A Chic Birthday Dinner in Cape Town

We arrived into Cape Town on a quiet Saturday night. After a restful night sleep in our new home, we awoke to the sounds of the ocean and prepared for a fabulous day. My sister and two best friends were going to be celebrating my birthday in South Africa. To kick off an amazing week ahead, we held a birthday dinner at the house. 

Local chef, Jess Bunn, set an unbelievable menu based on what was just in from the ocean and farmland surrounding us. The flavors and variation of each dish were complimented with each glass of wine shared.

A potato and lentil starter with a bean puree got our taste buds going and our mouths watering. We then dined on local oysters with fresh horseradish and lemon. Afterwards we moved on to the main event, the steamed mussels. This beautiful display, surrounded by aromatic pines, was almost as tantalizing as the food itself. Cooked off with juniper berries, white wine, and garlic we sipped, slurped, and dipped (our bread) into a wonderfully prepared meal. 

To finish it off we had a beautiful dessert of rosewater granita with fresh berries and chunks of crispy honeycomb that created a fresh yet satisfying end to a nourishing meal. I felt so beyond grateful to have such a ceremonious meal shared with my favorite people in the world so many miles from home. 

Farm to Table in Sweden at Ängavallen

After a long journey from Germany to Sweden via planes, trains and automobiles... I found myself walking through a misty pasture towards one of Sweden's best Eco-Organic farm-to-table restaurants. I entered Ängavallen's quaint barn-like cafe through an old wooden door with hopes of indulging in a much needed farm-fresh lunch. 

Inside, the bright cafe was bustling with locals all hand picking their daily assortments of milk, cheese, and meat. The nostalgic smell of fresh baked bread, complimented the warm atmosphere of the staff behind the counter. 

I was approached by a sweet middle aged man asking (first in Swedish) if I needed any help or suggestions. When I explained I was from NYC and could use all the help I could get... His eyes lit up and he began a very heartfelt, educational explanation of Ängavallen's farming practices and procedures. It was around that time that I realized he was Rolf Axel Nordstrom, the owner of the farm. He explained his love for animals, which had developed at an early age, as well as his responsibility in insuring every living thing on his farm led a happy, uninterrupted, natural life. 

All the cattle and sheep are pasture fed, and the goats and pigs also maintain an organic vegetarian diet. Their regime and lifestyle naturally creates a slower growing animal, the result is premium dairy and meat quality, high in Omega 3's and essential nutrients.

Once he finished explaining the farms philosophies, he translated the daily menu and offered up his personal recommendations. I opted for a charcuterie and cheese plate to start. It was the perfect way to get a comprehensive sampling of the most recent products the farm had to offer. I then ordered the daily quiche, which was filled with market vegetables and beef, as well as a spicy pork sausage. 

I paired it all with an organic wine from South Africa that was a blend of Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot. The wine combined with the creamy cheese, cured meat, smoky sausage and hearty quiche was absolutely heavenly. I couldn't get over all the effortlessly rustic flavors, working together to create a knockout meal... And this was just their lunch menu.

Ängavallen is an absolute must-visit foodie destination in the south of Sweden, where the fare on the table is as harmonious and high quality as the farm itself. 

A Cooking Class and Visit to Surquilo Market in Lima

As the sliding doors opened, I became overwhelmed by the wide array of colors, smells, and textures that surrounded me. Standing in the market, in the heart of Miraflores, Peru... my mind had no idea where to even begin. Large sacks of drying potatoes, in varieties Id never heard of, pile up into giant mounds. Bundles of green plantains hang like ornaments over every stall. Women posted up in their respective stations, cutting grapes, tearing herbs, and reorganizing their spice mounds in preparation for what was sure to be another bustling day at Surquillo Market.

I, however was there to learn about all the geographically local ingredients, what was currently in season, as well as the various infusions brought into Peruvian cooking through Chinese and Japanese influence. The market was the second to last stop on a morning adventure through Lima, Peru. Earlier that morning, myself and a group of chefs, restaurant owners, and hospitality industry companions perused the streets, stopping at some of the greatest restaurants in Lima that are now recognized worldwide.

