Locals enjoy the simple, fresh ingredients while expats enjoy tucking into an authentic dish reminiscent of the comforts of far-off homelands. Pizzas and pastas are equally popular, with Italian desserts and wines rounding out the dining experience. Most who visit Bangkok’s Italian restaurants are impressed by their caliber of food and décor, thanks to the Italian chefs and owners who put a tremendous effort into creating a well-rounded experience.

Here are just five of some of the best-regarded Italian restaurants in heart of Bangkok:

• Bella Napoli

Located on Sukumvit Soi 33, the restaurant is famous for its wood-fired pizza and has a one-time entry, one layer or two layer salad bar option. It has the most laid-back atmosphere in the top five.

• Limoncello

The second restaurant opened by the successful Zanotti Group in Thailand, is arguably their most talked about. A smart, casual restaurant tucked away in Sukumvit Soi 11 with many pizzas and calzones on offer.

• Basilico

As a pizzeria, this restaurants boasts over 50 pizza combinations, well made desserts and locations on Sukumvit Soi 33 and 20. The large glass windows and plethora of potted plants make the otherwise bustling restaurants feel calm.

• Fallabella

An upscale, professional hangout on Ratchadamri Rd with an offshoot branch in Siam Paragon. The menu is southern Italian and the restaurant is located on the ultra exclusive grounds of the Royal Bangkok Sports Club.

• Biscotti

A well-known contemporary Italian favorite at the Four Seasons Hotel. It offers an urbane and well rounded choice of antipasti, pastas and desserts.

3 Bangkok Hotels with an Italian Restaurant

• Hotel President Park – Double Room: €48
• Hotel Amari Watergate – Double Room: €68
• Hotel City Lodge I – Double Room: €48

Photo of Italian pizza in Bangkok, Thailand, by Effie.Y.

Guides to steer us around the eternal city, Top 5s, and the “Best” lists are as a result plentiful to say the least. But we are often ultimately confronted with the harsh reality of the check: glamorous Roman holidays are potentially by no means cheap. The “best” restaurants are often unaffordable. Or, quite simply, we pay much more than what the food actually deserved. Here are some suggestions for upscale but honest, well-priced and truly enjoyable eats and drinks in Rome and beyond.

1. Tutti Frutti

Via Luca della Robbia, 5,

This unpretentious restaurant in Testaccio is certainly worth the visit. The food is 100% seasonal and fresh- and did I mention delicious? Let the friendly owner talk you through the menu (in English-albeit broken- too!) and indulge in pizzelle as a starter, and certainly eventually in desert- even simply in vin santo with traditional Italian biscotti and chocolate. Price: approx. 20-30€ per person.

2. La Vecchia Locanda

Vicolo Sinibaldi, 2, Tel. 0668802831

Oddly enough this little place is hardly reported on, which is a shame- or perhaps a blessing- because it is truly worthwhile. Tucked away in a little alley behind Largo Argentina, this restaurant serves quality food full of ambiance. The wine list is excellent, and in the summer you can sit outside and enjoy the breeze. The insalata di polpo e patate is a recommended starter, the trofie are a divine first course and the steak cooked in Barolo is also very good if you’re interested in a second course. La Vecchia Locanda is certainly worthwhile in terms of food, quality and service- and won’t break the bank. Price: approx. 25-35€ per person.

3. La Cantina Tirolese

- Via G. Vitelleschi, 23, Tel. 0668135297

If you’re in the mood for a slightly different culinary experience from traditional Italian fare head to La Cantina Tirolese, a restaurant behind Castel Sant’Angelo and St. Peter’s Cathedral specialized in Tyrolean cuisine- yes, that means Italo-Bavarian. The restaurant is, apparently, one of Pope Ratzinger’s favorites. Especially tasty are the knodel, bourguignonne, and if you really want to lead your palate to Bavaria the strudel. Price: approx. 25-35€ per person.

4. Lago di Martignano- Enoteca Spirito Di…Vino

Via Garibaldi 43/45, Trevignano Romano. Tel. 069999085

If you’re in the mood for a fun and relaxing Saturday, take the train (Roma-Viterbo line) to Anguillara Sabazia, take the bus (from Lepanto metro stop, for instance), or drive up the Cassia, if you’re perspicacious enough to have rented a car, and head to Martignano Lake, approximately 30 km from Rome. During the summer it is a veritable beach but lucky for us is not as frequented as Ostia or actual seaside, coastal locations. The scenery is beautiful, you can buy a beer in one of the several kiosks and even enjoy a horseback ride from the nearby Il Casale di Martignano farm and bed and breakfast. You can also rent boats to take across the lake.

Once you’ve had your fill of the lake, head to Trevignano Romano, a small lakeside town on the much larger but nearby Bracciano lake and have dinner at the Enoteca Spirito…Di Vino, a delightful little restaurant on the lakeside. The owners are friendly and talkative and believe in the relaxing, slow food experience- be prepared to be there for 3 hours or more. But it is certainly worth it- the starters are excellent of course but the best treat at Spirito Di…Vino is the fiocchetti filled with caramelized pear on a bed of melted taleggio cheese. And not to be missed are the polpette (meatballs) of veal cooked in white wine. The wines are excellent, and the desserts, especially the cialde, deserve to be eaten. Price: approx. 30€ per person.

3 Rome Hotels with a Restaurant

• Hotel Excel Roma Montemario – 4-star Hotel – Room Price €75
• Hotel H10 Roma Città – 4-star Hotel – Room Price €144
• Hotel Holiday Inn Rome Parco De’ Medici – 4-star Hotel – Room Price €130

Photo of pasta by Rev.Santino

It’s not every day that I get to see people eat bugs, rats and even animals which we consider as pets. But if you’re a tourist visiting Hanoi in Vietnam, prepare yourself to be gastronomically astonished for some of the dishes served in Hanoi do not belong to the normal food fare; at least for us who are used to eating the less eccentric stuff. If you’re feeling adventurous, read on, but don’t say I didn’t warn you.

1. Fat and Juicy Nhộng

The protein-rich Nhộng or silkworm pupa is considered a delicacy in Hanoi. Rapidly stir-fried in cooking oil, other strong-tasting ingredients such as green onions and fish sauce are then added to enhance the taste of the plump silkworm carcasses. Nhộng is moist inside and can spurt out guts and fluids as you bite them so chew slowly and be careful not to get any bug juice on your shirt.

2. Crunchy Crickets

I wonder how Jiminy the Cricket would feel if he knew that his kind are sought after and eaten in Hanoi. Specialty restaurants deep fry these six-legged chirping delights for five to ten minutes to be made as toppings for salads and noodle dishes because of their unique nutty taste. Others want their crickets battered, deep-fried, and mixed with some sliced hot chili peppers and a squeeze of lemon as a perfect accompaniment for an ice-cold beer. Want fries with that!?

