It was not our first time in the dazzling Douro Valley, yet we somehow felt this time was the one we enjoyed the most. We decided to do it, once again, the unhurried way, spending some days in the region instead of just going for a day trip as some travelers do. And it proved to be a wise decision: the winding roads along the… Read more »
Category: Eating
Paris is a city that most travelers praise, not only for its outstanding amount of attractions, but for the romantic lure and a cuisine that is acclaimed all over the world. But what about its pâtisseries? Cities with high standards of quality, like London or Tokyo, often hire French pâtissiers (pastry chefs) for their premium bakeries and pastry shops, an indication of how good the… Read more »
Identifying the very best food in Rome is no easy feat: not only is the sheer abundance of restaurants serving amazing meals remarkable but just thinking about the dishes alights some serious cravings…! The true cucina romana goes well beyond pasta and offers delicious dishes a discerning traveler should not miss: carciofi alla giudia (fried artichoke), the world famous cacio e pepe or carbonara pastas,… Read more »
Tatte serves salads, tartines and delicious sandwiches, as well as a few dishes. A popular choice, the tables are always full, not only for the excellent food, but for the venue itself which is modern with a joyous vibe. With Middle Eastern touches aplenty, this restaurant/cafe serves shakshoukas, a popular choice in big cities, small pans served with eggs, tomato sauce and other ingredients. The bread is… Read more »
With one of the most creative Asian menus we have come across, it is no wonder UNI attracts a faithful clientele of local regulars and is always busy. Also unsurprising are the recent accolades awarded to the chef responsible for this izakaya (a sort of Japanese tapas bar). If you are unable to book a table ahead of time, do not fret, show up and ask to… Read more »
The Toscano is located in the lovely neighborhood of Beacon Hill, a short walk from the beautiful Public Garden. There are two main rooms, one less formal with wooden tables and a bar at the end. The Italian menu offers typical dishes like paninis, pizzas and soups, but what sets it apart are the lovely appetizers and Italian antipastos, as well as the entrees. We started with… Read more »
Sunset is worthy of your visit not only for its fresh seafood selection but for the surrounding beauty. Located in Ammoudi, in the lower part of Oia, this simple seaside tavern is set immediately beside a large cliff wall and practically touching the deep blue sea. The food is marvelous and we tried the octopus, grilled fish and vegetables accompanied by some refreshing white wine.… Read more »
Renowned in Santorini, the Kastro restaurant is located in Oia’s edge, very close to the old castle ruins. Strategically placed for sunset views amidst the little white houses, colorful bougainvillea and round rooftops, this venue is on demand, so book ahead. The food is plain and simply good, no masterfully creative touches or intricate elaborations. We kept it simple as well and ordered salads, grilled… Read more »
Ambrosia is one of the best restaurants in Santorini. Its name, known in Greek mythology as food of the gods, is not a complete exaggeration, as the food is indeed divine. Yet, Ambrosia’s experience goes beyond gastronomy. Located on a cliff top in Oia, with mesmerizing views of the caldera, it is worth the effort to reserve one of the very few outdoor tables on… Read more »
Argo is located in Fira’s small town center, a bustling tourist spot, although considerably less trendy and busy than Oia. Argo may not be worth a trip across the island for itself, but, as it is located in the very middle of Santorini, it is a good choice if you are passing through and would like a nice meal. The food is good, yet the… Read more »
Until recently Floga was known simply as 1800 and was frequented by many travelers, regulars of Santorini. It is set in an old luxurious mansion house dating back to the 19th Century, with strong connections to Oia, its shipyards and development as one of the largest commercial ports in the Cyclades archipelago. To this day, the 1800 Floga is deemed one of the best restaurants… Read more »
Set in a nicer ambiance than most Portimão restaurants, the F was one of our best dining choices in the region. If you are staying at Hotel da Rocha or the Bela Vista, it is just a five-minute walk. Spacious terrace hanging over Praia da Rocha guarantees a special view for your meal, particularly during the unforgettable sunsets. But do not expect a laid back beach… Read more »
After a day spent swimming in the sunshine you may fancy a simple venue that serves delicious homemade style dishes. If you are staying at Hotel da Rocha or the Bela Vista, in Portimão, it is just a five-minute walk. The Mercado is an unpretentious restaurant that has attentive wait staff and an owner keen to ensure everything is meeting the needs of his guests. The… Read more »
Our latest long stay in the Algarve turned out to be a gastronomic delight, and Ababuja was particularly special. The food was very fresh, we thoroughly enjoyed the amêijoas (a local type of clam), the various species of prawns, octopus and grilled fish… and were charmed by the owner who served tables himself and suggested amazing Portuguese wines to accompany our meal. Another highlight of… Read more »
This is a typical beach and sea front venue, if a little more upscale, is frequented by beach goers during the day. That was our case, after some sunbathing and swimming in the refreshing, almost cold, sea, nothing beats a cold beer and some nibbles to appease our hunger. We went for grilled sardines, the famous amêijoas (clams) in a butter and parsley sauce and… Read more »
The Terra Restaurant in Sagres was a lovely mid-day pause during our visit to this region of the Algarve, as we spent the day between the indescribably beautiful Ponta da Piedade and Sagres, with its fort and breathtaking views. Very close to the fort, this simple yet charming ristorante with Italian roots was just the ticket. The main hall makes you feel like you are… Read more »
The most recent restaurant in the Algarve region to have been awarded a Michelin star is based at Hotel Bela Vista. The small palace, which leans over Portimão’s main beach, has a beautiful bar worthy of an early start to give you time to savor the lovely selection of drinks and cocktails. Common rooms adorned with traditional Portuguese tiled walls, a grand piano and a… Read more »
This is one of the few two-Michelin star restaurants in Portugal, hence manage your expectations regarding dining costs. Although, dining at Vila Joya is not simply a meal, but a complete experience. The Austrian Chef more than delivers with outstanding dish after dish, over a long evening that begins with the enchanting setting. Upon entering the property of the same name, you shall be greeted… Read more »
Sacher, one of the most traditional cafes in Europe, is located in a hotel of the same name and is world known for its namesake pie. The sachertorte, which resembles a cake with layers of jelly filled chocolate dough, can be found in many European cities nowadays. But, when in Vienna, you simply have to sample the original pie in its place of origin. The… Read more »
The group started out as a catering business but soon expanded their line and today have restaurants and even hotels. In Vienna, visit the branch across from Vienna Cathedral, Stephensdom. Request a window seat with views to the cathedral, so you can appreciate the beautifully colorful mosaic rooftop, famous all over the world. Our experience was excellent as the food was as delicious as the… Read more »