From Maido, a welcoming and extravagant restaurant that harmoniously blends Peruvian flavors with Japanese style and technique. To one of the most buzzed about hot spots in the world, Central.. known for utilizing some of Peru's exclusive local delicacies. What’s something you'd never imagine ending up on a five star menu? A rich clay found deep in the Andean Mountains served tableside.

After our celebrity restaurant pit stops, we arrived at the market to met up with Pedro Miguel Schiaffino of Malabar, named one of the best restaurants in Latin America by The World's 50 Best. Once there, we went over exactly what was in season as well as what was necessary for the classics including Ceviche, Leche de Tigre, and Lomo Soltado. We found ourselves mesmerized by wild fruits, Amazonian berries, nuts and spices, as well as hard-to-pronounce produce, that really only thrive in the unparalleled conditions native to Peru. 

Once we had completed a thorough tour through Surquillo, we all went, by car, to the top floor of Malabar restaurant. Here we put on our aprons and gloves, and began to learn (from the best) the ins and outs of what makes a totally classic ceviche. I learned that simply put, a ceviche really is only five basic ingredients: sushi grade fresh fish, lime, cilantro, onion, and salt. Any additional ingredients are added to create a rendition customized by the palette of the inventor.

Leche de Tigre, is a whole other monster entirely. Most commonly known in Peru as one of the best hangover cures after a late night, this salty, spicy, and acidic sauce is always in high demand around Lima. Traditionally, Leche de Tigre, (which is essentially a sexfied version of the juice already found in ceviche) is made from a specific type of lime known as Sutil. This key-lime sized citrus, is typically only found in the northern region of Peru, in Piura. From there, you add scraps of the leftover fish, unused from your ceviche cut. **fun fact the breakdown of the protein during this step is what gives the juice its white color (hence the name leche.)

At this point, you can really add anything you think would make a great sauce including: garlic, cilantro, ginger, onion, peppers (whether for heat or simply flavor) and any other flavorful ingredient you can get your hands on. Each chef has their own interpretation of the quintessential Leche de Tigre, which makes ceviche-tasting a must while traveling through Peru. 

Throughout the entire learning and cooking process, the chef also described how each flavor profile, paired accordingly with the variety of Cusquena beers, which are locally brewed in Cusco. Their selections ranged from wheat, and red to their classic golden lager and more full bodied Negra.

The restaurant tour, market visit, and cooking class all came to a glorious close as we gathered around a family-style table and devoured our delectable concoctions. I always enjoy a local cooking class, as I believe the fastest way into the heart of a culture is really through your stomach. 

Hakkasan: Opulent Cantonese with a Modern Twist

Sauntering through the dark corridors, the modern architecture and tantalizing smell of Cantonese fare reminded me of a luxe shanghai coven. This sophisticated culinary den, seemed to be thousands of miles from New York's overpopulated and chaotic theatre district that happened to dwell just outside the restaurant's doors. 

Hakkasan, a London-based upscale Chinese restaurant, sure pays attention to the details. Whether it's the mixologist crafting up a custom cocktail, or the focused chef perfecting the dim sum delicacies within the bamboo basket this nightlife hotspot is fully on point.

We dined on jasmine tea smoked pork ribs, scallop, prawn, and black pepper duck dim sum, along with melt-in-your-mouth crispy cod. The spread was rich, indulgent, and exceptionally seasoned. Each dish had its own profile yet somehow still paired perfectly with our Chilean, Lapostolle Cuvée Alexandre. 

While prices are steep, the scene is lively, flavors are bold, and the wine list extensive.

Cooking Class in Verona, Italy

After turning down a narrow, cobblestoned street in Verona, I walked into the open-air kitchen to embark on a culinary journey. We were greeted by a lovely local chef named Christina, who was as charming and lovable as all her traditional Italian recipes. The menu was set, from bruschetta and homemade tagliatelle to risotto with Amarone and a personal sized tiramisu. We were going to slice, bake, boil, and devour Veronese classics.

