the white plate.
The staff often knows which dishes are the most photogenic, and they can help guide you to the ones that not only taste amazing but also photograph beautifully. Don’t be afraid to ask for the “Instagram special” when you’re looking for that perfect shot.