3. Cheaper than Chicken

Farther up north along the countryside parts of Hanoi, peasants and farmers use dogs to hunt farm rats which are to be cooked or sold in the market. Farm rats are edible because they only eat crops and water snails, unlike their city cousins. Farm rats are skinned, chopped in the middle, and cleaned and can either be char-broiled, deep fried, or even boiled in water mixed with different spices to add flavor to the rat’s succulent and sometimes fatty meat. Unfortunately, I don’t have the slightest idea how they taste like but I’m curious and would love to know someday.

4. Manly Meal: Snakes on a Plate

The Le Mat or “Snake Village” is one of the most popular places to eat in Hanoi. And yes, you guessed that right, it’s a village where they only serve snake. First, you get to choose which snake you want to eat. Then, its still-beating heart, bile, gallbladder, and blood (said to be an aphrodisiac) will be placed in shot glasses will be mixed with very strong home-made rice liquor in which you, the guest of honor, must gulp down. The rest of the snake including its skin, bones, and innards will be cooked in many different dishes which will be served as a multi-course meal. I can already feel my chest hairs growing just by reading this.

5. It’s a Man-Eat-Dog World

The northern region of Hanoi is a cold place and dog meat is believed to provide warmth to those who eat it. So if you ever see an animal without a curly tail being roasted in an open pit flame in Hanoi, chances are, it’s not a pig. Not everyone in Hanoi agrees that eating “man’s best friend” is a good thing but it will keep on selling since there’s a huge market of dog meat eaters in Hanoi and generally, the whole of Vietnam.

Photo of dog meat in Hanoi, Vietnam, by Morak Faxe

Pubs are very popular today and that is a direct result from a lot of “expats” living in Budapest. On the other hand, it has also resulted from the low cost airlines that bring a multitude of those weekenders touring the city.

Belgium beer, German beer, and “pints” of the more traditional British ales and beers can be found in most of the current establishments. Additionally, the food found in these pubs is nothing shy of excellent and you are able to eat exceptionally well considering that their menus offer hamburgers, rustic snacks, and steaks to the delight of most traveling palates.

At nightfall, nearly Pub metamorphoses into a club (disco-esque), complete with dancing and excellent local music. Naturally, there is a wide array of choices when it comes to flirting with the opposite gender. Here is a list of the more frequented and popular pubs in Budapest:

#1 – Caledonia Pub and Sportsbar

Authentic Scottish Pub that offers the best beers from home for the visiting Scotsman. Caledonia’s ambiance is exceptional as appears like a Scottish situated in the midst of downtown Budapest. In addition to those tasty Scottish beers, foods as well as souvenirs from home can be had as well.

#2 – Irish Cat Pub

A favorite place of Budapest expats to hang out and mingle, this establishment is located at Kalvin ter in the heart of Budapest. Easter and Halloween are just two of the events during the year where the club hosts special parties and features the best in local live music.

#3 – Fat Mo’s

Located in the heart of Budapest’s most “touristy” section next to Vaci utca, this well-known place is frequented by expats and tourists on a regular basis. Live music every evening and excellent dining is the main fare at Fat Mo’s.

#4 – Becketts Pub and Sportsbar

Well known for featuring live Budapest football (soccer), especially the English Premier League, and like so many other pubs in the city, offers beer in pints, great food, and an English pub-like atmosphere.

#5 – Old Man’s Music Pub

One of the most favorite hang-outs for Budapest expats. full of expats. You would never be able to guess how large the place is based on the tiny entrance that you pass through.

#6 – Jam Pub

Located in the cellar of the popular Mammut Shopping Center, the entrance is located between the two Mammut buildings. Men normally pay a small cover fee while the girls get in free of charge.

Popular Budget Hotels in Budapest

• Jade Guest House – Double room: €20 per night
• Origo Hostel & Guest House – Double room: €34 per night
• Villa Korall Panzio – double room: €39 per night
• Pension Papillon – Double room: €55 per night
• Dominik Panzio – Double room: €27 per night

Photo of Fat Mo’s by FatMandy

If you are on the look out of chilling out and relaxing after a day of sightseeing, here is a list of some of the best pubs and restaurants in Agrigento:

Atenea Street and Viale della Vittoria

Situated in the nearby city of San Leone 2km from the center of Agrigento, this is where you will find the majority of the bars and pubs geared to the younger age groups although it is frequented by tourists in most age groups. The Oceanomare is probably the nicest pub and restaurant in the area although the Ficus Bar and Le Dynamique are excellent choices as well.

You will find if you visit either of these two pub and restaurant lined streets that the ones situated on Atenea Street are more casual, whereas the pubs and restaurants located on the Viale della Vittoria are more fashionable and upper class. So make sure you’re dressed accordingly depending on which area you’re going to visit. Keep in mind that the majority of the locals have the tendency to dress up a bit in the evenings.

Agrigento’s Restaurant Scene

Agrigento is widely known for its wide array of Greek and Sicilian cuisine and we have listed what we feel are the top restaurants in the Agrigento area:

• Spizzulio – Italian and Mediterranean delicatessen

• QOC – a must for dining with some outstanding Italian faire

• Baglio Sicilia Antica – the best in Sicilian cuisine

• Ruga Reali – Greek and Italian cuisine, mostly seafood entrees

• Expanificio – fine Italian cuisine geared to the budget conscious traveler

• Pizzeria Jack – kid-friendly pizzeria that serves other Italian dishes as well

• La Borghesiana – one of the better Italian and Mediterranean restaurants for pasta and pizza

• Perbacco Ristorante Vineria – one of the top Italian menus in Agrigento

• Trattoria dei Templi – again another top choice for Italian cuisine but a bit pricey

• Leon d’Oro – probably the priciest restaurant in Agrigento ($50 to $60 per person), but the menu is an amazing mixture of Italian, Mediterranean, and Sicilian cuisine

If you’re more into Mediterranean cuisine with a little Greek thrown in for good measure, we recommend you try the Akropolis Restaurant. It can get a bit expensive though as plates average any where from $40 to $60 per plate. One way or the other, this one is worth it.

Top 5 Agrigento Hotels with a restaurant

• Hotel Costazzura – 3-Star Hotel – Double from €60
• Baia di Ulisse Beach Hotel – 4-Star Hotel – Double from €69
• Kaos Hotel Best Western – 4-Star Hotel – Double from €79
• Hotel Demetra Resort – 4-Star Hotel – Double from €99
• Colleverde Park Hotel – 4-Star Hotel – Double from €104

Photo of Sicilian pasta courtesy of Colleverde Park Hotel, Agrigento, Italy

The sprawling city is dotted with a plethora of restaurants to satisfy any desire or taste. From luxurious french cuisine to the corner curry wurst stand you can find a range of great options to fit any budget. However, I am going to focus on the cheaper side where there is still an amazing assortment of great restaurants.

