One of the benefits of opting for a cruise vacation is that you never have to worry about where you’ll eat. Be it quick-serve, room service, the dining room, or specialty restaurants, most lines have you covered with a plethora of meal options.

That’s certainly the case on Holland America Line’s Pinnacle Class ships. I recently had the opportunity to join a 5-day North Sea sailing on board the new Rotterdam and not once did I feel even the slightest twinge of hunger. With HAL’s commitment to dining excellence and experience via their Culinary Council, there’s something to please every palate from haute cuisine to fast-food favorites.

Here are a few dishes that really shone during my sailing, listed in no particular order. 

1. Cashew Barramundi With Red Thai Curry

Tamarind

Tamarind is one of several specialty restaurants on board HAL’s Pinnacle ships. While you’ll pay an upcharge to dine here, it’s well worth it. The Asian-fusion menu blends Chinese, Southeast Asian, and Japanese flavors for a meal that truly stands out, even on a ship with so many dining options! Many of the sharable appetizer plates were seafood-forward and delicious, but there were starters for carnivores and vegetarians as well. I opted for the barramundi as my entrée; the Asian sea bass was prepared perfectly, as were the veggies sauteed on the side. Thai basil gave the entire dish a perfect, herbaceous zip.

2. Specialty Sushi Rolls

Nami

On a different night, I decided to head to Nami to get my sushi fix. Like all of the seafood served on board, the rolls I sampled were incredibly fresh and the quality of the cuts stood on their own. They were simply served; no funky sauces or a bunch of other ingredients to get in the way. The other thing I loved about Nami is that it’s a small, quiet space, and you can easily snag a seat at the bar if you want to watch the expert chefs at work. This is also a specialty restaurant, but unlike Tamarind, you pay ala carte as opposed to prix fixe.

3. Dover Sole Meuniere

Rudy’s Sel De Mer

Of course, I wanted to get the French-Med take on the bountiful seafood and produce on board, so I also had dinner at Rudy’s Sel de Mer. While the smoked salmon was a visual showstopper (served under a glass cloche that emitted a delicate puff of smoke when lifted at the table), and the baguette and various tapenades served before my meal were terrific, I really loved the whole Dover sole meuniere. The flat, delicate fish was cooked in the traditional way, sauteed to simple perfection with tapenade, lemon, and fresh parsley on the side. 

4. Filet Mignon

Pinnacle Grill

Lest you think Holland America’s culinary offerings only target pescatarians, let’s move on to the Pinnacle Grill — the specialty steak and chophouse. Here’s where you’ll get your red meat fix in, with cuts of aged beef in all sizes and styles. I couldn’t even think about putting away a porterhouse on my own, so I opted for the petite filet mignon. It was so tender and delicate, yet had that robust beefy flavor you’d expect from such a fine cut. I paired mine with asparagus, but the mac and cheese looked divine, as did the famous clothesline candied bacon appetizer!

5. Chopped Steak Dinner

Main Dining Room

I was fortunate to be on board one of Holland America’s Heritage sailings, designed to celebrate the line’s 150th anniversary. There were lectures and artifacts detailing HAL’s history, and that rich tradition also came through on the menu. One evening, we were all invited to sample entrées from archived menus. I chose the chopped steak. It reminded me a bit of an extremely elevated TV dinner, in the best way possible. It was a nostalgic and delicious taste of the past, and I’m sure such dishes provided comfort to the thousands of immigrants Holland America transported to their new homes in America or Canada.

6. Dungeness Crab Eggs Benedict

Main Dining Room

I’m not going to lie, when cruising, I usually opt for a room service breakfast. It allows me to get a great workout in, eat in the privacy of my room, then shower and go. That said, getting dressed early and heading to the dining room for Holland America’s Dungeness crab eggs Benedict was well worth the effort. The chefs took an already decadent dish and elevated it with sweet crab and asparagus… but it wasn’t so heavy that I felt weighed down. It was a brilliant breakfast and got me well-fueled for the day ahead.

7. Dutch High Tea

Dining Room

When I noticed a traditional Dutch tea service was on offer during my sailing, I decided to make time and save room for it. I was so glad I did and the experience definitely qualified as an entire meal! The tea, while black and not my preference of green, was steeped lightly enough that a tiny splash of cream cut the malty taste. Everyone taking part was presented with a traditional silver high tea stand, with traditional sandwiches at the bottom (watercress and smoked salmon, of course!) and decadent pastries toward the top. It was the perfect midday meal!

8. Desserts

Grand Dutch Café

Finally, the essential question: Desserts qualify as a meal, right? If you’re on vacation, absolutely. And to find some of the best on HAL’s Pinnacle Class ships, head straight to the Grand Dutch Café. Here, you’ll find light cocktails, specialty coffees including lattes, and the most decadent desserts ever. Pastry fans will love the Poffertjes, or Dutch pancakes, but my favorite was the Bossche bol — an enormous chocolate-covered cream puff.

Pro Tip: If you think you want to dine at one of HAL’s specialty restaurants on board its Pinnacle Line ships (and you should!) make sure to book your reservations ahead. These hotspots often fill up quickly.

For a tiny, rather historically overlooked island in the middle of the Atlantic, Bermuda has a surprisingly varied and delicious food scene. British, African, Portuguese, Caribbean, Filipino, and Native American cultures all contribute to the island’s culinary canon. Unsurprisingly, a lot of the specialties include catches from the sea, especially the local fish that group around the shores: rockfish (aka grouper), flaky white wahoo, and the spiny lobster shellfish people wait all year for. There’s no end to these seafood specialties. But Bermuda also has some great spices and flavorings that you might not have tried before, with an intriguing obsession for salty-sweet combinations.

Here are nine things you can’t leave the island without trying, plus where to find them.

1. Bermuda Rockfish 

Breezes Restaurant

Rockfish — more commonly known as black grouper — is a shorefish that are prolific in the Atlantic waters around Bermuda. You’ll see it on the menu at almost any seafood restaurant; which is basically any restaurant in Bermuda. The best, or at least the most local, way to try it is pan-fried, either in a lemon butter sauce or served with toasted almonds. Or try a sauce made with grilled Bermuda bananas and a local rum, known as Gosling’s Black Seal Sauce (see below). The latter is how it’s prepared at Breeze’s Restaurant and it was a delightful first foray into Bermuda’s salty-sweet fixation.

2. Wahoo Fish Sandwich 

Cafe Olé; Art Mel’s

Another popular way to eat fish is in a sandwich. In fact, the fish sandwich is something of an obsession on the island. But the particular Bermudian way of eating it is in between slices of toasted raisin bread. The bread choice sounded intriguing indeed and I polled locals about the best place to try it. It came down to two places: Cafe Olé near the Crystal Caves or Art Mel’s in a residential part of Hamilton. Both of these casual eateries place thick pieces of fried wahoo, mayo, and slaw between toasted raisin bread. Believe me, you’ll be flying back for this Bermy dish.

3. Dark N’ Stormy Cocktail

Harry’s At The Waterfront

Gosling rum is the single thing that Bermuda exports to the world. Goslings, a family business that goes back to the 1800s, makes several types of rum. But Black Seal is the company’s signature rum and it’s the tempest behind Bermuda’s favorite cocktail — the Dark n’ Stormy. The drink is similar to a Moscow mule, except with dark rum instead of vodka and garnished with a lime. You can try the drink at almost any bar, but Harry’s on the Waterfront is an especially pleasant place for a tipple and a local favorite.

Insider Tip: Stopping at Gosling’s flagship store for a bottle of rum is definitely on every shopper’s to-do list. Though, if you’re doing carry-on, you might want to wait and pick up a bottle duty-free. Also in town, you can even visit Gosling’s rum-making facility (upon appointment) to hear their fascinating history as well as the logistics of being the sole exporter in Bermuda.

4. Spiny Lobster 

Wahoo’s Bistro & Patio

The local lobster known as “spiny lobster” is in season between September and March. Locals wait all year for it and practically cheer on the local fishermen who dive for the catch around the island’s shores.

Also known as rock lobster or Bermuda lobster, these crustaceans don’t have claws so most of the tender meat is found in the tail. It’ll be on many restaurant menus in season. Wahoo’s in Hamilton is the place I’d recommend. During lobster season, their menu features an array of dishes with the spiny specialty: They use it in chowders, salads, pasta dishes, and more. But best of all is their “special” — a half-spiny lobster filled with crabmeat stuffing.

5. Codfish Breakfast

Bouchée Bistro

If your trip overlaps with the weekend, you should do a Sunday codfish breakfast. Typically, the meal consists of thick-cut salted cod and boiled potatoes with either a butter sauce or a stewed tomato sauce. On the side is a hard-boiled egg, ripe banana, sliced avocado, and a side order of Johnny cakes. Many locals like to mash it all together, achieving the salty-sweet combo they can’t seem to get enough of. It’ll definitely fill you up and you’ll probably not want to do anything other than what locals do after a codfish breakfast — retire to the nearest beach lounger for the afternoon. While Bouchée is a French bistro, it has a fantastic version of this favorite Bermuda brunch ritual.

6. Bermuda Fish Chowder 

Lobster Pot & Boat House Bar

Its history dates back to the 17th century and Colonial England’s presence on the island. Today, fish chowder is the national dish of Bermuda. You’ll find it on almost every menu, whether it’s a casual eatery or upscale restaurant.

The chowder differs from its New England counterpart in that it is made with tomato and fish base rather than cream. But it’s just as hearty! Chunks of tender white fish, tomatoes, onions, and other vegetables are slow-cooked with a splash of dark rum (usually Gosling’s Black Seal Rum). A few drops of a local Bermudian hot sauce (known as “sherry peppers sauce”) are then added to create its signature taste. This is the kind of dish that every family has a secret recipe for and there is an annual Bermuda fish chowder competition. Among the best restaurant options, though, is the Lobster Pot & Boat House Bar.

7. Loquat Jam (Or Liqueur)

The Pickled Onion

I often heard that nothing is grown on the island. (Not even onions? I wondered. It used to be an industry, I was told, but not so much anymore.) Absolutely everything is imported, I heard time and again. And yet many also raved about the loquat — a small, wild yellow fruit that locals forage for from late January until March, and turn into jam or liqueur.

I’m a jam connoisseur, so I tried to find a shop where I could buy a jar to take home, but no luck. I learned you have to know someone on the island who’s made it and get it from them. I didn’t have time to make that kind of friend. But I did see loquat jam on the menu at The Pickled Onion restaurant, served with what else but a fish sandwich.

The little fruit is also turned into a liqueur known as Bermuda Gold used in fruit sour cocktails. (Some locals make their own with the berries, sugar, and Gosling’s Light Rum.)

Insider Tip: It’s not actually true that nothing is grown on the island. Besides loquat, Chef Dawn Burrel offers a great wild edible tour @bdawildherbs. Participants forage edible and medicinal plants and then enjoy a plant-based meal using freshly picked ingredients.

8. Rum Swizzle

The Swizzle Inn Pub And Restaurant

Rum Swizzle is a punch with a punch that was invented in 1932 at the Swizzle Inn, one of the most iconic places in Bermuda. (The Swizzle Inn motto is “Swizzle Inn and Swagger Out.”) Today, it’s almost a mecca for visitors and returning Bermudians home to meet up with friends old and new over a drink. The walls are covered with vintage decals and many returning guests look for their old stickers in the way one might look for the initials once carved into a tree trunk. You can either while away the afternoon over lunch and a drink on the sunny patio or spend an evening in the atmospheric interior.

9. Bermuda Ice Cream

Bailey’s Bay Ice Cream Parlour

A perfect afternoon starts with lunch at Swizzle Inn and finishes at Bailey’s Bay Ice Cream Parlour — a pistachio and raspberry-colored ice cream shop across the street from the inn. Bailey’s has an array of great traditional flavors for their homemade ice creams and sorbet. But you really should try an island-specific flavor, such as Dark n’ Stormy or Bermuda Banana. Or get a double-scoop with both!

Related Reading:

• 9 Incredible Experiences Not To Miss In Beautiful Bermuda
• 7 Warm International Destinations To Visit In April (2023)
• We’ve Cruised 31 Times, These Are Our 3 Favorite Experiences And Places We’ve Been

From the classic flavors of Texas to the tangy sauces of Kansas City and the authentic tastes of Memphis, barbecue is an American culinary tradition. Narrowing barbecue joints down to the best of the best is no easy feat. That’s why TravelAwaits turned to our readers to help identify the best barbecue restaurants across the U.S. in our 2023 Best Of Travel Awards.

These winners have impressed our readers with their exceptional flavors, mouthwatering meats, and authentic techniques. Prepare your taste buds for a journey through the 14 best barbecue restaurants in the U.S., which are sure to please your palate.

1. C.H.O.P. Clay’s House Of Pig (Winner)

Tupelo, Mississippi

Winner, winner, barbecue dinner! Located in Tupelo, Mississippi, Clay’s House Of Pig, aka C.H.O.P., has earned a well-deserved reputation for serving up some of the most delicious barbecue in the region, and our readers say it’s the best in the U.S.! With a focus on slow-cooked, tender meats and a variety of homemade sauces, this family-owned establishment has become a favorite among locals, visitors, and TravelAwaits readers.

What To Order

Whether on a potato or nachos, or in a sandwich or quesadilla, you can’t go wrong with the brisket.

2. Black’s Barbecue

New Braunfels, Texas

For over 85 years, Black’s Barbecue has been serving up traditional Texas barbecue at its finest. With four Texas Hill Country locations, this legendary establishment prides itself on its pit-smoked meats, including succulent brisket and juicy sausages, all accompanied by classic sides and a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.

What To Order

Enjoy hand-stuffed, slow-smoked homemade sausage and bring your appetite for the giant beef ribs — which weigh about a pound each!

3. Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que

Kansas City, Kansas

Don’t let its neighborhood corner gas station locale fool you. Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que is a must-visit destination for barbecue enthusiasts. Formerly known as Oklahoma Joe’s, this iconic spot now has three outposts in Kansas City. Mouthwatering burnt ends, succulent ribs, and flavorful sauces have earned Joe’s numerous accolades and a devoted following.

What To Order

The Rocket Pig sandwich features Joe’s tender pulled pork coated in a delectable sweet and spicy barbecue glaze topped with crispy bacon, melted pepper jack cheese, a creamy barbecue mayo, and spicy fried jalapeños.

4. Franklin Barbecue

Austin, Texas

When it comes to barbecue, Franklin Barbecue in Austin, Texas, is the mecca. This nationally acclaimed establishment has garnered widespread recognition for its perfectly smoked meats; particularly the melt-in-your-mouth brisket.

Pro Tip: Get there early — the line is long, but it’s well worth the wait!

What To Order

Cooked slowly with all-wood smoke, the beef brisket is consistently the best there is, anywhere.

5. Arthur Bryant’s Barbeque

Kansas City, Missouri

A Kansas City institution, Arthur Bryant’s Barbeque is known for its iconic burnt ends and tangy sauce. This no-frills counter-service joint has been serving up exceptional old-school pit-cooked barbecue for decades. Although the King of Ribs has left the building, this historic restaurant continues to delight locals and tourists with its mouthwatering offerings that are slow-smoked over a combo of oak and hickory woods.

What To Order

Split the sandwich combo — half beef, half pork, or ham — with a side of fries, baked beans, and a red cream soda.

6. The Bar-B-Q Shop

Memphis, Tennessee

A beloved gem in a city renowned for its barbecue, The Bar-B-Q Shop is famous for its award-winning Dancing Pigs sauce, tender ribs, and succulent pulled pork. This family-owned establishment showcases the authentic flavors that make Memphis barbecue truly special.

What To Order

Get the half-and-half ribs to see if you prefer “wet” with sauce or dry rub served with Texas toast. Then, be sure to upgrade your side to the famous Bar-B-Q spaghetti. For dessert, there’s banana pudding cheesecake and the chocolate silk pie — oh my!

7. Pappy’s Smokehouse

St. Louis, Missouri

Pappy’s Smokehouse in St. Louis’s Midtown has gained a loyal following thanks to its expertly smoked meats and delectable flavors. From their renowned dry-rubbed ribs to the flavorful pulled pork, Pappy’s delivers barbecue perfection with every bite, earning it a spot among the best in the nation.

What To Order

Try some burnt ends with sweet potato fries, fire and ice pickles, and fried corn on the cob or a Frito pie topped with pulled pork.

8. Central BBQ

Memphis, Tennessee

Central BBQ has become synonymous with exceptional barbecue in the hardwood capital that is Memphis. The motto, “Smoke is Our Sauce,” refers to the hickory and pecan woods that produce mouthwatering ribs and pulled pork, but there are a variety of homemade sauces available as well! The real rub is in Central BBQ’s smoky, spicy signature rub that tantalizes the taste buds and keeps our readers coming back for more.

What To Order

We recommend either the jerk chicken wings or the fall-off-the-bone ribs with house chips or pork rinds.

9. Charlie Vergos’ Rendezvous

Memphis, Tennessee

Located in downtown Memphis, Tennessee, The Rendezvous is a true barbecue institution. Since 1948, this iconic restaurant has been serving up its signature dry-rubbed ribs, cooked to perfection over charcoal. The unique blend of spices creates a flavor profile that is both robust and unforgettable, making it a must-visit destination for barbecue enthusiasts.

What To Order

You can’t go wrong with the melt-in-your-mouth brisket and exquisite dry-rub ribs with juicy tender meat that has a great bark. A small order of charbroiled pork ribs comes with baked beans and mustard slaw, but the red beans and rice are also delish!

10. Cackle & Oink BBQ

Sherman, Texas

Located in Sherman, Texas, between Dallas and the Oklahoma border, Cackle & Oink BBQ is a hidden gem that consistently delivers exceptional barbecue. With a focus on quality ingredients and time-honored smoking techniques, this family-owned establishment offers a delectable array of meats, including tender-sliced brisket, juicy pork ribs, and flavorful jalapeño sausage, all complemented by their mouthwatering homemade sauces.

What To Order

Order the Cackle and Oink to get a sampling of pulled pork, a smoked leg quarter, and a sausage link, as well as two sides. Good luck choosing between the ridiculously delicious jalapeño cornbread casserole, green beans, black-eyed peas, and boiled cabbage!

11. The Notorious P.I.G.

Missoula, Montana

In the unlikely location of Missoula, Montana, you’ll find the Notorious P.I.G., a barbecue joint that surprises and delights with its authentic flavors. Passionate, dedicated pitmasters combine traditional smoking methods and locally sourced ingredients to create inventive and rich barbecue dishes. Sauces range from sweet and hot-tomato-based to a North Carolina hot vinegar sauce.

What To Order

Order some tender and flavorful burnt ends with spicy pit-baked beans, tasty deviled-egg potato salad, fire and ice pickles, and yummy cinnamon applesauce. Might as well get a sweet tea, too; you won’t see that on many Montana menus.

12. ZZQ Texas Craft Barbeque

Richmond, Virginia

Despite being located far from the Lone Star State, ZZQ Texas Craft Barbeque in Richmond, Virginia, has mastered the art of Texas-style barbecue. Using sustainably raised meats and time-honored techniques, this unique establishment serves up mouthwatering brisket, sausage, and ribs, all cooked low and slow for that perfect smoky flavor.

What To Order

Order beef ribs, jalapeño mac and cheese, and collard greens online and take it out back to the patio, where barbecue-hued whiffs waft from the huge smoker.

13. The Salt Lick

Driftwood, Texas

Nestled in the Texas Hill Country outside of Austin, Salt Lick is a true barbecue destination. Surrounded by oak trees, this legendary establishment offers an authentic family-style Texas barbecue experience. Feast on famous pit-smoked meats, such as succulent beef ribs and mouthwatering sausage, while enjoying the warm and inviting indoor/outdoor picnic-style atmosphere.

Pro Tip: There are no reservations, so be prepared to wait with a cooler; it is BYOB. Hopefully, there will be live music! Also, they only accept cash.

What To Order

Go “Family Style” for all-you-can-eat beef brisket, sausage, and pork ribs, served with potato salad, cole slaw, and beans. Save room for cobbler and/or pecan pie à la mode!

14. Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q

Decatur, Alabama

In the heart of Decatur, Alabama, Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q has been serving up award-winning barbecue since 1925. The secret to such a rich history of culinary excellence? It’s all in barbecue legend Big Bob Gibson’s signature white sauce.

What To Order

This iconic establishment offers a myriad of mouthwatering meats, from juicy smoked chicken to flavorful pulled pork. But we recommend getting the stuffed potato so you’ll have room for pie!

Showcasing the diversity and passion that define American barbecue, these Best Of Travel Award-winning barbecue restaurants have truly impressed our readers with a dedication to the craft of cooking low and slow, from the South to the Midwest and beyond.

Read more from our 2023 Best Of Travel Awards.

I have always loved Turkish food. Fortunately, I live in New York City where Turkish restaurants are plentiful and I have traveled to other cities, like Berlin, where Turkish street food is a late-night staple. But, when invited by Go Türkiye to the country formerly known as Turkey, I was excited to satisfy my Turkish food cravings with the real deal in situ.

My 7-day visit was spent entirely in Istanbul, perfect for a multicultural immersion into Turkish food. With its vast Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman heritage, the city once called Constantinople is a mélange of street treats, Michelin-star recipients and hopefuls, and homestyle dining. Beyond the magic of its mosques, monuments, and hammams, Istanbul is the only city that spans two continents, Europe and Asia, separated by the thin Bosphorus Strait. And, while a modern city in current parlance, Istanbul evidences its 2,500-year history throughout.

The intrepid foodie traveler in me took to this city of contrasts like a bee to lokum, and happily, my thousands of steps balanced out the thousands of calories I ingested on this delicious eating trip.

Here are some of the best foods I ate in Istanbul and where to find them:

1. Lokum 

The delicious candy known as “Turkish Delight” comes in a variety of flavors and consistencies. Jellylike and soft, made with nuts, fruit, and nougat, lokum appears in tempting displays. Merchants will give you a sample if you aren’t sure whether pistachio or fruit is better, and you can ask to have a box vacuum-sealed to take home. You’ll also find mountains of lokum at specialist HazerBaba in both the Spice Bazaar and on Istiklal. For an alternative, try their halva. It’s creamy, soft, and completely different from the dry version you might have had at home.

2. Dondurma

If you’re a fan of TikTok, you might have seen the teasing theatrical presentation of elastic Turkish ice cream that combines entertainment with deliciousness. Dondurma’s consistency is different from customary ice cream or gelato; you can pull it out almost like eating a piece of taffy. On Istiklal Caddesi, the vendors have fun with customers, proffering ice cream in cones and quickly pulling them away, multiple times, in a sort of ice cream dance you’ll want to capture on video. If you’re on the Asian side of the city on Bağdat Avenue, Mado offers a café setting where you can sample the Turkish dessert made chewy with ground-up orchid tubers.

3. Fresh Juices And Drinks

Enticing displays of oranges and pomegranates pop up not just on Istiklal Street but also among the cobblestones of Balat and elsewhere, where a refreshing juice break takes the place of a Coke or maybe even Turkish coffee or tea. More unusual, pickles are an important part of Turkish cuisine, and so is pickle juice. But unlike the alcohol-laced pickleback you might know, made with pickle juice and whiskey, this drink is a pinkish mix of pickle juice and pickled vegetables with a salty, sour overtone. During colder months, sahlep is a popular warm libation of orchid root, milk, sugar, and cinnamon. Think of it as an eggnog you might enjoy at Christmas. It’s available at dedicated stands and at Mado cafés throughout the city.

4. Tea, Coffee, And Sweets 

If cold beverages aren’t your thing, Turkish tea (çay) and coffee are cultural mainstays in Istanbul. Çay is served in small tulip-shaped cups, made with black tea from the northern region of the country. A Turkish coffee experience in Istanbul is just that — an experience. You’ll want to select a traditional “coffee bar” where you can observe the coffee-making process in brass pots, deciding whether you’d like it sweet, medium, or strong. Coffee is served black in a small ceramic cup with a layer of grounds on the bottom. Modern versions of these coffee shops, more akin to Starbucks or Paul, have coffee machines that brew an equally satisfying version of the beans in much less time. 

If you’re in love with the coffee, you can buy a bag of grinds for home preparation from the Spice Bazaar. For the perfect accompaniment, Turkish baklava with pistachios or honey is de rigueur at Gulluoglu Baklavacisi. Suit up with a hair net, gown, and slippers to watch the preparation of the multi-layer pastry, and then visit their family-run café to indulge and buy some to take home if it’s at the end of your trip. (The shelf life is limited and baklava is better eaten when fresh.)

Fun Fact: Did you know that tulips were originally cultivated in Turkey and then exported to the Netherlands? Think about that as you sip tea from your adorable glass.

5. Breakfast 

I don’t usually eat a huge breakfast when I’m home, but in Istanbul, the kahvalti meal is one that you don’t want to miss. You have choices from an expansive buffet, as served at many hotels like the Marmara Pera where I stayed, to the fast-food type which might include pastries or bagel-like creations that may fit better with your style of eating. 

If you opt for the breakfast spread, you’ll enjoy many of my favorite Turkish treats — from cheeses, olives, breads, and fruit to yogurt, tahini, halva, simits (more on that later), and black tea. A truly special experience, the art gallery/restaurant Perispri in the hip Balat quarter features a home-cooked buffet of small breakfast plates from ceramicist-restaurateur Cahide Erel.

When I didn’t feel like stuffing my face early in the day, I stopped for a tea and simit, the Turkish equivalent of a bagel-pretzel. Flatter and covered with sesame seeds, the simit can be filled with cucumbers, meat, cheese, and other items, making it the perfect hands-on breakfast sandwich. Simit stands are ubiquitous in Istanbul or you can choose a dedicated simit shop like Tarihi Galata Simitçisi and watch as they’re individually baked.

Pro Tip: If you enjoy the artwork at Perispri, you can purchase a piece to have shipped home. Unfortunately, the beautiful antiques in the dining area are not for sale.

6. Seafood 

With Istanbul’s proximity to the Mediterranean, Aegean, and Black Seas, wonderful seafood is a given in this bustling city. Along the side streets near Istiklal, you’ll find curious stands selling mussels (midye dolma) stuffed with seasoned rice and served in their shells. It sounds odd to eat mussels while standing up but it was a delicious treat. At the Michelin Bib Gourmand Alaf, Anatolian-style grilled fish was a highlight, adorned with onions and cilantro. The fish was presented in gastro-gourmet fashion on newspaper rather than on plates and paired with high-end Turkish wines like Junus, a blend of syrah, cabernet sauvignon, and merlot from the Aegean. 

If you opt for a cruise on the Bosphorus from Galataport — and you should — there are restaurants nearby that specialize in local seafood like anchovies, sea bass, and red mullet. At the waterfront Ringa Balik in the wealthy Oligark neighborhood, a display greets you to show you the catch of the day. Served along with meze, fish was a healthy choice, particularly after filling up on lokum and baklava.

7. Meze

While on the topic, meze is a way of life in Turkish restaurants. At the variety of sit-down restaurants that I enjoyed, an elaborate spread of small plates kicks off your meal. Made up of traditional Turkish dishes, your appetizers can include variations of Ankara pickles, hummus, aubergine, fava beans, calamari, vegetable salads, and yogurt. For truly chic dining, meze set a beautiful stage for the vast wine selection and the meats from the open grill at Michelin-starred Mürver in the Novotel Istanbul Bosphorus.

Pro Tip: At Çiya Sofrasi, leave room for lamb dumplings and the chef’s sinful pumpkin dessert. Striving to preserve Turkish culture through regional food, the restaurant has been the darling of the media for many years. You can find Chef Dağdeviren in Season 5, episode 2 of Chef’s Table.

8. Meat Snacks

I always search out beef döner when I travel and Istanbul gave me many ways to enjoy it. At Sütiş Kebap Dünyasi, a casual restaurant, and Nişantaşki Başköşe, a more formal eatery, I had thin slices of the rotisserie-cooked meat served to me, tender and flavorful to be eaten along with cacik — Turkey’s version of tzatziki or raita. An alternative to döner, cağ kebap at Şehzade Erzurum Cağ Kebabi was my favorite street snack after visiting the Grand Bazaar and the Spice Bazaar. The spit-roasted lamb skewers wrapped in lavash bread had the DIY option of adding onions and tomatoes, unlike the döner which is generally served plain. You can also top it with ezme — a traditional Turkish sauce made with tomatoes, peppers, and olive oil.

9. Pide

Pizza lovers, rejoice! Istanbul has something for you, too, and you may never look at pizza in the same light again. Served without tomato sauce on oval-shaped flatbread, Turkish pide is served at pideci — fast-food pizzeria-like restaurants — and even at the airport. Cheese and minced lamb and beef versions are offered spiced with chopped peppers, tomato, and onion.

10. Raki

I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention Turkey’s national alcoholic spirit, raki. Similar to Greek ouzo but more aromatic and less sugary, the aniseed-based liquor is mixed with chilled water and ice to your preference. Drunk at celebrations or even at a gathering for lunch at a meyhane (tavern) along with a meze spread. As I experienced at Agora Meyhanesi 1890, raki is quite strong. My suggestion is to begin gingerly with a 50/50 raki-water ratio. Find it at cafés throughout the city or, for a treat, visit the sultry Orient Bar in the Pera Palace Hotel — the glamorous 19th-century hostelry where Agatha Christie is said to have written Murder on the Orient Express.

My wonderful guide, Eser Sedef, told me to be sure to look down every turn and walk through every pasaj (passage) that one encounters. “You’ll be surprised at every turn,” she smiled. This was certainly the case on the extensive Istiklal Caddesi pedestrian avenue in the Beyoğlu area, which leads from the Galata Tower to Taksim Square — Istanbul’s version of Shibuya. Along the road are narrow side streets and passages that revealed treasures both culinary and cultural. Combined with the many street-food options here, the restaurants that span two continents offered a non-stop invitation to explore and try new foods. 

Pro Tip: Be careful where you walk, though, as Beyoğlu’s “historic” red trams do travel along the street.

Related Reading:

• The Amazing Historic Hotel That Will Have You Book A Trip To Istanbul
• 13 Reasons To Fall In Love With Beautiful Istanbul, Turkey
• Exploring Istanbul’s Literary Landmarks: 6 Places To Visit

Food is a universal language. One of the best ways to explore new cultures and traditions is by trying the local cuisine, from street food to fine dining. To identify the best food cities in the world, we turned to our well-traveled readers. TravelAwaits readers voted the following 12 cities as the culinary capitals of the world in our annual Best Of Travel Awards.

1. Rome, Italy (Winner)

With dishes like pasta and pizza, how could Italy not top this list? The capital is full of little cafés and bars, but the Eternal City is synonymous with food. No Italian meal starts without some antipasti and a little aperitivo. When in Rome, do as the Romans do and treat yourself to cacio e pepe, a pasta dish that literally translates to “cheese and pepper.” For a taste of la dolce vita, treat yourself to a scoop of gelato or some tiramisu!

2. Paris, France

The French are famous for their cheese, bread, and wine, so it’s no surprise that our readers voted the French capital as the second-best food city in the world. In addition to iconic cafés and charming Parisian restaurants (some in old railway stations), the City of Lights is home to amazing open-air food markets. Although the markets are only open a couple of days a week, nearly every neighborhood has at least one major food shop street where almost every conceivable type of food is sold. Grab a baguette and some stinky cheese to take on a picnic in the park, nibble on a flaky and buttery croissant, sip on un café at a café, and indulge in delectable delights from the boulangerie.

3. Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is known for its tapas — small plates that are perfect for sharing and trying a variety of different dishes. This coastal city is swimming with seafood and boasts some of the best paellas you can find in Spain. A feast for the senses, La Boqueria is a vast and colorful covered market. The unmistakable wrought-iron Art Deco building is full of local and exotic fruit, cheeses, charcuteries, fresh fish, a great selection of spices, and a few little restaurants where you can sample freshly cooked seafood.

4. Vienna, Austria

Known for its exquisite cuisine, coffee, hot chocolate, and pastries, Vienna is home to such delicacies as goulash, apple strudel, and kaiserschmarrn (scrambled pancake). Don’t sleep on the schnitzel — the classic Austrian dish that consists of a breaded and fried cutlet. 

5. Verona, Italy

Just 75 miles west of Venice, Verona is known as the set of Romeo and Juliet, but it is also a popular foodie destination. We’re here for the carbs! In addition to fresh housemade pasta, Verona offers polenta, a classic dish in Northern Italy that is made with corn flour. Gnocchi is the star of Verona’s Carnival season and ciabatta is the Italian answer to the French baguette. Ever present on Verona menus, risotto all’Amarone is made with locally grown rice and red wine (Amarone della Valpolicella) instead of white, topped with a generous grating of Veronese cheese. Try it at Bottega Vini, one of the city’s oldest restaurants.

6. Kyoto, Japan

In Japan, noodles such as ramen, udon, and soba are meant for slurping, which lets the chef know you’re enjoying the food. Known for its traditional Japanese cuisine, Kyoto offers everything from noodles to sushi and tempura, but you may not have heard of some of the other local specialties. Okonomiyaki is a type of savory pancake, while yuba, or dried tofu skin, is a staple of Japanese and Chinese cuisines. Native to Kyoto, obanzai is made of fresh local ingredients that often incorporate food that would usually be discarded. Try it at the 400-year-old Nishiki Market downtown, or sample the street food and snacks available at one of its 100 booths.

7. Oaxaca, Mexico

Filled with a panoply of flavors and fresh ingredients, Mexican food joins our top 12 in what is no surprise to anyone possessing tastebuds. Considered by many to be the gastronomic capital of Mexico, Oaxaca is a great place to visit for your first trip abroad. Both the state and its eponymous city offer a bonanza of history, nature, lively festivals, warm local people, amazing architecture, vibrant markets, and food, food, food. Oaxaca is especially known for its many varieties of mole, a rich and flavorful sauce that is often served with chicken. Other local specialties include tlayudas, memelas, and chapulines, aka Mexican fried grasshoppers.

8. Bangkok, Thailand

Instead of asking how you are, Thai people will often say “Have you eaten yet?” That’s how central food is to the culture of Thailand. And with oodles of noodles, satay, and sweet treats, who could blame them? Salty, sweet, spicy, and sour notes overlap in this deeply flavorful cuisine. Traditional Thai ingredients include ginger, fish sauce, coconut, lemongrass, and incredibly spicy Thai chilis. The nation’s capital makes for the perfect place to partake in Thai street foods. Feast on fantastic flavors available at the many food stalls of Khao San Road. 

Keep in mind that in Thailand, as in many other Southeast Asian countries, there is a possibility of getting food poisoning. But don’t let that stop you from sampling delicious dishes such as pad thai, tom yum goong (hot and sour soup), khao soi (northern Thai coconut curry), mango sticky rice (a popular Thai dessert), the stinky fruit durian, som tum, and Thailand’s infamous green papaya salad.

9. Marrakesh, Morocco

From cumin to saffron, Morocco is known for its spices. A veritable spice rack in itself, ras el hanout is a rich, colorful aromatic that seasons savory Moroccan dishes such as meats, veggies, couscous, pasta, rice, and stews called tagines. Jemaa el-Fnaa, one of the most-visited tourist attractions in Marrakesh, is a great place to sample Moroccan street food. Hundreds of stalls offer delicious grilled meats, kebabs, potato cakes, and freshly fried fish in between snake charmers and henna tattoo artists. While in Morocco, be sure to try the pastilla, a North African meat or seafood pie that is made with warqa dough (similar to filo).

10. Marseille, France

A coastal town on the Mediterranean in the South of France, Marseille is a seafood lover’s dream. The country’s oldest and second-most populous city is also the birthplace of bouillabaisse. In addition to this famous fish stew, classic Marseille dishes include madeleines, the iconic almond-flavored shell-shaped sponge cakes; and panisse, which is sort of like a French fry, but is made with chickpeas. Try that and socca (a chickpea pancake) at one of the city’s markets, where you can shop the region’s high-quality produce. Marseille is located in the Provence wine region, which produces some of the world’s most famous rosé wines. Its long history of immigration makes for a melting pot of gastronomical influences, from North African to Middle Eastern.

11. Athens, Greece

Greek food also has Middle Eastern influences. In fact, hummus is the Arab word for “chickpea.” Athens is a top food destination for travelers, with a rich culinary history, fresh ingredients, and a vibrant dining scene that combines tradition with innovation. Traditional dishes include moussaka (eggplant), souvlaki (skewered lamb or chicken), and dolmades (meat, rice, dill, and mint stuffed into a vine leaf). Even the dips, or mezze, such as tzatziki, are amazing. And don’t even get us started on the baklava!

Greece’s fertile soil, temperate climate, and proximity to the sea result in a wide variety of fresh, high-quality ingredients. Greek cuisine is known for its use of fresh herbs, vegetables, olive oil, and fish, all of which can be found in abundance in Athens. Think fresh Greek olives, just-baked pita bread, and locally produced feta crumbles. Sample street foods such as gyros, souvlaki, and spanakopita at food stalls and kiosks throughout the city.

12. Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam is a top food city due to its diverse culinary scene that showcases local and international cuisine. The city is known for its traditional Dutch dishes like bitterballen (fried meatballs) and stroopwafels, as well as its multicultural offerings, including Indonesian rijsttafel and Surinamese roti. 

Amsterdam also has a thriving street food scene, with food trucks and markets offering everything from cheese to herring to falafel. Check out the food stalls at Lindengracht Market and Albert Cuyp Market, where hundreds of stalls sell everything from fresh produce, cheese, fish, and poultry to clothing, personal items, and household goods. Stalls sell prepared global foods as well as Dutch treats like poffertjes (mini pancakes), pickled herring, and crispy potato fries. Treat yourself to a huge, freshly made, gooey, and deliciously warm caramel-filled stroopwafel. Dam Square offers food stalls, restaurants, cafés, bars, and shopping. Additionally, there is a strong focus on sustainability and farm-to-table dining, with many Amsterdam restaurants sourcing their ingredients from local farms and producers. 

These are just a few of the many great food cities in the world you can visit to satisfy your culinary cravings. Thanks to our readers who voted in our 2023 Best Of Travel Awards!

Related Reading:

• 9 Delicious Destinations For Cheese Lovers Around The World
• 7 Delicious Dishes That Taste Better In Their Native Country
• My 14 Absolute Favorite Meals I’ve Had On Vacation 

“Small but mighty” perfectly describes Grand Forks, North Dakota. The city of 60,000 sits just an hour south of the Canadian border, making it a favored destination for Canucks to hop across the line for a weekend getaway. It’s also a college town and a busy agricultural hub, so there’s always plenty going on. 

And that holds true for the food scene as well. From the Midwest’s best breakfast at Darcy’s Cafe to mouth-watering caramel rolls and chicken tortilla soup at The Red Pepper to chocolate-covered ripple chips at Widman’s Candy Store, Grand Forks is an unexpected culinary dream.

1. Casa Mexico

You’ll have to hop across the state border into the sister city of East Grand Forks, Minnesota, to get your fill of authentic Mexican fare. But the trip (really only 2 minutes over the bridge) will be worth it! Step into Casa Mexico and grab one of the coveted booths for a cozy dining experience. Warm tortilla chips and housemade salsa will be at your table before you even crack open the extra-large menu.

What To Order At Casa Mexico

While it’s nearly impossible to pick a favorite, the chimichanga platter reigns supreme in my world. I like the deep-fried, flour tortilla stuffed with beef (chicken is available too), but I especially love the Spanish rice and refried beans that accompany the piping hot plate. Can’t decide what to order? There are 27 combination plates that offer a little taste of everything.

Pro Tip: Their fresh and delicious salsa is available for takeout! Get a container or two to go for late-night chips and salsa.

2. Harry’s Steakhouse

The name “Harry” is no stranger to Grand Forks. The long-standing liquor stores called Happy Harry’s offer a grand selection of wine, spirits, and beers. And now, Harry’s family has a steakhouse! The vibe here is all 1940s-classic with padded red leather booths, sumptuous wood walls, and a towering wall of bourbon behind the bar. The restaurant sits downtown, right next to the city’s Empire Theater.

What To Order At Harry’s Steakhouse

In the classic chophouse style, the steaks are the stars here, aged at least 21 days and sourced from North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Iowa, and Nebraska. At 14 ounces, the New York strip is the perfect steak dinner, but if you’re looking to splurge, the 22-ounce bone-in ribeye is it. All sides are a la carte and come in shared portions. Harry’s-style hashbrowns start with shredded potatoes that are crispy fried then topped with onion, apple-wood smoked bacon, and crumbled bleu cheese. A dish of Brussels sprouts is also a must, graced with more bacon, more bleu cheese, dried cherries, and balsamic.

Pro Tip: A seat at the bar gives you dinner and a show as the skilled bartenders create classic cocktails. The El Mundo Libre is Harry’s twist on the margarita, featuring blanco tequila, orange liqueur, jalapeno agave nectar, and lemon.

3. The Red Pepper

Since 1961, it’s been difficult to put The Red Pepper into a category. Is it a taco stand, late-night Mexican restaurant, or sandwich shop? It’s all that and much more, serving up no-frills food from three Grand Forks locations, including the original and iconic red-clad building that’s become a landmark.

What To Order At The Red Pepper

While the tacos, tostadas, and enchiladas are always tempting, it’s the chicken tortilla soup that I crave. Thick, creamy, and with more than a little kick, it comes topped with Colby cheese and warm tortilla chips on the side. If I’m extra ravenous, a garbage plate does the trick, with tostadas, lettuce, seasoned ground beef, and lots of sauces piled high.

Pro Tip: There are no forks at The Red Pepper. There are big messy plates of crumbling enchiladas and heaping salads, but no forks. It’s spoons only. Don’t ask me why.

4. Darcy’s Cafe

It could be a movie set; it’s that cool. And it’s breakfast all day at Darcy’s Cafe, the quintessential Midwest diner that promises food “better than your grandma’s, as good as your mom’s.” Look for the low-slung white building on North Washington, then take a seat at one of the tables or plunk down at the lunch counter for daily home-cooked meals from early morning to just after lunch. You may sit next to a farmer, trucker, student, or food blogger.

What To Order At Darcy’s Cafe

Dave’s Special includes your choice of hash browns or American fries topped with sausage, bacon, ham, onions, mixed peppers, cheese, and two eggs, plus toast or pancakes. It’s most often ordered by really hungry patrons and people named Dave. I can’t resist the pecan caramel roll and a side order of crispy bacon to get the day started. In the mood for lunch? Burgers and sandwiches come with your choice of side, which includes tater tots.

Pro Tip: Darcy’s Cafe has excellent merch, from generous coffee cups to sharp-looking t-shirts with the diner’s logo.

5. Up North Pizza

The open-concept, industrial vibe inside Up North Pizza makes it a favorite for family lunches, late dinners, and gathering with friends to watch the big game. Everyone feels right at home in this place, located in East Grand Forks, Minnesota, within shouting distance of North Dakota.

What To Order At Up North Pizza

With names like Schnitzengiggles, Yeee-Row, and Cheesus Mary ‘N Joseph, it’s almost as much fun picking what to order as eating your pie. I’m a fan of the Gnarly Charlie with house red sauce, pepperoni, pineapple, and jalapeno pesto for a good, strong kick. Their mac and cheese is also stellar, with butter-baked bread crumbs and smoked chicken. Speaking of smoked: The wings are nearly addictive, especially with the Jamaican jerk rub.

6. Urban Stampede

If it’s coffee you’re craving, a visit to downtown Urban Stampede is a must. The doors opened in 1993, making it one of the state’s oldest coffee shops. Located in a gorgeously original historic building, the eclectic shop is a meeting place for downtown dwellers and visitors alike, with its cozy booths, communal tables, and lunch counter. Funky art, community notices, and happy tunes prevail.

What To Order At Urban Stampede

The revolving menu of seasonal favorites should most definitely be sampled. Quality beans from Dogwood Coffee Co. in Minneapolis are freshly roasted and delivered weekly, so the brews are always delicious. Try the signature Thai iced coffee with cardamon and condensed milk for a flavor bomb, or try the tried-and-true salted caramel latte. Take a seat, sip at your leisure, browse the shop, and stay awhile.

7. Bernie’s

Bernie’s sits in the former home of the beloved Whitey’s Wonderbar, a space that served East Grand Forks for almost 100 years. The new incarnation is the brainchild of Food Network show host Molly Yeh from Girl Meets Farm and her husband Nick Hagen. Patrons are thrilled to see the original horseshoe bar perfectly preserved as a service counter for Bernie’s midwestern fare.

What To Order At Bernie’s

The breakfast sandwich is a standout with potato and cheddar baked eggs, local Swiss cheese, and ham. Get it in the square, freshly-baked English muffin and satisfy your sweet tooth with a ginormous ripple chip and chocolate chip cookie. At lunch, a local bologna sandwich gets served up with mayo and lettuce on country white. Get it with a side of fried cheese curds.

Pro Tip: Step up to the counter to place your order then browse the general store in the lobby. Pick up Yeh’s cookbooks, ready-to-go treats, and flour milled in North Dakota.

8. Tea & Crepe

Whether it’s the cold grip of winter or the blazing heat of summer, Tea & Crepe always has plenty of patrons awaiting Asian-inspired treats including coffee, bubble tea, crepes, and rolled ice cream. The downtown location makes it a great place to pick up a cup or bowl and head for a stroll down by the river.

What To Order At Tea & Crepe

Start with a mango milk tea then indulge yourself with the TC Signature crepe which includes banana, strawberry, blueberry, raspberry, mango, pistachio, custard cream, chocolate pearls, and whipped yogurt — everything but the kitchen sink it seems! Or if you’re craving ice cream, the Bumblebee rolled ice cream treat includes bananas and Nutella.

Bonus Bite: Pop into Widman’s Candy Shop in downtown Grand Forks and pick up some Chippers. What are they, you ask? Red River Valley ripple potato chips are dipped in milk chocolate, dark chocolate (semi-sweet), or white almond for a sweet and salty taste sensation.

Related Reading:

• 7 Delicious Stops On North Dakota’s German Food Trail
• Driving The Dakotas: Rush Less, Savor More
• 10 Best North Dakota Experiences

A white sandy beach, stretching 27 miles along the Gulf of Mexico, is the perfect spot for your toes-in-the-sand getaway. In between all the swimming, tanning, and beach games, you will want to try out these delicious local restaurants in Panama City Beach.

With a location right on the water, you expect fabulous seafood. There are plenty of restaurant options showcasing seafood dishes that are cheerfully served in new and interesting ways. I’ve highlighted a variety of options from food trucks to iconic dining experiences, because when we travel, we want lots of choices!

My list of Panama City Beach (PCB) restaurants is in no particular order.

Note: Some information in this piece was obtained during a sponsored press trip, but all recommendations are my own.

1. Andy’s Flour Power

If you ask a local where they go to have a great breakfast, Andy’s Flour Power Bakery & Cafe is the top recommendation. The casual coastal vibe paired with carefully crafted cuisine is the hallmark of Andy’s.

What To Order At Andy’s Flour Power Bakery & Cafe

The Flour Power French toast served with strawberries, powdered sugar, and toasted nuts will fill you up for a day of exploring the beach scene. If you want something a little more bikini-friendly, the veggie frittata is filled with all the good-for-you veggie rainbow colors.

The adult drink menu is filled with perfectly crafted classics along with inspirational beverages to tickle your fancy. I recommend trying the breakfast martini, a citrusy sensation that will wake up your palate in the best way possible.

2. FINNS Island Style Grub

FINNS Island Style Grub is everything you want from a sea-shack outdoor dining experience. They have the freshest food, grilled to perfection, and served on long polished picnic tables in the Florida sunshine. Place your order, grab a seat, and pick up your yummy grub when they call your name.

What To Order At FINNS Island Style Grub

You can never go wrong with the daily specials; it’s what makes the cook happy on any given day and happy chefs cook great food. The breakfast hash is unctuous and salty: just what you need when you’ve had a long night or need to power through the morning.

