Singapore 

Perfect for a date night, pre-drinks before going out-out, catching up with friends and discovering new DJs, old heads and undiscovered tunes. It’s a sociable hub for music lovers, creatives and friendly faces. It’s not open late so I’d recommend not after 8pm if you want a good shift. They serve Pan-Asian fusion food and cocktails, the menu is mouthwatering! Ask for Dean Chew, one of the co-founders of the label Darker Than Wax runs this place. He’s a sweet, sweet soul.

Perfect for a casual catch up with your friends. The crowd is a lot of East-siders – so some really laid-back people. The sunset is beautiful around the East Coast, it feels really nostalgic, so I’d say [pull up] at 7pm just before the evening sets in. They serve beers and spirits, as well as some hard-hitting Thai food. The spot is run by a really chill older couple, I used to work here actually!

The vibe is perfect for if you’re craving some authentic Chinese seafood whilst having a catch up with some friends and family. This is the place you need to hit up. Almost exclusively local Singaporean folk and longtime Singapore residents. It’s definitely a hidden gem. The stingray, fried rice and sambal kangkong are my go-to dishes. If you haven’t tried stingray, it has a soft meat texture that essentially melts in your mouth.

It’s affordable dim sum, so the vibe is perfect for any occasion! You have hundreds of options and insanely quick service. The place is almost always local Singaporeans – another hidden gem. You should order lime juice with sour plum, xiao long bao (Shanghai soup dumplings), siu mai, fried prawn dumplings, wanton, crab meat sauce with mantou. Basically anything, to be honest. I could order everything twice over.

It’s the perfect place to end your night out. I’d always end up here after the club with a group of friends. I'd say the crowd is a mix between people who want to watch football and drunk club-goers. Order the roti prata with fish, chicken, lamb curry or dhal if you’re vegan or vegetarian.

You can get to the island by hopping on a ferry for under 20 Singapore dollars (SGD) from Marina South Pier. I’d recommend the 10am ferry so you get a full day out. Definitely bring your own food and water to St John’s Island because they don’t sell any!

It’s super affordable to get to Pulau Ubin – it costs under five SGD for a single trip. You can get a bumboat at Changi Point Ferry Terminal which usually takes around 15 minutes. You can also bring your own bicycle here or rent one when you’re there. It’s also a good shout to bring your own water and snacks even though you can find food there. My favourite thing to do is kayaking along the mangroves – surreal.

Jhumka on Where to Go in Singapore

Sueuga Kamau

Oakland

Sueuga Kamau's Guide to Oakland

Lagos

The Ofada on their menu and Jollof rice.

So the house is a nice chill spot in VI (Victoria Island). They’ve got really good Nigerian dishes like the ofada I mentioned which is local rice and also continental dishes. They open till late daily so you can really have a good time there.


King fisher is a seafood restaurant in Lekki, it’s got some scenic views and they open late as well.

It’s a lounge in VI, I go there because they’ve got really nice cocktails at decent prices and good music too.

Foodies is in lekki, they’ve got all sorts of Nigerian dishes and they’re affordable.

The burg is a joint in Ikeja and as you can tell by the name they’ve got great burgers. You don’t have to break the bank to eat there and their milkshakes are top notch.

Yellow Chilli are on mainland and island. They have really good African dishes with a homely vibe.

They are barbecue joint in VI with great grills and they are affordable too.

So olaiya is a hub for all sorts of Nigerian dishes, I tend to order take out from there most time.

Eating out in Lagos with BOJ

St Lucia 

The food takes us back to our childhood: Mandella being born and bred here, and Rochelle's family being St. Lucian. This is authentic St. Lucian cuisine.

Seafood right along the seafront, what more could you want? The flavours are unreal!

Fresh produce and amazing views. There is different produce in season at different stages of the year, but the quality never changes. Perfect for a lunch or dinner treat.

Great place to stop for local cuisine when in the area of Vieux Fort, where the food is prepared by a Vieux Fort local chef, Chevorn.

Located directly in front of the port where the fishermen bring in their catch of the day, in the fishing port canteen – so you know the food is tasty! Nothing fancy, just pure flavour!

Mr Pete has been serving the best cocoa tea, roast bakes, fried makes and more in Vieux Fort for many years. This is the best spot to get an early morning bite to eat as he is gone by around midday and he sells out!

Located along sandy beach – one of the very few Atlantic Ocean beaches in St. Lucia – and open to all, you will find a lot of locals also dining here. Great cocktails and rum options also. Perfect for something to eat after a swim.

Brilliant steak and local food with a great atmosphere and live entertainment. As it's along the Rodney Bay strip, you can continue your night after you have had your food.