The way Christina spoke about everything she did, from how to knead the pasta dough, to her affections for her favorite basil plant, showed our intimate six-person class just how much passion goes into making a homemade meal. 

Learning all the recipes from her Grandmother, she shared with us just how thin to slice the pasta, how to gently fold the egg whites in the tiramisu, and how to sip from the Amarone as you make your risotto. 

No matter where in the world I travel to, I always seek out a local cooking class. Because at the end of the day, tasting and making traditional recipes, with local ingredients is an entirely new way to understand a places deep, rich culture. Because, after all, there's honestly no better way to experience a place then through delectable meals made with love and new friends.

Dinner at Harvey Restaurant || Williamsburg Hotel

On a wintery Saturday evening, we found ourselves cuddling into a red banquet and dining beneath the warm hue of twinkling lights. The "New American Fare" that makes up the menu at Harvey Restaurant in the Williamsburg Hotel is as locally sourced as it is diverse. 

This recently opened establishment boasts incredible healthy options like vegan pizzas, spaghetti squash cacio e pepe, and charred octopus. Chef Kevin Chun, who thanks his mother for his love of cooking, really understands the balance between flavor and ingredient. 

Whether you are a guest of the hotel or a seasoned Williamsburg hipster, this quiet little hotspot is the perfect place to get a thoughtfully delicious meal and strong cocktail.  

A Weekend Getaway to Napa Valley

After traveling to some of the best wine regions in the world including: Tuscany, Bordeaux, Burgandy, Stellenbosch, and Rioja… It’s hard to believe anything can come close to the scale and history behind these far away vineyards. Yet the combination of incredible farm to table restaurants, quaint boutique hotels, and a robust award-winning wine scene in our own back yard makes Napa Valley region absolutely worth the trip. 

I flew straight into San Fransisco, rented a convertible Jaguar on Turo, and embarked on a whirlwind, romantic weekend getaway through our countries own iconic wine destination. Below is my guide to doing Napa Valley in style.

Where to Stay:

Bardessono Hotel and Spa

Just ten miles north of Napa, you'll find the modern, warm, and welcoming oasis of Bardessono Hotel and Spa. Placed perfectly in the quaint town of Yountville, it thrives by providing an exclusive escape while also remaining environmentally conscious. 

The service and privacy at Bardessono allow you to feel miles away from the more congested parts of the Napa area, yet some of the regions best restaurants and wine bars lay just outside the hotel doors.

The rooms in this "green" hotel more closely resemble luxurious apartment complexes, complete with gas-fireplaces, whirlpool jacuzzis, and outdoor patios with private rain showers. The amenities are as vast as they are tech-savvy. From windows that automatically shade after leaving the room, to two large flatscreen smart TV's on opposite sides of the suite, allowing you entertainment from every angle. 

Complete with a lap pool, farm to table restaurant, and spa treatments that can be scheduled in-suite, Bardessono is truly one of the best places to call home for your next wine country jaunt.

Hotel Yountville

Stepping up onto the cobblestones towards the long pool, one would guess that they're at a private estate in the depths of Tuscany. Yet the Hotel Yountville blends modern hotel amenities with rustic farmhouse vibes in the heart of Napa Valley. Each room feels like it's own cottage, complete with jacuzzi tubs, fireplaces, and flatscreen TV. 

With an incredibly attentive staff and nightly wine happy hours this boutique hotel quickly sets in as a perfect home away from home. Copper accents, large timber beams, and Napa river rocks create a warm and inviting ambiance that complements the natural scenery. Hotel Yountville is also walking distance to some of the finest restaurants and wine bars in the region. This oasis is as quaint as it is private, making this a perfect place to bunk on your next trip to wine country.