The tacos are loaded and delicious. Try the ahi tuna taco with cabbage, pico, cilantro, wasabi, and sriracha; or the “Killer Carnita Taco” with smoked pork, cabbage, pico, cilantro, chili lime, and white sauce. You get two tacos per order, so bring a friend and share several plates.

3. Runaway Island

If beachfront dining is on your PCB bucket list, then you need to stop at Runaway Island. The back deck is perched on the sand offering views of the beach and waves as you dine on umbrella-shaded tables.

What To Order At Runaway Island

You can make a meal of the Baja rolls appetizer — you won’t want to share them. The rolls are filled with blackened chicken, corn, spinach, black beans, and cheese fried to perfection and served with a sweet Thai dipping sauce.

The blackened mahi taco served with cabbage, cilantro ranch, and pico de gallo, and the shrimp tacos filled with fried shrimp, cabbage, and a lime cilantro aioli and pico de gallo are a celebration of the Florida seafood and sunshine.

4. Capt. Anderson’s Restaurant & Waterfront Market

Capt. Anderson’s Restaurant & Waterfront Market is more than simply one of the best restaurants in PCB, it is an institution. This family-run establishment has been serving fresh seafood flavors since 1967.

What To Order At Capt. Anderson’s Restaurant & Waterfront Market

The restaurant serves hundreds of people each night, so you will have time to sip a drink at the bar while waiting for your table. The piña colada is cool and sweet, served in a take-home souvenir glass. It is a fun way to celebrate your vacation getaway.

Their extensive menu is all about serving the freshest seafood. For starters, try the sesame-crusted ahi tuna kissed by the grill. With so many delicious options, it is difficult to narrow them down. The grouper imperial with fresh lump blue crab and the filet of snapper are house specialties and excellent choices. If you are in the mood for a turf plate, the tomahawk ribeye or the filet mignon are cooked to perfection.

5. American Charlie Grill & Tavern

American Charlie Grill & Tavern serves classic American cuisine just the way you want it — super tasty.

What To Order At American Charlie Grill & Tavern

If you are looking for a sumptuous plate of pub grub, order the Uncle Sam Jam, a double beef patty with American cheese, mushrooms, bacon, and queso blanco. You will need to open wide for this burger. Pair it with some beautifully fried onion rings or crinkle-cut french fries for an all-American classic pub dinner.

For dessert, finish your meal off with a throwback: a classic root beer float.

6. Sharky’s Beachfront Restaurant

Sharky’s Beachfront Restaurant is difficult to miss. It’s the place with the larger-than-life shark posing picture-perfectly for your iconic PCB photo opportunity. Buckle up, your beachfront dining experience is about to commence.

What To Order At Sharky’s Beachfront Restaurant

Go in for the gumbo — shrimp, crawfish, andouille sausage, and chicken served over rice in a spicy gumbo sauce. If that’s too hot, try the shrimp ceviche — lime juice-marinated shrimp served with tomatoes, cilantro, cucumbers, onions, jalapenos, and tortilla chips. It’s perfectly chilled for lunch on a scorching Florida day.

Po’ boy sandwiches are just what you want for on-the-beach food. Order a shrimp po’ boy, or if you are feeling a little adventurous, try the Gator po’ boy; that’s right, alligator nuggets fried to a golden brown. Both are served on a hoagie roll with a spicy remoulade sauce.

7. Rollin Cuban

The Rollin Cuban is a food truck on the move in PCB. Authentic Cuban cuisine on the go is the way they roll. You need to follow them on Facebook to see where they are serving up lunch. Hunting them down is half the fun.

What To Order At Rollin Cuban

I love Cuban cuisine and at Rollin Cuban, their Cubano — a Cuban ham and cheese sandwich — is killer. The beef empanadas are delicious as well. What’s not to love about hand-held beef pies?

8. The Juicy Seafood

Across the south, The Juicy Seafood is known for its Cajun-inspired cuisine served in a casual, family-friendly atmosphere.

What To Order At The Juicy Seafood

You can order your food just how you like it. Pick a protein like blue crab or crawfish. Then, decide what type of seasoning you want from options like Cajun or lemon pepper. Finally, you can choose the heat level — from no spice to extra hot and everything in between. It’s all custom-made for your dining enjoyment.

9. RC Weddings + Events

Now, I know you are saying to yourself, “Why is a catering company in a food story about delicious local restaurants?” Well, I was at the PCB UnWineD festival and saw this stunning tray of passion fruit cocktails. Made with Chinola passion fruit liquor, vanilla vodka, and Cava with tupelo honey and spicy Tajin, it was amazing!

RC Wedding + Events caters weddings but also family reunions. Since PCB is a fabulous spot for a multi-generational vacation, you would want at least one meal where everyone could gather together, right? RC Wedding + Events will organize the location, food, and beverages — all you have to do is show up. Sounds like a family getaway I want to attend.

Hampton Inn & Suites Panama City Beach-Beachfront

After you have eaten all the great food in PCB, it’s time to find a spot to rest your head and enjoy the glorious Florida beaches. The Hampton Inn & Suites Panama City Beach-Beachfront is the perfect spot for family gatherings and multi-gen getaways. It is right on the beach where you can enjoy all the toes-in-the-sand fun and simply walk back to your cozy room for a mid-day siesta.

Pro Tip: There are two Hampton Inn & Suites in PCB. Be sure to check out the one called Beachfront.

Panama City Beach Restaurants

Casual dining with expertly prepared local seafood is the hallmark of restaurants in the Panama City Beach area. More than just a family beach vacation spot, PCB is a burgeoning foodie town offering diners variety and value in their restaurant selections.

Related Reading:

• 15 Fabulous Panama City Beach Vacation Rentals On Florida’s Gulf Coast
• One Of Florida’s Most Popular Destinations Just Announced It’s Prioritizing Accessibility
• 7 Reasons Panama City Beach Is Fun For The 50+ Crowd

The Texas Hill Country is famous for vast open spaces accented by huge old oak trees and delightful small towns, many of them with a strong German history. Most people visit the Hill Country to enjoy the nature trails, state parks, cool spring-fed rivers, art and culture scenes, and a general feeling of peace that wraps you like a warm blanket on a chilly night.

However, there’s a burgeoning wine scene in the Hill Country that is gaining the attention of wine enthusiasts and serious oenophiles. There are over 100 wineries and vineyards in the Hill Country with about half located along Texas Highway 290, also known as Wine Road 290, as well as many other scenic back roads.

I’ve chosen six wineries to share with you for their gorgeous views, ambiance, and excellent wine made with 100-percent Texas-grown fruit. All wines mentioned are available for purchase online.

Insider Info: You will definitely need a car to visit these wineries or you can book a winery tour. Fredericksburg is a good place to base yourself, just be sure to book accommodations well in advance. Probably the best tip I can give you is don’t try to visit more than two wineries per day, especially if you are driving. In fact, the places I’ve chosen are the kinds of places you’ll want to relax in, not rush off to the next place. So relax. You’re in Texas now.

1. Bending Branch Winery

Comfort

Located on a winding country road, in the hills around Comfort, Texas, Bending Branch Winery welcomes you to their estate tasting room with panoramic views for miles. It’s the kind of view that will soon have you pondering if you should get a little spot in Texas to call your own.

Bending Branch utilizes a number of cutting-edge methods of production such as flash detente and cryo-maceration. Owner Dr. Bob Young, a graduate of the U.C. Davis Winemaker Certification program with a degree in chemistry, likes to say, “Bending Branch aims to produce the best possible wine no matter what grapes are grown.” If anyone knows how to coax the best possible showing from wine grapes, Dr. Young does.

Bending Branch has received national recognition for its wines and tasting room experience: Double Gold for the 2019 Tannat Tallent Vineyards at the 2023 San Francisco Wine Chronicle competition and Silver for 2019 Tannat Newsom Vineyards; and Best Texas Winery for 4 years in a row by San Antonio Express-News. 

And speaking of Tannat — a highly tannic red wine that thrives in Texas — in the hands of Dr. Young, Tannat becomes approachable. Dare I say even soft?

But be sure to try all of the options on the tasting menu, tannat isn’t the only stellar wine being produced by Bending Branch. Although, I admit I am partial to the sparkling rosé of Tannat which tasted like a strawberry Jolly Rancher.

Bending Branch is open for tastings by appointment, or you can pick up a bottle at the estate tasting room. 

• Wine To Try: 2019 Tannat — all bottlings.

2. Pedernales Cellars 

Stonewall

Pedernales Cellars is an estate winery with 154 acres of rolling hills punctuated by live oak trees and stunning views of the Pedernales River Valley.

By focusing from the beginning on grape varieties that do well in Texas, Pedernales Cellars consistently wins national awards and recognition. Their 2020 Grenache, 2019 Valhalla, and 2019 Cariganane all received silver medals at the 2023 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition. 

They have recently completed updates to the tasting room and are expanding their food offerings to include a full-time food truck on site.

Dogs are welcome as long as they are on a leash; however, they are not allowed inside the tasting room.

Sustainability is an important part of the business and is carried through from the vineyards to the construction of the tasting room to the packaging. Pedernales Cellars was named a Top 10 Winery by National Geographic in 2014.

Pedernales Cellars is located off Highway 290, and is only about 10 minutes from downtown Fredericksburg,

• Wine To Try: 2020 Grenache

3. William Chris 

Hye

William Chris was founded by Chris Brundrett and Bill (William) Blackmon, who were recently recognized by Wine Enthusiast as “producers redefining American wine.” William Chris focuses on low-intervention wine production meaning they let the fruit speak for itself. They specialize in Rhone varieties like mourvedre and grenache, as well as varieties from Spain, France, and Italy.

Located just off Highway 290, the property has 6.5 acres of vineyards, tables spread out under shade trees, and a state-of-the-art facility for wine club members. Picnic lunches are available as well as a variety of tasting experiences by appointment. However, you don’t need an appointment to enjoy the vineyard views at an outdoor table with a bottle of wine.

• Wine To Try: 2019 Syrah High Cross Vineyard

4. Duchman Winery 

Driftwood

Named one of the 20 most picturesque wineries in the United States by HGTV, Duchman Family Winery is a pretty property with an Italian villa-style tasting facility complemented by a grove of oak trees providing plenty of shady picnic spots.

Duchman focuses primarily on Italian varieties like vermentino, sangiovese, and dolcetto.

I was curious to try the wines because of my keen interest in all things Italian, even before I learned of their many awards.

However, the moment I arrived and saw the impressive Tuscan-style building that serves as the tasting room, the extensive lawn scattered with picnic tables, and people spreading out their blankets under the trees, I was hooked.

Duchman Family Winery has won numerous awards and even beat the Italians by winning a Gold medal for their 2018 Vermentino at the San Francisco International Wine Competition. The Aglianico is a red Italian wine with dark-red fruit flavors and bold tannins that pairs well with food. In fact, Duchman is unique in offering a number of food options — many are made fresh on site.

You can order handmade pizzas, cheese, and charcuterie along with picnic boxes that include things like Pimento cheese, pasta salad, or mozzarella sandwiches.

Duchman is open 7 days a week and until 8 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, making it a great place for date night. They regularly offer music, trivia, and game nights, and in October, they host movie nights on the lawn. 

• Wine To Try: 2016 Aglianico Oswald Vineyards

5. Sandy Road Vineyards 

Johnson City

One of the most unique tasting experiences I’ve had recently was with winemaker Regan Sivadon in a treehouse overlooking the vineyards at Sandy Road. Not only is Regan making great wine — that treehouse experience is a winner!

Sandy Road began with a vision of sharing great Texas wines and the serenity the owners experienced while growing up on their grandparents’ 100-year-old property.

Regan has been in the wine business for decades and is associate winemaker at Ron Yates and Spicewood. And while he loves his work there, Regan wanted to make a product that he has complete control over, a wine he could put his heart and soul into without limitations.

At Sandy Road the goal is 100 percent Texas wine from Texas fruit, sustainably and responsibly grown. Be sure to try the 2022 Estate GSM Pet Nat wine. It’s refreshing and loaded with ripe fruit flavors and pairs perfectly with the treehouse. Read more about Pet Nat wines here.

The Sandy Road Vineyards Estate Sangiovese Rosé is always an award winner as it was in the 2022-2023 San Antonio Rodeo International Wine Competition, along with the 2021 Albarino and the 2019 Estate Sangiovese. 

 At Sandy Road the focus is on Southern Italian, French, and Spanish varieties and producing wine that reflects the sense of place, hard work, and passion of the owners.

• Wine To Try: Sandy Road Vineyards Estate Sangiovese 2021

6. Siboney Cellars

Johnson City

Located just off of Highway 290, aka Wine Road 290, four miles west of Johnson City, the drive up to the new Siboney Cellars tasting room and terrace takes you past a stand of heritage oak trees and recently planted merlot vineyards. Once you arrive at the terrace you can enjoy the views of this gorgeous 52-acre hill country property.

Winemaker Barbara Lecuona is producing award-winning wines from French, Italian, and Spanish grape varieties. Though her first wines were bottled in 2017, the current winery property opened to the public in 2021. The new space includes a barrel room — an elegant room for wine club members — an outdoor terrace, and an indoor tasting room. 

Siboney Cellars (pronounced SEE-Bo-Nay) is a love story with a Latin plot, though the grapes are 100% Texas fruit. Owners Barbara and Miguel Lecuona named the winery for the eponymous Cuban love song written by Miguel’s great uncle. The winery is an expression of their passion for each other and for winemaking. 

• Wine To Try: 2020 Malbec Challis Vineyards

More On Texas Hill Country:

• The Best Things To See And Do In Fredericksburg, Texas
• 11 Beautiful Caverns To Visit In Texas Hill Country
• 9 Best Things To Do In Beautiful Marble Falls, TX

Is there anything better than Italian food? Pizza, pasta, risotto, truffles, and all that wine make it what is most likely the most loved cuisine in the world. I mean, do you know a city without an Italian restaurant? Of course not. But eating Italian food in Italy is even better. The pasta is more al dente, the ingredients more authentic and fresh, and, chances are, there is actually a nonna in the kitchen cooking away. 

Every region in Italy has its own specialties, which shine more there than anywhere else, but overall, it is quite certain that you will eat well wherever you go. And that is as true in Milan as it is in the rest of Italy.

Here I have listed some of my tried-and-tested places to enjoy a drink, breakfast, lunch, and dinner. They vary from a café inside a mall to a lovely restaurant in a gorgeous hotel, from a little place locals frequent to a terrace loved by tourists but still serving great food. In no particular order, you will not be disappointed by any of these.

1. Terrazza Aperol

Let’s start with my favorite first thing to do in a great city: sit on a terrace with a great view and a local cocktail in hand. In Milan, this leads you straight to Terrazza Aperol, literally next door to the fabulous Galleria Vittorio Emmanuele II and right by the Duomo. On the second floor, the terrace has simply the most spectacular views of the cathedral, you can sit in the sunshine, and the oh-so-Italian spritz is perfectly refreshing. There is simply no better place to start your visit to Milan.

What To Order: The clue is in the name, and the Aperol spritz is perfect, but there are also other choices of cocktails, spritz, prosecco, wine, or non-alcoholic drinks. A must-do is to order an aperitivo: a platter of nibbles that accompanies your drink. This is a typical pre-dinner antipasti tradition, and, if you are not too hungry, it is large enough to count as dinner. You get little sandwiches, meatballs, dough pockets, and there is also a vegetarian option.

Pro Tip: Downstairs, at ground level, have a look at the sandwiches in the vitrine of the Mercado del Duomo. These are substantial and really good, perfect for a cheap snack or picnic on the go. 

2. Naviglio 48

Right by the canal in the Navigli neighborhood, there are countless restaurants, most with seating outside and most offering typical Italian pizza and pasta for the hungry visitors that come to the district for its charm, markets, and restaurants. It is often very much hit-and-miss trying to find a decent restaurant when visiting abroad, as with everywhere unless you have local knowledge, but usually, the guests give you a clue. 

Naviglio 48 is frequented by more Italians than foreigners, and that is always a good sign. You can sit outside in the sunshine or inside in the quirkily decorated dining room, complete with piano and historic champagne cases. But my favorite spot is in the open window, technically inside, but so close to the outside that you can see everything going on from your slightly higher vantage point while benefiting from the inside shade.

What To Order: I always make a beeline for anything to do with truffle and/or mushrooms, and here, the pappardelle al funghi porcini e tartufo hit the spot. Start off with a mozzarella salad or the tartare di tonno al pistacchio tuna tartare and you can’t go wrong.

Pro Tip: Don’t forget to read the daily specials on the blackboard; always fresher than anything else.

3. Bebel

Napoli has its pizza, Rome its cacio e pepe, and Milan its risotto. You’ll find it on pretty much every menu, but, as with everything, it always depends on who is preparing it and for whom. Head away from the touristy spots to a local restaurant such as Bebel, which is in fact steps away from Il Caffe Ambrosiano mentioned below. Here you have no fancy décor, but each table is filled with families from the neighborhood, and you always have people already standing outside when they open at 7 p.m. Bebel is one of those places without a terrace, without anything to advertise it from the outside, but with all the charm of a typical Italian neighborhood eatery on the inside.

What To Order: For starters, have the grilled vegetables, which come with some grilled Scamorza cheese, a smoked cheese not unlike halloumi but without the squeak. And then, try the risotto alla Milanese, a simple plateful of yellow rice. Looks boring, but as it is flavored and colored with saffron, the taste is subtle and very good. And when in Milan…

Pro Tip: Order the house wine; it’s very good, very affordable, and available by the glass.

4. Il Caffe Ambrosiano (Bar Tavola Fredda)

When it comes to breakfast, the Italians like it sweet and light. So, what better than a traditional café with a vitrine full of croissants, biscuits, cakes, and all sorts of other sweet things, most of which I made my research project to try? Il Caffe Ambrosiano — right next to the National Leonardo da Vinci Science and Technology Museum and steps away from my hotel — is a little haven with superb coffee. Here, locals all know each other and take half an hour to order their drink because they all chat so much. Ambrosiano truly has the best croissants I have eaten in a very long time, and, having lived in Paris for years, that is saying something.

What To Order: Order the plain croissants, the shortbread biscuits, the canestrelli, the prussianes, and basically everything they have. Eat the croissants with your coffee and take a bag full of other goodies with you for the day.

Pro Tip: This is a family-run café, and despite the popular museum next door, they are closed on Sundays.

5. Bugandé

Part of the lovely Hotel Maison Borella, a historic place to stay right on the canal Naviglio Grande, is the Bugandé restaurant. Beautifully set tables inside and out, it is the ancient setting inside that is a must-see. There are wooden beams on the ceiling, stone walls, and they employed a quirky way to decorate the ancient surroundings and make them stand out even more by placing ceramic plates on the ceiling and covering one wall with small mirrors. There are small details everywhere, from ceramic birds to small displays of fresh flowers. It might all sound crazy and too bohemian for an elegant restaurant, but it really works. The food is traditionally Italian — maybe slightly more upmarket but no more expensive than other restaurants along the canal — and the ambiance is wonderful.

What To Order: Whatever their daily pasta special is; just trust me.

Pro Tip: Tables by the canal get the full sunshine and can get very hot, if you prefer outside to inside. Ask if the cute little courtyard is open.

6. Glacomo Arengario

Do you want something quite special with a stupendous view? Head straight to the Museo de Novecento, opposite the Galleria Vittorio Emmanuele III and Terrazza Aperol. Head up either elevator or along the spiral ramp, which is very Guggenheim, and marvel at the floor-to-ceiling windows. They are a sight to see in themselves. But look through them and there is the galleria straight ahead and the Duomo to your right. The views really do not get any better. The inside is a mix of early 19th-century design and cozy English country club, but sitting by the windows and the slightly dark setting gives way to incredible light. Book ahead to get a table in the front row.

What To Order: Start with the sea bass ceviche and then dive into the pasta, gnocchi, or risotto primi piatti, followed by the monkfish. The good thing about this restaurant is that it might look like it would be tourist bait with its views, but it serves Michelin-guide-recommended food at doable prices. And the wine list is extensive.

Pro Tip: Don’t miss the museum shop — and the museum, of course — on the way out. They have some fun souvenirs to take home.

7. Peck

My last choice is a nice little delicatessen restaurant where you not only get a choice of great coffees and wine but also a selection of lunchtime options in CityLife mall at Tre Torri. Peck is a great place to go after some shopping; to rest and recharge. Other than in most Italian restaurants, where you tend to overeat and even the smallest plate of pasta makes you feel a little too lethargic to continue sightseeing, here you can have something light and healthy and keep going.

What To Order: Either a plate of charcuterie, Italian meats, and/or cheeses with some fresh focaccia, or the sandwiches, which are stuffed with fresh ingredients.

Related Reading:

• My 6 Favorite Places To Eat In Florence, Italy
• My 6 Favorite Restaurants On Capri, Italy
• My 7 Favorite Restaurants To Experience In Sorrento, Italy

Israel is known for its fresh and flavorful food. Vibrant produce, aromatic spice-led dishes, and vegan fare make up the core of Israel’s culinary canon, but there’s something else the visitor should know about it: The country has an array of utterly delicious baked specialties. (It makes sense when you think of how many Jewish grandmothers there are in the country.)

Little baked goods are called mapas in Hebrew, and you’ll see countless small shops, kiosks, and bakeries — from modern ones to old-school and generational versions selling sweet treats and unusual bread. However, mapas and bread, either savory or sweet, really help tell the story of this country of immigrants from all four corners of the earth.

Here are nine of my favorite baked goods in Israel and the best places to try them. 

1. Boureka

Burekas Penso

The Levinsky Spice Market in southern Tel Aviv is something everyone, not just foodies, should visit because it tells so many stories of people coming to the country. Early 20th-century Greek immigrants, Holocaust survivors, Iranian Jews who immigrated from Tehran to sell Iranian saffron, and generations of family bakers are the kinds of vendors you see along this colorful market street.

In the middle of it all, at Levinsky 46, is Burekas Penso, specializing in bourekas, the flaky, hand-held savory pies filled with potatoes, spinach, salty cheese, and other stuffings that came to Israel by way of Turkish immigrants. The current owner, Yocahi Panso, is a fourth-generation boureka baker who makes them by hand with all the traditional fillings

Pro Tip: Try the traditional potato boureka; grab a table just outside and watch the market mayhem. Fridays are an especially great time to view as people shop before the beginning of the Sabbath. 

2. Jachnun

Jachnun Mul Hayam, Tel Aviv; Jachnun Bar, Jerusalem

Jachnun is a slightly sweet and very rich bread so buttery that it’s almost a pastry. It comes from Israel’s Yemenite Jewish community. The dish is one of many slow-cooked for Shabbat (Sabbath on Saturday mornings). Jachnun is typically prepared the day before and baked in the oven on low heat overnight for a hot dish to eat on the Sabbath day when lighting fires is prohibited. 

The dough is made of flour, white sugar, and water, rolled out thinly, coated liberally with margarine or butter, and then rolled back up. Typically, it’s served with roasted eggs; these are often cooked in the oven along with the bread.

Jachnun’s popularity has spread beyond the Yemenite community and you can now find it all over the country even at roadside stalls and in the grocer’s frozen food aisles. It’s also become a popular brunch staple at restaurants. 

In my opinion, the best (short of someone’s home cooking) can be found at Jachnun Mul Hayam in Tel Aviv and at Jachnun Bar in Jerusalem.

3. Challah

Berman Bakery, Jerusalem

Probably the best-known Jewish baked good, challah is the braided bread loaf, traditionally eaten by Jewish families on Friday nights (the evening of Shabbat). 

A good challah is just the right balance of doughy and fluffy, slightly sweet and golden brown on the outside. It’s often covered with sesame or poppy seeds but can also be plain. Most families can claim at least one great challah maestro among them.

Of course, it’s better to eat this bread hot out of the oven around a crowded table full of family and friends. And nothing beats homemade, but that isn’t a typically available experience for travelers. So it’s good to know you can get very authentic, homemade-tasting challah at the longtime Jerusalem eatery Berman Bakery. Their challah is also known as their signature house bread. You may come for the challah, but a warning: You’ll be tempted by the many other pastries and breads in the shop.

4. Knafeh

Uri Buri Restaurant, Acre; Yaffah Knafeh, Jaffa

Knafeh is a traditional Arab dessert, originating in Nablus. It’s made of a spun pastry called kataifi, which is soaked in a sweet honey-based syrup, mixed with a sweet cheese, and typically topped with chopped pistachio.

Makers of this refined and delicious dessert indulge in a healthy competition for the prize of the best. I’ve had several memorable ones, including at Uri Buri fish restaurant in Acre, the ancient port city in the north. The restaurant is owned by the legendary Uri Jeremiah and it’s a destination restaurant.

Uri Buri’s knafeh is next level but it comes at the end of a meal. When I want to eat knafeh on the go, I like Yaffah Knafeh in Old Jaffa, the conjoined city of Tel Aviv. Yaffah Knafeh is a small cave-like restaurant with a big following thanks to its fantastic knafeh.

5. Rugelach 

Marzipan Bakery At Machne Yehuda Market, Jerusalem

Rugelach is something like Jewish pain au chocolat — a small, rolled crescent filled with chocolate (or alternatively jam or cinnamon). It’s a great little treat to have with a cup of coffee in the afternoon.

You can get some of the country’s best at Marzipan Bakery in the colorful Machne Yehuda Market in Jerusalem. Little wonder that this merchant is one of the market’s most popular. The fantastic smell of hot-out-of-the-oven rugelach draws crowds.

I can rarely resist biting right into one of the warm, buttery, chocolatey, and gooey crescents made with quality ingredients. I always remember to bring wet wipes with me as my shirt is often a casualty.

6. Maamoul Cookies

Spice Market, Nazareth

The ancient Levantine Maamoul cookie has been an important part of religious holidays for Muslims, Christians, and Sephardic — mostly Moroccan — Jews. It ushers in Easter, Eid, and Purim.

Maamoul cookie dough is made with semolina flour and then pressed into special maamoul molds that are typically carved of wood. These molds can be found in predominantly Arab markets such as the bustling market in Nazareth. The mold’s patterns are often representative of the time of year the cookies are being made; for example, Jesus’s crown of thorns at Easter.

The dough is stuffed with dates or walnuts, rosewater or orange blossom water, and the cookies are eaten while they’re soft, crumbly, and buttery.

Pro Tip: Matkonation, a tour group and food blog started by two American expats, does wonderful food tours of the Nazareth market as well as great food photography workshops. 

7. Cheesecake, Poppy Seed Cake, And Orange Cake

The Drisco Hotel, Tel Aviv

One of the great culinary experiences in Israel is the hotel breakfast buffet. These spreads defy imagination and the limits of your morning appetite. Long buffet tables are heaving with fresh fruit, eggs, cheeses, yogurt, fish, dips, olives, salads, pastries, and more. However, most hotels in Israel adhere to kosher food law, so there won’t be any mixing of milk and meat, and no bacon or pork products at all.

These breakfasts are incredible once or twice, but after a while, they can be overwhelming. The Drisco Hotel — located in a very unique neighborhood of Tel Aviv called the American Colony — offers a more elegant and refined version of the breakfast spread.

Highlights are their extraordinary versions of well-known Jewish cakes such as cheesecake, poppy seed cake, and orange cake. (Delicious!) I like to try a little slice of each.

8. Haute Couture Pastries 

High Tea, Jaffa Hotel Jaffa

High tea isn’t a typical Israeli tradition, but it fits perfectly at the Jaffa Hotel, a stunning luxury hotel that was built on the site of a French hospice. It also incorporates an extraordinarily refurbished chapel. That is the setting of one of the most incredible high teas you’ll ever experience, short of Buckingham Palace. 

The tea’s pastries are brought to you by Alon Shabo, Tel Aviv star pastry chef, whose contemporary modernist concoctions are inspired by architecture and design. The beautiful treats are even more beautiful against the backdrop of the chapel’s marble floors, stunning sky-blue vaulted ceilings, and stained-glass windows.

Pro Tip: The hotel’s signature orange scent is an homage to the Jaffa orange, once the backbone of Israel’s export economy. It’s a beautiful fragrance available to purchase as an incense or liquid soap.

9. Kaak Bread 

Abouelafia Bakery, Jaffa

Not far from the Jaffa Hotel is Abouelafia Bakery, one of the most famous bakeries in the country. 

The bakery, owned by the Abouelafia family and dating back to 1879, cooks up rounds of pita sprinkled with zaatar and sesame seeds, baklava, and triangle sesame-puffed “kaak bread” filled with different kinds of cheese. The warm and welcoming staff invite you to try and taste different things. Basically, anything you buy here will be fantastic!

Related Reading:

• 11 Delicious Foods To Try In Tel Aviv And Where To Find Them
• My 4 Favorite Experiences Visiting Beautiful Tel Aviv
• 7 Reasons You Need To Put Israel On Your Travel Bucket List

One of the best parts about a getaway is dining out. You can happily explore unique flavors and local ingredients without the muss or fuss of cooking and cleaning up. When you add interesting dining experiences with amazing water views, it is a delightful foodie-lover win.

Choosing where to eat can be a challenge when visiting a new-to-you destination. I have always had the best luck when I chat with local residents and find out where they like to enjoy a great meal. After spending some quality time in the beautiful Lake Placid region — and chatting with many locals — the waterfront restaurants below are my favorite ways to enjoy the local cuisine while soaking in stunning views of the area’s lakes and rivers.

My list of Lake Placid’s most popular restaurants with a water view is in no particular order.

Note: Some information in this piece was obtained during a sponsored press trip, but all recommendations are my own.

1. Boathouse Saranac Lake Pub

Alfresco dining on the deck of the Boathouse Saranac Lake Pub overlooking the picturesque Lake Flower sets the vacation mood on chill. With a casual lakeside vibe and delicious menu, you will love this fabulous #LakeLife restaurant.

What To Order At Boathouse Saranac Lake Pub

The Colossal Shrimp Cocktail is the perfect starter. They are huge — bigger than big — and you can order as many as you would like to share with your dinner companions. For a hearty meal, the Boathouse Burger is a decadent and delicious option. It features locally raised Donahue beef, pulled pork, applewood bacon, Vermont cheddar cheese, pickled peppers, and a three-cheese béchamel sauce served on a brioche bun with a side of perfectly cooked French fries.

Pro Tip: The Boathouse Saranac Lake Pub is connected to the Saranac Waterfront Lodge — a new lakefront hotel. It is tucked away from the downtown hustle but easily walkable to the Saranac Lake restaurants and attractions.

2. The Cottage Restaurant And Cafe

The Cottage Restaurant and Cafe sits on the edge of peaceful Mirror Lake. The view from the outdoor seating area and window seats in the dining room are a breathtaking panorama of Mirror Lake with the Great Range of the Adirondack High Peaks lining up to showcase a multi-peak backdrop. The Cottage Restaurant and Cafe offers the best combination of casual dining, great food, friendly service, and stunning lake views.

What To Order At The Cottage Restaurant And Cafe

I devoured the mildly spicy Thai shrimp tacos; they were so delicious. Three bountifully filled flour tortillas piled high with shrimp, a crispy slaw, and a spicy aioli. Another great option is the Cottage Style Reuben. It’s served open-faced on marbled rye bread, piled high with smoked meat, Swiss cheese, and coleslaw, and topped with Thousand Island dressing.

Pro Tip: The charming Cottage Restaurant is located across the street from the prominent Mirror Lake Inn. The inn offers guests expansive panoramic views of beautiful Mirror Lake.

3. Fusion Market

A lakeside picnic is one of the best ways to enjoy a beautiful day, a gorgeous lake view, and great food. At the Fusion Market, located across the street from the Lake Flower Boat Launch, you can order a grab-and-go lunch for a picnic on the lake. There are benches, picnic tables, and plenty of green grass where you can sit, relax, and enjoy your lunch.

What To Order At Fusion Market

Build your own cold sub with all the fixins or enjoy one of their hot dishes. Classics like mac ‘n cheese bites, a Philly cheesesteak, or a good old-fashioned grilled tuna sandwich are quick and simple — just what you want for a nosh by the lake.

Pro Tip: Fusion Market also has a nice selection of craft beers, hard ciders, and hard seltzers.

4. Lakeview Deli

Lakeview Deli, also across the street from the Lake Flower Boat Launch, is another great spot for a picnic basket lunch. Lakeview’s eclectic menu and easy access to the lake are perfect for a casual getaway outdoor dining adventure.

What To Order At Lakeview Deli

Order from their daily menu and treat your tastebuds to an explosion of flavors. The bahn mi sandwich — dressed with chili garlic mayo and Asian slaw — is a blast of flavor. The smoked gobbler is a trifecta of ham, turkey, and bacon, with Swiss cheese, Russian dressing, and cranberry sauce; delicious. When the pie-of-the-day is chocolate peanut butter pie, make sure you save room for a slice.

Pro Tip: The line of locals ordering sandwiches to-go at Lakeview Deli tells the whole story: They serve exceptional and delicious food.

5. the breakfast club, etc

There is always a line out the door at the breakfast club, etc during the high season, and for a good reason. Open for breakfast and lunch, this casual joint is constantly filled with happy guests enjoying the lakefront view and munching on plates filled with delectable food.

What To Order At the breakfast club, etc

Famous for their mouthwatering röstis, you won’t need to eat lunch after you devour a cast-iron skillet of their corned beef and cheddar rösti. Made with homemade corned beef hash, sharp cheddar, two eggs, and home-fried potatoes all drizzled with hollandaise and served with a side of sour cream, it is a hearty vacation breakfast.

Pro Tip: If you are traveling during the off-season, your wait shouldn’t be too long since you will be dining with more locals than tourists. If you go during the summer months, be prepared to queue up, but it is definitely worth the wait.

6. Lisa G’s

Tucked a little ways off the main drag, Lisa G’s is the restaurant all the locals love. Highly recommended by several shopkeepers, it is easy to see why Lisa G’s holds a special place in their hearts. Excellent food, locally owned, and far enough away from the tourists to be too crowded, Lisa G’s is only a secret to visitors who won’t venture off the main drag.

What To Order At Lisa G’s

If you love chicken wings and some variety, you will have a difficult time choosing what to order. The Truffalo wings have a medium heat with notes of truffle and blue cheese. Other options include a Greek-style wing, Bayou Buffalo with Cajun spice, salt and vinegar style, and of course, the classic Buffalo wings. Pizza, sandwiches, and plated entrées round out the simply delicious menu.

Grab your friends, order your favorite beverage, and select all the wings options to share and compare.

Pro Tip: Lisa G’s offers a pet-friendly deck and porch so your fur baby can join you while you dine and enjoy views of the Chub River waterfall.

7. Big Mountain Deli & Creperie

In the center of downtown Lake Placid are the Paul White Memorial Shell and a beautiful green park along the banks of Mirror Lake. It is a lovely spot to enjoy Lake Placid’s natural beauty and have an al fresco picnic. It’s where Big Mountain Deli & Creperie comes into play. Located on Main Street, it is perfectly situated for a grab-and-go, top-notch lunch.

What To Order At Big Mountain Deli & Creperie

Big Mountain Deli & Creperie offers classic sandwiches with an intriguing twist. Try the Rocky Peak made with maple honey ham, smoked cheddar, apples, and apple butter. Perhaps the Esther is more your style — filled with liverwurst, provolone, and red onion topped with cracked pepper mayo and spicy brown mustard.

It is a creperie too, and there is a tantalizing selection of sweet and savory crepes. I love the key lime pie crepe made with their homemade lime custard and graham cracker crumbs topped off with whipped cream and raspberry sauce. A wonderful savory take is their pastrami hash ‘n egg crepe filled with homemade pastrami hash, melted cheddar, and fried eggs.

Pro Tip: Lake Placid has a walkable downtown area, including the Lake Placid Olympic Museum. With a little patience, you may find free on-street parking, however, Main Street has lots of spaces offered at a reasonable fee. You can park, walk, look around, and picnic in one easy park.

Lake Placid Area Water View Restaurants

Lake Placid and Saranac Lake are filled with beautiful lakes and some of the best restaurants for water-view dining. Whether you prefer a fine dining experience, a rustic and friendly pub meal, or an afternoon picnic by the lake, you will find great options in the Lake Placid area.

A trip to Japan is full of wonderful experiences — cherry blossoms, hot springs, temples and shrines, castles, gardens, karaoke, and… exquisite culinary adventures. Japan is second only to France for the most Michelin-starred restaurants in the world. When thinking about Japanese food, most people picture sushi, sashimi, and tempura. As we discovered, there is so much more.

Before arriving, we consulted with our friends and colleagues in Japan to plan for a food tour of the country — Tokyo, Nagano, Kyoto, and Hiroshima. Our focus was on reasonably priced places where locals eat. We did, however, skip Osaka (an important food destination). Japan will be a place that we visit often, especially to sample more of its culinary offerings. Here’s a list of our favorite foods from Japan, in no particular order.

1. Sushi And Sashimi

Sushi is one of Japan’s worldwide exports. Often lumped together, sushi and sashimi are different dishes. Sushi is served over seasoned rice, while sashimi is served on a platter without rice. For a unique twist, try sushi at a stand-up restaurant in Tokyo station. Or, if you prefer sitting, try it at a conveyor belt sushi bar. Both styles are good for inexpensive, quick meals.

Where To Find Sushi And Sashimi 

• Tokyo Station at Uogashi Nihon Ichi
• Kyoto Station at Sushi No Musashi 

2. Ramen 

Noodles in Japan are a treat and slurping is the way to let the chef know that you are enjoying the food. Ramen, udon, and soba are the main types of noodles in Japan. Ramen is a thin wheat noodle typically served in a savory miso or soy sauce broth with slices of pork or tempura, egg, and seaweed. Our favorite ramen meals were black sesame ramen from Yudanaka Ramen Shop and wonderful duck ramen noodles in Kyoto.

Where To Find Ramen 

• Yudanaka Ramen Shop (a short drive from Snow Monkey Park) or Duck Noodles in Gion, Kyoto

3. Soba

Made with buckwheat, soba noodles are served hot or cold with vegetables, seafood, or pork. Chilled soba comes with a dipping sauce. Nagano is considered the best place to eat soba but we also enjoyed it in Tokyo and Kyoto.

Where To Find Soba 

• Second floor of the Ueno Train Station in Tokyo

4. Udon

Udon noodles are thick wheat noodles mostly served in a hot dashi (Japanese soup stock) broth with shrimp tempura, slices of fish cakes, and scallions. The noodles are hearty and chewy with a delicious broth.

Where To Find Udon 

• In Matsumoto at Mikami 

5. Tempura

Noodles are often served with tempura. Tempura is made with seafood or vegetables lightly battered with flour and deep-fried to a light crisp. You can also order tempura as a separate entrée. An alternative is a seafood or vegetable patty that has been deep-fried and is often served with noodle dishes.

6. Okonomiyaki

Okonomiyaki is a savory and popular street food made with flour, cabbage, and eggs topped with pork, chicken, seafood, or — in Hiroshima — oysters. The fried pancake is finished with mayonnaise and a sprinkling of dried bonito flakes.

We tried cooking okonomiyaki at Sakura-Tei in Tokyo. We made a mess but it was delicious. On Miyajima Island, Hiroshima, we ate the traditional okonomiyaki with oysters. No matter where you eat this dish, it is tasty and fun.

Where To Find Okonomiyaki

• In Tokyo at Sakura-Tei (cook yourself)
• On Miyajima Island at Momobros or any of the many places in the shopping area

7. Yakitori

An izakaya is a small, local bar for hanging out with friends. Most serve drinks and snacks. Freshly grilled over charcoal, yakitori is marinated chicken on a stick or skewer. Yakiton is skewered pork. Both are very tasty and go very well with beer. We were able to sample different types of yakitori and ton negima (pork belly) while hanging out with the locals along Ameyoko Street in Ueno, Tokyo.

Where To Find Yakitori

• In Ueno, Tokyo, on Ameyoko Street

8. Bento Box

Bento lunches are a staple among office workers throughout Japan. The lunches are beautifully packaged and can include rice or noodles, chicken, pork, eel or salmon, Japanese plum or pickles, radishes, seaweed, and even a few slices of fruit. It is a complete meal for lunch and is sold in grocery stores, convenience stores, and department stores. Ekibens — train station bento boxes — are sold on the platforms of train stations. We purchased ours on a train platform in Shin Kobi and at the Takashimaya department store in Tokyo.

Where To Find Bento Boxes 

• Takashimaya department stores in Tokyo

9. Yuba

Our Japanese friends recommended that we try yuba when we were in Kyoto. They never steered us wrong. Yuba is a tasty, stringy, and chewy tofu skin made from the top layer of boiled soy milk. It was almost like cheese with a chewy consistency.

Where To Find Yuba 

• At Nishiki Market and Sakura Terrace Gallery in Kyoto

10. Oysters

Hiroshima is known for oysters. If you go to Hiroshima, do not miss eating them. They are very fresh and some were as large as our palms. You can have them steamed, grilled, roasted, deep-fried, and raw. Try them one way, or like us, try them every way.

Where To Find Oysters

• In Hiroshima at Ekohiiki restaurant

11. Wagyu Beef

If you are a beef lover, you have to try wagyu beef in Japan. Soft and buttery, it melts in your mouth. The tender cuts of Japanese beef are cooked teppanyaki-style or grilled. Japan is known for Kobe beef but that’s not the only region that has amazing wagyu. We had incredible wagyu from Kyushu as well.

Where To Find Wagyu Beef

• In ShinKobe at Neiro
• In Kyoto at Sakura Terrace The Gallery 

12. Tonjiru Soup

Tonjiru is Japanese soul food cooked with pork and root vegetables like daikon, burdock, and carrot. It is commonly eaten during winter. We had the good fortune of enjoying homemade tonjiru in Tokyo. You can find it at many local restaurants throughout Japan.

13. Chestnut Creations

When you think of chestnuts, Japan is probably not the first place that comes to mind. Japan, however, has amazing chestnuts and chestnut pastries. If you are in Nagano prefecture, Obuse is the place to go to sample wonderful, airy, and mousse-like chestnut cream custard pastries and tea cakes. They are exquisite. They need to be immediately eaten so leave room in your stomach after sampling the nearby soba.

Where To Find Chestnut Pastries

• In Obuse, Mont Blanc is one of the oldest stores. There are others nearby as well. 

14. Momiji Manju

Momiji manju is a Japanese maple-leaf-shaped cake filled with adzuki red bean paste, matcha, chocolate, or custard. It is either baked or deep-fried. We had our first taste of momiji manju with friends on Miyajima Island. They insisted that we try the most traditional kind with red bean paste. We brought home many boxes of it. 

15. Oyaki

We loved oyaki — pan-fried dumplings made with chewy wheat dough. The savory ones were stuffed with chicken, mushrooms, and onions while the sweet ones had matcha, red bean cream, and cheese. They were perfect for breakfast and a staple of the Nagano prefecture. 

16. Obanzai

The 400-year-old Nishiki Market has over 100 stalls selling street food, snacks, and more. Wander the market sampling or go to a restaurant and try Kyoto’s traditional obanzai meal with several small dishes. Or, like us, do both. 

So Many More Dishes To Try

We loved discovering the breadth of food in Japan and we could have included so many more dishes. Taiyaki is a fish-shaped cake filled with matcha or adzuki red beans in Kyoto. Tonkatsu is a breaded deep-fried pork cutlet usually served with rice and cabbage on the side. Donburi is cooked meats or seafood like grilled eel over rice. Japanese food is so much more than sushi, sashimi, ramen, and tempura. Enjoy!

From adventure to relaxation, Fountain Hills is an exciting destination. It has scenic vistas, flourishing desert landscapes, countless outdoor recreation activities, and rich arts and culture.

The “fountain” from which Fountain Hills gets its name is one of the world’s tallest artificial fountains. The fountain sprays water from the center of Fountain Lake every hour for about 15 minutes and reaches 560 feet, which is 5 feet taller than the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, France.

No matter how often I visit, I make it a point to watch the fountain spray, whether I’m strolling on the street or sitting at a prime table in a restaurant.

Dining Options

Fountain Hills has over 60 dining options. Restaurants in Fountain Hills include popular cuisines like Asian, Mexican, Italian, and American. With plenty of bars, cafés, and coffee shops to catch up with friends for a quick bite or a recharging drink, you will find something to satisfy your appetite.

While I haven’t tried them all, the following are my favorite Fountain Hills restaurants from personal visits. They range from casual to upscale, and while they are numbered, there is no particular order.

Arrivederci Cucina Italiana and Adero Scottsdale Resort hosted me, but all opinions are my own.

1. Alexander’s Greek Kitchen

I felt like I had stepped onto a Greek Island when I walked in the door of Alexander’s Greek Kitchen. Greek music set the mood, as did the blue and white checkered tablecloths with white paper table protectors. Outdoor seating on the front deck provided an unobstructed view of the Fountain Lake and a ringside seat to see the fountain launch on the hour.

What To Order At Alexander’s

Alexander’s offers a traditional menu with hot and cold appetizers, salads and soups, and sides of Greek-style potatoes or green beans. Their skewers, house-made daily with pork, chicken, or lamb, can be ordered with pita, on a plate with a side, or vegetarian.

I had a black-eyed pea soup that was homemade that afternoon. Freshly toasted pita bread and a lemon wedge to squeeze over the soup were perfect for my appetite. I felt like I was in Mamma’s kitchen.

Select from various California, French, and Spanish wines at the bar. Many red, white, and rosé wines and champagnes hail from Greece, along with Greek beer on draft and bottled.

2. All American Sports Grill

I wanted to eat at All American Sports Grill because they have the best seat for the fountain viewing in the neighborhood. I wanted an adult beverage to go along with a nice fresh salad. I wanted to relax and enjoy the heat of the summer in the shade. I got everything I asked for, including the blueberry cucumber salad.

All American Amenities 

All American Sports Grill isn’t just a regular sports bar; it offers a covered patio with a clear view of the fountain, an energetic happy hour, live music, various craft and domestic beers, a full bar with handcrafted cocktails, over 50 HDTVs throughout the restaurant, and access to every available sports package. These features make it an ideal spot for sports fans to gather in a welcoming neighborhood environment.

3. Arrivederci Cucina Italiana

Italian cuisine is my favorite, and I appreciate good Italian food. When I stopped by Arrivederci Cucina Italiana and entered the lobby, I was immediately impressed with the dining room, the ultra-premium wine racks, and the sophisticated atmosphere. The view from the large windows of Fountain Lake was appealing. Strolling paths with public art surround the lake and make a great place to build up an appetite or walk off the calories after a delicious meal at Arrivederci.

What To Order At Arrivederci

Angelo made sure I had large portions of their signature dishes. When I requested their signature dish, I received pappardelle bolognese, lasagna, bread and pesto, and Choccamisu. It was enough for two people.

My authentic experience at Arrivederci matched the hospitality.

4. Cielo Restaurant 

Cielo Restaurant is located at the Adero Scottsdale Resort, technically in Scottsdale. However, the restaurant features prominently in the Fountain Hills Official Visitor’s Guide and must be included here. I’ve visited several times and it never disappointed.

Clinging to the side of McDowell Mountain, Adero Scottsdale Resort commands outstanding views of the Sonoran Desert, Four Peaks Mountain, Mount McDowell, and the fountain in Fountain Hills. The panorama windows from Cielo Restaurant and the sprawling outdoor terrace make the perfect setting for a cocktail, snack, or dinner.

Every meal at Cielo is artfully prepared, colorful, and appealing. The service is outstanding, and the servers are attentive and accommodating.

Adero Scottsdale Resort 

The best time of year to visit Adero Scottsdale Resort is spring and fall when the temps are pleasant and you can sit outside on the terrace. However, I was there in the summer once, and they have refreshing misters to counteract the triple-digit temperature. In winter, globes arranged on the grounds include champagne and music to create a unique outdoor experience overlooking the valley.

