As you know, we love to travel to new destinations and discover wonderful flavors. So on a recent journey to California, we were delighted to experience a vast array of wonderful San Jose eats and treats. If you don’t know, San Jose is in what’s known as the “Silicon Valley” area of northern California. But beyond all the fantastic technology companies, you will discover an incredibly rich and diverse culinary destination, from Michelin-starred chefs and five-star dining to hidden secrets, finds, and tasty desserts. There’s something for every budget and every taste in this charming, laid-back, California town.
Here’s a sampling of what we tried. The sweet endings include a mascarpone cheesecake, a trio of creme brulee, and other delicious ways to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Left Bank Brasserie
We had an excellent French lunch at the Left Bank Brasserie. From the sidewalk cafe, outstanding wine list, and classic menu choices, you really felt that you escaped to Paris for just a few hours.
Left Bank Brasserie Sidewalk Cafe
Located on the always lively Santana Row in San Jose, Left Bank Brasserie is an authentic Parisian-style brasserie. So, we tried an authentic (and delicious) salad Nicoise. We were not disappointed.
Salad Nicoise at Left Bank Brasserie in San Jose
Having a leisurely lunch almost demands a dessert be ordered. Our personal favorite, profiteroles, made for a blissful ending to a perfect afternoon.
Les Profiteroles at Left Bank Brasserie in San Jose
San Pedro Square Market
Seems like just about every city has a “market” now but not everyone can boast a market with a wide array of vendors and a relaxing courtyard to meet up with friends over great food. San Pedro Square Market, located in downtown San Jose is a little gem that has so many great food choices it took almost half an hour before we settled on what to try.
San Pedro Square Market in San Jose
This city market has over 25 vendors, in three spacious market halls that feature everything from wood-fired pizza, delicate crepes, and Spanish tapas to regionally-inspired hot dog creations.
Sweet Desserts at San Pedro Square Market
Of course, there are plenty of treats for dessert too. Like fresh chocolate chunk cookies. Who can resist? The market is a perfect place to visit whether you want to grab a morning coffee, lunch, or dinner with live music.
This is just a brief sampling of the wonderful, tasty food options you’ll find in San Jose. We have only begun to scratch the surface, and hope we’ve encouraged you to find your way to San Jose.
THE QUICK BITE: If you’re looking to visit a city that offers many tasty food offerings for just about every budget or style be sure to check out San Jose eats and treats.
Pin to your California Food and Travel Board on Pinterest
Holidays tend to be full of traditions and one of my favorite traditions is when the Christkindlmarket opens in Chicago. The Christkindlmarket in Chicago, which opened in 1996 was inspired by the Christkindlesmarkt in Nurenberg, Germany which started way back in 1545.
Roasting Nuts At Christkindlmarket Chicago
The Christkindlmarket is an outdoor market that brings the tastes and treats of a European market to the middle of downtown Daley Plaza.
Christkindlmarket Chicago
When you get to the Christkindlmarket with Picasso’s sculpture as a backdrop you immediately smell the grilled bratwurst, potato pancakes, spiced nuts, and schnitzel wafting through the air. With all those special scents, you know you’ve arrived.
Prost!
Warm gluhwein, hot chocolate, coffee, and German beer make a great first stop before beginning your journey through the many vendors. Gluhwein is typically red wine with spices such as cinnamon, cloves, citrus, and sugar that is served warm in a small mug. It’s a great way to help keep a bit warmer on a cold Chicago day. The adorable commemorative mugs for hot drinks cost a little extra but make fun collectible souvenirs.
Beautiful Christmas Ornaments!
We would suggest then strolling the market with your drink of choice. Whether you’re just window shopping or looking for the perfect holiday gift you’re bound to be pleased by the large variety and many selections of unique offerings. Handmade German Christmas ornaments are a popular item and lines of customers wait to go in and pick out just the right ones for their Christmas tree. Kathe Wohlfahrt has hundreds of hand-blown ornaments to choose from in a comfortable enclosed tent. There are many more ornaments, beer steins, Black Forest cuckoo clocks, nativities, music, toys, and crafts as you wander through the market.
Grilling the sausages!
One of our favorite things is the authentic food flavor of the Christkindlmarket! Many German specialties are here including grilled sausages, pretzels, schnitzel, strudel, potato pancakes, crepes, hot nuts, candies, gingerbread hearts – almost everything you can find in a German Christmas market.
Handcrafts for everyone.
People tend to be in great spirits, and willingly share where they got this or that trinket or treasure, where they’re visiting from, or things not to miss. There’s even a warming tent where you can enjoy your food and drink, rest your feet, and mingle with the other market folks. Don’t forget to visit Santa and the huge Christmas tree for terrific photo opps. There also are special events and musical performances at various times, so check the website schedule to see what’s happening and when.
Steins and more steins!
The Christkindlmarket opens the weekend before Thanksgiving and runs through December 24th. Admission is free. They often open multiple locations in the Chicagoland area. Be sure to check their website for the latest information.
THE QUICK BITE: Experience a European Christmas market in Chicago at the Christkindlmarket in Daley Plaza. Wander around the market full of tasty food, drinks, and beautiful holiday gifts.