Where to Eat:

Lucy Restaurant

After a beautiful tour through an on-property garden, it became quite clear that the cultivated dishes at Lucy are not only crafted from what’s growing around them but truly embodies a wholesome “field-to-fork” mentality. 

The wonderful thing about this quaint restaurant is the variety. Not only do they have options for the red-wine-drinking “meat lovers”, they also offer some of the freshest seafood in the area. Nurturing close relationships with all local vendors from lamb to dairy farmers, you are guaranteed to get the freshest ingredients and vino from the prosperous land around you. 

Opt for their classic hand rolled gnocchi in a kale-tartufata pesto, or try the opulent figs and foie gras, complete with brioche prosciutto and a basil meringue. Pair these delicious delicacies with a wide array of wine from their grand list and indulge in the flavor, texture, and variety that makes Lucy a truly fantastic place to dine.

Bistro Don Giovanni

An Italian haven-away-from-home is just one way to describe the dining experience at Bistro Don Giovanni. This destination evokes the feeling of being at a summer country home with an airy terrace resembling that of the Mediterranean. The bistro is a seasonal friendly restaurant that offers a handcrafted menu, serving freshly baked breads and homemade pastas and pizzas, along with daily specials that are cultivated from Napa Valley's local farms.

Select choices from the wood-burning oven from the classic Margherita to their heirloom and squash blossom pizza. In Winter months, guests can still enjoy dining under the stars next to the fireplace on the enclosed terrace. The local wine selection and signature cocktails such as the Bistro Negroni complement the many flavors from the ever-changing menu. In Summer months, dining alfresco makes for an extraordinary experience alongside the sprawling gardens and vineyards. 

What to Do

Wine Train

There is nothing quite like the nostalgic sounds aboard a 1919 Pullman train car as it passes romantically through the vineyards of Napa Valley. Sipping champagne and devouring a deconstructed eggs Benedict we began our Collective Tour aboard the Napa Valley Wine Train. 

With hardly an planning, driving, or researching involved there is honestly no better way to experience all that the wineries of the area have to offer. All of the itineraries are organized for you with luxury air-conditioned coaches bringing you from the train to each vineyards doorstep. 

On this thoughtful journey, you will visit some of the most well-known and sought after wineries in the area. After each tasting, you are greeted back on the beautiful mahogany train by a new epicurean course. From breakfast and lunch, to cheeses, refreshing snacks and dessert this gourmet element is exactly what is needed for a full day of wine tasting.

Jordan Winery and Estate

Everyone has their opinions on which vineyards to visit when touring the wine country in Napa Valley. With so many options to choose from, not to mention the multitude of new and emerging regions, the selections can often be dizzying. There is however, one estate that goes far beyond your basic tour, taste, and spit (or if you're like me gulp, gulp, gulp).

Nestled in the hills of Healdsburg, in the Alexander Valley, lies the Jordan Estate and Vineyard. This vast yet robust property, complete with acres of grapes, goats, cattle, olive groves, lakes, and gardens is an oasis of flavor, texture, and variety. Focusing on agriculture, conservation, and hospitality... Jordan Estate more closely resembles a chateau in France thanks to the original fascination and dedication Tom and Sandy Jordan had with their favorite region, Bordeaux. 

This also explains why Jordan Winery only produces Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay (with Champagne made offsite). The family only went into business once they had found a winemaker who could properly replicate their favorite Bordeaux blends. 

Jordan Winery offers a small variety of tours that are interactive, personal, and multi-dimensional. From library tastings to a fully immersive estate tour, there is plenty to explore, taste, and savor.

Five Star Dining at Madera Restaurant

Nestled among the hills of Menlo Park, lies a gastronomic gem within the luxurious Rosewood Sand Hill Resort. With an upscale chalet vibe and roaring fireplaces, Madera restaurant fully embodies all that you’ve come to expect from California’s robust culinary scene. From farm-to-table delicacies to an unfathomable wine list, this spot is as popular for a business lunch as it is for a 5-course sit down dinner.

