Cooktales Travels: 24 Perfect Hours in Ravello

We started our 2-week Amalfi Coast/Greece adventure in Ravello, and while we wish we would’ve had one more day there, we did A LOT in 24 hours. We actually did so much and had such a perfect experience, I didn’t leave feeling like we missed very much when it was time to leave the next day. Ravello is a small place atop a mountain with views for days of the Amalfi Coast water. It’s relaxing and the food is fabulous. It ended up being the perfect start to our trip, as we got to relax off some of the jetlag. I recommend it as a starting place if you’re hopping the Amalfi Coast, as it’s more serene with less chaos than the other popular beach towns. Rather than list my food recs the way I normally do, I’m going to break this one down for you in sequence, so you get the idea of how you can actually do this lovely place in 24 hours. Here we go!

10:30am – Land in Naples. Apparently you can train and bus all over the Amalfi Coast, but Ravello is right at one hour’s drive, so we opted to go by car. Our hotel had a car service that made it easy peasy. We simply landed, found our driver, and were in the car in no time.

12:00pm – Check into hotel. Ok, guys… Ravello is full of fancy, fabulous hotel options. Here’s my advice: spluge on this one. It’s important to have a hotel here with 1) views and 2) a pool because that’s pretty much all you’re going to do here as the water is way down the winding mountain. We visited all of the top hotels (you can have lunch, dinner, and drinks at all of them) and I think the hotel we stayed at, Villa Cimbrone, was best for a quick experience. Why? One of the top attractions in Ravello is the Villa Cimbrone Gardens – they’re beautiful and the views you get from here are the best in Ravello. The gardens of our hotel were PACKED full during the day so we decided to wait until the next morning to visit. Here’s the kicker and why our hotel was the absolute best: We woke up early and explored the gardens before they were even open. We got to walk around the place like we owned it, and because no one else was there, we got the BEST pictures you could ever get of the famous head sculptures. These statues over the coast are iconic and we got to be all alone with them. Had we not stayed here, we would’ve been elbowing left and right to just get one picture without someone in it. Just look at these pictures – this is THE place to stay if you want a private experience of the gardens.

1:00pm – Lunch. We’d heard how amazing Belmond Hotel Caruso was as we had friends who stayed there, so it only made sense to pay this hotel a visit. It’s extra fancy and really spectacular, and their restaurant Belvedere was exquisite and the perfect first Italian meal overlooking the water. Their wood-fired pizzas are life and the marinated anchovies were lovely. If you go here to eat, walk around the hotel grounds. They’re gorgeous and the infinity pool gets the “best pool in Ravello” award.

3:00pm – Relax at the pool. I adored our hotel’s pool and after a long day of travel, we couldn’t wait to take a dip and lounge with a bottle of wine. We planned a nap but enjoyed ourselves too much to actually take one. The pool at Villa Cimbrone is beyond dreamy – it’s like being in a cozy, quiet garden oasis.  I love a pool surrounded by greenery and flowers, and that’s just what this was. It was the perfect afternoon for tired travelers.

7:00pm – Sunset snacks and drinks. Also having the reputation of one of the best hotels in Ravello, we decided to go to Palazzo Avino for sunset, and I can’t imagine having gone anywhere else for it. This is THE place to watch the sunset in Ravello. Their terrace is something you only see in dreams. I would go on describing it, but I will leave you with the photos. Our cocktails came with the best Castelvetrano olives I’ve ever had in life and a sampler platter of savory goodies. We saw a lot of sunsets on this trip – pretty much 2 weeks of the most perfect sunsets every evening and this particular setting was one of the most memorable.

9:30pm – Dinner. I’ll be honest, all the beautiful pictures I saw of Ravello and they weren’t what made me want to visit. Truthfully, what brought us to Ravello was Trattoria da Cumpa'Cosimo for dinner. I remember telling Tres, I really just want to go to Ravello to eat at this restaurant because I keep reading it’s stellar, perfect Italian food. It was just that, but the experience made it even better. Our waiter pretty much ordered for us – bringing us the appetizer sampler to start, the pasta sampler, and limoncello to finish. I mean… pasta sampler? Could you ask for more?! He did everything for us from the wine choice to the order and it was casual, delicious fun!

 12:00am – Sleep. Finally sleep.

 7:00am – Walk the Villa Cimbrone Gardens. I think I already elaborated on this enough above, but I will say it again. There was nothing like having these typical crowded gardens and views all to ourselves. We watched the sunrise and took about 2,000 pictures because I promise if you come here, you wont be able to stop taking pictures. It was worth getting up early! *There’s only one downside to this experience. There IS a (secret) bar right below the views, down a set of stairs from the statues. I wouldn’t have minded having a cocktail here, but it wasn’t open at 7:00am.

 9:00am – Breakfast on the hotel’s drop dead gorgeous terrace. I am not a breakfast person and usually don’t mind skipping it – I save every bit of room in my belly for lunch and dinner – but the breakfast here was relaxing, lovely, and delicious. A great sendoff.

 11:00am – Get in the hotel car and head to Il Pirata in Praiano for lunch. I have to mention this too about our hotel. We had lunch reservations at Il Pirata – it was one of the first things I booked for the entire trip. We weren’t staying in Praiano, we were actually headed to Positano, but I was determined to eat at this restaurant. So the hotel recommended dropping us off in Praiano and drove to Positano to drop our bags off. And thank the good Lord they did. Because to get to the restaurant, one must hike down the bottom part of a mountain. I had no idea, and thanks to our hotel, we weren’t dragging our bags down the side of a cliff. Whew! Bullet dodged.

Truly a dream, Ravello is a must-visit if you take a trip to the Amalifi Coast. But just know, you CAN actually do this little city in a day - however, I wouldn’t blame you if you wanted to stay longer. The little town area is adorable, and had we more time, we would’ve spent a day tooling around all the outdoor patios and beautiful restaurants. But if you do it in 24 hours, I’m telling you, THIS is your perfect guide!

Cooktales Travels: Guide to Mykonos

Here’s the thing about Mykonos: it’s more fun with a group of friends. We had just finished up a slightly quiet, more relaxing 3 days in Santorini before heading to Mykonos, the so-called “party island” where a few of our friends also happened to be holidaying at the same time. Once we got there, I was glad to experience it with a group – especially this group, as they are Mykonos veterans having vacationed there every year for the past 6 years.

While we did our fair share of partying, I think you could do this island any way you wanted to – yes, there is a party vibe going on but you could very well relax on this island if that’s your jam. I actually found it to be more posh than party. Diva, over the top, boujee folks everywhere – and dressed to the absolute nines. Not to mention the décor everywhere is beyond – stone, wood, neutrals – pretty much how I want our next home decorated, and I may have taken more photos of décor than of the actual island. Imagine the outdoor section of Restoration Hardware everywhere you go. Mykonos is definitely a glam town.

So what do you do in Mykonos? Here’s my advice: go to a nice beach club during the day on one of the many fabulous beaches (avoiding Paradise Beach if you’re not ready to rock extreme Vegas style), have a nice lunch scheduled at the beach club restaurant, find somewhere to watch the sunset, have dinner scheduled in Mykonos town, and if you’re into it, party the night away! Y’all know what I really want to talk about though - the food and drink. Here’s my full guide to how to do Mykonos right!

Where to Eat: 

Scorpios - Best catch of the day we had on the entire trip. And that’s saying a lot as we did the fresh catch at almost every meal and they were all to die for. It was the sea bream this day and the olive oil/lemon dressing they pour over it is life. I’m going to try to recreate it until it’s nailed.. unbelievable. Also their dip trio and cocktails on the deck are a perfect treat (and super relaxing) while waiting for the restaurant to open. 

Kiki’s Tavern - Every person who has traveled here and many locals will recommend this place. It’s not terribly easy to get to but worth the cab ride. The food is fresh perfection. It’s the epitome of clean, fresh food at its most simple, yet it’s most grand. Be prepared to wait. It’s a tiny little place overlooking a stunning beach. There are no reservations and no list. The owner literally takes your name at the door and points at the person you’re behind. Always at least an hour wait but bring your beach towel, swimsuit, and enjoy the view and bottomless boxed wine! 

Koursaros - Pick your fresh fish, add some apps and sides, and have a ball with friends for dinner! We had our first mastic liquor here (Greek after dinner digestif... or shot - whatever you’re going for), and when the guy left us the bottle on the table, it got a bit crazy.

Nammos - One of my favorite meals of the trip, and this was actually one we opted out of the fresh fish - only because all the dishes looked delicious and they were! Get the Nammos salad whatever you do. I have literally never had a salad this good, and I plan on making it my life goal to practice recreating it to eat at home every single day for lunch! 

Souvlaki Story - Greece’s fabulous version of fast food. Everything in Mykonos is SO nice, modern, and beautiful. That apparently goes for their fast food joints too. Setting that aside, this is the best gyro you’ll ever eat. I recommend the chicken in pita with sauce and ask them to add their little lettuces to it. I did fries on one and no fries on another - I preferred the no fries but do your thing. Fast food at its very finest! 

Interni - We had our last dinner here and it was a great meal to end on. If anything, go for the ambiance alone - the courtyard setting is beautiful. I had the sea bass and it had this fabulous truffle broth it sat in that was beyond divine. Tres’ squid ink tagliatelle was also amazing, and I plan to recreate it when I get home. The gnocchi with figs is a must-order appetizer, as is the octopus carpaccio. 

Bill and Coo Hotel - As I mentioned before, our friends have done this trip every year for 6 years, so they were our guides. They stay at Bill and Coo every trip, and after a visit to their pool one afternoon, I can see why. The infinity pool and views are beautiful! The restaurant faces it, so if you eat here, you’ll get all the views. I can’t speak for the food as I sadly didn’t have it, but they have great taste in food and said the burgers, sliders, and every bite is amazing. 

Ling Ling - Another rec from our friends that we didn’t do. The food here is supposed to be amazing. I saw the place and it looked like loads of the typical Mykonos scene fun. I will normally not recommend things I don’t try myself, but these guys have great taste in food so I trust their judgement to add to my guide.

Bakery - If you have a sweet tooth, this authentic Greek bakery is right in Mykonos town and their treats will make you fall to your knees. Get the mini chocolate croissants and the custard filled philo. 

Where to drink: 

Nammos - Our favorite beach club of the trip. Quite possibly our favorite day of the trip. Advice: go early to get a chair or you won’t. Some of the reviews of this place are bad, but I quickly learned, you either show up on time (right before they open) or you don’t get a chair. People are DIVAS in Mykonos y’all, and I think everyone who walked in the place thought the whole world revolved around them and their group. I saw so many people get ugly with the guys and gals with the list at the front door. I even talked to one of the guys who seats people, and he said, “Simple as this, show up early and you’ll get a chair. Don’t, and you won’t. We don’t care who you are.” We got there just in the nick of time and got the last couple of chairs left and it was THE MOST FUN, RELAXING DAY EVER! Beautiful beach, best people watching I’ve ever seen, amazing outfits everywhere you look, gorgeous staff, fancy drinks, beautiful water to take a dip in. Pretty much the works! Make sure you have a reservation at the restaurant too - food is unreal! 

