RONI

Paris

This is the second address in Paris after Lolo Cave à manger, down my house. Beautiful set up, amaaaazing food and quality natural wine. I’m in love with that place, I feel everything is perfect I just love it! Lolo will make you cosy. 

Fancy a cool outdoor place outside of Paris with good food and natural wine? Head to Kiosque Contours in Clichy. Former Machine du Moulin Rouge artistic director Marc Resplandy brought that cool place to life, with chef residencies, and good music!

If you fancy good food, natural wine and a nice listening session, head to Bambino. They have a beautiful and really good sound-system and fantastic music library.

For the natural wine lovers like me, this is a great wine shop located between 2 of the best restaurants in Paris Le Dauphin & La Chateaubriand.

This is a treat you have to give yourself. The chef Daniel Morgan is absolutely incredible. If you’re looking for incrediiiiiibly good food you won’t regret it. It’s a menu but really worth it and great natural wine. Book in advance it’s always full!

That is another cool natural wine address located. Ask for Alex, he’ll take care of you!

I’ll start my journey in Paris with music. That’s really important in a trip, it gives the tone of the city I feel. Dizonord is a cool record store that has a lot of rare records. They have an address in Paris and Marseille too.

I kind of was born there as a DJ, so this is a very important place in Paris where all the French underground scene of France gathers. It’s also a community and a family place :) 


That’s another one I often like to dig, I know Blaise who's been running the shop for a year and he also has good stories about the records to share. They are specialized into electronic music and more specifically Detroit influenced, but also get the cool new releases.


When it comes to clubbing I often go there, they have a very accurate and interesting programming and I did my first gig in a big club there actually :)

We all love to do some shopping, especially in Paris. I love to dress up and style myself but with Climate change I try more and more to buy sustainable clothing and Snow Bunny is the place for cool vintage. Victoria the owner is the queen of fashion and knows her thing. Every creative mind of Paris kind of dress up there. There’s always an unexpected piece you’ll fall in love with.


That’s a bit of my HQ, they opened a year ago and it feels like an Oasis of calm in the craziness of Paris. I do my sport, sauna, brainstorms and meetings over there. Perfect place to treat yourself.

12 Spots in Paris You Need to Visit, Chosen By RONI

Marseille

A Moroccan owned wine bar - my number 1 spot for a drink!

Very cute wine bar if you're staying in Le Panier.

Cocktail bar next door to the chapitre, which is just as good with a Scarface-esque interior and huge terrace – works for both sides of your budget. Once you can't afford to keep going on the cocktails, go next door for a pastis and and a demi.

A sexy little wine cave near Longchamp with max cooking and other guest chefs. Nicolai and Max have also taken over a space called La Traverse near Malmosque in an art residency house. Keep an eye out for it this summer to head there on the weekends.

Fred's newly-opened cave just down the road from his first baby, Winesucker –a neighbourhood casual wine spot – Justine Pruvot is cooking there right now and her hyper-natural approach to cooking is sure to be a hit for the summer heatwave.

Small plates and wine, go up to the bonne mere for sunset and head here on the way back down!

Where to Go for a Drink in Marseille, by Chef Megan

Chuck George 

Milan

A cozy corner spot with a great selection of natural wines by its proprietor, Emanuele. The space is intimate enough to go for a first date but casual enough to kick back and have a few glasses with friends. I drop in occasionally when looking for a particular bottle from the winemakers on offer.

I started coming every Sunday when I moved into the neighbourhood. Unlike many of the new bars cropping up, this one is special. What it lacks in pretentiousness, it makes up for with its welcoming team. I always have a Guinness on draft and don’t snooze on the table snacks.

Founded by Chef Yoji Tokuyoshi, Bentoteca is immensely creative Japanese kitchen utilising Italian ingredients that is followed up equally by its selection of wines. I like to bring friends from out of town here because It’s the one thing that should not be missed. If it’s your first time, go for the Omakase.

Born in the 1930’s, this Milanese patisserie and cafe exemplifies a historic period. Traditional, but elegant, the space hosts a large outdoor seating area to sip a cocktail, smoke cigarettes and people watch. Before I moved out of the neighbourhood, I spent my mornings on the sidewalk sipping coffee and chatting with friends.