5. Crowning Glory

We think tea is a “girlie” thing, and primarily women participate, relishing this overabundance of carbs. However, I can’t imagine why anyone wouldn’t enjoy the flavors and textures of a world-class high tea at Crowning Glory Tearoom.

My friend and I were fortunate to be served by the owner, Sherry Boas. Sherry’s passion is unmatched in any other tea ritual I’ve seen. With religious overtones (it’s the only Catholic tearoom in the world), you don’t have to be a believer to enjoy the names and understand the history of every dish lovingly described to our eager ears. The décor reflects the lives of the saints and where they came from.

Crowning Glory Tea Services 

The heavenly tea service at Crowning Glory consists of three courses and endless tea. The first course includes a small salad with poppyseed dressing and tiny finger sandwiches like cucumber pimento cream cheese on white bread. The second course is two scones with Devonshire cream and cherry jam. The third course is cake (with gold frosting), tarts, and French cream with sugared grapes.

Crowning Glory offers a wide selection of black, green, oolong, and white teas. Several all-natural fruits, flowers, and caffeine-free teas are also available.

Pro Tip: Crowning Glory is only open on Saturdays for high tea dining and you must reserve 48 hours in advance. It’s worth the wait for the Saturday experience.

6. Desert Canyon Golf Club

Perched high in the hills of Fountain Hills and with an unlimited view of the mountains, Desert Canyon Golf Club was the first golf course in Fountain Hills. You don’t have to make a tee time or be a golfer to enjoy the food offerings.

What To Order At Desert Canyon 

Boasting the best street tacos in Fountain Hills, the chef takes pride in uniquely presenting basic food. I couldn’t resist and was glad I tried the tacos. They were fresh, crunchy, and served on little taco racks. The chef sliced the avocado into flawless, creamy, green, and healthy fats.

7. Georgie’s

Georgie’s is the quintessential coffee shop where locals and visitors are warmly welcomed. Giant scrabble letters decorate the wall, spelling “Georgie’s, good, food, breakfast, lunch.” Coffee mugs sport bumblebees with the phrase “bee kind.”

What To Order At Georgie’s 

Because I was there for breakfast, I was delighted with the extensive offering of skillets, sandwiches, griddles, and omelets. I chose the banana and Nutella pancakes. How can you miss when you go with chocolate, fruit, and pancakes?

8. Oka Sushi

Oka Sushi is a casual yet upscale Japanese restaurant. With a gorgeous pink flowering tree in the middle of the restaurant, one can imagine being in Japan during the spring cherry blossom festival.

What To Order At Oka 

In addition to the classic rolls, sashimi, and nigiri, Oka Sushi offers crafted rolls with an assortment of specialty sauces, including eel, soy mustard, spicy mayo, and yuzu vinaigrette.

I loved the simplicity of the poke bowl with crisp wontons and hot sake during Happy Hour. It’s perfect for a light lunch or a late afternoon snack.

9. Wicked 6 Bar And Grill

Shady canyons, rugged ridges, and impeccable green grass is the landscape enjoyed while dining in Wicked 6 Bar and Grill at Sunridge Canyon Golf Club. This Southwest restaurant offers a variety of delicious options, such as build-your-own gourmet burgers, steaks, wraps, sandwiches, and artisan pizzas. Whether you dine inside with a view or outside at the firepit, you’ll have a great experience.

What To Order At Wicked 6 

When I was there, I couldn’t resist the Hawaiian breakfast. It’s not just for breakfast, however. The Hawaiian breakfast is featured and is back by popular demand. This delectable dish is house-braised kalua pork with steamed jasmine rice and cabbage. Eggs any way you like them — I requested poached eggs — and the sweet soy glaze make this a savory meal in a bowl.

Where Is Fountain Hills

An official Dark Sky Community, Fountain Hills is in the East Valley of Metropolitan Phoenix. It is 30 minutes from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, and Scottsdale Airport, and only a 40-minute drive from downtown Phoenix.

For more to see and do in Arizona, check out these articles: 

• 9 Fantastic Experiences In Sunny Phoenix, Arizona
• My 5 Favorite Springtime Experiences In The Arizona Desert
• 5 Fabulous New Arizona Hotels To Book Now

We visited Schwartz’s Deli several years ago during a family trip to Montreal. We thought it was hilarious that the Schwartzs could eat at Schwartz’s Deli. Little did we know just how much of a treat it would be.

The legendary Schwartz’s Deli has served its smoked-meat “sammies” to celebrities, locals, and tourists alike. The name “Schwartz’s Deli” is synonymous with overstuffed sandwiches and an old-timey atmosphere. Patrons start to salivate before they even look at the menu!

Here are five reasons you have to try Schwartz’s if you visit Montreal.

1. Legendary Smoked Meat

Schwartz’s Deli is something of a legend in Montreal. Founded by Reuben Schwartz, a Jewish immigrant from Romania, the deli is still in its original location, and the original recipe remains unchanged.

Today, the deli is an integral part of the Plateau framework. Local storefronts and boutiques populate the trendy neighborhood. Schwartz’s trademark experience includes simple ordering and a communal eating style. It was a novel experience for our American family to sit with people from all over the world. We marveled at the camaraderie and thoroughly enjoyed the food and the experience.

Schwartz’s prepares its preservative-free smoked meat the old-fashioned way. They prepare it on location, using a secret blend of locally produced herbs and spices. Then, it’s marinated for 10 days, smoked overnight, steamed all day, and sliced by hand just before it’s needed.

2. Mythical Founders And Famous Owners

There are several unbelievable stories about the origins of the restaurant. If you talk to three different people, you’ll likely get three different ideas of who founded the deli. One version is that a Russian composer founded it and tacked on the Jewish-sounding name “Schwartz’s” to make it seem more legitimate. Another myth is that two widows founded it. A third version claimed that the outcome of a poker game determined its ownership.

Schwartz’s Deli made the news in 2012 when world-famous singer Celine Dion became part-owner. She and her now-late husband, René Angélil, were part of a group of investors who bought the beloved shop for $10 million. Celine Dion and smoked meats? It’s not so far-fetched. In the early ‘90s, Dion was one of the founders of Quebec’s largest smoked meat outfit, Nickels Delicatessen.

3. Inspirational Books, A Documentary, And A Musical

As word has spread about its excellent smoked meat, Schwartz’s Deli has become internationally famous. The iconic establishment inspired a book, a documentary, and a musical. Anthony Bourdain featured it in his show, The Layover. In addition, Bill Brownstein, Canadian author and newspaper columnist, wrote an article for the Montreal Gazette in which he described Schwartz’s dilemma about the possibility of franchising (they ultimately decided not to franchise). Brownstein turned the piece into a book on Schwartz’s history. Then, he worked with Bowser and Blue, famous for their musical comedies, to write Schwartz’s: The Musical. There are 18 songs, including a gospel number that opens the show.

4. Famous Visitors

While enjoying a Schwartz’s smoked meat sandwich, you never know who you will meet. So many famous people have visited that the staff has to rotate the photos and newspaper clippings that decorate the walls. Well-known visitors include actor Ryan Gosling, comedian Chris Rock, late Canadian Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau, late performer Jerry Lewis, actor Angelina Jolie, and the Rolling Stones.

The buzz about Schwartz’s Deli is not just hype. This deli is genuinely the “holy grail” of smoked meats. When you go, be prepared to stand in line. And, if you are a Schwartz, get one of their t-shirts like we did; we cherish ours!

5. The Neighborhood 

The Plateau, with its “boho-chic” charm and proximity to McGill University, has attracted young professionals, artists, and students. They come for the neighborhood’s upscale galleries, restaurants, nightclubs, and boutique clothing stores.

In the decades after Schwartz’s was founded, Greek Canadians set up many businesses in the Plateau. Vietnamese and Portuguese settlers led later waves of immigration. Now, you can visit Little Portugal to enjoy its specialty shops and eateries.

If you find yourself in Montreal’s Plateau area, stop by Schwartz’s Deli. You’ll know you’ve arrived by the mouth-watering aroma — and the line out the door and down the block.

Read these TravelAwaits articles to learn more about Montreal: 

• How To Do Montreal On A Budget
• Biospheres & Basilicas: 5 Things To Do In Montreal
• 10 Fantastic Things Not To Miss In Montreal, Canada

Parisian cafes and I have a long history to look back on. I have visited the city at least once a year since I was knee-high and later moved there for 6 years. But the first cafe I visited once I actually started drinking coffee and sitting on a cafe terrace watching people walk by was Les Deux Magots. It started me off on a rollercoaster of cafe visits, the variety of which you can only really enjoy in Paris.

While there are hundreds, if not thousands, of cafes in all shapes and sizes in Paris, there are a few that are so famous that they have become sights in their own right. Here, I mention some that mean a lot to me personally, for so many reasons, and others that are iconic, historic, or just gorgeous. And, yes, some overlap with this TravelAwaits article about cafes to experience in Paris, but doesn’t that just mean that these truly are icons of the Parisian cafe culture? Be sure not to miss these seven iconic Parisian cafes.

1. Les Deux Magots

I was visiting with my mother— years, no, decades ago. I was in my existentialist phase, wearing black turtleneck sweaters, smoking Gauloises, and drinking Ricard. Even though I hated both, I had an image to keep. My long-suffering mom took me to Les Deux Magots, the very cafe where Simone de Beauvoir and Jean-Paul Sartre had sat and debated the meaning of life years before. I was in heaven. When I later lived in Paris, I often went back and just wished my mom could have been there with me.

What To Order: The food is typically Parisian, with croque monsieurs, oysters, and other staples. Personally, I suggest ordering the charcuterie and cheese board with your aperitif. It’s pricey but large enough to count as dinner.

Pro Tip: On weekends, there is a queuing system for the terrace, so either come early and wait outside, or sit inside on the iconic red banquettes with the locals.

2. La Closerie Des Lilas

This is another cafe where de Beauvoir and Sartre sat and philosophized, and where Hemingway propped up the bar. La Closerie des Lilas, meaning “small lilac garden,” is another one of those cafes where, over the years, everybody who was anybody sat and met up. From Picasso to Zola and Baudelaire to Beckett, this was simply the place to be. While the terrace is lovely, and there is a fancy but very overpriced restaurant, I love sitting in the bar to the left of the entrance, where little name plates adorn the tables spelling out some of the famous patrons.

What To Order: This is expensive, so I just tend to have a coffee or an Aperol spritz. But, for something yummy and not too pricey, try the truffle and cheese ravioli.

Pro Tip: You are steps away from the Jardin du Luxembourg, one of the most beautiful gardens in Paris. Bring a book and sit by the fountain for a while.

3. La Palette

What do Picasso and Anthony Bourdain have in common with me? La Palette. On a corner of Rue de Seine, studded with art galleries leading from the bustling Saint Germain de Pres to — you’ve guessed it — the Seine, La Palette is a traditional cafe that has little changed since Picasso’s time. So much so that it has been listed as a historic monument. Inside, there is a small bar, but it is the backroom that is the interesting one. Here, you sit among paintings and tiled art in a veritable time warp. The terrace is great too, especially as you see the artsy people of the neighborhood saunter by, baguette under their arm. But for true atmosphere, sit inside.

What To Order: Paris is the best place for lunchtime omelets. Order the one with jambon de Paris and you cannot go wrong.

Pro Tip: At the end of the Rue de Seine lies the tiny Square Gabriel Pierné garden, which is filled with cherry blossoms in spring and hides a gorgeous statue of a little girl by Marcello Tommasi.

4. La Procope

The oldest cafe in Paris, it was here that Danton, Marat, and Robespierre concocted devious plans during the French Revolution, reminding me of school days, and later, even Napoleon Bonaparte ate here. Hidden away in the quaint and uncomfortably cobbled Rue de l’Ancienne Comédie, leading from Odeon through an archway, La Procope is as historic as it is iconic. Inside, a lovely staircase leads upstairs, and not one wall is straight, nor is the floor, but considering it first opened in 1686, that is only fair.

What To Order: Never mind coffee; book yourself in for dinner and go traditional: escargots for your starter, coq au vin for the main, and the not-to-be-missed flambeed crepe for dessert.

Pro Tip: A couple of buildings down is Grimart, a lovely art supply and stationery shop. They sell gorgeous notebooks.

5. Café De Flore

I know, I know: Café de Flore pops up in every single article about Parisian cafes. But it does so for good reason. It is where you meet friends when you live in Paris. It is where you sit during fashion week and watch all the Birds of Paradise stroll by. It is where you go for breakfast, or indeed, as I often did, to write for an hour or so. On the weekends, like at Les Deux Magots, there is a queue for the terrace. But during the week, you’re fine, and inside is always a chic option, even if it deprives you of people-watching. Instead, you’ll sit next to the locals that come every morning to read the paper.

What To Order: Breakfast! Depending on your appetite, have a flaky croissant, or try the tartine — simply half a baguette cut in two with butter and jam or honey. Inside, you can buy the cutest souvenirs, from plates to tea towels.

Pro Tip: Just when you think the age of magazines is over, head to the kiosk outside — especially during fashion week — and get your hands on one of the many thick, glossy fashion bibles. It’s great fun to flip through while you sit on the terrace and oh-so-French.

6. La Rotonde

Picasso painted it, Hemingway wrote about it in The Sun Also Rises, and Cocteau and Modigliani frequented it. Just up from the Closerie des Lilas, La Rotonde on Boulevard Montparnasse is one of those cafes where, in its heyday, everybody seemed to be somebody, and it must have been buzzing with creativity. And, like many others, the terrace is great for people-watching. But if you don’t see the inside, you are missing out.

What To Order: If you love seafood, this is the place to indulge. Order one of the iconic three-tiered seafood platters, packed full of crustaceans. Or, if that is a little daunting, definitely try the grilled turbot filet; one of my favorites.

Pro Tip: Just opposite the cafe, you have the famous La Coupole restaurant. In my mind, it used to be one of the best, but in recent years has lost a lot of its appeal, with the food just not being that good anymore. But do pop in for a glass of champagne and soak up the décor. The murals on the dome are a sight to see, as is the fine Art Deco décor.

7. Le Nemours

Another iconic cafe that most people mention, but again, Le Nemour is just so stylish and photogenic that even Angelina Jolie sat here in the film The Tourist. Right by the entrance to the Palais-Royal, the terrace is achingly beautiful and therefore deserves another mention.

What To Order: Have a coffee and a croissant, stay on the terrace, but pop to the toilet to marvel at the lovely monochrome floor tiles inside.

Pro Tip: Right next door is a little shop that sells figurines. Featuring figurines such as tin soldiers, TinTin, and all sorts of comic heroes, I can look at the window displays for hours.

Whether you’re in town for SXSW (South by Southwest film and multimedia festival), the Austin Food + Wine Festival, or one of the many music festivals in Austin, the “Live Music Capital of the World,” why not stay at a first-rate hotel where you’ll find gourmet eats as well?

Austin is a great city for culture and arts, food and dining, life and leisure, movies and film, music and concerts, and sports and recreation. Let’s explore seven unique restaurants in Austin’s downtown area, not listed in any particular order.

1. Garrison

Garrison is the Fairmont Hotel Austin’s fine-dining restaurant with an open kitchen concept featuring Texas post-oak wood flame-grilled entrees. Garrison boasts accolades like being a Wine Spectator Restaurant Award winner and a AAA Four-Diamond-rated restaurant. The restaurant is also Forbes Four-Star-rated.

I found unique cuisine that caught my eye, like truffle tater tots, grilled Texas quail, and a grilled Sakura pork tomahawk. Executive Chef Jakub Czyszczon focuses on his specialized Texas cuisine and impeccable service.

What To Order At Garrison

Start with the warm biscuits with honey butter, a reminder of my sweet grandmother’s homemade biscuits. We shared the creamy leek tart puff pastry and tater tots with gruyere cheese and lots of ums and ahs!

Our beverage choice was a Garrison martini with vodka, tequila, and dry vermouth, and a no-proof cocktail, the Newcumber, made with cucumber, blueberry, and ginger beer.

Try the beef tartare with smoked trout roe and egg yolk if you are game. For the main course, the 7-ounce Akaushi wagyu’s eye of rib from Heartbrand Ranch was juicy and tender.

Pro Tip: For special occasions, indulge in the six-course luxury tasting menu in the private dining room seating 16.

2. Driskill Grill

The iconic Driskill Grill has reopened in the historic Driskill Hotel, the oldest hotel in Austin, built in 1886. President Lyndon B. Johnson escorted his future bride, Lady Bird Johnson, here for their first date.

Executive Chef Mark Dayanandan boasts Texas fare with a bit of French influence, continuing The Grill’s tradition of excellent dinner service.

What To Order At Driskill Grill

I love the lobster bisque, rich and creamy with generous chunks of lobster. Don’t skip the epi bread for two, served with Texas whiskey pate, olive tapenade, and pimento cheese. Another favorite is the oysters Rockefeller with rich Pernod sauce over creamy spinach.

For mains, I like the rich jumbo lump crab cake or the tournedos Rossini, a 6-ounce filet mignon with foie gras, sauteed spinach, potato rosti, and truffle sauce. For hearty appetites, go for the 12-ounce prime ribeye with green peppercorn café au lait sauce. The giant Cattle Baron Burger with smoked cheddar or Swiss cheese is great for burger lovers.

For drinks, I like the traditional Samantha’s Ghost with mezcal, tequila, grand Marnier, and lemon, or the Pink Lady with gin, grand Marnier, lemon, and grenadine.

3. Vixen’s Wedding

Located in the Hotel Arrive Austin, Vixen’s Wedding serves flavorful cuisine featuring influences from Portugal and Goan (western India) with a Texas twist touting blends of heat, spice, and acidity.

Managing chef/partner, Todd Duplechan, says Vixen’s Wedding describes a sun shower frequently followed by a rainbow.

What To Order At Vixen’s Wedding

Enjoy shared plates like red shrimp served whole with a fried shrimp head and curry chili emulsion, red snapper with rainbow chard, or roasted mushrooms with coconut and green chili.

The Chef’s Prix-Fix Menu with wine pairings includes crab pakoras, sourdough naan, duck, grilled snapper, or grilled lamb, along with chocolate cremeux for dessert.

Choose the Last Tango with tequila or the Margao mule for cocktails.

4. Luminaire

Chef Steve McHugh, the six-time James Beard Foundation finalist, opened Luminaire, his first Austin restaurant in the new Hyatt Centric Congress Avenue Austin. Chef McHugh is the San Antonio-based executive chef of Landrance at the Hotel Thompson San Antonio as well.

Enjoy the outdoor terrace with city views and the rooftop bar Las Bis on the eighth floor. Opened on February 1 this year, Luminaire is a full-service, all-day restaurant taking up the entire ground floor of the hotel. The restaurant features indoor and outdoor seating, steps from the state capitol and next door to the historic Paramount Theatre.

Focused on seasonal local Texas cuisine and charcuterie, the menu is heavily Spanish-influenced, sourcing ingredients from Texas farms and ranches.

What To Order At Luminaire

The specially curated meat boards feature the 24-month aged jamon, smoked chorizo de Leon, and lean and tender lomo embuchado, which pair well with a Rioja wine and Manchego cheese. There is an expansive selection of breakfast empanadas and chicken a la plancha.

The waiter recommended the Delgada Chops, including lamb t-bone, pork rib, boar cutlet, or beef rib. For burger lovers, order the Angus Beef Luminaire Burger.

I selected the Shrimp and Whipped Hominy with smoked tasso ham, tomatoes, and chipotle adobo; flavorful and delicious.

The bar offers sangria, craft beers, new-world wines, and classic cocktails.

5. Suerte

Named Food & Wine‘s Best New Chefs 2021, Chef Fermin Nunez heads up Suerte, featuring traditional Mexican cooking with local Texas ingredients, offering a unique dining experience in the heart of east Austin. Patio and open-area dining provide cozy comfort with a Mexican restaurant ambiance.

What To Order At Suerte

Start with tacos fritos made with white fish and homemade masa, or the suadero tacos made with wagyu brisket. The pork carnitas with black bean purée and the Mole Y Pato duck leg confit was outstanding.

Others raved about the Bistec Con Chichilo, an 8-ounce wagyu New York strip with mole chichilo (a traditional Mexican sauce from Oaxaca). Veggie sides include squash, sunchoke, or sweet potatoes.

For craft cocktails, try the Don Dario with tequila, or the Pep Talk mixed with rum, banana, and lime.

I liked the Yaupon Spritz, a mixture of vodka, strawberry, yaupon tea, aloe, and cava.

6. Hestia

A majestic, custom 20-foot hearth links Hestia’s dining room and kitchen, led by award-winning Chef Kevin Fink and pastry chef and business partner Tavel Bristol-Joseph.

Touting accolades like Austin’s most ambitious restaurant and Esquire‘s Best New Restaurants in America 2021, the industrial-style restaurant features wood-fired dishes, tasting menus, and curated wine pairings from over 250 wine selections.

What To Order At Hestia

Start with the snacks, the smoked crab tart or oysters with green sambal, an Indonesian sauce of green tomatoes, green chiles, shallots, and seasonings.

Small plates include butternut squash, apple, pecan, mushroom miso, or beef tartare with horseradish and grilled mushroom.

For my entrée, I selected the halibut with charred Bok choy, while others at the table chose the Red Ranger Chicken with fennel, radish, and turnip. For a hearty appetite, go with the 12-ounce Texas wagyu ribeye with a braised cabbage wedge.

Our choice for dessert was the bunuelo, roasted white chocolate mousse, strawberry, peanuts, and burnt thyme ice cream.

The chef’s tasting menu features 13 courses with seasonal selections and added wine pairings.

Extensive wine selections include my favorite Spanish riojas, new and old-world whites, reds, pinot noirs, French whites, rosés, California wines, Southern Hemisphere malbecs, and Oregon Willamette Valley pinot noirs.

7. Emmer & Rye

Located on the ground floor of the Sky House Austin Building, Emmer & Rye boasts handmade bread and pasta and whole-animal butchery, working directly with ranchers, farmers, and growers for innovative farm-to-table food.

Keith Parker, Chef de Cuisine, manages the daily changing menu. His awards include a James Beard Finalist, Best Chef Texas 2020, Bon Appetit America’s Best New Restaurants, and Austin American-Statesman #1 Restaurant in Austin.

Emmer & Rye is the first restaurant in Austin to offer dim sum service as part of the meal; order directly off circulating carts.

What To Order At Emmer & Rye

Start with the Crudo red snapper or Texas wagyu beef tartare with sunchoke. Add an order of bread and accoutrements with cultured butter, smoked honey, and sour orange.

For mains, savor the Fish Amberjack with fennel and trumpet mushroom or the Pork Mangalitsa Belly with mole chichilo and butternut squash.

For cocktails, choose the Bolo Tie with rum, Texas pecan, orange, and lime, or Praise the Sun with brandy, cold brew, vermouth, and mole bitters.

Or indulge in beer, cider, wine, sparkling wine, champagne, reds, whites, rosés, American and International whiskeys, tequila, mezcal, rum, and brandy.

Related Reading:

• The 8 Best Spas In Austin, Texas
• 17 Amazing Things To Do In Beautiful Austin, Texas
• My 7 Favorite Stops On A Road Trip From Austin To El Paso

Canadian food is diverse, creative, and utterly irresistible. While some of these dishes might have funny names or unusual origin stories, you can count on one thing: They’re going to be delicious! From poutine to pouding chômeur, here are 23 foods you’ll have to try when you visit Canada.

1. Poutine

Arguably the most popular dish on this list, poutine originated in Quebec and is now found across Canada. This simple meal of French fries, cheese curds, and homemade gravy is pure Canadian comfort food. 

2. Fries-Dressing-Gravy

Newfoundland’s answer to poutine is fries-dressing-gravy. Just like poutine, French fries and delicious gravy are used, but instead of cheese curds, the dish is topped with dressing (the kind of dressing or stuffing you’d have with your Thanksgiving turkey). All dressing in Newfoundland is flavored with summer savoury and you can find the herb everywhere. It’s even sold at gas stations!

3. Fries-With-The-Works

This is Prince Edward Island’s answer to poutine and it’s a delectable, messy experience. Fries-with-the-works is a comabination of French fries (always made with PEI-grown potatoes) with gravy, ground beef, and canned peas.

4. Rappie Pie

More of a pie than a casserole, rappie pie is popular throughout Acadian communities in New Brunswick, southern Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island. Simmered meat (usually chicken) is topped with potatoes which have been grated, dehydrated, and then re-hydrated with meat stock to form a pudding-like main dish.

5. Jigg’s Dinner

This Newfoundland classic is a one-pot boiled dinner that consists of salt beef, turnip, cabbage, potato, carrot, pease pudding, and sometimes even blueberry duff (a kind of blueberry bread that cooks on top of the pot in the steam). No Sunday family gathering in Newfoundland is complete without it.

6. Digby Scallops

Arguably the finest scallop in the world, the Digby scallop comes from the deep, cold harbor of Digby, Nova Scotia. The powerful tides here mean that the scallops have plenty of food coming at them twice a day and they’re getting a workout in the churning water. The result is large, sweet, tender seafood that’s as fresh as can be.

7. PEI Oysters

You can’t go to a serious fine-dining establishment in North America without seeing oysters from Prince Edward Island on the menu. Restaurants across the island offer “buck a shuck” deals at happy hour and are eager to show off their best regional catches. 

8. Smoked Salmon

Whether it’s from Nova Scotia or British Columbia, Canadian smoked salmon is delicious and affordably priced. Keep an eye out for “salmon candy”, strips of smoked salmon that are almost jerky-like in texture and lacquered with maple syrup. It is highly addictive.

9. Montreal Smoked Meat

A deli meat made by salting and curing beef brisket with spices, Montreal smoked meat is sometimes compared to corned beef or pastrami, but the result is more flavorful, with less fat and sweetness. It’s usually served up on light rye bread with mustard and some pickles on the side.

10. Tourtière

A thick, hearty meat pie, tourtière is usually made with minced pork, veal, beef, or even wild game and potatoes. It’s a traditional part of Christmas and New Year’s Eve celebrations in Quebec and there are regional variations across the province, as well as the country. Tourtière is also especially popular in New Brunswick and Manitoba.

11. Bagels

Sorry, New York. If you want a proper bagel, you’ll have to come to Canada. Montreal-style bagels are sweeter, thinner, and denser than their American counterparts. They’re boiled in honey-sweetened water before being baked in a wood oven. And they’re phenomenal!

12. Ketchup Chips

Yep, these are potato chips that are flavored with a ketchup-esque seasoning. Beloved by most Canadians, the flavor is strong, tangy, sweet, and salty. They’re a national classic.

13. All Dressed Chips

You didn’t think that snack-obsessed Canadians would have just one chip flavor that’s all their own, did you? All dressed chips are a mix of ketchup, barbecue sauce, sour cream and onion, and salt and vinegar flavorings. Fans say that they’re even better than the ketchup chip.

14. Bakeapples 

Known in Scandinavia as cloudberries, bakeapples look a bit like a golden raspberry and they’re the most-prized food in Newfoundland. You’ll find bakeapples in jam, jelly, sauces, cheesecake, marinades, and so much more. But the one place you likely won’t find them is in the wild. Newfoundlanders guard their favorite bakeapple patches with fierce secrecy. 

15. Moon Mist Ice Cream

An “out of this world” combination of banana, grape, and bubble gum ice cream, Moon Mist is an Instagram-worthy colorful treat that’s absolutely dreamy. It’s been famous in eastern Canada for decades and is now just slowly starting to make its way to the rest of the country.

16. BeaverTails

Never fear! No rodents are involved in the making of BeaverTails. This whole wheat pastry treat, which originated just outside Ottawa, requires the dough to be stretched into a flat, oblong shape before it’s deep fried and covered with yummy toppings like cinnamon sugar or chocolate and banana. If you use your imagination, the shape looks a bit like the tail of a beaver. You can find them across Canada but they’re best enjoyed while skating on Ottawa’s Rideau Canal on a crispy February afternoon.

17. Saskatoon Berry Pie

The Saskatoon berry is a bit of an enigma. Native to western Canada, Saskatoons look like blueberries, are classified in the apple family, and taste a tiny bit nutty. They’re wonderful no matter how you eat them but perhaps the best way is to indulge in a large slice of Saskatoon berry pie. Maybe even add in a big scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side.

18. Nanaimo Bars

These non-baked layered bar cookies are named for the British Columbia city of Nanaimo, where they are believed to have originated. With a bottom layer of butter, cocoa, graham crumbs, nuts, and coconut, a middle filling of thick custard, and a chocolate ganache topping, Nanaimo Bars are incredibly sweet, gooey, and intoxicatingly tasty. No wonder they often top lists of the best desserts in the country.

19. Butter Tarts

These rich, ultra-sweet, and sticky tarts feature a buttery crust and a filling that’s very similar to pecan pie or treacle tart. (Nuts and raisins are optional and, depending on who you talk to, controversial.) They’re especially popular in southern Ontario, where there’s a Butter Tart Trail.

20. Blueberry Grunt

Blueberry grunt is a stick-to-your-ribs concoction of cooked wild blueberries topped with biscuit dough. Imagine a sweet version of chicken and dumplings and you’ll get the idea! They’re the perfect dessert to bring to a late summer potluck. Rumor has it that the funny name came from the sound the fruit makes as it cooks.

21. Pouding Chômeur

Emerging from the heart of the Great Depression in Quebec, pouding chômeur is a simple, self-saucing cake that’s flavored with maple syrup or caramelized sugar. In especially frugal times, stale bread would stand in for the cake batter. The magic in this humble dish is the preparation. The sauce is poured over the cake batter before the dish goes into the oven. As things cook, the sauce slowly sinks to the bottom of the pan where it becomes a gloriously sticky mess and the now-flavored cake batter rises to the top.

22. Fat Archies

The funnily named Fat Archies are thick, soft molasses cookies from eastern Canada. Don’t confuse them with gingerbread. Fat Archies are thicker, have few spices, and are designed to almost be a meal when served alongside a strong, milky cup of tea.

23. Maple Syrup

Sure, you can find maple syrup in many countries but Canadians argue that we make it best! In early spring, visit a sugar shack (maple syrup-making cabin in the woods) to try fresh syrup, taffy, maple-baked beans, maple-glazed ham, all the pancakes you can eat, and more.

Boston is well-known for its vibrant and ever-evolving culinary scene, with new chefs and new openings making headlines on the regular, but it’s the city’s oldest neighborhood, the North End, that is its most food-centric. Settled in the 1630s, the single-square-mile neighborhood is a study of 5 centuries of architectural development, from the circa-1680 Paul Revere house on North Square (downtown Boston’s oldest building) to the four- and five-story turn-of-the-century tenement buildings. 

But it’s just too easy to get distracted from the history and significance of the North End as the wafting scent of garlic, fresh-baked bread, and brewing espresso permeates the streets. You’ll find restaurants with striped awnings and neon lights, refrigerated bakery display cases lined with eclairs, flaky lobster tail pastries (known locally as sfogliatella) and cannoli, and outdoor hostess stands staffed with welcoming, usually apron-clad staff. It all adds to the palpable, intangible energy of Hanover Street and its cramped offshoots.

From the buzz-worthy, reservation-required hotspots to the hidden gems in narrow alleyways you might easily miss if you weren’t in the know, we rounded up some of the best must-try restaurants and eateries in the North End of Boston.

1. Trattoria Il Panino

For more than 35 years, Trattoria Il Panino has been a favorite of locals and visitors alike. Head to the entrance on Parmenter Street, where you can be seated on the year-round covered and heated brick patio (in the warmer months, you can dine outside as well). Owned by restaurateur and Italian immigrant, Frank DePasquale — the proprietor of a number of restaurants in the neighborhood — Trattoria Il Panino’s menu offers classic Italian dishes made with a modern touch, including appetizers like “Mom’s Meatballs” or the mozzarella caprese with locally grown tomatoes.

What To Order At Trattoria Il Panino

I had to try the zucchini flowers stuffed with whipped fresh ricotta and prosciutto cotto, which were highly recommended and have now become a family favorite. For entrées, I’m wild about the pasta arrabbiata, because I love spicy foods; as well as the gnocchi alla Sorrentina, in which the pillowy, potato-filled pasta puffs perfectly absorb the sauce. It’s served in the steel skillet it’s prepared in.

Pro Tip: Pasta pairs perfectly with an Aperol spritz — and there’s nothing better than the combo on the patio!

2. Galleria Umberto 

It’s fitting that Galleria Umberto is housed inside a space that used to be a church (two, actually), as some might say sinking their teeth into one of their square, old-school Sicilian-style slices is a religious experience. Fun fact: The space also served as a sailor’s house — a boarding house for seamen to get a good night’s rest. When the Deuterio family opened the lunch-only, no-frills eatery in 1974, they kept the murals from that chapter of the building’s rich history. 

Truth is, the menu and decor (and the prices!) haven’t changed all that much at Galleria Umberto over the past nearly 50 years. And that’s just how folks, many of whom line up when the pizzeria opens at 10:45 in the morning, like it.

What To Order At Galleria Umberto

The thick, cheesy square slices served on paper plates are a steal at just $2.25. While the must-have arancini — a softball-sized, deep-fried rice ball filled with meat, cheese, and peas — is just $4.50. My family and I like to get a few of each, and friends rave about the panzerotti, pizzettes, and calzones.

Pro Tip: Galleria Umberto is cash only, the lines can go out the door, and they serve food until 2:30 p.m., or when the food runs out, so plan accordingly. Also, the restaurant is closed on Sundays and for the entire month of July.

3. Mare Oyster Bar 

While pasta, pesto, and pecorino are synonymous with the Old Country, Mare Oyster Bar takes pesce, or fish, to the next level. The Italian seafood concept restaurant is hidden from busy Hanover Street, tucked away in an unassuming alley, and juxtaposed from its surroundings by its sleek decor and next-level menu (think caviar service). But the vibe is more playful than pretentious. Mare only serves dinner but is also ideal for indulging in a raw bar, crudo, sunset drinks, or a pre-dinner light bite.

What To Order At Mare

Italian chef Nello Caccioppoli is best known for standouts like his Cioppino — a classic Italian seafood stew with a tomato-broth base, black squid linguine, clams, lobster ravioli, and branzino, a whole fish that is fileted tableside.

Pro Tip: While half of the restaurant is indoors, the other half is a chic outdoor space with couches surrounding fire pits and a view of the city’s downtown skyscrapers. Mare claims to have sold more than a million of their “famous” espresso martinis, so keep this in mind if you’re looking for a nightcap!

4. Modern Pastry

If you ever want to get an unapologetic opinion about the sweet stuff, ask a North End native where to get the most highly coveted cannoli, and you’re sure to get some definitive answers. While a ton of travelers flock to Mike’s Pastry just down the street, which indeed has serious street cred and decidedly delicious delights, Modern Pastry is on its way to marking 100 years in business. Seemingly endless trays of butter cookies, raspberry bowtie cookies, rainbow Venetian cookies, cheesecake, and lobster tail pastries are just the start. All around the neighborhood, you’ll spy folks carrying Modern Pastry’s to-go boxes tied up with the ubiquitous red and white bakers twine.

What To Order At Modern Pastry 

On my last visit to Modern Pastry, or just “Modern” as I’ve learned some people refer to it, I kept it simple with a pair of filled-to-order cannoli. If time allowed, I would have perched myself at a table to enjoy my sweet treat with a mid-afternoon espresso or another specialty coffee drink.

Pro Tip: Modern Pastry is cash only, and there’s a good chance the tray of treats will tempt you to add to your order at the very last moment you approach the counter, and that’s okay.

5. Al Dente Ristorante

It’s a small, unassuming restaurant on narrow Salem Street you might otherwise miss if not for the green awning out front. Warm, intimate, and unfussy, Al Dente’s authentic traditional Italian fare has the vibe that the recipes were passed down from generation to generation and would earn Nonna’s approval. Established in 1993, expect to be greeted by a smiling server and a basket of freshly baked bread thereafter, and prepare to bring home a to-go box as portions here can be generous (see: the bolognese).

What To Order At Al Dente

The pasta here is cooked to order, so allow a little time, and pay the extra few bucks for the fresh pasta — it’s worth it. If you like veal, there are more than half a dozen veal dishes here, in addition to seafood and chicken dishes.

Pro Tip: Al Dente is your go-to spot if you’re looking for gluten-free options, including gluten-free bread.

6. Mamma Maria

In a neighborhood that can seem particularly crowded (the North End was the most densely populated neighborhood in the mid-1700s, and today, its population hovers around 10,000, give or take), Mamma Maria enjoys a rare gift of breathing room. Perched at the top of North Square just steps from Paul Revere’s home-turned-museum, the restaurant boasts a picture-perfect exterior with colorful blooms cascading from the window boxes and architectural details as far as the eye can see.

What To Order At Mamma Maria

Mamma Maria’s menu is absolutely upscale and it changes daily. To give you a good idea of what to expect, think rabbit pasta, osso buco, and mushroom carpaccio made with hand-forged king mushrooms with black truffles, Parmigiano crisp, red bell pepper coulis, and Osetra Caviar Malossol. Another upscale giveaway: A server will swing by to sweep your table to rid it of the crusty bread crumbs that have fallen.

Pro Tip: While white tablecloth-dressed tables are sprinkled across the cobblestoned square — the oldest of its kind in the country — the stones are uneven. If you prefer sturdier ground, request a table on the second floor of the restaurant, where the opening floor-to-ceiling windows afford breathtaking skyline views.

7. Bricco Salumeria And Pasta Shop 

When exploring the North End, you’ll likely spot the “Bricco” name in more than one spot. The flagship restaurant, “Bricco,” on Hanover Street is best known for rustic dishes including their daily risotto. But it’s the Bricco Salumeria, in the alley around the corner, where you can get savory made-to-order deli sandwiches. With cured Italian meats hanging from the ceiling, wooden crates stacked with fresh tomatoes and peppers, and shelves lined with olive oils, dried pasta, and imported specialty foods, the salumeria embodies the epitome of authentic flavors of the North End.

What To Order At Bricco Salumeria And Pasta Shop 

It’s the most simple sandwich on the menu, but the panino with prosciutto, fresh buffalo mozzarella, tomato, basil, and olive oil on a roll from Bricco Panetteria — the neighboring subterranean bakery with rows of just-out-of-the-oven crusty Italian bread — is heavenly. 

Pro Tip: There’s a picnic table or two in the alley where the aromas from the two eateries converge, making lunch a feast for the senses.

8. Quattro

Best known for serving one of the only Neapolitan pizzas in the North End, Quattro keeps it cozy and casual. On one of Hanover Street’s most iconic corners with a signpost dotted with arrows pointing toward major Italian cities and towns, the aroma of fresh pizza baking in the custom-made brick oven imported from Naples and rotisserie chickens waft through the space, making a menu selection a challenge. Hearty portions, a lively spirit, sliding doors that open onto the street when the weather cooperates, and a panoramic view of the North End make this much-loved eatery a favorite.

What To Order At Quattro

Get the brick oven pizza. Keep it old school by ordering the Napoletana with oregano and garlic, or savor one of my favorites, the white pizza with figs, arugula, and goat cheese.

Pro Tip: Dining solo or for two? Sit at the marble counter where you can take in all the action of the kitchen.

Find out what else there is to do in Boston:

• 15 Incredible Experiences In Boston’s Luxurious Beacon Hill Neighborhood
• My 5 Favorite Stops On A Food Tour In Boston’s North End Neighborhood
• 7 Lesser-Known Boston-Area Museums Worth The Trip

If you’re a foodie like me, Vancouver is a must-visit destination. Vancouver’s dining establishments benefit from the city’s location on Canada’s Pacific coast. While seafood reigns supreme, the Asian influence is equally strong with often edgy Japanese and Chinese restaurants. Mild year-round temperatures and an innovative dining scene keep the city lively at mealtime and outdoor seating is a popular choice at many restaurants. Second only to Tokyo for its raw fish (in my opinion), Vancouver is known as the “Sushi Capital of North America.”

1. Bao Bei 

Tiny, offbeat Bao Bei serves up intriguing eats. A non-traditional Chinese brasserie in a storefront in Vancouver’s Chinatown, Bao Bei lives up to the meaning of its name, “precious.” With carefully curated food and drink menus, the restaurant is a jewel to those in the know for its sustainable and animal-friendly cuisine. The crowd is hip, excited to be there, and culinarily sophisticated. 

What To Order At Bao Bei 

My very-cool server helped me decide among Bao Bei’s unusual food and cocktail choices. Come hungry so you can share a variety of the homestyle small plates. Vegetarian potstickers and Wagyu beef tartare make great starters. Follow them with sesame flatbread with lamb and pickled red onion; homemade dumplings stuffed with prawns, rockfish, chives, and scallops; and Bao Bei’s “kick-ass” house fried rice jazzed up with a slow-cooked duck leg and a runny egg. Order a piña colada, a surprising cocktail in a Chinese restaurant. Here the umbrella-adorned drink is a reason to celebrate. Just put away any elitist thoughts, and sip and smile like you’re at a beach party with Annette Funicello.

2. Minami 

Yaletown’s Minami is a contemporary Japanese restaurant known for oshi aburi, sushi that is pressed and flame-seared. You can sit indoors or reserve a table outside on the beautiful garden patio. If you’re already familiar with the aburi cuisine introduced to Vancouver by sister restaurant Miku, you’ll love Minami. 

What To Order At Minami 

The menu features à la carte dining, but I suggest you ask about one of the aburi “sets” instead. Your well-balanced, artistic “bento box” might include a chef’s selection of fish such as spicy tuna, ebi, salmon, and saba oshi with special glazes; local king salmon with nori and roasted cherry tomatoes; hamachi with oroshi radish and yuzu skin; and miso soup. I was pretty full after all this but I managed to save room for dessert: the drool-worthy seven-layer, green tea opera cake with matcha-mango raspberry coulis and matcha ice cream is a delicious work of art.

3. Blue Water Cafe 

Also in Yaletown, stylish seafood-specialist Blue Water Cafe offers dining inside a 100-year-old brick-and-beam warehouse conversion with a heated terrace on what had been a loading dock. Blue Water Cafe, a flagship restaurant of the Toptable Group, is known for both its vast wine list and its sustainable, “approachable” West Coast cuisine. If you enjoy watching chefs in action, there’s a sushi bar that showcases ingredients from the region. 

Pro Tip: Ask for a tour of the rooms with the wine walls — the collection of bottles is truly impressive.

What To Order At Blue Water Cafe 

Blue Water Cafe’s fish selection changes according to the season. Following the recommendation of my knowledgeable server, I chose local oysters, sushi, smoked sockeye salmon terrine, and grilled Johnstone Strait halibut with lobster curry rice croquettes. The sommelier selected several fine wines to accompany and I toasted the night away, chatting with my friendly neighbors who were curious about where I was from. For a taste of British Columbia, try the Quails’ Gate pinot noir from the Okanagan Valley and the highly rated (and difficult to purchase) Stella Maris gewürztraminer, pinot gris, schönburger, and Ortega blend from Sea Star Vineyards on nearby Pender Island. A plate of Canadian cheese with fruit bread makes a perfect finale. 

4. The Victor 

On the rooftop of The Douglas and JW Marriott Parq Vancouver complex, this fine dining restaurant buzzes with indoor and outdoor spaces that invite festivity. The scene at The Victor is cool and elegant. Dress up for what amounts to a cocktail party evening without the formality. Service is impeccable and your waitstaff will help you navigate the extensive surf and turf menu. You’ll find sushi in a variety of preparations, Wagyu and other cuts of beef, seafood both cooked and raw, and more. 

What To Order At The Victor 

Begin your meal with a photo-worthy seafood tower of Pacific Northwest cooked and raw delicacies. Then get ready for one of the best pieces of meat you’ve ever had, the restaurant’s A5 Wagyu striploin from Japan. The beef simply melts in your mouth and I dream about it to this day. I recommend a sparkling white wine or a dry riesling to start and either a full-bodied cabernet or a slightly lighter syrah for your meat course. If you love sake or haven’t ever tried shōchū, the best accompaniment will be picked for you. For dessert, crème brûlée donuts served with maple cotton candy are simply sinful. 

5. Joe Fortes Seafood & Chop House 

Joe Fortes is a legend in Vancouver. Named after a 19th-century resident famous for “his warm, welcoming nature,” the energetic, downtown restaurant is a sprawling gathering spot for business folks and locals. There’s a horseshoe-shaped bar rimmed with seats, tables tucked into corners and a private side room ideal for a quieter meal. Facing the open oyster bar, the upstairs level also offers a covered outdoor patio. You would think you could easily score a table due to the restaurant’s size, but you should reserve in advance to avoid disappointment. 

What To Order At Joe Fortes Seafood & Chop House 

The oyster bar is a standout here with a rotating selection including Kumamotos, Kusshi, and Chefs Creeks from the West Coast as well as Malpeques from Prince Edward Island. To follow these, my waiter suggested a Joe Fortes “classic,” panko-breaded sockeye salmon cake, and he was right. The cakes were delicious. So were the fish tacos served with a mess of housemade guacamole and pico de gallo, and the huge and very filling crab and corn fritters prepared Cajun-style with Old Bay spice and jalapeño aïoli. I didn’t get to try anything from the chops side of the menu after all these, but the table next to me vouched for the dry-aged steaks. If you still have room, desserts are great, especially the pavlova, a pretty meringue surrounded by fruit and lemon curd. 

Pro Tip: Buy a bottle of the restaurant’s famous (and unusual) lobster oil to take home. 

6. Notch8 

The flagship restaurant inside Vancouver’s grande dame Fairmont Hotel Vancouver, Notch8, recalls the hotel’s Canadian Pacific Railway heritage. The bar and restaurant have fun with playful, train-themed design elements such as curtains surrounding booths and luggage straps on seats. The back room where afternoon tea is served changes its theme quarterly with a changing menu to match. During my visit, the room was decorated à la Queen’s Gambit with oversized chess pieces jutting from the walls, chess boards at tables, and a menu appropriate to the theme. Spruce up your attire for this “event.” It’s quite special and you’ll feel oh-so-refined.

What To Order At Notch8

High tea is a must here. Staff creativity determines the motif and menu, but you’ll always have interesting, locally influenced tea sandwiches like olive-oil poached king salmon with orange confit or Dungeness crab with savory corn custard. Sweets, scones, and clotted cream are served on all menus along with teas from around the world, Champagne, local Mission Hill wines, and themed cocktails.

7. ARC Restaurant And Bar 

You’ll find yourself amid a garden-to-table, sustainable dining experience at the well-located ARC Restaurant and Lounge. Across from Canada Place and close to Rogers Arena, the restaurant is lively from breakfast to happy hour and well beyond. Many dishes and beverages feature herbs and honey from ARC’s garden and apiary on the rooftop of the Fairmont Waterfront. If you get a chance to tour, the apiary welcomes some 250,000 bees to its hives each summer. 

What To Order At ARC Restaurant And Bar

Order an artisanal cocktail paired with lounge-type small plates for a pre-game or post-concert meal. The grilled cheese and tomato soup combo is served with parmesan butter and crisp sourdough, perfect for a cool night. A sweet indulgence, ARC’s Bees Knees sundae drizzles honey on top of ice cream. Infusing honey as well, the “Garden to Glass” flaming Rosemary Gimlet combines Vancouver Island’s Wayward Distillery gin with rosemary, lemon and lime juice, finished with a spray of Chartreuse to add a touch of herbaceousness. Set your camera to video — when the mixture is poured over the torched rosemary, it creates a smoking-hot cocktail. 

Granville Island 

For something different from your standard sit-down meal, you can take a ferry or rainbow-hued Aquabus from Downtown Vancouver to this island of galleries, markets, and dining. My recommendation is to eat as you go. Stopping first in the sprawling Granville Island Public Market, you can create a progressive meal with a pickle at Hobbs, a chocolate cake donut at Lee’s Donuts, and some beautifully displayed fruit from greengrocers, for example. Complement this random selection with a slice of savory pie from A La Mode. There are bars to help you wash down your “bites.” JJ Bean has coffee in a myriad of forms, or you might want to try a craft brew at Granville Island Brewing’s taproom.