Scorpios - This place is head to toe gorgeous, fancy perfection. It’s the fanciest of the beach clubs in Mykonos. And different from Nammos as they take reservations for beach chairs in advance and book up sometimes two weeks before so plan accordingly. We did not make a reservation so just hung out on the drop dead gorgeous deck before our lunch reservation. You can still enjoy drinks and bites without having a beach chair and the lunch here was beyond. The decor at this place is unreal - I decided it’s exactly how I want our next home to look. At night, they take separate reservations for their “Sunset Ritual.” We didn’t stay for it and I have no idea what it is, but it sounded like a blast! 

Queen - This is a wild one and at night it gets absolutely crazy. We went every night and had a ball. Their cocktails are amazing! If they still have it, get the strawberry one that comes in a coupe. It’s one of the best drinks I’ve ever had! 

Argo - Our friends are regulars here on their yearly Mykonos vacation. And I love love loved our time here! Cool vibes, fun music, great bartenders. 

Galleraki - Best sunset ever! Tiny little place with sunset views on one side and the famous Windmill views on the other. Get reservations and get there early. Tables are given away quick here at sunset. 

Ice Bar - This was a random, ridiculous, silly stop and we were all very reluctant but said, let’s just go in to take a picture. And when we got in there was laughed so hard we were crying and had the quickest 5-minutes of fun ever. This tiny place can fit 8 people at most and it’s an ice bar. They give you obnoxious, furry jackets to put on. It’s a great little drink (or shots 😬) stop. 

First Timer Guide: South African Safari

Pictures and videos are worth a thousand words, and if you follow me on any social media, you saw exactly that when we were on safari in South Africa. If you can imagine though - as absolutely amazing as every picture and video was that I took - they just don’t do justice what we saw. I’m not quite the crier, and I cried when we left. I have thought about safari every day since we arrived home - literally every day. I have gone through my pictures and looked at my videos more times than I can count (side note: I never look at pics again after I take them unless it’s for a blog or social media post... I seriously don’t know why I take so many). And finally, and maybe most important to mention, I’ve had actual dreams on the regular about this trip since we returned home. All the cool places Tres and I have been lucky to go to, and I have never come home and dreamt about them. Lions, Zebras, Hyenas - they’re dancing around in my head as I slumber. If that doesn’t sum up an unforgettable experience, I don’t know what does.

So let’s talk about it. I will start with a fun story about how bad I have wanted to go on this trip - you may skip to the FAQs if this is not of interest to you, I won’t blame you if you do. But here goes... My entire life I have been obsessed with animals (babies as I call them). I wanted to be a veterinarian growing up but me and science never got along very well in school so I got over that dream. When I met Tres and we talked about where all we hoped to travel in life, all he heard from me was, “If I ever get to go on an African Safari, I don’t ever have to go anywhere else the rest of my life.” So one lovely year in May - 2011 to be exact, and the year after our wedding - we decided to go to the Kentucky Derby. Anyone remember this Derby? It was a good one - a year of the underdog. Well, we were there and before the big race, we placed our bets. Of course, I knew nothing about any of the horses and before I went to place my bet, I didn’t even know any of the horses names. But then I saw “Animal Kingdom” and couldn’t place my bet fast enough. Tres and everyone standing around me laughed when I told them I was betting on this horse. I’ll never forget how many people told me this horse had a negative zero chance of winning. So I said to Tres, “If Animal Kingdom wins, you have to take me on an African Safari.” I’m not a big gambler so I bet a whole $20. Guess what that $20 became? About $1,000. Because my African Safari dream horse won the race!

So years pass, we plan lots and lots of trips but the safari didn’t happen until 2018. It took 7 years and we finally went on my dream vacation. As you can see, I had high expectations. No question, it lived up to all of them. First are a few highlights from the trip that I absolutely loved then you can read the FAQs below to really dig into what the experience is all about - especially if you’re planning one of your own!

Highlights

The ease of planning thanks to the travel company we used - Rhino Africa. Our friends who have been on safari a couple of times recommended these guys and they were dream planners. We even waited until the last minute (a month out) and Rhino Africa got us right on track. We didn’t have to think about a thing, we just showed up in South Africa and it was all done.

The surprisingly quick (17 hour) flight over. We have been on a lot of long international flights but this one... I worked myself up about this one. Seriously, what do you do on a plane for that long? The Delta flight we took from Atlanta to Jo’burg is the 2nd longest flight in the world. But it was actually the easiest international flight we have ever taken. Movies, eat, sleep, sleep some more, and you’re there! I’m always cranky when we go to Europe because I never get enough sleep. There’s PLENTY of time to sleep on a 17 hour flight. When I woke up and Tres said, “we land in 30 minutes,” I thought he was lying so bad I had to look at my flight duration screen. I was refreshed and fabulous when we arrived!

The most amazing lodge - Savanna Private Game Reserve. I cannot recommend Savanna Lodge enough. The beauty of it, the relaxation, the serenity, the fancy “tent” rooms with private plunge pool and outdoor shower with animals in view, the food, the service, the game rides, the staff, the daily laundry service, the nightly turndown service - literally everything! More below and in the FAQs on how fabulous this resort is and why I think you should choose it on your own trip.

The food experiences. Tres and I are not big “all-inclusivers.” As a matter of fact, on any other trip we don’t do them at all - as I’m sure y’all already know, we would rather restaurant hop. But on safari, you don’t really have a choice (you’re in the middle of the bush with the only food being at the resorts) so you want to make sure you choose a lodge with great food. At Savanna, dinner every night is a surprise. You never know what cool experience you’re going to get, but you can always count on twinkly lights, warm and cozy fires, entertainment, beautifully set tables, delicious wine and champagne that flows throughout the night, and fantastic food - from the small bites at social hour to the set courses at the table. More detail about each night in the FAQs below. Aside from the animals, this was my favorite part. Tip: do the restaurant hopping in Cape Town - it’s a food dream. I’ll have a blog post on Cape Town soon.

The game rides. Another part of the “all-inclusive” experience, this is another one you want your lodge to do well. No, actually this is THE ONE THING you want your lodge to do well; after all, you go on safari to see animals so you want the staff to make this an absolute priority. This is Savanna’s priority. According to our travel planner at Rhino Africa, every lodge does things a little differently, and she could not say enough positives about how much of a focus Savanna makes their games rides, so we knew we were in good hands. We had days when we would even stay out a little later to make sure there wasn’t anything we missed. There was no rushing back for lunch/dinner or any type of strict schedule - it was all about seeing the animals. Tres’ biggest concern going on a safari was always, “what if we go all the way there and we could have seen more at a zoo.” The guys at Savannah make sure you see it all - it’s unbelievably cool how much you see, y’all! I can’t put into words how neat it is seeing these animals in their natural environment. And they’re so close - oh my! There were moments when they were so close I could almost touch them. But please, as excited as you may get - don’t do it! You’ll think about it.. You will. That’s how close they are. Just don’t - yikes!

The friends we made. We got incredibly lucky and met some of the coolest people. For 3 days (or however long you stay) you’re doing everything together with your guides and lodge neighbors. Every breakfast, lunch, and dinner you sit down together to eat and have drinks so you get to know the other people there pretty well. We absolutely loved our entire game ride group - all around our age so we had a lot in common. One couple was on their honeymoon from Charleston so we had the south in common with them. The other couple was from Jo’burg so they gave us a lot of restaurant recs for Cape Town and explained to us some of the traditional South African dishes and foods. And our guide, Kevin was simply the best - full of great knowledge and information about the animals and lots of fun to chat with at dinner. I even met a wonderful fellow “woman in business” entrepreneur from London I have kept in touch with since we left. She’s the CEO of Samaya Ayurvedic an amazing skincare company in London, and we are planning a giveaway collaboration soon, so stay tuned!

FAQs

How to plan:

As I discussed above, we used Rhino Africa and could not have been happier. The experience starts with a brief questionnaire on the safari experience of your dreams then the agent contacts you with options. Janine, our travel planner, focused on our priorities, exactly what we wanted to get out of the safari experience. She also focused on the travel we would be doing to Cape Town following the safari - she booked everything from the flights to the car rides when we landed. Everything was smooth sailing, and I’m so glad I didn’t have to figure those flights and the transportation out myself. They will also focus on your price point, giving you the option that best fits what you’re looking for. We almost went with another resort, but Janine immediately contacted me when there was a cancellation at Savanna. We had to change our dates around a bit, but she ensured us Savanna was the way to go. Moral of the story: we booked too late and got extremely lucky with that cancellation. Book earlier than we did :)

Where to stay:

Sabi Sands is the way to go! At least that’s what we heard from family and friends who had been on safari, so we chose a lodge in the Sabi Sands. As for the lodge - Savanna. It was amazing. Read in my highlights above. Like I said, where you stay pretty much IS the experience you’re going to have on safari so you want a good lodge!

How long to go:

We were worried 3 days wasn’t going to be enough time, but it’s plenty. Each day, there are 2 game rides - one in the AM and one in the PM. 3 days = 6 game rides. Would I stay longer? Yes, of course! But we felt like we saw everything we wanted to see in 3 days. Every single ride truly is a completely different experience - you literally never know what’s going to happen. I can see how it could become an addictive hobby if you live in South Africa. The Jo’burg friends we met told us they have been on too many to count - I am so jealous!

What to expect/What you will see:

It’s impossible to know how each ride is going to go - They’re all so unique! We were so lucky that the first ride we took, lions had just taken down a warthog and were feasting. We all but saw the kill - that would have been super cool (or I would have cried)! But just imagine, we get to the lodge, get settled in, jump on the open-air Land Rover, and in minutes we are looking at a pride of lions eating away at a warthog. The next day, Kevin informed us they would be thirsty soon after their kill the day before, and sure enough, we found water near the kill, and here came the same pride of lions to drink. It was “baby season,” so saw a lot of babies with their mamas - baby cubs, baby zebras, baby elephants, a baby rhino, a baby giraffe... so extremely adorable! A leopard walked so close to our car his tail rubbed the sides. I had a hyena look me dead in the eyes one day and started walking towards our car and it got SO CLOSE it was scary. I thought he was after us, but they literally care less about you - it’s amazing.  Elephants were everywhere!!! I think we saw elephants every day, and how close we got to them to watch them eat was so phenomenal. Their trunks and the way they break down food is so neat. The final day, we tracked down a mama lion who had left her cubs to hunt. She was very protective of the kill she’d made - guarding it from vultures that were doing everything in their power to take scraps. A couple of the vultures got bravely close and she came running out of the grass towards them. That was SO intimidating to see the look in that creature’s eyes when she means business - one of the cooler things I’ve seen in life. A lot of this and more is in my Instagram stories - you can actually watch it @andreas_cooktales.