The Best Local Food Spots in St. Lucia With Bon Mangé

Shanghai

Exquisite Fujian cuisine. The overall quality is very high, with some western food concepts incorporated into the tradition, but the balance is just right. The restaurant has a great view and good service. It’s no surprise that it’s on the Black Pearl and Michelin lists – not easy to make a reservation.

I have been eating sheng-jian (local style pan-fried dumplings) since I was a kid, and the taste of this restaurant has not changed much. [It's an] authentic, original flavour. It is the local snack in Shanghai that I most often recommend to my friends. Shanghai Intangible Cultural Heritage Protection Project.

Large in quantity and cheap, a must-eat for those who love spicy food.

Tibetan style coffee. The shop staff are all from Tibet, and the store also sells Tibetan handmade products.

Suitable for gatherings of friends as they have limited space. If you can’t get enough of the raw drunken crab, grilled spring chicken and braised prawns, you can order a bowl of re gan noodles.

The presentation is lovely and the cocktails are a must-order. They collaborate with different celebrity chefs frequently, a very unique experience.

I'm glad this one has stayed open for so many years, since there are two restaurants I wanted to write about that closed after the pandemic. Their pasta and desserts always make me happy.

33EMYBW on Her Favourite Restaurants in Shanghai

Rose Bonica

Cape Town

Our local vinyl store, run by a group of really amazing people. They describe it as a “community record store for colourful music”. Check out their online store and The Other Radio that brings you shows hosted by a whole selection of South African artists and DJs.

There's no way you can visit Cape Town without driving along Chapmans Peak and getting a photo at the Lookout Point. For people who live here, Chappies is still one of the go to spots on a Sunday drive. I mean how can it not be with a view like this.

Definitely one of my most nostalgic spots, having gone to Llandudno Primary. The sunsets from here are insane! If I’m honest, it's also one of the only beaches I'd go to if I liked to go to the beach.

If you want the best fish and chips in Cape Town. If you disagree, you can always feed the fish to the seagulls.

One of the few clubs that we have in Cape Town. Champagne and NTSC are my favourite nights. Some of their other nights are great too, if you're looking for a bit more of a Berlin techno vibe.

I recently went to the Aquarium to film a live stream and it's definitely my new favourite spot in Cape Town. The best part is that most of the sea life are rescues getting rehabilitated to get put back into the ocean.

The perfect little village to escape to when the city becomes too much. The beach is beyond and there's a beautiful Lake at the end of the beach to float around in when the waves get too much.

Party in an Aquarium? Welcome to Cape Town

Gundelach

Oslo

If you have a little extra to spend, go here. Legendary restaurant with 10-course menu and only 23 seats. This is a place with soul, fantastic food and far too much good wine. Don’t plan anything important to do the next day because you are going to get terribly drunk.

Ask for: Gunnar

Pro tip: After you’ve eaten you can just stumble into the club Skaugum which is in the same weird old building. If you can manage it…

Oslo is a coffee-city and this is the boss. Order an “Anistetta” which is an espresso based iced coffee with aniseed-infused syrup. Addictive!

Ask for my good friend Erlend who runs this sausage-kiosk that he inherited from his father. Just wiener-sausages with homemade toppings. The perfect lunch.

Pro tip: Go to the forest to pick mushrooms in autumn and then visit Syverkiosken afterwards to get your mushrooms inspected. Erlend is a certified mushroom expert!

New bürek spot at the top of Grunnerløkka. Try the traditional spinach and feta one, tasty as hell.

Expensive but delicious! Einer strives for organic and bio-dynamic agriculture and wines. In the basement you can find the bar “Einbar”.

A cosy little café run by a lovely married couple ☺ They make good salads and sandwiches and you can also get a bottle of peroni. They love dogs so feel free to take yours with you or just pet the ones that are there.

Order: Italian vegetarian & tallegio sandwich.

A Turkish family-run restaurant which is located in the “Sagene samfunnshus” (community centre). A lovely place to sit outside in the summer. The best squash cakes in the city.

Order: Squash cakes and bulgur or halloumi burger.

A low key fish restaurant which is located in Mathallen (the food hall). Nice spots to eat outside, delicious oysters and fish and chips with a really good pea stew.

Ask for: my old friend Dre, and then you will get a refill ;)

Eight Places You Need To Visit in Oslo with Gundelach

Hugo Mendoza 

New York City 

The Bronx Museum tends to go under people's radar a lot of the time but this is one of my top 3 favorite museums in NY. Last year (2019) they had the best exhibition I've ever been to. Shout out Henry Chalfant.

This is an old photo but it captures the very essence of Fordham Road. From sneakers you haven't seen in years to $5 thermal packs to keep you warm through a NY winter, this joint has it all. If you make your way towards University Heights Bridge you can fuck with some Texas size Henny Coladas at Dallas BBQs.

