The world of restaurants is a highly competitive arena in which many of the contenders go out of business after just a few years. When you notice that a restaurant has remained open for some time, you can almost be certain the place serves some delicious eats. Couple this with the abundance of fine dining experiences in major population centers, and it can be a real challenge for some eateries to draw attention. That's why many restaurants opt for a zany or unusual theme to attract potential customers. If you are in the mood for something unique or exotic for your next meal, then read on to learn about 15 bizarre-themed restaurants that are worth experiencing.
1. Modern Toilet Restaurant
As the name suggests, Modern Toilet utilizes the classic bathroom fixture as the basis of the decor. In addition to sitting on toilets while eating, the dishes themselves are served in miniature porcelain bowls. The premise alone is enough to produce a constant stream of curious customers through the doors.
2. Ninja New York
This underground venue is hidden away in New York City. Upon finding the establishment, you will notice it is based on a feudal Japanese setting. The staff are all dressed as ninjas and even perform cool tricks in between rounds of culturally appropriate food items.
3. Ithaa Undersea Restaurant
The Maldives has a ton of interesting water-based activities, so Ithaa fits right into any vacation plan. The restaurant is famous for the undersea dining experience, in which patrons are surrounded by panoramic views of ocean life. The dining room is 16 feet below sea level, meaning this is one meal you won't forget anytime soon.
4. In the dark?
This French favorite highlights the importance of the senses while enjoying a good meal. By dining in complete darkness, foodies are encouraged to observe the other four senses more closely. Depriving your vision enhances the other senses, improving the overall experience immensely.
5. Cat Café Calico
If you love cats and coffee, the Calico Cat Cafe is the place to be. This cozy and relaxing getaway allows you to enjoy a soothing brew while spending the day with a collection of felines that are more than used to all the attention.
6. Robot Restaurant
This aptly named venue plays host to several interesting events and laser shows. The performances feature giant mecha robots battling it out in a dazzling spectacle of color and sound. The futuristic vibe gives the place an electric atmosphere that attracts youth from all over the world.
7. Heart Attack Grill
The Heart Attack Grill in Las Vegas is named after the humorous practice of claiming a calorie-packed meal will result in a heart attack. This restaurant takes that joke to its logical conclusion by offering a menu filled with ridiculously over-indulgent portion sizes.
8. Alcatraz ER
Alcatraz ER in Japan is known for its hospital-inspired building design. If that's not enough of a twist, the restaurant aims to emulate what the ER in Alcatraz prison would be like. The result is a truly unique outing where you have no clue what to expect next.
9. Dinner in the Sky
In a similar vein to Ithaa, Dinner in the Sky features a dining room suspended 50 meters into the air. The platform is carefully secured by a crane, allowing for peace of mind as you take in all the stunning views of the surrounding environment. With various locations around the world, there is always a new adventure to embark on.
10. The Lock-Up
The Lock-Up combines mystery and a great meal to create a truly memorable night out. Patrons are arrested at the start of the experience, which leads them through an interesting funnel of events that proves to be both spooky and exhilarating. The performances are always theatrical and light-hearted in tone.
11. Safe House
The Safe House in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, has a special requirement to get in. Aspiring customers must guess the password to gain entry into the espionage and spy-themed eatery. Once inside, guests can explore secret passages filled with relevant decor and movie references that will thrill any fan of classic spy flicks.
12. Depeche Mode Bar
Depeche Mode Bar in Estonia honors the iconic band with a themed dining experience that music fans will cherish. The restaurant was founded by fans for fans, so the amount of deep cut references will pique the interest of any longtime listener of the esteemed group.
13. Twin Stars Diner
Twin Stars Diner in Russia has a wait staff consisting only of identical twins. The establishment aims to provide impeccable service while keeping patrons entertained by the whimsical nature of the outing. The novelty is worth seeing once, and the quality of food will likely inspire repeat visits.
14. The Bubble Room
The Bubble Room is a colorful and eccentric eatery that is liable to bring out your inner child and put a goofy grin on your face. The decor consists of vibrant toys and other oddities from many different eras. Regardless of your generation, you are bound to be hit by waves of nostalgia when taking in all the sights and sounds.
15. Cabbages and Condoms
Cabbages and Condoms is a colorful themed restaurant located in Thailand. The condom-themed decorations that adorn the dining space are designed to promote AIDS awareness and general family planning methodologies. The food is traditional Thai fare, and the focus is more on the humorously educational aspect of the operation.