A Roman kitchen housed in an unstuffy, classically adorned space. It’s my weekly go-to since I am always craving carbonara or cacio pepe with a small beer. Always full of locals which adds to its charm. Sit outside in the warmer months, but get there early.

A historically important restaurant in Milan for its cuisine and family-run atmosphere that was recently purchased and reopened by Italian fashion brand Loro Piana. In creative circles, it is also the place to be and be seen. Go for the legacy, stay for the Spaghetti limone e peproncino. Lovely space with limited seating and thankfully, no reservations.

A neighbourhood gem, Terroir has a well-curated selection of products from small Italian producers by its esteemed proprietor Gabry. My recommendation is to go in the evening, have a glass of wine and some meats and cheeses that you may select from the refrigerated shelves and they’ll prepare for you. Probably my favourite place to head for some me time and a glass or just to run into friends.

Located on a tree-lined street Porta Venezia, Union Fade has a nice selection of Americana from denim and work jackets to boots and accessories. Some of the best pieces are hanging up high so be sure to look up for some treasures.

Led by a trio of creatives that hosts a number of brand activations, dinners and occasional workshops. Tune into their IG for community happenings @spaziofonte.

What’s An Italian Fashion Week Without Food? Milan’s Best Eating Out Spots with Chuck George 

Montreal

One of my favourite spots to celebrate every win. It's close to the iconic RCA building where the gramophone was invented in St-Henri, Montreal. Grilled Italian food and a lot of natural wine.

This is my spot, you can find me there a whole weekend. Sans Soleil is a very small, 70s look listening bar with sashimi and sushi. Upstairs is Fleurs & Cadeaux with a more elaborate menu and more space to eat and sit. I had the best night in summer 2022 back there!

It's not too far from where I used to live, it's street Thai food and you can also buy natural wine and eat in the Parc 500 metres away from the restaurant. It's a must if you are in Little Italy in Montreal.

Obviously, Carolyn Aubry (aka @_whinemom_) is a very good friend. She used to be a personal wine shopper and got me all the best bottles to make my album in the cottage for two weeks. Now, she is the partner in the first importation wine shop in Montreal called Vinorama.

Anytime I have a date I go to Vinvinvin. It's in the east part of Beaubien Street in Montreal. Not too far from my place and it's very cute.

I mean, there was a time when Loïc was the most iconic place between 2016-2019, that's where I met many good friends. It was the best place to DJ before the pandemic. Felt like Europe vibes because it was never closing basically.

Datcha is a club at night but every Thursday there's a band trio with Zach Frampton on the keys playing before the DJ. I will always remember doing the jazz nights with him at Magdalena back in 2016. The owner, Madeleine, is the one who put me on natural wine. Since Magdalena closed, he moved his gig to Datcha. You get a tarot read, you drink good wine, eat good food and listen to an amazing jazz trio. And once in a blue moon when I'm in town, I continue the night with jazz dancefloor music.

Gayance's Guide to Natural Wine in Montreal

This is the second address in Paris after Lolo Cave à manger, down my house. Beautiful set up, amaaaazing food and quality natural wine. I’m in love with that place, I feel everything is perfect I just love it! Lolo will make you cosy - RONI

Fantastic selection of wines for all kinds of budgets. Ask for Laure or Pierre-Marie to guide you and they will make you discover beautiful bottles. If you are looking for a delicious but affordable Champagne taste the Charles Hubert Blanc de Blanc - Julien Jabre 

For the natural wine lovers like me, this is a great wine shop located between 2 of the best restaurants in Paris Le Dauphin & La Chateaubriand - RONI

That is another cool natural wine address located. Ask for Alex, he’ll take care of you! - RONI

If you fancy good food, natural wine and a nice listening session, head to Bambino. They have a beautiful and really good sound-system and fantastic music library - RONI

5 Natural Wine Bars You Need to Visit in Paris 

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

Athens

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 

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.

I live off Pizza Enervée at least three times a week. Pizza by the slice for €2.50 and the slice is a quarter of the pizza. Hungover, drunk or just hungry – it's there for all your moods. Their white bases are a winning underdog. Speed is not on their side though, so if it's a big queue have patience.