This one here is a gem. I stumbled upon the Bartow mansion one time I was riding on my 10-speed headed to City Island, if I remember correctly. The garden is like no other and if you're into Greek revival interiors this joint is for you.

I keep this one close to my heart. Big Pun is in my top 5 for obvious reasons. Tats Cru is legendary Bronx shit. Not much to say about this one, they switch it every other year. Each year is hard. If you fuck with PUN go see it. 

Dominican owned. Bronx based. Great food. The menu changes daily, Thursday is my go-to. Chivo con arroz blanco y guandules de coco. Enough said.

Best Pizza in the Bronx. Don't @ me. Get the sausage slice. 

If you know me, you knew this one was coming. Get a little bit of each section. The menu is broken down into sections. Fried, Boiled and I think burgers and chicken. Don't touch those. Stick to the seafood. Go fuck with a Henny Colada or 2. The peoples at the bar have no actual bartending experience so they bless the Henny amounts.

Best Chopped Cheese in the Bronx in my opinion. Open 24hrs. I know if you are from NY and you're reading this I know youre like "Hugo got it fucked up, the best chopped cheese is..." That's cool. If ya'll ever decide to take a trip uptown, come see for yaself. 

Explore The Bronx with Hugo Mendoza

Alexander-Julian Gibbson

Really dope night spot. Has a lot of creatively themed parties, and has great DJs.

One of my favorite spots in Bushwick/Bedstuy. Really cool vibes, and has a dope backyard that hosts all kinds of event in the summer. Jazz Nights every Thursday too.

My favorite little dive bar spot that effectively hosts 3 very different vibes all at once. In the front there's a regular dive bar, playing rock music. Outside, a very chill and quaint outdoor are with cheap drinks, and the backroom turns to a complete and total rager after midnight. #DIVERSITY lol

Alexander-Julian Gibbson's Guide to Brooklyn

Paris

Ask for the round table next to the bar, a Negroni with Armagnac from the bartender Marc and mushroom ravioli

You will have a good laugh, tell them I sent you

Before coming call and ask if Alban is around, if yes, ask him to order for you

Probably the place I have eaten the most in Paris, best shrimp when it’s the season. Don’t dare leaving without trying the clamatarte

In Paris or anywhere in the world, follow their IG account to know when and where!

[Get the] steak with black pepper sauce - FYI sometimes I order and eat between emails

Where to Dine Out in Paris with Silencios' Guillaume Sanchez

Izzy Bossy

Jamaica

Winifred beach has to be my favourite beach its one of the last beaches which hasn’t been bought by foreigners a hub for the community to come and cool af, if you go you must go up to Cynthia’s and get some food just ask for her down on the beach!

Blue lagoon holds a special place in my heart one of my favourite place to swim its hot and cold under and has a magic in the air, if you go down make sure to get a raft trip ask for Beena with the bleached hair and go over to monkey island.

Obviously, I had to put some music-related tings. If you know me you know how much DANCEHALL IS MI EVERYTHING and the best way to keep up with the new music is to get a CD from Junior on William Street.

Boston is the home of jerk. You can’t come to Jamaica and not try it. There are a few amazing places, but you must go to its home, Boston. Go to Mickey's - the first place on the left (if you are facing it). I also always get a chicken sausage from Bumpy as well; you will see him, he is right across.

Corey makes the best fruit smoothies in Port Antonio. He also makes peanut punch with almond milk which is quite rare here, but it’s super yummy. He is based in the back of the fruit market just walk through the shop to the back left corner and you will see him.

This is by far my favourite date night spot. The owner, Vanessa, is one of my good friends and cooks the most delicious food. Get the lobster! Actually, get anything its all amazing !! Also located on Long Bay Beach - you HAVE to go!

Have you ever had a burger with plantain and callaloo? Well then, you must go to Woody's in Drapers. Their burgers are literally so unique tasting and delicious.

If you are going to Rio Grande make sure you head out early as its a full day of rafting. I always drive up and start from Berrydale. You can stop the raft and swim in the river. Also, half way up if you call in advance, you can stop for food at Belinda. She is not there all the time, so you must organise in advance, but I promise you you won’t regret it!

Sanko Bay is a tiny local beach. There isn’t sand, but you can swim and the view is so beautiful. We are currently trying to re-build the community centre situated on this beach to support and give the Drapers community a hub for the locals. We’re also giving free workshops and equipment for our future generation to be able to bloom.

Everyone always talks about Dunn River, but there are so many hidden gems. Reach Falls is much quieter and you can walk down the back of the waterfall where there are holes you can jump through (this will make more sense when you reach). It’s way more chilled and private; take some snacks, drinks & lots of mosquito repellent with you in your bag.

IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR SOME VIBEZ YOU MUST GO TO MANNAS. You can also pre-order food for small and big groups. Hit up Jason. This is also a must-go!

