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What Fine Dining Can Teach Us About Exceptional Customer Experience

Lyndsay Swan

Recently, I had the chance to take a seat at the table at Restaurant Botanic here in Adelaide—and let me tell you, it was next level. I’ve been to a few fine dining spots in my time, but this one? It was the ultimate masterclass in customer experience.


If you haven’t heard of it before, Restaurant Botanic is nestled right in the heart of the Botanic Gardens, classes as one of the Worlds Best 50 restaurants. As the restaurant itself puts it, “Botanic is a celebration of place and time” surrounded by the stunning 51-hectare Adelaide Botanic Garden in a glass rotunda, everything guests touch, taste and experience is inspired by it's beautiful setting.





The 12-course tasting menu showcases artisan producers from across the country, combined with ingredients sourced directly from the Botanic Garden. Unique ingredients like marron, green ants, finger limes and bunya branches take centre stage, celebrating Australia’s natural bounty as a true luxury.


Every dish came with its own story—each waiter painted a vivid picture of how it was made, the region it came from, and the journey to my plate. With every taste, smell, sight, and touch, it felt like I was being taken on a mini holiday through all the Botanic Garden has to offer.


And those dishes? Exquisite.


But here’s the thing—it wasn’t just about the food. The whole experience felt intentional, seamless, and so personal. The team at Restaurant Botanic values the entire experience, allowing guests to savour every moment in their little oasis. In fact, the dining experience itself is designed to take around four hours to ensure guests feel unrushed—a commitment to the journey as much as the destination.


It made me realise how much businesses (not just restaurants) can learn from fine dining.

Here’s what stood out to me and why fine dining is truly the king of customer experience:


1. Every detail was considered

From the moment I stepped in, everything—from the lighting to the handmade, textured ceramic dinnerware that changed with each dish—felt like it had a purpose. It reminded me that paying attention to every little detail can make your customers feel like they’re in capable hands.


2. Anticipation is key

Before I even realised I wanted something, it was already taken care of. Empty glass? Refilled. New dish? The story was already being told. It felt so seamless, and it’s proof that thinking a step ahead for your customer can create a sense of effortlessness.


3. It was all about me (or at least, it felt that way!)

Every interaction was personal, from how they remembered specific preferences to the way they explained each dish with excitement and care. It felt like I wasn’t just having a meal—I was having my meal.


These lessons aren’t just for restaurants—they apply to any business or brand.


Attention to detail builds trust.

Anticipating needs creates seamless experiences.

Personalisation leaves a lasting impression.


Whether it’s a brand identity, packaging design or a 12-course meal, the goal is the same: make your customers feel like they’re part of something unforgettable.


So, what can you take from the fine dining experience and bring into your own business?


Here’s to creating moments worth savouring,

Lyndsay


P.S. If you ever get the chance to visit Restaurant Botanic, don’t think twice. It’s not just a meal—it’s an experience that stays with you.✨

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