1. Middle eastern restaurant in the Kreutzberg district

First off is an amazing middle eastern restaurant in the Kreutzberg district. Located on Spreewaldplatz across from Goerlitzer park and a few meters from the Goerlitzer Bahnhof on the U1 line is a wonderful little place usually overflowing with people. Perhaps the best schwarma and falafel in Berlin, this place will leave you stuffed and satisfied. Order the plate for 2 if you are with a friend and you will be presented with a giant pile of deliciousness. An abundance of roasted chicken, falafel balls, deep fried feta cheese, humus and a selection of salads will delight your tastebuds. Wash it down with wonderful black tea, offered free of charge with every meal. Best of all a meal for two will be under 10 euro and will probably leave you with leftovers for an after bar snack.

2. Trendy Wine Bar in Prenzlauer Berg

In Prenzlauer Berg, there is a wonderful cafe that has a unique dinning experience. During the day they serve coffee and the typical accompanying pastries as well as wonderful homemade soups for only two euro a bowl. It might be the best deal in town for a midday meal. There are usually two options available with one meat and one vegetarian. As the day turns to dusk the place transforms into a trendy wine bar with a catch – it is based on the honor system. Each guest pays one euro to get a glass and then helps themselves to as much wine as they want – a variety of white and red wines are available as well as some roses and dessert wines. A limited buffet is also offered starting at 8 pm although it is often gone by 8:30. At the end of the evening each person is responsible for paying as much as they feel is appropriate for the amount of food and drink they consumed. You place your payment in a large glass jar and step outside into the cool Berlin night. The cafe sits at the corner of Fehrbelliner Strasse and Veteranenstrasse across for Volkspark am Weinberg.

3. Curry Wurst in Kreutzberg

For our last edible delight I will talk about something that is not necessarily unique in Berlin but rather unique to Berlin. There is nothing quite like a piping hot curry wurst after a night on the town. A fried bockwurst covered in ketchup and curry powder and your choice of sides – I would go for the fried onions – is definitely not the healthiest choice but one of the most satisfying. Although they aren’t hard to find, a great curry wurst is worth seeking out. I would recommend looking in two places. Curry 36 on Mehringdamm 36 – I wonder where they got their name – once again in Kreutzberg has the reputation of being the best wurst stand in the city. It is busy at almost any hour of the day with people bursting out onto the sidewalk. Best visited with a belly full of beer! If you happen to be in town in the fall winter or spring and its a Saturday check to see if their is a Herta football match. This is my second recommendation for the ideal environment for a hearty curry wurst. Vendors line up outside the stadium offering all sorts of beers and of course the famous German sausages. Grab one before and after the game!

There are so many great meal options in Berlin and almost all are affordable for all types of travelers. These three offer a combination of affordability, great taste and of course some local charm.

Top 5 Budget Hotels in Berlin

• Hotel Alte Feuerwarche – Double Room from €34
• Hotel Berolina – Double Room from €35
• Amstel House Berlin Hostel – Double Room from €49
• Pension Gasteiner Hof - Double Room from €54
• Generator Berlin Hostel – Double Room from €64

Photo of currywurst plate by Kent Wang

Regardless of which one of these towns you spend time in, the nightlife at the bars and pubs in and around Desenzano del Garda will keep you hopping until the wee hours of the morning. The following is a list of what we feel is the best bars in the Desenzano del Garda area and surrounding towns.

The Barracuda

Oftentimes rated as a must-see pub in Lake Garda so it is always busy in there once the sun sets. It is a very popular spot with locals and tourists alike. A fun-filled environment with excellent décor, The Barracuda needs to be the #1 priority for a great evening out while visiting the Lake Garda area, especially if you can hang with the locals into the early hours of morning.

The Piano Bar

Situated within the confines of the Grand Hotel, this Lake Garda piano style bar rates on the list of must-see nightspots. The hotel features a pool bar at its private beachfront that is open most hours of the day and into the late evening. So it’s a great jaunt for a late night out. There is also a terrace for dining and drinking complete with a live pianist to set the mood.

Art Club Disco

If you’re looking for a bar or a pub, that features dancing, dining, and drinking this is the best of all three worlds. It serves up some of the most tantalizing dishes anywhere in Lake Garda, features a great bar menu, and the dancing venue is probably the most popular in the lake area. But be aware that this is a venue that caters to a younger crowd so at times it gets a bit boisterous and loud in there.

Hollywood Discotheque

Patterned after bars and pubs that you would see around Hollywood and Vine or Sunset Blvd., this disco rocks American style. It is considered to be the happening place for locals from the younger generation to the middle aged crowd and the tourists are always welcome and treated very well. Patterned after a Hollywood villa that looks like it was a 1950’s throwback, Hollywood Discotheque is considered the most happening place at the Lake.

Café Filippini

A great dining and drinking experience to consider when you’re at the lake. One of the best features about this café is that it is open from 8am until 2am Thursdays through Tuesdays. Wednesdays are the only days that they close so you’d have to make another choice to cover that night of the week.

Top 5 Desenzano del Garda Hotels:

• Residence Il Sogno – 4-star Hotel – Room price €90
• Villa Rosa Desenzano Hotel – 4-star Hotel – Room price €170
• Hotel Piccola Vela -  4-star Hotel – Room price €140
• Palace Hotel – 4-star Hotel – Room price €140
• Park Hotel – 4-star Hotel – Room price €140

Photo of cocktail drinks by Suskela

Dubai, a wealthy desert playground in the Middle East and home to some of the world’s most exclusive hotels and shopping malls contains perhaps the most diverse and eclectic variety of restaurants that any city has ever known.

From Cuban cuisine to even Mongolian, there truly is something for everyone. But of course, we’re not looking for humble backstreet fodder to ward off starvation here, but only the tastiest and (justifiably) expensive eateries that Dubai has to offer.

5. Verre – The Hilton, Dubai Creek

Dining at this large French Restaurant which is owned by Gordon Ramsay, the chef who’s more famous for professional swearing than professional cooking, will prove expensive, with meal costs stretching well into the triple digits. While the interior leaves something to be desired and the restaurant is somewhat antique compared to the new restaurants even now springing up like daisies all over Dubai, the fabulous minestrone with langoustines and minty crème brulee are sure to make it worth a visit.

4. Spectrum on one – The Fairmont Hotel

This ambitious multi-cuisine dining hangout popular with Dubai’s multicultural (and wealthy) crowd has food cooked before your very eyes from China, India, Japan, Europe, Thailand and the Middle East. The service is super polite and the servers like to add a forced personal touch to compliment their strained smiles. The only things which should be avoided are the somewhat mediocre desserts. Champagne brunch, with unlimited European bubbly, is offered at a shade over €100.