A large patio with sweeping views of the Santa Cruz mountains provides the perfect backdrop for an indulgent and inventive meal inspired by the history and culture of the local region. For the first course opt for a fresh heirloom tomato salad picked daily from nearby farms, or try their incredibly decadent cured sockeye salmon with yuzo mayo and fennel blossoms. All dishes are perfectly balanced playing with a multitude of flavor and texture. 

Whether you are staying in the area or are looking for a culinary escape just outside of San Francisco, this incredible destination truly delivers on all accounts. 

Brunch Time at Jack's Wife Freda

My stomach spoke to me loud and clear as I meandered down the busy streets of Soho in Manhattan. It was time to eat! My friend and I popped into the ever insta-famous spot Jack’s Wife Freda for a classic avocado toast, matcha latte, and warm grain bowl.

Although this spot is always buzzing with influence shooting their bites, it’s still a delicious place to hide away for a mid-week lunch.

Breakfast in Bed at Llangoed Hall

There is nothing that says vacation to me more then ordering breakfast in bed. So when I woke up to warm flakey biscuits, freshly brewed tea, local clotted cream, and all the jellies and preserves a girl could dream of… it felt like heaven on earth. 

This was honestly what I would imagine as I would sit around a table with my sister and our dolls pouring tea out of Fisher Price plastic cups! In my imagination as a child, I was in a big, comfy bed, with long flowing locks, devouring the best cakes and teas imaginable. 

So needless to say, I love taking this time in the morning to wake up, collect my thoughts, savor in the goodness of fresh baked goods, and play princess with my big squishy robe and elegant interiors. 

It’s sometimes so surreal to realize the silly things you imagined as a child can come true in your adult life. It’s times like these that you have to honor and cherish that simple, wild imagination you still have within you. Unabashedly listening to this inner voice allows you the freedom to manifest your dreams and make them a reality.

Healthy Lunch Spot in Boracay

As Boracay is a party island, it should come as no surprise that there are burger joints, pizza places, and junk food options-a-plenty to cure any hangover spell from a long night out. I however, was on a hunt for the opposite. I was craving fresh green juice, yogurt and granola, and the Philippines infamously sweet and juicy mango. 

In the bustling outdoor mall (D Mall) along the beach in Station Two, sits a small cafe with clean white settings, touches of greenery, and an extremely healthy menu. Lemon Cafe is the perfect place to grab a late breakfast or lunch before soaking up the rays on the beach. They have plenty of vegan, gluten free, and vegetarian options should this be your MO. 

We ordered the eggs benedict, tropical fruit plate, scrambled eggs, and mango yogurt parfait. We also split a green juice and banana, peanut butter smoothie that was absolutely to die for. While prices for this small cafe are definitely closer to that in the states then on the islands, this spot is an absolute go-to when craving heathy snacks, or a fresh juice before a day at the beach. 

Where to Stay Spotlight: Mandala Spa Boracay

Boracay has recently got a bad rap. Locals with the common complaint of overcrowding from tourists, mom and pop bakeries replaced by McDonalds and Pizza Huts, and beautiful beaches speckled with liter from last night’s party. All of these signs force you to believe this island may have already seen it’s prime. Then you arrive at the Mandala Spa and Resort on the south side of the island, and everything starts to feel right again. 

This lush and luxurious oasis with a health-conscious vibe is nestled in the hilltop of the up-and-coming Station 3. From the digital detox garden bungalows to the spa-like pool villas with sweeping views of the pristine beaches below, this family run resort is equally as intimate as it is comfortable. 

Mornings brought in with fresh squeezed mango juice, quinoa pancakes, and homemade granola made me question if I somehow transported to a boutique hotel in West Hollywood. The well-appointed spa, daily yoga in the expansive onsite studio, and friendly staff create the perfect escape from all the hustle and bustle of busy streets below. 

We lounged by the infinity pool, played our favorite tunes, ate healthy snacks, did yoga, got massages, and finally felt like we were feeling and seeing the simple magic that this island has to offer. From the warm smiles from the happy staff, to the way the garden lights wink at your on the way to your room… this resort is more than just a hotel, it’s a fully immersive escape.

