There are several locations, but you have to visit the original in the French Quarter. Sure, it’s pretty much all tourists, but go in the early morning for a strong cafe au lait and some fried beignets showered – no, smothered – in powdered sugar. Hot from the fryer, they’re hard to beat. You’ll also … Continued
This New Orleans legend is still tucked among the chaos and beer-soaked college amateurs along Bourbon Street. But step inside (jackets suggested for men) and be transported to the time of Tennessee Williams and Cokie Roberts’ parents. There are just as many judges, politicians and attorneys having lunch here as there are tourists. Get the … Continued
There are only a handful of Turkish restaurants in Chicago, and of those, only a few serve lahmacun. It’s essentially a thin, crispy pizza-like disc topped with minced lamb and beef. It’s one of only two things that are served at the tiny Pide ve Lahmacun on Irving Park Road, and the key to enjoying … Continued
Neighborhood gems can be hard to find in London, which has so many nooks and crannies. The typical joint is a fish & chips shop, but St. John defies that stereotype. Located in Smithfield, St. John has become the ultimate nose-to-tail restaurant, led by Fergus Henderson (who essentially wrote the book on the subject). The … Continued
[Note: this tour is no longer being sold, but it will give you an idea of the types of tours I can organize] After our successful (and incredibly delicious) eating and drinking trip to New Orleans in March, I’ve decided to plan another group trip. This time, we’re going to visit one of my favorite … Continued
Click here to read my profile of Vikram Vij, Chef/Owner of Vij’s in Vancouver – in my opinion, the best Indian restaurant in North America.
First of all, you have to make some time to see the Momofuku Complex/Temple while you’re in town. Located next to the Shangri-La Hotel, David Chang has three different concepts all under one, giant, glass cube. Noodle Bar on the ground floor; a small Milk Bar and a regular cocktail bar on the second floor; … Continued
Restauarnt Chantecler offers a rotating menu of inventive tapas – many with an Asian spin – and signature cocktails in a cozy, brick exposed location. I loved the neighborhood too; good place to come for a lazy weekend brunch/lunch. Restaurant Chantecler 1320 Queen St. W, Toronto; (416) 628-3586
One of my favorite restaurants in Toronto, Bar Isabel serves up craft beer and creative, Spanish-influenced plates in a rustic, old-world setting that doesn’t feel tired or forced, just comfortable. Staff is super knowledgeable and I just ask them to have the kitchen send out whatever the hell tastes good, crafting a menu on-the-spot. Bar … Continued
This stylish coffee shop crafts their own gelato and sorbet. Located on busy College Street, they were the first to carry Intelligentsia coffee (in a city that loves its Tim Horton’s). Emphasis is on beautifully-crafted lattes with attention to detail. Manic Coffee 426 College St., Toronto; (416) 966-3888
Ironside offers fresh seafood and inventive cocktails in a hip location with quirky decor. It’s located near Little Italy, but there’s nothing cliché about the menu. Reminds me of cooler, updated Shaw’s Crab House (Chicago) meets Island Creek Oyster Bar (Boston). Can be pretty loud at night, just fyi. Ironside Fish and Oyster 1654 India … Continued