San Antonio, USA
$$$$ ・ Contemporary,Creative
You won't need to remember to save room for dessert at Nicosi, as this unusual concept features a dessert-only tasting where no menu is shared and there is a strict no-photo policy to encourage guests to be especially present. The multicourse meal is split into four themes—acidic, umami, bitter, and sweet—with each part featuring two dishes. The menu evolves often, and the chefs weave in unexpected elements not often associated with dessert, as in sponge cake with black garlic ice cream and fermented pineapple sauce or a buñuelo filled with beef jelly and chocolate ganache and topped with cold brew coffee gel. Impressive beverage pairings, like a carrot colada with Austrian carrot eau de vie, rum, beet, and coconut foam, accompany each course.