3. India Palace – Garhoud

With a slogan like “Dine like a Maharaja”, you know this sort of establishment has a lot to live up to. It’s also the cheapest restaurant on this list, with a three-course meal costing around €30 – all accompanied by live music and a terrific ambience. Items on the menu include Biryani and kormas, as well as extremely tasty Chicken Kebabs. Vegetarians may also prefer India Palace, as there is a Vegetarian emphasis here not known in many of Dubai’s other restaurants.

2. Beachcombers – The Jumeirah Beach Hotel

The emphasis on this restaurant serving Japanese, Indian, Thai, and even Malaysian cuisines is primarily on the family, with low tables and even PlayStations. Adults will enjoy knowing that their children are being well entertained whilst soaking up views of the magnificent Burj al Arab, the world’s only (self-proclaimed) seven star Hotel. It’s classy without being childish and the food is top quality. It’s an award winning, and of course correspondingly costly place to take your family, with prices for a meal at around €70-90.

1. JW’s Steakhouse – JW Marriot Dubai

Dubai’s most well known (and considered to be best) steakhouse, resplendent with classy designer interior, leather armchairs, deliciously soft steaks, and even just-off-the-boat seafood and lobster is considered among the be-all-and-end-all of culinary experiences in the city. However far the human race goes in gourmet sophistication, there’s hardly anything that appeals to the caveman instinct as much as simple, unadulterated prized animal matter. No, there is no “modern twist on old classics” or any of the boring old restaurant critic stock-phrases here, just pure meat and baked potatoes, delivered just right and screaming of classic quality. Marlon Brando. Frank Sinatra. James Dean. I contest that they all would have eaten here were they still alive. Isn’t that a good enough reason to justify the €100 and above for some meat and potatoes?

Popular Dubai Hotels & Restaurants on Venere.com

• Hotel Al Khaalej – 3-star hotel featuring a pizza restaurant
• Metropolitan Hotel Dubai – 4-star hotel with Indian restaurant, seafood restaurant, Italian restaurant and International restaurant.
• Flora Creek Hotel Apartments – 5-star hotel offering the Olive Tree Restaurant (Arabic and Asian cuisine)
• Al Manzil Hotel – 4-star hotel with sports grill restaurant, gourmet restaurant, Arabic restaurant and coffee shop
• Al Murooj Rotana Hotel – 5-star hotel with Indian restaurant, Lebanese restaurant, Latino restaurant and all-day dining International restaurant.

Photo of Towers Rotana Hotel, Dubai by Jessamyn

The city dates back to Medieval times so it is steeped in both culture and history. It is most noted as being St. Francis of Assisi’s birthplace a man who holds a great deal of artistic, historical, and religious significance. It is situated roughly 90 miles to the north of Rome and for all practical purposes is a must-see city on any Italian vacation itinerary.

This is especially the case if you are searching for Vegan and Vegetarian cuisine in Assisi and the surrounding cities. We have listed a 5 of those particular restaurants which you should experience and ones that we feel are “can’t-miss” dining experiences while you are there on holiday or for an extended vacation. They are as follows:

1. Ai Cavalieri – Petrignano

Located on Via Matteotti, this restaurant is one that you will absolutely fall in love with due to its location in the valley area of Petrignano just south of Assisi. The faire here is nothing short of excellent and is quite possibly at the top of our list.

2. Ristorante San Francesco – Assisi

Situated on the Via Francesco, the menu is filled with a myriad of excellent choices. Just be aware that it carries a price tag equivalent to the restaurant’s ambience and atmosphere. Their Vegetarian Lasagna made with farro pasta are what most would say is “to die for”, but it will cost you.

3. Alter Ego – Perugia

Located in Perugia, this restaurant has some of the best lunch and dinner faire in this quaint city and is a huge favorite of locals. So be prepared for a crowd and a long wait at dinnertime. But don’t let that discourage you from sampling their cuisine. Situated in a dark alley with a dark entrance, this establishment is very hip by younger Italian standards based on the very young pair of brothers who own the restaurant.

4. Osteria del Gufo – Perugia

Located on the Via della Viola in Perugia, this restaurant features the finest in Vegetarian Bohemian cuisine despite its “hole-in-the-wall” appearance. It will mind you of dining along the Rive Gauche (Left Bank) in Paris and has a fabulous chocolate mousse. However, the dining quarters are very cramped and the restaurant seats only 50 people at most, so dining elbow-to-elbow is commonplace.

5. Piazzetta delle Erbe – Assisi

Those this charming and small trattoria situated on Via S. Gabrielle dell’Addolorata in Assisi provides you with a great atmosphere, its simplicity is what makes the establishment so special. Just beware that the menu is not entirely Vegan or Vegetarian and does feature meat entrees.

Top 5 Popular Assisi Hotels & Restaurants on Venere.com

• Villa di Assisi Hotel & Resort – 4-star Hotel – Restaurant serving traditional, local cuisine
• Hotel La Terrazza - 3-star Hotel – Restaurant offering good food at reasonable price
• La Fortezza Hotel - 2-star Hotel – Restaurant serving a vast choice of traditional Umbrian dishes
• Minerva Hotel Assisi - 2-star Hotel – Restaurant offering both local dishes and international specialties
• Hotel Pallotta - 2-star Hotel – Restaurant offering excellent local specialties in a relaxing atmosphere

Photo of vegetarian lasagna by Ciro Boro

Take time to venture along Wittevrouwensingel – the city’s main street – or the Oudegracht (a.k.a. the old canal). Church bells are certain to be tolling, depending on the time of day that you venture down these well-walked streets. There is a lot that can be said about the other major cities in the country – Amsterdam, The Hague, and Rotterdam – but Utrecht is a must-visit destination while in the Netherlands.

The restaurant venue will astound you with both local and international cuisine featured on numerous menus in the city. Utrecht offers a wide array options for dining out so you can grab a burger, eat falafel or dine on shawarma if you feel like it. With the assortment of venues in the city, there is something for every palate. The following is a list of the more commonly recommended restaurants in Utrecht.

• Oudaen

One of the classier restaurants in Utrecht where ambiance and charm is concerned. The restaurant is actually situated within a 13th century castle. The bar and dining room is the location of where the knights of the castle used to commune after a long day of doing battle and protecting the kingdom. The restaurant is a bit pricey compared to others, but the cuisine is sure to please.

• Havana

Cuban atmosphere to go with the same cuisine. The establishment is more casual and relaxing than some of the other restaurants in the area. The serving staff is extremely friendly and bends over backwards especially for UK and US visitors. On Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings, the tables are removed at 11:00 for dancing purposes and live entertainment.

• Mi Madre

One of the first things you (or more likely your nose) will notice is that the air in this restaurant is inundated with the aroma of garlic, a typical addition to most Spanish entrees. It can get a little strong, so if garlic is not for you, then you would be wise to find another dining establishment. If, however, this is not an issue, and you are craving true Spanish cuisine at its finest anywhere outside of Spain, this restaurant is a must-visit destination while in Utrecht.