Vagabond Bites: Tasting Menu at Beau Constantia

I had never known South Africa to be a complete gastronomic metropolis. I had understood and tasted the many varietals and vivacious wines of the various regions within the country. Yet was completely shocked to find the food in and around Cape Town to be some of the freshest, healthiest, and completely eco-conscientious grub around. 

With more vegan bakeries and gluten-free options than you can shake a stick at, you may just confuse this incredible city for the likes of Laguna Beach... and then you go to Beau Constantia. A winery and chef’s kitchen located a short 20 minute drive from central Cape Town that is as charming as it is sinful. 

We opted for the seven course tasting menu for two, which ended up being more than enough for three realistically.  The combination of flavor, texture, and depth of each dish, paired so seamlessly with their incredible wine pairings. From the risotto to the lamb shank, there wasn’t an element overlooked.

After a full and hearty lunch, served tapas style, we meandered through the vineyards, sipped vintages, and absorbed the beautiful combination of an innovative menu, modern design, and a quintessential winery. Beau Constantia is an absolute must do when visiting South Africa. It has all the charm of the Winelands, right in Cape Town’s backyard. 

Traditional Taiwanese Breakfast

After an insanely long day of traveling yesterday, I went NYC-Detroit-Tokyo-Taipei, I set myself up for success with the jet lag by staying up when it was day time. I arrived at my girlfriend Maggie’s beautiful townhouse in downtown Taipei and passed straight out. 

I woke refreshed, and ready for the day at 8am… not too bad for day one. As I walked into the kitchen, I began to smell an incredible mix of warm rice, soy-shallot stewed pork, and garlic sautéed greens. It was miles away from the pancakes and waffles of home, and EXACTLY what I needed to start my busy day. 

Maggie then explained to me that this stewed pork is a famous family recipe and was a staple of hers growing up. We poured the delicious secret family heirloom over a bed of rice soup aka congee, think of rice as an oatmeal consistency. We then poured a sweeter “breakfast” soy concoction over our over-medium eggs, added the hallow-stem greens and totally went to town. 

We topped it all off with small dashes of fish floss, I know it sounds insane but it's actually amazing. Think of it as an Asian version of bacon bits, only made with fish. This was the best way to kickoff my time in Taipei and a definite must try while on this amazing island. 

Sneaky & Savory Shopping at Suculenta

I nearly walked right past this unmarked hidden treasure. The music in the streets was bumping, the colorful flowers and masked strangers nearly distracted me, but I somehow found this savory little shop in the bustling streets of Oaxaca during Dia de los Muertos. This mystical shop, I later learned was called Suculenta. It smelled of a wild mix of fresh herbs, cedar wood, and peppercorn upon entering which of course peaked my curiosity. 

I was warmly greeted by the only woman in the shop, who was mixing an organic mustard on a steel table and pouring it into small glass jars. I was fascinated. It was like an apothecary for pickles, jams, compotes, and spices. I went through the tester jars that were gathered on the table and was blown away by the local flavors and ingredients. They create and hand craft everything from edible oils, cheeses, and compotes to wild mushrooms from the Sierra Norte. Everything is then bottled and placed around the store on custom built wooden shelving and old antique scales. 

My favorite things on the shelves were the dill pickles, the organic honey with cardamom, and the spicy mustard I got to sample. Oaxaca is known for their incredible food, culture, and rich traditions… but the shopping is also absolutely amazing. If you are in Oaxaca, I definitely recommend popping into this sneaky little shop for a sweet and savory expedition. 

You can find Suculenta down the street from Boulanc bakery on Av. Porfirio Diaz, in the unmarked light blue building. If it’s open, the door is open. 