Coconut shrimp curry to die for. Great for any celebration or just a lovely dinner. Make sore you ask the owner to tell you his story and why he set up soldier camp.

Explore Portland, Jamaica, with Izzy Bossy

Athens

Best place for grilled shrimps, they don't accept reservations tho!! Is part of my slow self care Sunday routine as it's in front of a Hammam!!

Super on budget fresh fish option! Third generation greek sea food tavern, try the fresh sea bass, mussels and handmade ntolmadakia. 

Recently added to Michelin Guide, lsandsia is a "new-age" taverna with their menu changing around the seasons and even more often with 100% bio and organic ingredients. Don't forget to check their in-house candle shop. 

The best pizza in Athens, bet! Pizzas are always served with fresh olive oil on top, be sure you try the Zucchini-Gorgonzola one, the burned tomato salad with Aperol's companion. Best staff ever!

Traditional ouzeri. First things first, you HAVE TO DRINK some ouzo or tsipouro. Their octopus is amazing, but until it's ready, snack some french fries with tzatziki. 

I imagine these burgers as SpongeBob SquarePants' patties.  They only make a type of burger but it's SO GOOD!

The 7 Best Restaurants in Athens with Evelina 

Cairo

The best restaurant at the moment for local dishes with craftsmanship. In less than a year, it has taken the lead from Kebdet El Prince with its big variety and rich, heavy flavour. Their high quality food is meant to make you cry. For the best strategy to try everything, you have to starve yourself in advance, but it's worth it! Go with a friend, start with molokhia, then jump to the nifa (softest sheep meat) or moza (lamb shank). Then you can share stuffed vine leaves with trotters, mombar (fried intestines stuffed with rice), some tarb and a dish of rice me’ammar (baked with heavy cream in the oven). To finish off, maybe add in a small stuffed pigeon, because why not!

I’ve tried so many Korean restaurants in different countries, but so far Cairo’s Gaya is the winner. Big portions and nice service, big up to Shenouda! I always have kimbap and tteokbokki (rice cake) as an appetiser before jumping to the jeyuk bokkeum (Korean spicy pork) or beef bulgogi with fried rice with pork. It’s one of the few places in Egypt that serve pork. You can also try the pork belly or the ribs, they’re great. Don’t fall for any offer to try another Korean restaurant in Cairo, it’s a waste of time and money.

For years, El Sharkawy – with its millions of branches – have dominated the brain and liver market in Cairo. But then came Awlad Ta2ta2 to up the game. The freshest fried brain and liver, a perfect mix of crunchiness and softness. Don’t forget to squeeze heaps of lemon on it. You can order by kilo or simply go for sandwiches – they bake their own baladi bread. Order it with tehina (or ’tahini’ in hipster jargon), pickled tomatoes and eggplants. They also have fish, but if you want great fish, Cairo isn’t the right city. But you can try their herring salad if you like smokey, salted fish.

Back to starvation mode, you need to be prepared. El Gomhoureya is best known for its stuffed pigeons; they’re soft so you can even eat the bones, and the rice is well spiced. Next, try their giant moza or 1 ⁄ 4 kilo (a bit more I guess) of nifa. Don’t finish all of the pigeon soup. Save half of it to dip the nifa or moza in it, to make it extra soft, greasy. I’m not a fan of kabab and kofta, but they have good sogu’ (sujuk). El Gomhoureya never fails to make me feel high on good food, I always leave with a smile on my face.

This is hardcore! The best fasakhani in Cairo; the place selling fesikh. Fesikh is one of the oldest food traditions in Egypt, it’s basically aged marinated mullet fish. If you like a strong funky smell and taste, Shaheen will be your heaven. Don’t let the innocent pink colour or the soft meat of the fish fool you, it’s overpowering but delicious. Buy the fish and cut the head and tail with a sharp knife. Then cut it from the bottom so you can split it in two parts and squeeze lots of lemon – and good luck! The high amount of salt will dry you out, so it’s recommended to drink lots of water and cola, of course, and take a day off because it will make you sleepy. Disclaimer: make sure the fesikh is fresh, otherwise it will have serious implications.

There’s a koshary place in every corner in downtown, but Abou Tarek stands out. Koshary is a bomb traditional dish made by a mix of three types of pasta, rice, lentil and fried onions. It’s always fresh, and what makes it unique is the tomato sauce, garlic sauce and other mix of spices. It’s relatively expensive compared to many koshary places. If you’re a vegetarian or vegan and visiting Cairo, Abou Tarek is your spot, next to tonnes of foul (fava beans) and ta’meyya (falafel) places you can find around every corner in Cairo.

