Philadelphia is known worldwide as a fabulous food city, and the Italian restaurants here live up to that reputation. When visiting, check out a few of these great Italian restaurants in Philadelphia that serve up a variety of delectable classic and modern favorites.

GIUSEPPE & SONS

Featuring a casual and bustling luncheonette on the main floor and a stylish restaurant downstairs, Giuseppe & Sons is one of the newer establishments to join the Italian dining scene. Developed by award-winning chef Michael Schulson and his wife, Nina Tinari, this destination creates an array of Italian classics with a modern flair. Both the main floor and rooms downstairs have full bars with a robust menu of craft cocktails. Note: If you’re simply craving something sweet, you can purchase fresh Italian pastries at the counter.

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The post 10 Best Italian Restaurants In Philadelphia 2025 appeared first on Marla Cimini.

Hawaii’s Kaka’ko restaurants offer a great food scene in Honolulu

Food lovers agree that Oahu’s Kaka’ako neighborhood has the best food scene in Hawaii. The Kaka’ako neighborhood is busy, as a lot of new restaurants and businesses have opened in recent years. This area is very close to Honolulu’s Waikiki neighborhood, and has become a vibrant and fun place to go, day or night. You will see mostly locals here, as it’s still considered a bit off-the-beaten-track from the main touristy areas of Waikiki, yet it’s becoming more popular with visiting foodies and those who love to explore.

Kaka’ko: What you need to know

The Kaka’ako neighborhood is easy to get to from Waikiki. It’s located only a few short miles away from Waikiki (and an easy uber ride!) Everything is walkable once you get there. You can easily walk there, or it’s about a 10 or 15-minute drive from Waikiki, depending on the time of day. (Note: rush hour here is busy!)

This cool neighborhood has been transformed from an industrial area into a lively art and culinary destination over the past several years. What’s more, this urban community is now home to many high-rise apartments and condo buildings, along with independently-owned hip boutiques, eclectic shops, bars, breweries, and much more. Kaka’ako is sophisticated, yet still edgy. So there’s a lot to see and do in this exciting area!

If you’re still planning your Hawaii trip, read about how to choose the best island for your Hawaiian vacation! And if you’re seeking to book a hotel in Waikiki, read my post about some of the best hotels and resorts right on the beach!

The Kaka’ako neighborhood’s restaurants are some of Hawaii’s best

Oahu’s Kaka’ako neighborhood has the best food scene across the island. The best place to start exploring this part of town is the SALT at Our Kaka’ako complex. It’s home to a number of bustling restaurants, specialty stores, coffee shops, and casual cafes. This is a list of several top dining destinations for foodies in Kaka’ako. I’ve visited this neighborhood a number of times and have personally dined at all the restaurants in this post!

Margotto Hawaii

One of the newest and most talked about restaurants in the Kaka’ako neighborhood is the fabulous and memorable Margotto Hawaii restaurant, where I had the opportunity to dine recently. This multi-award-winning restaurant’s cuisine is an unforgettable fusion of Japanese with an Italian and French flair. This exceptional food-lover’s destination features a truly unique, multi-course tasting experience where truffles are the star of the show. So, if you love truffles and are ready for an incredible dining adventure — Margotto is not to be missed!

Margotto Hawaii’s menu is filled with delights accented with a variety of rare truffles, sourced from Italy and other destinations. The delicacies here are carefully prepared by the award-winning chef duo, the Kayama brothers, who will tantalize your taste buds with incredible textures and flavors. One of our favorites (pictured below) is the cacao e pepe with homemade tagiolini with butter and cheese. Be sure to choose the wine pairing, as the wines are perfectly matched to this unforgettable menu. Margotto Hawaii is an authentic experience meant to be enjoyed and savored, so be sure to add this to your must-visit Hawaii experiences.

Moku Kitchen

Another popular Kaka’ako restaurant is Moku Kitchen, and it has a menu filled with authentic upcountry specialties. This stylish eatery has a robust menu with many favorites, including Kalua pork and pineapple hand-tossed pizza; fresh island fish tacos made with mahi-mahi; and steak with house-cut fries. Don’t skip the sides, as the Jalapeno mashed potatoes are a best-seller. The house-made desserts include strawberry cream pie and chocolate mac nut. (And this family-friendly spot has a children’s menu as well). 

Moku Kitchen has a great happy hour with food and drink specials, so be sure to check it out!

Redfish Poke Bar

Redfish Poke bar by Foodland is another Kaka’ako restaurant with an assortment of inventive Fresh poke bowls, salads, and other fresh dishes, as well as signature cocktails and more. Chef Reid Matsumura, an Oahu native, serves up a contemporary version of island classics. Several popular dishes include okonomiyaki fries, made with scallions, furikake and pickled ginger; miso shiso wings with lemon and miso glaze; and lechon kawali, pork belly with onion, soy, nuoc cham sauce and tomato. 

