ZAMILSKA

Iceland

Reykjavík

In Iceland we have many wonderful things: clean water, clean air, breathtaking views, volcanoes, geysers, glaciers, LGBT marriages. But what we don’t have is specialty coffee – even though Iceland ranks high when it comes to coffee consumption. And I am an awful snob about this. I bring back kilos of specialty coffee from Poland, but sometimes my supplies run out, and then I’m always saved by the baristas at Reykjavik Roasters. They have three charming locations scattered around the city. A quick coffee, a long meeting with a friend, a nice date after a walk – it always turns out I end up meeting people there. Relaxed, casual atmosphere. You can drop in to work, read a book, or just stare blankly into space.

Reykjavik Roasters

I come from Poland, and when it comes to pierogi I have serious standards. Pierogi is life. Can you imagine the relief Polish people in Iceland felt when Kemuri, a Polish pierogi place, opened? What’s more – these pierogi are so good they bring tears to your eyes. On top of that – excellent cakes, incredibly kind service, and a super cozy interior. It’s practically the meeting center for young Poles. Don’t have time, or simply don’t feel like making pierogi for the holidays? Kemuri always comes to the rescue. I think no Polish grandma would ever be ashamed of their pierogi.

Kemuri

In English that means 'the good shepherd.' Why? I have no idea. If you need dopamine in your life and at the same time you’re a fan of buying second-hand things, this place will be like paradise for you. Paradise with no way out. A paradise where you enter and come out a week later. The strangest, most wonderful second-hand shop. They have EVERYTHING. Furniture, dishes, electronics, books. It doesn’t even make sense for me to list them. Want a lamp shaped like a dinosaur? No problem. Need a toaster? Here you go. Everything checks out here. You can dig out design pearls for small money, furnish a flat, discover wonders, and at the same time take care of the planet by not adding to the production of more things that later float in the ocean. 90% of the things in our apartment come from this shop, and we already have the reflex that if we need something, we first go check whether they have it second-hand. Win-win.

Gòði Hirðirinn

For me, after sound, smell is the most important way of “remembering” reality. If you want to take a piece of Iceland home with you, you should definitely go to Fischersund. It’s a perfumery founded in 2017 by Jónsi from Sigur Rós and his family. Perfumes are handmade using high-quality Icelandic oils, poured and packaged by hand in a sustainable way in Iceland. They are inspired by Iceland’s pure, unique nature, using herbs and oils gathered in Iceland’s wilderness. Each perfume also has its own visual and… musical identity. The perfumery itself is absolutely magical. It’s like crossing an Icelandic door in the center of Reykjavík that suddenly takes you right into the middle of nature. Here everything makes sense, and scent and sound have never been so perfectly matched.

Fischersund

In Icelandic it means “Bad Taste,” and that’s also the name of the record label located in this space. First, there was a radio program hosted by Ásmundur Jónsson and Guðni Rúnar Agnarsson from 1975–1983. It was practically a progressive music school for Icelanders. For their final broadcast in July 1983, they gathered a “supergroup” of musicians who, in their view, represented the most interesting elements of the musical wave that had swept Iceland since the early 1980s. Among them was Björk Guðmundsdóttir. Since the radio performance was meant to be a one-off, the group initially had no name, but soon decided to continue – and the band was named Kukl. They performed across Europe to positive reception, though their music was considered dark, complex, and hard to digest.

The people behind Kukl shared more than just the desire to make innovative music – they aimed to create a foundation for a self-sustaining culture that could thrive without the support of the state or mass media. That foundation later transformed into Bad Taste. The name comes from Pablo Picasso’s manifesto: “Good taste and frugality are the enemies of creativity.” Bad Taste is also the birthplace of the band The Sugarcubes. The first work of Smekkleysa was a postcard drawn by Friðrik Erlingsson, then guitarist of Sykurmolarnir (Icelandic for The Sugarcubes), the band led by Einar Örn and Björk. It featured the faces of Mikhail Gorbachev and Ronald Reagan, a map of Iceland, and the flags of the USSR and the United States in the background, due to the Reykjavík Summit in October 1986.