Food Travelist was thrilled to interview travel expert Samantha Brown to learn about her favorite food travel memories, where she still wants to travel, and what food travel trends we can expect in the months ahead. Known for her cheerful personality and practical tips, Samantha Brown also knows a lot about food! We had a chance to catch up with her while she was on a visit in Vermont. Check out this video of Samantha Brown’s food travel insights.
Samantha Brown on Food Travel Interview Transcript
Read below for the transcript of our interview with Samantha Brown.
1.You travel to many different parts of the world. Tell us a little about what places have surprised you with great food.
I guess the place that really knocked my socks off was Thailand. Just being in Bangkok, I loved it and it was the food carts. The thing I love about food carts is that they were owned by generations of families. Four, five, and six generations of families where made one or two different items every single day and done that their entire lives for five generations. So you would wait in line and pay like three American dollars and you would get this plate, just like a paper plate and it wasn’t dressed nicely or looked fancy, but it tasted like the most luxurious meal you have ever had and again just like I said knocked your socks off. All the flavors were there and you spent two dollars I love when I can just be on the streets, eating street food with the locals and not shelling out $50-$70 per person for a great meal and that’s what I really loved about Bangkok.
2.What destination have you not yet been to but would like to visit and why?
Wow – I have not been to so many places, I think that one of the biggest misconceptions about me is that I have been everywhere and I have been to 51 countries and I have traveled for 15 years, but the world keeps getting bigger, not smaller. Places I would love to go to, I would love to go to Finland to see the Aurora Borealis, that’s my dream. I would love to go to Glaciers National Park in Montana to go on a bike ride. Things like that, I love being active, I love being in the outdoors. I don’t necessarily like sleeping in outdoors, I still need that nice resort to keep me warm at night, but I love those far-flung destinations that exist even in our own country.
3.What undiscovered destination would you recommend?
Well, it really has to be South East Asia that is the mecca of food. It is possibly a little expensive to get there about a $1,200 flight, but once you get there everything is petty cash cheap. You can go to Malaysia and have some of the best food of your life. On the island of Penang where there is not only a Muslim influence but Asian, Chinese, and Indian and it’s a confluence of flavors and dishes, and for very little money just change your idea of what food should taste like especially from a cart or roadside stand.
4.What is one of your favorite food travel memories?
I have so many, again if I may use Asia, I was in Singapore and I had fish head curry and I’m not the Andrew Zimmern of the Travel Channel, he has bizarre food. I like to stick to the chicken tenders, well not that bad but a part of the dinner was for the guest of honor to have the eye of the fish and this eye was probably this big and it’s the cooked eye of a fish. And everyone is watching me because they know as a Westerner that probably this is not my favorite experience that I was going to have and I put it in my mouth and I just waited. I had this large eye in my mouth and everyone is watching and it just dissolved and it tasted like butter and the flavors of the curry were mixed in and it was sensational. I loved it and I said “Well there is another eye right?” because don’t fish have two eyes? But as the guest you only get one eye, but it’s always taught me that we have a reaction to food like “Oh, we don’t eat that” and then you try it and it’s wonderful so it was one of my best experiences where I really got to try something that I would never try again, but I really enjoyed at the time.
5.Do you see any trends in culinary travel?
I think I see the biggest trend being one that I love is to make really great food accessible to the masses. Why do we have to stand in line at a really nice restaurant or not get in because we don’t have an expense account for the best chefs? These food trucks that are happening all over the United States are such a great way to have a little bite and really get a feel for something special. So I love the idea that I love when food is accessible and still really fabulous at the same time and I think that even though the food truck is a trend, it is here to stay.
Travel Expert, Samantha Brown
We want to thank Samantha Brown for her time and thoughtful responses.
Thanks, Samantha! We wish you safe and tasty food travels.
Let us know what some of your favorite food travel memories are in the comments below.
THE QUICK BITE:Food Travelist interviews travel expert Samantha Brown about her food travel experiences and what trends she sees coming in the months ahead.
San Jose is a destination that may not be on your bucket list but you should find your way there because it’s definitely a place to explore for good food, wine and lots to do.
I recently was invited to visit San Jose by Team San Jose. I was not financially compensated for my review. All opinions and experiences are my own.
When I first found out I was going to San Jose I couldn’t stop singing the song “Do you know the way to San Jose” by Dionne Warwick. It was an “earworm” that I just couldn’t get out of my mind.
I have to admit that as I landed at the San Jose Airport I was still humming the song. When I told people I was going to San Jose and asked if they “knew the way,” they would just look at me. This is a vintage generational Burt Bacharach song from 1968. Clearly, only people “of a certain age” would be familiar with the song. Arriving in San Jose I was surprised that the airport is only a few minutes from downtown which makes visiting very convenient.
California is such a remarkable state to visit. I’m certain you could spend a year or more exploring all the different climates and beauties of the Golden State. San Jose is a quick 45-minute drive from San Francisco and an hour from Monterey. 300 days of sunshine every year make San Jose a terrific place to visit just about any time. Here are some things to do in San Jose.
Go for the Food
San Jose restaurants certainly have plenty of choices when it comes to delicious cuisine. A go-to destination for busy Silicon Valley foodies, it’s a sure bet that whether you’re seeking award-winning restaurants or casual market dining San Jose has it all.
Salad Nicoise at the Left Bank in San Jose
For a lovely Sunday brunch, you can try out the classic Parisian brasserie The Left Bank on Santana Row in San Jose. Whether you choose to sit outside sipping an aperitif and people-watch on the busy shopping strip or cuddle up inside you’ll find the menu classic French. You can stop in for lunch, dinner, or their busy Sunday brunch.