Day to day on safari:

Each day is early-rising but the schedule is at a relaxing pace so you get as much rest as you need. Here’s what our day looked like:

• 4:30am- Wake-up call

• 5:00am- Coffee/Tea, Muffins/Cookies

• 5:30am - MorningGame Ride with a coffee/Amarulo stop in the bush

• 9:30/10:00 - Return to lodge

• 10:00- Freshen up, Breakfast

• Hang out and chat at breakfast for awhile, go back to room to nap or hang out by the pool, freshen up for lunch/afternoon ride

• 3:00 - Lunch

• 4:00 - AfternoonGame Ride with a fun cocktail hour stop in the bush

• 8:00- Return to lodge, turn down service complete with bubble bath ran and port wine waiting, shower or bath, change for dinner

• 9:00- Surprise Dinner

The food and drink:

It’s going to depend on where you stay, so I can only speak to Savanna’s food and drink, and it was fabulous. Your room is stocked with snacks, beer, wine, and all kinds of drink choices. When you arrive to the dining area for each meal, you’re immediately greeted by your very own butler. Dan was ours, and we just loved him! The breakfast every morning was so fresh with a huge cold selection. Anything you wanted hot was made to order + there was a new, daily breakfast special each day - everything from specialty French toast and pancakes to an omelet, sandwich, or wrap “of-the-day.” I had scrambled eggs with avocado every single day. They literally had some of the best scrambled eggs I have ever had, so I kept ordering them. The lunches were one of my favorite parts of the trip. I love cold salads and they had a variety each day: quinoa fruit salads, veggie and grains salads, bean salads, olive and tomato salads. They also had specials of the day like pastas, meats, quiches - the works!! We had a glass of wine or two at lunch and an espresso shot before the afternoon ride.

Dinner was the most fun, as it was always a surprise. Night 1was lantern and campfire lit with the most beautiful set tables. We were immediately approached for drink orders and wild boar sausage and bruschetta were passed around while we walked around chatting with everyone. The seated dinner consisted of salad/soup, delicious outdoor roasted chicken, traditional South African meats, and sides. We were entertained by a local choir group as we ate. They danced around the campfire and sang traditional African music. My favorite part was when they sang me happy early birthday, clapping, and dancing all around my seat. It was all so traditional and fun - such a warm welcome to South Africa! Night 2 was my absolute favorite. I kept telling Tres, I can’t believe we are here. I love this place so much. We went straight from our game ride to the most beautiful scene right outside our resort: An old train car that had been converted to a dining room. Outside we were welcomed by Dan with champagne and delicious bites. There were candle-lit pathways, lanterns hanging from tree branches, a warm fire. We socialized outside before we went in the train’s dining room for a fantastic 4-course dinner.Night 3 was back at the resort, but in a different dining area than the first night. Every thing twinkled, the wine flowed, and the food was 3 courses of perfection. There was even a masseuse on site - very unique!

What to pack:

I would describe the attire for safari “personal preference.” It’s kind of whatever you want it to be, and everyone we met wore something completely different. We saw people in everything from workout clothes, to jeans and t-shirts, to traditional safari vests/hats, to shorts and flip flops, to maxi dresses and sandals. I say, pack whatever you’re most comfortable in! But two things are a must: 1) a jacket, 2) sunscreen and/or a hat. Tres and I went for comfort. We wore workout clothes the first day - LuLu lemon shorts, tee, jacket, and Nike tennis shoes for me. The other days, I wore more traditional khaki or comfy dress shorts with a tee or collared button down, a vest, and a hat. Pack a jacket no matter what!!! The mornings and evenings are fairly cool. We went in their summer season and the forecast was right at about 90 degrees, but most of the time it didn’t even feel like it. Sunscreen - yes!!! Cover your face. What I did not do was pack a ton of clothes. Our resort had daily laundry service, so you can re-wear clothes + you leave for your next destination with clean clothes - ahhh, fabulous!

How to get there from the US:

I’m sure it depends on where you live but if you’re on the east side of the country, the direct Delta flight from Atlanta to Jo’burg (16 - 17 hours) can’t be beat! I’ve heard of people flying over to Europe (on 8+ hour flights) then all the way down to South Africa (12 - 13 more hours) - that just makes me tired thinking about it. But look at your best options... it’s going to depend on where you live.

What you may want to tie into the trip:

Cape Town is an absolute must. I’ll have a guide for the food scene posted soon. I’ve also heard from multiple people Victoria Falls is fantastic if you have the time. I want to go back and explore all of Kruger Park too... we heard you can just rent a car and drive through. I can’t imagine how neat that must be!

*** Please email (andreascooktales@gmail.com) or Instagram me (@andreas_cooktales) with any questions you have that I may have missed. This is a big, important trip to plan, and I know as a first-timer I had a million questions. I hope I answered most of them but happy to help you directly if I didn’t.

*** Really cool videos are all posted on my Instagram Stories if you want to see some of the action we experienced! @andreas_cooktales

A Food Guide To Paris: Jazz Age Style

The Only Way To Do Paris  

I think I’ve put off writing this blog post because I wanted it to be perfect and make perfect sense, but my brain has been fried since this trip. Not because it was a big party (well maybe? - haha) but because this holiday was prior to the finalization and completion of the cookbook. Since then, I haven’t done much in-depth writing.  But here goes… My Paris Guide. The one and only way I have always wanted to do Paris.

If you have read the novel The Paris Wife or Zelda or any Hemingway, Fitzgerald, Picasso, or other Jazz Age artist biographies, you are probably seasoned in knowledge on the Jazz Age of Paris in the 1920s. If you haven’t, just think The Great Gatsby – but real life and in Paris. Seriously though, look it up and read about it. It will amaze you. No one enjoyed life or parties as much as these people. During their time in Paris, these artists literally stomped around the streets of Paris like they owned it – eating and drinking, and eating and drinking, and eating and drinking some more. If you Google “Hemingway and friends in Paris,” there are more images than you’d think – all of them lingering around food and drink on a bistro patio or at a grand dinner table. You can also do this with Jim Morrison and see the same but in the name of morality we will stick to the Jazz Age - ha! I do recommend a Doors soundtrack for the trip – more on that later.

I have read Hemingway and Fitzgerald biographies and books for as long as I can remember, so the “Jazz Age Paris” with a fun group of friends is always the Paris I have dreamed of experiencing. Everyone who knows me well knows one thing, I love lingering over food and drink and have no problem eating the same meal for hours on end. This is not just a Jazz Age thing, it’s a Paris thing – and it’s my favorite thing about the city. Don’t expect quick meals when you go there. And if you try rushing through meals, I think you’re missing the point. I tell people about Paris: 80% of why you go to Paris, should be for the food, coffee, champagne, and wine – the rest is beautiful and worth seeing, but the focus of this city should be your dining experiences.

Of course, I DO think the first time you go to Paris you should partake in all the touristy things, but I highly recommend setting aside at least a day or two for “living like a Parisian.” That’s what this guide is about – it’s a non-touristy guide of how to do Paris with friends, low and slow with a lot of partying in between. I was with a really unruly group of friends this last go-round, but Tres and I have done Paris by ourselves in a similar way, so this guide can be used no matter who you’re traveling with – as long as your focus is food and drink.

Spend an afternoon and night in Montparnasse

If someone said to me, I have 24 hours in Paris, what should I do? This would be it coming from me. The first time Tres and I went to Paris – just the two of us – I researched all the places Hemingway and Fitzgerald frequented and created a little “Jazz Age Bar Hop” excursion. The crossroads area of Montparnasse is where you want to be for that. There are 4 great Jazz Age bars on each corner of the crossroads and the others are just an easy stroll away. Plan on a drink and sharing one traditional Parisian food item at each stop. Our favorites are: Le Select, Le Dome, Café de la Rotonde, and Closerie Des Lilas. Not Jazz Age related, but also in that area is a beer bar we are obsessed with called Le Falstaff. The first time we went here, there was a band playing everything from Oasis to Nirvana so we immediately fell in love with it. It’s now on the list to stop at every time we ever go to Paris in life. The scene is late night, live music, fun people, great beers – it’s a party in there!

Linger outside of cafes with a view – particularly when it’s raining

“Paris is most beautiful in the rain.” If you have seen Midnight in Paris, you have heard this before. If you haven’t, that movie is everything and you should go watch it right now – or at least before your trip to Paris! I do think I am the girl version of Owen Wilson’s character in the movie – a nostalgist completely dissatisfied with the present, obsessed with Paris, and loves the rain. Really though, whether you like rain or not, seeing Paris in the rain is a dream. Seeing it in the rain while eating a delicious lunch, bottles of wine coming one after the other, with Notre-Dame as your scenery is actual Heaven. We experienced this at Le Petit Chatelet. I can’t put into words this experience. We got there as it opened, so our group of 8 was able to all sit together outside. Notre-Dame is literally right in your face at this place, so we enjoyed our view for the entire 3-hour lunch we savored as we talked and cry-laughed over multiple bottles of wine. When the rain started coming down at the end of the lunch, we all literally gasped and couldn’t stop talking about how lucky we were that this experience – the meal, the view, the rain, all of it – was happening to us at that moment. Go here!!! Go early so you can get a table outside with the view. And cross your fingers that the escargot and cream in puff pastry is still on the menu. I absolutely died eating that. When you’re done with lunch, hop next door to Shakespeare and Company – probably the most famous bookstore in the world that was a gathering place for writers in the 1920’s and was featured in Hemingway’s novel A Moveable Feast. Fun fact: both these highlighted destinations are featured in Midnight in Paris. 

* Pics don’t do it justice but the video on my Instagram stories does!  @andreas_cooktales

Have a cozy dinner with live jazz music

Maybe my favorite meal of the last trip to Paris, Porte-Pot is known for their great food and extra cozy atmosphere. It’s not easy to find, but worth the random streets and alleyways you go down to get there. I genuinely thought our rainy outdoor 3-hour lunch couldn’t be beat, but this dinner tied it – maybe beat it because the food was just exquisite and the live jazz made me feel like Zelda and Scott Fitzgerald were at the table next to us. I don’t know if they have live jazz every night but cross your fingers that they do – it made the experience extra special. We cut up and laughed over the fabulous food for hours, ordering more and more off the chalkboard as each dish came out, and you guessed it – we drank more wine! Locals sat at the bar alone as if this was the spot they came for dinner every night, and a couple of them even had their own bottle of wine, drinking the whole thing in its entirety. I remember walking out of there thinking, I may never have a moment like this again in my life. This was a dinner to top all dinners.

Same here... not such good pics, but the video on my Instastory shows how fabulous it was! @andreas_cooktales  

Stay in an AirBNB in a local neighborhood

Nothing will make you feel like you live in Paris more than staying in an apartment in Paris. Plus, with a group of friends, it’s just too fun for words. Each night, we did a little bar hop around our neighborhood (all locals), came back to the apartment, opened up a bottle of wine and listened to The Doors. Tres made a Doors playlist and it was the late-night background noise in our AirBNB. I remember us all having the exact conversation, “there’s nothing more Paris than a late-night listening to The Doors and thinking about what Jim Morrison used to do here.” It just felt oh so Paris – authentic and celebratory. 

Have the Eiffel Tower punch you in the stomach the first time you see it

This structure will no doubt take your breath away when you lay eyes on it the first time, but our friend who lived in Paris for a short time showed us a view that literally made us all gasp. I didn’t gasp the first time I saw it, but this time it literally punched me and I lost my breath. We all complained as he dragged us onto the underground, insisting we get off at this certain stop to see it. We all complained – until we got there. I don’t think I have ever actually lost my breath before rounding a corner in a city. His way was completely out of the way, but completely worth it. I couldn’t remember what underground stop we got off of, so I texted him and got the scoop for y’all! Take the underground and get off on Trocadero – that’s the name of the street. Once you get off, ask someone what direction to walk in to get to the Eiffel Tower. You will round that corner and feel like you’ve been punched in the gut – in a really good way! I never want to see the Eiffel Tower any other way again. Another tip: you’ll want to see it in both the day and the night to get the full experience. I prefer walking around it in the day time, slowly taking it all in. At night, I like to find outdoor seats at a café with a view to watch the light show with a glass of bubbly.