They lied when they said pizza is Italian. With all respect to Italian pizza, especially the Neapolitan, every country in the Mediterranean has got its own version of pizza. Egypt is known for its fetir, a pie that’s similar to burek. Next to Dina Farms’ wide range of savoury fetir, the meshaltet pie is outstanding. The flakey layers loaded with butter go best with side dips of mesh (aged cheese), honey, cream, feta cheese and black honey (molasses). Don’t miss their milk with dates and milk with chocolate, they’re the richest.

Despite the abundance of shawerma spots in Cairo, it’s hard to find a good one, so you just go with the flow and settle for average places. EL Hamra Street is one of the few good ones, it’s prepared the Syrian/Lebanese way. Unfortunately, most of the places serving Egyptian shawerma are below average because they add too much tehina, parsley and mint and less meat. They’re also overpriced. So EL Hamra Street is the right choice. Don’t forget to try the sujuk shawerma, it’s really special.

I’ve been a big fan of Kahlawy for 20 years. Kahlawy is a small food cart located downtown, known for its delicious liver, sujuk and corned beef sandwiches. It’s always crowded so be patient. It’s also a good indicator of the rise in prices and the economic crisis in Egypt, as the price of their sandwiches has jumped from one EGP to 10 EGP over the years. However, this never stops me from grabbing a bunch of sandwiches every now and then.

Best known for their rice milk (top it with cream, honey and a scoop of ice cream), mahallabeya, ashoura and sweet koskosi (kouskous). It’s one of the oldest places selling nice desserts with high standards. They come up with new inventions every couple of months, so you must try their new mesakhsakha, which is a heavy version of tres leches. Try also their cheese and dairy products, especially their mesh.

A Guide on Where to Eat in Cairo By Abadir

Nightmares on Wax

Ibiza

Most people when they come to Spain, they want Paella. Well, this is the best paella on the island. One of the main reasons why is because a lot of the people make their paella and use rabbit as their stock, I don’t know how comfortable people are with that.... I’m not a fan personally. But they use chicken stock which makes it next level. They do a mixed seafood paella, but the lobster paella is the one and it’s not crazy expensive. It’s in the North of the island and isn’t crazy beach prices.

Been around for around 16 years now and it’s an organic Italian restaurant in San Lorenzo. You need to get the parmegiana (which is always slightly burnt on the outside and is incredible). The steak is literally the best steak on the island and that’s a big quote, I know. The setting and the ambiance there, it’s always on point. I’ve never eaten a meal there and been disappointed.

All the produce is organic, the ambience, you’re in a citrus garden and it’s just beautiful. You have to book as well, you can’t just roll up! Their cafe is good during the day, they do focaccia with goat's cheese if you’re not lucky enough to get there in the evening.

It’s well known for its Asado, or Argentinian BBQ, the meat and everything is great but the biggest surprise is their tomato salad. It’s a meat spot but it’s really all about the tomato salad which is a bit mind boggling. I’m trying to find out how they’ve done it because it’s just tomatoes and onions! It’s like, how can you make tomatoes and onions taste so incredible? Beautiful setting, really nice garden.

This is in a really nice village, the best village on the island, I believe. It’s like a fairy tale. There’s a plant-based restaurant there called Wild Beets owned by a guy called Cliff. All their juices and smoothies are amazing. One of my favourites is the juiced smoothie made up of cashews, dates, banana and açai. That one is amazing. But their protein bowls are just amazing, all their bowls are, including their buddha bowls.


Santa Gertrudis, I’d say just go for the experience and just to be there. They have one of the oldest bocadillo restaurants on the island, they make their own bread and sandwiches. You do have to queue because everyone tries to go there. If you don’t want to go for a full meal, that’s the place to go.

This restaurant is on Cala d'Hort beach, and it’s the only beach you can see Es Vedrá totally clearly from. It has amazing seafood, all of their selection is really great. Es Vedrá is a small island off of Ibiza, it’s not inhabited but there’s a lot of mysticism around it. They says it’s the third most magnetic place on the planet, so the energy down there is really nice and it’s a beautiful beach to go down to and a very different side to Ibiza to experience.

This is a brand new place and is in San Miguel. It’s like a café/deli. It’s more a Mediterranean-Asian fusion but they also serve Italian. All amazing food, amazing desserts. They also have a menu where you can order things 24 hours in advance, like flambéd sushi rolls. San Miguel is a little bit old school, there isn’t as much going on.


But this place has appeared, there’s a new pizza place that has appeared and is going through a bit of a shift at the moment. This place isn’t on a main street, they don’t have a sign up! I ended up driving up and down the street just to try and find it. The food is amazing for a new spot, so I want to support them and I want them to do well.

Nightmares on Wax’s Guide to the Best Food in Ibiza

Maya Kerthyasa

Bali

One of the best Balinese meals I’ve had recently was at Dapur Bali Mula in Les on the island’s north coast. Basically, it’s a kitchen run by chef Jero Mangku Dalem Suci Gede Yudiawan, who also happens to be a pemangku, or priest, in the area. He cooks everything over wood-fire in a hand-built clay stove, using only traditional, local ingredients and techniques.