• Mikonos

A fine Greek restaurant with a very full menu of choices to indulge in. The mixed grill faire with a dinner salad and some Ouzo comes highly recommended when dining here. Additionally, the restaurant has one of the most efficient and friendliest serving staffs anywhere in the city.

• De Bakkerswinkel Café

This is one of the best stops for breakfast and lunch in Utrecht and is located right off Dam Square. Despite having a longer wait than usual at other area cafes, the wait here is well worth it.

Top Utrecht Hotels with a Restaurant:

• Hotel Park Plaza Utrecht – 4-star hotel – Double room from €71
• Hotel NH Utrecht – 4-star hotel – Double room from €156
• Hotel Karel V – 5-star hotel – Double room from €139

Photo of pieces of cakes at De Bakkerswinkel Café, Utrecht, Netherlands, by Lukas Vermeer

1. Czech Republic

The Czech Republic is the unsung hero of the beer world, being so often overlooked in favour of neighbouring Germany and yet recently fighting off competition from the multinational corporation Budweiser to retain the rights to the original Budwar brand. Prague has the most variety and as an added bonus is also one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. Real devotees will want to head to Plzen, however, as this is the spiritual home of Czech beer. Each October the town hosts the Pilsner Fest which is the largest celebration of beer in the Czech Republic and a real highlight for beer pilgrims.

2. Great British Beer Festival

Beer lovers should appreciate Britain generally because of the wealth and diversity of beers available around the country. However, if you are short of time to tour the country and wade through the mass produced rubbish to find the real classics then the Great British Beer Festival is a great way to bring the mountain to Mohammed. Held each August, the festival showcases a huge variety of domestic and international beers in a friendly and accessible environment not far from central London.

3. Munich Oktoberfest

Oktoberfest has a reputation which has spread around the globe and spawned many similar or imitating beer festivals in far flung corners of the globe. The original is still the best, however, with nothing yet matching the scale and ambition of pure beer devotion displayed in Munich each year. Most people don’t realise that the food is almost as important for the festival as the beer and it is a great chance to try some German delicacies alongside the huge amounts of beer consumed by all involved. When you leave you may appreciate why the shape of Bavarian men is traditionally quite rotund.

4. The Great American Beer festival (Denver)

While American beer does not have a great reputation amongst connoisseurs, the Great American Beer Festival in Denver is none the less a great way to sample the wide range and especially to focus on the smaller scale breweries which make up for in quality what they lack in name recognition.

5. The Tasmanian Beerfest

One of the newest Antipodean beer festivals, the Tasmanian Beerfest is quickly establishing itself a reputation as one of the best. The festival is quite refined by beer festival standards, perhaps needing to provide a unique selling point to draw visitors to its remote but beautiful island off the coast of a remote country.

6. New York

New York is the great melting pot of the world, and while it is not known particularly for its beer, the many cultures that have migrated through or made their home in the city that never sleeps have left their mark. The variety of beers available is truly impressive allowing sampling variety, but visitors should be aware that many brands will not be served at their best so far from home.

7. Biketoberfest

What do you get if you put a motorcycle rally and a beer festival together in Florida? Biketoberfest. Located on Daytona beach this festival will sound like a nightmare to some and a dream to others, I shall let you make your own mind up.

8. Bruges

Bruges is not known as a party town, and it doesn’t want to be either. But the combination of the best Belgian beer and preserved medieval charm is attractive in a quiet way.

9. Blumenau (Brazil)

One of the best franchise variants of Oktoberfest is the one held in Blumenau in Brazil. As is fairly obvious from the name, the city has had a decent amount of migration from Germany and so the festival is more a chance for the locals to celebrate their history and culture rather than bar and restaurant owners cashing in while their patrons get mindlessly drunk.

10. Hong Kong

Perhaps the most incongruous variant of Oktoberfest is the one that has been held in Hong Kong each year since the early 90’s. Originally based in the Marco Polo Hotel and still based there, the festival has spread to other venues and is now a great way to infuse Bavarian tradition with Asian modernity.

Photo of glass of beer in Bruges, Belgium, by Erik de Queker

Thailand offers many exotic attractions – from beaches, to women, and dishes. Here’s a look at the myriad of exotic eats you could try while in Thailand:

Leaping from the rice paddies to your rice plates

In Bangkok’s red-light district, peddlers fill small plastic bags with the crispy critters of your craving.

While you can spot these exotic foods in many areas in Bangkok, another popular location is Khao San Road or the backpacker’s barrio due to the influx of foreigners.

Crickets, black scorpion, grasshopper, water bug, and maggots are among the varieties of insects fried and seasoned with salt, pepper or chilli and sold in bug carts.

In the northeastern Ubon province of Thailand, near the Cambodian border, the New York Times once wrote that the impoverished locals will fry up anything on six legs in pursuit of inexpensive sources of dietary protein. That includes ants, scorpions, silkworms, crickets and their larvae.

The crickets that are yet to be grilled or deep-fried lie in semiconscious states on banana leaves or bowls. The wriggling of the creatures is a good sign suggesting it’s fresh from last night’s catch and that no pesticides were used in the capture.

1. Once You Pop These Hoppers, You Can’t Stop

Closely related to crickets are the grasshoppers. Much like their kin, grasshoppers are typically deep fried in oil and then seasoned in chili powder. Fried to a crisp, the grasshopper’s crunchy skin cracks and pops in your teeth (hmmm, popcorn, is it?).

The Thais also have a version of sautéed grasshoppers. One suggested that you don’t eat the legs (Why? Why not?).

2. Care for a Cup of McBugs?

Tired of Fried? Allow me to mention the other ways a bug is cooked – raw (chopped and added to chili-based sauces and salads) and steamed (in a banana leaf with curry sauce).

In Isan, Thailand, villagers harvest many varieties of bugs. Big, black water beetles are regarded as a special delicacy. The legs get stuck between your teeth, though (Toothpick, anyone?).

3. Crawling into Your Cuisine…. the Arachnids

In Ubon, Thailand, there’s a scorpion-based Viagra substitute for men.

Tarantula tasters say it tastes like scrawny chicken wings coated in especially sweet plum sauce - with hairs on.

They also say that pulling the legs off without squeezing the pus out of the abdomen can be tricky (Should I be worried with the pus or the hair?).

Some gourmets say the abdomen is the sweetest part, with the texture of a soft goat’s eyeball and tasting just like cold duck.

4. Bats Fly from Trees to Tables

In Baan Toom, bats are roasted over charcoal fires or minced into a traditional Thai dish. With a big grin on their faces, the elderly farmers here claim that the bat’s meat does wonders on their libido and stamina (To the men out there, Batman to the rescue!).