Highway Inn Kaka’ako

For a traditional taste of the islands, check out Highway Inn Kaka’ako, a family-run restaurant that’s been in business since the 1940s. Their signature Hawaiian-style menu features a variety of classic plates, such as their Hawaiian moco, which is pork (or chicken) lau lau with beef stew gravy, topped with an egg and lomi salmon. One specialty is the sun noodle fried yakisoba is a stir fry with locally-made noodles and spam, green onions, and a fish cake. This restaurant’s plantation mixed plate features Pulehu boneless short ribs, grilled chicken, and panko-crusted island fish that’s accompanied by a generous portion of furikaka rice.

Oahu’s Kaka’ako is the best for coffee, chocolate and hot dogs!

Oahu’s Kaka’ako neighborhood has the best food scene, and the best coffee and chocolate destination, too. This hidden gem of a neighborhood has a number of unexpected options, too, such as Hanks Haute dogs, a casual spot with an array of gourmet hot dogs and creative toppings.

Kaka’ako is a great place to find some locally-made favorites to bring home, too, such as tasty specialties from the Lonohana estate chocolate shop with products made with all-natural, organic ingredients; and Morning Brew for fresh coffee, tea, pastries, and more.

Kaka’ako’s beer scene is fabulous

Kaka’ako is home to several breweries within walking distance, including Aloha Beer Company. This neighborhood hotspot attracts repeat customers with a variety of rotating handcrafted offerings on tap made with local ingredients. This brewery restaurant has a friendly ambiance and multiple indoor / outdoor spaces. There is also a big, shaded beer garden with seating for nearly 100 guests — and a “secret” speakeasy with a whimsical, rock n roll vibe. 

Hawaii’s Kaka’ako farmer’s market is one of the island’s best

Oahu’s Kaka’ako Farmers Market, is held in Ward Village every Saturday morning. This award-winning market features an abundance of fresh food products (and more) sourced from the local community. This means that it’s an ideal place to get an authentic “taste” of the islands.

You’ll find local fruits, vegetables, and homemade specialties, as well as tasty baked goods and more great food! All of these vendor stalls are owned by locals. These individuals are passionate about sharing their products and honoring native Hawaiian culture through fresh ingredients.

And if you’re up for more shopping, you’re in luck! Ward Village has over 100 stores selling art, jewelry, flowers, clothing, as well as one-of-a-kind souvenirs. 

Admire Kaka’ako colorful murals around the neighborhood

In addition Kaka’ako’s fantastic food scene and great restaurants, it’s also an art-filled haven for artists. Visitors will immediately notice the many massive and memorable colorful murals painted on the sides of warehouses and other businesses. This is courtesy of Pow Wow Hawaii, a collective led by founder Jasper Wong. This innovative group invites artists from the islands and around the globe to decorate the structures annually, and it’s always an exciting event!

Currently, there are many splashy murals adorning the sides of buildings. So, you can easily spend a few hours wandering and admiring the art. It’s an exciting way to stroll the neighborhood, as you’ll always be surprised with the variety of artwork that’s just around the corner.

Oahu’s Kaka’ako is a beachfront location

Although Kaka’ako is an urban neighborhood, it’s a quick walk to the waves. So, if you wish to take a beach break while you’re enjoying the area, just walk over to the Kaka’ako Waterfront Park. There, you’ll find wide open space and a great spot to relax, have a picnic, and enjoy the lovely Hawaiian scenery. You can see the hotels and skyline of Waikiki in the distance, too.

It’s adjacent to the Ala Moana Beach Park, which is also popular with SUP paddleboarders and kayakers who use this area as a launching pad.

Summary: The best way to visit the Kaka’ako neighborhood

When you’re visiting Oahu and wish to see something outside of Waikiki beach, the Kaka’ako neighborhood is a fantastic place to explore! Ideally, it’s a spot for a half-day of fun. In the morning, you can start with breakfast at a local Kaka’ako cafe, and check out the murals and shops. Or, visit in the afternoon, where you can stroll around and admire the many murals, browse around the many independently-owned shops — and then plan for a fabulous dinner (and after-dinner drinks, too)!

Keep in mind the neighborhood is popular, especially in the evening, so be sure to make your restaurant reservations in advance!

Read my post about the best hotels in Waikiki (I’ve stayed at all of these properties)! And book your hotel in Waikiki, Hawaii

An earlier article on this topic was written by Marla Cimini for USA Today in 2021.  

The post Where to eat in Oahu’s Kakaako neighborhood: Best restaurants (updated 2026) appeared first on Marla Cimini.

Hamburg, Germany’s dynamic culinary scene has been evolving rapidly in recent years, attracting the attention of food-loving locals and tourists alike. Across the city (and in a variety of neighborhoods), restaurants, cafes, distilleries and other innovative gastronomic destinations are popping up in an array of places around town.

As a seaport city, Hamburg has been traditionally known for its seafood, but today, it’s considered a hot spot for culinary diversity. Hamburg’s cuisine has been transformed into a fusion of North German tradition and modern international styles.