This could be mackerel, caught that morning, massaged with yellow spices and turmeric leaves and cooked in a tube of young bamboo, or smoked chicken with raw sambal and Javanese long pepper leaves for greens. You might end proceedings with daluman leaf jelly in a glass of coconut cream and lontar-palm sugar syrup, or work your way through Yudiawan’s impressive collection of house-made arak – palm wine (also made from the nectar of the lontar tree) flavoured with everything from moringa leaves to fresh mango and fermented in 8th century Chinese clay pots. Either way, you’ll leave inspired.

Mek Juwel is another absolute go-to in my books. It’s a warung, which is best described as a small local eatery that’s usually family-run and specialises in a specific regional dish. Mek Juwel serves nasi or rice, with ayam or chicken, braised in a secret formula of spices and aromatics until it’s fork tender and simultaneously bright and earthy on the palate. It’s displayed behind a glass counter alongside a spread of equally-as-delicious condiments – torch ginger flower sambal and stir-fried noodles, among them. Head there in the morning when the birds are still warm.



Over the past few decades, meat has become the star of the Balinese diet – but this hasn’t always been so. As recently as 35 years ago, our cuisine was mostly made-up of native plants. We’d cook whatever nature provided – whether that’s fern tips, mango leaves, young papaya, banana-tree trunks or young bamboo shoots. Proteins from larger animals (pigs, ducks) were reserved for ceremonies or special occasions, and smaller animals (dragonflies, frogs, small eels known as belut) would be foraged in the rice fields and eaten on more of a daily basis.

Batukaru Coffee Retreat is up in the foothills of the island’s western mountains and a great place to explore home-style Balinese vegetarian food. Its proprietor, Kentri Norberg, prepares her menus based on the food she ate growing up: just-picked, minimally fussed-with, naturally medicinal. She only uses house-made coconut oil and palm sugar from the farm next door; her rice is sourced from heirloom fields below the property; her coffee is grown biodynamically on the adjoining plantation. Comfort eating in its most nourishing form.

The north-east coast on the other side of the island, is brimming with artisanal producers such as sea-salt makers, home arak distilleries and coconut groves that turn out everything from palm sugar to coconut milk and oil. Many of the best cooks source their ingredients directly from these small producers out east. When I head up there, I like to stop at Warung Lesehan Merta Sari for fish sate. They use tuna, which they mince, spice and grill over coconut charcoals, served with white rice, a bowl of glassy seafood soup and stir-fried kangkung or water spinach. You dine lesehan-style, cross-legged on elevated seating platforms in a sprawling, buzzing dining hall.

I’ve stopped eating pork for spiritual reasons, but have heard great things about the suckling pig at Babi Guling Pan Ana. The pork skin is the real draw here. It’s super-golden, crisp and glossy. Another big plus, is that this warung is located in Denpasar, which is a great place to explore all the different riffs on Indonesian cuisine. It’s often overlooked by travellers, but I strongly recommend it to anyone who loves food.

Fu Shou Noodle Club Ubud is full of culinary treasures and one of its most intriguing casual diners. The offerings are kept simple. There’s a few varieties of steaming bakmie noodle soups with free-range chicken, mushrooms or pork, classic Hainan chicken rice and pangsit dumplings deep-fried or boiled in chicken broth. It’s all made from scratch, in-house and with a noticeable dose of care.

Room4Dessert, on the opposite end of town, is my favourite special-occasion restaurant. You’ve probably heard of it if you’re a Chef’s Table binge-watcher or a proud owner of chef-owner Will Goldfarb’s dreamy cookbook (Room for Dessert, Phaidon, 2018). What I love about Goldfarb’s cooking and ethos is that he’s such a champion for real Balinese produce. He digs deep to source rare native foods from small-scale farmers, and works with them thoughtfully, allowing the produce to shine. There’s a blockbuster tasting menu 21-courses strong, and a new a la carte menu that’s super-accessible if you’d rather drop in for a tray of house-baked breads and condiments with a glass of natural wine.

The Best Local Spots to Eat in Bali with Maya Kerthyasa

Darkovibes

Accra

Twist night club is my go to location when it’s comes to night life in Accra. Growing up, I heard so many stories about the club which intrigued me to visit the club some day. It has an indoor studio where I record sometimes as well.

A beach house with a serene environment suitable for any kind of mood.


Go there order the ginger shot and Kokroko, your night will be made. They have some of the nicest calamari too.


I love Epos just because it runs 24 hours a day & any time of the day I can get food from them.

A beautiful rooftop view with live band performances.


Anytime I can’t go to Belleza Beach club due to the distance you’ll find me at Labadi beach riding a horse.