Locals can bag as many as 200 squealing and struggling bats in a single day.

Bats are first soaked in boiling water. Then, their furs are plucked, after which they are roasted on charcoal – wings, guts and all. The chopped-up meat is mixed with fresh herbs, a little sugar and spicy paste before fried.

5. Ants in the Pants and the Pans

Ant eggs are a delicacy in Thailand, especially in the northern and eastern parts of the country. These are the big ants that grow on trees. Ants are an alternative protein source. They can be prepared in many ways – in soups and stir-fries. They contribute more of a tangy flavor than any real nutritional value.

Kai Mot Daeng or red ant eggs may appear like white beans but look closely, taste it and you’ll know the difference. Ant eggs are served in salads, soups or fried with eggs.

Jeffrey Steingarten, author of “The Man Who Ate Everything,” lived by the saying “Try everything once because if you don’t try it, you won’t know if you like it.”

Let’s face it though, not everyone has an appetite for it. It takes a wild adventurous streak, not to mention cultural, religious and economic considerations, to turn those tree, garden, sink, and rice paddy creatures into a stomach-churning buffet.

But for those who seek gastronomic adventure, skip the steak and head on to Thailand and see how locals spice up their life with variety.

Top Bangkok Hotels with Gourmet Restaurants:

• Hotel Lebua at State Tower
• Hotel Amari Watergate
• Hotel Siam  City

Photo of food stall in Bangkok, Thailand, by Killerturnip

In a city like Rome you can actually feel yourself sinking into the melting asphalt. Of course you can scramble for some shade, maybe in the eclipse of some colossal monument or in the refuge of a cool air-filled marble church. You could take a trip to some of the many green parks such as Villa Ada or Villa Borghese but will that really cool you off? Sure shade helps but when it feels like you can cut the air with a knife the sun isn’t your only problem. I would suggest starting from the core and downing something frosty. With all of the freezing cold choices in Rome from gelato to tiramisu, I usually go for the most arctic.

Granita is a combination of ice, sugar, and a multitude of different flavorings, such as coffee or fresh summer fruits. This frozen dessert is traditionally from Sicily, so finding a good authentic cup of granita can be a challenge in Rome. You will see plenty of granita machines in gelaterias; big plastic containers churning red or yellow slush, these machines produce a granita that is far from the real thing and should be avoided.

When you ask around for a good granita most people would direct you straight to Giolitti’s. Located on Via Uffici del Vicario this historic gelateria has been operating and serving up Italians and foreigners alike for over one hundred years. Giolitti’s was recently visited by Barack Obama’s two daughters while the US president was attending the G8 summit in L’Aquila. The location is great, being smack in the middle of the historic center, near both Piazza Navona and the Pantheon. The shop is huge and offers a wide variety of flavors in both gelato and granita (€3 a cup) but unluckily I cannot award Giolitti’s with the best granita in Rome. I would suggest the mammoth gelato cones over the granita anyday, though it still is a million times better than the standard plastic blender.

If you really want to taste the true Sicilian granita then you have to head towards Piazza Venezia. Straight across the street from the flight of steps leading to Campidoglio there is a much lesser known gelateria. Gelateria Artigianale serves up cups of granita that would cool off the hottest Roman wanderer, it is located right next to Vittorio Emanuele II (#10 Piazza D’Ara Coeli) . Unlike Giolitti’s when you take a bite of Artigianale’s concoctions you can really taste the diced fruit. The € 3 price tag is very much worth it especially when the sun is constantly hanging over your shoulder.

Popular Rome Hotels near Piazza Venezia:

• Hotel Cosmopolita
• Hotel Hosianum Palace Roma
• Town House Suite Kame Hall

Cup of Sicialian Granita picture by Fantasmic

This article ignores almost all of them, however, and explains where you can find the best, or at least most authentic, Viennese food going.

1. Korso Bei Der Oper

According to reports from people who can afford to eat there, the Korso Bei Der Oper is one of the best restaurants in Vienna. This is comforting as it is certainly one of the most expensive as my short and unhappy visit demonstrated. The food is reported to be simple but refined and worth the price if you can afford it. The restaurant is part of the Hotel Bristol which lends it even more elegance and, as the name suggests, is very convenient for the Staatsoper. Reservations are essential.

2. Schweizerhaus

About as far in tone as you can imagine from the Korso Bei Der Oper is the Schweizerhaus.

Set in the middle of the Prater and with its own very large garden, Schweizerhaus provides good food at lowish prices to a lot of people. This is the place to come and relax with friends in summer, drink a few beers and wash them down with a Weiner Schnitzel. Off season visitors should be aware, however, the Schweizerhaus closes for the winter in October.

3. Figlmüller

If Weiner Schnitzel is what you’re after then you will not be dissatisfied with Figlmüller. This restaurant is well known for both the quality of their schnitzel and the size. Dinner plate filling slabs of meat have been reported and thoroughly enjoyed as well. As is the case with any good restaurant visitors and locals alike are can be seen at the informal tables. Figlmüller is to be found at Wollzeile 5 near Stephansplatz U-Bahn station.

4. Steirereck

Back at the more formal end of the market is the formidable Steirereck. Located in the Stadtpark the restaurant actually gives you the choice of two experiences, one slightly less formal than the other. As well as the Viennese traditional dishes on offer are some more unusual ones that change regularly. Steirereck is also very well known for its selection of cheeses. For the main restaurant reservations are vital, head to Stadtpark station on the U-Bahn.

5. Sacher

For decades many guides have suggested that Sacher, the restaurant from which the Sacher cake took its name, is the place to eat in Vienna. I have not had the pleasure of trying it yet, however, my Viennese friends assure me that these days the place relies more on hype and tourist money than real quality. This is something to bear in mind if it is recommended by your hotel or other tourist handlers.

Top rated Vienna hotels with a restaurant

• Hotel Bristol
• Hotel Sophienalpe
• Hotel Bergwirt

Photo of traditional Austrian food and beer at Schweizerhaus, Vienna, Austria by ViZZual.com

As waves upon waves of frantic tourists crash down around me I feel like I am sometimes drowning. Rome is a beautiful city with so much to see, but you will most definitely be accompanied by a mob of likeminded tourists around every corner.

I’ve currently been living in Rome for three months and every now and then I crave for a bit of escape. Escape in any form, in a small trip out of town, a good book, movie, or concert. Or best of all; some foreign food. I recently stumbled upon a tiny alley near Piazza Navona and there I found Il Clan. F rom the outside of this cosy Brazilian restaurant you will see that it is completely tattooed. Covering the walls around the outside dining area is praise and thanks written in twenty different languages. Il Clan is authentic Brazilian food, opened by two amazing sisters. If you aren’t in the mood for Brazilian they offer a variety of Italian dishes but if you want something unique then you have to order from the Brazilian approach; after all it is a Brazilian restaurant and that is their specialty.