San Pedro Square Market in San Jose
San Pedro Square Market is a food court on steroids. Although you can get the usual food court tastes like pizza, hot dogs, and burgers, don’t expect the food to be predictable. The vendors are vast and offer a wide array of foods and dishes for every palate. Dine inside or outside in the relaxing courtyard that offers live music on the weekends.
A Little Portugal
Go to this part of town, Little Portugal, if you want to feel like you’ve been transported to Portugal. This little enclave is full of Portuguese immigrants who have lived here for generations. Stop by Popular Bakery for an authentic pastel de nada or other Portuguese sweet.
Adega Restaurant is the first Michelin-starred restaurant in San Jose that is owned by a Portuguese family. “Adega” means winery in Portuguese so you know you can expect a good wine list, too.
Don’t forget the Wine
It’s no surprise that San Jose has many wineries and vineyards to visit just a short drive away. There are lovely small wineries ready and waiting for you to try. They offer tasty wines and most have breathtaking mountain views.
Winery Views
There are so many lovely wineries to choose from, plan on spending at least a couple of days exploring different vineyards and learning about the wine. There are several varietals, including Pinotage from Loma Prieta Vineyards, that are unique to the region. You’re bound to discover something you like during your explorations.
Picchetti Brothers Winery
Save Time for Some Terrific Entertainment
Santana Row
Santana Row is the “Rodeo Drive” of San Jose. The busy strip offers luxury shopping and fine dining but there’s plenty of casual dining as well. It’s an easy walking area with plenty going on. From outdoor yoga classes to live concerts, this area is residential, retail, and entertainment combined.
From Tesla to H&M, the many exciting retailer shops make exploring the latest fashion trends and gourmet goodies easy and fun. You’ll also find plenty of nightlife with clubs and restaurants serving Silicon Valley’s latest tech stars.
Hotel Valencia on Santana Row
If you’re looking for an ideal location for a hotel stay, the Hotel Valencia on Santana Row is beautiful and has gorgeous accommodations, a spa, a swimming pool, restaurants, and bars all at your service for a relaxing stay.
Hotel Valencia has lovely appointed rooms.
A courtyard view and a comfy leather chair at the Hotel Valencia made my stay just perfect for my weekend wine getaway.
Winchester Mystery House
A few steps away from Santana Row is the famous Winchester Mystery House. Whether you’re an architecture buff or fascinated by mysteries you’ll want to visit the Winchester House, a 160-room mansion built by Sarah Winchester wife of William Winchester inventor of the Winchester repeating rifle. Many secret rooms, stories of ghosts, and odd mysteries are all explored on tours of this one-of-a-kind mansion.
Mountain Winery Concert
If you love music be sure to check out the Mountain Winery. Live concerts, wine, and food are all part of this outdoor music scene. Listening to music under the stars in the mountains just doesn’t get any better than this.
Paper Plane is bustling and fun.
San Jose has all the entertainment you’d expect for the tenth-largest city in the United States. Whether it’s opera, ballet, theater, sports, nightclubs, or comedy clubs – they have them all.
If you want to learn more about San Jose check out the comprehensive website sanjose.org.
THE QUICK BITE: San Jose, in sunny California, is a perfect destination to explore a beautiful wine country, terrific food choices and many cultural and entertainment options.
Fall is my favorite time of year. Road trips can be especially fun as you see all the dazzling leaves putting on their full colorful display during your travels. This fall we decided to take a trip up to visit Traverse City, Michigan restaurants, and taste some of the delicious food.
We were recently the guests of the Grand Traverse Resort and Spa. We were not financially compensated for our visit or a review. All opinions are our own and based on our experiences.
Those of us who follow the foodie scene know that Traverse City has become one of the Midwest’s top culinary tourism destinations. We made the trip from Chicago to Traverse City in a little more than 4 hours with one stop. Your timing will depend on how long and how many times you choose to stop along the way.
Anna’s House in Grand Rapids, Michigan
Road Trip Stop
We left early in the morning and went to brunch at Anna’s House in Grand Rapids. They’re open 6 am to 2 pm daily. Anna’s has two locations. We stopped at the newer location on Beltline Road and it was an easy off and on the highway for our trip. The breakfast was big and good. Anna’s focuses on fresh local and seasonal ingredients.
Happily, fall pumpkin pancakes and hot apple cider were on the menu during our visit. Anna’s is clearly a local favorite as there was a line outside the Sunday morning we arrived, but it moved quickly and we only waited about 15 minutes. Portions are generous so if you’re not super hungry go ahead and split something – you’ll be just fine.
Right Brain Brewery in Traverse City
Quench Your Thirst
When we arrived in Traverse City we were quite thirsty so our first stop was one of the best breweries in Traverse City, the Right Brain Brewery. They made us feel right at home as we settled in with our beer sampler. You have to know that Michigan is loaded with many terrific micro-breweries and Traverse City has an embarrassingly large amount of excellent choices. But we have a special fondness for the head brewer here and would recommend you pay them a visit if you’re in the area. Their creative menu of waffles and snacks intrigued us as well. As for the brew, well we really enjoyed all the beer we tasted but had a special fondness for the Northern Hawk Owl, a medium-bodied amber ale, and the Chubby Squirrel their seasonal spiced amber ale. Lucky for us we were even able to purchase some of the Northern Hawk Owl to take back home, which we did!