This club runs till morning. It’s definitely a vibe anytime me and my friends go there.


Explore Accra with Darkovibes 

Enrico Gambadoro

Ortigia

Bar Artale is one of the oldest bars on the island of Ortigia. A stone's throw from the Cathedral of Syracuse you can taste excellent granitas and a fine selection of traditional pastries. Definitely try the almond granita and cassatelle!

Marco Cappuccio grew up in the family fish market. Cappuccio, an institution in Ortigia’s market, as well as being an excellent musician, offers a selection of fresh, high-quality fish. The tuna hamburger is one of the cult dishes of this iconic street food spot in the island.

Chiodo was, in the past, a beautiful interior design workshop. Over the recent years it has been transformed into a bistro, open for both lunch and dinner. The restaurant recalls its background despite the change, thanks to refined interior and furnishings. Dishes to try include red prawn and mango tartare and the ceviche with catch of the day.

The spaghetti with urchins from the Pesce Azzurro Trattoria, over the years, has become one of the staple stops for the Ortigia Sound System audience. In this trattoria run by the landlord called 'Sergio known as the Turk' you can try some of the dishes of the seafood tradition, such as sarde alla beccafico and the red prawns.

Enoteca Solaria over the last few years has become an institution for natural wine, not only in Syracuse but throughout Sicily. The two owners have a great passion for organic wines. The beautiful wooden interior offers a selection of wine of the highest quality.

Malamore represents a unique rarity on the island of Ortigia. It is, in fact, a small record shop with lots of gems. Run by a team of DJs and entrepreneurs including Lucio Acquilina (half of Neapolitan group Nu Genea). In addition to records, you can drink an excellent selection of local beers, both draught or canned.

Divino Mare is located in the heart of the Ortigia market, and in recent years has established itself as a place for experimentation and research in the field of food and wine. At Divino Mare you can relax simply by ordering a bottle of wine and tasting some tapas. Must try: the fried fish and tuna belly skewers.

Boats is a cocktail bar located opposite the splendid ruins of the Temple of Apollo. Top quality and research make this venue one of the essential hedonistic stops of the Ortigia tour. For cocktails let yourself be guided by the skillful hands of the bartender, but we can always recommend the Pisco Sours.

As well as being one of the festival's most iconic venues, during the rest of the year the boat becomes a viable platform for events of various types and genres. Various activities organised during the season: parties, tastings, dinners and much more. In addition, the bar is always open from sunset onwards so you can have a beer or a cocktail by the sea.

A Guide to Ortigia Island by Festival Founder Enrico Gambadoro

Paurro

Mexico City 

My favourite coffee spot. They only use Mexican beans and they work directly, and sustainably, with their producers.

This record store has everything. A very good selection of 90s house. Everyone that works here really knows what they’re talking about.

I really love seafood. The format of this spot is like a Mexican cantina, but the food is Spanish-style seafood.

Really good food and mezcals; DJs play on the weekends. This is a good spot for pre-gaming in Coyoacán.

A weekend art market in San Angel where you can find Mexican artists selling their works. Perfect weekend activity.

University Museum of Contemporary Art. Always amazing exhibitions on here and it’s just awesome to walk around the campus – the buildings are insane. There’s also a botanical garden.

When I need to escape the city, I love to take my dogs here. It’s 45 minutes from the city and you can do a barbecue, go hiking, walking and fish.

For a good cocktail and record selectors. This is a nice date spot.

A Guide to CDMX, Mexico City, Mapped Out by Paurro

Ghetto Gastro

Highbridge is a neighbourhood in the Bronx that's connected to Washington Heights in the Upper Manhattan by way of the pedestrian high bridge. The blending of cultures across this physical landscape is rich and the patties have a nice sweetness and a spicy punch. They also take some time, because you'll need to ferment the plantains for the filling for up to one week, which adds a tangy depth to the flavour.

For $4 or $5, any short-order bodega cook can style it how you like it, but the classic build is ground beef cooked down with white onions and American cheese, then topped with tomatoes and shredded lettuce on a hero or roll. Like a lot of foods that emerge from neighbourhoods and cultures where many are systematically deprived of wealth, the chopped cheese is a blue-collar dish, [with] it's social complexities. As the class makeup of the Bronx and Uptown has shifted to attract the richer, whiter populations in recent years, the chopped cheese found its way into the hands of folks who didn't grow up on it like we did but rather often "discovered" the sandwich, and, naturally, loved it. 

This place opened as Brother Roy's Green Garden in 1983 at a different location (it's always going to be Brother Roy's to us), but the juice bar is a beloved, Black-owned gathering place that promotes health and wellness. For youth used to seeing smoke shops and liquor stores on countless corners, this West Indian spot is where you find like-minded people knowledgeable about nutrition. Brother Roy's is across from an elevated train, facing the New York Housing Authority's Gun Hill Houses. The energy is chaotic on the streets. In the shop it's like an oasis. You smell fresh fruit. You hear patois that reflects Caribbean roots. 