In the center of Hamburg, chef Sebastian Glävke heads up the 100-seat Böckmann’s restaurant, located in the newly-opened Courtyard Marriott Hamburg City hotel. The concept of Böckmann’s restaurant was inspired by indoor food halls and fish markets. The sophisticated space features an open kitchen and hip, modern ambiance, while the menu showcases regularly-changing dishes made with fresh regional ingredients.

Böckmann’s restaurant — Photo courtesy of Courtyard Marriott Hamburg City

Chef Glävke explained, “Hamburg has many things to offer, from little restaurants in alternative areas to Michelin-starred restaurants. We have a great mix of cultures here, which you can see in different ways and cooking styles in the restaurants. You can find the traditional French-inspired cuisine, but also young chefs who are willing to cook old Northern German dishes by giving them a special and modern twist.”

At Böckmann’s restaurant, chef Glävke and his team recently introduced a “tartar bar,” the first in the city. It features a number of diverse options, such as beef tartar with baba ganoush (a blended puree of fire-roasted eggplants with Tahini sauce), fresh lemon juice and coriander. It’s served with homemade Naan bread.

But the menu isn’t limited to meat. They also offer tartar with salmon or vegetables, and guests are invited to create their own combinations as well.

Tartar Bar — Photo courtesy of Courtyard Marriott Hamburg City

He pointed out, “Guests love the salmon tartar with a miso and nut butter marinade. This tartar is inspired by the Asian cuisine and it comes along with krupuk (shrimp crisps).”

Glävke added that the tartar concept was a truly a team effort. “The idea of the tartar bar came from Petra Bierwirth, the hotel’s business owner, and our area manager Bernd Mensing. They introduced me to the idea and I was absolutely fascinated by the opportunities we could create with a concept like this. Tartar is well-known, but is also a dish often forgotten about. In most restaurants, tartar is served the traditional way, but we’re striving to change it into a modern and fresher dish.”

Tartar board — Photo courtesy of Courtyard Marriott Hamburg City

Taste tours in Hamburg

To ensure that local and visiting food enthusiasts get the chance to have a big taste of Hamburg, a food-focused tour company, called Taste Tours has recently launched in the city to introduce both locals and tourists to the diverse food scene. For each tour, the company carefully chooses several restaurants and food businesses across several neighborhoods, depending on the availability and capacity, etc.

Paul Beutin is the Taste Tours location manager for Hamburg and Berlin. He says, “Thanks to the expertise of Foodguide, Europe’s largest social gastronomy network (and one of the three founding companies of Taste Tours), the restaurants have been selected with great accuracy. The restaurants are selected by Taste Tours because they have proven themselves as culinary hot spots.”

He continued, “On the one hand, we hope that the local participants will get to know (and love) new restaurants in their city. On the other hand, the Taste Tours gives our international guests the opportunity to visit several curated restaurants on one evening without any effort. In addition, all tour guests can get exciting insights into the very different gastronomic concepts, take a look behind the scenes and learn new food facts.”

On a recent excursion, Taste Tours brought guests to these three noteworthy, yet under-the-radar spots in Hamburg. These unique businesses are examples of the city’s diverse food offerings that are changing the culinary face of the city:

Drilling

Drilling in Hamburg — Photo courtesy of Marla Cimini

In Hamburg’s Bahrenfeld neighborhood, Drilling is considered a “triple-threat,” a café, bar and micro distillery. (In fact, the word “drilling” means triplet in German). Located in a former marzipan factory, this unique gastronomic concept opened in 2018 and has become extremely popular with locals who adore the fresh brewed coffees and teas served in the morning (along with fresh pastries).

This chic, comfortable industrial space features soaring ceilings, plenty of tables and other seating at the stunning bar where mixologists serve up craft cocktails featuring their house-made spirits (as well as other premium offerings). If you’re lucky, guests can also take a peek at the distillery in the back room that features beautiful copper stills – and see how the small-bath spirits (gin and a variety of brandies) are made on the premises.

Throughout the month, Drilling often hosts live music and other events.

Beutin loves bringing his Taste Tours guests to Drilling because it’s a unique, beautiful space and a fascinating experience overall. He said, “There is no comparable project in Europe that houses so much gastronomic craftsmanship within its walls.”

Damettto Nudeln

Dametto in Hamburg, Germany — Photo courtesy of Marla Cimini

Situated in the Eppendorf neighborhood, the cozy storefront Dametto is all about a homemade Italian classic: fresh pasta. Owned and operated by Monica Dametto, a transplanted Italian who has been living in Hamburg for over 15 years, this pasta workshop is all about interactive fun in the kitchen.

Dametto says, “I started this business just for fun – because of my cooking and pasta obsession. Making pasta always gives you a nice feeling.”

Dametto offers a variety of small-group cooking classes, where guests can learn how to make pasta from scratch, either by hand or by operating the professional, high-powered appliances. Participants can take turns at cooking the specialties as well, as the shop features a compact, yet incredibly versatile kitchen.

The dishes may include traditional linguine – or a modern spin on pastas, such as turmeric spaghetti, cocoa tagliatelle or gnocchetti featuring Italian durum wheat and fresh eggs from the region. Dametto also features intimate group events (such as singles nights and private parties).