This sweet Afghan spot between Les Réformés and Longchamps is run by a mother and son. Marion does the lunchtime cooking, while Romain gives his mum the night off and does the evening service himself. It's a simple question of "beer or wine" and "meat or no meat," but what you get is a delicious and substantial plate of home cooking. If you're hungry there's always more, it's real hospitality.

My favourite patisserie orientale in Marseille. A traditional Tunisian Jewish bakery, David always has a really warm smile and knows what I'm after before I walk in the door. The potato and caper brick with the slice of lemon is the one.  Pick up a fricassé and sweet treats while you're there for the perfect spread on weekdays. Make sure you get fricassé sandwich (not to be confused with the one pot chicken dish). You'll find them in most corner patisseries in Noailles, served with a sweet mint tea or just to take away. Made by overfilling an oval-shaped doughnut dough with confit tuna, boiled egg, potato and olives. Always say yes to the spicy harissa, they will ask spicy or not spicy. Take the spicy option.

Little Italian; beautiful cooking and really good people, probably my favourite restaurant in Marseille. Don't miss out on the tripe if it's on the menu.

A classic seaside fish restaurant but it's as fresh as it gets. Go for lunch, you can pick a whole fish from the counter or take a pizza away and go have a wander round Les Goudes. There's a sweet little port, Croix de Cap Croisette, that's good for swimming if you follow the road round from Chez Paul to the water.

Head to Livingston on a Sunday or Monday. When a lot of other places can be closed, you can have a lively wine and dine using some of the best producers in the south of France. JB's vegetables really have been touched by Midas and Val's cooking is very distinctive and considered. He's one to watch.

I love to sit here for my morning coffee or dose of afternoon sun and people watch. Probably my favourite all day spot in the inner city, and it's guarded from the wind when the mistral is blowing.

The Best Restaurants in Marseille, Chosen by Chef Megan

We are a Parisian music label, good wine is essential to our work. You’ll find that here.

We love this wine bar with a diverse and musical crowd. Unexpected nights here have led to some of the most exciting music collabs in Paris.

This is a special place to take visiting artists. It’s a speakeasy bar that uses screens to imitate an actual busy train snaking through the Indian countryside, with passengers hopping off and on. Disorienting in the best way! Great cocktails and tapas.

One of our favourite places to catch up on music and unwind off-hours. You’ll always run into someone working in the music scene here.

A great industrial-style bar where you’ll find conversations flowing on music, politics and culture. Gives Berlin vibes.

A floating café and botanical library. Our favourite escape to, surprisingly, turn off the music, chill out and read.

An absolute hidden gem! We look forward to any excuse to pop in this restaurant for excellent Armenian food that doesn’t break the bank. A constant temptation just around the corner from our office.

We love the natural wines and ever-changing menu at Des Terres, where they are passionate about engaging.

This is one of our favourite Chinese restaurants in Paris. The plates and drinks endlessly move overhead, and it’s hard to not 'over order'. A must-visit for authentic vibes, hot delicious food and pure satisfaction.

A Guide on Where to Eat and Drink in Paris by InFiné

Essie Buckman

New York City 

A meet up spot for the fashion heads that you can’t miss if you’re coming for NYFW


My favourite is the Caesar Salad on the menu. It’s always good to catch up with people outside. I’ve been meeting friends at this spot all fashion week. 

This is my girl’s Korean soju bar. Ideal for between shows to get a quick drink and hang with friends or take a lil meeting. Such a vibe, I recommend this place A LOT!

Love this spot for a quick bite and drinks in the city. Especially after a long shopping day in soho. Watch out for the skater boys who are destined to ruin your life as supreme is right around the corner. Highly recommend the green papaya salad, ginger chicken, Chinese broccoli and fried rice!


Such a fun shopping experience, it’s giving clueless or laundrette! You can definitely find something cute in there exclusively from independent/upcoming designers. I particularly love their super weird selection of jewellery and accessories

The freshest sushi in NYC. So tasty and so good! Don’t fuck around, just get the Omakase tasting menu and try it all! They have a cocktail with a lychee in it, I can’t remember the name but I can’t stop ordering them.. clearly!