Budget travellers rejoice! For only five Euros you can order a specialty plate, which includes white rice, black beans, and a delicious cooked spinach. Along with that are my favourites, a vinagrete made with red pepper flakes, tomatoes, and olive oil and a tapioca flour which are absolutely incredible when used as a garnish. Now this isn’t Italian cooking so that means we are not eating in courses and you have a mountain of food all on one plate. The sisters actually encourage you to mix it all together in the true Brazilian fashion. And it really mixes perfectly, sprinkle a little bit of the provided fixings over the top and you are good to go. If you are with a group there is a super sized version of this Brazilian dish for fifteen Euro, they will bring all of the pieces to the puzzle out separately and allow you to dish up yourselves with these awesomely big portions. It will usually feed three people depending on how greedy your friends are feeling. Il Clan has outdoor seating in summer and every table is candle lit. After dinner you have to try the house special dessert, a Brazilian spin on the Crème Caramel.

This will be the last article to push you over the edge of falling in love with these sisters and Il Clan altogether. Make sure to express your new found love on the outside walls of the restaurant, tuck it in between the Mandarin Chinese and Hebrew. Then take a food drunk jaunt over to Piazza Navona and join back into the throngs of fountain photographers. Il Clan is number 21/22 on Via Sora and is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily; I suggest dinner. Great atmosphere and very kind people.

Photo of Brazilian food by stu spivack

The landscape is dotted with thousands of stone structures, proving how steeped in history the country is. Whether you visit the capital city of Cagliari, explore the Spanish-gothic town of Alghero (founded in medieval times), or you schmooze with the wealthier tourists up in Costa Smerelda. The beaches are some of the most pristine you will find anywhere in Europe and the towns are nothing short of picturesque.

From a traveling standpoint, Sardinia is one of the true ideal destinations that takes you away from it all and has a little something for even the pickiest of tastes. The numerous attractions, entertainment, events, and shopping leave nothing to be desired. And then there is the cuisine, which is a favorite of international travelers everywhere, even those that insist on a vegetarian menu. Unfortunately, there are only a few vegetarian places on the entire island (three to be exact) and they are all in different cities, namely Alghero, Cagliari, and Olbia.

1. Ko De Kap

Located at Via Asfodelo 35 near at Via Garibaldi, and in front of the Piazza Della Pace. The venue here is strictly take-out and it is not 100% vegetarian so you need to be aware of that when perusing the menu. It is an organic restaurant and the menu is international, so not all of the cuisine is Sardinian. Suffice it to say, there are still plenty of vegetarian choices. Additionally, they do offer delivery no matter where you are staying in the city. The beer and wine list is fairly impressive as well.

2. T Restaurant

This is the highest quality restaurant in Cagliari and features a smaller vegetarian menu which is not near as extensive as the regular one. Additionally, all of the produce used is grown fresh on the island and despite the fact that any fish entrée is not vegetarian faire, it is brought in freshly caught from the Mediterranean the day it is to be cooked and served. All of the vegetarian dishes are prepared with a certain Mediterranean flair and the compliment to that savory meal is anyone of the many delectable wines that they offer.

3. Desole Farm House

Located at Su Canale – Monti. The farmhouse is actually situated deep within the lush Galluran countryside and has only been operating since 2003. However, don’t let that stop you, this is the finest Bed and Breakfast that you will find on the island, but with a twist. There is also the restaurant that is attached to the premises. The menu does vary somewhat based on the season, but it features the standard and the vegetarian entrees year round.

Photo of vegetarian antipasto in Oristano, Sardinia, by L I S S I

Additionally, some of these drinks aren’t at all hard to make and sample, however strange they may seem.

Lemonade – Britain

Victorian recipe books record numerous (and often strange) ways of making the perfect lemonade, which was usually consumed in the garden accompanied by a reserved game of bridge – some recipes even involve leaving overnight and straining through muslin (in layman’s terms, the thin material often used to make curtains and wedding dresses alike). A general consensus reached by most is to include some of the bitter rind into the recipe somewhere along the line for taste.

Polish Rhubarb Honey – Poland

As you might have guessed from the title, this popular Polish summer drink is extremely refreshing with the sourness of the rhubarb contrasting with the sweetness of the honey all poured over ice. It tastes a little bit like cranberry juice and is probably a little bit healthier than the Lemonade because of the addition of honey.

Limoncello – Italy

Before the seasoned Starbucks fan inquires, the Frappuccino is merely a product of the vivid imaginations of corporate fat cats who wanted to find a way to keep coffee sales high in the summer and is no more Italian than the Yeti. But Limoncello, thankfully, is. It’s simply an Italian lemon liqueur made from sugar, lemons, water and pure alcohol and is frequently drunk cold after meal times to aid digestion.

Strawberry Bowle – Germany

It’s called “Bowle” because it’s served from a large glass bowl in the manner of Punch. Made with Brandy, Champagne, Dry White Wine, and Strawberries, it’s said to be quite a good mix. It should be served in a wide, flat glass with a bit of fruit in the manner of a martini. It’s deceptively light while actually very alcoholic.

La Terre Rouge– France

A simple Red French table wine, ideal for picnics and for just about anything, comes from a blend merlot, grenache, and carignan grapes from different regions of Southern France to at varying altitudes and temperatures to really give the wine some substance.

Sangria – Spain

Sangria is a wine punch consumed all over Spain during the sweltering summers. There are many different variants and recipes of the famous drink, but most include red wine, lemonade, and fruit. Many modern varieties contain shots of Bacardi or Vodka, or vast amounts of ice and 7-up to weaken it accordingly, which may be wise if some of the drinkers are a little youthful and inexperienced. It’s so popular in Spain that it can even be bought bottled, but that detracts from the fun of making it yourself and serving it with the authentic bits of fruit floating around in it.

Photo of refreshing drinks by Mickael Dietch

but I can say without hesitation there is one café in Florence, which surpasses all others when it comes to brewing a frothy and creamy cup of perfection.

Owned by famed designer Roberto Cavalli, the Caffè Giacosa is nestled in a cozy side street – 10R Villa Della Spada – just off of the city’s designer shopping strip, via Tornabuoni. Situated right next to the Cavalli store, the café seems quaint from the outside yet impossibly chic and decadent upon entering thanks to the trademark Cavalli leopard and zebra print décor captured in the plush seating as well as the tapestries and picture frames adorning the wall.