Smekkleysa is now a record shop named after the label, located in downtown Reykjavík. Besides a huge assortment of records, books, and merch, it’s also a hub of independent music. Countless events, concerts, and regular DJ sets organized by Björk and her friends take place there. Just imagine the faces of tourists strolling downtown Reykjavík when through the window they suddenly see Björk bouncing like a ball, blasting her gabber set in the middle of the day.

Smekkleysa

Another center of independent music in Reykjavík. Founded in 1998, 12 Tónar is truly a legendary record store and record label in the heart of Reykjavík. I remember walking in for the first time on shaky legs because I only knew it from legendary stories. In 2019 they also opened a bar and café, which became very popular among locals. They regularly host concerts and events in the store or in their beautiful garden.

12 Tónar

This is a small lake right in the center of Reykjavík. Supposedly nothing special – but there lives a very special swan. I’m not sure if it’ll still be there, we feed to check first; lately it disappears for long stretches. It’s a swan with a crooked neck, famous among locals. It looks like a periscope. Nobody knows what happened to it. Some say it was born like that, others that it was attacked – though it would’ve had to be bitten by a whole pack of coyotes. I don’t know. Anyway, it melts my heart completely. It always swims off to the side because it’s different. I’m so fond of it that I even decided to tattoo it with the inscription J’adore Hardcore…

Tjörnin

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United States

Los Angeles 

On Running

In LA, there’s really no Caribbean culture. So, the Jerk Spot is one of those places that I go to and it makes me forget that I’m in LA kind of thing. The food’s incredible, the area is like this little small, almost hole-in-the-wall type spot. I’m a big foodie.

The Jerk Spot

In my free time, I’ve been taking photos. I’m like a fake photographer, for me it’s significant because it’s when you create memories and don’t take photos of them, you almost forget about them. So, when I go to that photo lab to develop my photos and I receive them, it almost feels like me reliving these memories.

D & J Digital Imaging

The taco truck experience feels cultural, it feels like a good place to coagulate, sit on the block. Get some tacos, vibe out. It’s very communal, in like the most street-possible way. LA culture is completely different and i feel like that taco truck adds like a little bit more street-ness to Los Angeles. You gotta do the Carnita tacos with the green sauce.

Leo's Taco Truck 

For me, it’s all about trying to find different flavours in this city because like I said, LA is so spread out that sometimes it’s kinda hard to find pockets of things. But this spot has a very strong Parisian feel. It’s kind of like a little Paris hangout, it feels like you’re in the middle of Paris even though you’re in the middle of LA. And you know the drinks are amazing and the thought process behind that experience, again, like I said, I’m a foodie, so it’s kind of just where I hang out. The crowd there is more creative.

La Poubelle

The thing about this spot is that it gives me a clash of culture and creativity. Because everyone that’s selling stuff there or goes there is usually from a lack of funds, it’s not a lot of wealthy people or people that are affluent that really go there. You just get to see what everybody’s taste is and how everyone’s trying to relate what they’re putting forward. It gives me a sense of a melting pot.


Slauson Swamp

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Benji B

United Kingdom

London

If I could move in here and (afford to) eat lunch and dinner every day I would. Italian-based food with locally sourced ingredients in a great setting - tastefully done and a special night out but not overly fancy. If it's nice weather sit in the small garden. Food is absolutely banging. I’ve always liked this neighbourhood too.
Who to ask for: Johnny
What to order: Everything on the menu.

Luca

One of my favourite local West Indian spots in North London.
What to order: fish stew or curry chicken w/ rice and peas & a veg pattie 
Who to ask for: Don’t ask for anyone, just get in line. Talking of which, if you are in a rush and it's lunchtime this ain't the place for you. Just know that all good things come to those who… wait in a long queue.

Peppers and Spice

Sometimes only Ranoush Juice will do. More of a takeaway snack spot than a sit down place, although there are a few tables if you want to eat and go. Sometimes I realise it's on route to somewhere I’m headed and I’ll divert to make a stop, sometimes I’ll just make the trip especially. I go there for one specific item: the Ranoush Juice Shawarma wrap: one is never enough and two is too much.
What to order: Chicken Shawarma wrap and a fresh carrot juice

Ranoush Juice 

Just off Shaftesbury Avenue near Chinatown, serving a Middle Eastern menu inspired by Israeli cooking, Southern Spain and North Africa, the food here is fresh and good for lunch or dinner and is made in the open kitchen, right in front of you.
Who to ask for: Well, if you remember Layo and Bushwaka - The DJ duo closely associated with The End Nightclub in London, this is Layo’s place! So you could ask for him, or shake his hand and say good job.
What to order: Fattoush Salad, Persian Lemon Chicken, Tomato Labneh and plenty of Baharat Farmhouse Bread.