If you wanna ditch the fashion week parties for a bit as I surely will. You can head to Brooklyn and dance the night away at paragon! Guaranteed good music to get lost to in the smoke machines and lights


Where to Go During New York City Fashion Week with Essie Buckman

Melbourne

Excellent resource for niche interest books and publications, as well as architectural, art, design and esoteric stuff. New and out of print material. Located in the city's iconic Chicago school Nicholas Building.

There's hundreds of fancy wine and food bars in Melbourne, but Embla just always seems more delicious.

Also housed within the Nicholas Building, this is Melbourne's latest and greatest new record shop. Experimentally focussed, superbly curated – vinyl, CDs and publications.

Situated in a weird, grimy walk-through arcade in Preston, cooking homemade dumplings and noodles with delicious slow-cooked broth.

Stunning 100 hectare arboretum of both native and exotic species, not far from where I live, in the Dandenong Ranges. You'll probably find me walking my dog here or foraging for something. Beautiful sequoia plantations and lush native fern gullies. Good place to picnic or just meander around and get lost.

A mysterious, strange and eerie clustered rock formation on Wurundjeri/Dja Dja Wurrung/Taungurung country just outside of Melbourne. Truly interesting, beautiful energy to literally get lost in.

Not technically in Melbourne, but if you've made it this far, you may as well go an extra couple of hours for the most beautiful, varied, sometimes alien landscapes that Victoria has to offer. Home to my favourite Victorian beach, Fairy Cove. A really nice (long) day trip, but the overnight camping situations here are even better for the secret secluded stuff.

Amazing, delicious tapas and no frills vibe situated near my place.

For all your drip requirements! Located in the iconic Curtin House in the city – once home to Melbourne's communist party.

CS + Kreme’s Ultimate Guide to Melbourne

Tato Giovannoni

Buenos Aires

A staple on the World’s 50 Best Bar list since just after their opening, Florería is currently number 5 in the world, reflecting the huge growth on the Argentinian cocktail scene. The new menu is inspired by colonies and native towns, and from that, my favourite is Yamanas. Old Tom Gin, blue spirulina, earl grey, rose hip and patagónico king crab with pine mushroom bitters.

Probably one of the only bars that you can go to experience the golden era of Buenos Aires. Go here for the classic; a Clarito, the Argentine twist on the dry martini.

This relatively new bar from the younger generation of Argentinian bartenders is a great place to end the night. Trendy, hip music is played here throughout. Ask for a Milkisilin.

The third bar from the Ginoteria family, this new bar is in Chinatown, and in safe hands of old guard bartender of Pablo Pignata. It’s the only fast food style bar in Argentina, serving up gin & tonics, negronis and dry martinis. Fast, easy, simple and full of good vibes.

The newest bar from Ines De los Santos, this bar has great ambience and interiors, with a beautiful bar and food from Maximo Lopaz May. Inspired by French Vietnamese culture.

Also on the World’s 50 Best Bars list is Presidente. It’s super trendy and elegant, and a great place to go at any time of the day. Their list of signature and classic drinks is fantastic.

A must for any visit. Danzon was the bar that helped to nurture new talent and put Argentina on the world stage again for cocktails. The bar opened in 1998 and it’s still an amazing place to go. It was also the first wine bar in Argentina, with a beautiful restaurant, great cocktails and modern deco. My first job as a professional bartender was here.

This fantastic space plays tribute to tiki culture, run by Ludovico de Biaggi, one of the youngest new talents. It’s the same group as Danzon - great food, good music and always full of energy.

This amazing venue pays tribute to all the Argentinian classics. The owner is strict with what he serves and that’s just one of the reasons we love him - you’ll find no beers and no sodas here. Ask for a Ferroviario, or any classic you fancy. It’s a great place to start the night in a beautiful part of Buenos Aires.

Latin America's Top Mixologist Shares The Best Cocktail Bars in Buenos Aires

Tony Rais

Lyon

Our shop. If you like good clothes, you will find something. The red heart on the front door is a personal message who just wants to say "I love you."



Neighbourhood bar, since 30 years. Flashback to the 70s. Special mention for the very cool staff. Cool cheap beers, cool atmosphere and meeting place.



Shoutout to "The Sopranos." You have the best choice for natural wines. You can choice your bottle and drink here. Good music and vinyls in your ears also.

Everything is fresh, french and homemade. Full of tastes, you can eat from from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. Lyl Radio is on direct live, broadcast in Paris, Bruxelles too.