With its sprawling beachfront and wide, shady boulevards, Tel Aviv is a stunning city that never sleeps. But the White City offers more than just its good looks — it’s a”foodie-forward” city. Its diversity of fresh, flavorful, and fabulous food has resulted in being voted one of the top destinations for vegan travelers. From street food to top chefs, the cooks and kitchens of this city adopted a fusion of culinary traditions and cooking methods spanning 3,000 years of history all over the globe.

From the pedestrian streets of Carmel Market to the stone paths of Jaffa’s old city, I absolutely fell in love with the delicious dishes and food culture in Tel Aviv. I have listed some of my favorite foods in Tel Aviv, giving you a bit of background on what and how, as well as where to go and try each one.

Tourist Israel was my host for the Tel Aviv Food Tasting Tour of the Carmel Market which contributed to this article. However, all opinions are my own. 

1. Falafel

Hakosem Falafel

Falafel is a fried ball made of chickpeas, spices, and herbs; it is one of Tel Aviv’s most recognized street foods and is considered the national dish of Israel. Crispy and crunchy, it’s most often served in a fresh pita with a salad, pickles, and tahini. It’s one of Israel’s favorite street foods and vegetarian, perfect for everyone.

You can find great Falafel everywhere in Tel Aviv, from street stalls to markets. My favorite was Hakosem Falafel in the heart of Tel Aviv-Yafo. It’s a street food establishment that offers Israeli cuisine with good vibes and a bustling atmosphere.

2. Knafeh 

Yaffa Knafeh 

Knafeh is a fantastic traditional Middle Eastern sweet dessert of syrup-dipped pastry filled with cheese and often pistachios and other treats on top. Near the flea market, I passed Yaffa Knafeh on my bike and noticed a line of people wrapped down the street. I just had to stop and see what the fuss was all about. 

Watching the cooks put the knafeh pans on the hot coals, flip them, add a splash of sweet syrup, and listen to it sizzle — the best. If you eat dinner in Jafffa or are simply out for a stroll, do not pass up Yaffa Knafeh for dessert. Your sweet tooth will thank you.

Pro Tip: Top off the warm knafeh with goat cheese ice cream and chopped pistachios. 

3. Halva

Magic Halvah 

Halva is a confection made from sesame seed paste and sugar with a dense texture and a nutty aroma. It comes in different flavors, such as vanilla and chocolate, and is infused with nuts and other things.

Magic Halvah (Kesem Ha Halva) is a small shop in Levinsky Market offering a variety of halva and is a must-visit. My favorite is topped with pistachios. They will cut a whole slice for you, then you cut it into bite-sized pieces to savor along with coffee or tea.

4. Spices And Herbs 

Pereg Spices

Tel Aviv is famous for hard-to-find eastern spices and herbs. Pereg Spices in Levinsky Market is one of the hidden gems of Tel Aviv, loved by locals and tourists alike who quickly fall in love with its one-of-a-kind atmosphere and a plethora of local and Middle Eastern spices and herb blends, including za’atar. 

In the late 1920s, many working-class immigrants from Greece settled in the Florentin neighborhood in the south of Tel Aviv. Levinsky Market became the throbbing heart of this immigrant neighborhood, a reflection of the cultural melting pot where you could find spices and goods from around the globe.

5. Shakshouka

Dr. Shakshuka

This North African baked egg dish contains tomato, onion, cumin, chili peppers, and spices. It is served sizzling hot with sunny-side-up eggs on top. Traditionally eaten for breakfast, this one-skillet dish is best enjoyed with warm slices of thick bread to mop up all the flavors. It’s an Israeli staple and the ultimate comfort food.

Dr. Shakshuka is a well-known culinary institution in Jaffa. Founded in the ‘90s, this kosher establishment feeds hungry people who love this authentic food.

6. Druze Pita

Carmel Market

The freshly-rolled dough is stretched by spinning it between the hands and flipping it onto a dome-shaped oven on which it cooks. The pita, which is large and thin, browns and bubbles lightly. It’s folded and slathered with Labneh white cheese, za’atar spice, tabouli, and olive oil; rolled up; and sliced into pieces for easy eating. The Druze are a small ethnic minority in Israel, but their bread — and reputation for making it — is renowned.

Carmel Market is Tel Aviv’s largest and most-famous cultural melting pot. It was a popular stop on my food-tasting tour of the Carmel Market. Crowds gathered and watched the cook transform one giant pita after another, waiting for a taste.

This Yemenite flatbread has a touch of tang, similar in texture to Ethiopian injera bread, spotted with holes created by fermentation bubbles. Spongy like a crumpet on one side and smooth like a pancake on the other, it is served with tasty Yemenite sides like baked eggs, fresh tomato, and spicy green chile sauce called “zhug.” I recommend savoring the bread with delicious Yemini stews or soups.

Shaluf and Sons is an authentic Yemini eatery where you can eat on a budget in the Kerem Hateimanim neighborhood, outside the Levinsky Market. Stop for lunch, sit at a communal table, and the staff will assist with recommendations on all the delicious Yemenite delights.

7. Local Cheeses

Beit Kandinof 

Israel’s cuisine is heavily influenced by dairy, which plays a prominent role on most menus throughout the country, especially around the Festival of Shavuot. This delicious, grilled bryndza cheese is a sheep cheese swimming in a savory tomato cream, topped with mixed nuts and green chili oil. 

Beit Kandinof is a combination of an art gallery, bar, and restaurant with a fun atmosphere. Located in the Kandinov House, it was built adjacent to the walls of Old Jaffa and the port walls at the end of the 19th century. This satisfying grilled bryndza cheese was just one course of my favorite meal in Tel Aviv.

8. Hummus

Abu Hassan Restaurant

A plate of hummus is one of Israel’s most iconic dishes. Any rendition of Israel’s most iconic food you find in Tel Aviv will shame the supermarket version in the U.S. The simplicity of the chickpeas with fresh tahini scooped up with warm rounds of pita can’t be beaten.

Abu Hassan is said to serve the best hummus in Israel. This culinary gem is a tiny place with simple kitchen tables and a scarce amount of chairs; the long lines prove something special is done here. 

Pro Tip: You must go before 2 p.m. as they close after the daily batch finishes.

9. Shawarma 

Golda’s Deli

Shawarma is a popular Middle Eastern dish featuring slow-roasted, mouth-watering meats, usually cooked on a revolving spit and shaved for serving. I had a turkey shawarma plate with burnt eggplant, onion in sumac, tomato, parsley, and sauerkraut tahini served with pita at Golda’s Deli in the Jaffa Hotel.

Named after Israel’s first female prime minister, Gold Meir, the deli-style restaurant features Israeli classics, a street-food-inspired menu, and fresh Mediterranean salads from an open kitchen. Dining in the lovely open courtyard of the hotel, choosing just one of the options was hard. I couldn’t resist adding a poppy-seed-covered bagel as big as the plate.

10. Kubbeh

Levinsky Market

Kubbeh is a popular dish in Levantine cuisine and is made of bulgur and minced onions with ground beef, lamb, or goat. Aromatic meat and spices can be fried, baked, or cooked in a broth. Proprietor Avi was surrounded by giant bubbling pots and everything smelled delicious.

Located at Stall 53 in the Levinsky Market, in the southern part of Tel Aviv, it brims with atmosphere and aromas. The Levinsky Market was founded by Greek immigrants in the 1920s, and later, welcomed an influx of Iranian, Persian, and Yemenite immigrants who shared their dishes and customs from home. 

Pro Tip: The market operates daily from Sunday through Thursday and closes early Friday afternoon through Saturday for Shabbat.

11. Kataifi

Carmel Market 

Kataifi is a popular dessert in the Middle East, Turkey, and Greece. The buttery, shredded dough and a mixture of coarsely-chopped nuts are generously soaked in cinnamon-flavored sugar syrup. Much like baklava, I loved the little bird nest shapes filled with pistachios.

This is one of many vendors in Carmel Market that first opened in 1920. I marveled at the sweet treats around every corner. This stall was overflowing with heavenly bites just waiting for passersby to try and take home. 

Pro Tip: Take the Tel Aviv Food Tasting Tour of the Carmel Market with Tourist Israel. The 2-hour tour is an introduction to the market and a delicious tasting opportunity.

The Willamette Valley is Oregon’s wine country. Affectionately known as “Oregon’s answer to the Napa Valley,” these rolling hills span from Eugene in the south to Portland in the north, or around 150 miles.

Snaking through the valley, the Willamette River nourishes these fertile lands while mountain ranges protect the valley from extreme weather creating a more temperate climate all year long. It is essentially these conditions that make growing cool-climate grapes such as the pinot noir, Oregon’s premier grape, so perfect. It is easy to see why over 700 wineries call this valley home.

If you prefer a small, winemaker-direct experience, try these four amazing boutique wineries we visited on our day trip through the Willamette Valley.

While my visit to each winery was hosted, all opinions are my own.

1. Lenné Estate

Yamhill, Oregon

Lenné Estate sits on a 15.5-acre, south-facing hillside that was once an old cow pasture. Owners and winemakers, Steve and Karen Lutz purchased this rather barren property in 2000 with a vision of transforming it into a prosperous vineyard. After several years of toiling the land, their vision began to take shape and the first vintages from Lenné Estate were born.

According to Steve, there are four criteria to make a superb pinot noir: orientation, elevation, rocky soil, and a steep slope for proper drainage. He found all four. One sip of Lenné Estate Pinot Noir reflects the terroir of this land and the struggle to survive in this dense marine soil, giving a dense, full-bodied flavor.

The namesake and face of Lenné Estate belong to Karen’s father who passed away in 1999, leaving Karen and her sisters a small inheritance. It was this nest egg that hatched the vineyard and winery; only fitting that it be named after him.

After Note

After our visit to the Willamette Valley, we learned that Lenné Estate had been sold. As of 2023, their vintage collections will be sold at the Distaff Wine Company tasting room in Newberg, Oregon. It’s well worth a trip to secure a bottle of this full-bodied, fruity, and big-flavored pinot.

2. Bells Up Winery

A French horn features prominently on the sign of Bells Up Winery, signaling to us we are indeed at our destination. Dave and Sara Specter, owners and winemakers, greeted us and led us inside their cozy tasting room.

The Specters moved out West from Ohio and began their winery in 2012 with 9 acres of vines. Dave, a French horn player, borrowed from the musical term “bells up” to christen his winery. The term is used in a classical music score instructing French horn players to raise their instrument bells and project music with maximum intensity. It is a dramatic moment in any musical piece, and for Dave, the winery felt like his “bells up” moment.

Much like putting many notes together to make a song, the Spectors took an old tree farm and transformed it into a working vineyard and winery, with all its moving parts.

Hosting up to eight guests for a tasting allows for a very approachable winemaker experience. In fact, I found the Spectors extremely enjoyable, putting me at ease right away.

Due to the downpour of rain, we sipped our pinot inside the winery barrel room, but when the weather is fair, a tasting outside on the deck with sweeping views of the vineyard is the perfect place to be. The south-facing hillside allows for basking in a full day’s sun in the Chehalem Mountains AVA.

The Wine Tasting

Wine tastings are conducted by Dave, pouring each wine separately as he tells their accompanying story — from their beginnings to each deeply fruity characteristic. As in music, the wines not only tell a tale but also evoke a feeling of well-crafted art. It is no wonder Dave names his classic wines after the great symphonies. What better way to idle away an afternoon than by marrying wine and music?

Pro Tip: Bells Up Winery does not charge a tasting fee. Instead, due to the personally-guided tastings at this small winery, each guest is requested to purchase a minimum of three bottles. A $100 non-refundable fee is charged at the time of booking and then applied back to the minimum purchase. Keep in mind, it may be difficult to select only three wines to take home.

3. Potter’s Vineyard And Clay Art Gallery

Continuing on our tour, we drove through the rolling pastoral hills of this portion of the Willamette Valley near Newberg, Oregon, where we visited Potter’s Vineyard and Clay Art Studio.

We stepped away from the rainy, grey skies and into a warm, beautifully decorated oasis of sun-kissed walls and homemade earthen pottery lining every shelf. It felt as if we left the Pacific Northwest for Italy as we sat down with the owners and winemakers Bill and Sandy Sanchez.

The combination of art gallery and winery pairs extremely well in this homey environment where Bill is the winemaker, grower, and potter, while Sandy runs the tasting room. It was over a decade ago that this delightful couple purchased an existing 3.5-acre vineyard situated here in the Willamette Valley in what is known as the Laurelwood AVA.

Adding their finesse to the property, they combined their passions into creating an art gallery, pottery studio, and tasting room. They brought forward their expertise from life, synthesizing it artfully into the old-world-style crafting of wine. Bill holds a background in nutritional sciences which became foundational in the organic practices of his vineyard.

The Wine Tasting

Sit down at a table, drink an uncompromisingly good wine, or taste several as Bill pours each one into your glass. The conversation may turn to their commitment to organic practices in the vineyard, their LIVE-certified (Low Input Viticulture and Enology) and Salmon Safe standards, or even how they create their art. Perhaps with a little nudge, Bill will graciously tour you through his pottery studio. His passion for superior wine, sustainable practices, and fine art are the important threads to weaving his life’s tapestry. Bill’s knowledge, commitment, and integrity show in the wine he produces. Potter’s Vineyard and Clay Art Studio has won numerous awards for good reason. As Bill says, they strive “to be the very best tasting experience in Oregon.”

Their pinot noir, cabernet sauvignon, and chardonnay are always available. Seasonally, they offer a sparkling rosé, white pinot noir, or merlot. Wine tastings with Bill and Sandy are intimate, casual, and friendly, with the goal of “building beautiful memories.”

Pro Tip: Tastings include a flight of five wines and cost $20 per person. Add on a tour of the vineyards for an additional $10, and by special request, a tour of the artist’s pottery studio can be arranged.

4. Youngberg Hill Vineyards

Heading back towards our home base getaway from McMinnville, we stopped in at Youngberg Hill Vineyards. We heard, through the grapevine, about their stunning views overlooking this rich, enchanting valley. Let’s just say, we were not disappointed, even on a rather wet afternoon.

With a tasting of their estate pinot noir in hand, we meandered through their three-story, nine-suite inn awing over the extraordinary panoramic views of the Cascade Mountains in the distance, the Willamette Valley laid out before us, and the surrounding hillside carpeted with over 23 acres of vineyards (the estate encompasses a total of 50 acres). From inside the tasting room, located directly in the center of the estate, we watched the resident highland cattle make their way through the misty rain back up to the barn. It kind of felt like Scotland.

Another impressive feature of this winery is its owner, Nicolette Nickolaou. Youngberg Hill is one of the few woman-owned wineries in the Willamette Valley. Situated farther to the west, the vineyards here receive more cool marine air than other valley vineyards, establishing a terroir representative of this place and region.

Pro Tip: Youngberg Hill offers a walk-in, no-reservation-required tasting of a five-wine flight for $30 per person. For a more personal, direct, and elevated experience, a tasting appointment may be made beginning at $70 a person.

Hotel Oregon

Our home for a few days was at Hotel Oregon in McMinnville. Located in the heart of this wine country, McMinnville offered accessibility for our daily outings with small-town charm. Driving through this agricultural area for the first time, I looked out onto the green countryside and began to understand the attraction to this rich, dense, and diverse area.

Related Reading:

• From Waterfalls To Wineries: 17 Wonderful Experiences In Willamette Valley, Oregon
• 13 Fantastic Experiences In The Premier Pinot Noir Producing Area In The World
• 5 Fantastic Willamette Valley Wineries To Visit, Plus 5 Incredible Places To Stay

Seattle, Washington, is a melting pot of cultures represented in the city’s incredible restaurants. Puget Sound and the Pacific Coast bounty allow chefs to highlight their region’s finest seafood.

Agriculture and the foraging movement are regarded here. Chefs work with local purveyors, Indigenous people, and foragers to provide ingredients like chanterelles, stinging nettles, fiddlehead ferns, and organic produce.

While there are so many fantastic places to dine, seven recently-opened restaurants showcase chef heritage, coastal location, or locally-grown and sustainable foodways.

I was a guest of Visit Seattle for these experiences but all opinions are my own.

1. Musang

Musang’s Filipina-American Chef Melissa Miranda’s pop-ups became so successful she was supported (through a kick-starter campaign) to open her brick-and-mortar location in Beacon Hill. The 2023 James Beard semi-finalist won in the regional category for her Filipino dishes “inspired by her childhood memories.” The intimate dining space inside feels like a home. The patio out back is open, rain or shine, with the help of heaters and a protective covering. Musang’s mission is community-driven. They support community members in need and several of Seattle’s non-profit organizations.

What To Order At Musang

I am unfamiliar with Filipino cuisine, which made my visit an adventure. Our server helped us narrow our choices and suggested the Lumpiang Shanghai, spring rolls fried to a perfect crisp. The rolls, stuffed with pork, shrimp, and water chestnuts, are served with a house-made sawsawan or dipping sauce. These rolls dipped in the vinegar sauce were crunchy and full of flavor. We moved on to the signature Musang Joy Fried Chicken, a must-try here. We thoroughly enjoyed that crisp buttermilk exterior and added the Musang gravy, a creamy, delicious addition. We also savored the short rib Kare Kare braised and topped with a peanut butter bagoong sauce. The short rib fell off the bone, making the sauce rich and addictive. Lastly, we ordered the corn bibingka, a corn pudding/bread with warm honey and Maldon salt. It was the best savory, sweet finish.

Pro Tip: Order from the craft-cocktail menu. I sipped the Lima, a vodka, and a coconut milk concoction with pandan and guanabana juice; it was so tasty. You must make reservations here; it’s a popular spot.

2. Driftwood

Driftwood was opened in January of 2023 by Chef Dan Mallahan and his wife, chef, and business partner Jackie Mallahan. The acclaimed pair welcome you to their Alki Beach (West Seattle) dining room — a lovely, ocean-inspired space whose décor reflects the water with glass tiles, bleached wood, and marine hues. The seasonal offerings from Mallahan’s kitchen are an authentic taste of the Pacific Northwest, from the mountains to the sea. You’ll find exceptionally sourced fish, oysters, and shellfish, plus wild foods foraged for generations by native peoples. The hyper-local menu is curated from partnerships with farms and the local Quinault and Makah tribes.

What To Order At Driftwood

The menu is seasonal but you can bet on Chef Dan’s “Shellfish From Our Friends” — oysters and accompanying mignonette. I was introduced to the salted Columbia River sturgeon with bok choy, local pear, watermelon radish, green tomato, aji pepper aioli, and Marrakech olive oil. This fish is exceptional and elevated with fresh ingredients. I savored the Bellingham Bay Dungeness, lump crab with fennel powder, crab fat hollandaise, and pickled celery root over chickpea “panisse” fries. The dungeness crab was the star and so fresh. The other ingredients were the perfect backdrop to showcase this local crustacean. I dug into a salad of winter greens and Cascadia Creamery glacier blue cheese garnished with poached apples, spiced pecans, and an apple pâte. This is Washington on a plate and it’s tasty. Lastly, the pumpkin cheesecake on a local ginger shortbread crust had the right spice and incredible silkiness. It was decorated with toasted pepitas, fried sage, and Chantilly cream. This was a lovely experience in the perfect setting.

3. Aerlume

Aerlume is perfectly placed above Elliot Bay, near Pike Place Market. It’s a dramatic space to dine, embracing the elements of earth, water, air, and fire. The jaw-dropping views and the dusky light streaming through the floor-to-ceiling windows open to the outdoors and align with the restaurant’s philosophy. The 20-seat indoor fire table adds that dramatic touch to a stunning interior. At the same time, Executive Chef Douglas Jones honors local seasonal ingredients and pure flavors in his expansive open kitchen. Even the name keeps the heirloom seeds that grow those impossibly fresh ingredients. 

What To Order At Aerlume

As a vegetable lover, I adored the crispy cauliflower with golden raisins, caper salsa, and red curry yogurt. The dish, sprinkled with fresh herbs, was flavorful, and the crunch was satisfying. The dungeness crab lettuce wraps with crispy shallots, Fresno chiles, and red curry citrus vinaigrette had a hint of heat that didn’t overwhelm the delicate crab. I adored the wild Alaskan black cod served with lemon chile spinach, andouille sausage, heirloom carrots, and brown butter chestnuts. It was earthy and delicious. 

Pro Tip: Make your reservation before sunset to enjoy the gorgeous view.

4. Mountaineering Club

Mountaineering Club sits on the 16th floor atop the funky Graduate Seattle hotel supplying panoramic city views. Folks flock here for the regional ingredients in cheeky campsite-inspired plates, creative craft cocktails, and a roast-your-own marshmallow s’more dessert.

What To Eat At Mountaineering Club

Start with potato chip nachos as you sip a Forest Floor cocktail. It’s mixed with Sennzafinne autumn amaro, cinnamon syrup, lemon, and sparkling apple cider. It’s delicious and garnished with a mushroom slice and an acorn. Next, tuck into a wagyu and dungeness dog, or a mushroom grilled cheese with wild mushrooms, truffle, and Comte cheese. 

5.Tidal+

Tidal+ is a beautiful spot to enjoy sustainable seafood and locally-grown ingredients. The floor-to-ceiling windows and low lighting make for a romantic setting in the heart of downtown Seattle. The menu is over 50 percent gluten-free, so guests who prefer this style of dining can enjoy various dishes on the reimagined menu.

The seafood-focused menu features local salmon, a catch of the day, and a fresh oyster program. I enjoyed the seafood chowder with clams, fish of the day, shrimp, potato, thyme oil, and bacon. Since the chowder was hearty, I chose the crab cakes with bearnaise sauce, fennel piquillo salad, espelette, and American caviar. Dessert lovers who prefer gluten-free should try the mango cherry passion, a mango passionfruit crème, lemon sponge cake, vanilla almond shortbread, and cherry glaze.

Pro Tip: There’s live music on Wednesdays during their incredible happy hour.

6. Taku

Taku’s Japanese-American Chef, Shota Nakajima (Top Chef), opened Taku in 2020. It closed during the pandemic, reopening in May 2021 as a fried chicken (karaage) restaurant and bar. Taku has a relaxed vibe with a rainbow of colored chairs and vibrant Japanese comics and posters pasted on the walls. It feels like you are in the back alley of Osaka.

What To Order At Taku

Nakajima’s karaage is marinated, battered, and twice-fried, creating a moist crunch. Its menu focuses on fried chicken thigh nuggets served with your choice of flavors alone, as a bowl or sandwich. I ordered General Shota’s Chicken, a stir fry of seasonal veggies like kale and zucchini tossed in a garlicky, teriyaki sauce topped with a few karaage nuggets. It was addictive. I sipped a Dirty Shirley, a Shirley Temple with homemade grenadine and vodka. The bar crafts its shrubs here.

Pro Tip: The three-time James Beard Award semi-finalist expanded his empire next door at the Redhook Brew Lab when he opened Kōbo, an unusual pizza restaurant combining Detroit-style pizza and Japanese ingredients.

7. The George 

The George, inside the Fairmont Olympic Hotel Seattle, has been reimagined with a modern aesthetic. Initially opened in 1924, the doors reopened in 2022, and now, weekend brunch is on the menu.

What To Order At The George

Spanish design studio Lázaro Rosa-Violán reimagined the historic dining room, and now the menu reflects that modern vision. Classic dishes like eggs Benedict, especially topped with local smoked salmon, are fantastic, as is the smoked salmon quiche with Comte, asparagus, and mixed greens. If you’re hungry for lunch, choose the decadent Chanterelles Gnudi with nettle pesto, baby spinach, pinenuts, and parmesan cheese.

When I first moved to Chile, I remember being told that the country was famous for the three Ws — wine, women, and weather. I can’t speak to the second W, but I can say I understand why the wine and weather are famous in Chile.

What generally isn’t considered famous in Chile is its cuisine. Before moving there, I had no pre-made list of all the foods I wanted to try when I arrived. I don’t even think I would have been able to name a type or style of food that Chile is known for. 

However, the country does indeed have a unique cuisine. In this article, I will highlight the five foods and drinks you must sample to eat like a local in Chile, plus where to find them.

1. The Completo

Not exactly a culinary masterpiece, the completo is Chile’s take on the hotdog. Translating to “complete,” the completo is topped with mayonnaise (a Chilean staple in and of itself), diced tomatoes, and of course, palta, or smashed avocado (perhaps even more of a staple than the mayo).

Along with these three necessary ingredients, sauerkraut (a remnant from the many German immigrants who fled to Chile in the 19th century) is sometimes added. Stuff this dog and all its ingredients into a bun, and you have the famous completo.

Where To Order The Completo

The completo is Chilean street food at its best. It is super cheap and easy to take on the go. It can be found at nearly any street vendor, though my favorite place to purchase and eat a completo is downtown at Plaza De Armas. There are plenty of park benches on which to sit and tons of people watching to be had while enjoying this most Chilean of hotdogs.

2. Empanada De Pino

Nearly every country in the world has some version of an empanada — be it a dumpling, a pierogi, or an egg roll. Yumminess stuffed into some kind of breading is always popular. Chile, along with many Latino cultures, has the empanada. The empanada that is specific to and well-known in Chile is the empanada de pino.

This is a baked, handheld empanada filled with ground beef, onions, a hard-boiled egg, raisins, and black olives. I know those ingredients don’t exactly sound like they go together; raisins and beef? But, trust me, you’ve got to try it.

The raisins add an unexpected sweetness that balances the savoriness of the pino mixture. I also love that because it is all hidden inside the baked dough. You get a surprise in every bite.

Where To Order Empanada De Pino

While the empanada de pino is also great street food for on-the-go, it can be found in many sit-down restaurants as well as street vendors. My favorite place to get all types of empanadas is Todo Empanada in Valparaiso, Chile.

3. Pebre 

I’m a firm believer that condiments make anything better. An empanada de pino dipped into some spicy and delicate pebre is heaven. Pebre can most closely be defined as Chile’s salsa. 

Pebre is a mix of tomatoes, cilantro, onions, aji peppers for some spice, and oil and vinegar (it’s this that makes it different than typical salsas). It is most commonly served with bread and is often a starter on any dinner table. However, it is also often served with meats such as choripan. 

I don’t have a particular restaurant to suggest to sample this delight. Instead, I encourage you to sample a variety of all the different pebre you may find on your table during your travels in Chile. 

Pebre is probably my favorite take away from living in Chile. I still make it at home often. On September 18, Chile’s Independence Day, I always try to make empanadas de pino and pebre to celebrate and remember my time there.

4. Terremoto

Yes, a terremoto is a natural disaster known as an earthquake and quite infamous in Chile, but it is also a signature cocktail in the country. Not surprisingly, this sweet drink was invented after the 1985 earthquake in Chile. It is very popular during the Independence Day celebrations which tend to last an entire week.

It combines a very young, sweet wine made from either apples or grapes (called “chicha”) with pineapple ice cream and grenadine. Think of an adult root beer float; hold the root beer and add the sweet.

Where To Order Terremoto

The absolute best place to try a classic terremoto is at La Piojera. This is a famous dive bar located near the Mercado Central in Santiago, Chile. The name translates to “the flea house,” and while this might describe some of the clientele, the bar itself is a far cry from this. 

My first time in La Piojera, I drank my share of terremotos and ended up dancing la cuaca (a traditional Chilean courting dance that involves a handkerchief) with many of the local men. Come with an adventurous spirit to enjoy the true heart of Santiago.

5. Pisco Sour

Don’t worry, I haven’t forgotten the most famous and delicious cocktail in Chile. I mean, I named my cat after this beautiful liquor made from grapes (often a brandy or a grappa), if that tells you anything about how much I love it. 

While I usually prefer the easier and less-fancy piscola (pisco and coke, very similar to a rum and coke), a pisco sour is a must-try on any visit to Chile. This is a mixture of Chilean pisco (this is important as there is quite a debate between Chile and Peru over where pisco originated), the juice of a pica lime (a particularly acidic lime found in the Atacama Desert in Chile), and powdered sugar.

You may be familiar with another type of pisco sour, one that comes with egg whites in it. This, along with the pica lime, is generally the main difference between a Chilean and Peruvian pisco sour. Though, I’ve had pisco sours in Chile that had egg whites and others in Peru that didn’t. It will really all depend on the establishment. 

The closest drink I can compare this to as far as the taste is a margarita. It’s got that sweet-and-sour balance, all while being one-of-a-kind because of the pisco. If you are not so sure about a terremoto, you could opt for Chile’s national drink, the pisco sour at La Piojera.

Pro Tips: My favorite middle-of-the-road Chilean pisco that can be found in some liquor stores in the U.S. is the brand Capel. This is what I use to make my piscolas at home, but it can also be used to make a pisco sour. Because pica lime is not found in the U.S., or really outside of Chile, use a mix of both lemon and lime juices to achieve the right balance.

Whether you are arriving via a cruise ship or flying into Puerto Vallarta International Airport (PVR), Puerto Vallarta serves as the main point of entry not only into the states of Jalisco and Nayarit in Mexico but to the Pacific Coast. On the long stretches of beaches, activities range from ATVing and swimming in hidden beaches to an active nightlife. This welcoming environment has become a go-to destination for couples, small groups, retirees, the LGBT community, and especially individuals looking for a quick getaway.

One of the most attractive aspects of this destination is the food options within the city limits. Whether you are staying near the Marina Vallarta, Zona Romantica, or in the El Centro or 5 de Diciembre neighborhoods, you will have plenty of options.

Below are my personal favorites and suggestions on what to order.

1. Birrieria Gonzalez

Located at the intersection of C. Politécnico Nacional and Quimixto, Birrieria Gonzalez is a food stand with temporary seating, umbrellas for shade, and tables off to the side. Open from 7 a.m.–5:00 p.m., this stand attracts construction workers, passersby, families from the neighborhood, and wayward travelers such as myself.

I learned about this location by hearing more than a handful of locals mention it in conversations. The stand is the place to be if you are looking for a filling, inexpensive breakfast or lunch.

What To Order At Birrieria Gonzalez

The menu is simple: birria tacos. Order by quantity starting with a single taco at 20 pesos a pop (about $1.11). They also serve a range of soft drinks.

Pro Tip: It’s cash only. If you are low on cash, there is an ATM inside the Kiosk Convenience Store. You can also find a Banjercito Bank Branch at the end of C. Politécnico Nacional.

2. Blake’s Restaurant & Bar

Located on the second floor of Puerto Magico mall, which is connected to the Puerto Vallarta Cruise Port, Blake’s Restaurant & Bar will be your first restaurant option if you are entering the city via a cruise or taking one of the numerous water-based tours. 

Blake’s features live local entertainment often playing covers of ‘50s, ‘60s, and ‘70s rock hits. Happy hour is from 2–5 p.m. It also has numerous televisions featuring hockey, football (soccer), and almost any other sport you would like to watch while eating.

Outdoor seating is available if you want to get some views of the area or a beautiful background for your photos. The sunset at the marina is worth waiting for.

What To Order At Blake’s Restaurant & Bar

Blake’s is a pub sports bar atmosphere for anyone looking for something closer to home. It offers comfort food in a comfortable environment among other travelers. 

• Drinks: Pacifico Cerversa, rum & coke
• Starter: Dedos de queso (cheese fingers)
• Main Entrée: Camarones empanizados (fried calamari)
• Popular Entrée: Hamburguesa la clásica (hamburger)

3. Los Muertos Brewing 

With two locations — one in Old Town and the other in Francisco Villa — I chose to spend most of my time at Old Town.

Officially opened on November 2, 2012, which fell on Día de los Muertos in Mexico, Los Muertos Brewing has plenty of space for big groups.

It offers a wide selection of beers and meals, including a pizza oven in the back. Most travelers stop in for a quick drink or bring friends. Locals go straight for the build-your-own pizza. 

What To Order At Los Muertos Brewing 

Lunch is the best time to visit if you want to avoid the crowds. Ladies Night Specials happen every Thursday from 5:00 p.m.–midnight. Discounted meal combos come with a beer or soda from 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Happy hour happens every day from 4–6 p.m.

• Drinks: Mexicana rubia, anillo de fuego (chili ale), and Chachalaca IPA 
• Starter: Alitas (chicken wings) with either barbecue or buffalo sauce
• Entrée: Pizza with marinara sauce, Italian sausage and bacon, and cheese (fresh mozzarella)

4. Monzón Brewing Co. 

Monzón was started by a couple who traveled to Puerto Vallarta from Seattle and fell in love with it. Monzón Brewing Co. feels like the type of bar where you can always meet up with your friends. The staff are relaxed and friendly, and it’s in the heart of the Romantic Zone. 

What To Order At Monzón Brewing Co.

The main bar gets crowded fairly quickly. Expect a mix of expats who, just like the owners, fell in love with the city and travelers who found their way in. There are two floors, so you have plenty of space to spread out once the regular patrons come in. 

• Drinks: Los Arcos American Amber Ale, Peachy Gringo Wheat Ale, Hazy Bay IPA, and sangria
• Starters: Boneless tenders with barbecue-beer sauce and sriracha-soya served with fries and house ranch dressing
• Entrée: Candied pork belly tacos with a beer-maple sesame glaze

5. La Langosta Loca Beach Club

Built on Playa Olas Atlas, La Langosta Loca Beach Club is in the middle of where all the nightlife converges. 

Come in the evening to hear live music on the beach where you will be prompted to dance and have a good time as the sun sets behind you. 

What To Order At La Langosta Loca Beach Club

• Starter: Ceviche de La Casa Clásico is a mix of fish, shrimp, and octopus with purple onions, tomatoes, and peppers
• Entrée: Molcajete de Mariscos is a mix of grilled shrimp, octopus, fillet of fish, and mussels piled on a hot molcajete and bathed in a morita and tomatillo chili sauce.

6. Los Del Coapi – Casa Pública 

Located in the El Coapinole (Coapi) neighborhood, Los del Coapi’s goal is to take travelers away from the more touristy areas of the city so they can experience Puerto Vallarta like a local. 

A selection of mixed and craft beers is in the front and the kitchen in the back offers light fare. 

What To Order At Los Del Coapi – Casa Pública

Take a taxi or Uber/Lyft to the location and grab a seat at one of the few tables. The location is fairly small and most of the staff speak only Spanish. This is more of a late-night hangout.

• Drinks: Pitiyork–Vienna Lager and Blue Magic/Blueberries Ale
• Starters: Papas gajo (potato wedges with seasoning), poutine, and flautas filled with either beer, chicken, or vegetables wrapped in a tortilla and deep fried

7. Food Park PV

This is where you bring your group if no one can decide what to eat. 

Located in the Hotel Zone, Food Park PV has perhaps the greatest selection of food stands, stores, bars, seating areas, and kids’ sections in the area.

Options include sushi, wings, pastries, pizza, and everything in between. With an open layout that accommodates anyone with mobility issues, a wheelchair, or a stroller, other visitors can walk in and grab a seat.

What To Order At Food Park RV

After finding a place to sit, you can order drinks from any of the roving staff. In the meantime, do a lap around to view the food options.

• Starter: Cluck & Co. boneless lemon pepper wings and criss-cross fries
• Entrée: Park grill container with papa con carne (various grilled meats and potatoes with a creamy sauce)

8. Restaurante Lolita

Opening its doors in 1958, Restaurante Lolita serves a mix of locals and travelers who happen to pass by. Located right in 5 de Diciembre, this is where you come to try popular local foods ranging from alambres and chilaquiles to molletes.

What To Order At Restaurante Lolita

Lolita’s has a huge menu so it may take you a while to narrow in on what you want. There is no particular item that tastes better than the others. Most travelers go to the taco gorditas, dorado, or enchiladas.

My recommendations based on what I tried are:

• Breakfast: Huevos Mexicana (Mexican-style eggs with tomatoes, onions, and jalapeños)
• Lunch: Platillo Mexicano (chile reileno, bistec, quesadilla, sopa, and enchiladas)

Pro Tip: This restaurant is cash only.

9. La Tia Ñaña Mariscos

Also located in 5 de Diciembre, the mostly locals-only La Tia Ñaña Mariscos seafood restaurant has been around since 1975. Brought to my attention by a local, I invited him to dinner so we could discuss food.

Since it is a seafood restaurant, you will find a wide range of seafood dishes. A lot of local families come out for dinner on the weekend before heading home.

What To Order At La Tia Ñaña Mariscos

Anxious to try the soup that was highly recommended, I went right for it after a few chips. After starting with the small bowl, I followed up with another.

• Entrée: Cazuela Especial “La Tia” (soup filled with octopus, shrimp, fish, onions, and guacamole) — absolutely delicious!

Related Reading:

• 9 Amazing Things To Do In Beautiful Punta De Mita, Mexico
• 11 Best Things To Do In Enchanting San Miguel De Allende
• How To Spend A Perfect Long Weekend In Beautiful Loreto, Mexico

There are all sorts of reasons to travel to Greece. There’s a rich history with loads of museums to visit and ruins to stumble upon. There are gorgeous beaches with see-through water and pink sands. There are hundreds of inhabited islands to easily hop to. But one of my main reasons for visiting Greece is the amazing food.

Before leaving for Greece, I dreamed about grilled octopus and hunks of feta cheese. I made lists in my head of everything I wanted to try. I made friends jealous just talking about all the food I would soon be devouring. Here are just five of the delicious must-try foods to savor while traveling throughout Greece.

1. Greek Salad

Or, do they just call it “salad” in Greece, like “bacon” in Canada? I don’t know because I only learned about 10 Greek words while there and salad wasn’t one of them. What I do know is that these salads are staples to nearly any Greek meal and I was happy to eat like a local.

Unlike most Greek salads you find in the States, a proper Greek salad does not have lettuce. Nope. Instead, it just has oodles and oodles of everything else yummy. Most of the Greek salads I tried had big chunks of tomatoes, green peppers, cucumbers, red onions, whole kalamata olives, and a huge chunk of feta cheese to top it off. Drizzle it all with some of the best extra virgin olive oil in the world and sprinkle it with fresh oregano, and you’ve got an amazing Greek salad. I literally ate one of these at least once a day.

A spin on this salad is the dakos salad, famous on the island of Crete. This has many of the same ingredients as a traditional Greek salad with two exceptions. Instead of feta cheese, the cheese used in a dakos salad is called mizithra. This is a soft, creamy cheese made from either goat or sheep milk. The addition of barley rusks — a dry, hard biscuit-type bread — makes this salad more of a meal than a starter.

2. Gyro 

This easy handheld sandwich is familiar in the United States due to its popularity and convenience. However, gyros in Greece usually have either beef, pork, chicken, or a combo of any of these for their meat. This is different from the States where the meat is often lamb. 

Along with the shaved, paper-thin slices of roasted meat off a glistening spit, the pita is packed with tomatoes, onions, tzatziki, and fried potatoes. That last ingredient may well be a surprise to you. It was to me, but a welcome one.

Gyros can be found on nearly every street corner and cost about 2–3 euros, making them an easy, quick, and cheap meal. They are wrapped in foil and meant to be taken with you on the go as the corner vendors rarely have seats to sit and enjoy them.

Gyro Sides

The fries I mentioned inside the gyro are probably the best fries I’ve ever had. All over Greece, I was surprised by the number of restaurants that offered French fries as a side, though not upset. Why are they the best? Because instead of being fried in peanut oil like in the United States, these fries are fried in the aforementioned best extra virgin olive oil in the world. 

That extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) can be purchased and shipped (because you can’t take liquid in your carry-on) from nearly any tourist shop you enter. I highly recommend bringing some home with you.

3. Tzatziki 

This might be one of my favorite Greek foods I’ve tried. Again, you’ve probably heard about tzatziki, but I guarantee you, similar to that out-of-this-world EVOO, this tzatziki is made from real Greek yogurt, the likes of which I’ve not found in the States.

With a base of creamy, savory Greek yogurt, tzatziki is a dip or sauce used on nearly everything. With loads of shredded cucumbers, lemon juice, garlic, and, you guessed it, EVOO, this dip adds flavor to anything. It is often served as a starter with chunks of pita bread.

4. Octopus

I’ve searched and searched for octopus where I live. All I’ve ever found is fried calamari rings, where all you really taste is the fried breading and whatever dip the restaurant decides to serve with it. I scoured food pictures before I left for Greece, drooling over plates of full arms of broiled, poached, or boiled in red wine vinegar octopus. It was never fried.

I had octopus all those ways during my time in Greece. I enjoyed the octopus in red wine vinegar the most. A bit more on the expensive side, as is most seafood in Greece, octopus will run you anywhere from 13–20 euros. Octopus was a treat I enjoyed a handful of times. 

I was surprised by the fact that most octopus, along with most seafood, is actually frozen. After asking about this in a few different restaurants, I learned that this is quite common with seafood around the world. I never found that it took away from the quality. If you want fresh seafood, it’s best to visit local markets and prepare it yourself.

5. Dolmades

One of the best meals I had in Greece consisted of a simple plate of tzatziki with tomato, cucumber slices, and dolmades at a tiny four-table restaurant in the Plaka neighborhood of Athens. Aspro Alogo is not easy to find on a narrow one-way street. I must have walked by it four times before I found it.

I ordered the classic dolmades made of meat, rice, dill, and mint stuffed into a vine leaf. I’ve always enjoyed these at home, but these were on a whole other level. Dolmades can be all sorts of stuffed vegetables as I learned along my journey.

Also called gemista or yemista, tomatoes, peppers, and zucchini are all stuffed with similar ingredients as the vine leaves. These are often an entrée-sized portion with two–three stuffed vegetables to enjoy. These can also be found with a vegetarian stuffing.

Pro Tip: Aspro Alogo is located at Apollonos, Athina 105 57, Greece. It is quite close to the Syntagma Square metro station. If you are having difficulty finding it (even my GPS wasn’t all that helpful), don’t hesitate to ask a friendly local for directions. The journey will be worth it.

These are just a handful of the delicious and healthy foods I tried while traveling in Greece. Many of these I’ve attempted to make at home to varying degrees of success. The tzatziki, for one, is now a staple in my home. I hope you get a chance to try all of these incredible dishes from Greece.

Rogue Valley Wine Country in southern Oregon was recently named a top global wine destination by Wine Enthusiast and Forbes magazines. It is easy to see why with all the area has to offer. Winemakers and farmers love the microclimates and terroir that allow more than 70 different varietals to thrive in the valley. Discover four unique wine trails each with stunning scenery, miles of vineyards, and destination wineries you’ll want to spend the whole day at. 

But there is more to the Medford area than wine. Crater Lake is Oregon’s only national park and well worth the extra miles. It’s a gorgeous, picturesque drive with viewpoints and waterfalls along the route. Table Rocks offer two beautiful hikes just 5 minutes from Medford. Summer brings festivals worth driving for and agritourism abounds in the area from spring into the fall.

Fly into the Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport and you can be at a winery within 10 minutes. The Interstate 5 corridor cuts right through the center of the area making it very accessible. This is a friendly destination and families are welcome at many wineries. Medford makes a great, centrally-located town to make your base while you discover and explore the Rogue Valley. Visitors will find a variety of hotels and restaurants and surprisingly little traffic or crowds. Traveling with family, friends, or a couple’s getaway, there is something for everyone.

Pro Tip: Fly Alaska Airlines and a case of wine flies home with you for free. You can also show your boarding pass at 43 southern Oregon wineries for complimentary tastings. Most wineries have boxes suitable for flying, or they use a wine suitcase such as this one: I Just Traveled With This Wine Suitcase And I Am Not Sure How I Lived Without It. Just note the suitcase can only have wine in it to travel for free.

I was hosted by Travel Southern Oregon and Travel Medford, Heart of the Rogue on a press trip. All opinions are my own.

1. Upper Rogue Wine Trail

The Upper Rogue Wine Trail is just northeast of Medford and rolls through a beautiful countryside of the northern end of the valley.. Enjoy views of lush vineyards, snow capped mountains, and Instagram-worthy family farms. Each winery along the trail is unique and embodies the neighbor helping neighbor mentality of the Rogue farming culture.

Cliff Creek Cellars

The second and third generations of the Gavin Family run Cliff Creek Cellars, which is known for its “Big Reds.” Syrah and cabernet sauvignon varietals comprise the majority of their acreage, with cabernet franc, merlot, and sangiovese comprising the rest. The tasting room at their Gold Hill Vineyard is rustic yet charming with its outdoor patio, not just overlooking the grapes but practically in them. Make sure to try their award-winning 2020 Red Red Wine, a red blend comprised of 70 percent syrah, 18 percent tempranillo, 6 percent sangiovese, and 6 percent zinfandel. At $19.99, it is a bargain for this stellar estate-grown wine.

Pro Tip: Visit the websites of the four wine trails to see if there are any events or promotions during your visit. An example is Roam the Rogue, a fun event that sells out every year.

Kriselle Cellars

To really experience the terroir of southern Oregon, you need to visit Kriselle Cellars. Owner Scott Steingraber is a self-described soil geek. In his previous career, he served as one of the engineers building the Tacoma Narrows Bridge. Now, he is the owner and winemaker for the brand. The site of these vineyards has really unique soil shaped by thousands of years of alluvial deposits and geologic upsets. It created a low-vigor soil where the vines struggle. It produces less grapes but of an exceptional quality. Steingraber likes to say there’s a millennia in every bottle. This obsession with soil continues to the wine labels, each representing a different type of soil. Wife Kriselle serves as the vineyard and ranch manager.

The tasting room is stunning with both indoor and outdoor spaces open year-round. On weekends, enjoy wood-fired pizzas with your tasting. Make sure to try the Di’tani, a red blend of five varietals that really highlights Steingraber’s skill as a winemaker.

2. Crater Lake National Park

Crater Lake is Oregon’s only national park and it’s also the deepest lake in the United States. The drive to Crater Lake National Park from Medford is an iconic  one. Make sure to get an early start for a day trip because you’re going to want to stop at quite a few pull outs for photos. Heading to the park, use the OR-62 East highway — also known as the Crater Lake Highway, part of the Rogue-Umpqua Scenic Byway, a National Scenic Byway. This picturesque drive is nicknamed the “Highway of Waterfalls.” It parallels the “Wild and Scenic” Rogue River. Plan to stop near Prospect at the Rogue River Gorge Viewpoint where the river roars through a narrow canyon and, if time allows, hike the short 15 minutes to Mill Creek and Barr Creek Falls. 

Once at Crater Lake National Park, plan to hop on the Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway which will take you around the lake. Make sure to stop at Rim Village in the park to visit the historic Crater Lake Lodge and take the walking tour of the Historic Rim Village. When you are ready to head back to Medford, continue to follow the byway for an alternative route. It is an All-American Road and one of only 42 in the United States. It highlights how the area is dominated by volcanoes and how they molded the landscape of the area.

Check out How To Visit Crater Lake National Park In Oregon.

3. Applegate Valley Wine Trail

The Applegate Valley Wine Trail meanders along the Applegate River in a bucolic area of hills looming over a fertile valley. I loved this expansive area of small family farms, grass-fed cattle, and stellar wineries. Its remote location lends itself to a more leisurely approach to wine tasting with onsite tasting rooms you’ll want to stay at all day long.

Wooldridge Creek Winery

This is one of my favorite vineyards in the area. At Wooldridge Creek Winery, visitors can enjoy spectacular wines and cheese made from the organic milk of local cows. It is Oregon’s first creamery and winery. The tasting room spills out into a garden with views for miles. Shady spaces beckon you to linger and I did. I found it hard to leave this beautiful location. The farm also serves as a sort of shelter for unwanted animals, which children really enjoy seeing. Make sure to try the 2017 Warrick Red Reserve, a unique blend of tempranillo, zinfandel, and malbec grapes. The grapes began ripening in a process known as “veraison” during the eclipse of 2017, a year with a wet spring, moderate heat, and a dry harvest producing the perfect conditions for a great wine.

4. Festivals

Medford and southern Oregon are known for the arts and culture. Visitors can enjoy beautiful historic theaters and a variety of performing arts. Annual festivals are a huge draw as well.