The Wolverine Course at Grand Traverse Resort & Spa
Grand Traverse Resort & Spa
We then made our way to the Grand Traverse Resort & Spa. The resort really is like a city unto itself. Located on 900 acres of rolling hillside the beautiful scenery makes for a relaxing stay. The main lobby leads to the Marketplace. A great place to pick up coffee, a snack or a freshly baked goodie. It’s one-stop shopping if you don’t want to make the trek into town. The Grand Traverse has many amenities that include three golf courses, indoor and outdoor tennis, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, beach access, a great spa, excellent dining, and more. The resort is perfect for a girls’ weekend, golf getaways, weddings and meetings, and a wonderful retreat for any time of year.
Sunset at the Aerie Restaurant at Grand Traverse Resort & Spa
More Traverse City Food
We had the chance to dine at the Aerie Restaurant, located on the 16th floor of the tower building. We had a perfect window view of the setting sun on Traverse Bay as we sipped our cocktails and unwound from the day on the road. Our server, Jen made sure we had everything we needed for a perfect relaxed dining experience.
Smoked Trout Crostini from Aerie Restaurant in Grand Traverse Resort & Spa
We started with a smoked trout salad crostini that featured smoked trout, red onion, celery, capers, rice vinegar, fresh lemon juice, black pepper, first-press olive, and pesto oil atop crunchy crostini. We simply loved this starter.
Pork Chop and Smoked Cheddar Potato Tower at Aerie Restaurant in Grand Traverse Resort
Another favorite was the marinated two-bone pork chop smothered in house-made BBQ sauce. The smoked cheddar redskin potato tower – yes, a cheesy potato tower – made a perfect pairing.
We also sampled the pan-seared scallops and honey-herb glazed chicken with celeriac mashed potatoes. Everything was quite well-prepared and delicious.
The Aerie also has an extensive dessert and dessert wine menu sure to please every palate. We tried the chocolate bananas foster, which was a deconstructed bananas foster, and the cherry toffee pudding featuring Michigan’s finest cherries.
After a good night’s sleep, we headed off to the spa for a little pampering with an hour-long massage, just what the doctor ordered. The spa has all the services you would want from massage and hydrotherapy to nail and hair care services.
Don’t Miss A Thing
We headed into town next and as we suspected Traverse City food had well more available than the two days’ worth of eating and exploring that we had planned. The “downtown” strip is loaded with cute shops, restaurants, and bars that can make the adventure fun and leisurely. Follow along with our helpful Traverse City restaurant guide at the bottom of the page for more ideas.
Dining in Traverse City restaurants includes white fish sandwiches to Italian cuisine, Mediterranean eateries, and everything in between, this place truly is a foodie’s heaven. The townspeople are super friendly and easily recommend more places for you to explore. They do seem to support one other and their foodie culture generously, and that’s great for visitors like us too.
Tasting the local wine, cider and spirits of Traverse City food is a trip all by itself. The nearby Leelanau Peninsula has many wineries and a local dairy to taste test.
Moomers Ice Cream, the dairy is right behind me
Don’t Miss The Ice Cream
What caps off any foodie destination? A sweet ending, of course. We had to experience the famous MOOmers Ice Cream voted “America’s Best Scoop” on Good Morning America. Moomers Homemade Ice Cream makes over 120 flavors and has over 20 unique flavors available daily. I chose the Cherries Moobilee which has black cherry-flavored ice cream with chunks of black sweet cherries, chocolate fudge swirl, and chunks of brownies. It was ice cream perfection! As I sat there enjoying my homemade cone and ice cream somehow knowing that the Plummer family (proprietors of Moomers) use cream from their own Moomers Farm Creamery and dairy farm right behind me made it all taste that much better.
All and all, Traverse City was a wonderful local fall trip. The only downside was that we wish we had more time to experience more of the food, wine, and spirits the area has to offer. Another trip for Traverse City food will definitely be in our future sooner than later.
Just some of the places to find the best food in Traverse City:
Grand Traverse Resort & Spa This amenity-filled resort has everything you could want. Ask for a high-floor room for a spectacular view.
Moomers Ice Cream A must-stop that’s a little out of town but well worth it for delicious homemade ice cream.
Poppycock’s Restaurant is Terrific new American cuisine that has a great vibe and features martinis & jazz on Friday’s. We also loved the artwork in the restaurant.
Northern Natural Cider House Organic hard cider spot. This is a great place to rest your feet in downtown Traverse City and relax with some yummy cider.
Right Brain Brewery Go taste what is brewing up at this Traverse City treasure, you won’t be disappointed. Chat up with the locals on what they’re drinking.
Grand Traverse Pie Company Get a slice of one of their cherry pies. You’ll dream about it for days. We also love the doing good and giving back karma of their second “community” store that gives profits to community good.
The Village Grand Traverse Commons A former asylum turned into a shopping, winery, and restaurant space. They’ve maintained the historic buildings and created a unique environment for tourists and locals to shop.