The hood Chinese restaurant is ubiquitous in Black hip hop culture. For decades, references to dishes have appeared in song lyrics; there's even a brown and green Timberland boot that's been dubbed "beef and broccoli". The tan joints are called "sesame chickens". These are not the spots where you look for traditional Cantonese dumplings or classic Sichuan noodles. You're gonna find chicken wings next to egg foo Yung. Chinese sweet tea served in plastic quart containers. Everything comes in a to-go box because even if the spot is large enough for tables and chairs, you're probably not staying long. 

A popular seafood restaurant in City Island, across the street from Johnny's Reef, these restaurants have a serious cult following. 

Ghetto Gastro’s Top 5 Restaurants in New York City 

London

Independent coffee shops are where you should be spending your time and your money. The eponymous cafe is a place of eclectic trinkets, amazing coffee and a hub for the east London cool cats who actually have something to say and contribute.

Waste is a radically independent punk/lifestyle store collaborating with artists and most importantly upcycling garments. The store itself is a visceral mosaic of subculture references, amazing finds and, as Sheerah mentions, a manifestation of what lives in her head rent free.

Aurum recently opened in Netil Markets community and is a women-owned and run shop providing people with pure gold piercing. The shop itself is stunning and Karly is such a dream. Aurum buys your gold, resells pure gold and its beautiful aesthetic of vintage gold is stun.

Across of Aurum is one of the market's most well-curated designer vintage shops. An industrial display of fashion house finds and rave culture mixed with some of the most important artefacts from culture is second to none. Also hang out for a bit to get to know the owner; she lives and loves her items as much as we love culture.

When in doubt, always stop for oysters. Fin & Flounder is a family-run fishmonger and they are so sweet to keep our oyster addiction at bay. Get it... oyster bay?!

Okko is a Broadway Markets iconic sushi and Japanese restaurant whose chile margaritas are like that spicy nice taste of summer. If you are there for a short while grab some tacos, but if you have some time try the incredible rolls and fusion treats.

Sheerah has been meaning to stop by here for ages and it’s a treasure trove of belts, buckles and S&M NRG. We raided the place and got ourselves bespoke belts made on the spot and fell in love with the owners and staff.

This new hot spot on Well Street in E9 was recommended by our mate Shimmy. Irish and Punjabi is a combo I never thought I’d hear, but it’s a taste you’ll forever crave. They had Irish oyster remixed Panjabi MC-style and the cauliflower cheese paratha was heaven in a mouthful. You must try it!

Exploring East London’s Independent Spots With Ryan Lanji and Sheerah Ravindren

One of my favourite wine bars in Athens. Stergios is one of the owners, a warm-hearted person with a great knowledge of wine. I totally recommend trying Roditis Orange, Ktima Sklavou-Tsaousi and Ktima Patistis Bio.


There are not a lot of spots in Exarchia where you can buy good quality bread. However BLACK SALAMI is quite a new entry and makes amazing bread as well as good espresso to take away. Try the focaccia and the avocado toast. Definitely pay a visit and grab your breakfast if you stay around.


This is very old pastry shop just around the corner of my store transfers you to an old Athenian scenery. Wooden decoration, assistants with uniforms, long glass windows, smell of biscuits. If you pass by, try their fresh chocolate cream, the traditional rice cream and the squared tiny praline bytes! To die for!!


Two brothers own this cafe. The younger one, Makis, can make you amazing espresso and let you know more tips about Athens. In case you need a sugar boost , try their apple pie!! Last but not least , there you can find a well curated selection of international magazines.


This place is as old school as my dad's Chevignon puffer  jacket. There is no music, but there you can find the most original drinks in town. The space is cosy and small, filled with beautiful people who usually go for an 'afterwork' drink.


Located opposite my store, this bar looks dark from outside but it will brighten up your taste with the best GIn & Tonic in Athens.

Traditional taverna in Exarchia, cult and cute, try the bacalao fish as well as their piaz beans.

Best pizza in the area. I am always happy to eat the one with Zucchine & gorgonzola.

8 Food and Drink Spots You Need to Try in Athens 

Marseille

Chez Gilda is a laid-back fry-up spot for dinner. Come here for roadside prawns in pastis, octopus and mangetout, the Mediterranean whitebait. They also do a good panisse (chickpea flour fries) – just make sure you take loads of harissa and cumin on the side as you gotta self season. Once you're done here, go to Pasarelle over the road for a bottle of affordable natural wines. The owner is iconically the double of David Bowie.

Explore

All 95 Results

Filtered Results