Heart Of The Rogue Festival

Recently awarded Festival of the Year by the Oregon Festival & Events Association, The Heart Of The Rogue Festival is produced by Travel Medford and highlights the best of the Rogue Valley. Taking place in October each year, this 2-day festival brings together local artists, makers, musicians, and unique experiences. The bounty of the fall harvest is offered from local farmers. It is held in downtown Medford.

Britt Music And Arts Festival

The Britt Music and Arts Festival is an outdoor amphitheater with some seating but mostly a grassy hill to spread a blanket on in true Oregon fashion. The festival events run from June through August and features dozens of outdoor summer concerts by big names we all know and love. Visitors will enjoy an eclectic mix of world-class artists in jazz, reggae, rock, pop, and country music– even stand up comedy celebrities come on the Britt stage every year. Oregon Shakespeare Festival

One of the oldest and largest professional nonprofit theaters in the United States, the Oregon Shakespeare Festival was founded in 1935. The 2023 season kicks off with a production of Romeo and Juliet and runs from April to October.

5. Rogue Valley Food Trail

The Rogue Valley Food Trail is a self-guided tour that highlights the bounty of the Rogue Valley. Download the brochure, which includes a map and information on what to see and do, where to stay, what to eat, and where to shop. Visitors will enjoy agritourism at local family farms, orchards, and ranches. There are 52 businesses on the trail, which extends from Grants Pass in the north to Ashland in the south.

6. Bear Creek Wine Trail

Explore back roads through the beautiful Bear Creek Valley on the Bear Creek Wine Trail. Although it feels like the middle of nowhere, you are just a short drive from Medford. Historic estates beckon with magnificent views of the Rogue Valley.

Irvine And Roberts Vineyards

Although not officially on the Bear Creek Wine Trail, Irvine and Roberts Vineyards are in the area. I fell in love with their stunning tasting room set in the foothills of the Cascade and Siskiyou Mountains. Visit on either Friday or Sunday and book the Vineyard to Table experience. During this 2-hour tasting extravaganza, you’ll try three wines carefully selected by the winemaker to pair with a three-course meal designed by the vineyard chef. It is created using seasonal ingredients from the Rogue Valley.

7. Artisan Corridor

Great wine needs a good selection of pairings to really enjoy it. Stop by the Artisan Corridor where you can experience excellence. Visit Lillie Belle Farms where the chocolate is not just eaten but experienced. Try their delectably unique flavors such as Stella Blue — an original concoction of chocolate and Rogue Creamery’s blue cheese which just begs to be paired with a bottle of Rogue Valley red wine. Pick up a variety of artisan provisions to picnic at one of the local wineries. Next door, stop by the Coquette Bakery for a freshly baked European-inspired loaf of bread and visit Rogue Grape for a bottle of wine to go with it.

Pro Tip: Make sure to visit the Harry & David Country Store in Medford. In addition to its iconic products, visitors will find a variety of local products, a selection of fresh produce, and the largest selection of local wines from the Rogue Valley. It’s well worth the stop.

For further reading:

• How To Spend A Perfect Weekend In Picturesque Medford, Oregon
• Why This Scenic Coastal Drive Is My Favorite Annual Tradition
• 14 Best Experiences In Southern Oregon

A trip to Las Vegas means many different things to different people. For Broadway lovers, you can see a different show every night. For the outdoorsy types, we were thrilled to find Death Valley National Park only a 2-hour drive from Las Vegas — and well worth the trip! And of course, almost anywhere you go in Las Vegas is a gambler’s delight. 

No matter how you choose to spend your time in Las Vegas, you’re bound to work up an appetite. The good news is that the restaurant choices are almost endless here. The bad news is the huge variety makes it hard to choose. We stayed downtown on our recent Vegas trip and were on a mission to eat well on a budget. Here are the best cheap eats in Las Vegas, in no particular order.

1. Garden Buffet

Southpoint Casino

I confess to loving good buffets. Back in the “before” days, buffets in Las Vegas were a common thing, but these days, not so much. While the fancy strip buffets are more plentiful, the price tag was more than we wanted to spend. On the recommendation of our hotel staff, we made the quick drive to the Garden Buffet at Southpoint Casino, located just minutes south of the Strip. According to the front desk rep, this is where the locals go. 

This large buffet offers a wide variety of foods — including Italian, Chinese, barbecue, and Mexican — a large salad bar, and a dessert station with lots of sweet options. The highlight of the buffet is the carving station, where you can get freshly-carved meats. We went on a Sunday when the featured dish at the carving station was prime rib. We liked the variety of choices at the buffet and felt it was a good deal for less than $35. Was it as good as the pricier buffets at Wynn and Caesar’s? Probably not, but it was almost half the price!

What To Order At Garden Buffet At Southpoint Casino

We liked the prime rib at the carving station.

Pro Tip: Southpoint Casino is massive and the buffet is busy. Go during off-peak times for fewer crowds.

2. Binion’s Cafe

Binion’s Casino

Looking for a Vegas throwback where you can grab a quick meal 24/7 right off the gaming floor? Binion’s Cafe has you covered. This little diner — towards the back of Binion’s Casino on Fremont Street across from slot machines — offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner. You won’t find luxurious decor or fancy presentations, but you will get classic dinner fare at a great price. 

What To Order At Binion’s

The Binion’s famous burger is delish and so is the classic Caesar salad with blackened chicken. If you want a steak, you can’t beat the ribeye steak and frites for less than $22.

3. American Coney Island

The D Casino

Who doesn’t love a Coney dog? The dogs at American Coney Island at The D Casino are grilled up fresh as you watch. I ordered the Coney with chili, mustard, and onions at this tiny, super casual spot on the ground floor of The D. Open 24 hours, here you can grab a satisfying dog or burger at any time. This place is as casual as you can get, but for less than $5, it’s a deal!

What To Order At American Coney Island

Induldge in the Detroit original Coney Island Dog with a side of cheese fries. 

4. Proper Eats Food Hall

Aria Casino

This upscale food court is not like the one at the mall where you noshed with your friends during high school. Proper Eats Food Hall is made up of top-of-the-line, highly sought-after restaurants that you won’t find anywhere else. Here, you can dine at the first Wexler’s Deli outside of Los Angeles, London’s famous Seoul Bird, New York’s Egghead, and more. You’ll find sushi, specialty donuts, ramen, gourmet burgers, and almost anything else you can dream of.

What To Order At Proper Eats Food Hall 

Try a made-to-order roll from the temaki bar with a side of temaki spicy dipping sauce.

5. Cadillac Mexican Kitchen & Tequila Bar

Golden Nugget Casino

Happy hour is a beautiful thing. The Cadillac Mexican Kitchen & Tequila Bar within the Golden Nugget Casino delivers a variety of cheap eats and drinks at happy hour and beyond. Located across from the pool in the casino, this place was rockin’ during a Monday night happy hour. Luckily, there was no wait and we were quickly seated in the modern bar space. We devoured our appetizers along with our cocktails. Serving a Mexican-centric menu, the Cadillac offers a multitude of traditional favorites including tamales and nachos. Starting this month, they’ll also unveil a weekend breakfast menu with breakfast fajitas, huevos rancheros, as well as American favorites.

What To Order At Cadillac Mexican Kitchen & Tequila Bar

The queso blanco and housemade guacamole with pickled jalapenos from the appetizer list are super popular. Try the Pink Cadillac Margarita for a different spin on a classic.

6. In-N-Out Burger

Anytime I’m anywhere close to In-N-Out Burger territory, I make room on the itinerary for a stop! In-N-Out is quality, fresh fast-food that’s a cut above any other fast food. I don’t even eat fast food, but I make an exception for In-N-Out Burger. It’s scrumptious!

What To Order At In-N-Out Burger

It’s hard to beat the double-double — a mouthwatering two-patty burger with fries.

Pro Tip: Go to the location at the Linq Promenade. You’ll want to check out this upscale outdoor entertainment and shopping complex.

7. Famous Foods Street Eats

Resorts World Casino

The newest casino on the strip, Resorts World, has an impressive food court with not-your-run-of-the-mill fast-food options. Famous Foods Street Eats is an Asian-inspired food court that’s top-of-the-line. You can get made-to-order handrolls at Nori Bar, peking duck burritos at FUHU Shack, and clay pot rice dishes from Singapore-based eatery Geylang Claypot Rice. You can also try favorites like Nashville hot chicken from Marcus Samuelsson’s Streetbird as well as Texas barbecue with a twist from James Beard Award-winning Blood Bros. The variety here is vast.

Pro Tip: For other good food court options, check out the Forum Food Hall at Caesar’s, Block 16 at the Cosmopolitan, Grand Canal Shoppes Food Court at the Venetian, and the Village Street Eateries at New York-New York.

8. Saginaw’s Deli

Circa Resort & Casino

The newest casino downtown, Circa is a cool and hip spot with a ton of amenities and lots of different dining options. One of the best is Saginaw’s Deli, a Jewish-style deli where you’ll find all the traditional deli favorites and then some. The deli is the creation of Michigan legend Paul Saginaw, known for the iconic, award-winning Zingerman’s Deli in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Open 24 hours a day, Saginaw’s Deli serves brunch all day, and you’ll find plenty of creative breakfast-type creations. With a menu full of Jewish comfort food like chicken matzo ball soup, and chopped liver pate, plus all the deli specialties you’d expect, choosing just one entrée is going to be tough.

What To Order At Saginaw’s Deli

Try Rosie’s Meatloaf or the Royal Flush Reuben.

9. Bacon Nation

The D Casino

Another tasty and economical dining spot is Bacon Nation at The D Casino. Bacon Nation focuses on good old bacon as the name suggests! Located on the second floor of the Fremont Street Experience hotspot, the restaurant’s 24/7 menu is centered around a love for all things bacon and incorporates 13 gourmet bacon varieties into a plethora of dishes.

What To Order At Bacon Nation

The Reverse BLT is a fun take on the classic sandwich, with bacon on the outside!

Remember that it’s possible to sample tons of different, unique foods Las Vegas offers and stick to your travel budget at the same time.

Related Reading:

• 24 Fabulous New Las Vegas Attractions (2023)
• My 8 Favorite Experiences On Fremont Street In Las Vegas
• 7 New And Unique Things To Do On The Las Vegas Strip

One of the thrills of living in Italy is being immersed in a nationwide passion for wine. This is a country that — with a massive 400-plus grape varieties and a string of constantly emerging globally-acclaimed wines — inevitably hovers close to the top of the list for wine aficionados.

Wine is enmeshed in the very fabric of Italy. Viniculture had already been established in Italy by the time the Phoenicians landed in Sicily some 2,000 years ago. And while traditional winemaking continues in most Italian regions, some incredibly exciting innovations are also taking place.

There are 20 Italian wine regions in total, with much of the countryside dedicated to producing wine, and for over 15 years, I’ve been walking with groups through Italy’s vineyard-carpeted landscape, meeting wine producers, and learning about some of their best wines. One thing I have learned over the years is that you simply can’t view Italian wine tourism in isolation. For me, enjoying Italian wine is completely wrapped up in the country’s tradition of amazing food and glorious landscapes.

Here are my favorite Italian wine regions.

1. Tuscany

Italy’s most important wine-growing region needs no introduction. Tuscany’s landscape of rolling hills dotted with farmhouses and castles, and its vast vineyards, olive groves, and regimented rows of cypress trees will always hold a special place in my heart. And the fact is that Tuscany’s vineyards are quite simply part of everyday life in the region.

Wine It’s Known For

Tuscany’s wine output ranges from dry whites to full-bodied reds, including some of the world’s most famous wines. This is the home of Chianti Classico, and the highest classified DOCG (Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita) reds, Brunello di Montalcino and Nobile di Montepulciano.

On the Tuscan Coast, however, several producers have demonstrated what a touch of creativity, innovation, and a step away from tradition can achieve. In the wine-producing area of Bolgheri, a combination of a unique microclimate and a mini revolution in winemaking, combined with a change in the country’s wine laws in 1992, has resulted in the creation of the ‘Super Tuscan’ wines, such as sassicaia and tignanello.

Pro Tip: The perfect end to dinner in Tuscany? A small glass of sweet vin santo dessert wine with a couple of cantucci biscuits.

2. Piedmont

A strong rival to Tuscany, and one of my favorites for its landscape, Piedmont is a high-altitude region at the foot of the Alps, close to the border with France. This is a region of rugged peaks and verdant hills dotted with family-owned wineries. Home to the ‘Slow Food’ movement, its dazzling world-renowned vintages are paired with truffle-infused dishes, creamy risottos, and tangy, aromatic cheeses.

Wine It’s Known For

The region produces red wines with rich complex flavors and more DOCG wines than anywhere else, including barolo and barbaresco, both created from the nebbiolo grape. But this elegant wine region is also renowned for its white wines — especially arneis and gavi — as well as its sparkling white Moscato d’Asti, often enjoyed as a dessert wine.

Pro Tip: Learn about wine from all around the Italian peninsula at the superb Banca del Vino (“The Wine Bank”) in the tiny village of Pollenzo.

3. Lombardy

Home to Italy’s glamorous capital city of Milan, with its chic-galleried malls and dazzling opera house, you wouldn’t automatically associate Lombardy with wine growing. But there are two distinct wine-growing areas: to the south of Milan, the little-visited Oltrepò Pavese, and to the north and east, the vineyards in the Valtellina and around Lake Garda.

Wine It’s Known For

Lombardy is best known for its sparkling Franciacorta DOCG, made using the traditional champagne method, but also for its powerful red Valtellina Superiore DOCG, made from the nebbiolo grape. Vineyards around the evocative Italian Lakes region produce some fabulous white wines and the traditional aromatic rosé or light red Chiaretto.

Pro Tip: Sip a glass of sparkling Franciacorta at a lakeside restaurant overlooking the glistening waters of Lake Como.

4. Trentino-Alto Adige

This stunning border region was formerly part of the Austro-Hungarian province of South Tyrol. The region’s capital, Bolzano, is a melting pot of Italian and German culture, with German-style bread and pretzels as popular as pizza and beer halls interspersed with wine cellars along the cobblestone streets. All in all, it’s a fascinating blend of influences and is also home to some of the country’s most spectacular mountain landscapes.

Wine It’s Known For

As a region, it’s well known for its exquisite wines, particularly the locally-produced pinot bianco and pinot grigio, which are excellent with fish dishes and traditional knödel (Tyrolean dumplings). Amongst the red wines, international varieties such as pinot noir and cabernet sauvignon sit alongside the local spicy red schiava (vernatsch) and lagrein wines — the perfect accompaniment to cold and dark meats and cheese.

Pro Tip: Explore the best of the region’s wine production on the Strada del Vino.

5. Friuli-Venezia Giulia

Located in the alpine foothills of northeastern Italy, bordering Austria and Slovenia, Friuli Venezia Giulia is another intriguing region characterized by its cross-cultural influences and a paradise for hikers. I love the variety of scenery that veers from green valleys and rolling hills to magnificent mountain peaks and UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Wine It’s Known For

It’s also a favorite with wine enthusiasts. The mild Mediterranean climate and cold air currents from the Alps are ideal conditions for white wines. In fact, the wines from the Collio region are considered to be amongst the best in Italy. Two of my favorites from the region include friulano and ribolla gialla, but at the many small family-owned wineries in the Collio hills, you’ll find ample opportunities to taste a wide range of refreshing light white wines accompanied by platters of local ham and cheese.

Pro Tip: Try different wines at one of the many small friendly cellars in Cormòns (the capital of the Collio region) accompanied by a tempting platter of affettati (salami, cheese, smoked trout, and boiled ham).

6. Sicily And Sardinia

Italy’s Islands

Italy’s largest island, Sicily produces a superb selection of wine thanks to a winning combination of a hot climate and volcanic soil. The vineyards on the slopes of Mount Etna are home to red grape varieties such as nerello mascalese and nerello cappuccio, as well as the best-known, dark, rich, and fruity Nero d’Avola. However, white grape varieties are also numerous, with the best wines including those from catarratto grapes. Dessert wines are also excellent, including marsala and zibibbo from Pantelleria — perfect with a pastry!

However, of all the Italian islands, Sardinia is probably my favorite, not least due to its rugged interior, which contrasts so perfectly with its glorious coastline of white sand beaches fringed by turquoise water. This dramatic divergence is also evident in some of its wine. The excellent bold red Cannonau di Sardegna is wonderful with Sardinian’s rustic cuisine. The more refreshing white Vermentino di Sardegna is the ideal accompaniment to seafood appetizers, fish, and shellfish.

Pro Tip: Head inland to experience Sardinia’s mouthwatering gastronomic treat, porceddu (“suckling pig”), cooked whole over an open fire and washed down with a robust red cannonau.

If you’re looking for specific wines to add to your cellar, check out these articles:

• The 11 Best Wines To Buy At Aldi According To A Sommelier
• 12 Delicious Wines To Try This Year — All From A Country That May Surprise You
• 11 Best Wines To Buy At Trader Joe’s According To A Sommelier

The railway La Petite Ceinture, or Little Belt, was the brainchild of Napoleon III and Baron Haussmann, who together razed much of France’s capital to the ground creating what is now quintessentially Paris with its grand boulevards, butter-hued buildings, trees, and open spaces.

The idea was not only to have a means of carrying goods all around Paris without having to cross the busy city, but also to connect the outlying suburbs with central Paris’ grand railway stations.

In December 1851, upon Napoleon III taking office, the first section of this intramural rail track circling Paris was granted. At its peak, in its 1.5-hour-long circumnavigation of the city, the Petite Ceinture carried up to 90,000 passengers a day in six scheduled trains per hour, and tonnes of goods around and into Paris.

Alas, it was the metro, the first station of which was opened in 1900, that gave the Petite Ceinture the kiss of death. Soon most abandoned stretches started being reclaimed by nature, while a few cargo lines still continued on into the 1980s before being given up on.

Over the last few decades though, the old lines have been slowly rediscovered as vital green spaces, and many stretches are open to the public as walkways, making for a great addition to the more unusual sights in Paris. Of the originally 29 stations 17 remain, and a handful have been reimagined as cafes, restaurants, and music spaces.

When I lived in Paris, I walked the entire perimeter, roughly 20 miles, of the Petite Ceinture, discovering this old railway and stopping along the way at the various restaurants. Here are my favorites, as usual, in no particular order.

1. La REcyclerie

As you step out of the metro at Porte de Clignancourt, you look straight up at the gigantic Red Heart, an installation by Portuguese artist Joana Vasconcelos, a sparkling reminder of the cliché of eternal romance in Paris. On your left, you will see what was clearly a former railway station, very unromantically right next to a KFC.

La REcyclerie is one of the earliest reinventions of former Petite Ceinture stations, made, as the name suggests, mostly recycled bits and pieces. Inside, your eye is drawn not only to the enormous windows looking out across the railway tracks, but also to the right, where empty window and door frames make for superb wall decorations.

The seating is a mix of tables and chairs, as is the crockery, as recycled things tend to be. If the weather is good, head outside and try and get a seat by the limited outdoor spaces, which hem the tracks and extend into the restaurant’s own veggie plot complete with beehives further down.

This is a place to eat and drink, with coffee, beer and wine, sandwiches, cakes and plates of risotto, pasta, and a lot of vegetarian meals. Not fine dining, but great fun and a very quirky setting, and perfect for lunch or afternoon drinks outside.

Pro Tip: Cross the main junction and keep walking and you’ll get to the famous Puces de Saint Ouen flea markets.

2. ANDIA

Formerly the La Gare restaurant whose name is still emblazoned on the old building, this space is now occupied by the Latin American ANDIA. And it has a surprise in store. The pretty little station house simply does not look big enough for a restaurant, but step inside, and you head down to what formerly were the tracks and platforms, now making for a huge dining space under the high roof decorated with great light fittings. The venue is often used for large private bashes such as weddings because the space is perfect for larger groups. That said, you can find a cozy corner for your meal without problems.

The menu spans Latin America, from tacos and ceviche to fish, beef, and staples such as burgers — with guacamole, of course. A must-try, in my book, is the tuna & truffle ceviche, so good! Or, you could just sit by the window of the bar upstairs with a cocktail, and some snacks, popping out on the hour every hour, to catch the Eiffel Tower doing its twinkling thing just down the road, and easily seen from the entrance.

Pro Tip: If you happen to have lunch here, afterward, you can walk along a stretch of the Petite Ceinture starting right behind the restaurant (although the entrance is roughly 150 yards further on), through an enchanted forest, all the way to the next station, which has been turned into the Brasserie Auteuil, see next.

3. Auteuil Brasserie

This sprawling former railway station is a fabulous place to meet friends, sit outside in summer, dance the night away on the roof terrace, or enjoy the cozy interior, the mostly Italian food, and the extensive cocktail menu. Auteuil Brasserie is not a typical brasserie, being a jack-of-all-trades, from a great terrace in the summer looking out across the bustling square in the 16^th arrondissement, to its modern restaurant inside, with some lovely interior design notes, such as the leopard wallpaper in the bathrooms, and a hopping roof terrace in all seasons.

In winter, in addition to all the above, it turns itself into a ski chalet complete with snow, polar bear, and ski décor. In summer, try the burrata, between seasons you cannot beat the mushroom pasta with truffle, or the Auteuil pizza, and in winter opt for all the above, just with a glass of vin chaud in attendance.

Pro Tip: From here you have easy access to the Bois de Boulogne, the vast forest with several lakes and ponds, and great walkways. Cross the main boulevard and head past the horse racecourse via the Route d’Auteuil aux lacs to Lac Superior and Lac Inferieur, one of my favorite European lakes; by the way, the names imply upper and lower lakes, not better and less so.

4. Poincon

This gorgeous re-invention is one of the latest and one of the prettiest. And one of the furthest away from the center, but I will give you a few good reasons to head down to this spot. In the south of Paris, around Porte d’Orleans, is the station which is now home to Poincon, another multi-faceted venue.

The restaurant is in the open space that used to be the entrance to the station, complete with a mezzanine floor, and is lit through the enormous, floor-to-ceiling rounded windows. You come here for lunch (Wednesdays to Saturdays only), with a small set menu at a great price, or dinner, which takes the shape of sharing platters, little snacks, and bites to be nibbled with some drinks. But what you really come for is the Sunday Jazz Brunch. For 35 euros, you get a selection of breakfast plates, juices, hot drinks, and a lot of live music.

The atmosphere is great, and the setting is even better. There is a little history of the building and before and after pictures at the entrance, showing you just how well they have done to make this venue so nice after some 74 years of being abandoned.

Pro Tip: Poincon lies between Porte de Vanves, with its great weekend flea market along and around Avenue Marc Sangnier, a wonderful market with all sorts of treasures, and Parc Montsouris, one of my favorite parks in Paris. You can easily walk between the three venues, or hop onto the tram for a couple of stops. Did you even know that there are trams in Paris? And they pretty much follow in parallel to the Petite Ceinture as a more modern version. Normal metro tickets work with the trams.

5. Le Hasard Ludique

In the north of Paris, near the metro stop of Porte de Saint-Ouen, one stop anti-clockwise from La REcyclerie’s Petite Ceinture station, lies Le Hasard Ludique, a very different concept from Poincon, if also a brunch hotspot. A great place to grab some good food, just not necessarily in a fine dining setting. Instead, this mix of café, restaurant, and music venue, offers a hip, young vibe and is absolutely bursting at the weekend for Le Brunch and in the evening for light meals, drinks, and some live music.

Set in one of the smallest station buildings of the lot, the venue also uses the stairs down to the platforms, which offer additional space. And it is in this space that in December, a little Christmas market takes place. On the platforms of the former Petite Ceinture, making for quite a unique setting. The market is more alternative than traditional, more local arts and crafts than mass-produced, but, if you find yourself nearby around Christmas time, it’s worth stopping at.

Pro Tip: A brief walk away lies the romantic, and utterly hidden away Cité des Fleurs, a must-visit spot for a dreamy stroll while looking at some wonderful Parisian real estate that even comes complete with gardens. Right there in Paris!

Related Reading:

• 7 Reasons To Visit The World’s Oldest Department Store In One Of Europe’s Most Fashionable Cities
• 7 Unique Walking Tours Not To Miss In Paris
• 8 Fascinating Places To Visit In Paris For WWII History Buffs

Ask any Italian when he or she leaves a tip and you’ll inevitably receive the same answer: “Quasi mai” (“almost never”). As a rule, Italy is similar to other European countries: You generally aren’t expected to leave a tip unless you’ve received a special service. In fact, it is actually illegal to ask for a tip in Italy.

One of my American friends who has lived in Italy since 1998 lamented that Americans tend to tip too much. “They make it so the Italians don’t want to serve anyone but Americans.” Two of my Italian friends also complained, saying, “The problem is when employers think their employees are getting tipped, they lower their salary.”

These days, I tend to leave a little something wherever I go, considering that the COVID lockdowns forced 45,000 bars and restaurants to permanently shut down, and now many places are struggling with excessively high energy costs. 

Here are a few rules of thumb to consider when tipping in Italy.

1. Tip Only In Cash

Unlike in the United States, you cannot add a tip to your bill when paying with a credit or bank card. You need to be ready to leave any tip in cash. You can leave your tip at the cash register when you are paying the bill, on the restaurant table under your glass or coffee cup, or inside the bill holder. It is always best not to leave any money too visible and not to leave the full amount for the meal on the table, especially at a busy or outdoor restaurant.

2. Restaurant Bill Charges

Restaurants are where most Italians leave a nominal tip, especially when dining in large numbers. Typically, they round up the bill to the nearest €10. For example, if the bill comes to €77, you could leave €80. This nominal tip (by American standards) is because the tip is usually included in the bill, along with a few other charges that you may not be familiar with.

Coperto (Cover Charge)

The coperto should be clearly stated on the menu and ranges from €1–€3 per person. Take note that the coperto is not a tip, instead it “covers” the restaurant’s cost for anything you see on the table, like the tablecloth, napkins, plates, utensils, salt, and olive oil. However, in Rome and many regions such as Lombardy, this fee has been outlawed, along with the pane fee below.

Pane (Bread)

If you do not see a service charge for a coperto, you are likely to see one for pane, which is the service charge for bread. This will usually be €1–€2. Even if you don’t eat bread or are allergic to gluten and simply can’t eat it, do not try to refuse this fee as it is considered rude to do so.

Servizio (Service Charge)

The servizio charge on your bill usually runs 15–20 percent and it’s where the tip fee is included. If the servizio is included, you’re already tipping, so there is no need to leave any extra money, unless you have received special attention. Restaurants are obliged to indicate the servizio cost on the menu.

3. How Much To Tip In A Restaurant

If you’ve had a delicious and enjoyable meal with an attentive and friendly waiter, then by all means, leave a small tip. As I said earlier, Italians typically round up the final bill to the nearest €10. If the service was below par and the meal was just okay, then don’t feel obliged to leave any tip. It’s really up to you and your own personal experience.

Pro Tip: Beware! Do not push money into a waiter’s hand or slip money into a waitress’s pocket! These acts are considered embarrassingly rude! Just leave the cash on the table (under a glass or coffee cup, or in the bill holder). Or you can leave the cash tip at the register when paying the final bill.

4. How Much To Tip At A Bar

Tipping at a bar depends on if you’re standing or sitting. If you have your drink while standing at the bar, you are not charged a service fee. But if you sit down and drink something, then you are, and the tip is automatically included. The rules for leaving a tip are the same as you would at a restaurant… rounding up to the nearest €1 for great service.

Many bars and cafés have tip jars near the register where you can leave €0.10–€0.50. These tips are shared amongst all the workers. I asked my local barista how much he typically earns a day in tips. He said, after splitting the coins in the tip jar with his coworkers, he was lucky to bring home €1.

A Jar For Caffè Sospeso

You might also see a jar at the bar marked “caffè sospeso,” which means “suspended coffee.” When you order a caffè sospeso, you buy two coffees but only receive one. The other is for a person who might come into the bar and need a free coffee. This tradition started in Naples in the early 1910s. Sometimes you can leave a “tip” here as well.

5. How Much To Tip Your Taxi Driver

While leaving a small tip at a restaurant or bar is not that unusual in Italy, tipping your taxi driver isn’t so common. While you aren’t expected to tip your driver, it’s always a good idea to agree with the driver on the cost before beginning your journey. If the driver helps you with your bag(s), you should consider giving a tip of €1 per bag.

If you want to pay for your ride with a credit card, be sure to ask the cab driver if they accept credit. Some do, some don’t, and some will tell you they don’t and then pull their credit card machine out of their glove compartment if you tell them you don’t have cash.

Pro Tip: Make sure you look for the taxi stand when you need a ride. Taxi drivers aren’t supposed to pick you up if you hail them down, and you will likely pay more if you hail a cab versus grabbing one at the taxi stand. 

Also note that while Uber does operate in bigger cities like Rome and Milan, it is not available everywhere. Only Uber Black is available, which means higher prices than a normal taxi. Lyft does not operate in Italy.

6. Tipping At Your Hotel

Like everywhere else in Italy, tipping your hotel concierge is appreciated, but not required. Tips are absolutely not expected at rented apartments and guesthouses, although tips are appreciated at bed and breakfasts. Here are some general tips for tipping at a hotel in Italy:

• Tip a porter who carries your luggage €1 per bag.
• Tip the concierge or bed and breakfast owner when they have assisted you during your stay. For example, they might book tickets for you or recommend restaurants or a tour guide. Also leave a tip if you happen to leave your bags at the hotel after checking out of your room. Tip between €5 and €10, depending on the assistance provided.
• Tip the cleaning staff €2 per day as a sign of appreciation. For longer stays, you might want to leave the tip more regularly rather than the total amount at the end of your stay.

While staying at a major hotel near the Rome airport, my American friends gave their hotel waiter a €5 tip after he left them abundant snacks alongside their aperitivo. A year later, they were back at the same hotel enjoying the afternoon happy hour when the white wine ran out. When they asked for a glass, the same waiter ran back into the kitchen and returned with a whole bottle of wine and extra food. “Do you remember me?” he asked. “I remember you!” Afterwards, my friends couldn’t resist leaving an even more generous tip of €10.

7. How Much To Tip Your Hairdresser, Barber, Or Masseuse

Tipping your hairdresser, barber, or masseuse is similar to tipping your restaurant waiter: It’s not obligatory. The service fee is included in the bill, but if your experience is special, you can leave €2–€5, depending on the overall cost. If tips are encouraged, there is usually a tip jar near the register.

8. How Much To Tip Your Tour Guide

Like waiters, tour guides aren’t expecting you to tip, but if you’ve really enjoyed the tour, then consider giving the guide €5 for a half-day tour and €10 for a full-day tour. Keep in mind that guides working for a company are frequently paid only a minimal hourly wage; while a licensed, independent guide receives your full tour fee.

You might also like to offer a tip of €5–€10 to volunteer guides who offer free tours.

However, keep in mind that, like at a restaurant, the tip you leave depends on your satisfaction with the experience and the service you received. For instance, if the guide shows you around a city all day, while also telling you the best places to eat, definitely consider offering a tip.

Bonus: Sometimes Tipping In Italy Works Backwards!

This might seem strange to Americans, but sometimes the person offering the service tips the customer! I have often had my restaurant bill rounded down to the nearest €10 by the owner, especially after exchanging a little chat about the area or business. These few euros are a way of building goodwill between the owner and customer. Other times, my husband and I have been offered a free coffee or liquor. It’s amazing how little it takes to make someone happy!

Italians have a talent for presentation and service, helping you feel at home and, at the same time, like a queen or king. While tipping rules are not so clearly defined, they allow for the human touch wherever you go. It’s also a great opportunity to connect with the locals in a positive way.

If you’re thinking about a trip to Italy, check out these articles:

• 10 Incredible Hidden Gems Not To Miss In Italy
• 17 Adorable Towns To Visit In Italy In 2023
• 7 Best Experiences In Italy, According To A Third-Generation Tour Operator

If you’re looking for an affordable grocery store wine-shopping experience, Aldi is the perfect choice. As one of the largest retail chains in America, they offer a selection of wines to fulfill your palate — regardless if you prefer sweet, sparkling, white, red, or unique wines!

Aldi’s prices are a bargain compared to other stores, as they offer their own private-label brands, like Costco. Not only do these wines have a low price tag, but they are also unique wines that are exclusively sold at Aldi.

To be honest, Aldi wines are not of the highest quality, and they might not have a wide range of options. Nonetheless, their selection is definitely one of the most budget-friendly! And when you’re in a rush and require grocery shopping, but also need to get some wine for cooking or merely enjoying your night, the supermarket is the perfect spot.

Editor’s Note: While these wines are not available for purchase online through ALDI, we encourage you to look for them at your local store. Alternatively, they can be ordered for delivery on Instacart or Drizly.

1. Bear Bros. Cabernet Sauvignon

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This cabernet sauvignon from California is a good red wine for any occasion. It sells for about $10 or less and features aromas of dark berries, currants, and hints of chocolate.

On the palate you will find flavors of blackberries, black plums, licorice, vanilla, and a hint of earthiness. It’s a medium- to full-bodied wine with medium tannins and a well-balanced acidity.

Therefore, pair it with grilled steak, lamb chops, or a burger for an amazing meal. It also pairs well with hard cheeses like cheddar and manchego.

2. The Exquisite Collection Malbec

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From the famous Mendoza region in Argentina, this malbec is a great pick for those who love a medium-bodied, fruit-forward red wine. Priced at under $10, this is an amazing deal; you won’t find many options this low in price coming out of the Mendoza wine region!

This wine offers fragrant aromas of dark fruits, spice, and mocha on the nose. And on the palate you will find flavors of black cherries, plums, raspberries, leather, tobacco, and finishes of a black pepper spice.

And for that reason, it is ideal to pair with red meats, barbeque, and mild cheeses like Gruyere.

3. Peaks & Tides Cabernet Sauvignon

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A Sonoma-grown cabernet sauvignon that sells for about $12 is typically hard to find. And the fact that it’s an easy drinking wine with aromas and flavors of dark fruits, oak, and vanilla makes it very much a good deal!

On the nose you will find juicy aromas of blackberry, plum, and black cherry. Then as the wine enters your mouth, you will encounter a velvety texture full of dark fruits and notes of spice, caramel, and sweet vanilla balanced by its soft tannins and medium acidity.

It’s perfect to pair with roasted meats like roast beef, roasted chicken, or pork roast.

4. 30 Miles Cabernet Sauvignon

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Crafted from the renowned Napa Valley in California, this cabernet sauvignon exhibits a taste that showcases the wine region.

This medium- to full-bodied red wine has a bouquet of dark fruit aromas, such as cassis, blackberry, and dark cherry. On the palate you’ll discover black plum flavors with oak, vanilla, and earthy hints of dark chocolate. It’s a balanced wine with soft tannins and vibrant acidity.

This robust red wine pairs wonderfully with steak, lamb, and other grilled meats.

5. Quarter-Cut Bourbon Barrel Cabernet Sauvignon

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This rich, smooth, and pleasant California cabernet sauvignon has been aged in bourbon barrels used for American whiskey to accentuate its incredible flavors.

On the nose you’ll get aromas of dark berries, tobacco, and oak with hints of vanilla and toast. The flavors of this wine are rich and smooth with notes of blackberries, cherries, dried herbs, and baking spices.

And if you’re looking for a wine to perfectly accompany red meats like succulent steak or tender lamb chops, look no further.

6. Elementalist Pinot Grigio

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This light and easy drinking California pinot grigio is the ideal accompaniment to your springtime picnics, at a price that won’t break the bank (under $9).

It’s an enjoyable white wine that has a pale yellow hue with green reflections and aromas of ripe lemon, peach, pear, and honeydew melon. And on the palate it’s bright and fresh with a crisp acidity along with flavors of melon, citrus, and peach.

This wine will be the perfect match if you are making light dishes for dinner like pasta primavera or grilled white fish.

8. William Wright Chardonnay

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If you are looking for an affordable, oak-aged, buttery, California chardonnay, this may be your best bet at Aldi! This wine is a bargain at a price range of $8–$10, so don’t pass up the opportunity to give it a try!

It’s a full-bodied wine that exhibits intense aromas of pineapple, pear, peach, and just a touch of vanilla. And on the creamy, smooth palate you’ll find flavors of tropical fruits along with notes of oak and caramel.

It’s an excellent wine for pairing with creamy dishes such as chicken alfredo, carbonara, or risotto.

10. Landshut Riesling

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It’s one of my personal favorites on this list for a few reasons. Because it’s made with grapes in Germany, it has a vibrant acidity and delicate sweetness that make it ideal for food pairing (not overly sweet or dry), and its price point is also very affordable at around $6–$8.

On the nose you’ll get aromas of fresh citrus, minerals, and hints of white flowers. And on the palate it’s juicy with ripe flavors like green apple, lime, apricot, peach, and honey.

It’s a perfect wine to enjoy with any spicy foods you will find in Asian cuisine; the sweetness in the wine helps tame the heat in the spicy dishes.

11. Mimosa

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It’s the most popular wine cocktail for your weekend brunch at home! If you’re looking for a ready-to-drink mimosa, Aldi’s mimosa wine is the perfect choice! Under their specialty wines section, this delicious blend of fresh squeezed orange juice and dry premium white wine will give your morning brunch that extra special touch.

It’s the best way to enjoy a hassle-free mimosa without having to do any mixing or juicing yourself!

Pro Tips

• For the best deals on wine, be sure to regularly peruse Aldi’s weekly ad section online. All you need is your zip code and their website will do a local search according to where you live.
• Aldi is in 39 states and there are over 2,200 Aldi stores, but not all of them sell alcohol. It is imperative to bear in mind that each state has different laws regarding the sale of alcoholic beverages, and times and days when they are available may differ. Make sure to check your store for details.
• Head over to Aldi on a Wednesday and get the first pick at Aldi Finds. Aldi Finds are limited-time specialty products that can sell out fast!

To continue wine shopping, check out:

• The 11 Best Wines To Buy At Costco According To A Sommelier
• 11 Best Wines To Buy At Trader Joe’s According To A Sommelier

Visiting the Mediterranean is a bucket list adventure. Time spent on sun-drenched beaches next to sparkling blue water will always be remembered. In addition, architecture, landscape, history, and cultural events annually bring millions to the Mediterranean Sea. But one thing no one forgets is the food — the Mediterranean diet.

I want to share (in no particular order) some exceptional restaurants serving Mediterranean cuisine on a tiny island many folks have never heard of: Gozo, in the Republic of Malta. Each locally-owned eatery prepares its dishes from ingredients grown and produced within a few miles. Things like fresh fish, lamb, rabbit, potatoes, olives, lemons, oranges, dairy from goats, and a wide variety of fruit and veg are included in recipes handed down from generation to generation utilizing Gozo’s bounty.

1. Country Terrace

With the most spectacular view from any restaurant on Gozo, Country Terrace has an exceptional atmosphere, delightful food, and tasty libations. It’s located in Ghajnsielem, overlooking Mgarr Harbor and the islands of Malta and Camino. You can eat indoors or on the stunning tiered terrace.

Country Terrace is a beautiful combination of Maltese and Italian cuisine. Lunch and dinner are served from à la carte or entrée menus. Entrees of fresh fish, pork, lamb, chicken, beef, and game are large and come with several side dishes, including potatoes two ways (common with entrees in Malta) and fresh garden vegetables. The full-service bar has a well-curated selection of local and international spirits, beer, and wine.

What To Order At Country Terrace

Start with the mushrooms gratin. I could eat a bucket of these pan-seared mushrooms in a cream sauce. Next, try the day’s fish caught that morning and prepared with a white wine sauce or grilled. The Beef Wellington is a special treat if you are a beef lover. Finally, leave room for one of the delicate desserts made in-house daily.

2. Eat & Live Italy

With Sicily only 60 miles away, the Italian influence is strong in Maltese cuisine. Eat & Live Italy offers house-made pasta, fresh fish, pizza, traditional Maltese cheese salad, beef steaks, and several burgers.

Located in Victoria’s St. George Square, all seating is outdoors under a canopy. Everything is made to order and served with bread and sides such as potatoes and veggies. There is a lovely wine list with reasonably priced Maltese and Italian wines. We took our time with a bottle of prosecco. Please don’t pass on the desserts; they are unforgettable.

The service is efficient and very friendly. When Kevin and I had lunch there one day, our server moved our table twice as a very ferocious thunderstorm drove the rain under the canopy. All the while, he smiled and laughed and replaced our bread when it got a bit wet.

What To Order At Eat And Live Italy

Pasta with Bolognese is the best I’ve had anywhere, including Italy. Combined with a Maltese cheese salad (like a charcuterie board), it is more than enough to share.

3. Giuseppe Cafe And Bistro

Giuseppe is a neighborhood eatery in Ghajnsielm’s village square. It’s a popular meeting place for locals and ex-pats. Casual, welcoming, and a friend to your budget, there is inside and outdoor seating.

Giuseppe’s serves Maltese and Italian entrees, pizza, and delectable sandwiches. The dessert case is filled with”can’t resist” pastries. A full-service bar offers spirits, beer, and wine. This is a great place to pick up a sandwich, a bag of crisps, and a bottle of local wine for a picnic on the beach.

What To Order At Giuseppe Cafe And Bistro

I love the lasagna, and so do others. Be sure to come in for dinner early if you want to try it. It sells out quickly.

4. Jon’s Coffee And Snack Corner

Jon’s is a kiosk in Mgarr Harbor next to the Gozo Channel Ferry Terminal. It’s a popular place for local fishermen and ferry passengers. As with all kiosks, John’s specializes in local fare.

Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served. I think John’s ricotta-filled pastizzi are the best on the island. This local pastry also comes filled with peas. There are sandwiches, burgers, pasta, and salads. Everything is made in the open kitchen every day. Grab a Kinnie (a local soft drink made from oranges and spices), a Cisk beer (brewed in Malta since 1929), or a local wine from the cooler and order at the counter. Then find a seat inside or out. Your order will be delivered to your table.

What To Order At Jon’s Coffee And Snack Corner

My favorite is the crispy chicken wrap. The chicken is breaded and fried, giving it a crunchy outside and a tender, juicy inside. Lettuce and tomatoes are added, and the whole thing is wrapped and then grilled in the panini press. Kevin is crazy about the avocado toast — while not traditional Maltese, it is delicious and served on crunchy Maltese bread.

5. one80 Kitchen At Mgarr Yacht Marina

Do you love boats? Then one80 Kitchen is your place for lunch or dinner. It’s the only restaurant that sits at water level in the yacht marina in Mgarr Harbor. Ceiling-to-floor windows surround you and give the feeling of alfresco dining no matter the weather.

Everything on the one80 menu is caught, grown, and produced locally. Your meal begins with house-baked Maltese bread served with a round of fresh goat cheese and a canister of locally grown and pressed EVOO. This crunchy crust and soft, tender inside bread could be a meal for me.

All dishes come in small, medium, and large sizes. Choose from the freshest fish, shellfish, chicken, meat, game, and plant-based dishes. If you have a group of six or more, try the Sharing Feast. It’s a selection of bread, fish, beef, sausages, and pastries.

What To Order At one80 Kitchen

The grilled octopus is terrific. It’s a popular local treat and available year-round. The Crudi On Ice is sublime. It’s a selection of oysters, king prawns, sashimi, fresh fish crudo, tartare, and ceviche. Perfect with a bottle of prosecco.

6. Roza

Step inside Roza and leave behind bustling St. George Square. The simple interior is quiet, comfortable, and a relaxing spot for a long lazy lunch or an unhurried dinner.

Roza is a new eatery on St. George Square in Victoria. Open just over 30 days (at this writing), Raza is quickly making regular fans for their traditional Mediterranean dishes and modern atmosphere.

The menu has seasonal offerings of locally sourced ingredients. Rabbit, lamb, beef, chicken, and fish can be enjoyed in starters, soups, salads, and entrees. Shared Maltese platters and cheese boards are a perfect way to taste Gozo. The soup of the day is always delicious. I love the creamed veggie.

What To Order At Roza

Bruschetta, bruschetta, bruschetta! Kevin and I are searching for the best bruschetta available on Gozo. Bruschetta is one of our favorite Maltese dishes. Roza’s is at the top of the list. Four pieces are served, two in the traditional style with tomatoes, olives, onions, Baretta cheese, and basil. Two pieces are a perfect companion with a smooth mixture of cream cheese, cucumbers, and herbs.

7. Il Kantra Lido Bar & Restaurant

Kantra Lido is as Mediterranean as it gets. This place is fantastic! It may be hard to pay attention to the menu — the spectacular view of Kantra Cove, Malta, Camino, and the blue Med is mesmerizing. Small boats cruise in and out of the cove, bringing swimmers and snorkelers. Birds nesting in the cliffs put on a continual show as they feed the nestlings. Divers boldly free-fall from the cliffs — a breathtaking sight — and sunbathers relax on lounges dotted around terraces leading to the cove.

Covered and open-air seating is available. Before taking a seat, look at the day’s catch displayed on ice as you enter the restaurant. Kantra serves seafood caught that day, beef, chicken, and vegetarian dishes. A full-service bar has an international selection of spirits, wine, and beer.

What To Order At Kantra Lido

Choose a fish from the day’s catch and have it grilled. If there are king prawns or oysters offered, add a couple. As with many Maltese restaurants, the desserts are heavenly, especially the chocolate/coffee mousse.

8. Tal-Furnar Bar And Restaurant

Located in Xaghra, Tal-Furnar is one of my most highly recommended eateries in Gozo.

I urge you to book one of their experiences, such as traditional Gozation bread making or Ftira (sort of like a pizza, only better). Anna and John — the chefs and owners — are excellent and fun teachers. They note that their 100-year-old wood-burning pizza oven has been in their family for four generations. They also “believe in the farm-to-table concept,” producing as much food themselves as possible.

You’ll be given all you need and hands-on guidance to make your time-honored Gozation specialty. After you’ve finished your creation, you’ll watch John put it into the wood-burning oven. While it bakes, you will snack on a Tal-Furnar platter of their special sundried tomato dip, olives, goat cheese, sausages, and more seasonal delights. These experiences must be booked in advance. It is a fantastic activity for a group, and children are welcome.

What To Order At Tal-Furnar

Suckling pig cooked in the wood-fired oven is a treat, unlike anything you will eat anywhere. It is crunchy on the outside and juicy and tender on the inside.

9. Tamun

Tamun is often the place Kevin and I stop for a meal when arriving in Gozo on the ferry. The location in Mgarr Harbor is just a few steps from the ferry/bus terminal. One of Gozo’s most revered chefs, Paul Buttigieg, creates dishes from the sea and land. The menu is seasonally based and influenced by other Mediterranean cultures.

Shellfish is a particular specialty. The oysters are sweet and succulent. They are served with ponzu & yuzu gel cucumber, Hendrick’s Gin & basil, and nori & miso au gratin dipping sauces. Another choice for a starter is the sharing menu offered with 7, 9, or 12 plates. Choose from salads, ceviche, foie gras, octopus, asparagus, lobster, calamari, pork belly, and more.

Soups, salads, and fish starters set the stage for your main course of lamb, pork, beef, or more fish.

What To Order At Tamun

The seafood risotto is cooked to perfection. Creamy rice is joined with seasonal fish, shellfish, and peas.

10. Victoria Central

Most folks would call Victoria Central a coffee shop, but it is so much more. It’s a coffee roastery, tea shop, café, and meeting place for locals and visitors.

Victoria Central is located at the foot of Victoria’s Cittadella and across the street from Independence Square. Seating is available inside or across the street in the square. I recommend the square if you are a people watcher.

The café serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner in addition to coffee drinks and cups or pots of tea. The selection of soups, sandwiches, and pizzas is very popular. Breakfast selections include sandwiches, French toast, and vegan avocado toast.

What To Order At Victoria Central

Order Shakshuka, a North African/Middle Eastern breakfast dish made from baked tomatoes, onions, peppers, and earthy spices like cumin, paprika, and chili powder. I love this dish, and Victoria Central makes a lovely version.