Traverse City Any Time of the Year
Traverse City is a year-round destination. Summer includes water sports, hiking, and farmer’s markets. Fall has beautiful scenery and harvest time. Winter has snow sports like snowshoeing, snowmobiles, and spas. Year-round you get the great tastes of Traverse City. Whenever you visit be sure to check the dates and times that all businesses are open. This is a seasonal tourist city. Most shops are open year-round but check ahead to avoid disappointment.
THE QUICK BITE: Food in Traverse City should not be missed. If you’re looking for a quick weekend trip in the Midwest this is a place you will enjoy for its great variety of food, beer, wine, and fun.
I was recently invited to review the Moleskine Voyageur. I was not financially compensated for this review. The opinions shared are my own based on the experience I had.
Everybody knows Moleskine and most people love to use their notebooks for writing journals or sketches. But I have to admit that I don’t keep a journal when traveling. Most people who know me know that I capture a lot of my travels on social media. When I saw the new Moleskine Voyageur and learned there was a social component I was intrigued.
Moleskin Voyageur
The Moleskine Voyageur is much the same as some of the other Moleskin notebooks but this one has many additional features that make it a perfect traveling companion. Here are a few of the nifty highlights of the Voyageur:
The canvas cover holds up well during travel, but doesn’t add much additional weight
Perfect size to fit easily into your backpack or purse
Handy back pocket to keep important documents, receipts, etc.
The back of the paper band is an I AM HERE sign that is great to use for selfies
Detachable checklists, packing lists, and to-do lists
World map with time zones
Stickers to highlight items throughout your journal
Moleskine Voyageur Accessories
You can take the “I Am Here” band selfie, add it to the Moleskine Around The World Flickr group and use the #m_iamhere hashtag to track other Voyaeur users.
Adventures In Cuba
I have to admit that it was fun to get my selfie taken by someone else, which might not technically make it a selfie but does help start a great conversation. Another unique feature is that you can print out itineraries and content from anywhere in the exact Voyageur dimensions using the MSK2 online tools. You can paste them in the journal or stick them in the back pocket.
No matter where you are, there you are.
This picture was taken after about 12 hours stuck in the Havana airport – but that’s a whole other story! I have to admit that although I’m a travel writer, I hardly ever actually physically “write.” While I was in Cuba I was reading quite a bit about Ernest Hemingway and I thought it was interesting that in his early years, Hemingway wrote in longhand. In this age of technology, that’s almost unheard of. What’s more, people’s penmanship is horrible. Schools are wondering if they should even teach “handwriting” anymore. Hemingway also wrote standing up at his typewriter, lending authority to the belief that the new new thing – stand-up desks – has actually been around quite a long time.
We had the opportunity to tour Hemingway’s house in San Francisco de Paula and it was definitely a highlight of my visit to Cuba.
The infamous Hemingway fishing boat the Pilar
Regardless of current fads and fashions, I have to admit that I rather liked actually writing down my thoughts on paper. Cuba is an amazing country and it was impossible to capture everything with photos. Also, since the Internet was unavailable, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter posts, which are easy way to share quick bites, were not an option.
Hemingway’s office in the Havana suburb of San Francisco de Paula
I enjoyed writing my thoughts down and made it a ritual at the end of every day. Remembering all the faces, tastes and experiences made me go back and examine how I felt as opposed to what I expected, an interesting comparison. I also took notes throughout the day to jog my memory when I would later write more detailed stories. I know a lot of people now take notes on their tablets or phones and I do too. But writing notes down by hand seemed to give them more importance and they stuck in my brain.
In this fast-paced, sometimes stressful world, it seemed like a nice reward to take the time to write down my thoughts, draw a few sketches (sometimes I completely forget that I was an art major in college! How is that possible?), and then return to them later and relive the experience all over again.
Next month I’ll be using the journal on my trip to Nevis, another island that I’m sure will be a unique experience. Be sure to check out the Moleskine Voyageur and all its features at Moleskine.com. You might just rediscover how much you love writing.
THE QUICK BITE: If you’re looking for a way to capture your travel memories both in writing and electronically you should check out the new Moleskine Voyageur. You can write, sketch and share your travels with the Moleskine Voyageur travel community.
We recently had a chance to tour Devon Avenue, Chicago’s own Little India with Anupy Singla, author of Indian for Everyone. If you live in Chicago you already know that it’s loaded with many ethnic neighborhoods – Italian, German, Chinese, Puerto Rican, Polish, we have it all. If you haven’t visited Devon Avenue’s Little India you should take the time to visit. It not only has many wonderful Indian restaurants but is also filled with shops carrying all sorts of Indian delights from spices to jewelry and more.
Diana Laskaris with Anupy Singla
The first stop on our tour was the fantastic Patel Brothers market. This is a huge store loaded with everything that you might need to make a perfect Indian meal and then some.
Patel Brothers Aisles of Goodies
The aisles are wide and they carry many items that you wouldn’t find anywhere less comprehensive for Indian cuisine.
Patel Brothers Fresh Produce
Fresh produce is available in abundance. Many fresh spices, fruits and vegetables can be found, including Indian eggplants and bitter melon.
Patel Brothers SWAD brand spices
They also package their own spices, providing reasonably priced versions of those often used in authentic Indian cuisine.
Indian Snacks
And there are plenty of snacks, both savory and sweet for that quick bit of Indian flavors on the go.
Fresh Pomegranates
Our knowledgeable guide Anupy even showed us how to pick fresh ingredients, like choosing the best pomegranates.