My favourite is the avocado bun and truffle croque. Turn your head and you have a big view to the city. Take your food and sit on the benches in the garden of the « montée de la grande-côte ». The neighbor is Maria Pizza, same owner.

Vintage store. Shop around, search, and discover the treasures of this store in a good atmosphere. You have rare items.

Next to the famous place des Terreaux. the building and the interior courtyard is just wonderful. Find some famous artists like Picasso and Matisse.

Typical french food, cheap, no reservation, say hi and take a seat. Near to the « Gros Caillou » place with a view.

Cross the bridge above the « quais de Saone ». Old town of Lyon, very touristic but it’s full of history, buildings, restaurants, silk factories and many others. You can walk, climb to see the famous Fourvière basilique, best spot view in Lyon around and antique theatre.

It’s on industrial district of « Confluence » but it’s a must have for nightlife. everything happens on the roof. Laurent Garnier, shareholder of the club, a real techno scene of Lyon. They are also about the big event « Nuits sonores » and « Heat » cultural place.

Lyon's Best Spots With Tony Rais

Barcelona

The Finestres bookstore is one of my favourite places in the city. When I need to unwind or seek a new source of inspiration, I visit this magnificent place filled with books of all kinds and topics. The bookstore itself has a cafe inside and some wonderful sofas that invite you to peruse the books. It's hard not to find the book you're looking for or leave the bookstore without something that caught your attention.

If you want to escape the city's hustle and bustle without going too far, I recommend taking a trip to the Fundació Miró, situated on Montjuïc Mountain. It is a true oasis. The Foundation's space features a bar where you can enjoy a coffee after delighting in the marvellous views of Barcelona from its rooftop. It is a relaxing and inspiring space where artworks are displayed at ease.

La Polla is the sister establishment of El Pollo, one of the best bars in Barcelona to enjoy Basque tapas accompanied by a good Txakoli wine or beer. The owners are delightful, and their charm is reflected in the excellent service they provide. The atmosphere is relaxed and it livens up at night, bringing life to the Sant Antoni neighbourhood. The venue is located right next to the iconic La Paloma dance hall.

If you're looking to breathe in fresh air and savour one of the city's best specialty coffees, Nomad Coffee is the perfect choice. Located in the unique Passatge Sert, on the border between El Born and L'Eixample, this place also has another cafe owned by the same proprietor in Poblenou. In the same Passatge Sert, you'll also find the offices of Modern Obscure Music.

Chef Mathieu stands out at Sra. Dolores for his skill in preparing delicious breaded dishes, such as brains, carbonara croquettes, lasagna, cod and asparagus arancini – which are elevated after passing through the fryer. Sra. Dolores distinguishes itself by finding the perfect balance between the hedonistic pleasure of fried dishes and the lightness of raw options. Additionally, it offers an interesting variety of natural wines, both national and international, to pair with the dishes. The restaurant's menu is constantly changing, and the daily specials add excitement and adventure to each visit.

Bar Brutal/Can Cisa is a wonderful place located in Barcelona's El Born neighbourhood. It is hard to find a competitor when it comes to natural wines, and it also offers a demanding menu tailored to the most discerning palates. The venue has a surrealistic touch that reminds me of the legendary, now-closed Vinçon store and the works of the eccentric painter Salvador Dalí. The wait staff, just like the owner, is excellent.

Having had the opportunity to travel to Mexico twice, I can confidently say that there is no more authentic Mexican restaurant in Barcelona than Pachuco. It is located on Santa Pau Street, between Rambla del Raval and Avenida Paralelo, very close to La Confiteria and Sala Apolo. A good plan would be to have dinner at Pachuco, have a cocktail at La Confiteria and then go dancing to a great DJ session or enjoy a concert at Sala Apolo.

A Guide to Barcelona, Mapped Out by Pedro Vian

Lorenzo BITW

Rome

One of the biggest food markets of the city and a place where you can get lost really easily. I love to go shopping there when I have time to spend and find some particular food or something very typical that you won’t find in supermarkets.

Il Mangiadischi is a small record store situated in the area of San Lorenzo, Fidel Kato the owner is an hip hop and rap connoisseur and he will make you feel at home when you enter into the store.