The Palomar

Low-key cafe breakfast spot that keeps it simple and gets it right. Breakfast also might be my favourite meal of the day to be honest.
Who to ask for: Elliot.
What to order: Scrambled eggs on 2 toast with parmesan shaving on top, hash browns and a cup of tea (I don’t eat red meat but if you like your bacon and all that theres plenty of that too).

Norman's Cafe

Had to put a Japanese spot in this list and there are loads I could have chosen but I’m going with Dinings because it is top level Japanese food in an understated place. Was originally started by ex-Nobu chefs in 2006. I’ve eaten there from time to time over the years and it has maintained its quality.
What to order: Hamachi Tar Tar Chips, Unagi Nigiri, Miso Aubergine, Black Cod.

Dinings

Top floor of the Standard in Kings Cross in London. Mexican and Spanish influenced menu. Environment posh but city vibe, feels like you’re in New York, lighting and design on point, definitely good for a night out. With the location being in Kings Cross, it gives a good mix of people -- and views. Food and drinks top level. Definitely not cheap tho.
Who to ask for: Thomas is the boss.
What to order: Cauliflower Tacos, Spanish Tortilla, Day Boot Fish. A Negroni before or an Old Fashioned after, depending on which way round you do it. Bartenders know what they are doing.

Decimo

Feels like it would be rude not to include this classic. The OG Arcola street Mangal 1. What is there to say other than that I’ve ended up in here more than few times over the years. I respect this place a lot, the environment in the neighbourhood around this place has changed so much but this place has remained. There are undoubtedly loads of amazing Turkish places in London but this place is a classic.
What to order: Cacik, Tavuk Sis or Moussaka.

Mangal 1

Classic Italian family run vibe not tryna be a cool spot but with a classic traditional feel. In a way this is the random one on the list - not sure why I like it so much but I do. Has a casual family feel to it, even if it ends up feeling a bit posh because of where it's located (Marylebone) and who goes there. I think I went in by chance once and I ended up going back. Not on the foodie cool list, you might go there and think “huh?” - but I like it for a secret straight up traditional Italian.
What to order: Cacio e Pepe, followed by Sea Bass.

Il Baretto

This place been open for years and years but its hard to tell sometimes which nights it opens. Very simple environment - not a “night out” but good if you want a simple home cooking feel. Low key and casual, sometimes with shared tables. 
What to order: Fresh Bread, Banjon Borani, Lavand-e-murgh.

Afghan Kitchen

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King Promise 

Ghana

Accra

You can’t mention Ghana street fashion and not mention them. Coolest kids vibes curated by street kids. Too solid!

Free the Youth

This brand is mad innovative. They bring my ideas to life. Growing up on the streets of Accra, thrift shopping on the streets of Cantamanto which is the hub of second hand goods, pretty much shaped our fashion sense and Vigi Force is a direct representation of that for me…

Vigi Force 

Custom made high end style made at affordable Accra city rates for the streets. Great quality mixed with good style…

Alchemy 

More than fashion, their pair of jeans with Kwame Nkrumah prints is my fav.

Fumais 

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One of my favourite galleries in London, it’s a good mid-sized, one room space which means it’s usually an immersive solo show [and] expertly-curated. I remember one of my favourite exhibits was an amazing Ima Abasi-Okon installation filling the room with industrial air conditioners moving at various speeds and duration.

Chisenhale Gallery

It’s in a pretty quiet area with not much around so I don’t go very often, but Gasworks tends to have interesting cross-cultural work, and are currently doing an open call, working with artists in Indonesia and Bangkok.

Gasworks 

I’ve been going to this institution since I was 15 or so, which is wild. I like how multi-faceted the space is – hosting gigs and club nights to lesser-known films and talks – plus, there’s a great bookshop which I love and am honoured to have the new book on my label, Doyenne, stocked at.