Kamdar Plaza Snack Bar
We then had a chance to visit Kamdar Plaza, well-known for having the tastiest authentic Indian snacks. Known as a place that people come for Indian “fast food,” Kamdar supplied us with several treats to check out on our visit.
Samosas
We enjoyed some plump and crispy samosas.
Chickpea stew
And some warm and satisfying chickpea stew.
Aloo Tikki – Spicy Potato Patties
The potato patties were spicy, with a perfect blend of crisp exterior and soft inside.
Barfi – Indian Dessert
And we tasted some of Indian sweets, like Barfi, an Indian dessert with a funny name but delicately sweet flavor perfect for ending our meal.
We learned a lot on our visit to Devon Avenue in Chicago and from our tour guide Anupy. Mostly we learned that Indian food is not as intimidating as it may first seem. Many of the spices can be bought in prepared blends and delicious chutneys can be added in various combinations to create the tastes that you most enjoy. We even tried our hand at making some Bhel Puri, a dish we tasted and fell in love with at Kamdar. And it was pretty good for a first try! We’ll definitely be testing out more recipes, especially those in Anupy’s latest cookbook, Indian for Everyone.
To get you started, here’s one of her recipes from Indian for Everyone that you can try for yourself.
Sookhi Dal (Dry, Spiced Lentils)
Sookhi Dal
In the Punjabi home, this dried version of soupy lentils is eaten with unleavened bread and a curry on the side. I tend to use it as my favorite filling for a wrap or pita on days when we just can’t think of anything else to make for dinner. I often buy mini pitas and stuff them with this dry lentil dish for my kids’ lunches.
Yield: 7 cups / 1.7 L
Tools: You’ll need a heavy-bottomed, 6-quart / 6-L (or larger) stockpot or Dutch oven with a lid and an 8-inch / 20-cm frying pan.
Ingredients:
2 cups / 420 g duhli moong dal (dried, split, and skinned green dal), picked over and washed (they look yellow)
3 cassia or bay leaves
2 whole cloves
1 (3-inch/ 8-cm) stick cinnamon
3 whole dried red chiles
½ teaspoon turmeric powder
3 cups / 710 mL water
3 Tablespoons / 45 mL ghee or vegetable oil
1 pinch hing (asafetida)
1 teaspoon cumin seeds
1 medium yellow or red onion, diced
2 teaspoons plus 1 pinch salt, divided
1 Tablespoon grated or minced ginger
3 cloves garlic, peeled and minced or grated
4 fresh Thai, serrano, or cayenne chiles, stems removed and chopped
1 teaspoon amchur (dried mango powder)
1 teaspoon Garam Masala
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon red chile powder or cayenne pepper
Juice of ½ lemon
½ cup / 10 g fresh cilantro, minced
Roti or Naan for serving (optional)
Tortilla wrap or pita, for serving (optional)
Hummus, for serving (optional)
Chopped onion, tomatoes, lettuce, and avocado, for garnish (optional)
Directions:
1. Combine the dal, cassia leaves, cloves, cinnamon, dried chiles, turmeric, and water in a heavy-bottomed, 6-quart / 6-L (or larger) stockpot or Dutch oven over medium–high heat and bring to a boil. Typically, a frothy film will form over the dal as they boil—just skim off and discard it.
2. Reduce the heat to medium–low and simmer, partially covered, for 11 minutes. Remove from the heat, cover completely, and set aside for 5 minutes, allowing the dal to absorb the extra moisture.
3. Carefully remove and discard the whole spices. Stir gently. The dal should be al dente—firm, but cooked through. Cover and set aside to cool slightly while you prep the remaining ingredients.
4. In an 8-inch / 20-cm frying pan over medium–high heat, warm the ghee. Add the hing and cumin seeds and cook for 40 seconds, until the cumin seeds sizzle and turn reddish-brown.
5. Add the onion and the pinch of salt to the frying pan. Cook for 2 minutes, until slightly browned. Add the ginger and garlic and cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute.
6. Add the fresh chiles, amchur, Garam Masala, coriander, and red chile powder. Cook for 5 to 10 seconds and remove from the heat.
7. Transfer the contents of the frying pan to the stockpot containing the dal. Add the remaining 2 teaspoons of salt, the lemon juice, and the cilantro and stir carefully, taking care not to break down the dal too much.
8. Serve traditionally, with the Roti or Naan, or as a wrap in a tortilla or stuffed in a pita smeared with a little hummus and garnished with the onion, tomatoes, lettuce, and avocado.
Recipe & photo reprinted with permission from Indian for Everyone by Anupy Singla, Agate Surrey, October 2014.
THE QUICK BITE: Take a trip down Devon Avenue, Chicago’s own Little India, with us and author Anupy Singla. Then try out a recipe from her latest cookbook Indian for Everyone.
If you like wandering around cities looking for quick bites then street food around the world is definitely for you! We love to explore all the places we visit on foot. There truly is no better way to really get to know a city, the people and the culture. One of the added benefits is sniffing your way down the streets trying to find your next tasty treat.
We thought we would take you on a quick tour around some of the places we’ve explored and the street food we’ve sampled. This is by no means a definitive list. Just about any destination’s street food is worth finding and exploring. Let us know what you’ve found and enjoyed in the comments below!