Xx

A Healthy Lunch Spot in Barcelona

While I could go on about how amazing it is to eat clean, local ingredients… or tell you the many benefits of a dairy/gluten/meat free diet, I’ll spare you… as there are many opinions, variables, and objectives I don’t wish to delve into. So for the purpose of this post, I am a mere food lover who has a favorite lunch spot, that happens to be extremely health conscious with chic vibes. 

Enter Flax + Kale. An amazing restaurant nestled into the trendy Raval neighborhood in Barcelona, where the options are all equally as tantalizing and delicious as they are healthy. This haven has something for every health food nut but could also fool any diehard foodie looking for a hearty meal. 

My friend and I started with juices and smoothies, with my personal favorite being the Frappe Mocha, pictured above, that has almond milk, cold-brewed coffee made in house, ice, frozen young coconut, dates, raw cocoa, and agave. I also ordered a turmeric chai drink that was spicy and creamy with a totally new flavor. 

We then ordered a few appetizers to share including a coconut and mushroom toast which was totally different then anything I’ve ever tasted, thanks to the combination of the earthy mushroom with a nutty sweet coconut twist. The beetroot tuna tartare is a staple that shouldn’t be missed, along with the crunchy fish tacos and double black cod that legitimately melted in my mouth. 

Not into fish? Fear not, there are tons of vegetarian/vegan options ranging from a raw vegan lasagna, to a to-die-for mezze plate covered in hummus, aborigine, quinoa, pumpkin and more. 

The menu is coded so that you can quickly assess exactly what you’re ordering, while keeping in mind your personal preferences. They list everything from: GF: Gluten Free, RF: Raw Food, PB: Plant Based, to OF: Oily Fish. 

After traveling around Europe for a while, it can be challenging to find healthy options that aren’t either filled with crap, or tastes like crap. To be honest, Flax + Kale is doing it completely right. You leave their charming establishment satisfied, nourished, and really incredible about yourself. 

Maybe that’s why their slogan is Eat Better. Be happier. Live longer. Honestly couldn’t agree more… Xx

Sangria and Siestas in Madrid

Sometimes when I find myself in a new city, I feel an anxious urgency to discover, explore and see all there is to see. But on days like today, when the plane ride is gruesome, the weather is boiling, and the exhaustion is real... I take a full day to do almost nothing at all.

I have to remind myself that it's ok to find a calm terrace and just relax like a local with no agenda. To step back from the hustle and bustle and just be in a city. 

It's then, that you hear conversations between old friends, that you notice the bartender pull the wild strawberries from his farmers market tote for your fresh sangria, then that you smell the combination of herbs and leeks being prepared for the days Vichyssoise.

So today I did just that. I relaxed at Saporem, in the bustling center of Madrid. I sipped sangria, and eventually snuck upstairs to my bed at the Room007 Hostel for an authentic Spanish siesta. 

While it may not be very eventful, it was exactly what I needed to start my trip in Spain off right. 

Lunch at Lake Bled

When I arrived into the town of Bled, after being in the car for over three hours... All I wanted was to see the bright blue lake, smell the wildly fresh air, and be fully submerged in nature. The beyond picturesque Lake Bled, is a glacial lake in the Julian Alps and was one of the most breathtaking places I have ever been. 

I explored the medieval castle on the north shore, and watched as small boats, paddle boarders, and rowers cut across the cerulean wonder below. I watched as men dressed in renaissance outfits, created custom letters and certificates on their reconstructed Gutenberg printing machines. I bought a coin that was imprinted by hand, with a large metal hammer that had the outline of the castle. The coins were to commemorate the 1000 year anniversary of castle, which is beyond mind blowing to think about. It is said to be the oldest castle in Slovenia. 

After taking in all the incredible surroundings, I didn't want to leave. So I didn't, we grabbed a table with the best view atop the castle at Bled Castle restaurant and dined on classic Slovenien fare. From a local cheese and charcuterie plate, to the most delicious handmade ravioli stuffed with Carniolan sausage, which is a famous Slovenian staple.

There was nothing quite like taking in that gorgeous view, while dining on some of the best gourmet food in the country. Lake bled is an absolutely wonderful place to visit and should be on every avid travelers bucket list. 