Walk around Notre Dame late-night

There’s not much to elaborate on here, just do it and you’ll be amazed. Such a detailed, beautiful design, it’s so serene at night and easier to appreciate when there’s no one else around. During the day, the entire area surrounding Notre Dame is a complete circus with swarms of people. Walking around the city late at night, you “feel” Paris more, and this is one of the most beautiful structures to see lit up in the evening. 

Eat a fabulous Parisian lunch with locals before going to The Louvre

I don’t know about y’all, but I can’t enjoy anything on holiday without eating a fabulous meal first. The Louvre is gigantic and you can definitely spend an entire day (or even 2) there – depending on how deep your love of art may be. My love of food is greater, so I have always had a grand lunch planned before we even think about walking in there. My two favorite places near The Lourve: Le Comptior – where our group of rowdies started drinking wine at 10am and camped out a good 2 hours before hitting up the museum. The food here is authentically French and delicious. And Le Fumoir – a cozy place with a beautiful cocktail bar and amazing food. The Louvre has a fabulous little café connected to the outside of it – when you’re done art gawking, have a glass of wine on the patio.

Walk the Champs-Elysees

I recommend leaving the Louvre and taking the straight shot down the Champs-Elysees through the parks and all the way to the shopping district until you get to the Arche de Triomphe. You’ll see so much of the city this way and you can always stop for a coffee or bite along the way. Once you’ve seen the most beautiful, famous Arche de Triomphe, stop at Laduree for a sweet bite, a fancy coffee drink, and a glass of champs. Probably the most touristy thing I would ever mention doing in Paris, but it’s a staple, it’s so froufrou Paris, and it’s pretty worth it.

Stomp up and down a street lined with cafes and bars

I recommend throughout your trip, being on the lookout for a really hip street with lots of cool eating and drinking joints and saving it for your last night in Paris to take complete advantage of all the amazing food before you leave. You never know where a night like this will take you. I’ll tell my story - your story will be different, but if you’re open minded and find multiple stops, you’ll have the best night in Paris. We had an early morning flight home (after having about 3-4 hours of sleep a night) so we found a couple of lively streets near our AirBNB apartment and just decided to have bites of food and drinks at each. At the first stop, we ordered off a chalkboard with zero English, so that was an adventure, but we also discovered one of the best wines ever – if you see Brouilly on any wine list, order it! There may be several options, just tell the server you want their best Brouilly on the list. I’ve shared a picture of the one we couldn’t get enough of. Our second stop was Au Port Salut, and because they were about to close, they just gave us the entire upstairs room to ourselves where we ate, drank, and danced to the fun music they had playing. The funny videos can be found on my Instagram stories. Finally, we decided we should really get home and go to bed, but nevertheless, we saw another really fun hole in the wall bar. When we walked in, there was fake snow everywhere – on the bar, on the ground, on the tables – and everyone was dressed in medieval gear. It was a Game of Thrones party!!! Our night could not have taken a worse turn to get ZERO sleep before having to get up at 5am for a flight but we charged on and had an absolute ball with the locals. It was so worth it.

Have a drink at Bar Hemingway

To finish off this rec list, there must be another ode to Hemingway. This cozy, lavish bar in the Ritz Hotel is so worth a stop. The drinks are luxurious, the atmosphere is snug, and it’s great for people watching. I can’t recommend this enough.

One more VERY important rec: Champagne Country

The driving distance from Paris to Champagne Country is way too close to not tie into your trip (1 hour and 30 minutes). So rent a car, enjoy the scenic drive, and spend a couple of days champagne tasting. There’s literally nowhere in the world that makes champagne, so you’ll never be able to do this anywhere else. It was the highlight of my first trip to Paris. Tip: You’ll want to stay in Epernay or Reims but do champagne houses in both towns. Reservations are a must – it’s not a wine hop like Napa – so plan ahead.

11 Places to Eat at Disney World Not in a Park

For a long while, Disney was not necessarily a food lover's dream. It was simply a place to park hop, grab a few bites on the go, and quickly find a pillow to get a few hours in before the next day. Today, I find it to be much more a place for food lovers to spend a few extra days just to chow down on some good eats. 

Two things: I love food (duh) and I know Disney like the back of my hand. Really though, I can't even count the number of times I've been to the home of Mickey and Minnie - if I had to guess I would say 50+. That's just a guess but I'm pretty sure it's not an overestimation. Not that I'm a crazy Disney fan or anything - I'm really not at all. To explain, I used to work for the cheerleading company, Varsity, that puts on all the ESPN shows broadcasted from Disney's Wide World of Sports. I would go anywhere from 5 to 6 times a year. That's not including the years I cheered. Not to mention, my husband also works for the company so he frequents Disney several times a year (and sometimes stays for 2 to 3 weeks). Just so I'm not home without him for that amount of time, I still jump on that Disney train occasionally - toot toot! 

So let's get down to business. Where do I eat when I go? I have some staples that have been there for years that I frequent but most of my favs are new joints. Here's my list... and none of it's in a park. 

Bonnet Creek

This is my favorite area in the Disney area. The hotels are fabulous and the restaurants in them are superb. They're a little more fancy so perfect for date night. 

La Luce

Hands down, favorite restaurant in the area. Sometimes I'm only in Orlando for like 48 hours but I always make sure this is in the food rotation. Fantastic Italian food - authentic but with fun modern flairs. Love can't even describe!  

Bull and Bear

Fancy-schmancy... I absolutely love this restaurant but it's definitely pricey. The atmosphere is very romantic, candle-lit, the menu is absolutely phenomenal and fun, and the food will knock your socks off. It's a good date-night spot if you're going without kids and really is worth the money.

Deep Blu

A seafood lover's dream with an open kitchen to a white tablecloth dining area. Amazing fresh fish dishes, delightful seafood towers, and crafted sushi rolls - this place has it all. If you love fresh seafood, this is your place. 

Disney Springs

Kind of a park? I don't think it's considered one but it's new, hip, happening, and in the middle of all Disney. If you went to Disney back in the day, you'll remember this as "Treasure Island." It's been completely redone and holds serious good eats. This is great for the kids, without the kids, or even alone (I had a blast here bopping around by myself last month)!  

Morimoto Asia

If I had one restaurant that's convenient to a typical Disney schedule, this would be it. I'm not even a huge Asian food fan and this restaurant is life... I'm obsessed. Get the steamed BBQ Pork Buns, the spare ribs, and the Morimoto Buri-Bop. You will go back for those 3 things. I promise. 

STK Orlando

Just a really fun restaurant with good steaks and sides. There are several STKs all over the country, so if you've been before, maybe you can skip it but if not, go! Be prepared for loud music... it's kind of like a restaurant inside of a club. Really fun with friends!  

Chef Art Smith's Homecomin'

Ok, so I've been here twice - once was over the weekend and the other was on a Monday. I'll say this, my weekend experience had me put this restaurant on the list. The weekday experience had me almost not. But here it is. If you like southern food, this is a gem - amazing friend chicken, mac and cheese, and literally perfect grits (if you know how I am about my grits, this is a huge statement from me... I hate grits almost everywhere but at my house). However, the second day I went was a little flat. I say take the chance and hope you have an experience like I did the first time! 

Jaleo

GO HERE!!!!! A José Andres restaurant, so you can’t go wrong but this one is a gem originally out of Vegas and beyond great! It’s one of the restaurants that made me fall in love with Vegas, and now I get to go in Orlando! Authentically delicious tapas and a menu you’ll need help reading, but it’s so much fun! Ask what to order.

Lake Buena Vista

This area is kind of the "town" of  Disney. It's where all the fast food and chain restaurants are - - and most importantly, the fantastic outlet mall. Aside from all the food joints you'll typically see at home and all over the country, there are 2 local places worth checking out.  

Johnnie's Hideaway

Great "Surf and Turf" style restaurant with fresh seafood. They're known for their stone crab and it's delicious. The back patio and bar is lively, fun, and reason to go all on it's own. 

Miller's Ale House

This place is a little nostalgic for me, as it was the first real restaurant I ever went to that wasn't a "Disney" restaurant. It's very casual, bar style food, but I just love it. It's a great place to watch a game and throw back a few beers. I love the zingers and the Cajun chicken pasta - I eat like a kid at this place. 

Celebration

Celebration is an adorable little community in the Disney area. It's like it's own little village with lots of little boutiques and local eating joints. The houses are lined close together, all so immaculate and with such detail. I had to spend the night at the hospital in Celebration once, as I was rushed there in an ambulance for a kidney stone. Unimaginable pain and possibly the worst situation of my life as I was supposed to be working all weekend, and instead I was hooked up to an IV in a hospital bed. But leave it to the cute town of Celebration to have a hospital that felt like the "happiest place on earth," complete with Disney character wallpaper. Probably not a necessary story to tell, but maybe it puts the charming little town of Celebration in perspective. 

Celebration Town Tavern 

The patio here is just great and the lobster roll is everything. You HAVE to get the lobster roll.  

Holler and Dash

I would normally never put a restaurant on my list I haven't visited myself, but this place has been on my list for awhile, as I've heard from numerous people it's absolutely delicious. It's a breakfast/brunch joint, and people rave about this place! Knowing another Orlando trip is always in my future, I'll be going here on my next visit. 

7 Places to Eat and Drink in Palm Springs

If y'all follow my story on Instagram, you know by the looks of last week, I'm obsessed with Palm Springs. It's honestly one of my favorite places on earth, and lucky enough, Tres and I have visited every year for nearly 10 years now. Every time I go back, it feels like home. It's small enough and so charming, it's easy to warm right up to it and feel like you live there. About two hours from LA, two hours from San Diego, and one and a half hours from Temecula Valley wine country, the day-trip possibilities are endless - not that you need the day trips though, Palm Springs is the perfect 3 day getaway all on its own! If you happen to visit LA or San Diego and want to change it up a bit, try a day trip here. It's pretty fantastic. Oh so worth it! I've eaten nearly everywhere in Palm Springs and you can see my full Palm Springs Guide here. But I wanted to narrow the food list down to absolute must-haves. 

 Cheekys 

 Breakfast/Brunch/Lunch

Every person who has been to Palm Springs or lives there will more than likely recommended this super-happening brunch spot before they recommended anything else. And it's for good reason. Get the bacon flight to make your life right. And anything on the brunch or lunch menu is just fabulous! You may want to go here for the brunch one day and lunch another. 

 Sherman's Deli & Bakery 

Breakfast

For an early breakfast to get the day started, you can't go wrong with Sherman's. It's a traditional breakfast diner, and the food is absolutely to die for great! If I want a hearty, good breakfast early in the morning, this is my first stop. 