Institute of Contemporary Arts

Not sure if this strictly counts as an ‘arts space’ but it’s such a London staple for underground culture in terms of music and disciplines that cross over.

Ormside Projects

A very DIY independent space with the best multi-channel sound system in London with insane clarity.

Iklektik

They have a huge artist residency and development programme, hosting events and workshops with the likes of Nkisi, Paul Purgas, Lawrence Lek and Tai Shani. I did a video and sound commission for their Gallery 31 space, and went to a circuit-hacking workshop with Taiwanese Buddha boxes which was cute.

Somerset House

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Sita Abellan

Spain

Murcia

Every room of this place feels like it kind of hides a story, like if you were going back in time. It’s a very special place in Murcia.

Casino de Murcia

When I visit Murcia I always make sure I pass by this place. I love coming here especially on Sunday mornings and watching the view of the city in nature. It’s a very relaxing place.

La Fuensanta

There is no other place more beautiful than The Cathedral for me. It’s style combines gothic with barroco. It’s a must see.

La Catedral

The best ensaladilla rusa in Murcia!! Marineras is one of my favourite “aperitivo” dishes. Simple and so tastyyyy with a glass of wine.

Café Bar

And because I enjoy eating and I do it well, one of my favourite places in Murcia to eat. They have many typical Murcia dishes.

La Parranda Restaurant

This heavy metal bar was part of my teenage years in Murcia. I spent so many afternoons, nights and even days in this place. Just listening from punk to heavy. This place was kind of significant for me when I was younger since I got so many references from it.

La Boca del Lobo

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Tainá Vilela

Brazil

Rio de Janeiro

I would mostly be skeptical about eating two of the most famous Brazilian delicacies together: pao de queijo and acai, but please order both if you go to this place

Cultivar

Every Monday there’s live samba music at Pedra do Sal. The place was originally a Quilombo village, which held houses of freed slaves. Famous Brazilian musicians have played there. Arrive at around 6pm!

Pedra do Sal

Most guides will feature Lenny and Osklen but the best kept secret of cool carioca girls is Haight, a modern minimalist swimwear brand. They also make jumpers and baggy trousers that are everything

Haight

Ana Porto does some of the nicest pieces of jewellery in Brazil. They're all handcrafted with local stones and have a modern feel. You can visit her atelier which is right by Haight

Ana Porto

If colour blocking is your thing, Wymann is the brand for you. Founded by ex-model Raquel, the brand plays with folds and colours. Ask them how the colours are produced!

WYMANN

If going to bohemian Santa Teresa, grab a roast sandwich or an aubergine pizza if you're veggie. I’d also recommend the batida de coco. The owner's a bit serious, but you can always try get her to crack a smile. Take cash cause they don’t accept cards!

Goya Beira

This house belongs to the Moreira Salles family (bankers, cinematographers and publishers). It’s a classic example of great 50s architectural work. It now serves as a cultural centre dedicated mostly to photography, music, literature and iconography exhibits and events

Instituto Moreira Salles

An old chocolate factory that now holds space for artists ateliers, rising fashion brands (check out the accessories of Atelier Tarsila and say hello to Cla, the owner) and a very charming bookshop (Felipe, the owner, is always there and can help you with art and Sufism books, but also pro food tips). Every first Saturday of the month people flock there to shop, drink and see the sunset. Def go to the rooftop for some live music and a cold beer

Fabrica Bhering

Tainá Vilela in Rio de Janeiro

Darkovibes

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.

Club Twist 

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


Belleza beach club

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


The Republic Bar

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

Epo's restaurant

A beautiful rooftop view with live band performances.


Sky Bar 25

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


Labadi Beach

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


Ace Tantra Club

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Byul Kim

South Korea

Seoul

My favourite record bar is owned by my close friends. It has very nice speakers with great music, a cosy and sexy interior, and what makes it very special are the very welcoming staff and service.

Hills & Europa

Key venue for the Seoul club scene, Kockiri is a gay bar/club known for its inclusivity. Another draw of the bar is its beautiful terrace that faces a giant tree, providing a relaxing atmosphere to enjoy drinks and good company.  