Street Food Around The World
Istanbul, Turkey
Simit in Istanbul
Istanbul is full of smells and sights to entice every wandering visitor. For a quick snack a simit is a terrific treat. The crusty outside loaded with sesame seeds reveals a flaky tender inside. Pick one up as you wander around the Grand Bazaar to fight off any hunger pains.
Beijing, China
Night Market in Beijing
The Donghuamen Night Market in Beijing is legendary for having everything you can imagine on a stick and ready to be eaten cooked, raw and even still moving. If you’re not an adventurous eater, rest assured you can also get traditional seafood and rice bowl options as well.
Sweet potatoes roasting in Beijing
Even on the back streets of the Beijing hutongs (alley ways) you’ll find vendors roasting delicious sweet potatoes or beautifully carving pineapples for passersby to enjoy.
Singapore
Street Food Around the World Singapore Street Food
Singapore’s hawkers, or street food vendors, are known all over the world. Seafood, vegetables, rice dishes – there are so many choices it will make your head spin! While you will want to visit for all the fine shopping in Singapore, don’t miss the chance to try one of the best selections of street food in the world.
Kiev, Ukaraine
Kiev Street Food
On the fast paced streets of Kiev just outside the train terminals there are plenty of food kiosks for the hungry traveler. Whether you’re picking up shawarma, a sausage or other local fare you’ll also see some U.S. favorites like Coca-Cola to go with it.
Havana, Cuba
Sweet Havana Ice Cream
On our recent visit to Cuba we learned that Cubans love their sweets, especially ice cream! The ice cream in Havana is creamy and super sweet. You can see lots of people walking around enjoying the easy-to-carry cones wherever they go.
Brussels, Belgium
Belgium Waffles in Brussels
We have to admit that this is one of our all-time favorites! Nobody does Belgium waffles like the folks in Brussels. Besides, where could you go to get this wonderful street treat and walk a few steps to see the amazing Brussels pee boy? Fully-loaded like this one, with fruit, fudge and whipped cream, it’s worth the stop either way.
Rio De Janeiro, Brazil
Enjoying fresh coconuts on Cobacabana Beach
Sun-kissed beach bums and beautiful girls in tiny bikinis aren’t the only thing on the beaches in Rio. There are lots of places to sit and enjoy the view. How about icy cold coconut water straight from a fresh coconut? Can’t think of a tastier and more healthy drink on a hot day.
Germany
The pretzel lady at Oktoberfest.
Sure everybody goes to Munich for the beer. Just don’t forget the delicious giant Bavarian style soft pretzels and yummy sausages of every flavor and length. It’s a beer AND food festival, after all.
Sharing a sausage “selfie” at a Chriskrindlmarket.
Paris, France
Crepes in Paris
You can’t walk very far in Paris without seeing a pedestrian quickly walking to their next stop with a baguette or a sandwich. We’re certain that’s how the French stay so thin – they’re always moving. We love all the breads, croissants and sweets you’ll see on display along the sidewalks in Paris, but a freshly made crepe with ham and cheese or Nutella is magnificent!
A Bit Closer to Home
New York City
New York City Halal Food Truck
You can’t pass by a busy NYC corner without seeing a Halal cart. Everyone has their personal favorite. We’re not sharing ours because it’s busy enough as it is, with the line often winding well around the corner. Chicken and rice one of the most-loved street foods you’ll find in the Big Apple. Some folks even try to make it at home, but nothing beats the warm delicious street food fresh from the source itself.
Tucson, Arizona
Las-Michoacanos-Sonoran-Dog
One of the treats of visiting Tucson, Arizona is trying the local specialty, a Sonoran Dog. Does a hot dog wrapped in bacon topped with fresh tomatoes, onions, mayonnaise, mustard and Jalepeno pepper sauce in a lobster roll pocket-style bun sound good to you? If it does, then you’ll love the unique local contribution to street food – a genuine Sonoran Dog!
THE QUICK BITE: There’s no better way to explore a city than to try its Street Food. Here’s our quick journey to some of our favorites.
We were recently invited to sample the Bastille Day menu at The Peninsula Chicago. We were not financially compensated and all opinions expressed are our own.
Happy Bastille Day!
Viva la France! We will use just about any excuse to celebrate France and especially French cuisine. Bastille Day, July 14th is no exception. Bastille Day celebrates French National Day and remembers theFête de la Fédération, which was formed after a year of political struggle in France. Celebrations and parties are held throughout France and around the world.
Peninsula Chicago Pierrot Gourmet Bastille Day
We recently had the opportunity to taste some of the offerings for the Bastille Day menu at the Pierrot Gourmet at The Peninsula in Chicago. Needless to say our appetite for all things French was certainly whetted by the delicious menu constructed by Executive Chef Mike Wehrle and Executive Pastry Chef Dimitri Fayard.
Salad Lyonnaise Pierrot Gourmet
The classic Salad Lyonnais was a perfect start. The lardons were generously abundant and both crunchy and chewy while the champagne vinaigrette was light and tangy.
Bouchot Mussels Petite Gourmet
My personal favorite was the Bouchot Mussels prepared with Pernod, fennel, and fine herbs and served with crunchy country French bread. We were served a tasting portion but we saw the entree portion and it was very ample. The mussels were bathed in a delicious broth worthy of sopping up with crispy toasted bread. Don’t waste a drop.