 Azucar at La Serena Villas 

Lunch

Cute, adorable, and charming doesn't even do this place justice. It's simply beautiful, cozy, fun, and all the things I can think of!!! If anything, go here to just look at the beautiful decor, but honestly, the food is totally worth it too - the lunch menu is delicious and the blood orange margarita is everything. Plus, the pool view from the restaurant is just perfection.  

 Purple Palm at The Colony Palms Hotel 

Lunch

Poolside lunches are where it's at in PS, and this one is one of my favorites. The pool is gorgeous, the cocktails are fabulous, and the food is worth raving about. Whatever you do, get the burger with chorizo spread. I don't even know what to say besides that's probably the best burger I've ever had. 

Workshop Kitchen + Bar

Dinner

You'll walk in and not even be able to get over the decor in this place  - it's amazing and worth the dinner itself. I have said before, I think the atmosphere here is better than the food. I thought that until I had their fish special. I don't know if it'll be on the menu again, but whatever the special is, I recommend getting it. The cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, and duck are also fabulous. 

4 Saints

Dinner  

This is a new place and it's great for either cocktails or dinner - or both. The drinks are fantastic and the food is playful, unique, and so so good. This one's a little pricy but just YUM. Whatever the fish dish is called that comes out in a smoked dome - get that (in pic above)!!! 

 Bootlegger Tiki

Drinks 

I don't leave Palm Springs, period, without coming here for a cocktail or two. It opens late afternoon and stays open late night and it's just superb!!! The drink list is huge but get one of the staff to help you pick - they're great. And the atmosphere is everything. It's the perfect little hideaway! 

14 Things to Eat and Drink in Seattle

Seattle is one of the best food cities. And if you love fresh oysters, it may just be the BEST food city! I find west coast oysters to be the best oysters in the U.S. and Seattle is the place to find them. There's a lot to eat in this seafood town, but I've narrowed the list down to my Top 14 musts! 

Salmon Chowder at Pike Place Chowder  

It's a staple, it's delicious, and it's in Pike Place Market so you can walk around after you finish your bowl of soup and take in what's truly one of the best markets in the country.

Oysters at Elliott's  

When you walk up to this place, you'll think it looks touristy but when you walk in, your mind will change. Sit at the oyster bar, get a glass of champs, and devour the absolute most divine oysters. 

The "Eat the Entire Menu"  Tasting Menu at No Anchor 

This experience is seriously one of the best food experiences we've ever had. You literally get a bite of every single thing on their menu, and they're some of the best, most creative bites of food you'll ever eat. If you've been eating all day and plan to maybe eat more later, share the tasting. It's a good bit of food!  

Drinks at The Nest  

Serious views from up here with delicious cocktails to keep you entertained while you look around. Go when they open, as it gets crowded later in the afternoon and at night.  

 Beers at Shortys  

When I think of Seattle, this place is what I picture. Grungy, gritty, and laid back, Shorty's is a dive bar with pin ball machines, arcade games, and casual eats. There's plenty of local beer on tap, and playing games while you sip is just an added plus. 

Flagship Grilled Cheese at Beechers  

Best. cheese. ever! Try the samples and order the Flagship Grilled Cheese - its serious business. We also had the Mariachi Mac and Cheese that was to die for, but if you have to pick one, go with the Flagship sandwich! And don't forget to leave with a container of cheese curds to snack on all day. Also leave with some good melting cheese to make this incredible fondue recipe by my friend over at Jen Reviews. https://www.jenreviews.com/cheese-fondue-recipe/

More Oysters  (and the Bread and Butter) at The Walrus and the Carpenter 

This place is an absolute gem! It's located in Ballard - a super cool area, a little drive aways from the heart of the city, but I highly recommend a day or at least afternoon in this area. The oysters here are the absolute best and the bread and butter is the perfect accompaniment. Go as soon as it opens - it gets packed and a line forms out the door. 

Cocktails at Barnacle

After you've had your share of oysters at The Walrus and the Carpenter, walk next door to Barnacle and have a cocktail - this place is an apéritif and amari bar. I had one of the most delicious cocktails of my life here and the atmosphere is so cute and cozy. 

 Pasta at Staple & Fancy

After your cocktail at Barnacle, walk here for a food finale that ends with pasta and great wine! The staff here is fantastic, the pasta is delicious, and the wine paired with it is perfectly on point! I love the casualness of the open kitchen atmosphere with just enough elegance and coziness that also makes it romantic. 

*Side Note: You could almost do a little foodie hop in the "little box" these restaurants (Walrus, Barnacle, and Staple) are housed in. They're all located next to each other inside an old building in Ballard. And these aren't the only ones - there are several others with cool themes and menus (next door at Marine Hardware, they were having Lobster and Hip Hop Night - it was completely sold out, and by the looks of it, I understand why. It looked at blast!)

Brunch at Chinooks or Saltys  

Both of these brunches are so divine, it's hard to choose but they're different so here's the breakdown: Chinooks across from Ballard on Salmon Bay, so if you spend the day there, it's the perfect late morning meal. It's right on the marina and the big window views of the boats make you feel so relaxed and happy. The food is so extremely great here - I can't express it enough. Salty's is located across from the city on Alki Beach with breathtaking views of the skyline. It's a brunch buffet with every piece of seafood and brunch food imaginable so there's a lot of eat here! 

 Bread with Roasted Garlic AND Pasta at How to Cook a Wolf 

Yall... I've never had bread this good!!!!! The set up is incredible. So are all the small plates and you'll just drop dead over the pasta. All so good!!! Atmosphere is sick too... the best 80s new wave tunes are playing!!! So everything... so so everything!!! 

 All the Dumplings, Noodles, and Small Plates at Revel and Joule

Pick one or go to both!!! Two Asian fun influenced restaurants - and they're related so if you just pick one, don't feel bad. I can't choose though... both so good! Maybe do one for lunch and one for dinner!!

 The Set Lunch Menu at Sushi Kashiba 

This lovely little place is tucked away in a corner away (but close enough) from all the chaos of Pike Place Market. Go here for lunch - there's a set menu and the outdoor seating is so discrete and quaint. Best sushi yall!!! 

 Mac and Cheese Dumplings at Pel Meni Dumpling Tzar

Omg yall!!! This place was a surprise. Not planned. Needed late-night food. And socks blown off!! Everything was great. The mac and Cheese Dumplings were a stand-out. Great cocktails too!! Not sure why I needed any more at 1am? But worth it!!  

Cooktales Travels: Barcelona & Cadaques Food Guide

Barcelona has been on our list for several years, but for some reason we always ended up somewhere else. Quite frankly, when planning new holiday spots, we would choose other places over Spain – I now shake my head at that. Since we’ve been, I can’t even begin to explain how happy and grateful I am we finally went.

We heard for years from friends that Spain is the most amazing place and Barcelona was one of the best cities in the world, and it proved to be true once we experienced it. As a matter of fact, it’s flown to the top of our “favorites” list. Cadaques, a fisherman town that's an easy 2 hour drive from Barcelona, is reason enough Spain is one of our new favorite places. If visiting Barcelona I cannot stress enough – make time for a little visit to Cadaques. That little town made our trip complete perfection. I’ll talk more about Cadaques later, but I’ll start by giving my Barcelona must-eat, must-drink, must-do list.

Barcelona: What to Eat & Drink… and do along the way

El Quim de la Bouqeria

This amazing “restaurant” is in the middle of a lively market. Take a stroll through the market first to experience some of the most unique meats, fish, and food items you’ve ever seen. You can eat oysters right off the ice and try samples from different vendors. El Quim de la Bouqeria isn’t easy to find, but once you spot it, you’ll know you're at the right place. It’s a bar in the middle of the market with stools – not easy to find a seat but worth waiting out. The seafood and tapas is out of this world - this is the best lunch you’ll have in Barcelona. Get the oysters, oxtail risotto, and olives.

4 Gats in the Gothic Quarter

You’ll definitely want to spend time walking around the Gothic Quarter – it’s beautiful, dynamic, and there are lots of fun restaurants and bars to hop in and out of for quick bites and drinks while exploring. 4 Gats is a quintessential stop because it’s historic – a common working place for Picasso and Dahli. Worth grabbing a drink in here and taking in the past.

Grand Hotel Central bar

Not far from 4 Gats, the hotel bar here has some of the best cocktails – Tres’ mojito was literally the best one ever and my Aperol Spritz was over the top. There's a rooftop bar with some of the best views in the city, but you have to be staying at the hotel or have dinner reservations to go, however, the downstairs hotel bar was fantastic.

Paco Meralgo 

BEST DINNER IN BARCELONA. PERIOD. I could have eaten here every single night. The tapas is just ridiculous it’s so good. The razor clams here are still the best ones we had – and we ate them everywhere. The head-on fresh shrimp was delightful. And the Burrata is unique and melts in your mouth. Get reservations – you will definitely need them.

Tandem Cocktail Bar 

We went to this cocktail bar every night after dinner. Literally every night. The vibe is old-school, cozy and the bartender is so talented. There is no menu and only one bartender. Yes, you’ll have to wait a hot minute for your cocktail but don’t leave – you won’t regret waiting it out. The bartender will ask you what you like and go from there. These are masterpiece cocktails.

Quimet y Quimet 

Get there as soon as the doors open or you’ll be sorry. And don’t go here if you’re looking to sit down. This is one of the most recommended, authentic tapas places in Barcelona – the food comes out quick and the people pour in quicker. If anything, go for the salmon toast with truffle honey. Drink a red vermouth with soda for what my favorite chef, Jose Andres, calls “the ultimate tapas experience.” I agree.

Bar Marsella

The Hemingway fan in me will tell you to go here. It’s very divey and don’t expect fancy drinks – they’re known for their absinthe drinks that make every person drinking one look like they’re going to run out and be sick. We stuck to bottled beer and admired the old, authentic walls, floor, photos, etc. It feels very 1920’s and it’s worth stopping for a quick drink.

Rias de Galicia

The fanciest, priciest meal we had in Barcelona. It was a perfect dinner spot with a romantic, white-tablecloth vibe and delicious food. We had champagne and a mix of Spanish and French oysters to start – we favored the French ones, however, both were delicious. The octopus was smoky, paprika-spiced and extremely tasty. The raw, tartare-like lobster was different and delectable. This is an upscale, date-night place you'll want to dress up for! 

Tapas Crawl on Blai Street

JUST DO IT. This neighborhood, El Pablo Sec, is off the beaten path and if you like food a lot a lot, it’s a must-do. Spend an entire afternoon one day walking this street, jumping into different tapas places, and sampling everything. The number of tapas bars are never-ending and all the tapas sits open-air – you just walk into a place, pick out a few to several bites, find a table inside or outside on the patio, grab a drink, and eat your face off. This is a food lover’s dream.

Beach Bars and Paella at Xiringuito Escriba

Escriba is THE beach-side spot for traditional Spanish paella. I can’t recommend enough to set aside one day on your Barcelona trip for a “beach day.” The beach-side of Barcelona is like driving into a completely different city – you go from old-world charm in the city to a Miami-ish beach setting on the water in less than 10 minutes. I’m not the biggest beach person, so for me to recommend spending an entire day at the beach means you should probably do it.- This is THE beach-side spot for traditional Spanish paella. I can’t recommend enough to set aside one day on your Barcelona trip for a “beach day.” The beach-side of Barcelona is like driving into a completely different city – you go from old-world charm in the city to a Miami-ish beach setting on the water in less than 10 minutes. I’m not the biggest beach person, so for me to recommend spending an entire day at the beach means you should probably do it.