The place is tiny and you can’t even sit inside, they will call it now street food but it’s something we always had in Rome. Supplì is the best thing to try there, a fried rice balls with ragù inside.

I love the fact that the owners of this spot are quite rude and they have the characteristics of the typical Roman guys. The bar is situated in popular area of Testaccio and the best thing to try there is Zabaione.

This is where locals in my area, Prati, go to have a drink or to chill but it’s not the usual Prati spot because it’s cheap and people are friendly. If you go there try Spritz mezzo e mezzo.

This beautiful building was built by Borromini and it has a unique architecture, inside there is also an incredible library. The place is not always open so it’s a matter of luck of walking by and find the doors opened.

This place is kind of magic and it has his own charm. Hanging everywhere there are communist posters and they serve only wine or prosecco. They have a really good selection of wine and you can also bring your own food and eat there.

Explore Rome's Best Local Spots with Lorenzo BITW

My after-hours go-to in Kerameikos, a favourite neighbourhood in Athens. A quirky outdoors space with a skateboard bowl and bar, all set within an urban industrial courtyard. You’ll see many a local scene hero DJing here. One night could be R&B, another paying homage to Greek new wave and synth pop, I love the spontaneity of it all. Nice drinks with a laidback atmosphere and vibe.

Owner George is an absolute dreamboat. He is THE GUY when it comes to sourcing rare Levis and vintage jeans. I always have such a vibe playing dress-up in his shop. If you’re looking for a particular piece in denim, chances are he has it. It’s a real treasure trove of unique pieces and George is always happy to assist.

My favourite for designer garms and Y2K thrifting. Visits are by appointment only: reach out on their Instagram to book. Store owner Alexandra Koumantaki, a visual artist and musician, will meet you at the door and take you through her amazing finds.

The spicy mezcal margarita is to die for! Owners Stelios and George are mezcal connoisseurs. My favourite place for cocktails in Athens. If you love a bit of Mexican culture, here’s your authentic spot.

Some of the most flavourful and experimental dishes I’ve come across. You wouldn’t even notice the dishes are vegan. The watermelon (tuna) poke dish is an absolute showstopper. Even my devout, meat-eating Greek father approved. Make sure you save some room for dessert – the pavlova slaps.

Come here for your Greek souvlaki fix (kebab). I always go for the chicken gyros with tzatziki and all the extras. There’s a wide selection of meats and they also offer veggie options for the meatless crew.

My sister and I probably come here once a week. Best vegan souvlaki I’ve ever tasted. Their mushroom gyros is absolutely ridiculous, using four to six different kinds of mushrooms, with a zero waste philosophy, only using organic produce. Owner Tony still won’t tell me how they make their vegan mayo, but I’m working on it.

Family-owned Lebanese street food spot, a short walk away from the Acropolis. Classic recipes passed down from generation to generation, serving up good quality Middle Eastern flavours. Desserts, truffles, lahmacun, peinirli, zaatar pastries and lentil soups, as well as some great vegan options. You absolutely have to sample it.

Peng natural wines from all corners of Greece, in the heart of Exarcheia. Served with yummy cheese and meat platters. Perfect for a late night chill with pals. I recommend the Doric orange wine from the Balatsouras Winery – it’s so good!

The smell as you walk past this bakery is enough to entice anyone who passes by. This is honestly my favourite spot to come to for a classic spanakotiropita (Greek spinach and feta filo pie). Freshly baked pastries, tsoureki, pies and biscuits, with 15 types of koulouri bread rings (orange, walnuts, mastic, cinnamon, etcc) as well as the classic, corn, rye, seed and horiatiko village bread on offer – it’s an absolute must. Order a chocolate and walnut tsoureki, and fill a box with cookies to have with friends. Go for the pistachio, moustokouloura, mahlepi and sesame flavours for a proper taste of Greece.

Best seafood in Athens and worth the taxi ride out of the city centre. Make sure you order the octopus stifatho on melitzanosalata (baked octopus in tomato sauce and smoky aubergine puree); calamari yemisto psito (grilled, stuffed squid), lobster spaghetti, saganaki prawns, gavros, vlita, fries, tzatziki and feta! Better to come with a whole crew, so you can sample everything.