Many of the locals sing the praises of the cafés warm beverages as well as their pastries and lunch specials which is a sure sign that tourists are going to be impressed. Should you choose to sit, there is a lovely albeit small patio outside where you can enjoy the fresh air and the passersby. Of course, as with most bars and cafés in Italy, there is an added charge for seating which is why most patrons (particularly the locals) prefer to head indoors and stand at the bar. Upon entering there is a cashier seated near the door, be sure to pay here first and then present your receipt at the bar. The barista will expertly whip up your cappuccino into a dainty white porcelain cup and right away you’ll notice how delightfully thick and frothy it is on top. But it doesn’t it doesn’t stop there. The finishing touch is to adorn the froth with a swirl of rich dark chocolate syrup in the shape of a “C” (for Cavailli of course). As if being in Italy isn’t already enough, the first taste will feel like a sip of heaven. A touch more creamy than the typical Italian cappuccino, this smooth and milky creation is always served at just the right temperature to please the palate. It’s the perfect perk before a long day of sightseeing or shopping in the city.

Tip: Italians only drink cappuccinos first thing in the morning, but if you wanted to enjoy a cup at the end of the day, no one would blame you!

A winter escape

During the winter months you can order another specialty, cioccolata calda, which is the Italian version of hot chocolate. Truly indulgent, the Italian method calls for premium melted chocolate to create a bitter-sweet and very thick consistency which will warm your body right down to your bones in no time guaranteed. At Giacosa of course, the finishing touches are as important as the drinks themselves – if desired, the barista will rub a fresh orange rind around the rim of your cup to balance your decadent drink with tart citrus flavour and aroma, or you can choose to add a dollop of fresh whipped cream on top.

Lunch time

Stop in during lunch and you can enjoy warm risotto, pasta, fresh salads and more. The prices may be a bit more premium then the neighboring lunch stops, but the servings are generous and the ambience is hard to beat. There is limited seating so better to arrive before the lunch hour rush at noon if you want to get a table. Before you leave the dining nook, head towards the back of the café to the bakery counter where you can pick up some sweet pastries and desserts to take home. On the way, you’ll also note some racks with beautifully wrapped chocolates, confectionaries and a few home accessories on display which you can purchase as a gift.

After dark

From the month of April until the end of the summer, Giacosa revs up it’s personality to transform into a nightclub after dark. Nothing less than silk Cavalli bed sheets are draped over the coffee machines and out come the cocktails, dimmed lighting and live DJ (some nights it’s Cavalli’s own son) who perches himself at the cashier counter turned DJ booth and gets the crowd moving with tunes from his laptop. If you want to order like a local, ask the bartender for a Negroni (gin, vermouth and Campari) – some say Giacosa is where this Italian favorite originated. The crowd is always stylish with ages ranging from 20s to 40s, a mix of American students and Florentines who have been waiting out the season to dance the night away in the trendiest café turned club in town.

Therefore to really sample that which is truly Liverpool, you need to focus on the locally-owned eateries rather than the fast food spots and the national chains. This is especially true if your preference is vegetarian. It may seem a uphill task to find a decent restaurant that serves vegetarian delights but listed below are some of the top recommended vegetarian eateries in all of Liverpool.

1. Green Fish Café

Ovo, lacto, and Vegan-friendly restaurant

Breakfast is served until noon. After that the full menu is available. This is one of the busier vegetarian eateries in the city, so be prepared for a wait whenever you decide to come sample the varied menu. The menu includes items baked potatoes, curry, humous, roasted vegetables, salads, soya chili, and much more.

2. Next to Nowhere

English Vegan cuisine

Volunteers from the Merseyside region operate this radical social establishment featuring a kitchen space for providing an all Vegan veggie cuisine. It is also considered a non-profit establishment as well. One thing you will immediately notice is the abundance of political materials on animal rights.

3. Soupernatural

Fast-food, salad bar, and take-out venue that is ovo, lacto, and Vegan-friendly.

This is primarily a breakfast and lunch vegetarian eatery featuring salads, sandwiches and usually 4-5 different soups on the menu. Soya milk is the beverage of choice and despite the take-out venue, there are a few tables inside where you can enjoy your meal if you choose.

4. The Egg Café

Ovo, lacto, Vegan-friendly restaurant

This restaurant usually offers a couple of different soups each day and offers you a casual relaxed setting to enjoy a meal in. There are typically 3 daily specials, one of which is always Vegan, with a Sunday Vegan roast afternoon special.

5. Green Days Café

Ovo, lacto, and Vegan-friendly, but not 100% vegetarian food

The food served is additive and preservative-free and targets the pescatarian tastes as well as the vegetarian. Three fish dishes are featured on the menu with nearly 30 vegetarian dishes so you are bound to find something to satiate your palette.

Photo by D. [SansPretentionAucun e] (•̪●) ✪

Most people are very familiar with Prague – its castle and the old town square, the winding city streets, and its Bohemian flavor, but Brno is oftentimes overlooked as a viable destination for travelers. Brno is the Czech Republic’s second largest city, and due to the fact that it is overlooked, it could be referred to as a red-headed stepchild.

Home to a wide array of interesting attractions and events, Brno is about the same size as Portland, Oregon. The city offers a wide array of seasonal events such as:

• Summer – the Cabbage Market featuring fresh fruit and vegetables.

• Fall – the Young Wine Festival

• Winter – the Christmas Bazaar featuring a variety of present booths

• Spring – Easter Monday and the traditional kissing under the cherry blossoms

Though it appears non-existent, there is no lack for fine dining, nightlife, and pubs in Brno. Unfortunately, a lot of these have been omitted from most of the major tourist and travel guides. The majority of Czech cuisine focuses on three main staples – cheese, potatoes, and pork. Starobrno is the most preferred regular beer while Pivo Cerny is the dark beer of choice. Despite the fact that dining is a very important part of the Brno lifestyle, the bars, clubs, and pubs far outnumber restaurants.

The following is a list of the top 5 pubs and restaurants for you to enjoy while you are visiting this overlooked Czechoslovakian gem of a tourist destination:

1. Konselsky Senk

It is excellent for either family dining or a romantic dinner. This pub and restaurant combination offers an international menu featuring a strong focus on Italian and vegetarian cuisine. You have your choice of cold or hot dishes for lunch and dinner. The entertainment venue features piped in music and TV.

2. La Botte

Specialties include a wide array of international cuisine with seafood being their primary bill of faire. They serve beer, hard liquor, and wine, and offer both lunch and dinner menus and piped in music plays continually regardless of the menu available.

3. Hospoda Stodola

Hospoda Stodola features Pilsner Urquell, one of the finest beers in the Czech Republic. This is a rather simple pub with a brick bar, but the atmosphere makes it well worth venturing into.

4. Sherlock Holmes Pub

This is an English pub, but it features beers from Belgium and Holland as well as the Brit favorites. The décor is art-nouveau and it is located in the heart of the city at the town center.

5. Restaurace U Jošta

One of the more popular pubs in Brno featuring its own beer garden. It is located in the center of town and has a restaurant on the main floor while the pub is in the cellar.

“Fork & Knife” picture by Shock2006