Kockiri

One of the best wine joints, with a very relaxing and lively atmosphere, good bites and great selection of natural wine along with great service.

Wildduck Canteen

It's hard to find authentic Mexican food in Seoul—this spot brings a true Mexican taste.

Taco Stand

Authentic Chinese lamb skewers with a great menu, run by Chinese owners. 

No.1 Lamb Skewers

They serve authentic eastern Arabian food. Must try the falafels and mansaf.

Petra

One of South Korea's top designers, a nice space to shop their designs.

Hyein Seo

Funny people and unique experiences, a great stop to admire Ojas speakers with a great selection of music.

Supreme Seoul

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La Lovemaker

Mexico

Mexico City 

Although it's true that it is a new concept in the record store in the City, the partners have a long history in the field of vinyl records, at each visit it is normal that you find new records of various genres. The place is comfortable and welcoming, there will always be someone to guide you to buy a new record. And the prices are real and accessible. Their selection is mostly 7¨ records.

Casa Calypso

In the heart of the Doctores neighborhood it is possible to find a great selection of varied music in 7' and 12'. In the catalog it is possible to find everything from the most classic to the "secret boxes" full of the most difficult to find items. Only first editions. It is a space where occasionally there are selections of DJs and Bands.

Ruido Records

It is the only store in CDMX that continues to maintain a subculture as its banner, this store is a tribute to an era. Music listened to by mods and rudeboys. You can find, Northern Soul, Ska, 60s Beat, Psychedelia, among other vintage sounds.

Chez Nobody Records 

Shop specializing in counterculture music like garage, punk, hardcore, exotic, also iconic compilations from independent labels, totally street music.

Sabotage 

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Franciois X

Germany

Berlin

Still the best club in the world for me. The space, the crowd, the frequency, it’s unique. I usually go when I’m playing or to support friends, and I always prefer the Sunday late afternoon into the night — it’s when the regulars take over. I don’t drink, so it’s banana juice at the bar for me just pure energy, no filter.

Berghain

Not a club, but essential. Before going out, especially to Berghain, I always stop by Hard Wax. It’s the place to get grounded in the city’s sonic atmosphere. I go there to dig for records, absorb the energy, and connect with the deeper vibration of Berlin’s underground.

Hard Wax

RSO represents a new chapter in Berlin nightlife. Raw and bold. I love playing there and the booth is great, and the energy is different. Sundays can be amazing, but don’t sleep on Saturdays either, just check the lineup. Always a place to discover fresh techno directions and hear new voices.

RSO.Berlin 

Before COVID, OHM was one of my go-to spots. Super intimate, very close to the artists, with a refined, almost classy vibe. I haven’t been in a while, but it used to be one of those places where the connection between sound, space, and people just made sense.

The Berlin Atonal at Kraftwerk is a super beautiful festival sitting right at the frontier between experimental music and contemporary art. I go there for the full experience installations, sound pieces, performances, exhibitions. It’s inspiring on every level and really expands the idea of what music culture can be.

Kraftwerk

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LEISURE 

New Zealand

Auckland 

My favourite place after potentially one too many the night before; breakfast burger, a flat white and jam donut will set you on your way!

Hare and Turtle 

Easily my favourite beer in the world, straight from the tap, the feijoa sour is amazing! I would recommend a tasting paddle and go from there.

8 Wired Brewing 

Our local spot in West Auckland the best smashed beef burgers and whanau vibes, bring extra dollars for a t-shirt.

Lucky G's 

My favourite west coast beach getaway, incredible views and bush walks. Please make sure to read the trespassing signs, respect the locals land and be cautious of swimming on rough days (stick to the river).

Anawhata

The cheapest and most authentic Japanese Ramen spot in Auckland, make sure you have plenty of room as the portions are a decent size and you’ll want to slurp every drop.

Ramen Do

A lovely gallery / shop hosting incredible work from top Māori creatives, lovely staff who are generous with the backstories of the work and it’s creator.

Unity Collection

Best coffee in the world, easily the best flat white! Make sure to grab a bag of beans to go.

Miller’s Coffee

An incredible old movie theatre which hosts classic movies nights and some of the best live local music in town. Either option is a blast! LEISURE performed 2 nights here for our second album Twisters release.