First up, where is the Med? It’s not a defined area, but essentially includes European countries that have a coastline in the Mediterranean sea but which aren’t in north Africa. So Italy, Greece, Spain, southern France and Portugal, despite most of the Portuguese coast being on the Atlantic. Although in the Mediterranean, Turkey isn’t usually included.

The Mediterranean diet is heavily influenced by the sea – superb shellfish like prawns and langoustines, a whole host of fresh white fish like el dorado. But you’ll also get incredible cured meats, like chorizo and jabugo ham from Spain, and Parma ham from Italy as you move inland and to the mountains. All grow olives so olive oil features widely, as do wines, and they produce some of the world’s best vegetables – tomatoes, peppers and the like. I can’t get enough of it all.

Spain

Tapas reigns supreme here – little tasting dishes. San Sebastian on the northern coast is a foodie mecca, so almost anywhere in this University town is good. For Basque-style molecular gastronomy, try the incredibly revered Arzak or Mugaritz. Or inland in Logrono at the heart of the Rioja wine region, try several along and around Calle Del Laurel in the old town, like Las Cubanas. To the south, in Seville, try Abades Triana, overlooking the old town. The private room with a glass floor is stunning. In Barcelona, Cal Pep is the place to go. There’s the informal tapas bar and next door, the seafood-focused restaurant. Advance booking recommended.

Southern France

The Cote d’Azur on the French Mediterranean coast is peppered with stunning and glamorous places (equally true of the ladies there, too). Monaco, Saint Tropez, Nice, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, Cannes, the list goes on. The ‘Provencal’ cuisine features seafood soup (bouillabaisse) and heartier stews (daube). Try Alain Ducasse’s Spoon at Byblos hotel in Saint Tropez or the swanky Mirazur near Monaco.

Greece

Greek food is dominated by the use of lemons, olive oil and fresh seafood with just a light touch of herbs, including thyme, oregano and mint. Try the best restaurant in Athens, perhaps Greece, Varoulko, or Selene amongst the white-washed homes of Santorini. I had a great meal there with Miss H recently.

Italy

Ah, the Italians. Gotta love ‘em. I’ve never had a bad meal in Italy. Incredible. Fresh pasta, Barolo and Chianti red wines, romantic settings. They’re passionate about their food and really put their soul into it. Try the Osteria Santo Spirito in Florence – the piazza terrace is quintessential Italian. In the walled town of Lucca, nearby, everywhere is good. Try Ristorante All’Olivo. In Rome, La Pergola is a knockout.

Want to know the restaurants the food critics rate? Visit the World’s 50 Best Restaurants website. I’m heading out on a blind date now – at least I can guarantee the restaurant’s going to be good! As for the date, we’ll see about that…