Welcome to the Motel Mexicola

Meandering down a tiny side street speckled with glass windowed pockets of air conditioning to accompany the bohemian, surfer-chic outfittings... you'll come across an oasis. An eclectically bright paradise straight out of a south-of-the-border bond film (if there was such a thing). 

Where agave pours like nectar and the "comida mexicana" becomes as refreshing as the sea breeze itself. 

It's no wonder the Motel Mexicola in Seminyak is one of my favorite places to dine in Bali. 

The combination of rich red and baby blue hues against white washed wood with a splash of tropical greenery creates a rustic 1960's Acapulco vibe unassumingly near the beach, yet a bit off the beaten path within bustling Seminyak.

For drinks order one of their killer Margarita Verde's, made with fresh cucumber, red and green chili, a pinch of salt, and lime juice. Or opt for their fresh squeezed juices like their pineapple and coconut water, complete with a denim pocket coaster. 

Food is casual Mexican but extremely tasty from tacos, tosados, and rollos to hearty mains and classic desserts. Motel Mexicola is a wonderful place if your looking to escape the curries, tom yams, and nasi gorengs of Bali in hopes of a twist of flavor, with flare and spice in a charming setting. 

Lunch at Edible Canada

After a long weekend spent skiing the sunny slopes of Whistler... I had a full day to explore Vancouver before my flight back to NYC. I ventured over to Granville Island, which was a short "Aqua Bus" ride away from our apartment in Yaletown. Here we strolled the aisles of produce and products at the public market and pondered the arts and crafts of many small local shops along the water. 

After working up an appetite, my girlfriend and I took the recommendation of a good friend and pulled up a barstool to the open-kitchen dining at Edible Canada. 

This incredibly inviting and lively bistro serves up authentic Canadian classics, infused with modern and ethnic influences. From Oxtail Poutine to Yukon Arctic Char, Edible Canada focuses on local, sustainable, and seasonal ingredients that showcase all that Canada's diverse cultures, farmers, and artisans have to offer. 

Edible Canada opened its doors six years ago and operates as a full service bistro, an artisanal retail and online store, as well as a tours/events company. 

The store, located near the back of the restaurant, is a foodie haven that offers the highest quality Canadian-made gourmet items that are handpicked by Eric Pateman (the founder) and his retail team. Products range from maple syrup and smoked salmon, to more exclusive products like Amola's bacon or truffle salts as well as custom gift baskets. 

They also offer food tours in and around Vancouver including: Granville Island Market Tour, Worlds Best Food Truck Tour, as well as a Guilty Pleasures Gourmet Tour. In addition to these walking/guided tours, Edible Canada also offers monthly market dinners from cultures and chefs around the world including: Lebanon, China, Japan, and Peru as well as a Canadian dinner series serving local wines and fare. 
 
For my lunch at the bistro, I started off with a glass of Pinot Gris from Naramata (as per the servers recommendation). I scanned the mouthwatering menu and stopped at the Northern Alberta Elk Tartare. 

Now I'm not a huge meat person, let alone a raw red meat person... But once my interest was peaked I asked the server what was the most unique and daring choice, and she led me straight back to the Elk Tartare. 

So naturally I went for it. 

It consisted of hand-chopped raw elk, a truffle aioli, Biota mustard, and grilled bread. The meat was fresh, lean, and delicious. The combination of the truffle aioli, mustard, and quail egg on top created an explosion of flavors and textures with every bite.

After all that meat, I opted for a light salad that consisted of smoked sturgeon & salmon, a soft boiled egg, citrus, mint, sprouted pulses, grilled greens, spiced seeds, with a white miso vinaigrette. 

I was so impressed by the food, atmosphere, and concept of this company that I absolutely had to write about it. Whether or not you are a foodie... The Granville Island market and Edible Canada is an amazing way to spend an afternoon discovering all that Vancouver and Canada as a whole have to offer.