And if you’re just passing by, you can watch the action outside the large window – or go inside to purchase some gourmet products as well.

Underdocks

Underdocks — Photo courtesy of Marla Cimini

In the St. Pauli area, Underdocks is an off-the-beaten-path restaurant that features “gourmet” fast food in a gritty atmosphere, serving up traditional and modern seafood dishes in a casual, welcoming setting. With a menu full of freshly prepared, reinterpreted classics, this restaurant offers a wide variety of generously-portioned options, including ceviche, fried codfish, lobster rolls, crayfish rolls, pulled salmon tacos, salads and vegetarian specialties as well.

With a design that pays homage to the city’s seaport, local docks and fisheries, Underdocks features high ceilings, wooden tables and floors, as well as metal and steel accents, including a shipping container in dining area that adds an authentic accent.

Featuring a full bar, with local beer, the restaurant is open all day and guests can easily order a quick bite – or something more substantial and dine at a more leisurely pace.

The post These Experiences are Putting Hamburg’s Food Scene on the Map appeared first on Marla Cimini.

If you’re ready to escape to Cabo, Mexico and stay at the Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal, read all about this exceptional property!

The Waldorf Astorica is located in Western Mexico, the place where the Pacific Ocean meets the Sea of Cortez. This rugged coastline’s beauty is truly mesmerizing. In Los Cabos, there are a number of mid-level, upscale and luxury resorts that attract travelers all year — with stunning ocean views. These stunning beachfront locations feature sprawling pool decks and terraces — steps from golden sand.

The Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal is the luxury brand’s first resort in Mexico and it was developed to reflect the dramatic, natural landscape.

Recent Cabo visitors probably know this hotel’s former incarnation was the Resort at Pedregal. The Waldorf Astoria unveiled this current name in late 2019.

An impressive retreat in every sense of the word, this unique resort provides an elegant yet casual, beachy ambiance throughout the expansive property.

From the moment of arrival at the outdoor lobby area, guests are greeted by the jaw-dropping view that stretches across the lovely infinity pool to the deep blue ocean beyond. And there are amenities galore: access to several swimming pools, a massive spa, a kid’s club, a 24-hour personal concierge team and much more.

The 119 guest rooms and well-appointed residence suites all feature exceptional comfort, including oversized bathrooms with large soaking tubs, gas fireplaces and massive terraces with plush patio furniture. If that weren’t enough, each room features its own private plunge pool and stellar ocean views.

With a number of incredible dining and beverage experiences created by an expert culinary team, guests have the opportunity to eat and drink like royalty as they enjoy the picturesque ocean and beautiful beach views during their visit. Here are a few of the authentic and memorable offerings at this extraordinary resort:

El Farallon restaurant

Perched next to a rocky cliff above the crashing waves on the far side of the resort, El Farallon is the hotel’s scenic premier restaurant. With beautiful sunset views over the ocean and lights that shimmer after dark, it offers a magical al fresco dining experience. Its rustic wood tables are illuminated by glowing lanterns, creating an atmosphere of beachy elegance.

The menu features an abundance of “ocean-to-table” delicacies, including sea bass, red snapper and jumbo shrimp (to name a few). This locally-caught fresh seafood is made with different homemade preparations and sauces that change daily. (There’s also rib eye steak and other non-fish dishes for those who prefer meat).

Be sure to arrive for dinner early and sip a pre-meal cocktail. Order a glass of chilled bubbly at the adjacent champagne bar and lounge and soak in the beauty of this stunning oceanfront destination.

Champagne on the beach at the Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal resort’s Va Y Viene beach bar

If you’re seeking a romantic, fun (and completely Instagrammable) experience, this is certainly a great place to start. Situated on the sand and overlooking the crashing waves, this area features wooden swinging chairs surrounding a full-service bar that serves up an array of fine Champagne offerings.

It’s an ideal spot to celebrate the sunset – and toast your vacation as you swing in the breeze.

Don Manuel’s restaurant

Showcasing modern delights inspired by the classics, Don Manuel’s is the resort’s signature eatery that’s open for breakfast and dinner. This stylish open-air restaurant features jaw-dropping views of the beach and ocean from just about every table.

Guests can start the morning off with a delectable breakfast that includes omelettes and plenty of local favorites (as well a fresh fruit smoothie bar) prepared with local, organic ingredients.

In the evening, the restaurant transforms into a sophisticated and lovely terraced destination. A few dinner specialties include roasted totoaba “Veracruzana” with capers, olives, tomato, chile sauce, celery root and spiced beets; catch of the day “Zarandeado” with peanuts adobo, orange and salad with cilantro; and braised lamb shank “mixiote” style with roasted vegetables, ancho and guajillo chile sauce.

Crudo Bar

The resort’s unique Crudo Bar is situated in the shade under the thatched pavilion adjacent to the main swimming pool. Ideal for a snack, the bar offers a wide selection of freshly prepared items, including catch of the day tiraditos; black shrimp ceviche; seafood molcajete; tostadas and zesty Mexican-inspired rolls made with fresh, regional ingredients.