Barcelona Beach is a wee bit touristy and a little crowded – so we stuck to Nova Icaria Beach, a lively, sandy stretch with an endless line of beach bars and water-front chairs to rent. Choose chairs in front of the beach bars, and you’ll have servers bring you drinks right on the beach. I do recommend walking down to Barcelona Beach and all the way to the W Hotel (the one that looks like the sailboat hotel in Dubai), as there are even more beach bars, plus that hotel is a showstopper on so many levels. But before you get too far from Nova Icaria Beach, eat paella at Escriba – it’s beachfront, festive, and the food is yummy.

Palosanto in Gothic Quarter

Pork Cheek with Truffled Mashed Potatoes. That’s all I have to say about that. The other bites of food here are ok, but the wine list is superb and the pork cheek dish is reason enough to jump in, have a bite, then maybe go somewhere else.

Ultramarinos Barcelona

Omg this gin and tonic bar is just FANTASTIC!!!! Great late night place to slip in and grab a night cap... small space, great folks, amazing drinks. Another one of those great bars you can just tell the bartender what you like, and they'll fix you right up. These drinks came in the typical gin and tonic "fishbowl glasses" with heavy ice cubes and flavored with fresh spices, herbs, and fruits... quickly made us want to become gin and tonic drinkers on the regular 😬 We have refrained since we got home though... ha! But now we know how to make the best drinks!!

Brew Dog

Fantastic beer bar and atmosphere... loved the selection of craft brews. I even had an Elvis themed beer... The King is everywhere. You can't visit any city without seeing The King. ​

Cadaques and the Costa Brava

The Costa Brava is the coastal region of northeastern Spain that displays the most gorgeous landscapes from beautiful beaches and rocky cliffs to mountain scenery and boundless vineyards. If you make any daytrips from Barcelona to one of the little Medieval towns, unique beach towns, or divine wineries, you’ll more than likely drive much of the Costa Brava. However, I recommend spending a small (or large) part of your vacation in one of the lovely towns – Cadaques to be exact.

There are so many unique towns, vineyards, and beaches lining Costa Brava that you could choose from, but I am going to go ahead and tell you to book at least a two or three night stay in Cadaques – this is a place where you have to constantly pinch yourself to make sure you’re not dreaming. Now that I’m back home, Cadaques will cross my mind from time to time, and I still wonder if it was real, if it actually happened. I am sitting here in a trance as I write this because I still can’t believe how spectacular this place is. We are wine people, so anything with that focus will always be at the top of our list but imagine wine AND ocean.

​Picture this: a hotel that’s actually inside a winery, set atop a massively high mountain – down the rocky, cliffy mountain on one side, you have a quaint, colorful, picturesque fisherman town and down the other side, you have vineyards galore with a long stretch of wineries at the bottom of the mountain. No, you’re not dreaming, you’re in Cadaques, Spain. I never want to return anywhere – I always say there are too many places on earth to be seen – but Cadaques, I want to visit 100 more times in my lifetime. Not to mention, the people – look around Cadaques and you’ll see people living life simply the way it’s supposed to be lived. I’ve never seen people doing life so right than right here in this town. Here’s a list of what we did, where we stayed, what we saw, and what we ate. It couldn’t have been more perfect, so I would be more than happy for anyone to steal this itinerary.

Mas Molla Winery

On our drive from Barcelona we stopped here for a wine tasting – unplanned. I’ll be the first to tell you, this is not easy to find, but like all treasures, once found, so worth the journey. The winery started in the 1300s and is still ran by the same family – can you imagine knowing what your ancestors from the 1300s did for a living and continuing to live out the tradition?! One of the daughters gave us a quick little tour and tasting. Her English was better than our Spanish, but we all had to work at understanding each other. We bought wine for GREAT prices, and to gather our purchases, she took us into the caves, pulled the label-less wine bottles right off the stacked shelves, and boxed them up for us. It was such an authentic, unique experience – one that is engrained in my mind forever as one of my best travel memories.

Pals

This Medieval town is an Instagramer’s dream. The pictures you get from this stone-covered, charming little village are breathtaking. Tours are available, but we just walked around and enjoyed the scenery – it’s a quick stop, only taking an hour or two to see everything.

​There’s a great little restaurant at the bottom of the elevated town called Antic Casino. It’s quaint, cozy, and has a 3-course lunch menu with dishes off the charts. I had the BEST Squid Ink Paella I ever had – on this trip and ever. The mint soup for dessert was delightful, too!

Sa Perafita

This winery is also a hotel, and it’s seriously one of the best places we have ever stayed. You can look it up online, but the pictures don’t do it justice. This place is amazing on so many levels – wine (and friendly dogs to greet you) upon arrival, a fun and informative wine tasting, immaculate rooms with modern amenities, the most relaxing breeze and scenery perfect for enjoying a glass of wine or coffee outside daily, and their 5-star complimentary breakfast spread each morning is enough to make you want to live there.

Honestly, I have never wanted to live in a hotel, and I NEED this place to be my home. The owner also has a few restaurants around town that are superb and the recommendations and helpfulness of the staff are just wonderful. It’s also very reasonably priced, which is shocking for what you get with this place. The town of Cadaques is a scenic, easy 10-minute drive from the top of the mountain – this hotel is absolute perfection!

Enoteca MF 

We went here twice for the oysters, once for a large dinner spread – the menu here is just amazing. If you wait, you can snag a great water-front seat on their covered patio and people-watch all night.

Café Tropical

Late night (not too late – Cadaques is not a late-night town) place with the best music ever. We sat on the water-front patio, drank wine, and listened to the coolest band that played everything from 90’s rock to Dire Straits to Dolly Parton. I hope when you go, that same band is playing, but if not, this place is known to have great music all the time.

Boat rental 

We did a half-day boat rental and tooled around the Cadaques coastline – this was the best day of our trip.

We packed several bottles of wine, stopped at one of the markets for cheese and snacks, and had a little picnic on the boat. Not to mention, swimming in the Mediterranean was crisp, cool, and just as beautiful as anything in life could ever get. If you do this trip, I HIGHLY recommend renting a boat.  

Compartir

A must-do for dinner. This place is hip, cozy, romantic, all the things - with a really playful menu and great wine list. Try to sit outside – it has such a lovely ambiance.

Espelt Tasting Room

 On the other side of the mountain, on the way back to Barcelona, we stopped at Espelt Winery and had the most wonderful experience. We did an impressive tasting of about 7 or 8 different wines and the girl who helped us was so wonderful, friendly, and accommodating. The big glass windows you sit in front of gives you a complete view of their vineyards out front, and the wine was delicious. If I could change one thing (and when we go back), I recommend staying one more day and doing a winery day – there are so many on this stretch of road. We only had time to stop at one, but I'm  glad this is the one we picked! My favorite part of the day was when the gal pouring our wine found out we were from Memphis, the first thing she said was, “I love the Memphis Grizzlies – Pau Gasol is from just a few towns over.” SO NEAT!

Llanca 

Another wonderful little beach town just down from Espelt. If you’re hungry or want to explore after wine tasting, this is the place to go. Lots of cute restaurants and bars line the tiny beach. The town is known for the restaurant Miramar, but there are so many great little patio tapas places as well.

Andrea's Agenda: The Napa Valley

People who know Tres and I best, know we love wine. Several sweet years ago, we took a trip to Napa and San Fran and got engaged. Ever since, Napa has been one of our favorite places on earth, and we tend to make at least one trip a year.

California wine country is literally one of the most beautiful places on earth. I think it's the closest landscape you can get to Europe in the US. Having traveled to wine areas in Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Greece, and Argentina, I can honestly say California wine country is still at the top of our list - and it shows! We’ve been to Napa more times than I can count, and I know the place like the back of my hand. I call it my second home, and it really does feel that way. 

Some people like to go to the beach... we like to go to wine country! With that known, I get asked a lot for recommendations of our favorite wineries and restaurants. So, here's a list to go by if you ever decide to take a trip to the valley. 

*** I break the roads and areas of Napa Valley down on my Instagram page Highlights. You can find full maps and detailed areas of where to stay, where to drive, etc - @Andreas_Cooktales

WINERIES: 

Domaine Carneros

I'm obsessed with this place because it looks like an absolute palace. It's incredibly beautiful. It's the first winery we ever visited and we keep going back. They are known for their delicious sparking wine. Order a tasting of all their wines and a small bite to eat - caviar, perhaps? Simply sit on the patio and enjoy the views and richness of this place. It’s a bit off the beaten path from the main highway, but there are two other must-visit wineries near it: Cuvasion and Artesa. Make an appointment for a seat on the patio.

Cuvasion

It's right across the road from Domaine Carneros and the views are absolutely gorgeous. I love the front door patio to sit, drink wine on, and just take in the absolute beauty of the landscape.

Artesa

Just about a 5 minute drive around the corner from Domaine Carneros and Cuvasion, the winery and views here are stunning. The art and architecture is modern and welcoming. I'm a bigger fan of the atmosphere here than the actual wines. But go for the views and chic feel. It’s completely worth a trip for the views alone.

Opus One

A very knowledgeable tour with a fascinating family story and interesting vine picking and winemaking process. This wine is some of the best you'll ever drink... Rare to see it under $300 a bottle, but you get a glass on the tour. This wine is liquid gold, I tell you! Make an appointment.

Robert Sinsky ​

Best winery tour ever. Make sure you get the Full Circle Tour and go hungry! You will tour the grounds and learn about the produce they use in their food before you taste it. You'll get to eat fruit off the trees when walking around! I even took some of their bay leaves home - directly off the property! The tasting is in their caves, full of great food, superb wine, and elegance! ​

Miner

We love this winery. Right on the Silverado Trail - my favorite road to drive down in wine country, as there are a number of great wineries one after another. Sit on the deck, enjoy the views, and make sure you try the chardonnay - it’s the best!

Frank Family

This is one of mine and Tres' favorite wines ever. The atmosphere is low key, casual, and comfortable. You can genuinely see why it's called Frank "Family" because you feel like family here. Also a good place to end the day.. Lots of fun. Tres bought this wine for all his groomsmen in our wedding and we just keep on buying it! The Zin is our favorite and we actually fell in love with Zins in general because of this place.

Regusci Winery

Absolutely unbelievable reds. This winery’s wines are what makes Napa, Napa!

Reynolds Family

The family here is so nice and personable... You get a real family feel. The grounds are pretty and it's nice to just sit and drink outside and enjoy the winery.

Alpha Omega

Beautiful, busy, and right on the main highway. It's easy to get to and another good stop on a day you're winery hopping.

 Robert Mondavi

Also on the main highway, this winery is rich with history and the tour is one of the most legit in Napa. You’ll learn a lot.

Mumm

Best patio ever and delicious sparkling wines. When you're here you feel like if you weren't here you'd be missing something. The crowd hanging here is fun, attractive, and just enjoying life. Reservations are a must.