Why Eat In Gozo?

Gozo is the little sister of Malta in the center of the Mediterranean. It’s a place that will take you back in time, with its rural culture and slow pace. Farming is king in Gozo. Most farmland is protected from development, reducing the need to import food to the growing Maltese population.

Gozitan food will immerse you in the culture and, best of all, the Mediterranean diet, the best reason to visit.

Approximately 40 minutes south of Seattle, Tacoma offers similarly spectacular bay and mountain views. But at about half the size of Washington’s largest city, it’s less frenetic and more affordable than Seattle. And when it comes to the food scene, Tacoma still has plenty of fresh fish and seafood options — as you’d expect in the greater Seattle metro. These are some of my favorite Tacoma restaurants.

1. Corina Bakery

For a delicious, quick breakfast, start your morning in Tacoma at Corina Bakery, where you’ll find everything from buttery croissants to cream cheese cinnamon rolls to fluffy quiche. As a scratch kitchen, Corina Bakery offers a wide selection of gluten-free, vegan, and soy-free goodies for folks visiting Tacoma with a food allergy or dietary restriction, like me.

What To Order At Corina Bakery

Pack your morning with protein by ordering a breakfast sandwich with eggs and meat built on a flaky croissant or enjoy a thick slice of quiche.

2. Olive Branch Cafe & Tea Room

In a region obsessed with coffee, Olive Branch Cafe & Tea Room shines a spotlight on tea. Enjoy a cup of freshly brewed black, herbal, green, or rooibos loose-leaf tea with freshly-baked scones (served with clotted cream, strawberry jam, and lemon curd), a crispy salad, or a filling sandwich.

What To Order At Olive Branch Cafe & Tea Room

Visiting a tea room and not eating a scone is like going to Tacoma and not seeing a piece of Chihuly glass art. If you want something more, I recommend the finger-sized cucumber sandwiches served on sourdough bread, the mild curry tuna sandwich served on rye, or the almond curried chicken sandwich served on a croissant — all of which are served with a side green salad or potato salad.

3. Over The Moon Cafe

In a rustic, red brick building in the heart of historic downtown Tacoma, Over the Moon Cafe is an intimate, 36-seat bistro that’s perfect for a romantic dinner. Inspired by seasonal ingredients, the menu at this family-run eatery changes regularly, but you’ll still find Pacific Northwest staples like wild-caught salmon offered nearly year-round.

What To Order At Over The Moon Cafe

Start with a moon-inspired signature cocktail, like an Old Fashioned Cresent Moon with Four Roses bourbon, aromatic bitters, Gran Classico, and orange liqueur. Then, embrace your beautiful coastal location by digging into seafood and fish dishes. Try a cup or bowl of the crab bisque that includes tomato and tarragon. Enjoy a wild Pacific salmon filet served with red mashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables. And be sure to save room for dessert, whether it’s a scoop of house-made bourbon vanilla ice cream or something more decadent, like a slice of turtle pie.

4. Copper & Salt Northwest Kitchen

An upscale Italian restaurant located in the scenic Pacific Northwest, Copper & Salt offers handcrafted cocktails and locally-sourced farm-to-table dishes with breathtaking views of Commencement Bay and the Olympic and Cascade Mountains. Located in the Silver Cloud Hotel Tacoma at Point Ruston Waterfront, Copper & Salt is a fine-dining experience and one of the best restaurants for brunch on the weekends.

What To Order At Copper & Salt

Let’s start with brunch: In addition to classic dishes like biscuits and gravy served with sunny-side-up eggs, and eggs Benedict smothered in rich Hollandaise sauce, you’ll find sweeter options like French toast made with brioche bread and blueberry ricotta pancakes topped with maple mascarpone. And if you’re a late riser who loves pancakes, you’ll be delighted to see this last option on the weekday lunch menu.

If visiting Copper & Salt for dinner, start with a handcrafted cocktail, like the Every Day I’m Hucklin’ with grappa moscato, St. George spiced pear liqueur, mint syrup, and huckleberry shrub. Then opt for a filling handmade pasta dish, like the pappardelle with short rib and king trumpet mushrooms, or an entrée, like the fried duck leg in an orange glaze with braised lentils. And, as expected from a restaurant with waterfront views, the fish dishes are absolutely amazing, from the lightly battered pan-fried oysters served with green goddess sauce to the catch of the day.

5. Duke’s Chowder House

Get your fill of sustainably-sourced, fresh-made fish with beautiful views of Puget sound at Duke’s Chowder House, one of my favorite waterfront restaurants in Tacoma. If you’re visiting Duke’s during one of their two daily happy hours (from 3–6 p.m. and again from 9 p.m. until close), look for some great deals on appeteasers, shared plates, tiny bites, and Duketails. They also offer half-priced bottles of wine every Monday.

What To Order At Duke’s Chowder House

Obviously, you’ll want to order some chowder. Duke’s award-winning version is a creamy, New England-style dish topped with bacon. But there are several other options, including a cioppino-style (tomato base) seafood chowder, a chicken corn chowder, and a lobster Pernod chowder that absolutely rocked my world. Can’t choose? (I know, it’s hard.) Try several with a chowder sampler!

When you’re ready to move on from chowder, you’ll be delighted to see a nice offering of fish and seafood-filled dishes that range from classic to truly unique. Try the Dungeness crab “un”cake, Dungeness crab deviled eggs, or Blue North Pacific cod fish and chips.

Personally, I’m all about salmon when I’m in the Pacific Northwest. I highly recommend:

• Salmon sliders: served on rosemary bread with pesto and sliced tomato 
• Blackened salmon salad: served in a bed of organic field greens with Oregon blueberries, Point Reyes bleu cheese crumbles, and candied pecans
• Stuffed salmon: fresh Dungeness crab, wild Mexican prawns, and cheese in a wild salmon filet.

6. WildFin American Grill

Another one of Tacoma’s great seafood restaurants is WildFin American Grill. Located at Point Ruston on the Tacoma waterfront, they serve up fresh fish, delicious seafood, and regionally-sourced meats, with views of Point Defiance, Vashon Island, Commencement Bay, and Mount Rainier. WildFin also offers two daily happy hours with great deals on draft beers, wine, and starters. Try the battered fish and chips served with housemade tartar sauce and apple cabbage slaw, or the street tacos stuffed with everything from Cajun-seared fish to smoky chipotle wagyu beef.

What To Order At WildFin American Grill

Start with a refreshing gin cocktail, like the rosemary lime cooler with Uncle Val’s botanical gin, cranberry juice, simple syrup, and fresh lime. Then opt for a fresh fish or seafood dish. In addition to the fish and chips mentioned above, try the parmesan-crusted Dover sole served with organic farro risotto, fried capers, and butter sauce. Or go for the Northwest seafood fettuccine alfredo that tosses chunks of wild-caught salmon, Alaskan white fish, and prawns with fresh spinach, mushrooms, and roasted red peppers in a parmesan cream sauce.

7. Thai Pepper

If you want a break from seafood (or at least want your next bite of it to go beyond standard American cuisine), then I recommend Thai Pepper on Pacific Avenue. This family-owned and -operated eatery serves up some of the best Thai classics — from banh mi to pad thai — in Washington State.

What To Order At Thai Pepper

While everything I’ve tried is delicious, I especially recommend the chef’s special dishes. If you want a break from seafood, then try the lemongrass chicken in a spiced curry and creamy coconut milk sauce served on a bed of green cabbage. And if you haven’t had your fill of seafood, order the pad kra tiam, a stir-fried dish with prawns, scallops, and squid served over broccoli and carrots. 

Pro Tip: For more delicious Asian-inspired dishes in Tacoma, try Pho King for Vietnamese food or the Indo Asian Street Eatery for an assortment of Southeast Asian dishes including an amazing Korean barbecue kimchi bowl.

8. Harbor Lights

Located on scenic Ruston Way overlooking Commencement Bay, Harbor Lights is another fantastic seafood restaurant in Tacoma with an amazing view. If you enjoy eating dinner early, don’t miss the sunset dinner special on weekdays from 3–5:30 p.m. Choose a starter, entrée, and dessert from a special three-course early bird special menu for just $30.

What To Order At Harbor Lights

Start with the crispy calamari served with lemon aioli, or a cup of clam chowder. For a pub-style entrée, try the fish and chips with a crispy panko exterior and a flaky white Alaskan cod interior. Or enjoy creamy macaroni and cheese with a twist that includes Dungeness crab and shrimp topped with golden panko crumbs.

9. Ice Cream Social

Ice cream is another delicious way to satisfy a sweet tooth. And with three locations in the Tacoma area, Ice Cream Social makes it easy to enjoy a scoop (or two) of locally-made ice cream. Following a vegan or dairy-free diet? The folks at Ice Cream Social have you covered with coconut milk and fruit sorbet options.

What To Order At Ice Cream Social

You’ll find classics — like vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry — available year-round along with specialty flavors like salted caramel, mint chocolate chip, and cookies and cream. Additionally, look for tasty seasonally-inspired flavors like passionfruit, cherry pistachio, pumpkin, sweet potato marshmallow, and peppermint hot cocoa.

From a locally-roasted cup of coffee in the morning to a fresh fish dinner and a sweet nightcap, these are my favorite restaurants in Tacoma, Washington.

Related Reading:

• 9 Fantastic Things To Do During A Long Weekend In Tacoma, Washington
• This Writer Loves Her Retirement Hometown So Much She Wrote A Book About It
• 7 Interesting Places To Explore In Tacoma, Washington

It is no secret that Dublin, Ireland, has a vibrant and popular pub culture, but did you know it is also a foodie’s paradise? It’s true! Whether you want to indulge in traditional staples like Irish stew and fish and chips, or visit a five-star Michelin restaurant, Dublin has you covered. 

One of my favorite ways to explore an area’s food is to participate in a food tour; luckily, Dublin offers many options. After extensive research, I decided to take a Secret Food Tour in Dublin, and I was glad I did! Dublin’s Secret Food Tour allowed me to taste some incredible food, and I learned loads of history about Dublin and made some new friends!

Before I introduce you to some of the yummy dishes I tried on my Dublin food tour, the stops on the tour may have changed. Please visit the Secret Food Tour website for the latest tour information. Let’s dive into my favorite dishes I tried while on Dublin’s Secret Food Tour (foods are listed in no particular order).

I was gifted a tour by Secret Food Tours, but, as always, all opinions are my own.

1. Traditional Irish Breakfast

Kilkenny Design

From the outside, Kilkenny Design looks like a design store, so I wouldn’t have ever thought to venture inside for a good meal. When our tour guide stopped in front of it, I assumed he would just give us information about the neighborhood. To my surprise, this was the first stop on our food tour. As we ventured inside and went up the stairs, we were greeted with a bustling little café full of delicious smells and happy-looking people.

The first dish we received on the tour was a traditional Irish breakfast. The dish consisted of potato cakes, brasher (ham for my American friends), white pudding, and fried tomatoes. Having tasted the other items before, I was most excited to try the white pudding since it was new to me. White pudding is a meat dish that consists of fat, oatmeal, or barley with breadcrumbs, spices, and in some recipes, pork and/or pork liver. These ingredients are combined, filled into a natural or cellulose sausage casing, and then cooked.

I couldn’t believe the size of the portions. Reminding myself that this was our first stop, I decided to pace myself and only eat a few bites of each item. I must admit, though, this was hard as the food was so good!

2. Irish Stew

The Hairy Lemon

My first taste of traditional Irish Stew took place on the Secret Food Tour while visiting a fabulous Irish pub named The Hairy Lemon. The Hairy Lemon is a quintessential Irish pub right in the heart of Dublin. There are random, fun decorations hanging all about and televisions showing sporting events throughout the bar. People are laughing and the beer is flowing! The wood paneling and cozy tables enhanced the lively atmosphere of the Hairy Lemon and made me just want to sit and stay a while.

When my Irish stew arrived, I was greeted with a steamy bowl of thick, hearty stew full of chunks of meat and vegetables. The dish was accompanied by a slice of Irish soda bread perfect for dipping. Compared to an American stew, the Irish stew had a thicker consistency. In addition, lamb meat was used instead of beef, which resulted in a richer flavor. I have read that some Irish stews can also be made with mutton (mature sheep). I did not try the mutton, so I cannot speak to its taste. If you are not sure if the stew you are getting is made with lamb or mutton, just ask your server.

3. Guinness Pie

The Hairy Lemon

Since my husband, Marty, and I were both participating in the food tour, I had the opportunity to share dishes with him during our visit to The Hairy Lemon. Marty ordered the Guinness pie. Having never heard of it, I was excited to try it!

Guinness pie is beef cooked in a savory gravy with vegetables and spices and then covered in pastry. I equated this dish to a delicious homemade pot pie. The crust was buttery and flaky, and the filling was flavorful. We paired ours with a big, fresh pint of Guinness beer, which was perfect. Honestly, I enjoyed the Guinness pie more than I did my stew. I highly recommend you try it!

4. Fish & Chips

Leo Burdock

Leo Burdock began serving delicious food to the Dublin community in 1913. Its website says they would wrap their fish and chips in day-old newspapers when they first began. This fast food-style fish-and-chips tradition caught on quickly as the company became famous for having some of the best in the area. According to our guide, Cal, it is not uncommon for Burdock’s to have a line around the corner. (Cal added that it is well worth the wait, and the line usually moves quickly.)

The restaurant’s interior has a relaxed, nautical vibe that instantly makes you feel at home. Looking over the menu, I was surprised at the choices offered. Not only do they serve fish and chips, but Leo Burdock also offers a wide variety of other foods, such as chicken tenders, hamburgers, sausages, and smoked cod. They even have a kids’ menu that offers reasonably priced, child-friendly choices.

During our visit to Leo Burdock, our tour included tasting the fish and chips. The fish was perfectly cooked and piping hot! The batter was light and crisp, and the tender, flaky fish inside melted in your mouth. Of course, the chips (french fries for my Americans) were also perfectly cooked. I loved that the meal was wrapped in paper, making it easy to sit and eat on or transport with you on the go.

We have eaten a lot of fish and chips on our travels, and I have to admit, Leo Burdock’s might be some of the best we have ever tasted. With that in mind, you should add this dish to your list of things to eat in Dublin!

5. Ice Cream

Murphy’s Ice Cream

If you’re an ice cream lover, you should probably book a flight to Ireland right now. I don’t know what they do to their dairy products, but they are amazing, and this is especially true for their ice cream! Murphy’s Ice Cream has churned out delicious ice cream since 2000. According to their website, their goal is to “make memorable flavors that put a smile on your face.” The company prides itself on using only natural ingredients. There are “no colorings, flavorings, or powdered milk.” I guess that is why it tastes so good!

Stepping into the Murphy’s Ice Cream store in Dublin immediately made me smile. The building was small but charming, cute, and, best of all, the employees were all smiling and happy. The menu showcased their delightful flavors, including Dingle sea salt, Irish brown bread, chocolate, and butterscotch. They even have alcohol-infused flavors like chocolate whiskey infused with West Cork whiskey, and Micil Irish cream infused with Irish whiskey and Irish cream!

My favorite thing about Murphy’s is that they will let you sample the ice creams until you decide on a flavor you love! This was important to me as I had difficulty choosing a flavor. I finally settled on the Irish cream and Marty chose the chocolate. The Irish cream ice cream was so decadent and creamy. I equate it to eating a frozen Irish coffee. Marty’s chocolate was just as delicious. The smooth and rich chocolate flavor just melted in your mouth. The server at Murphy’s told me that they use one of the best cocoas in the world to make their chocolate ice cream, which gives it a distinct and rich chocolate taste. It was amazing! I loved Murphy’s ice cream so much that I ate it daily. We even found one on our day trip to Kilkenny!

6. Irish Whiskey

Celtic Whiskey Shop & Wines On The Green

I don’t know if Irish whiskey qualifies as a “dish,” but I just couldn’t write this without including it! During our Secret Food Tour, we had the opportunity to visit a charming little shop in Dublin named the Celtic Whiskey Shop & Wines on the Green. This shop, centrally located near St. Stephen’s Green, is worth stopping in Dublin.

The shop’s interior was warm and welcoming with wood paneling and hues of brown and green. One side of the shop contained wine for sale, and the other housed the whiskey. Our tour included tasting three Irish whiskeys: Teelings Whiskey, The Dubliner, and Tullamore Dew. All three were smooth and delicious, but my favorite was the Teelings. I liked it so much that we chose to tour the Teelings Whiskey Distillery after our food tour!

Pro Tip: Food Tours

I have participated in Secret Food Tours worldwide — including Dublin, Boston, and Rome — and one thing I have learned is that you will eat a lot of food! My top tip when participating in a tour is to wear comfortable clothing and to pace yourself.

Related Reading:

• 9 Foodie Favorite Restaurants In Dublin
• 7 Fabulous Things Not To Miss While Exploring Dublin By Foot
• 12 Amazing Walking Tours To Experience In Dublin

Sections of this article were made possible through the generosity of the Lafayette Convention and Visitors Commission and Cajun Food Tours. However, all opinions are entirely my own.

Lafayette is a charming city in Lafayette Parish and the heart of Louisiana’s Acadiana region, where everyone seems to be in a good mood. There are many reasons for all the joy, not the least of which is the local cuisine that pops with flavor and leaves you wanting more. If you’ve been to New Orleans, head west and prepare yourself for a food adventure that is somewhat familiar, but completely different.

My husband and I had the pleasure of exploring Lafayette’s history, culture, and culinary gems on a recent visit. We dove in head first with an appreciation of the unique nature of the region. Now, we would like to share our culinary experiences by introducing you to the Cajun foods that made us say, “Wow!”

1. Boudin

Nunu’s Fresh Market

If Cajun cuisine had a fast food component, it would be boudin. In Acadiana, boudin is the boss. Folks eat it hot all day long. They eat it in their cars, at the office, and home. There is even a Boudin Trail.

Boudin is a dressing composed of ground pork, rice, and seasoning packed into a casing. But don’t make the mistake of calling boudin a sausage. That’s one thing no self-respecting Cajun would ever do.

More recently, unlinked boudin — sans the casing — has become a creative concoction resulting in such treats as deep-fried boudin balls, tacos, and egg rolls.

The Lafayette area is a boudin bonanza and you can find it anywhere from restaurants to gas stations. But if you want some serious edible eye candy to go along with your boudin, try it at Nunu’s Fresh Market. We preferred the smooth texture of their gently seasoned boudin to the more coarsely ground versions we’ve tried.

Nunu’s is a Cajun’s paradise when it comes to fresh meats, smoked and smoke-free sausages, salads, prepared foods, fresh produce, libations, and more. Shop to your heart’s content, but be sure to grab a container of Nunu’s Cajun Seasoning to take home, spice up your cooking, and dream of Lafayette.

2. Gumbo

Ton’s Drive-In

If you shy away from gumbo because of the okra, take heart. Traditional Cajun gumbo doesn’t contain it. The New Orleans-style Creole gumbo is less common than the chicken and sausage gumbo served throughout Acadiana.

We discovered this truth at Ton’s Drive-in. This third-generation family-owned restaurant was a drive-in in the 60s, but what you’ll find inside is definitely worth getting out of your car.

Our gumbo arrived hot with rice and generous chunks of chicken and sausage in a thick broth. The meats were tender and full of flavor, and the broth had a satisfying kick. What made this gumbo experience different was the scoop of potato salad on the side. It’s considered normal to plop some in your gumbo, but I found it quite enjoyable on its own.

The word “gumbo” is based on an African word for okra. The seeds arrived on American shores along with Senegalese slaves. The seeds were cultivated and the okra pods were used as a thickener for soup. In the 1700s, French settlers introduced roux. Although all good gumbos begin with a dark roux, Cajuns tend to use it as the only thickener in their gumbos.

3. Boiled Crawfish

The Cajun Table

If you’ve never eaten crawfish, or even know what they are, don’t feel bad. Outside the South, you are among many. They are small freshwater crustaceans, approximately 95 percent of which are harvested in Louisiana. The taste is hard to define, but if you can imagine a mixture of lobster, crab, and shrimp in one mouthful, you’re getting close. Add a small uptick in the sweetness factor, and you’re there.

The Cajun Table serves a variety of taste-tempting dishes, and it’s hard to choose a favorite. But when it comes to having its way with crawfish, the restaurant shines. Perhaps this is because the owner catches the little guys fresh every morning when they’re in season, and boils them the same afternoon with his special spices.

Some of the other crawfish incarnations you’ll find include Cajun nachos with fried crawfish tails, Maw’s Crawfish Dip, and Nonky’s Fonky Potatoes, deep fried potatoes smothered in crawfish queso, topped with bacon and green onions. If you’re at the restaurant on a Friday, try the crawfish fettuccine. You can dig into the iconic crawfish étouffée almost any time.

The Cajun Table began as a food truck, making the transition to a brick-and-mortar restaurant in March 2017. It’s open for lunch and dinner and offers zydeco music to accompany your delectable down-home Cajun meal.

While you’re waiting for that meal, take a look around at the homegrown décor: 100-year-old corrugated tin from the owner’s great grandfather’s shed, vintage crawfish traps and tools, and the family’s 1970 flat bottom boat that serves as the liquor display.

4. Oysters

Fezzos Seafood, Steakhouse, And Oyster Bar

Oyster beds are plentiful in South Louisiana, leading to plump, delectable oyster options on menus everywhere you go. You can have them fried on a seafood platter or in a po’ boy, in a stew, or you can slurp them raw from the shell with a touch of horseradish or a shake of Tabasco. I like them all, but my favorite is the Monterey version at Fezzos.

Chargrilled oysters are popular in Acadiana. They’re prepared with butter, garlic, and parmesan. The Monterey Oysters begin in the same manner, then are kicked up a notch with the addition of Monterey Jack, crispy bacon, and jalapeños. You’d think the poor oyster would disappear amid all the other goodies on the shell, but the char grilling gives it a definite presence. Even if you’re not an oyster enthusiast, these just might change your mind.

Fezzo means little wooden spool in French, which explains the logo. It was also the nickname for the owner’s father, in whose honor he named the restaurant. Perhaps the explanation for the alligator out front is that it represents the tender marinated fried alligator available inside.

5. Alligator Po’ Boy

Prejean’s

Speaking of alligators, an enormous gator will greet you when you walk into Prejean’s. I don’t know if it has a name, but it’s an innovative indicator of one of the restaurant’s best and most interesting menu options.

My husband and I shared one of Prejean’s Poboys — they’re huge — filled with a generous portion of surprisingly tender fried alligator, dressed with lettuce, tomatoes, and pickles, with a side of fries. If you’re wondering, alligator does taste a little like chicken.

Another gator goodie is the Louisiana alligator filets, seasoned, breaded, and served with seafood boulettes. I’m dying to try the alligator cheesecake, smokehouse alligator sausage, and fresh gulf shrimp, blended with cream cheese and creole seasoning. The dish is baked over a parmesan and panko crust and topped with crawfish cardinale cream sauce.

Despite the fancy-sounding menu offerings, Prejean’s is casual to the core and completely unpretentious. You can comfortably bring the kids, and if they turn their noses up at the idea of eating gator, there’s a vast assortment of other tasty options from which to choose.

6. King Cake

Poupart’s Bakery

King Cake, with its traditional green, purple, and gold icing, is generally associated with Mardi Gras, but its story goes much farther back than the first New Orleans Mardi Gras parade in 1857.

The cake is a French tradition dating back to the middle ages. It was part of the epiphany celebration on January 6. A dried bean was placed in the cake batter before baking and the person receiving the bean in their slice became king for the entire day. The king would also have good fortune throughout the year if he didn’t choke on the bean first, that is.

Today, the bean is replaced with a small figurine representing the Baby Jesus, making it less of a choking hazard. Another change is that the person receiving the baby will host the next party. King Cake is only available between Epiphany and Mardi Gras.

Generally, sweet yeast dough is used to make King Cake, but Poupart’s uses brioche dough to give it a soft, rich, buttery texture and stuffs it with pecan, cinnamon, and cream cheese filling. It still looks like King Cake, but the taste and texture take it to a loftier level.

Bakery owner, Francois Poupart, arrived from France in 1960 and opened up shop in 1967. He lives over the bakery and still comes down at 4:00 a.m. to bake bread.

Pro Tip: It’s hard to find a bad meal in Lafayette Parish — although researching the possibility could be great fun — but you might want some guidance. A food tour is an excellent way to familiarize yourself with traditional Cajun foods, as well as the history of the Acadiana Region. We took an Original Cajun Food Tour with Marie, owner of Cajun Food Tours. Not only did we enjoy some excellent examples of traditional Cajun cuisine, but Marie also regaled us with stories and interesting facts as we rode her decked-out 14-passenger party bus from location to location.

Tucked below Mainland Australia is the island state of Tasmania (fondly referred to as “Tassie”), roughly the size of West Virginia. Tasmania is Australia’s coldest state because of its closer proximity to the Polar Zone. 

For those worried about Australia’s heat, I can’t promise Tasmania is always freezer-chill. But even in summer, I’d pack a light jacket. Cooled by the westerly winds off the Southern Ocean, the moderate maritime climate is perfect for grape growing, and that’s just one of the reasons Tasmania a great place to take a wine tour. 

Fun Fact: Tasmania represents the future of Australian winemaking. Mindful of rising temperatures in traditional wine regions such as the Barossa, Mainland wineries are opening vineyards in Tasmania.

1. Tasmania’s Answer To Champagne 

The Pipers River Region is Tasmania’s answer to Champagne. In the 1980s, winemakers from iconic champagne house Louis Roederer scoured the globe looking for the best place to make sparkling wine and chose Tasmania’s Tamar Valley. 

Drum roll, please! Tasmania won best sparkling of the year in 2020 against French competitors, and Wine Enthusiast ranks Tasmania as one of the 10 Best Wine Travel Destinations, making this the place for people who love bubbly.

2. More Than 30 Vineyards To Choose From

Hobart, Tasmania’s capital, is edged by wineries. Some are near the airport, where tourists can rent vehicles, including RVs, to lap Tassie. The Coal River Valley, with its 33 vineyards, is only 25 minutes outside Hobart.

Another concentration of wineries is in the Tamar Valley near Launceston. The drive between Hobart and Launceston takes 3 hours. 

Pro Tip: Hobart and Launceston both have major airports. Helicopters service several wineries. A car ferry, The Spirit of Tasmania, departs Geelong (near Melbourne, Victoria) and crosses Bass Strait to Tasmania.

3. Gorgeous Scenery

Tasmania is reminiscent of England, with patchworks of green fields, deciduous trees, teahouses, and Georgian-style manors. Drive down country lanes. Winemakers’ dogs mosey out to greet you, and lines of green vines crisscross the view of blue hills. Tasmania’s slogan is “Come Down for Air,” and you’ll appreciate why during your wine tour.

4. Nearby Tourist Attractions 

Coal Valley Wineries are close to the much-photographed colonial village of Richmond. Moorilla Estate is next to MONA — a famous avant-garde museum. Combine a trip to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Port Arthur Historic site with a stop at Bream Creek Vineyard. I particularly enjoyed viticulturist Fred Peacock’s award-winning 2018 Late Picked (Dessert) Schönburger.

Pro Tip: Bream Creek’s new cellar door is due for completion in mid-2023. Till then, tastings and sales are at The Dunalley Waterfront Cafe and Gallery, halfway between Hobart and Port Arthur. 

5. Not-To-Miss Food Pairings

A visit to Tasmania is a balancing act: a wine glass in one hand and nibbles in the other. Wrapped by rich oceans and blessed with ample rainfall and a moderate climate, Tasmania produces world-class food. Southern Rock Lobster, Pacific oyster abalone, and Atlantic salmon come from the waters. The lush pastures raise some of Australia’s best beef. Tasmanian dairy products are legendary. Then there’s Leatherwood wild honey and black truffles (known as Périgord truffles in France).

Think Tassie Pinot Noir with slow pulled pork, sparkling with freshly shucked oysters, Chardonnay with Tassie’s juicy scallops, Cabernet Merlot with grass-fed spring lamb, and iced riesling with spiced pear pavlova. Josef Chromy Cellar Door and Frogmore Creek wineries are renowned for their restaurants. 

Pro Tip: In Hobart, The Lounge by Frogmore Creek is an elegant bar and restaurant on Hobart’s waterfront. 

6. Sustainability Beyond Winemaking 

Tasmania is green in more ways than one. The Australian Greens are a national political party that grew from environmental campaigns in Tasmania. Over 20 percent of the land is part of UNESCO’s Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, and 40 percent is a national park or reserve.

It’s easy to pick a Taswegian at an airport — the men often had flowing beards, and Tasmanians are known for being passionate about their wilderness hikes. Tasmanian winemakers tend toward permaculture, organics, amphora aging (the process of aging wines in clay), and carbon-neutral trends. 

7. Easy-To-Follow Wine Trails 

Tasmania has four wine trails. The website Wine Tasmania supplies free online maps and tools. Create an itinerary focusing on sparkling or Pinot Noir. Pinpoint wineries offering restaurants or accommodation, and definitely make time for at least a few of the best wineries and vineyards introduced below.

Best Tasmanian Wineries Near Hobart

I took a 6-day Tassie wine trip with Wine Guild Victoria. These experts know the best wineries to visit; as a novice, I got to sip and enjoy. I’m thankful to the organizers, Graeme Lofts, author of Heart and Soul: Australia’s First Families of Wine, and his wife, Dianne, who circled Tasmania twice researching the itinerary.

Their choices for my stand-alone tour showcased Tasmania’s distinctive wines and provided variety. Each winery was different because of its colonial history, modern architecture, or stunning grounds. Below I outline the stops on our itinerary, beginning with the wineries nearest Hobart. 

Riversdale Estate, Cambridge 

Riversdale Estate screams “Vive la France,” with its French bistro, European decor, a French Orangery serving silver-service high teas, and French Provincial accommodation. The English may have settled the region, but the French came first. In 1802, Napoleon Bonaparte commissioned Pierre Faure aboard the Naturaliste, and he was the first European into Pittwater, landing on the shores near present-day Riversdale. The winery builds on these French origins with a French winemaker and a $7 million winery harnessing innovative French technology.

Book a formal free tasting before a sea of regally monogrammed glasses. Large windows showcase the Pittwater waterfront. Wines reflect the unique terroir of the location

Must-Try Wines At Riversdale: Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Riesling, Syrah, Pinot Gris, Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon

Puddleduck Vineyard, Richmond 

Darren and Jackie Brown established their boutique family-owned winery in 1997. The seated tastings are relaxed in a room jutting over their duck pond. Their Ducky Duck Shop stocks everything ducky.

As we sipped our wines of choice, a flotilla of fluffy ducklings passed below right on cue. BYO picnics and nestle in. 

Must-Try Wines At Puddleduck: Fumé Blanc, Pinot Noir, and flagship Bubbleduck — made from a blend of 60 percent Pinot Noir and 40 percent Chardonnay

Every Man & His Dog Vineyard, Richmond 

Maurice and Helen Curtis, the owners of Federation Chocolate, purchased this vineyard in 2021. Their friendliness and good humor make for outstanding hosts. They pair artisan chocolates with wine — a match made in heaven. Tasked with nibbling hand-crafted chocolates while sipping, there was silence from our usually rowdy group. No one spat the wine as doing so would mean not finishing the chocolate. Book ahead for chocolate matching.

Must-Try Wines At Every Man & His Dog: Cool climate Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Unwooded Chardonnay 

Frogmore Creek, Cambridge 

Frogmore Creek is the largest ultra-premium cool-climate winery in Southern Tasmania. The blue-timber Hampton-style architecture overlooks the Coal River Valley, and the estate is home to the Frogmore Creek and 42 Degrees South wine labels. Enjoy intimate tastings at the Cellar Door or wine flights over lunch. 

Must-Try Wine At Frogmore Creek: Iced Riesling with the Lavender Field dessert — blueberry panna cotta, violet sponge, shortbread crumb, lavender ice cream, and candied violet

Derwent Estate, Granton 

Stop at Derwent Estate for a tasting in the convict-built Rathbone Cottage (circa 1820). Sit by the fire or on the verandah overlooking the Derwent River. Stroll the beautiful grounds. Tasmania has distinct subregions, including the Derwent Valley, where this vineyard has a calcareous soil type similar to places like Champagne, the Loire, and Burgundy.

The estate’s straw bale and lime structure is perfect for maturing wines in barrels. The on-site Shed Restaurant’s menu includes wallaby loin, stone ground beer bread with nasturtium butter, whipped coconut cream, poached rhubarb, and fennel syrup cake.

Must-Try Wines At Derwent: Pinot Noir and Chardonnay

Best Tasmanian Wineries Near Launceston

We shifted camp, relocating from Hobart to Launceston, a UNESCO City of Gastronomy in the Pipers River area, which is considered second only to France’s Champagne region when it comes to the production of sparkling wine.

Bay Of Fires Wines, Pipers River

Bay of Fires Wines shares its cellar door with the prestigious House of Arras, Australia’s most-awarded wine brand, and affordable-but-quality Eddystone Point. A House of Arras sparkling was named the world’s best in 2020. The winery offers extensive masterclasses and experiences for serious sparkling lovers.

Must-Try Wine At Bay Of Fires: Anything sparkling

Jansz Tasmania, Pipers Brook 

In 1989 Heemskerk and the French Champagne house Roederer introduced the renowned sparkling “Jansz,” becoming Tasmania’s first to use Méthode Traditionnelle, whereby wine undergoes a secondary fermentation inside the bottle. Visit the ivy-clad tasting room. Outside benches and tables have views over a lake.

Must-Try Wine (And Bites) At Jansz Tasmania: Wine-tasting floats and platters on the lawn (I can’t speak highly enough of the Bruny Island cheeses they offer. They live on in my memory.)

Pipers Brook Vineyard, Pipers Brook

Established in 1974, Pipers Brook is a pioneer of the Tasmanian wine industry. They produce the acclaimed Kreglinger Vintage, Pipers Brook, and Ninth Island wines. 

Nadine’s Cafe at Pipers Brook offers self-guided tastings that match Tasmanian produce with estate-grown wines. In a region famous for its food platters, Nadine’s takes the cake. It takes the cake and everything else and bundles them onto a platter. Think mountains of hot and cold food prepared in-house, duck rolls; rice balls; stuffed mushrooms, gourmet cheeses; prawns; smoked salmon; quince paste; a Pinot-soaked whole pear, and a chocolate fudge-style cake with raspberries. 

Must-Try Wines At Pipers Brook: World-class sparkling wines, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Riesling, Pinot Gris, and Sauvignon Blanc

Clover Hill, Lebrina 

Clover Hill Wines is poised over a valley offering breathtaking views; the modern rammed-earth building shaped like a clover. Enjoy wines fit for royalty, enjoyed by Queen Elizabeth at Government House in Canberra, and served at Crown Prince Frederik and Princess Mary’s Royal Wedding.

Must-Try Wines (And Bites) At Clover Hill: The Small Plate Tasting Menu lunch, a seated tasting of 6 Clover Hill sparkling wines (reservations required), plus a glass of Clover Hill Vintage Brut or Vintage Riché

Josef Chromy Wines, Relbia 

Josef Chromy Wines and Restaurant was named Northern Tasmania’s Best Large Cellar Door in 2021. Tastings are in the original 1880s homestead, surrounded by century-old gardens. Roses trail down to an idyllic lake with waterside gazebos. Enjoy the chef-hatted restaurant. Or pre-book a gourmet hamper and bottle of wine to relax on the grounds.

Must-Try Wines At Josef Chromy: Pinot Gris, Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Merlot, Botrytis Riesling, and Ruby Pinot Port in addition to the renowned Tasmanian traditional method sparkling

Tamar Ridge, ​Rosevears

The Brown Family Wine Group (previously Brown Brothers) purchased Tamar Ridge in 2010 to expand into Tasmania. These vineyards account for 20 percent of Tasmania’s wine production. Turner Stillhouse shares the grounds and offers tastings of Three Cuts Gin.

Must-Try Wines At Tamar Ridge: Cool-climate Pinot Noir alongside Pirie Sparkling and cool-climate white varietals (though with gin on the scene, I must admit my loyalties were divided!)

Additional Recommendations

• The Lufra at Eaglehawk Neck for seafood with views over the wild Tasman Sea
• Old Kempton Distillery for colonial history and award-winning single-malt whisky
• Huntington Tavern for country fare and fine ales
• Alida Restaurant, inside Penny Royal, for excellent cocktails and Tasmanian dishes
• A visit to Cataract Gorge — perfect for walking off the excess calories

For more on Tasmania, consider The One Place You Don’t Have On Your Australia Travel Itinerary, But Definitely Should.

Drive down 6^th Avenue or Beltline Road in Decatur during mealtimes, and you will wonder if anyone cooks at home anymore. People in Decatur love to eat out, and it might be because they have so many delicious choices.

Note: Simp McGhee’s and The RailYard are two special occasion choices. Whisk’D is popular for breakfast and brunch. B.B. Perrins, Alfonso’s, Josie’s, Francesco’s, and Let’s Do Lunch are very casual. Brick Deli specializes in sandwiches and live music at night. Penn’s and Big Bob’s have the greatest longevity and are synonymous with Decatur. All are on my list of favorites, but they are not listed in order of preference.

1. Simp McGhee’s 

Simp McGhee’s is open for dinner Tuesday through Saturday. The menu features seafood prominently, but it also includes steaks, chops, chicken, duck, lamb, and pasta. The preparations have a noticeable New Orleans and Cajun influence, and the Derby Pie is a signature dessert.

The restaurant’s name is borrowed from a notorious riverboat captain who was the subject of many colorful stories on the Tennessee River and from his stops in Decatur. He bought a brothel in Decatur and put his girlfriend Miss Kate in charge. He is also said to have sat at the bar he owned drinking beer with his pet pig.

The restaurant does not have the atmosphere of a speakeasy, although there is an extensive bar. The dishes served are bursting with flavor.

2. The RailYard 

You can enter The RailYard either from 209 2^nd Avenue SE or from a ground-level door near a parking lot at the corner of Grant Street and 1st Avenue. The name makes sense when you hear the trains rumble nearby and catch glimpses of the tracks. It is open for lunch and dinner Tuesday through Saturday. Owner Tyler Jones is a Decatur native and is happy being a major player in this town he loves.

Salads, burgers, and sandwiches share the menu with lunch entrees like shrimp and grits, Salisbury steak, and salmon, and dinner entrees such as graham cracker chicken, grilled ribeye, and glazed scallops.

3. Whisk’D

Whisk’D shares an owner and a parking lot with The RailYard. It is open from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. 7 days a week and is a popular eatery with merchants and business people in downtown Decatur and with those who visit the seasonal farmers market a block away.

At Whisk’D, diners place their orders and pay at a counter, then find a seat in the main area with whimsical art-filled walls or in a sunroom with window walls on two sides. Notable menu items include the free coffee and the fried potatoes prepared five different ways. You will find waffles, omelets, French toast, scrambles, and typical breakfast a la carte favorites.

4. Josie’s Mediterranean Cafe 

Josie’s has a very fortunate location across the street from the Princess Theatre, making it perfect for a date night of dinner and then a live performance or showing of a classic film — while only needing to find parking once. Josie’s is open for dinner Tuesday through Sunday and for brunch on Sunday. It is owned by the same couple who owns Simp McGhee’s. Josie’s menu is Mediterranean, and the restaurant’s name was inspired by a song recorded by the rock group Steely Dan.

As expected with Mediterranean cuisine, you may order pizza, pasta, wraps, salads, paella, tacos, falafel, chicken shawarma nachos, tiramisu, and limoncello martinis, among other less exotic dishes. Brunch dishes include avocado toast, eggs Benedict, and chicken and waffles.

5. The Brick Deli And Tavern

Brick Deli is a short walk around the corner from Josie’s. It is open for lunch on Monday and Tuesday, for lunch and dinner Wednesday through Saturday, and is closed on Sunday. Word has it that if you do not enjoy loud music, plan your visit before 7 p.m. Live music is a big part of Brick Deli’s appeal for those who are looking for nightlife. Sandwiches, salads, and soups make up the bulk of the menu, and potato salad and banana pudding get rave reviews.

The building that houses Brick Deli is over a hundred years old. It was an office building and a furniture store before becoming a restaurant, but before that, it was also a speakeasy and a bordello. The upstairs is reported to be haunted, so the owners allow it to be the site of the annual Nightmare on Moulton Street haunted house.

6. Let’s Do Lunch 

Let’s Do Lunch is, as the name implies, only a lunch place, open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Many businesses and customers take advantage of their order online feature for takeout and catering offerings in addition to enjoying a casual lunch at the indoor or outdoor tables.

Let’s Do Lunch has been serving hungry Decaturites since 1988, and its cornbread salad made the AL’s list of “100 Dishes to Eat in Alabama Before You Die.” There are a few hot items on the menu, but most are cold salads and sandwiches. You will see plenty of men here, but this place is perfect for girlfriend lunch dates.

Pro Tip: My favorites when I visit are the four varieties of chicken salad — traditional, buffalo, grape, or cranberry pecan — or the strawberry pretzel salad.

7. B.B. Perrins Sports Grille

Benny Perrin was a football star at Decatur High School who went on to play for Bear Bryant at the University of Alabama and spent four seasons with the Saint Louis Cardinals of the National Football League. When he made his way back to Decatur, he and his brother Braxton opened the first sports bar and grill in town in 1988. Without apology, the décor is made up of sports memorabilia.

The menu at B.B. Perrins Sports Grille has a generous variety of burgers, gourmet pizzas, sandwich plates, tacos, and barbecued meats. The tempting side dishes are equally appealing, and homemade desserts are worth the splurge.

Pro Tip: My favorite sides are fried okra, garlic mashed potatoes, turnip greens, and poolroom slaw.

8. Alfonso’s Pizza & Italian Restaurant 

Alfonso’s Pizza & Italian Restaurant began serving customers in 1977 on 6^th Avenue. In the last year, the owner (daughter of the original owner) moved her restaurant to 725 Beltline Road SW in a sleek new building decorated with wooden pizza paddles and metal pizza pans. Her dad still comes in every morning to start the sauces simmering, so the consistent taste that has created many loyal fans is continuing in the new venue. All sauces and doughs are prepared fresh daily.

Open for lunch and dinner every day except Sunday, the lunch specials, which are primarily half-size portions of dinner pastas, are attractively priced and exceedingly popular. Pizzas with a choice of 16 toppings are outstanding at Alfonso’s.

Pro Tip: My personal favorite is the Spaghetti Bake served with buttered garlic bread.

9. C.F. Penn Hamburgers

Charles Franklin Penn opened his first burger café in nearby Hartselle in 1927 and a second location in Decatur in 1939. The Hartselle café closed, but the Decatur eatery continues to serve Depression-era burgers to diners who love them. And, if the burgers are good enough for Elvis Presley, then they deserve to stay in business.

The story goes that Elvis never made it to Penn’s, but his good friend Charlie Hodge from Decatur introduced him to these unique burgers. On occasion, Elvis sent a driver from Memphis to pick up a few dozen.

The menu is small, offering burgers, hot dogs, fries, onion rings, and soft drinks. The burgers are not all beef. Cooks during Depression days added filler to stretch the meat, so a secret recipe of fillers is still used today. Admittedly, they are an acquired taste.

10. Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q

Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q has a nationwide reputation gained from its white sauce and its vast collection of barbecue competition trophies. Big Bob started serving barbecue to his friends from his backyard grill in 1925. By the early 1950s, his 6th Ave SE storefront packed in customers daily for hickory-smoked pork, chicken, beef, brisket, turkey, and ribs with sides of beans, slaw, potato salad, mac and cheese, or chips. Anyone who visits Decatur for the first time will be directed to Big Bob’s for a meal. A second location is on Danville Road, but take note that it is not open on Sunday.

Pro Tip: The pies are almost as famous as the barbecue. Be sure to save room for a slice of coconut cream, lemon icebox, chocolate, pecan, or peanut butter pie. Or better yet, take a whole pie home to share with your family.

11. Francesco’s Italian Restaurant

Francesco’s Italian Restaurant has an extensive menu of the most popular Italian favorites. The lunch specials offered Tuesday through Saturday include a salad and their wonderful garlic knots for less than $10. The Sunday lunch bunch fills the dining room with lively conversation and the anticipation of great food.

Pro Tip: The generous portion of baked spaghetti is my personal recommendation, along with Italian lemon cream cake for dessert.

Other Decatur spots that should be mentioned among the best restaurants are Libby’s Catfish and Diner on Highway 67 S, Moe’s Original BBQ next door to the Princess Theatre, and Bank Street Grill located, of course, on Bank Street. All have great food, and you can make a stop after your meal at Tess’ Place on 2nd Avenue for ice cream.

Menu predictability has its place — there are times when you are simply not in the mood for surprises and want exactly what you ordered and enjoyed in other parts of the state and country. Chain eateries on Beltline Rd SW include Buffalo Wild Wings, steakhouses such as Texas Roadhouse and Logan’s Roadhouse, Applebee’s, Chili’s Grill & Bar, O’Charley’s, and the expected fast food places.

A half dozen Mexican restaurants are also in that area. I, however, favor locally owned businesses, especially those that have survived the critical test of time and are still thriving and bringing in loyal customers. I enjoy restaurants and chefs who understand the tastebuds of North Alabama diners and know how much experimentation we will tolerate. 

The 11 restaurants I have suggested are found near the major thoroughfares and on Bank Street and 2nd Avenue in historic downtown Decatur. Within 10 minutes and by driving only about 5 miles, you can travel from my northeast Decatur recommendations to those in the southwest. That makes it easy to check out several that sound promising before committing and going inside.

I hope I have enticed you to visit Decatur. Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge and Cook Museum of Natural Science are premiere attractions, but good food is also a chief reason to explore this North Alabama town in Morgan County on the Tennessee River.

Further Reading:

• 8 Incredible Reasons To Visit Decatur, Alabama
• My 7 Favorite Stops On A North Alabama Road Trip
• 6 Ways Alabama Really Is The State Of Surprises

You can’t fling a martini glass out an Uber window in downtown Washington, D.C. without hitting a craft cocktail bar. But beyond the joints where guys with sleeve tattoos present mezcal elixirs with Sichuan peppercorn syrup, you’ll find a handful of bars that are, fundamentally, of the town itself. By virtue of location, clientele, or history, they convey the peculiar, particular culture of the capital city. They simply couldn’t exist anywhere else. If you’re sly, you’ll spend a bit of time at one of these bars that embody something significant and singular about the nation’s capital — maybe even more so than the other places you’ll spend time while in town.

Most of these bars can get packed on weekend nights. A pre-dinner drink is probably a better bet. You may get lucky with a nightcap, depending on how late you cap your nights. Weeknights tend to be more open. All five are located hard by the city’s monumental core, in areas that are pretty safe. A rideshare is rarely more than 3 minutes away. All the lounges have at least acceptable bistro-style food: burgers, mussels, charcuterie, crab cakes (a Maryland regional specialty appearing on many D.C. menus), and so on.

The barrier to this sort of D.C. liquid tourism is low. All you need is an hour to kill, a willingness to foot a fulsome bar tab, and curiosity about the lifeways in the district that administers the affairs of this strange and beautiful country.

Pro Tip: Sit at the bar, and you may overhear some pretty interesting conversations among the capital’s inhabitants. Or maybe you’ll just hear someone gassing on about European Union import tariffs. In any event, if you’re not the barstool type, grab a table facing it. You’ll drink in the vibe, the scene, and all the very Washington-ness of it all.

1. Off The Record

Where Washington Is A Caricature 

If you shot a nerf gun from the White House front gate hard enough to penetrate the walls of a stone building (I do not recommend this), the projectile might very well drop right into someone’s Manhattan at this long-tenured bar.

Off the Record is the house watering hole of the esteemed Hay-Adams Hotel, located directly across Lafayette Park from the White House. It’s a perfect duck away if you’ve been strolling the promenade on Pennsylvania Avenue, taking in the beauty of the President’s home and stepping briskly past the inevitable bands of protesters hollering at the fence.