Firm favourite with the locals. Come here for lunch and authentic Greek meze. Staple orders: horta (wild greens), calamari, gigantes (giant beans), gavros (fish), fava (white bean dip), kolokithokeftedes (zucchini fritters), revithia (chickpeas), fasolia mavromatika (black-eyed bean salad) and obviously horiatiki (Greek salad). It's super wholesome and traditional, with lots of cute old men sat outside with their tavli and komboloi.

Really cute clothing and record shop owned by DJ and producer Astytekk, who’s a fellow Movement Radio resident. All the clothes are super niche, often from independent Greek designers (as well as my own MDMX-01 collection inside). Situated next door to one of my favourite hangouts, Handlebar, the shop is often open 'til late, and a nice street to come check out after hours.

Gourmet sandwiches since 1988, in the small neighbourhood of Koukaki. Out to Runner (my fellow Movement Radio DJ) for putting me onto this sandwich joint. He swears it’s the best sandwich shop in Athens and I have to agree! So many cheese varieties, cured meats and smells. It’s a must!

A humble burger joint serving up one item on the menu. Boasting good quality ingredients and zero waste values, Chef Fahk and partner Myrtia have taken it back to basics with their classic no-nonsense cheeseburger. Choose between a juicy single or double patty, and enjoy big flavours at small prices.

Kick is my coffee spot in Kypseli. Order the classic Cappuccino Fredo for the true iced-coffee experience, get there early for breakfast and spend a couple of hours “working from home” with your laptop, soaking up the sun in the company of other like-minded nomads.

Yet another fantastic Souvlaki Grillhouse. I recommend the ‘Calamaki’ meat skewers which can come in pork and chicken, as well as the traditional ‘Loukaniko’ - mixed meat sausage, often flavoured with orange peel, leeks, fennel seed and various other dried herbs, sometimes smoked over aromatic woods.

Cobra High is a really special unique hangout spot in the heart of Neos Kosmos. It's more than just a bar! It's a common-room for the community, full of creativity, artists and personality. Owner Gregoris is so hospitable and passionate and it really shines through his space. Hosting good foods, music, exhibitions, seminars, private birthday parties and home-brewed Kombucha, it's a lovely spot for a modest night out, with good vibes and people.

Madam X’s Guide to Athens

Julien Jabre

Two of my favourite Japanese restaurants in Paris. I love the atmosphere at both places and everything is delicious. Their sobas are very tasty but delicate. Best tonkatsu sandwich at lunch on Saturdays at Abri.

The Japanese chef Takao Inazawa revisits classics from worldwide with a subtle touch of his own. His couscous is one of the best i’ve ever had. The co-owner, Benoit, will take care of your thirst with super pleasing confidential wines of his findings.

No reservations so be there early! Beautiful atmosphere to enjoy the best seafood brought to another level by Bertrand Grébaud from Septime. Share many tapas along with well picked white wines or saké.

Fantastic selection of wines for all kinds of budgets. Ask for Laure or Pierre-Marie to guide you and they will make you discover beautiful bottles. If you are looking for a delicious but affordable Champagne taste the Charles Hubert Blanc de Blanc.

A Lebanese institution where I feel at home. I have never had falafel this delicious outside of Lebanon and they are by far my no. 1 in Paris. Their kebbe labanieh (meatballs in hot yogurt) is amongst the best I’ve tasted. And a little karabije for dessert!

The historical boutique feels like time-traveling as it's the oldest chocolaterie in Paris. It’s very dangerous for my leaver to go there. All their chocolate bites are fabulous as well as their homemade black sesame ice cream, marzipan, chocolate nut spread…

Look out for the big lantern. I’m a big ramen eater and it’s my no. 1 broth in town. The miso ramen is the one to take at lunch, the shoyu at night (because it’s "lighter").

One of my canteens where super friendly Alexia and Flo cook tasty homemade veggie and not veggie meals. Also their bun sandwiches are incredibly tasty and fluffy, the "jambon Prince de Paris with comté" is my favourite. 

A take away ony for the best chicken with garlic shawarma or veggie shawarma. Their houmous and baba ghanouj are ones of my favourite in town.

After a good ramen in Saint Anne’s area, go to Telescope for a great espresso shot. And even if you’re stuffed, have a cookie…

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