Taylor Family

Oh wow! This place is such an experience! Their cheese pairing is to die for and the views are fabulous! The owner and her granddaughter sat with me and my mom and we chatted the entire time. The wineries with “Family” in the name are always so welcoming and this one is beyond!

Schramsberg

THE place for champagne lovers. While this winery produces sparkling wine, they have the closest process to the way real champagne in France is produced. If you go on the tour, you’ll get a glimpse into pretty much the same way champagne is made!

ZD Winery

Right down the street from Mumm, Balducci, and Miner, this is a must-stop. Delicious wines and views to die for! Ask to do a seated tasting, upstairs, on the patio. It's so relaxing! 

 Spring Mountain

Amazing views and awesome tasting. You're literally on Spring Mountain here. They greet you with wine and you sit and enjoy the view. Tasting is outside which is great. You must make an appointment.

 Rombauer

Some of our favorite wines come from here, and we are wine club members of this one. Walk around and enjoy the grounds here, and you might run into a very nice man who will tell you lots of great stories and explain all the work that goes into the landscaping!

Beringer ​

This winery was a pleasant surprise. I promise it's not wall to wall with white zinfandel. The wines here are quite good! The Victorian house on the main road is difficult not to miss, and when you go in for a tasting you'll feel like you've gone back in time. It's a stunning place and worth a stop! 

Caymus

Some of the best wine in the valley. Make an appointment for a great tour. I love how beautiful the grounds are here and the story of the family is so interesting. Our favorite wine here is Belle Glos Clark and Telephone!

​Pride Mountain​

The mountain wineries are some​ of the best, and Pride has a lot to be proud of. Their wines are delicious, their tour guides are great, and their views are some of the best. We took tons of pictures here! 

Kuleto Estate  

One of the best winery experiences we have ever had! Up a winding mountain, you'll think your lost on the journey up there, but once you get to the top it's like a spotlight is on Kuleto and all its glory! You'll feel like you were transmitted to an Italian vineyard. Farm animals run free, produce is abundant, and the panoramic views of the valley are that of what you can't get anywhere else. The wine is exceptional too. We took several bottles home a couple of years ago and haven't touched them yet.  

RESTAURANTS: 

Auberge du Soleil 

Hands down #1 food rec I have for Napa. Best brunch ever. Of all time.  It's a multi-coursed brunch with some of the most delicious food you can imagine and the best views of the valley from your patio table. 

Farmstead

Rusic, casual, fun, farm to table restaurant. It's right on the main highway, and a great lunch stop if you've been drinking wine all day and get hungry. The food here is some of my favorite! We have done dinner here, too, and would do it again! 

Ad Hoc

A Thomas Keller must! What am I saying... All Thomas Keller restaurants are a must! But this place is legendary when it comes to fried chicken night! Make sure you book on the right night. It's everything it's hyped up to be... Promise! 

Bouchon

Another Thomas Keller favorite - we never go to Napa without a stop here for lunch. We sit on the patio, drink champagne, and eat as many oysters as we can stand!  

Torc

Right in the main town of Napa. The food here is unbelievable and the atmosphere is lovely!

Archetype

A great brunch stop with a cool atmosphere, fun menu, and ambiance that could keep you there all day!  

Dean and Deluca  

If you're a food person at all, this is just a must. Even if you just walk around, but you won't want to do that. It's difficult to go in and not buy everything you see. We always get our picnic spread here and take it to a winery to consume with a bottle of wine!

Clif Family Winery Bruschetteria Truck

Clif Family is a must! It's a winery complete with bike rentals and a Bruschetta truck! It's a great lunch stop, and if you go at the right time, you can do a Bruschetta Wine Tasting. Their delicious wines are paired with bruschettas from their food truck.. Yum! 

The Model Bakery

If you stay in or close to St Helena, this is the perfect pre-wine tasting stop. Delicious coffee and pastries, and the best homemade English Muffins you'll ever eat in your life live here! 

Press

If you want steak, this is your place!

Tra Vigne

Amazing amazing amazing Italian food and pizza! I can't even with this place! Sit on their lovely patio for dinner and have one of their pizzas and the Rabbit Ragu!  

 Mustards Grill

A great, low-key, casual dinner spot. Don't let the casual throw you off - the food is to die for!  

Goose and Gander 

An upscale pub with great food and the best cocktails in the valley! If you can stand to drink more, go here after dinner for a nightcap. Or have dinner here - it will knock your socks off!  

Bottega  

A delicious Italian restaurant with a menu you will love and an atmosphere you want to be immersed in. Their cocktails are great too. It's fun to try a little bit of everything off the interesting menu. 

Bistro Jeanty 

i love this place because it's like being in France! You get the best of both worlds... Ideal French cuisine in the middle of Napa Valley. From foie gras, to pate, to escargot, to onion soup, this place screams French food and does it just right.  

Brix Restaurant and Gardens

Beautiful patio overlooking gardens - great for a daytime stop for lunch. Fantastic food.

Solbar

The food here is superb but once you sit on the lush patio, you'll realize everyone really comes here for the sophistication. The ambiance at night cannot be beat... It's so chic!  

Gott’s Roadside

You’re going to hear the burgers are to die for, and it’s ALL TRUE! Literal best burger ever. A great stop for lunch on the main highway - soak up all that wine! There’s also one in Oxbow Public Market now too if you’re in the Napa town.

Russian River Brewing Company

If you're staying in or around Santa Rosa, you don't want to miss coming here for a beer or two. We did the beer sampler and I would go back 100 more times! Sure, you're in wine country, but you may want to take a break for a cold one. 

Willi's Wine Bar

Willi's is off the beaten path from the main area of wine country but if you're staying near Santa Rosa, this restaurant needs to go on your list. I couldn't even decide what to order here there was so much that looked good! You leave very full and happy. 

The Girl and the Fig

This place is in Sonoma and it's my favorite restaurant there! I have the cookbook and love it - if that tells you anything. 

*** This list used to be a hodge podge for any and all things in Napa, Sonoma, Santa Rosa, and Healdsburg. I am currently working on separate lists for all these! If you have any questions about specific places in any of these, Contact me… I will tell you my favs!

Andrea's Agenda: Vegas

Tres and I are headed to Vegas next week for the Guns N Roses concert. Yes, you heard me right, Guns N Roses!!!! If y'all haven't heard, the never ending feud between Axl Rose and Slash has been patched up, and the band has reunited after over 20 years. The kickoff: Vegas!

I realized, this will be our third time in Vegas in the last year. Since we visit Sin City so much, I thought it's just about time to share our favorite restaurants with y'all. I seriously feel like we have eaten everything The Strip has to offer, and these are our favorites: 

Bazaar

Bazaar Meats - Jose Andres  

Ok, first off, we don't miss a Jose Andres restaurant - ever. If we visit a city and he has restaurants there, we make an immediate reservation to all of them. He's a genius and probably our favorite chef of all time. You don't want to miss this restaurant. Walking in alone will make any meat eater love life just a little bit more. Meats you've never thought of before - strung and hung every which way, you feel like you're walking into the best butcher shop on earth and then it just gets better. The menu is playful and the food is all one big presentation. We had Cotton Candy Foie Gras, a chicken dish that came out in a glass sneaker, and smoked oysters that were actually smoking when brought to the table. You don't forget a meal like this one. 

Giada

 Giada Vegas

Giada's restaurant represents everything she is as a chef. The focus is delicious Italian food with a California twist, a menu full of fresh, clean, light options with divine flatbreads, pastas, and main entrees. And I cannot forget to mention my favorite thing about the restaurant (which is also my favorite thing about Giada): "a little bit of everything and not a lot of anything." Her menu features a lot of small bites so you can try many different items, and you'll want to - it's difficult to make your mind up. My favorite is the Imported Buratta. That may sound boring, but I've had a lot of Buratta in my time and the one there is the best! Go during the day, sit by the windows, and enjoy life. The views here are the best and most enjoyed with a bottle of champs or sparkling wine. 

Scarpetta  

For crying out loud, go here just to get the famous Spaghetti. At first glance of it on the menu, you won't know better and you'll look right over it. But I'll make you a promise: you'll never eat a tomato basil sauce like this ever again. EVER. It's simply the best. In addition, the full pasta menu here is to-die. I also suggest the Duck Foie gras Ravioli. 

B&B

B&B Ristorante  

A Mario Batali/Joe Bastianich creation, this tucked away, cozy spot is perfect for dinner. A very authentic Italian experience, you'll find this restaurant in the Venetian, and you'll also find their Grilled Octopus to be one of the best you've ever had. As far as pasta goes, get the Black Spaghetti and the Wild Boar Ragu. 

Trattoria Reggiano

All I can say about this place is: GO HERE! Do not miss it. A very casual and inexpensive restaurant, it's a perfect lunch stop if you're walking around the shops at the Venetian. Getting pizza or pasta is a difficult decision, so get them both. They also bring out the most fabulous bread. You probably won't eat the rest of the day, but it's so worth it.

Jaleo

Jaleo - Jose Andres

You didn't think I was only going to mention one Jose Andres restaurant, did you? This menu is the way I see Jose Andres as a chef - modern, whimsical, authentic tapas. This is another restaurant I love so much because the small portion sizes allow you to try so many different menu items. And you'll want to because the menu is a mile long, yet everything is unique and oh so good! We have been here so many times and ordered so many different dishes! This is the type of restaurant where you ask your server to just order for you, and you'll be more than happy.

Bouchon

Bouchon

When we go to Napa, we make a stop at Bouchon. And when we go to Vegas, we make a stop at Bouchon. A Thomas Keller work of art, this restaurant is well-known for it's bakery so it's a great breakfast or brunch spot. I like it for brunch because they always have the best oyster selection as well as a delicious champagne and cocktail selection. The bakery and the restaurant are different so don't get them mixed up. I suggest the restaurant because you can still enjoy the bakery treats along with a great meal or take some to go!

Beauty and Essex

We first went here when we were in NYC and to my happy surprise, they opened one in Vegas! This place is beautiful with the most fun atmosphere and the food is delicious. Oh, and the cocktails are to die for... I love the one with Pink Peppercorn syrup.  

Yard Bird

Originally started in Miami, this restaurant was recently added to the Vegas Strip, which can only mean one thing: it's one of the best in the country. This place is my jam because it reminds me of my own style of cooking: southern with a fun flair. You'll find typical southern style items on this menu - everything from Chicken and Waffles and BLT to Grits and Biscuits. But you'll also find unexpected dishes like Bone Marrow, Charred Okra, Swine Burger, and craft whisky drinks and cocktails for days. But you don't want to miss the Chicken Watermelon and Waffles

STK

A phenomenal modern steakhouse with delicious sides and great starters. The best part about STK is the atmosphere, complete with loud music and an attractive wait staff. It's like being in a calm version of a Vegas club, yet you're surrounded by great food. I suggest going here with a large group of friends... you'll have a blast.

Lemongrass

Absolute delicious dim sum, soups, and noodles!!! Love love love this place when in the mood for thai food!! It's in the Aria hotel.  

Aureole

Have you ever seen a wine angel? If you go to Aureole, you will! If you're a big fan of a lengthy and spot-on wine selection, this is your place! If anything, just go to see those angels grab the bottle of wine you choose from the glass four-story wine tower. The women, known as wine angels, are hoisted into the air where they sometimes perform acrobats and come down with your bottle of wine. If that isn't bravo, I don't know what is!