While dining, guests love to stay refreshed by relaxing in the seats in the pool or sitting at a high-top table in the shade – all while sampling some of these specialties and gazing out across the infinity pool at the Pacific. (For more casual selections, the adjacent pool restaurant also serves salads, tacos, wraps and more).

The not-to-be missed signature cocktail, the Pedregal Reyes, is made with tequila reposado, Ancho Reyes chile liqueur, grapefruit, pomegranate, lime and orange juice.

Cooking classes on the property

Who says you can’t learn something on vacation? For those who wish to pick up a few culinary techniques while on this magnificent property, there are several opportunities.

The resort offers several one-hour personalized cooking classes held at the resort’s oceanfront hacienda-style kitchen, where attendees get an exclusive lesson in authentic Mexican cooking by a professional chef. The classes focus on using indigenous ingredients and shows how to make local specialties such as tamales, mole sauces and an array of fresh ceviche.

Tequila tastings for beginners and experts

In addition to the culinary classes, the resort also offers a series of private tequila tastings at the resort’s stylish, open air restaurant, Don Manuel’s. These tastings are suited for the novice, as well as those more experienced in the world of tequila.

The beginner classes focus on the history of the spirit and introduce the diverse expressions of un-aged and aged tequila: blanco, reposado and anejo. The advanced course covers the different types of agave, “terroir” and styles. (As an added bonus, guests can also participate in cocktail or exclusive Mexican wine tasting classes as well).

Gourmet snacks delivered to your room

So just when you thought you weren’t hungry, think again! Delectable snacks are certain to appear in your room throughout your stay, including a daily bowl that’s overflowing with crispy housemade corn chips and chunky guacamole that are, simply put, quite addictive.

This zesty treat is accompanied by a frosty Mexican beer with thinly-sliced lime – best enjoyed while soaking in the in-room plunge pool while admiring the sunset. During your stay, guests may also find a platter of colorful tropical fruit, as well as a Clase Azul premium tequila that’s served in a beautiful ceramic keepsake bottle.

Private dinners

And for those who wish to dine with their own group of traveling companions, the resort can set up a beautiful private sunset dinner on the beach (or elsewhere on the resort), featuring all of your favorite menu items.

After all these exciting culinary experiences at the Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal, there’s yet another option: an unparalleled in-room dining program that features many delicious specialties. So even if you choose to retreat to your room by yourself, you’re guaranteed to be served a memorable meal.

The post Hotel Review: Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal 2023 appeared first on Marla Cimini.

Originally published in USA Today’s 10 Best

Although French cuisine may not necessarily be top of mind when you think about Los Angeles, the city has its fair share of innovative casual bistros, authentic bakeries and upscale restaurants. With a strong French community, L.A. offers a variety of eateries that serve up many delectable (and magnifique) offerings.

The dining room at Le Salon de Thé — Photo courtesy of Marla Cimini

“The French restaurant scene in Los Angeles has evolved in a good way over the years,” notes Sandrine Klein, an art teacher and culinary instructor at Richland Avenue Elementary School in Los Angeles, which offers a dual-language French immersion program.

Originally from Bordeaux, France and a California resident for two decades, Klein started her French cooking classes – and an after-school program called LaCuisine4Fun – as a way to inspire creativity while teaching basic kitchen skills and introducing young students to tasty specialties from France.

“For the most part, the restaurants are cozy and charming, with exquisite dishes, and, of course, there’s some French language sprinkled in as well. French restaurants are always great choices for a date night, a casual meal with friends, or a celebration, too.”

With that in mind, here are a few Los Angeles French cuisine restaurants, bistros and cafés.

Le Salon de Thé

Smoked salmon at Le Salon de Thé 

Simply put, Le Salon de Thé is the real deal. This unassuming, intimate tea salon is situated on bustling Sunset Boulevard in West Hollywood, and it’s easy to miss if you’re not looking for it.

This 36-seat tea room is owned by sisters – and Paris transplants – Laurence Botrel and Catherine Friedmann, as well as Catherine’s son, Anthony. Together, they opened their cute and cozy café that specializes in “French tea,” with beautifully-presented finger sandwiches, as well as salads, scallop carpaccio, a variety of French wines, and other savory items that change with the seasons.

Le Salon de Thé’s menu also includes family recipes from the sisters’ mother. Along with baking fresh croissants and breads, Anthony has also created a rich, homemade hot chocolate drink that’s gaining a loyal following. The café’s tranquil ambiance features bright blues and white – colors that represent the Pacific Ocean – and there’s an adjacent outdoor patio as well.

“California was a welcoming place for us to start our business,” says Catherine. “Our goal was to open an inviting tea room that makes guests feel like they are in our Paris living room. I love preparing high tea, and I wanted to bring a little of my country here. And I feel that’s exactly what we did.”

L’Appart

Scallops at L’Appart — Photo courtesy of L’Appart

Located in downtown Los Angeles, the tiny L’Appart is co-owned by Marc Moubarak and executive chef Thierry Babet. The two met several years ago in France and eventually decided to open a restaurant in Los Angeles together.

