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

Similar Guides

Benji B's Favourite Restaurants in London

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 

Shop Ghana's Emerging Fashion Brands with King Promise

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

A Guide to London’s Art Spaces by Flora Yin-Wong

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

Discover Murcia with Sita Abellan

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

Explore Accra with Darkovibes 

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

Sexy Interiors and Relaxed Wine Bars: Byul Kim's Guide to Seoul Nights

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 

La Lovemaker's Guide to the Best Record Stores in CDMX 

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

Is Berghain Still Berlin's Best Club? Francois X Thinks So

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.

Hollywood Cinema Movie Nights

Leisure's Guide to Top Spots In Auckland

Enrico Gambadoro

Italy

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!

Bar Artale 

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.

Cappuccio

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.

Chiodo

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.

Trattoria Pesce Azzurro 

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.

Enoteca Solaria 

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.

Malamore 

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.

Divino Mare 

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.

Boats

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.

La Barca

A Guide to Ortigia Island by Festival Founder Enrico Gambadoro

Karun

Kenya

Nairobi

It's a super cute Vegan-friendly and child-friendly cafe that has an all-deaf waiting staff. They also sometimes have a market of all sorts of Kenyan made crafts.

Pallet Cafe

Especially when they have the flea market, or on Wednesday evenings when they have the ‘Speaker Box’. Speaker Box is a series of live acoustic music performances curated by Patricia Kihoro. (Check out her socials, she has great taste in music and always find the best underground indie/folk/jazz Kenyan artists to play.)

K1 Klub House

I like this restaurant because she always has some dope Kenyan art on display and for sale (Painters, Photographers, mixed media) and live acoustic music on Saturdays.

The Collective Restaurant

Oloolua Forest

Or this one, depending on what’s closest. Also great trails. (Also Tip, there are multiple entrances to Karura, find the lesser-known ones for a more peaceful time.)