CHEERS TO HAPPY EATING IN VEGAS!!! 

Andrea's Agenda - Chicago

If you're any kind of foodie, you're well aware Chicago is one of the best cities in the country for food. I have to admit, it's my absolute favorite eatin' city. As a matter of fact, Tres and I love it so much we go every summer. One of the best trips we have ever taken was when I got him Pearl Jam tickets for his birthday. They are his favorite band of all time and happened to play on his 35th birthday at Wrigley Field... Couldn't have been more perfect! It was one of the most amazing concerts ever and the entire trip sold us on Chicago summers. We are going back this weekend, so I thought, why not share my Chicago favs with yall. Here they are, in no particular order: 

Pequod's Pizza

BEST. PIZZA. IN. CHICAGO. I literally dream about this pizza all year until we visit again. I've had pizza at Gino's and Lou's and love them both but this tops the Chicago pizza scene! The same thick crust you love about Chicago pizza, but what they're really known for is their caramelized crust... There's just nothing like this pizza anywhere! Go here and thank me!

Avec

I love this place for dinner. It's one of the first restaurants I ever went to in Chicago when I decided Chicago was my favorite food city. Its a tiny little "shoebox" of a place - literally you could throw a rock from one end to the other but the food will make you scrunch in and enjoy it every time! Small and large plates with very interesting selections! It's communal seating so hope you like meeting strangers... We do! 

The Girl and the Goat 

If you're a food person, you've heard the hype of this restaurant, and its all true! Call ahead and TRY to get a seat. Good luck though.. It can be tough! We went at the end of the night and literally waited until almost the end of the night just to eat here, but oh my goodness, is it worth it!! I highly recommend letting your waiter order for you... The food is so innovative and everything is wonderful!

The Terrace at Trump and Sixteen

The Terrace gives you the most amazing city views you'll ever see! Forget the the tourist building rooftops, this is the one to go to... Plus cocktails added to the mix is a huge bonus! Step inside and have a fancy dinner at Sixteen. Beautiful views, a grand tasting menu, and all-out elite service. This restaurant is a splurge but great if you're a foodie! 

The J. Parker 

Favorite rooftop bar ever! Beautiful city and water views and fun cocktails... If I had a top 5 Chicago list, this one would go on it! We go here every time we visit the city! 

Zed451 

An upscale, lovely rooftop bar with a fabulous crowd, great little bites to eat, and fun drinks! 

Goose Island Wrigleyville 

If you go to a Cubs game, a concert at Wrigley, or are just in the area, you have to stop here! Great patio with a vast beer selection... I love the taste tester. Also get the Paulina Brat if you're hungry... Yum! 

The Publican

Favorite brunch place by far in Chicago, but great for dinner too! The menu is fantastic and I love this place so much I follow them on Instagram just to always be updated on all their deliciousness! They focus on seafood (omg oyster selection) and pork (omg slab of bacon) with a large selection of international beers. 

The Aviary

It's ALLLL about the experience here! Extremely unique cocktail menu with some of the most creative cocktails you will ever see or experience. Yes, I keep saying experience because it's all about the presentation here! Very happening spot for locals and tourists alike. Try to get reservations or you will wait in line for hours. 

Half Acre

Such amazing beers in a homey, local feeling tasting room. Highly recommended for beer lovers. 

The Purple Pig

Sit on the patio for lunch and do a meat and cheese plate with champagne or wine. An interesting menu where it's difficult to pick what you want-- try as much as you can! We rarely repeat restaurants but this is one we will! 

Eataly

I have my morning coffee and pastry here at the Lavazza cafe every morning I'm in Chicago, but there's so much more to it than that!! It's a specialty food store and market downstairs, and upstairs is an array of modern Italian eateries and a wine and beer selection that will blow your mind! Taste the wine, try the beer, eat the food, shop for goodies --- you could stay in here all day! 

Sable Kitchen and Bar 

I cannot say enough about this place... Their food, cocktails, and everything they do is the love of my life next to Tres! My

Truffle Sliders recipe

was a recreation of a small plate at this place because their sliders were literally one of the best things I've eaten in my life! We first heard of Sable from a local guy who insisted we go there for cocktails, and while their drinks were spot on, I cannot say enough great things about the food! Small plates with a flair... Some of the best little bites of food ever! We went here 3 times last year and plan to go back!

Trenchermen 

Amazing dinner in a vintage atmosphere! The place used to be an old bath house and now it's a perfected restaurant with an outstanding menu and on-point cocktail selection. 

GT Fish and Oyster 

This is the seafood place to go in Chicago! Delicious, fresh selection. Their Caviar service is amazing!

Longman & Eagle

Great brunch with a fantastic little patio! It's kind of far away from the city center but you can take a cab and it's not too bad! If you're a bruncher, next to The Publican this is the spot! 

Al's Beef 

It's so touristy but just do it. Please do it... At least once. You won't be sorry. I can't even put into words how much I love these sandwiches.

Monk's Pub 

I have a lot of good things to say about this little "off the beaten path, hole in the wall." If you like just a random, local dive bar where you can belly up and drink beer, this place is pretty solid. Tres and I found it by accident after getting caught in the rain, and we ended up staying for hours and drinking, and drinking, and drinking more. The atmosphere is cozy and they have a Juke box with a strong music selection which always makes for a fun time!

Volare 

Great Italian food and atmosphere. Good date night spot. 

Bin 36 

Good brunch spot. It's fun with a group of gals because you can do all kinds of different wine flights, and they even have a mimosa flight!

Northdown Cafe and Taproom 

Extremely long, awesome beer list. We followed a local here... Perfect place for a beer lover. And all I have to say is, just come here for the pork fries. Just do it. 

Andrea's Agenda - Palm Springs, California

In honor of Coachella this week: When you're thinking of a place to go for a fun vacation and you don't live in California, Palm Springs may not be the first place to pop in your head, but I'm here to tell you, it's worth putting on your short list. A common weekend getaway for Cali folks, Palm Springs is a "bijou" city with a ton of character, style, and the ultimate relaxation experiences. You can feel the glitz and glamour of the history there as you walk the small streets, as the city is known for being a go-to vacation spot for Hollywood celebrities such as Elvis, Frank Sinatra, and Dean Martin, and Elizabeth Taylor. It's also located in the Coachella Valley, so for you music festival folks, there's no reason not to add this place to your bucket list. 

My story with Palm Springs begins with my sweet husband, and I can't think of a better city for couples to visit. Each year, Tres has to visit Palm Springs for work. Well, one year about six years ago I went along for the ride and never wanted to miss the trip again. We have been every year since and find something different to do every time! About two hours from LA, two hours from San Diego, and one and a half hours from Temecula Valley wine country, the day-trip possibilities are endless - not that you need the day trips though, Palm Springs is the perfect 3 day getaway all on its own!

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I want to burst with complete overwhelming happiness when I visit this little California city. To lay poolside with closed eyes, feel the warm sun - that you know is there for at least 300 days a year - then open your eyes and see a painted backdrop that includes what is one the grandest, bluest pools you've ever soaked up, and peeking up behind it are snow covered mountain tops, Palm trees, cactus, and a glowing orange desert. That is Palm Springs. Aside from just getting on a plane and taking the trip, here's a list of what I recommend when you arrive.

FOOD: 

• Cheekys 

Best brunch in Palm Springs. Get the bacon flight and the fresh squeezed blood orange mimosa. Also, the BLT and fried chicken sandwich are fabulous! 

• Bootlegger Tiki

A hidden speakeasy tiki bar -- this place is awesome!!! It has become our new favorite cocktail spot. The drinks are unique with fun surprises, and I highly recommend the cheese board. 

• Ernest Coffee

This little quaint coffee joint is the "hiding spot" for Bootlegger Tiki. The coffee is superb, the indoor atmosphere is relaxing, and the patio is fun. 

• Sherman's Deli & Bakery 

Best breakfast in Palm Springs. Their fresh squeezed orange juice is too good for words. Order whatever your favorite thing for breakfast is, and I bet it will be the best you've ever had! I love the french toast and bacon. 

• Blue Coyote 

There are more than a handful of mexican restaurants in Palm Springs, but this is my all time favorite. It may be because the food is so delicious or maybe because it's tradition for me and Tres to eat here every time our plane lands, but we love the patio and the margaritas! 

• Fisherman's Market and Grill 

Walking by it, you'd never think to go, but you should most definitely have lunch here! Known for their fish tacos.. They're a must-eat! 

• Trio 

I love this place for dinner. The atmosphere is trendy and the food is unique. I'm a fan of the Crawfish Pot Pie. 

• Copleys 

The perfect date spot, this restaurant is classic and romantic. The patio is the perfect place to really soak up the night-time relaxation of the beautiful desert. 

• Matchbox 

Awesome wood-fired pizzas with great outdoor seating. I love the view from the top of the restaurant out onto the street, and the firepits make it cozy. 

• Zin American Bistro 

Great wine selections, good appetizers, and wonderful cheese plates. Another great patio for people watching! 

• L'Atelier Cafe

You are transported from the California desert to a quaint French cafe when you come here. It's so authentically french with delicious coffee, perfect croissants, and melt in your mouth crepes. 

• Workshop Kitchen + Bar 

I have to be honest and say I like the decor and atmosphere of this place better than the food. However, the menu is inventive and it's fun to try as many of the small plates as you can. The cocktail menu is fun and there's plenty of wine to choose from off the large list. 

• Sidebar Lounge at the Riviera 

I love this hotel... It's so modern-old school sophisticated. If anything, walk through the hotel and head to the Sidebar Lounge for a drink.. It's well worth it! 

• Ace Hotel and Swim Club - bar

A fun, free spirited feel, this hotel has trendy, yet casual appeal. The bar is some kind of fun and open late with fun cocktails to boot. 

WHEN YOU'RE NOT HUNGRY: 

• Desert Hills Premium Outlets

This is a great outlet mall right outside of Palm Springs. Lots of upscale stores for lower prices. And if you're an All-Saints fan, they have an All-Saints outlet. I've yet to find one anywhere else, so need I say more?! 

• Worlds Biggest Dinosaurs 

If you're driving to the outlet mall from Palm Springs and you happen to see what you MAY think is a scene from Pee Wee's Big Adventure off the side of the road, you're not mistaken. The scene from the movie with Pee Wee, Simone, and Andy was filmed right at this museum. Maybe you're not a Pee Wee fan (who are you?!?!??), but these gigantic Dino's are still something random but interesting to see. 

• Palm Springs Aerial Tramway 

To be in the desert in 90 degree weather and within minutes be shivering on top of snow covered mountains, looking down at that hot mean, desert is worth a tram ride! Such a unique experience with lots do do when you get up there! 

• Temecula Valley

If you like wine, you absolutely cannot miss the short drive to Temecula. A legit wine area, it reminds me of a mini Napa or Sonoma with great wines you may have never heard of before. The wineries and restaurants are superb, and the scenery is the most beautiful farmland you've ever laid eyes on. If you go, don't miss the Almond Champagne at

Wilson Creek Winery

. We also did a hot air ballon ride once, and that was worth the trip over alone.