A petite oasis in the middle of a busy city block, L’Appart serves up a blend of tasty classic and modern French fare with a homey, friendly vibe. Seating here is limited, so guests receive meals that are cooked individually to order – with great deal of personalized attention to accompany their dinners.

Among the specialties at this cozy bistro are such favorites as onion soup, freshly-made burrata, bœuf bourguignon tacos, duck confit, beef tartar, escargot, gorgonzola mac n’ cheese, and scallops. This restaurant offers several daily specials as well. Avid fans adore the decadent desserts, including the homemade chocolate lava cake and crème brûlée. Brunch is also served on Sundays.

Chaumont Bakery

Chaumont Bakery

The lovely aroma of fresh-from-the-oven pastries and breads combined with brewed coffee greets customers as they step into Chaumont, a beautiful French bakery in Beverly Hills.

Chaumont features an abundance of light, sweet and flaky baked goods of many shapes and sizes inside a long, glass display case. Along with new pastries that are introduced from time to time, you will find an incredible selection that includes croissants, eclairs, pain au chocolat and flourless chocolate cake.

Owner Frederic Laski honors the French tradition and ensures that everything is baked fresh daily. Chaumont also serves light breakfast and lunch items such as salads, omelets and sandwiches made with organic ingredients. It’s not surprising that customers here usually purchase more than they plan on; it’s nearly impossible to leave without wanting to devour everything. There’s typically a line, so if there’s something special you’re craving, it’s best to arrive early or order in advance.

Monsieur Marcel

Although this bistro has been in its current location for years, you can’t help but feel as if you’ve discovered a hidden gem when you arrive at Monsieur Marcel. This outdoor restaurant is tucked away in an unexpected spot – in the back of the Original Farmers Market at The Grove shopping mall in Los Angeles.

Patrons rave about the rustic, quaint ambiance and delightful French classics that have been served up here for decades. Some of their specialties include cheese fondue, moules-frites (mussels with fries), raw oysters, Niçoise salad, burgers, omelets, charcuterie boards and seafood specialties.

Monsieur Marcel is also known for its daily happy hour during the week with half-priced French wines. As an added bonus, this restaurant also has an adjacent gourmet market with a variety of foods, specialty cheeses, chocolates, books, gifts and kitchen-related gadgets from around the world.

République

One of Republique’s appetizers 

A foodie hotspot since opening in 2014, the buzz-worthy République is owned by chefs Walter and Margarita Manzke – the latter of whom has been a James Beard nominee for several years running.

Open all day – with breakfast daily and brunch on Sunday – République offers something for everyone, with a distinctive blend of French and new American specialties. Several favorites include wild Mediterranean loup de mer (with morel and yellowfoot mushrooms and gnocchi), butternut squash agnolotti and Broken Arrow Ranch venison (with baby beets, black truffle and sour cherries).

Housed in a historic structure built by Charlie Chaplin in 1928, the location is as mesmerizing as the food. Once home to the legendary restaurants La Brea Bakery and Campanile, the interior today features soaring ceilings, wooden tables and exposed brick: all within a stylish, fun, airy ambiance. There’s always a crowd here – day and night – so it’s best to make reservations, especially during prime times.

The post Everything You Need to Know about French cuisine in Los Angeles appeared first on Marla Cimini.

Are you planning a trip to Portugal? Get ready to taste some amazing desserts! Pastry lovers may be familiar with traditional Portuguese custard tarts, called Pastéis de Nata, which are creamy, bite-sized delights surrounded by a light pastry shell. These baked confections have a unique history, as they belong to a category of pastries that are often referred to as “Convent Cakes,” and were originally created as a result of equal parts necessity and serendipity.

What is the history of convent cakes? 

Centuries ago, convenience and chance were the catalysts for the inception of these distinctive pastries, as they were made by nuns who lived in convents. These religious community members used egg whites to starch their habits, and needed a purpose for the leftover yolks. After experimenting in the kitchen with a variety of ingredients, they eventually whipped up an array of small, individually-sized cakes that fit in the palm of your hand. Convent cakes were born.

In the 15th and 16th centuries, these cakes were known for their high-quality ingredients, and the recipes were kept as closely-guarded secrets. In more recent years, Portugal has seen a renewed appreciation of these incredibly delicious classic treats as they are experiencing a resurgence in popularity around the country. Today, inventive pastry chefs create a variety of shapes, flavors, and textures.

Taste convent cakes today

Food expert and writer Céilia Pedroso is the author of Eat Portugal: The Essential Guide to Portuguese Food, and conducts culinary tours in Lisbon for Culinary Backstreets. She enjoys introducing food lovers to local specialties, including these distinctive baked goods. She pointed out that there are convent sweets in other European countries, such as Spain and Italy, but due to a law in the 1800s that shut down convents and monasteries in Portugal, the recipes and the custard-filled cakes, such as the famous pastéis de nata, became available to everyone.