Accessible via a downstairs passageway you won’t find without the help of the crisply-attired lobby sentries, Off the Record feels like a well-behaved speakeasy. And it nearly vibrates with its own sense of Washington significance. As one of the few restaurant-bars within walking distance of the White House complex, it fills with executive branch staff at lunch, happy hour, and especially in the evening (those folks work late).

The walls are lined with caricatures and photos of political and cultural prominentos. The big circular bar commands the room, and when you order a drink, it will be served up on a coaster bearing another political caricature. On my last visit, the barkeep offered me a choice: a joint portrait of former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Shumer, Florida Governor Ron deSantis, or California Governor Gavin Newsome. I asked if he had any moderates back there. He smiled uncomfortably.

The drinks, I have to say, are pretty good. I had the Smoking Mirrors — an Old Fashioned made with 10-year Whistlepig rye infused with cherrywood smoke via a very crafty ritual of flame. I should have looked at the price: $32. Hey, at least it had a piece of bacon as garnish. Most drinks on the menu are more reasonable, as are the beers and wines.

Pro Tip: Snag the coasters as souvenirs and you’ll have a good story to tell your friends back home.

2. The Vue

Looking Down At The White House 

This rooftop extravagance, lined with full windows facing three compass points, offers the most spectacular views of monumental Washington available to the public.

From the Vue, you can see the Washington Monument up close and personal, with the Jefferson Memorial tucked among the trees behind it. To the southwest, you’ll glimpse the top of the Lincoln Memorial, and in the distance, you’ll see the little-known Air Force Memorial — three enormous sculptural contrails that leap from the horizon.

But most significantly, you get one of the very few — often said to be the only — close-up views of the White House from above. Your view is across the east side of the mansion, home of ceremonial rooms and the First Lady’s offices.

To be fair, the White House view is significantly obstructed by the Treasury Building, but as a bonus, you can peer at the residence roof, which has long been said to harbor an installation of defensive weapons, but who knows? It looks like there’s also a walk-out balcony. (Hey, didn’t I see that on House of Cards?). The White House is framed by the florid Second Empire hulk of the Eisenhower Executive Office Building. Fun fact: That’s where most of the President’s staff works.

Bar tables fill the snazzily-decorated room, or you can grab a rail seat that puts you nose-to-glass. But don’t sit at the bar: Your back will be to all the views.

Pro Tip: The drinks and food are forgettable. After a quick sip and a look around, head across G Street to The Hamilton, a sprawling, popular restaurant that, with its live music and high-class vibe, has an almost supper-club feel.

3. The Round Robin

Stand Me A Drink 

The historic Willard Hotel dates to the early 19th century and still reigns as temporary D.C. quarters for the potentates of the world — from Louisiana oil lobbyists to royals from the Arabian Peninsula and blue-suited supplicants hoping to land federal contracts to some very well-heeled recreational visitors. It’s the hotel of choice for donors around inauguration time and its public rooms are magnificent.

The Round Robin bar is a period recreation of what it might have looked like in Willard’s youth when it was the hostelry for 19th-century swells. (Mark Twain wrote two books there; Buffalo Bill stayed overnight.) As advertised, the bar is round, occupying the room like an antique libatory command center, the sun cutting through a tower of cocktail glassware.

When the restored Willard reopened in the 1980s, the Round Robin fully recreated the 1880s experience by providing no chairs at the bar. Well, that didn’t last long. Now there are about 20 comfortable bar stools, maybe a dozen tables, and more wayback Washington portraiture.

Pro Tip: The Round Robin’s signature cocktail is the Mint Julep, marking the bar’s role in introducing the southern favorite to Washington in the 1840s. On my last visit, I had the Last Word, an 1880s classic, equal parts gin, green chartreuse, maraschino liqueur, and lime juice.

4. Cafe Milano

Pretend You’re A Someone

And now we head to Georgetown, once the center of Washington’s social life but now a churning retail hub packed with national chains, cupcakeries, noodle shops, and a small number of one-off specialty stores and restaurants.

A few blocks from the center of the madness, you’ll find Cafe Milano where Washington’s bold-faced names gather — Congress members, cabinet officials, ambassadors, hot-shot journalists, sports stars, and Hollywood actors. An armada of black Chevy Suburbans usually idles out front. To drop just a few names: Barack and Michelle Obama, Michael Jordan, Senator Joe Manchin, Bradley Cooper, the queen of Jordan, Ivanka Trump, Jennifer Lawrence, Serena Williams — you get the idea.

And you can go there too! My lovely wife and I stopped in late one Saturday afternoon. I wore jeans and a henley. She arrived on a bike and her hair was wild. We were treated with great hospitality by the hostess and the folks behind the bar. They probably thought we were the sort of people who are so rich they don’t have to care about what others think. If only they knew! We still left a good tip, of course.

The restaurant is bright and contemporary; the bar generous and well-stocked with an alarming selection of beverages that can gut your wallet with one misjudgment. But you can enjoy a fine shared contemporary Italian-ish meal without pain, and wine and drinks are hardly more than you’ll pay at most upmarket bistros.

Pro Tip: Cafe Milano has the best food and drinks of any of the places featured, so if you have one big meal out during your visit, make a reservation.

5. Martin’s Tavern

Where You Can Know Jack

Our last stop on the capital bar crawl is a small corner tavern in Georgetown that’s been in the hands of the same family for four generations. Let me be plain: The place puts the “shabby” in “shabby charm.” In my visits, the food has been unremarkable, the drinks undistinguished. The quarters are cramped, cut-up, and unrestored. When you walk up to the restroom you have to duck your head.

But there’s this: Martin’s Tavern is the place where neighborhood resident John F. Kennedy proposed to his girlfriend, Jackie Bouvier, in 1959. The well-beaten booth is marked with a plaque.

There is only one city where Jack Kennedy lived as a U.S. Senator, only one neighborhood restaurant where he was a regular, and only one booth that he proposed in. And you can be there. For one night, you can raise your own romantic toast at Martin’s Tavern.

Pro Tip: Everybody wants to reserve the Kennedy table. Good luck with that. Maybe you’ll have a chance if you tell them you’re going to propose yourself, or at least renew your vows. You would not be the first person in Washington to tell a useful lie.

Related Reading:

• 10 Beautiful Gardens Where You Can Celebrate Spring In Washington, D.C.
• 7 Fantastic Experiences At Washington, D.C.’s Newest Must-Visit Spot
• 7 Best Stops In Washington, D.C. With Your Teenage Grandchildren

Situated along the shores of the Colorado River-fed Lake Havasu in the region known as Arizona’s West Coast, Lake Havasu City is well-known among spring breakers and snowbirds for its abundant water sports, sunset river cruises, and all-around fun in the sun.

Owing to its riverside location, Lake Havasu shines in another area as well: Its many dining spots that offer stellar water views. It turns out that when it comes to dining with a view, there are few things that set Lake Havasu City apart.

Many of the city’s restaurants look out onto the 1800s-era London Bridge — a British landmark that once spanned the River Thames but was purchased from the city of London by an enterprising Lake Havasu real estate developer in the 1960s and relocated to the Arizona desert. Outdoor patios abound in Lake Havasu City, and here are nine places to get a great view of the river, and what to order when you’re there.

My stay was hosted by Go Lake Havasu tourism, but my opinions are my own.

1. Javelina Cantina

Restaurants don’t get much better access to the London Bridge than Javelina Cantina, a fun spot located right next to the bridge and overlooking the Bridgewater Channel. Javelina specializes in Sonoran-style Mexican cuisine and features a tequila bar and unique margaritas.

The inside of the restaurant is cozy, but the star of the place is the large outdoor patio that is perched right near the water. Even in January when I visited, Javelina’s patio was warm and comfortable.

Javelina has an extensive menu that includes virtually any Mexican cuisine favorite you can think of, from ceviche to quesadillas to fajitas to tacos. For a refreshing lunch, I loved the Baja shrimp cocktail — a spicy mixture of shrimp, cilantro, tomatoes, onions, cucumber, and avocado, all marinated in citrus juices and served with tortilla chips.

For a special occasion, consider Javelina’s massive molcajete bowl that features grilled chicken, grilled New York steak, lobster, and jumbo shrimp served over peppers and onions with rice, beans, cheese, guacamole, and salsa. The bowl is huge and is definitely designed for more than one.

2. The Chair

With a fun patio that looks right out at the London Bridge, The Chair restaurant offers a tantalizing mix of island, British, and Arizona fare.

The restaurant is located in Lake Havasu’s British Village, which also includes the Lake Havasu City Visitor Center, along with a picturesque fountain and a vintage gate from an English castle.

Playing into the Britain/Arizona theme that is on display all over Lake Havasu, The Chair’s menu includes a classic fish and chips entrée alongside The Big Kahuna sandwich, which features sweet-chili pulled pork, pickles, sweet slaw, hoisin sauce, pepper jack cheese, and grilled pineapple on a toasted bun.

Along with the patio’s colorful tables and bar stools is The Chair’s signature feature — an oversized blue chair that faces the London Bridge.

3. TüKûKAN Restaurant

Billed as Havasu’s best-kept secret, the waterfront TüKûKAN Restaurant is located across the lake at the Havasu Landing Resort & Casino on the California side. For a small fee, a ferry takes guests from the Bridgewater Channel in Lake Havasu to the casino and resort that is operated by the Chemehuevi people.

For me, a big part of the fun was the 15-minute ferry ride across the lake. The large boat leaves and returns hourly. I was able to catch a sunset cruise and arrive just as the lights of Lake Havasu were illuminated across the water.

TüKûKAN features Southwestern fare, such as the Chemehuevi taco served with homemade fry bread, seasoned ground beef, refried beans, shredded lettuce, cheese, salsa, and the Sonoran Fritos pie that combines ground beef with smoked achiote pork, Fritos chips, beans, cheese, and red chili sauce.

House-smoked barbecue is also a specialty, and I enjoyed the smoky flavor of the barbecued chicken entrée served with hearty mashed potatoes and cabbage slaw.

4. Burgers By The Bridge

As the name implies, Burgers by the Bridge offers a range of burgers and fries, along with other beachy options such as seafood buckets, chicken wings, and pizza. It’s all served up under a thatched roof. A heated patio offers some of the community’s best views of the London Bridge.

The go-to menu choice appears to be burgers and fries. Burgers by the Bridge offers a range of options, such as an Angus burger, a cheeseburger, and a bacon cheeseburger.

For me, hot chocolate with whipped cream was the perfect pick-me-up for viewing the holiday lights that were still glowing on the bridge on a cool early-January night.

5. Makai Café

Dining-with-a-view options are available on all four corners of the London Bridge and the Makai Café is a great choice on the Island Mall side of the bridge. Located on the bottom floor of the Island Mall, Makai’s outdoor patio offers an up-close view of the bridge.

With a cute island theme and décor, the café serves up excellent breakfast and lunch choices. Among the favorites are the “world famous benedicts,” which include a classic eggs benedict with Canadian bacon, as well as an Irish version with corned beef, a salmon benedict with a salmon filet and fresh spinach, and a veggie version with avocado, tomato, and fresh spinach. For a decadent brunch, try the banana nut French toast that comes with rich banana nut sauce, sliced bananas, and toasted pecans.

For lunch, the popular choice appeared to be the colorful sunburst salad, piled high with spring greens, tomatoes, red onions, cucumbers, mandarin oranges, strawberries, cranberries, pecans, and gorgonzola cheese.

6. Barley Brothers Restaurant & Brewery

The Island Mall features several dining options with views, including the Barley Brothers Restaurant & Brewery, which serves up a range of pub favorites, including burgers, salads, onion rings, pasta, and California-style pizzas and calzones.

For a treat, check out the lobster ravioli, featuring large ravioli stuffed with lobster and ricotta cheese in a red pepper cream sauce and topped with lobster meat and parmesan. Top it off with a glass of the JennaGrace Hefeweizen wheat beer, the restaurant’s “most thirst-quenching and refreshing beer.”

7. Martini Bay At London Bridge Resort

Billed as offering an “elevated dining experience,” the Martini Bay At London Bridge Resort occupies a prime spot along the Bridgewater Channel, looking out onto panoramic views of the channel and the bridge.

The menu offers creative versions of fine-dining standards, such as a tableside Caesar with romaine lettuce and cornbread croutons dressed tableside with a signature dressing, and the Caprese halibut entrée that features pan-seared Alaskan halibut served with parmesan and garlic couscous, rich vodka sauce, and an heirloom tomato and burrata cheese topping.

Living up to its name, the restaurant also offers a range of martinis, including the Grasshopper, a beautiful creation of green crème de-menthe, mint, chocolate, and cream.

8. Papa Leone’s Pizza

For a casual option with stellar views, check out Papa Leone’s Pizza place, located in the English Village near Martini Bay.

Using homemade cheese, dough, and sauce, Papa Leone’s offers popular pizza choices such as veggie, margherita, meat combo, and Mediterranean, along with calzones with pepperoni, salami, mozzarella, and provolone cheese.

Papa Leone’s has a small dining room, but it’s hard to beat its outdoor balcony seating that faces directly toward the London Bridge.

9. Mudshark Brewery And Public House

If a fun happy hour is in order, Havasu’s solar-powered brewery Mudshark Brewery and Public House is the place to find it. Along with its channel view, the brewery offers a full menu of pub classics, such as oven-baked pretzel bites with beer cheese, skillet mac ‘n cheese, and Public House meat lover pizza.

Mudshark also offers a range of local brews, such as the Upriver Light American lager, the Wild Watermelon with a hint of melon, and the Havablue, a crisp and light beer with a burst of blueberry.

Pro Tip: For a picnic option, consider heading to one of Lake Havasu’s plentiful chain fast-food spots, such as In-N-Out Burger, El Pollo Loco, or Wienerschnitzel, and then dine at a table at the spectacular Lake Havasu State Park.The park, conveniently located in the town along the shores of the lake, is known as one of the best spots to catch a sunset. Day-use entrance fees apply.

After 50 years of working, I was ready to break away from the desk and begin my dream of traveling the world.

Two weeks after my retirement, however, I was diagnosed with a rare and incurable disease called Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD). It wasn’t the diagnosis that would prevent me from traveling, although the pain involved would be a hindrance. It was the restricted, low-sodium diet that I was put on.

At first, I thought, “How difficult could that be?” Just cut it down. Then, I realized just how much salt is in, well, everything. I started thinking about travel and what that would mean in terms of savoring the world’s culinary delights. I mean, how in the world could anyone travel and enjoy the cuisine of a region on a restricted diet?

Turns out, I was wrong. It is easier than I thought, but it requires plenty of pre-planning and discipline. With a little advice from my own dietician, Katie Reese MS RDN LD, we’ve come up with eight tips to help you make the proper dietary decisions while not hindering your adventures.

Note: Please remember that everybody’s situation is different. Consult your doctor about implementing any of these tips.

1. Research Your Destination

The main reason we all travel is to discover and learn about different regions in our own country, new and exotic countries, their people, and cultures. Half the fun of traveling is planning the adventure. That planning should not only include researching the attractions and activities you want to participate in, but also the local cuisine.

As Katie tells us, “Educate yourselves on the common ingredients and cooking techniques [in the area you plan to visit.] Even better, reach out to travel agents or people you may know that have traveled to the location you are planning to go and get their feedback.”

Don’t forget to work with your registered dietitian prior to your trip to assist you with your planning. They can help do some of the research for you.

2. Pre-Planning

One of the keys to traveling with a restrictive diet is to try to avoid making quick decisions when choosing where to eat. Of course, this isn’t always possible, but once again, a little pre-planning helps to alleviate the stress of trying to figure it out on the road.

Whenever possible, make reservations at restaurants in advance and ask if they can accommodate your specific dietary needs. Many restaurants are happy to leave out certain ingredients or make small adjustments when preparing dishes on their menu. 

Katie stresses that asking a few key questions about the ingredients and preparation method can be very helpful and educational. 

“Also, choose meals that have more whole food ingredients,” she says. “That can take away the uncertainty of the preparation method and help you feel more confident in your choices.”

If you are doing some long-distance traveling on long-distance flights with meal options, check ahead of time with the airline and find out what specialized options are available. You will be surprised to find that most airlines offer meals suitable for restricted diets and some food allergies. These need to be ordered ahead of time.

Pro Tip: In the end, even with all of the pre-planning you have done, things happen and it is best to consider obtaining travel insurance. Most insurance companies will cover any food-related health issues on your trip.

3. Allergy And Diet Restriction Cards

Carrying an allergy or diet restriction card with you makes it easy to communicate your dietary needs at restaurants when you travel.

A dietary restriction or allergy card is simply a pocket-sized card that lists any food allergies or restrictions you may have. Any registered dietician will be able to help you obtain one but they are easy enough to create yourself.

There are plenty of online resources that have templates for this type of card including the nonprofit allergy website FARE, where you can download a template in multiple languages, fill out your information, print it out, then carry it with you. 

Be sure to carry several cards with you so you have backups, just in case. Keeping those that prepare your meals informed about specific needs can make for a more enjoyable experience for everyone.

4. Learn Key Phrases

In addition to an allergy and diet restriction card in the specific language of the region you are traveling to, if traveling abroad, take the time to learn a few key phrases that describe your restriction in the country’s language. You don’t need to hold a conversation. Learn enough to be able to relate your dietary needs. 

5. Pack Snacks 

It’s one thing to make all the plans for when you arrive at your destination, but what about the trip there on long drives or airline flights? The key is to carry plenty of snacks.

Katie emphasizes how important snacks can be. 

“Relying on snacks available in convenience stores or airports can lead to unhealthy choices and also be a more costly option,” she explains. “By having readily available options, you are less likely to reach for items on the go.”

The key is to have a good variety of snacks on hand, of course, tailored to your specific diet — individual bags of popcorn or crackers, trail mix, dried fruit, etc. For a more filling option — again, modified to your own special needs — opt for small pouches of Nutter Butters paired with sealed bags of pre-cut fruit or an individually wrapped piece of natural cheese.

There are always plenty of beverage choices when flying, but keep in mind that too many carbonated beverages can lead to abdominal discomfort and excess alcohol and caffeine can dehydrate you.

6. Go Vegetarian

Consider eating a vegetarian diet while on the road and seek out restaurants with a vegetarian menu. Many times, this will take the guesswork out of the process. But still be sure to read the menu and ask questions.

7. Keep Your Eyes Open

Once you get to your destination and that restaurant you have been dying to try, when your order arrives, give it a once-over. Things do slip by in the kitchen unintentionally, but it happens. Make sure there are no hidden croutons, unnamed sauces, or anything that looks suspicious that could upend your diet and ruin your vacation. And don’t be afraid to point it out. Most restaurants will gladly correct the error.

The Bottom Line: Be Flexible

Remember, you are planning an adventure to explore and experience the world around you, so be flexible. If you are able and your diet allows a little leeway, allow yourself some freedom to enjoy at least one great meal. On that day, adjust your other meals accordingly to compensate.

The bottom line is not to let your dietary restrictions hinder you from exploring the world. Plan ahead and enjoy!

Learn about some of our other writers’ experiences with new food choices and diets:

• 8 Reasons I’m Grateful In Retirement That I Adopted A Plant-Based Diet
• 5 Reasons We Gain Weight As We Age And 3 Ways To Prevent It
• 6 Changes I’m Making To My Cooking Game So Healthy Eating Isn’t A Punishment

Where there is world-class wine, excellent dining will follow, and the town of Healdsburg is a perfect example. The famous Russian River meanders through this small town in the heart of Sonoma County, California, which is chock full of great restaurants, including several that have earned Michelin stars. This won’t be a budget dining destination, but it will be memorable.

My husband, Jason, and I have had the chance to visit Healdsburg three times over the past 2 years, and we’ve dined at the town’s best-known establishments along with a couple hidden gems. After much exploration, here are the best restaurants we recommend.

A portion of my trip was hosted by the Healdsburg Tourism Improvement District, but all opinions are my own.

1. Barndiva

Right after Barndiva earned a Michelin star in 2021, I tried to snag a reservation and was unsuccessful. A year later, we finally had reservations but were concerned we’d have to cancel due to epic rainstorms in Northern California. Fortunately, we made it to Healdsburg safely and finally had a chance to dine at Barndiva.

Come prepared for a decadent, four-course, seasonal tasting menu featuring sustainably-grown vegetables and locally-sourced meats and fish. After a small bite of amuse bouche, we enjoyed our first course, crudo of Mount Lassen trout. The next round brought us smoky potato soup and egg yolk dumplings. For the third course, I ordered the Maine lobster and Jason had the roasted chicken. To top it all off, we ended with a dessert of Paris Brest, a round flaky pastry filled with hazelnut cream. This was a meal I will long remember.

What To Order At Barndiva

The menu at Barndiva is always changing. Each course has two choices on the menu. If you’re dining with a partner, I suggest selecting one of each so you can sample everything offered. And if you enjoy cocktails, I recommend the Weller Manhattan made with 12-year-old bourbon, vermouth, and Tahitian vanilla.

Pro Tip: Reservations are required at Barndiva since walk-ins are not permitted. If you’ll be visiting on a weekend, it’s necessary to book a couple of weeks in advance.

2. The Matheson’s Roof 106

I’m a sucker for rooftop restaurants and bars, so despite the cold and rainy weather during our recent trip to Healdsburg, I knew we had to try Chef Dustin Valette’s The Matheson’s Roof 106. This might be the best designed rooftop restaurant I’ve ever seen. A generous number of both ceiling fans and heaters are mounted on the patio cover to moderate the temperature for guests’ comfort. But none of that would matter if the food wasn’t good — and it was really good.

Wood-fired pizzas are the star of the show here, which made me nostalgic for Italy. Many have unique ingredient combinations, but for heartier appetites, there are also entrées; although a full meal is not required. Come for a cocktail or glass of wine accompanied by a snack and simply enjoy the view of Healdsburg Plaza.

What To Order At The Matheson’s Roof 106

We recommend starting with the Delicata squash fries, continuing with the Not So “Hawaiian” pizza, and then ordering the whole roasted branzino for your entrée. If you still have room — we did — then end the evening with a warm chocolate and potato chip cookie served with a shot of espresso martini.

Pro Tip: Roof 106 is just one part of this building. Downstairs, you’ll find the Michelin-recommended restaurant The Matheson along with the wine bar and wall, serving 88 wines on tap.

3. Asahi Sushi & Kitchen

Asahi Sushi & Kitchen is currently a hidden gem Japanese restaurant on Healdsburg Avenue, but I don’t imagine it will be one for long. Opened as a takeout-only restaurant during the pandemic, Asahi is now a full-service dining room and sushi bar that locals return to regularly.

The Chef and owner, Nobuyuki Asahi, serves traditional sushi with top-quality fish often sourced from Japan. While you can order sushi rolls, what this restaurant is known for is nigiri and sashimi. Sit at the sushi bar and watch a true master at work.

What To Order At Asahi Sushi & Kitchen

Be brave and let Chef Nobu select your dinner. Known as omakase, this is always the way to go at an exceptional sushi restaurant. And be sure to pair your meal with a bottle of Chenin blanc from Harris Gallery.

Pro Tip: Before dinner, take a few moments to browse through the Harris Gallery across the street. The paintings of father and son team, M.C. and A3L3XZAND3R, are very good. Better yet, stay for a wine tasting in their outdoor tasting room featuring wines made specially for this gallery.

4. Guiso Latin Fusion

During our first visit, Guiso Latin Fusion was also a hidden gem among Healdsburg restaurants, but that’s since changed. Chef Carlos’s Salvadoran- and Caribbean-inspired cuisine has become well known in the region and for good reason. The focus of this tiny restaurant is the open kitchen, where all can watch the chef at work.

What To Order At Guiso Latin Fusion

The paella Caribena is very popular, and Jason and I both enjoyed it. However, in our opinion, the best dish on the menu was the pescado en salsa de coco — a crispy skin fish of the day topped with papaya and coconut emulsion, lime foam, and Thai basil. We ordered a bottle of Santiago Ruiz Rias Baixas to accompany it.

Pro Tip: There is a small outdoor seating space at Guiso’s, but request to sit inside to enjoy the experience of the open kitchen and watch the chef cook.

5. Bravas Bar De Tapas

You can eat your way around the world in Healdsburg, and if you’re craving Spanish or Mediterranean cuisine, Bravas Bar De Tapas on Center St is the place to go. In fact Travel + Leisure named it one of the top 20 tapas restaurants in the United States. And no matter what type of small plates you enjoy — hot or cold — it’s on this menu. If you’d like something more substantial, order the paella for two or four people. There are some local wines on the wine list, but I really appreciated the selection of Spanish wine pairings.

What To Order At Bravas Bar De Tapas

We went with the really traditional tapas dishes like boquerones, patatas bravas, sardines picante, marinated olives, and pan tomate, and all were good. 

Pro Tip: Just a few doors down from Bravas Tapas, check out both SingleThread Farms and Journeymen Meat Co. for authentic and local dining experiences.

6. Costeaux French Bakery

All mornings would be good if they started in a French bakery. Fortunately, Jason and I did just that one morning when we had breakfast at Costeaux French Bakery. This much-lauded, family-owned operation sells a wide range of cakes, breads, and pastries, both in Healdsburg and throughout Sonoma County. In addition to breakfast, the cafe serves lunch every day and brunch on Sunday.

What To Order At Costeaux French Bakery

If you’re looking for a healthy but seriously delicious breakfast, get the avocado toast with pickled red onions and smoked salmon. And be sure to order one of their coffee beverages, which come with a small piece of their sweet and crunchy rugelach.

Pro Tip: If you’re visiting Healdsburg during the holidays, be sure to pop into Costeaux on Healdsburg Ave and see their enormous display of nutcrackers. Hundreds of nutcrackers in all shapes, sizes, and colors adorn the walls.

7. Spoonbar

We had the very good fortune to stay at h2hotel in downtown Healdsburg during our recent trip to Healdsburg, so it was easy to enjoy breakfast at their stylish onsite restaurant, Spoonbar. Whether you opt for breakfast or dinner here, you can expect delicious and seasonal California cuisine.

What To Order At Spoonbar

Be sure to order the chilaquiles with two soft poached eggs, queso fresco, cilantro, and guajillo salsa roja. We’re told this has long been a guest favorite and now we know why.

Pro Tip: Before or after dining at Spoonbar, be sure to appreciate the sculpture Spoonful by Ned Khan, which is located at the entrance to the hotel. Hundreds of espresso spoons were used to craft this peaceful sculpture and water feature.

8. Black Oak Coffee

Anywhere I travel, I seek out independent coffee shops and Black Oak Coffee Roasters fit the bill. The location on the town square means it’s easy to find and within walking distance of many Healdsburg hotels. And judging by how many people greeted one another while entering, Black Oak is a local favorite as well.

The roasting operation has been around since 2012 and prides itself on the ethical sourcing of beans as well as giving back to the community. Their coffee blends include a range of roast levels and include several organic options.

What To Order At Black Oak Coffee

If you’re hungry, get the breakfast burrito; they are tasty and reasonably priced. Jason enjoyed the version with bacon while I opted for the veggie one. Whatever coffee drink you prefer will be done well here.

Pro Tip: After enjoying your coffee, step outside to the small alley adjacent to Black Oak to see a mural from The Monarch Project. If only all alleys looked like this one.

9. Willi’s Seafood & Raw Bar

Jason and I both love seafood, so our second visit to Healdsburg included a great dinner at Willi’s Seafood & Raw Bar. I knew it would be a great evening when I could see the fresh shellfish being prepared right behind our table. 

What To Order At Willi’s Seafood & Raw Bar

We decided to order a variety of their small plates so we could try as many dishes as possible. Definitely order either the yellowtail ceviche or the tuna tartare. If you’re a scallop lover like I am, try the bacon-wrapped scallops too. Finally, we ordered the charred octopus street tacos which are also delicious.

Despite three trips to Healdsburg, I still have several more restaurants to visit. Next time, I hope to dine at Charlie Palmer’s Dry Creek Kitchen, Parish Cafe (known for their fresh baked beignets), and the highly-regarded barbecue restaurant, Kinsmoke. Less than an hour and a half from San Francisco and Napa Valley wine country, see everything there is to do just outside of Healdsburg:

• 9 Fantastic Wineries To Visit In Napa During The Summer 
• How To Spend A Perfect Day On San Francisco’s Spectacular Pier 39
• 9 Unique Food And Dining Experiences I Loved In San Francisco

St. Petersburg, known as “Florida’s Sunshine City,” is the fifth most populated city in Florida and is named after St. Petersburg, Russia. St. Pete is located in the Tampa Bay area and is home to great cultural attractions like the Salvador Dali Museum and the glasswork at the Chihuly Collection.

It is famous for its sandy beaches and spectacular seafood restaurants. I spent most of my time searching for the best seafood in St. Pete. Here are seven of my favorite seafood restaurants in St. Pete, in no particular order.

1. Sea Salt

I don’t know which was more eye-catching, the 80-foot-long raw bar with all sorts of seafood on display with a salt station featuring 130 different flavors of salt from around the world or the 22-foot-tall glass-enclosed wine cellar showcasing 4,000 bottles of wine, right in the middle of the restaurant. The award-winning Sea Salt is in the historic downtown area at the Sundial Shopping Center and is known for the freshest seafood.

Chef Fabrizio Aielli from Venice showcases fine dining in a stunning and elegant space, employing organic, seasonal, and sustainable ingredients that change daily. The presentation is unique and simple, yet memorable.

What To Order At Sea Salt

Our dinner began with extra-virgin olive oil, three worldly salts, and a selection of bread. We all ordered a second serving; it was so good.

I loved the artichoke Caesar salad with roasted tomato confit, shaved parmesan, anchovy, and house croutons. The fried artichokes added a unique, earthy touch.

We dove into the raw bar platter featuring oysters on the half-shell, jumbo shrimp, a chilled Maine lobster tail, and Florida stone crab claws. I haven’t eaten stone crab claws in years; these were the freshest I have ever tasted.

I savored the diver scallops served with eggplant caponata, a saba wine reduction, and wild rice pilaf for my main course. Others at the table raved about the Florida red snapper with mascarpone polenta and seasonal vegetables and the crab-crusted grouper with lump crab, spaghetti squash, onions, and spinach.

Pro Tip: Order Chef Aielli’s Sea Salt cookbook, featuring 75 specially chosen recipes reflecting his award-winning culinary career.

2. Taverna Costale

Taverna Costale is a rustic Italian eatery in downtown St. Pete serving pizzas, pasta, and signature coastal seafood dishes in an elegant interior with a casual vibe.

Chef Fabio Viviani is known for hand-crafted cuisine made from classic recipes that have been around for years.

What To Order At Taverna Costale

Allow your server to help you pair an excellent wine with your main course, like a glass of Austin Hope Cabernet Sauvignon from Paso Roble, California.

I started with the Mediterranean salad, with butter lettuce, olives, shaved fennel, feta, pickled red onion, roasted red peppers, and a red wine vinaigrette, melding the Italian flavors.

My main course was cioppino, with lobster tomato broth, clams, mussels, shrimp, calamari, fish, garlic, and grilled bread. Oh, my goodness, it was savory. I rate it with the cioppino I ordered at the San Francisco Wharf.

Others in the group touted the rigatoni Bolognese, a rich beef ragu, stracciatella, parmesan cheeses, and the grilled swordfish piccata served with wilted spinach and lemon caper butter.

Pro Tip: Don’t pass up the limoncello cake with berry compote and crumbled meringue for dessert.

3. Ford’s Garage

Ford’s Garage is a neighborhood joint specializing in comfort food, prime burgers, and craft beer. With a Prohibition vibe of a 1920s gas station with vintage Ford vehicles, gas pumps, and old brick and unique wood décor, Ford’s Garage boasts a hammered copper bar where servers in auto shop uniforms pass out American craft beer, wine, and cocktails. Interestingly, this is the only restaurant group with the right to use the Ford Motor Company logo.

What To Order At Ford’s Garage

Shop from a list of 36 American draft beers like a 3 Daughters Beach Blonde Ale or Cigar City Maduro Brown Ale with chocolate, brown sugar, and coffee flavors. It’s hard to pick one from the bottles and cans list of 68 craft beers. Wines and cocktails are also available.

Ford’s Garage is famous for the gourmet burger made with Black Angus beef, turkey, chicken, or vegetarian products, aged cheeses, and gourmet toppings.

For starters, select the onion rings, Ford’s fried pickles, or buffalo chicken dip with chips.

I went for Ford’s signature burger, served with sharp cheddar, applewood smoked bacon, bourbon barbecue sauce, and a brioche bun with lettuce, tomato, and red onion.

Or try the grilled chicken cobb salad with hefty portions of mixed greens, chopped bacon, hard-boiled egg, cherry tomatoes, avocado, and crumbled Gorgonzola.

You can’t go wrong with the comfort foods here — beer-battered fish and chips, Mama Ford’s homemade meatloaf, or barbecue pork ribs.

Pro Tip: Go for the shakes, Key lime pie, or molten lava cake for dessert.

You’ll find multiple southeast franchise locations — Ford’s Garage is a winner! 

4. Doc Ford’s Rum Bar And Grille

I loved the funky character of Doc Ford’s Rum Bar and Grille at the base of the downtown St. Pete Pier, with stunning views of downtown St. Pete and Tampa Bay.   Whether you choose indoor or outdoor seating, incredible water views surround you. You’ll find great Caribbean flavors, the freshest local seafood, and the best service.

Curious about the literary ties? One of the restaurant group’s owners, Randy Wayne White, has written 26 mystery novels about Doc Ford. You’ll notice how the menu ties into references in the books.

What To Order At Doc Ford’s

Kick it off with a Rum Sanibel Sunset or Pier Pressure with rum, raspberry liquor, ginger beer, and pineapple juice.

Doc’s Yucatan Bloody Mary is almost a meal, topped with two shrimp, pickled green beans, olives, lime, and a pickle.

For flatbreads, try the Shrimp Scampi — spinach and artichoke with piles of Roma tomato sauce, garlic, and mozzarella cheese. I enjoyed the Captiva crab cakes served with jicama coleslaw. Yummy!

We shared the mussels in garlic, shallots, Roma tomatoes, fresh basil, and white zinfandel buttery sauce.

Gluten-free selections are available.

Pro Tip: Don’t skip dessert! Enjoy the Key lime pie or the double-decker brownie with vanilla ice cream, chocolate rum sauce, and nuts.

Three other locations include Sanibel Island, Ft. Myers Beach, and Jungle Terrace in St. Pete.

5. Ceviche Tapas Bar And Restaurant

Bright turquoise accents and a Barcelona inspiration offer a great place to meet and share plates created by Executive Chef Horasio Salgado at Ceviche Tapas Bar and Restaurant.

Start with a sangria, famous at Ceviche for over 20 years, and add a reserve brandy and orange liqueur or a Barca Nona served with rum, bourbon, coffee, and smoke.

What To Order At Ceviche Tapas Bar and Restaurant

With five varieties of ceviche, go with the Casa Ceviche — shrimp, scallops, squid, and fish with tomatoes, onions, peppers, and cilantro.

Try the tuna tartare with coconut milk, lime, ginger, avocado, and chives.

They offer four paella choices; I indulged in the Mariscos, lobster, scallops, shrimp, squid, mussels, chorizo, and Valencia rice.

Tapas Tuesday features sangria, ceviche casa, deviled eggs, queso de cabra, spicy goat cheese, and tomato sauce.

6. Bella Brava New World Trattoria

Bella Brava is an Italian-style eatery crafting authentic Italian food from old-world recipes. You’ll enjoy indoor and outdoor spaces with local resources, fresh ingredients, and quality products, Italian style.

Start with a house-made sangria, an Italian mule with vodka, limoncello, ginger beer, or a glass of wine from an extensive curated list.

What To Order At Bella Brava

The Rhode Island Calamari gets the ball rolling with delicious pomodoro sauce, peppers, arugula, and lemon caper aioli.

I chose the seafood fra diavolo, with squid ink pasta, Gulf shrimp, bay scallops, clams, mussels, San Marzano tomatoes, basil, and pecorino — perfect Italian seafood.

The wood-fired pizza Margherita with tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, and basil hits the spot for pizza lovers.

Pro Tip: For dessert, don’t pass up the Italian cannoli.

7. Gratzzi Italian Grille

Voted “Best Italian Restaurant” in St. Petersburg in the St. Petersburg Foodies Restaurant Awards, Gratzzi Italian Grille is a family-owned and operated neighborhood fine-dining Italian restaurant. Enjoy classic Italian entrees, pizza bar selections, and delicious pesto-parmesan risotto.

What To Order At Gratzzi Italian Grille

Start with the Escargot Antonio, the chef’s specialty, with shallots, cremini mushrooms, roasted red peppers, garlic, and herbs, in a fresh tomato cream sauce.

I ordered the veal saltimbocca with prosciutto, shallots, mushrooms, fontina cheese, and wilted spinach. So tender!

The shrimp arrabbiata, pan-sauteed with garlic, fresh tomatoes, hot peppers, and scallions, met with rave reviews.

You’ll find outstanding gourmet pizzas, Sicilian stromboli, and authentic calzones.

A prix-fixe Early Dinner Menu offers six main courses, including ciabatta bread, salad, pasta e fagioli soup, and chef’s dessert.

Pro Tip: Don’t pass up authentic cannoli or tiramisu for dessert.

Have you ever wanted to go on holiday for the sole purpose of eating? I have! For me, food is an integral part of any holiday, just as important, perhaps more so, than my accommodations. Some people plan their itineraries around famous or historical sights, but foodies prefer to research which cities have the best food to enhance our overall travel experience. For serious flavor hunters, going on a holiday is the perfect chance to seek out truly memorable meals.

Europe is home to so many different cultures and cuisines, and has so many incredibly diverse options for dining, that it almost feels impossible to choose the best cities for food. Luckily, there are a few cities that stand out. I’ve given this a lot of thought and, in no particular order, share my favorite food destinations in Europe. So, eat your heart out!

1. Bologna, Italy

I could fill this entire list with Italian cities. But in the heart of Italy is one of Europe’s best-kept foodie secrets: Bologna. Italians affectionately refer to Bologna as La Grassa, “the Fat One,” so leave your diet at home and prepare to indulge…

Parmesan Cheese, Balsamic Vinegar, Prosciutto, And Ragu

The region is home to more than 40 protected Denominazione Origine Protetta (DOP) products, including mortadella, Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, balsamic vinegar, and prosciutto de Parma. This is definitely the place to linger over antipasti platters of cured meats and cheeses.

Quintessential Bolognese specialties include tortellini, tagliatelli, and the meat ragu we commonly refer to as Bolognese (though residents of Bologna do not), and with over 100 gelaterias in the city, you have endless delicious options to choose from. With countless trattorias serving up traditional pastas and wine cheaper than water, it’s no surprise that Bologna has been crowned the gastronomic capital of Italy.

Walking around Bologna, you’ll discover many sfoglinas, women who make pasta by hand. Tortellini al Ragu and Lasagna al Ragu are two of my favorite dishes to eat here. The ragu, made with a mix of pork and beef, is cooked for hours with wine, vegetables, and tomatoes resulting in a delicious, rich, flavourful sauce.

Another favorite is Tortellini in Brood, tiny squares of pasta stuffed with a pork filling and shaped into a small, hat-like pasta shape, which is eaten with a meat-based broth and topped off with parmesan cheese.

Mercato Di Mezzo: A Must-Stop For Coffee And Lardo Pesto

Mercato di Mezzo (Middle Market) is a covered market offering local food and wine products in the center of Bologna. There has been a market in this spot since the Middle Ages and it’s open every day. The market is located in the middle of a dense network of narrow pedestrian streets known as the Quadrilatero.

Together with the market, this roughly square-shaped area has been the center of food commerce in Bologna for centuries. There are seemingly endless food shops to browse in, as well as cafes and bars where you can sit down to try local snacks, like Lardo Pesto, a sandwich of tigelle bread (a flatbread not dissimilar from an English muffin) filled with lard, garlic, and rosemary — it’s a lot better than it sounds!

Pro Tip: You can take a day trip to Modena for a Balsamic Vinegar tasting or to the countryside near Parma to see how Parmesan cheese is made — I recommend both! 

2. Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen is an unassuming destination for food. The city, known for its minimalist style, high standard of living, and for being one of the happiest places on earth, also has an incredibly vibrant food scene. A few years ago, the capital city of Denmark was famous primarily for its statue of the Little Mermaid and its beautiful location by the sea, but now it’s on the foodie radar for its 15 Michelin-starred restaurants — an incredible concentration of culinary talent in such a small city.

The New Nordic Movement

Copenhagen’s reputation as a fine dining destination has really only emerged in the past decade or so, especially as the New Nordic movement transformed the local restaurant scene.

In 2004, Danish culinary entrepreneur Claus Meyer gathered together 12 visionary chefs from Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Iceland, Greenland, Faroe Island, and Finland, and together they created a culinary manifesto to guide their cuisine, based on a commitment to organic, sustainable, and local produce. The simple yet innovative style quickly took off. In recent years, many affordable New Nordic options have appeared, and you can seek out delicious local specialties without breaking the bank.

Smorrebrod And Danish Hotdogs

For lunch, look for something that is typical to Denmark: open-faced sandwiches known as smorrebrod, typically served on rye bread and topped with a rainbow of ingredients like herring, meats, or vegetables. Alternatively, grab a Danish hotdog, topped with fried onions and pickles. The best hot dogs on the streets of Copenhagen are said to be from DØP, an organic hot dog stand.

Wienerbrød (AKA Danishes) And Other Next-Level Pastries

The pastry scene in Copenhagen is also next level. From Wienerbrød (called Danishes in the U.S.) filled with cream and topped with an almond-flavored frosting to cardamom buns and cinnamon buns topped with chocolate, you really can’t go wrong with the pastries in Denmark.

Copenhagen Food Tour And Restaurant Recommendations

For a really memorable dining experience, two special Copenhagen restaurants to check out are Restaurant AOC and Geranium, they may be a little less famous than some of the other fine dining establishments in town but both offer one-of-a-kind dining experiences.

Pro Tip: You can master the art of Danish pastry making during a 3-hour tour or take a tour of the best food stands in Copenhagen, where you can sample a range of Danish and Nordic specialties.

3. Lyon, France

Lyon is often hailed as the gastronomic capital of France. It was the center of the French nouvelle cuisine movement, pioneered by legendary chef Paul Bocuse (1926–2018), who aimed to lighten up French cooking, both in terms of calories and pretention. The late chef owned several restaurants in Lyon, the most famous being l’Auberge du Pont de Collonges, a two-star Michelin restaurant where you can still eat if you book far enough in advance. Bocuse inspired the whole of Lyon to a higher standard of food, and there are fantastic restaurants, in great locations, serving some of the best food in the region.

Rue Saint-Jean’s Authentic Bouchons

If you want to splurge, there are 21 Michelin-starred restaurants to choose from in Lyon. But traditional local restaurants, known as bouchons, offer great value. The best are officially recognized by the Chamber of Commerce and easily identified by a seal in their windows. Bouchons aren’t like typical, stuffy, expensive French restaurants. Here you can expect to find French comfort food like gratin, sausages, French onion soup, locally sourced pork and beef, and traditional salads. There are only about 20 authentic bouchons, the loveliest of which can be found on rue Saint-Jean — grab a table at any of them and order coq au vin and cardon au gratin (cardon is a relative of the artichoke family).

Lyon’s Open-Air Markets

Open-air markets offer another opportunity for inexpensive dining. Stalls are stacked with glorious fruit and vegetables, delicious sausages, and the freshest of fish. Try Saint-Antoine for an old-school French market day or Les Halles, with its 48 vendors spread over three floors. 

Local specialties include

• salade Lyonnaise (topped with bacon and a fried egg)
• oval-shaped quenelle dumplings in seafood sauce,
• sausage and charcuterie that make use of every inch of the pig
• Beaujolais nouveau wine

Fun Fact: Due to its geographical location, Lyon is a melting pot of French gastronomy combining ingredients from all around France. With over 4,000 restaurants in the city, you are guaranteed to eat well in Lyon.

4. San Sebastian, Spain

Tapas Bars And Michelin Stars

Whether or not you’ve heard of San Sebastian, the one thing you definitely need to know about this Spanish coastal city is that its food scene is incredible. Boasting 11 Michelin-star restaurants (three of which have three stars) and countless tapas bars, this Northern Spanish city is considered one of the gastronomic capitals of Europe and an absolute paradise for food lovers.

At the top end of the spectrum, there’s Mugaritz, consistently in the top 10 on the list of the World’s 50 Best Restaurants and known for its highly experimental molecular gastronomy. The restaurant typically closes for 4 months each year so its team can recharge and prepare an entirely new menu for the next season, so you’ll need to plan your travels well in advance if you want to dine here.

Another, less well-known but no less fantastic San Sebastian restaurant is Akelarre, one of the few three Michelin star restaurants in the world that also has its own hotel.

Basque-Style Pintxos Bars

San Sebastian may have more Michelin stars per square foot than any other city in Europe, but those wanting a more casual (and cheaper!) dining experience need look no further than one of the city’s many charming pintxos bars. Pintxos is the Basque style of tapas, and the region’s true culinary claim to fame. Each little morsel is served on a stick, and it’s customary to limit yourself to just a couple at one bar before moving on.

Pintxos specialties, local to San Sebastian, include

• slow-cooked veal cheeks
• pimientos di padron (fried long green peppers)
• bacalao (salt cod)
• gilda, made with anchovy, olive, and hot pepper.

Most bars also have their own specialty, which is often served hot and made to order, so be sure to check what the locals are eating or ask your bartender what else is available. Wash down your selections with the local effervescent, txakoli wine, which has hints of citrus and green apple: the perfect accompaniment to San Sebastian’s beautiful seafood, straight from the Bay of Biscay.

Pro Tip: Another not-to-be-missed experience is a visit to a cider house, where the drinks are typically served alongside a set menu of salt cod omelet, cod with roasted peppers, aged beef, and local cheese. I recommend Txirrita Sagardotegia in the center of San Sebastian.

Following your stomach isn’t always the best advice in life, but a holiday built around food can be the perfect way to experience a country and a culture. I hope you’ll give some of my suggestions a try on your next European vacation. For more foodie inspiration, consider

• 9 Great Places To Eat In Taipei
• There Are Only 2 Certified Cities Of Gastronomy In The U.S. — Here’s Where, And Why You Should Eat In Both
• My 14 Absolute Favorite Meals I’ve Had On Vacation

If you’re looking for an amazing winery near Washington, D.C., The Winery at Bull Run should be at the top of your list. With its unique combination of Virginia wine and history, this incredible winery offers something for everyone who loves to explore and experience culture through their palates.

The Winery at Bull Run is just an hour from the nation’s capital in Centreville, Virginia, and is named after the Civil War battle fought nearby in 1861. Opening in 2012, this winery has been crafting some of the finest Virginia wines for over a decade, paired with unforgettable experiences. 

They offer several tour options that cater to all types of guests, from history buffs wanting a comprehensive look at their past to oenophiles looking for an extensive tasting tour.

Visit Fairfax and The Winery at Bull Run hosted our visit. All opinions are my own. 

Grapes

The Winery at Bull Run continues to honor its historical roots while striving to craft some of Virginia’s finest wines made with Norton grapes grown onsite and by other local farmers in Virginia. 

Prized among wine lovers and considered America’s true native grape, the Norton grape is used in many of the wines made at The Winery at Bull Run. Dr. Daniel Norton developed the Norton hybrid grape that grows well in the eastern and midwest states.

Variety Of Wines

Bull Run Winery has an impressive selection of wines made with both traditional and modern techniques. You can choose from sparkling whites like the 2019 Barrel Select Chardonnay or dry reds like the 2019 Antebellum or the Reconciliation 2020. Most of these unique blends are made with locally-grown grapes, ensuring that each sip will be full of flavor and character. My favorite was the 2021 Delaney. I loved the blue bottle.

