What is the best/most memorable thing you've ever eaten and why?

While I don't have personal experiences, here are some compelling accounts from various sources that highlight the most memorable and best food experiences as described by others:

Heston Blumenthal's Medieval Degustation

At Dinner by Heston Blumenthal in London, the medieval-themed six-course menu stands out. Dishes like tipsy cake (c.1810) and hay-smoked trout (c.1730) are prepared in an open kitchen, providing a unique and immersive dining experience. The highlight is often the "meat fruit," a chicken-liver parfait disguised as a mandarin1.

Noma's Innovative Cuisine

Noma in Copenhagen, a three-Michelin-starred restaurant, offers an unparalleled dining experience. The menu features innovative dishes such as stuffed zucchini with bee larvae and blossoms with lobster. Noma's commitment to using local and seasonal ingredients makes each meal a memorable and unique experience1.

Quince's Delicate Corn-Stuffed Tortellini

At Quince in San Francisco, a standout dish is the delicate corn-stuffed tortellini served in a hollowed-out rolling pin. Guests use kitchen tweezers to pluck each individual folded pasta onto their plate, making the experience as simple as it is divine3.

The Test Kitchen in Cape Town

The Test Kitchen in Cape Town is renowned for its spectacular meals. The restaurant offers a tasting menu with unusual foods and preparations, each course served with its own cutlery. The attention to detail and the theatrical service make the dining experience feel like watching a dance4.

Le Petite Monde d’Edith in Auxerre

Chef Eric Paraskevas recalls a memorable meal at Le Petite Monde d’Edith in Auxerre, France. The restaurant, run by a husband and wife team, served simple yet perfect dishes in a charming atmosphere. The meal was enhanced by the company and the picturesque backdrop of the town2.

Speedy Romeo's Grilled Pizza

Food blogger Jeremy Jacobowitz raves about the Speedy Romeo pie from Speedy Romeo in New York. This grilled pizza, topped with ricotta, heirloom tomatoes, olive oil, lemon juice and zest, and red chile flakes, creates a sensory overload with its balance of acidity, heat, saltiness, and natural sweetness3.

These accounts highlight that the best and most memorable food experiences often combine exceptional cuisine, unique presentation, and an inviting atmosphere, making each meal a standout in the diner's memory.