Get the Recipe: Queijadas

As Lisbon has been growing as a major tourist destination in recent years, several newer bakeries in the city now specialize in these pastries, including Alcoa, Pudim do Abade, and Casa dos Ovos Moles, the latter of which offers group baking lessons.

Pedroso says, “The Portuguese have always loved these pastries, but it was not always easy to find convent sweets in Lisbon. Now with these new shops available in the city center, we don’t have to go to Aveiro, where the ovos moles were created, or to Alcobaça, the original home of Alcoa, to get them.”

Restaurants in Lisbon that serve convent cakes today

Upscale restaurants are also offering their own versions of tiny specialties. In Lisbon, Michelin-starred chef, José Avillez owns several award-winning restaurants and features a variety of modern-style convent cakes on the menus. At his two-Michelin-starred Belcanto restaurant, Avillez offers a dessert with flavors largely inspired by convent cakes, called Citrus and Egg Sweets. This balanced confection offsets the richness of the egg with a light freshness of citrus.

Avillez explains, “Convent confectionery holds a very rich heritage. There’s an extraordinary world to discover in convent sweets if you’re a dessert lover. At Belcanto, I have Toucinho-do-céu, which translates to heavenly bacon. It’s prepared with pine nuts and almonds cooked at low-temperature, making them crunchy on one side and creamier on the other, served with yuzu purée, along with a combination of herbs, flowers, and salted bacon.”

Get the Recipe: Abade Prisco’s Pudding

Chef Avillez’s other restaurants offer his special pastéis de nata recipe and other, less traditional versions of convent cakes. For example, at Café Lisboa, there’s Toucinho-do-céu de Lisboa. It’s made with egg yolks, almond, and sugar, and served with raspberry sorbet, fresh raspberries, and mint. At Canto, guests can enjoy a traditional version from the country’s Alentejo region that’s made with figleaf gourd.

Avillez mentioned that these treats will always be evolving. “Many chefs and patisseries still follow the original recipes. However, the amount of sugar used in the preparation of these sweets was cut down,” he says. “I think convent sweets that cannot be recreated using less sugar in their preparation might run the risk of disappearing — or being less in demand, because people, as taste evolves, will not be able to tolerate such high levels of sugar.”

Still, Avillez finds Portugal’s history is an essential ingredient in his culinary creations, even if he chooses to improvise and modify along the way. “I love to revisit traditional Portuguese confectionery and to find ways of reinventing it and keeping its soul alive.”

The post What are Portuguese Convent Cakes and why are they so delicious? appeared first on Marla Cimini.

These are nine of the city’s restaurants with scenic views.

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A mosaic of row houses, double-parked cars, and busy corner stores, South Philly is also known for its vibrant food scene. Situated in the area south of Washington Avenue, this iconic neighborhood is home to a variety of great restaurants, ranging from casual and cozy to upscale and classic. Tip: South Philly is a crowded area with limited parking, so it’s always best to take public transportation when visiting any of these restaurants. Here are the top eight restaurants in South Philadelphia.

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The life of a professional surfer may sound like a dream career to many – and female pros including Leila Hurst, Karina Rozunko, Hanna Scott, Caroline Marks and Carissa Moore are multi-award-winning, vibrant and ambitious.

But their lifestyles encompass much more than catching waves; they also adore their hometowns, and are involved in charitable foundations to support their communities and empower women.

Not surprisingly, they are also well-traveled and love to experience the diverse food offerings at beach cafes, in both local spots and exotic destinations. And they shared some of their favorites with us.

Karina Rozunko

Mexican food in San Clemente and a surf bar in Bali

Growing up in Southern California, Karina Rozunko is a longboarder who surfs for the Vans team and also has her own clothing line with the company. She’s currently working on a surfing video project in Australia and Bali.

Her go-to place for an after-surf snack is Cafe Del Sol, located in the charming beach town of San Clemente, California. It’s close to a world-class surf break called Trestles.

She says, “It’s the best Mexican food in San Clemente. The people working there are so funny and charismatic…It’s been my favorite since I was a kid.” She pointed out that she adores the potato tacos, enchiladas and the breakfast burritos.

When she’s in Bali, Indonesia, Rozunko heads to the Surfers Bar in Canggu. She’s a fan of their tempe chips, cap cay (a regional stir-fry), and the fresh juices.

“They serve great, authentic Balinese food for a fraction of the price compared to home. The owner also surfs and makes you feel like family. And you can leave your surfboards down at the beach, which is very convenient.” She added that she loves sipping cocktails and dancing with the staff. “And they make the best papaya daiquiris by request.”

Leila Hurst

Breakfast pastries and pizza in Hawaii and California

Leila Hurst grew up in Hawaii and keeps busy with several projects, including hosting events with her non-profit organization, Shine with Her. It supports and encourages girls by promoting a healthy lifestyle. As an active freesurfer, she plans to travel to Indonesia this year to film surfing adventures with her fellow female Vans team riders.

Her favorite café is the Kilauea Bakery and Pau Hana Pizza in her hometown of Kilauea on the north shore of Kauai. “Our town is small. We don’t have much, not even one stop light,” she says. Growing up, she spent a lot of time at this café and became a loyal customer over the years.