Tasting Room And Patio

The tasting room at Bull Run Winery offers a cozy atmosphere indoors with plenty of outdoor seating. Group reservations are available. Reservations are optional when visiting if your group is 12 guests or less. Walk-ins are always welcome. 

Inside, guests can relax by the fireplace and sample wines from Virginia’s Piedmont region. A full line of cocktails, beer, and cider is also available. There is often live music to enjoy while tasting. A giant mural is behind the tasting bar and other civil war relics are around the room.

The outdoor area is covered in ivy, creating a tranquil setting for wine tasters to enjoy their drinks without worrying about the summer or winter weather. All winery seating options are first-come, first-served for all areas.

Note: They do not permit pets or outside food in these areas. Food is available from the on-site food trucks.

Pro Tip: They do have private tastings. Reservations are required and you must have at least eight guests to reserve a private tasting. 

The Grounds

There are two lawn areas outdoors for use when weather permits. One is for families, and the other area is for adults only. Both lawns overlook the vineyards and feature picnic tables and lots of room to roam around and enjoy nature. 

You must be over 21 years old to enter the Adult Lawn section. Children must be supervised in the Family Lawn section. You can bring outside food into both the Adult Lawn & Family Lawn areas, but no outside beverages or coolers. 

Tours

They offer several tour options that cater to all types of guests, from history buffs wanting a comprehensive look at their past to oenophiles looking for a delicious production and tasting tour. 

The great thing is each of the tours includes four wine tastings. With each tour and tasting, you receive a complimentary engraved wine glass. Reservations are required and a fee is charged for each tour. Currently, tours are only available on Saturday and Sunday. Check their website for times. 

When we visited, we did all three tours on the same day. I don’t recommend that because it was more wine-tasting than desired for one day. But I wanted to see everything, so drinking a little extra wine was the price I had to pay. 

Past To Present: Historical Tour

The winery offers a historical tour that brings to life Virginia’s rich history of winemaking. Learn about how the area’s unique soil composition affects the flavor and quality of its wines as you walk the hallowed grounds and discuss Civil War battles. Learn about the history, the Hillwood Estate, the vineyards, and the happenings at the farm winery.

I enjoyed seeing the photo opportunities and historic grounds when we took this tour. Tasting the wine was enjoyable too.

Note: Most of this tour is outside on the grounds and includes considerable walking on sometimes uneven ground.

Witness To History: Museum Tour

Witness To History is a one-hour walking tour with a personal guide that takes you through their Civil War Museum to view over 200,000 artifacts. It was interesting to learn the stories of the local Civil War soldiers and the personal side of battles that took place on the grounds and in nearby areas. 

I loved seeing so many items saved from the Civil War. They have a collection of over 60,000 shells that were dropped in the area when soldiers were forced to move quickly. They simply dropped the ammunition that would slow them down and moved on. Uniforms, guns, and cannonballs are a few other items you will find in the collection. 

Note: There is minimal walking, and it is inside.

Grape To Glass: Production Tour

Get an exclusive glimpse into the entire process that goes into making a bottle of world-class wine. Take a one-hour guided Grape to Glass: Production Tour through their vineyards and learn about grape selection and harvesting through barrel aging and bottling. Throughout the tour, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to sample select wines.

I enjoyed learning about the crush pad and state-of-the-art production barn.

Note: This tour involves extensive walking both outdoors and indoors. 

Entertainment And Events

There is never a dull moment at The Winery at Bull Run. Often when you visit, there will be live music for your enjoyment. When we visited in February, we enjoyed a local musician playing the guitar and singing popular songs in the middle of the afternoon.

In addition to tours and tastings, the Bull Run Winery hosts events throughout the year ranging from comedy shows to seasonal celebrations. 

While we were there, they had a Cookie and Wine Pairing Event. Attendees could enjoy their special edition wine tasting paired with fan-favorite cookies. 

Other upcoming events include a barrel tasting, St. Patty’s Day Comedy Show, Friday Flight Nights, and trivia nights. Check out their event calendar for additional information.

History

King Charles II of England granted the winery’s property as part of the Northern Neck Proprietary to Lord Fairfax in 1649. The property was divided up and parcels were sold. The area has been home to vineyards since 1799, although it wasn’t until 2012 that a new modern-day winery was opened on the same land. 

The Winery at Bull Run sits next to over 5,000 acres of the historic Manassas National Battlefield Park, where the Battle of Bull Run occurred. The house that once stood on the Bull Run property was known as Hillwood and was used as a hospital during the civil war battles. War relics such as bullets with teeth marks and syringes were found at the site. 

The Hillwood property changed hands multiple times through the years. It sat vacant for 18 years until the current owner, Jon Hickox, purchased 21 acres, including the Hillwood house. The purchase was the first step in establishing a family farm-oriented winery in honor of his ancestors and former property owners. 

Shortly after the purchase, he removed the remaining walls of the rundown house, leaving the old foundation for visitors to see. Then, he began work on the winery.

I’ve traveled around Greece many times and I’ve tried many Greek wines, but for some reason, once I’m back home, I don’t often follow up to buy any. I’m unsure why, because Greek wines are really good, but they just don’t seem as popular as those from Italy, France, and even Spain. Greek wine perhaps suffered in the past from a preconceived idea of it being cheaper, or not as “fine.” But if that was ever true at all, it certainly isn’t now.

If you haven’t tried Greek wine before, you’re in for a treat, and if you’ve already dipped your toes, here are some suggestions to get you trying a few more. I’ve started buying more at home and I’ll definitely be buying more Greek wines from now on.

1. Vidiano, Iliana Malihin

There are few things I love more than discovering a new grape, and when it’s a heritage grape from a specific location being brought back to life, I love it even more. The vidiano grape is indigenous to the island of Crete, where winemaker Iliana Malihin lives. She’s a dynamic winemaker who’s determined to make vidiano great again. With this white wine, she’s definitely on the right track. Flavors of peach, pear, and melon all come through in this vibrant wine. It pairs beautifully with a Greek salad, though, this is an intense wine and makes great for an evening meal rather than at lunchtime.

‘Wild Ferment’ Assyrtiko, Gaia Wines

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2. ‘Wild Ferment’ Assyrtiko, Gaia Wines

The Assyriko vineyard is located in beautiful Santorini, where the vineyards date back 3,000 years. This one has been here since 1994, so there’s a lot of history and experience going into these wines. The ‘wild ferment’ Assyrtiko is so named because it’s a minimal-contact wine. It is left with skin contact for 12 hours; is an oaky, smokey wine; and is quite minerally, but with a tangy finish that makes it great for an evening with friends. I wouldn’t choose this one at lunch, but paired with a seafood meal, and with chocolate, it’s a wine with great depth that’s interesting and quite unique.

3. Malagousia PGI Epanomi 2022

The location of the Ktima Gerovassiliou vineyard, near the popular city of Thessaloniki in Macedonia, is pretty perfect. This vineyard has been here since 1981, slowly building a reputation for producing great wines, and with such close proximity to the city, the wines don’t have to travel far to be enjoyed at their absolute best. The malagousia grape is indigenous to this area and this wine is an aromatic white with hints of jasmine and some spiciness. For a pretty intense wine, it’s surprisingly refreshing. It pairs great with any chicken dish.

Akra Chryssos, Santorini White Blend

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4. Akra Chryssos, Santorini White Blend

Wines from the island of Santorini are very popular at the moment, but producers from such a small island can only produce so much. So Akkra Chryssos, and other wines from Santorini, are in short supply, which only makes them more desirable. Some of the vines on this island date back 200 years, so there’s a lot of history in the winemaking here. It is a blend, but the assyrtiko grape is dominant and it’s a punchy white with a mature taste of lemon, apple, quince, and a smokey tone that almost tastes like the rocks on the island. It pairs perfectly with any fish dish, especially mackerel.

Akrathos, Assyrtiko 2019

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5. Akrathos, Assyrtiko 2019

This is a relatively new vineyard, only being realized in 2007 in Halkidiki. As you’d expect from a young winery, the process is very low-interference, and the winemaking is kept as natural, and as close to how wine has always been made in this region, as possible. This crisp white wine has a really long finish. Assyrtiko is citrussy with definite notes of lemon and it pairs beautifully with any pasta dish. It’s a high-alcohol white wine; personally, I’d choose to drink it in the evening, but a small glass with lunch is very memorable.

Koutsogiannopoulos, Assyrtiko, Ksera Homata

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6. Koutsogiannopoulos, Assyrtiko, Ksera Homata

This incredible white wine is one of those you should have on a wish list of wines that are hard to find but so worth the effort if you do find them. The vines at this vineyard in Santorini are old and gnarly and clearly have special powers. It could also be the soil in Santorini, of course, which is volcanic, that gives Ksera Homata its earthy tones. The finish is zesty and citrusy, and this must-try wine is perfect when paired with a fish dish. The taste goes especially well with any fish prepared with Mediterranean flavors and herbs.

7. Vidiano, Idaia Winery, Dafnes

Grown from grapes in a vineyard in Dafnes, Heraklion, on the island of Crete, this white wine is a delicate dry wine that truly tastes of the sea. The vidiano grape is indigenous to Crete, as I already mentioned, and in this wine, the grape somehow reminds you of being on the island when you drink it. The husband-and-wife team who make these wines are passionate about maintaining the heritage of winemaking on the island, and they definitely succeed with this one. If you’ve never tried this grape before, this wine is the perfect introduction to it. It tastes of melon and peach, but it has an aromatic finish that gives it great depth. The dryness of this wine makes it the perfect pairing with any pasta dish. Personally, I like it with Greek meatballs. 

Moraitico Island’s Rose 2021

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8. Moraitico Island’s Rose 2021

Produced on the island of Paros, Moraitico Island’s Rose is a light wine that’s slightly sweet but also citrusy. It brings flavors of grapefruit and melon to the forefront when you drink it. The moraitico grape almost went extinct until it was rescued in the 1970s and nurtured back to life, which only makes this wine feel more special. It’s now enjoying a resurgence in popularity in Greece and recently further afield too. It’s a very low-intervention wine that’s perfect with any tuna or lobster dish. I would definitely choose this one for a light lunch, as it’s lower in alcohol and is very refreshing.

Methymnaeos Orange 2021

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9. Methymnaeos Orange 2021

This is a very individual orange wine made from the chidiriotiko grape found in the eastern part of the island of Lesvos. The Methymnaeos Orange is another wine that’s not so easy to find, but it’s well worth putting on your list of must-tries. It’s a minerally wine, due to the volcanic soil of the island, and also has a hint of marmalade. It’s unusual, and if you do find it, get more than one bottle as it’s certainly going to become rare. The hint of marmalade makes it a great wine to pair with lamb dishes, very popular in Greece, but it also goes especially well with chocolate desserts, particularly rich and bitter chocolate.

10. Thymiopoulos Xinomavro 2019

The Thymiopoulos winery has been at the foot of the Vermio Mountain in the village of Trilofos, Macedonia, for generations, and there’s a wealth of experience going into winemaking here. This bold red has a lot of character and the flavors of black olive and red fruits come through strongly. Xinomavro pairs perfectly with red meat, as you might expect, but a small glass is also perfect as an aperitif. It’s quite pale in color for such a rich red, but don’t be fooled, this wine is no pushover, and it’s bolder than its color suggests.

11. Domaine Economou, Sitia Antigone

This one is extremely difficult to find outside of Greece, but it’s almost worth the trip alone! The Liatiko vines are only found in Crete, making Sitia Antigone pretty rare to begin with. But on top of that, winemaker Giannis Economou makes his wines limited edition, which means once he’s sold them, it’s a case of tracking one down in a wine shop or restaurant. It’s hard to put your finger on the flavors of this wine. It’s complicated, which I love, but whatever you’re getting from it when you drink it, it’s a truly great wine. I could drink this wine with anything, and easily on its own, but it goes especially well with any mushroom dish. If you can find it, well done, and make sure you buy a case!

Papagiannakos, Erythros

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12. Papagiannakos, Erythros

I’m aware that some of the wines on my list are hard to find and quite expensive, but this one is much easier to locate and much more affordable. Papagiannakos is produced in the Peloponnese region of Greece and is a rich red that contains 70 percent agiorgitiko grape and 30 percent cabernet sauvignon. It’s very fruity, but you can also pick up some spiciness with a definite hint of star anise. It’s not a heavy wine, though it has lots of flavor, and it’s great to drink with friends in the evening, or with a starter of pate during your evening meal.

Related Reading:

• 6 Amazing Lesser-Known Experiences In Athens, Greece
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Cou-cou and flying fish. Cutters, pudding, and souse. These typically Bajan dishes sound intriguing and taste fantastic, especially after an energetic day touring Barbados’ fascinating capital, Bridgetown, where history comes at you from all angles, or its beautiful botanical gardens, or just after a day lazing on the beach. You can work up an appetite sitting there watching those turquoise-colored waves coming toward you.

Bajan cuisine, it should come as no surprise, is largely based on what comes from the ocean. Fish and seafood with local Caribbean flavors and some British influences are what I see on most menus, but also contemporary international dishes. I’ve taken many trips to this efficient and friendly Caribbean island with family or friends, and have culled a list of favorite places after lots of tasty research.

1. Oistins

At Oistins, in Christ Church, on a southern stretch of the island, Friday night is the place to be, with tourists and locals, young and old, rich and poor, posh types and surfer dudes, all coming together to party and dance to this year’s Crop Over (Barbados’ annual carnival) hits, after a meal of freshly caught fish from one of Oistins many open-air food shacks.

What To Order

Everyone has their favorite fish shack and favorite fish — choose from flying fish, marlin, mahi-mahi, or swordfish to give you an idea. I take after the locals and always order flying fish, with one or two (or more) sides, such as macaroni pie, rice, and peas or coleslaw. Then I wash it down with a bottle of Banks Beer and start dancing. The atmosphere is fantastic and this experience shouldn’t be missed.

Pro Tip: Wear comfortable shoes. Even if you think you aren’t going to be dancing, you’ll likely jump up and start once the music gets going. This is not the best evening for wearing heels.

2. The Cliff

If you have a celebration to mark, or are just looking to dine at one of the island’s swishest restaurants, book a table at The Cliff. Its setting is nothing less than wow-inducing — as its name suggests, the Cliff is elevated with a sweeping, almost 360-degree view of the ocean. 

The restaurant has recently been refurbished but the gourmet menu still has some of my favorite classics such as Tournedos Rossini and Dover sole, as well as inventive fare; I longingly recall a delicious red snapper bouillabaisse with squid linguine. Everything is expertly executed and beautifully presented. To share a bottle of wine from the fine wine card and dine on such gourmet fare while watching the sunset over the sea… ahh… I also like to come for a nice long lunch.

What To Order

The lobster Louie salad and calamari steak are favorites and a little lighter on the wallet with a daytime version of the same breathtaking view.

3. Cutters Deli

Cutters is the Bajan term for hoagies; at this little yellow hut on Crane Beach, that’s a local favorite. The cutters are made with homemade salt bread and filled with the island’s favorite flying fish. The affable owner, Roger Goddard, has made Cutters a truly fun place to hang out. However, sometimes I really can’t get up from the pink sand beach, even to go for lunch. Cutters to the rescue.

What To Order

The deli delivers sandwiches, delectable pumpkin fritters, rum punch, and other menu items right to your chaise on the beach!

4. Primo At The Gap

St. Lawrence Gap, a small strip on the south coast in the parish of Christ Church, is buzzing with fish restaurants. I like Primo. It is on the site of the former Pisces restaurant, which I also used to like. Primo is under new ownership with a new menu but the same water’s edge view. It’s also a great spot to come for cocktails and appetizers to share with friends. I try to snag one of the coveted beachside tables and then dine with soft waves lapping at our feet.

What To Order

Order either the Cajun-blackened chicken or Lebanese-spiced barracuda.

5. Zen Restaurant

For something a little different, I like to go to Zen Restaurant at the Crane Hotel on the island’s west coast. Here’s another spectacular setting; the restaurant overlooks the pink sand of Crane Beach with outdoor seating or through floor-to-ceiling glass windows. The Bajan staff wear kimonos as uniforms, which makes me feel like they are forcing the theme. They don’t have to.

What To Order

The sushi is first-rate. They also feature delicious Thai dishes on the menu.

6. Tiami Luncheon Catamaran Cruise

If someone asks me, “Quick, what’s your best memory of Barbados?” It would be this: a five-star day-at-sea cruise with lunch served onboard. There are a few outfitters who offer this on the island. I’ve been out with Tiami and found their cruise faultless. Their custom-built catamarans are elegant and comfortable — the cruise takes you along the West Coast in real style. 

The trip includes stops for swims in the warm-as-a-bath sea (either jump in or climb the ladder down) and swimming with the turtles. The boat is accessible for those with mobility issues, though it might be harder to get into the water for a swim. Just watching the waves and giant turtles from a shaded part of the boat is wonderful too. Then there’s lunch, which is set up by the wonderful crew while you’re basking in the Caribbean air. 

What To Order

Choose your favorites from a hearty and fresh buffet with salads, seafood, and all the rum punch you can drink before heading back along the Platinum Coast.

7. The Fish Pot 

Locals tend to talk about the South Coast versus the West Coast, but it’s certainly worth exploring other regions’ hidden corners. Tucked away on the northwest part of the island near the sleep-fishing village of St. Lucy is the charming Little Good Harbour inn. There is also a fantastic atmosphere-filled but casual restaurant called the Fish Pot. It’s located on the site of a 17th-century fort. 

The fantastic menu includes the fresh fish and seafood that you come to expect, but also contemporary dishes, such as a delicious saffron roast cauliflower. Fresh seafood and fresh fish is one of the things I most look forward to when I am heading to the Caribbean. However, after a few days I have to admit I need a break, so I like that there are veggie offerings. Before or after lunch you can enjoy the beach and the reef-bordered swimming area. Make it a day. Like many restaurants on the island, it’s open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

What To Order

Fresh fish and saffron-roasted cauliflower.

8. The Farm House Café  

The Farm House Café is the restaurant onsite at PEG farms, an organic and biodynamic farm and nature reserve in the Parish of St. Joseph. The Farm House Café uses produce from the farm and other locally grown produce to whip up tantalizing vegan dishes. Carnivores or flexitarians can lunch on meals made with free-range and grass-fed animals, such as a pork chop slow braised in molasses and spice served with roast vegetables from the farm. Have a rum punch made with island rum and locally pressed fruit juice. 

What to Order

It’s a great place for a real Bajan breakfast with plantain pancakes, eggs benedict, pulled pork, and corned beef favorite menu items. 

9. The Ideal Restaurant

The flagship of the Barbados department store, Cave Shepherd, is found in Bridgetown. Its top-floor restaurant, which goes by the local moniker “The Ideal Restaurant,” is great for lunch with a downtown view. It’s a casual buffet lunch but it offers a deep dive into Bajan cuisine. 

What To Order

There are peas, rice, and one of the island’s best cheesy macaroni pies, as well as British specialties like shepherd’s pie. That’s just to start. Then for mains, you can choose from baked or stewed chicken, beef stew, lamb, flying fish, pudding, souse, pickled pork, and steamed sweet potato. It tastes like home cooking. 

Pro Tip: You might strike up a conversation with some locals, so you should brush up on your cricket to try and fit in. The sport is a near obsession on the island and a favorite topic of conversation after the weekend.

Bonus

I like to visit supermarkets wherever I travel and that includes the Caribbean (though much of what you find is imported American goods and in the case of Barbados, a lot of British products). I’ve found some great stuff, including a foot scrub made out of walnut shells that felt life changing, or at least saved me a lot in spa treatments. At the local supermarket in Six Cross, Emerald City, I like to shop for supplies for a picnic.

What To Shop For

I’ll get a roast chicken or ready-cooked flying fish with sides from the deli counter then head to one of the nearby beaches. I like Bottom Bay or Foul Bay where you’ll see fewer tourists.

Pro Tip: Make sure to lock your valuables in your car before heading to the seashore.

For the first time in my 50-plus years, I was making a cake from scratch, and not just any cake. Along with six other ladies, I was learning to make Gugelfhupf, a type of chocolate marbled bundt cake that’s popular in Vienna, Austria. Oma Renata was our “granny” for the day, tasked with teaching a bunch of American tourists on a hosted press trip to Austria how to create desserts with an Austrian flair.

She’s part of Vollpension, a social enterprise that employs roughly 80 people, most older than 60, who live alone or are affected by poverty. It was one of the most unique experiences I had in Vienna and it was one of the most unique cooking classes I’ve ever expe. Welcome to Vollpension — the unique cooking class in Vienna where you can bake authentic Austrian desserts!

A Sweet Organization

Vollpension creates meeting and learning areas among the old and young through “cooking with Oma” classes and its generational cafés. Vollpension’s handful of coffee shops are manned by grannies and grandpas who also create the home-cooked pastries sold there. Called “Our Generation Café,” the coffee shops act like a granny’s public living room, complete with grannies and grandpas to talk to, ask advice from, or just hug. 

In turn, these omas and opas are earning a wage, escaping isolation, and teaching a skill.

“Ten years ago in 2012, we actually had two observations. The first observation is that in the bigger cities, the generations don’t meet. There is no connection between young people and older people, and they have nothing in common,” said David Haller, “Social grannyniser” and co-founder. 

“The second observation is you get a lot of cakes in all the coffee houses, but where do you get the best cake? Exactly! From your grandparents’ house.”

In 2012, co-founders Mike Lanner and Moriz Piffl created the foundation for “Vollpension” (German for “full pension,” which refers to both the one that Austrians get from the government upon retirement and to the kind of hotel stay that includes meals, or full board). 

For several years, Vollpension was a café that operated as a pop-up and as a mobile kitchen until June 2015 when the first permanent location in Vienna’s Fourth District opened.

In October 2019, the second Vollpension opened at MUK (Music and Arts Private University of Vienna).

Where To Experience 

Vollpension

Vollpension sells authentic Austrian cakes and pastries at a kiosk in the First District. 

The Buchtelmobil

A mobile kitchen that provides granny-baked buchteln (a type of pull-apart sweet yeast roll stuffed with jam, chocolate, and other goodies) to events.

Cooking With Granny

Another type of magic, however, happens at The Vollpension Studio, where the baking-with-a-real-Viennese-granny experience happens. After Vollpension went online with its “Master” baking classes in its own in-house studio and did so-called master classes, the idea of learning to bake from a real granny or grandpa was so popular that Vollpension began BakAdemy.

BakAdemy is a curated experience in which you can take online courses or learn directly from a Viennese granny in person. At the baking course, visitors work step-by-step with a grandma or grandpa to create such Austrian desserts as traditional buchtel, gugelfhupf, eggnog cake, and others. Visitors each receive an apron and the right preparations but also get to spend time with their “grandma” and fellow students. 

My class was led by “Oma Renata,” an elegant pale-eyed woman who softly and patiently taught us non-baking Americans how to create a gugelfhupf, a type of marble cake dotted with almonds and rich with chocolate swirls. In the three hours we spent with Oma Renata, she showed us the correct way to make our own meringue, how to fold dusty cocoa powder into the batter without collapsing the meringue, added a bit of rum to our cakes when we did mess up and just stepped in to help when my own carelessness threatened to ruin my cake.

Soon, the studio was filled with the warm scent of almond cakes baking, and we all sat around a cozy “living room” area to chat about Renata’s life as our desserts rose to golden brown perfection in the ovens.

At the end, we all loaded our surprisingly perfect-looking gugelfhupfs up into pink boxes with the Vollpension logo on it to take home with us. The experience was among my favorites while in Vienna.

Even better, you don’t even have to clean up after yourself! All you have to do is follow grandma’s instructions and take your masterpiece home safely packed in a cake safe.

“Everything we do is to provide jobs for elderly people. It helps with isolation and helps with bringing the generations together,” Haller said. “The last 10 years we had I think a million guests in our coffee houses, but a billion people got in contact with the vision of what we’re doing.”

How To Book A Class

Book An Online Class

Vollpension has online videos available, and each course lasts several hours. In these online courses, you will be able to learn more than 10 recipes as well as picking up some little baking hacks that the Omas and Opas have learned in their lives. All the recipes are based on the family recipes of each of the teachers, and the online classes are great for beginners and master bakers alike. 

To book, visit Vollpension BackAcademy website and find the tab for “Video Courses.” Once you’ve purchased your choice of OMAsterclass, you can find the videos in your user account at any time. You’ll have to create and log into your customer account and choose “Orders” on the left. All your purchases will be there, but if you click on the OMAsterclass, you will be taken straight to the relevant page with all the videos.

Book A Live Baking Class

The live baking course with grandma is an all-round package. In addition to a lot of fun and grandma love, you also receive a recipe of the baked pastry as a certificate, the finished pastry to take home, a selfie with a grandma, and a little surprise at the end. Classes usually run two and a half to three and a half hours and no baking experience is required. To book this unique cooking class with a Viennese granny where you can bake authentic Austrian desserts, visit the Vollpension BackAcademy website. Choose “Baking Courses in Studio.” 

To book a private course or an exclusive group activity with friends, fill out the contact form at the bottom of the page to ask about availability and dates. Someone will then get in touch with you immediately.

As Taiwan reopens to international travelers, it has an opportunity to prove that it is a noteworthy foodie destination. When you think of Asian-based foodie travel, Tokyo, Singapore, and Bangkok are the milestones. From dumplings, kimchi, pad Thai, and rotis to the more exotic Burger King squid-ink burger and deep-fried insects, their popularity has grown due to the countless satisfied diners.

I count myself as a foodie who gravitates more toward street food and mom-and-pop shops. Sweet to savory and spicy to mild, Taiwan’s capital city, Taipei, offered a smorgasbord with the range that I was looking for. Below, I offer my Adventurous Eater’s Guide to Taipei. I had only 84 hours to explore Taiwan, so I had to quickly decide where to eat based on where I saw locals go. 

1. Jhu Jian Taipei Zhongxiao 2nd Branch 

A bit on the pricey side, Jhu Jian Taipei Zhongxiao 2nd Branch is a good introduction to Taipei’s hot-pot foodie culture with its subdued lighting and date-night atmosphere. Although open for lunch, it is the ideal locale to start your evening out or to finish and return to your hotel. If possible, make a reservation. On weekend evenings, you might have to wait for an available table. 

What To Order At Jhu Jian Taipei Zhongxiao 2nd Branch

I chose the popular pork blade shoulder pot with a side of rice. Other popular favorites are the New Zealand lamb shoulder pot and American sous vide top blade sirloin pot. Udon and steamed noodles were other sides that went over well with the diners. 

2. Mamalia Cookie Talks 

Mamalia Cookie Talks specializes in various cookies in meticulously designed boxes. The themes run from colors, holidays, and television programs to mythic stories. You can also design your own box full of your favorites after trying a few samples. 

What To Order At Mamalia Cookie Talks

These cookies are so good that I purchased many boxes of them for my friends. My personal favorite is the assortment of hand-made fried cookies. Other popular items are the fragrant chocolate series and natural fruit series. Feel free to try samples and then create your own custom box of treats. 

3. Zhuan Wei Xiang 

I found this gem while exploring the side streets of the Da’an District. Small and simple with a few seats, it is a warmly lit and unpretentious restaurant. Unfortunately, the staff do not speak English, so prepare to use Google translate to communicate and place an order. 

What To Order At Zhuan Wei Xiang

I was lucky to run into a local who had lived in Manhattan for a few years and he helped me as my translator. He recommended the noodles in a spicy sauce with pork wontons after seeing that I was having difficulty choosing my meal. I dug in and chose to finish it all off with some sour and spicy stewed rice.

4. Din Tai Fung 

Din Tai Fung has many locations and long lines at all of them, so I had to know what the commotion was about. To say they take food preparation seriously is an understatement. For me, a part of the experience was watching the staff meticulously prepare each dumpling in a kitchen that looked more like a lab. If you visit in the evening, it may be a bit busy, so expect a wait if you would like to dine in rather than carrying out. 

What To Order At Din Tai Fung

The most popular and delicious offerings are the pork xiao long bao, truffle and shrimp siu mai, vegetarian mushroom buns, house special shrimp and pork wontons with house soy sauce, and bitter melon soup with pork spare ribs. My personal favorites were the steamed ground pork and vegetable dumplings.

5. Taipei 101 Food Court 

Taipei 101 offers a panoramic view of the city from its observation decks, a mall, and events hosted on the rooftop, including concerts, as well as one of the fastest elevators in the world (Level 89 in 37 seconds), and the building’s food court rounds out the experience. 

What To Order At Taipei 101’s Food Court

By this point in my exploration, I had to add notches to my belt. As one of my favorite food places in the city, I had to try as many dishes as possible, starting with Karen Teppanyaki. The grilled chicken, oysters, and, in my opinion, anything with garlic, are delicious. Mai Sen pork chops were made with their house sauce and bread crumb-coated entrees. KQ Tea’s wide selection of boba juices and teas are an ideal beverage for any meal.

Pro Tip: Be prepared to spend at least 3 hours here.

6. Burger Talks

If you are in the mood for an American-type creature comfort, then I suggest fast-food Burger Talks. A continuous theme with Taiwanese food is the use of fresh ingredients, house-made sauces, and the exploration of bold tastes. Burgers here range from beef and pork to fish and veggie. Hot dogs, nuggets, and fries are also on the menu.

What To Order At Burger Talks

All three locations have a similar menu, so you are not missing out on anything if you chose one location over the other. The East Coast beef cheeseburger is a popular classic burger. Those looking for something with a little more heat can go for the Ghost Pepper beef cheeseburger. The yakiniku (Japanese roast pork) sandwich is a good go-to for lunch. 

7. Gongguan Night Market 

Taipei’s Gongguan Night Market is only open for a few hours each evening. It’s conveniently located near the metro station of the same name, which makes it easily accessible. Narrow lanes and a multitude of food stalls appeal to university students. While there, I moved around, exploring and sampling from a number of stations whose names were only in Mandarin. If you don’t mind shopping with your eyes and nose and are ready to dive into the options available, then you will enjoy what’s offered here.

What To Order At Gongguan Night Market

Start at Lan Jia Taiwanese Snack to try a gua bao, which is popular with the local students. Sugarcane Mama is a great place to stop if you have a sweet tooth. Try the signature sugarcane smoothie. Nice Thai is another worthwhile stop if you are craving Thai food. The spicy fried chicken and shrimp cake appetizers are delicious additions to your night feast. 

8. Taipei Main Station Food Hall

Serving as your portal of entry and exit, the Taipei Main Station is the main stop for the airport line bringing you right into Old Taipei. 

Come early before heading back to Taiwan International (TPE). On the bottom floor is a food hall that gets a mix of school students, elders, and commuters. One of the busiest morning stalls is a simple à la carte breakfast shop that will have you elbow to elbow with other eaters. 

Very simple. You prepare your meal, pay, grab a communal newspaper, and have a seat. People don’t stay long, and the conversations are kept to a minimum. It’s an ideal first or final meal.

What To Order At Taipei Main Station Food Hall

The food section is called Breeze Gourmet Heaven. No matter the time of day, you will find something open with a wide range of options, from a Starbucks to Hongkong Dumplings at Dim Dim Sum and Nitakaken’s Japanese curry. The most popular options are the assorted curry rice with chicken and beef and sukiyaki beef with rice.

End your food tour at French Pastry for one of their tarts. You cannot lose no matter which one — or two — you go with. My favorites were the strawberry cheese tarts, and if you have room, the French caramel brûlée or the matcha white jade.

9. FamilyMart Convenience Stores

This is a Japanese convenience store chain that originally opened in 1993. You will come across quite a number of locations throughout Taipei. Known for its doorbell jingle when you enter, this is where you stop to pick up provisions ranging from grab-and-go bento boxes to alcoholic beverages. 

What To Buy At FamilyMart

Try some of the Famichiki Potato Chips that are often offered in limited-time-only flavors. I went crazy for FamilyMart’s branded juices that had flavors such as grapefruit tea, apple tea, and coffee latte. Overall, my favorite was the mango iced tea, especially after exploring the city. If you are looking for something more substantial, you can grab a MOS Burger on a bao bun.

Kalispell, Montana, is an energetic mountain city that sits between two stunning natural treasures: Glacier National Park and Flathead Lake. It’s also a booming culinary hotspot infused with regional flavors and creative flair.

During a recent media visit, I made the rounds of restaurants and cafes for a true taste of Kalispell. Here are my seven favorite dining experiences, in no particular order. The visit was hosted, but all opinions and recommendations are my own.

Pro Tip: Huckleberries are a sweet, tangy blueberry-esque fruit that thrives mostly in the wilderness of the Rocky Mountains. They are also a delicacy, so indulge when you can. (Bears love them, too!)

1. Ceres Bakery

Wake up to the wafting fragrances of freshly brewed espresso and fruity danishes right out of the oven, and you’ve arrived at Ceres Bakery in downtown Kalispell. The adjoining dining room is a brightly lit space with plenty of seating and a live garden wall.

An impressive menu of flaky pastries, crusty dinner breads, and breakfast and lunch sandwiches is hand-made in-house and changes daily. During my visit, cardamom knots and sweet potato sticky buns were featured.

Beverage options are just as extensive. The local favorite is a sweet, caramel espresso blend, which has been on the menu for more than 10 years. The list goes on with more coffee variations, teas, chai, kombucha, and hot chocolate. Add any of a dozen flavored syrups.

The adjoining dining room is a brightly lit space with a live garden wall overlooking the street. The side walls are lined with the works of local artists, and the back wall is a vertical garden filled with well-tended live plants.

What To Order At Ceres Bakery

My frosted cinnamon roll was enormous, super-moist, and flaky. My hot cup of chocolate was full-bodied but not overly sweet. A perfect beginning to the day!

Pro Tip: While you’re waiting for your order, check out the many works by local artists that adorn the walls.

2. Big Mountain Ciderworks

The big red barn in the Kalispell countryside is Big Mountain Ciderworks, a family-operated orchard, cidery, tasting room, and restaurant. The ambiance is industrial chic, highlighted with reclaimed woods and garage-door windows that open on balmy days. Behind the building is a large patio that overlooks the 40-acre orchard where 7,000 apple and pear trees are planted.

Apple cider is the star, with a rotating roster of 16 on tap on any given day. These apple ciders are crisp, clean, and palate-quenching. They tasted more like wine than juice. Start off, like I did, with a cider flight of four small but generous glasses. Choose from dry, semi-dry, combination, or let the bartender choose.

The dining menu is made up of creative comfort foods, loaded with burgers and sandwiches, flatbreads, salads, and the like. Burgers are a hot item, and they come with a side of tots, fries, onion rings, or a side salad. I ordered the apple bacon grilled cheese on toasted ciabatta bread with a side of perky seasoned fries.

What To Order At Big Mountain Ciderworks

The perfect companion to your apple cider flight is the house soup. It’s a smooth, tasty concoction of butternut squash, apple cider, cream, and herbs garnished with toasted pumpkin seeds and honey crema.

Pro Tip: From the windowed west side of the restaurant or the patio beyond, you’ll catch exquisite orchard views and stunning sunsets.

3. KM Bar

Kick back at KM Bar, located downtown in the historic 1894 Kalispell Mercantile building. Today, KM Bar is an American gastropub serving up camaraderie and good tastes in a darkened ambiance. Live entertainment is a regular experience.

The bar menu lists numerous offerings from local and regional distilleries, breweries, and cider houses, as well as a retinue of specialty drinks that nod to the area and its history. My Bear Bait cocktail, for instance, featured “Bearproof,” a single-malt whiskey from nearby Glacier Distilling; ginger beer; Angostura bitters; and fresh lime.

On the hearty food menu are small bites, grilled steaks, sandwiches, salads, and sides. We ordered an ensemble of starters including mushroom toast and calamari piccata.

What To Order At KM Bar

The Korean short rib plate, slathered with a porcini rub and bold chimichurri sauce, is a clear winner.

Pro Tip: Walk behind the stage at KM Bar and you’ll enter the upscale Mercantile Steak, which is the next restaurant I’ll tell you about.

4. Mercantile Steak 

Also located in the historic Kalispell Mercantile building is Mercantile Steak, an upscale steakhouse with a touch of Old West glam. The space is richly adorned with a copper-tinned ceiling, Tiffany-style chandeliers, stained glass windows, and an ornate mirrored bar.

The classic steakhouse menu is meat-centric, including steaks, bison ribeye, pork chops, and racks of lamb. On the side are traditional offerings like Ceasar salad and baked potato but also seasonal specials. The extensive beverage menu begins with extensive wine and cocktail listings plus beers and ciders.

My companions and I chose to follow tradition and order steaks. Two shared a humongous porterhouse while I claimed a filet mignon. Plus, a scattering of sides and a trio of desserts. We raved about it all.

What To Order At Mercantile Steak

If you’re not of a mind for meat, the sides and salads are equally interesting. There’s always a fish special as well. I could have made a memorable meal from the loaded wedge salad and a couple of veggie dishes. Hello, caramelized baby carrots.

Pro Tip: Do not miss the house-made popovers with garlic butter pats. I’m serious about this. They are softball-sized but oh-so-fluffy and delicious!

5. Hop’s Downtown Grill

A long-time Kalispell dining tradition, Hop’s Downtown Grill is renowned for craft beer, beef and game meats, and warm hospitality. The decor sports an intimate vibe with soft lighting and woody accents, Behind the bar is a wall hung with vintage album covers and a teeth-gnashing bear head.

Hop’s Downtown Grill is a destination restaurant for locally sourced yak, bison, wild boar, and elk. Burgers are a big deal, and there’s a lentil and quinoa burger for non-meat-eaters. I picked the Hunter’s Trio, a sampler platter of yak, elk, and wild boar sliders. One of my companions chose the elk bratwurst simmered in beer and grilled, served with salted Bavarian pretzel, dark ale mustard, and blue cheese fondue.

The beverage menu boasts more than 100 craft beers, and the wine list is international, with many labels from California and the Pacific Northwest.

What To Order At Hop’s Downtown Grill

Hop’s Poutine, fries topped with cheese curds and something called Moose Drool gravy.

Pro Tip: Reservations are highly recommended, or you’re in for a long wait. Diners come in from a long way to eat at Hop’s, especially on Thursdays, when house-smoked huckleberry glazed prime rib is a special.

6. DeSoto Grill

Formerly a blacksmith shop from a century ago, DeSoto Grill found new life as a lively, offbeat barbecue joint. The space is filled to the rafters with kitsch: auto parts, advertising signs, horseshoes, and assorted old-timey memorabilia. The hostess stand was fashioned from the front of a 1934 DeSoto truck.

Specialties of the house are slow-smoked brisket and pulled pork, sure to be piled high and doused in secret-recipe barbecue sauce. Order a sandwich, or make it a platter with cornbread and sides.

I went for another local favorite, the stuffed baked potato. The enormous spud was piled with tender brisket, corn, and cheddar cheese, then drizzled with sour cream and barbecue sauce. It paired perfectly with Flathead Lake Huckleberry soda, a new love of my life.

What To Order At DeSoto Grill

Don’t miss out on the cornbread — it’s a family recipe.

Pro Tip: Be sure to check out the bathrooms. The ladies’ room is decorated with vintage mirrors and vanity items, and the men’s room is decorated with vintage shaving paraphernalia.

7. MontaVino Winery And Tasting Room

After a day of activity or before your dinner reservation, a great place to sit and snack is at MontaVino Winery and Tasting Room. The winery produces more than a dozen white, red, and rose varietals and blends under its own label. Grapes are sourced primarily from the Columbia Valley and Yakima Valley in Washington state.

You can buy your wine by the glass or bottle. My recommendation is to order a wine flight, which consists of your choice of any three varietals. In my view, the Rosa Bella Rose, a happy blend of white and red grapes, is top-notch. There’s also a lovely selection of wine cocktails, including flavored spritzers, mimosas, mules, and sangria. Warm, spiced wine is on the menu during the colder months.

The tasting room is generously sized, but the spaces are broken up into smaller arrangements that create intimacy and invite conversation. Take a spot at one of the party tables, cozy fireside groupings, the wine bar, or on the patio.

What To Order At MontaVino Winery And Tasting Room

Design your own charcuterie board for munching. The deluxe board comes with 3 gourmet meats, 3 cheeses, fresh fruit, fresh veggies, nuts, and crackers.

Pro Tip: Wine by the glass is discounted during happy hour, 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Related Reading:

• 6 Fantastic Winter Experiences In The Beautiful Mountain Town Of Kalispell, Montana
• 11 Fantastic Things To Do In Vibrant Kalispell, Montana
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While Scotland is not necessarily known as a foodie destination, there is no doubt that some of its traditional dishes are recognized around the world. Who hasn’t heard of haggis or deep-fried Mars bars? Others are definitely a more local affair, and offer lots to discover and try.

Wherever I travel, I tend to try and sample as much of the local cuisine as possible, as each traditional dish tells you a little about the region, the people, and their history.  In Scotland, surrounded on three sides by the sea, there is definitely a lot of fresh seafood around, but it is the typical Scottish food that I searched out, to more or less success.

Here are some of the typically Scottish foods and drinks you need to try when you find yourself in the northernmost country of the United Kingdom, for better or for worse. Be brave, and you will be rewarded.

1. Haggis

Haggis is undoubtedly the most famous Scottish food item, maybe after whisky — see below — and it is the national dish of Scotland. Now, you have got to be brave: Haggis is made from minced sheep’s lung, heart, and liver mixed with chopped beef or lamb, oats, suet, and numerous spices, such as nutmeg, cinnamon, and coriander. The finely ground mixture is then wrapped in a sheep’s stomach and boiled. Still upright?

Having a vegetarian daughter, my stomach turns at the ingredients list, but, when in Scotland… And do you know what? It is really good.  There are no chewy lumps or fatty meat; instead, the fine mince tastes nearly Christmassy, beautifully spiced, but not spicy, and very tasty indeed. I enjoyed it so much, I had it again, and would heartily recommend it to anybody. Just don’t think of the list of ingredients, that’s all.

Where To Try It: The Ardnamurchan Scottish Restaurant in Glasgow is a hugely popular restaurant in a contemporary setting, and the dishes are affordable, nicely presented, and really yummy.

2. Neeps And Tatties

If you are eating haggis, then you will also be eating neeps and tatties; they go together like fish and chips. What sounds exotic is simply mashed up swedes and/or turnips, called neeps, and potatoes, the tatties. Again, finely mashed, but not pureed, they are prepared with butter, salt, and pepper, and that is pretty much it. Simple, warming, hearty, and tasty. And, together with haggis, not a dish that will give your teeth a workout, but a perfect combination that is very enjoyable.

Where To Try It: I had them at the same place as the haggis, the Ardnamurchan in Glasgow, but you find them on every menu in Scotland as they are a staple food.

3. Cullen Skink

What sounds like a sulking lizard is indeed one of the tastiest soups in the world, and that is official, according to Taste Atlas, which scored the soup 4.8 out of 5. And I, for one, tend to agree. There is nothing better on a cold winter’s day than a steaming hot bowl of soup, unless you can get hold of a steaming hot bowl of Cullen Skink, that is. Made quite simply from milk, potatoes, leeks, and onions, with the magic ingredient of smoked haddock, the soup is creamy and, because of the fish, has a lovely smoked flavor to it. Originating from the northeastern fishing village of Cullen some 180 miles north of Edinburgh, smoking fish was a popular way of preserving a fresh catch and it makes for a nice, hearty dish.

Where To Try It: I ate it pretty much everywhere I found it, which is in most restaurants serving local dishes, but according to anybody in the know, it is the Rockpool Cafe in Cullen where they still follow the absolutely original and best recipe.

4. Irn-Bru

Ask anybody Scottish, and they come together over their love for Irn-Bru. This neon orange fizzy soda is famous but is rarely available beyond the Scottish borders. Personally, I hate carbonated drinks, and certainly any that glow in the dark, but in the name of research, I went for it. Tense and with a glass of water nearby to wash away the taste, I sipped, and I liked. Very sweet, very orange, but not as awful as Lucozade (my apologies, Lucozade makers), it has a taste that I cannot describe, but it certainly is not as harsh as it looks, or you’d expect. I would have it again on an occasion that I needed a sugary caffeine rush, but no coffee was at hand.

Where To Try It: I did my taste experiment in the lovely setting of the coffee shop inside the imposing Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum in Glasgow. Buy a can of the drink and try it. It is surprisingly good. Another surprise point to Scottish food and drink.

5. Deep-Fried Mars Bar

Okay, now if you think haggis is weird, then you have tried nothing yet. Some 20-odd years ago it went through the world press and TV that in Scotland they started to batter and deep fry that chocolate bar made from caramel and chocolate, the Mars bar. Why, I cannot be too sure, but even now, whenever you hear talk about eating in Scotland, the deep-fried Mars bar comes up.

I love chocolate, but I do not like Mars bars (my apologies, Mars Wrigley), but I had chocolate spring rolls before and they were so good, that, again in the name of research, I went for it. Honestly? It is one of the worst things I have ever tasted. I had two bites, just to confirm my first impression, and threw out the rest. That said, my husband found it greasy but not too bad. And for what it’s worth, he also likes Mars bars. So, by all means, try one.

Where To Try It: While any fish and chip shop in the Glasgow city center offers them, I cannot bring myself to recommend the place I got mine from.

6. Cranachan

Now, here we are coming to probably my favorite after haggis and Cullen Skink. This is a sweet treat served in a glass that is made up of layers of cream, oats, honey, and fresh raspberries with a dash of whisky. It is a dessert served on special occasions, such as Burns Night celebrations, when I first tasted it, and originates from the harvest festival, taking place after the harvest of the raspberries. It is absolutely scrumptious, light and healthy tasting, and so moreish that you might as well try and get hold of another one straight away.

Where To Try It: Head straight to the beautiful Café Royal in Edinburgh, where they also do the Macbeth Toastie, a toasted sandwich filled with haggis, smoked bacon, cheddar, and caramelized onions.

7. Stovies

Stovies is a dish based on potatoes. Usually served in an individual baking dish, or portioned from a larger casserole dish, this recipe is an individual one, with every place preparing it slightly differently. Small diced potatoes are stewed slowly and prepared with onions, vegetables, and usually some kind of slow-cooked meat, or indeed a cold slice of meat on the side. Very wintery and warming, nearly stodgy, but good old comfort food to be sure. It is so warming that they serve it at the Edinburgh Christmas Market to enjoy with a glass of mulled wine. And that is pretty perfect.

Where To Try It: If you are in Glasgow instead of the Edinburgh Christmas Market, then head to the Curler’s Rest Pub near the Botanical Gardens.

8. Whisky

You can’t talk about Scottish food and drink and not talk about whisky. It is the national drink, it is an important part of the country’s income, and it is, quite simply, the lifeblood of Scotland. Whisky distilling started, as did champagne making, in a monastery. What would we do without the old monks?! The name whisky derives from the old Gaelic expression, uisge beatha, and can be translated as “water of life,” not to be confused with the clear aquavit, the Scandinavian water of life.

Where To Try It: Wherever you find yourself in Scotland, there is whisky, and the taste differences are enormous. And the best way to find one you like is during a whisky tasting. The slightly touristy, but extensive and informative Scotch Whisky Experience on the Royal Mile in Edinburgh will leave your head spinning for so many reasons.

9. Scottish Porridge

I am not a breakfast person normally, but when I have time and leisure, I love some freshly made porridge. Especially when it’s cold outside. Scottish porridge is made from oats that are ground, so it is a lot finer than most porridges around the world, and it makes for a creamy texture. It is not a traditionally Scottish dish as such, because many countries have porridge, but the way the oats are treated differs, so I thought I’d include it here.

Where To Try It: Many cafes offer you porridge on the breakfast menu. I enjoyed the porridge at Pep & Fodder at 11 Waterloo Place near Calton Hill in Edinburgh. Unpretentious, and budget-friendly, they are happy to top up your cinnamon or syrup as you work through your bowl of porridge.