Short Rib Bourguignon Pierrot Gourmet
Another classic French dish, the Short Rib Bourguignon with cipollini, confit potatoes, and carrots, was an excellent choice as well. The short rib melted in your mouth along with the rich winey sauce.
Trio of Desserts Pierrot Gourmet
The pièce de résistance of course is the desserts. We tried three beauties. Mousse Chocolat Facon Grand-Mere featuring dark chocolate mousse, topped with vanilla bean ice cream, Tarte Tatin with carmelized apple tart, puff pastry, and creme fraiche, and Flan Parisien cooked custard tart with caramel sauce. Make sure you leave room to try at least one of these delightful desserts.
French Martini at The Bar in The Peninsula Chicago
When you’re done with dinner take a quick elevator ride up to The Bar in The Peninsula Chicago for an intimate quiet libation in this country club-type setting. This bar is sure to please anyone you host. Whether you’re entertaining a new sweetie or a hard-to-impress client, they will not be disappointed.
Peninsula Chicago All Things French
The Peninsula Paris
The Peninsula’s Bastille Day menu runs through August 14th. If you want to continue your Francophile cravings, all The Peninsula Hotels will be celebrating the opening of their The Peninsula Paris in August 2014 with the theme “All Things French”. From a French-inspired afternoon tea, and “Chocolate at the Pen” you are certain to find the perfect way to celebrate the French in style.
The Peninsula Paris Terrace tea
Planning a trip to Paris? Champagne overlooking the Sacre Couer sounds spectacular to me! We can’t wait to visit the latest The Peninsula location. We had the good fortune to stay at The Peninsula in Beijing and all we can say is that we were completely spoiled by the staff, food, and accommodations. Be sure to consider The Penisula for your next trip.
THE QUICK BITE: Happy Bastille Day! Celebrate at The Peninsula Chicago with a classic French menu deliciously prepared and served in a French bistro style. Enjoy your scrumptious dinner indoors or out. Don’t miss the latest The Peninsula in Paris!
When the thermometer starts to rise we all yearn to be on the road with family and friends. We dream of the beach, the pool, BBQs, picnics and all that summer fun. Before you hit the road, check out our summer travel and tips to make your summer adventures as good as they can be!
Summer Travel Tips
Plan ahead
Make your reservations early especially if you’re flying. Check on the hotels you want to stay with and check again for anything nearby that might be more economical. Optimizing your credit card miles and points will also make your dollar go a bit further. No surprise but everyone travels during the summer so make sure you leave plenty of time for airport security, lines for rental cars and unexpected weather delays. Booking the earliest flight of the day will help ensure you get to your destination that day. If you’re traveling by car be sure to check all your fluids and tires for a safe trip.
Yosemite
Visit the good old USA
Many of us have fond memories of summer vacations spend in the backseat of a station wagon with our siblings. Why not create memories for your kids with a road trip? Whether it’s just a few hours away or you make the trek to a Disney hot spot at least you’ll have something to talk about for years and years to come. We love visiting the National Parks many of them like Yosemite have phenomenal accommodations. For travelers visiting from abroad, the United States has as many different cultures within it as anywhere on Earth. Choose a city, state or region and explore it fully. There’s huge variety from food to habitat, so pick something that appeals to you and discover it’s depths. Whether you’re living in America or somewhere else, a road trip in the USA is an awesome way to dive into summer.
Ice Cream!
Pack light
Keep it simple. You’re going on a summer vacation. Leave all the fancy jewelry, clothes and shoes at home. Almost every destination expects summer travelers to be casual. Packing black jeans and solid color shirts will help you blend in with the locals rather than stick out like a tourist. Comfortable shoes should be at the top of your list. Walk everywhere and go ahead and have that house-made dessert. If you’re going on a long trip be sure to keep a few essentials in your carry-on. Your bathing suit, a spare pair of shorts and t-shirt will let you start your vacation as soon as you get off the plane!
Summer Gardens
Protect Yourself
We’re not talking the usual warnings of travel hazards like pickpockets, scams and other treacherous rip-offs that abound. We’re thinking sun and bugs. It can’t be said enough that protection from the sun rays is no longer a choice, it’s a must. Be sure to re-apply liberally if you’re in the water or working up a sweat. Summer also brings out our flying little insect friends. Not only are they pesty but some are known to carry diseases. Whether you’re using natural methods or bug spray- if you’re outdoors, especially in the dawn or dusk, be sure to use them and keep those buggers away.
Picnic in Vienna
Woodward Dream Cruise
Summer foods and festivals
Many places, small and large, love to celebrate the warm weather with festivities outside. A simple picnic basket might be the best meal of the week paired with a free outdoor concert with friends. Do some quick investigating and you’ll be surprised at how many events are going on and how many are free or very low cost. Setting up a chair on the Avenue of Michigan’s Woodward Dream Cruise is a dream for car lovers. Even setting up a quick simple on your deck or in your backyard will create a vacation-like atmosphere easily & fast.
Summer Dining
Pierogi Fest
Wherever you live and wherever you want to travel, summertime is a great time to explore the great outdoors. Train, boat, plane, hike, bike, swim, or just have a picnic at a nearby park. Celebrate summer and keep these tips in mind to make the most out of whatever your plans.
THE QUICK BITE: Summer Trips and Tips will have you planning, packing, eating, and hitting the road in style.