She says, “I love this bakery. It defines my hometown and I love every bit of it. I would stop there before and after school – almost every day for twelve years. I would get breakfast, then eat it at the bus stop, then get lunch and eat it at school – and then sometimes go back after school for a slice of pizza.”

Hurst added, “I’ve always lived on their pesto bagels toasted with cream cheese and their blended vanilla chai. They have an amazing sticky bun – and to be honest I don’t even know what it’s made from, but it has macadamia nuts on the top. So good!”

Her family hails from Mendocino, in Northern California, so she dines at the Goodlife Cafe and Bakery when she’s in town. It’s a cute, cozy eatery with a laid-back ambiance and a robust menu of scratch-made delights for breakfast and lunch. She says, “My favorite items on the menu are the gluten-free pastries and delicious coffee drinks.”

Hanna Scott

Seafood in Tofino and vegan bites in Raglan

Canadian surfer Hanna Scott resides in the iconic surf town of Tofino, British Columbia and is a member of the Vans team. Her favorite hometown beachfront restaurants are in Cox Bay and include Wildside Grill, as well as the Great Room at Long Beach Lodge.

Wildside is a hip, farm-to-table spot where she loves to go for their fresh seafood after surfing. She says, “It’s great for sunset – and in summer, the sun sets at around 10 PM. When my family comes to visit, we ride our bikes over there and hang at the fire pit and order fish and chips.”

She is also a frequent customer at the Great Room at Long Beach Lodge because it offers panoramic views overlooking the ocean. Even when it’s stormy, she may be found sipping coffee or having a snack near the massive fireplace while watching the tides.

She says, “The staff is super nice, and they don’t mind locals lounging around in their fancy hotel restaurant while waiting to go surf. It’s pretty fun.”

When she’s on the other side of the world in New Zealand, Scott heads to Solscape in Raglan, near where she lived years ago. Solscape is an innovative eco-lodge with a vegan restaurant that serves up plant-based specialties.

She explained that this cafe is located in between points, so it’s a convenient spot for her to grab a bite to eat and then catch more waves.

She says, “It’s not right on the beach, it’s up on a hill, but you can see the ocean. They serve amazing food that’s grown right in their garden.” She added that she always sees lots of monarch butterflies there and she finds it to be a relaxing and restful oasis.

Caroline Marks

Healthy bowls and fro-yo in San Clemente and Thai food in Australia

Caroline Marks, professional surfer — Photo courtesy of Red Bull

The youngest female to compete in a World Surf League event, Caroline Marks is currently training for upcoming competitions and the Summer Olympics. She’s a member of the Red Bull team and her favorite hometown café is Active Culture in San Clemente, California, where she’s been known to hang out and enjoy a post-surf meal since moving there as a teen.

Marks says, “Everyone is super cool in there, and it’s really healthy, quick and easy, which is convenient after I surf all morning. I love the ‘wholesome bowl’ – it’s very filling, but my favorite is the frozen yogurt.” She added, “I have a lot of memories going there with my friends and my brothers – it’s a cool vibe. It’s mellow, the food is good – not much more you can ask for.”

When Marks is traveling in Australia, she adores Torquay Thai in Bells Beach, which is close to Melbourne. “It’s amazing – the best Thai food I’ve ever had. Pretty sure last time I was there on tour, I went there every single night. I always get the curry. I can’t wait for the event again this year to go back.”

Carissa Moore

Vegan bowls in Honolulu and milkshakes in South Africa

Carissa Moore, professional surfer — Photo courtesy of Red Bull

As a fourth-time world champion, Carissa Moore recently became the first Hawaiian to qualify for the Olympic surf team. She’s sponsored by Red Bull and has established the Moore Aloha Charitable Foundation to empower young women through surfing.

At home in Oahu, Hawaii, her favorite spot is Banán on University Avenue in Honolulu (one of four locations). She admits that she’s a bit biased because her husband, Luke Untermann is the owner of this café where they create vegan banana-based specialties.

She says, “It’s healthy, it fills you, and you feel good after. The ambiance of the location is extra special because my husband did the build-out. There are a lot of plants and beautiful artwork, and I just love the color scheme – it’s a happy vibe in there.”

Naturally, her favorite menu item is the “Riss Moore bowl.” She explained, “It’s obviously all of my favorite flavors and things put into a bowl – banana acai swirl with pineapple, papaya, strawberries, puffed quinoa and honey. I like to add an extra scoop of macadamia nut butter.”

When Moore travels to South Africa, where she has surfed in the J-Bay competition, she heads to InFood Bakery in Jeffreys Bay, and is especially fond of their milkshakes and artisan pastries.

“It’s healthy, everything is organic and a lot of love is put into every dish. The people there are really friendly and the atmosphere is great. The morning after I won Jeffreys Bay in 2019, Luke and I had a really nice breakfast there.”

The post The Best Beachside Restaurants, According To These Professional Female Surfers appeared first on Marla Cimini.