ABC Brickworks | Singapore

Built in 1974 in Bukit Merah, ABC Brickworks is one of the longest running Market & Food Centres. Some say it’s named after Archipelago Brewery Company, the first commercial brewery in Singapore which was located nearby.

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Fatty Cheong #01-120
If you’re after char siew, make a beeline for Fatty Cheong! Chan Tuck Cheong opened his stall in 1992, specialising in roast and barbecue meats - char siew, roast pork belly and roast duck. The char siew is cooked in a charcoal oven and served with a sweet and sticky gravy. Bu jian tian translates to ‘roast pork that doesn’t see the sky’, Fatty Cheong uses this tender under arm cut and its lean meat and fat ratio is what sets his char siew apart. Order with rice or wanton noodles.

Jason Penang Cuisine #01-113
After working as a chef to the British High Commissioner for over a decade, Jason Khaw wanted to go back to his Penang roots. He opened this hawker stall with his wife to showcase traditional dishes of his homeland. The Penang assam laksa is worth lining up for.

Jin Jin Hot / Cold Dessert #01-20 is known for its durian mango ice aka Gangster Ice (it’s trademarked btw) and Power Chendol, an ice chendol topped with a syrupy gula melaka with pandan jelly and beans. The new owners revived this institution and its now one of the most popular ice kacang and cendol spots. Jin Jin was closed so I went to Heng Heng Hot & Cold Dessert #01-146 where the couple have been running this dessert stall for over 30 years. I ordered the Durian Mango Ice 🍧🥭

Wow Wow West #01-133
This ‘Western food done local’ stall had a constant stream of customers lining up for its famous Chicken Chop. It’s slathered in housemade black pepper sauce and served with a selection of sides including coleslaw, fries, baked beans (canned of course) and pork cheese sausages.

Next time I’ll try…
Bao Zai #01-135
Sadly Bao Zai was closed this time (open Fri - Tues 11am - 7pm). Uncle Leong has been hand making bao for over 50 years. You’ve got to try big bao with pork and egg, char siew bao and red bean bao. 
Yuguo Curry Rice: 6 Jalan Bukit Merah, #01-136
Yuan Yuan Claypot Rice #01-38
Ah Er Soup #01-143

Chinatown Complex Food Centre | Singapore

Chinatown Complex Food Centre is Singapore’s largest hawker centre with over 260 stalls. The building is over 35 years old and was renovated in 2019.

You can tick many of Singapore’s top stalls off here and it’s home to many hard to find snacks. Settle in 🥢🥢

It’s really easy to get lost in this huge complex so take a photo of the stall map near the elevators and remember which coloured zone you are in.

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Lian He Ben Ji Claypot #02-198/199
It’s open Fri to Wed from 4.30pm. This Michelin Bib Gourmand is very popular so get there early as you could be waiting! Traditional clay pot served in charcoal stoves with chicken on the bone, lap cheong and salted fish. Add soy and plenty of oil.

Crispy Rojak #02-195
This stall had a constant stream of locals. Very good Rojak made to order. The acid cut right through claypot so a nice addition. Loved the branding!

Smith Street Taps #02-062
This was one of the first craft-beer bars in Singapore and opened in 2014. You’ll find 20 taps of local and international crafties.

Mikkeller #02-058
Smith Street Taps collaborated with Mikkiller to open this stall right around the corner.


Shang Hai Fried Xiao Long Bao #02-
Chef Jiang (ex-Crystal Jade and Paradise Group dim sum chef) opened this stall earlier this year. The hero is Sheng Jian Bao which isn’t that common. It’s like a soup dumpling with thicker bao skin. It’s filled with pork meat and soup and the bottom is fried so you have this amazing *crunch*. Seriously good and worth the long wait!

My next time list is extensive so can’t wait to go back in December…
168 CMY Satay #02-168
Liao Fan Hong Kong Soya Sauce Chicken Rice & Noodle #02-126
Xiu Ji Ikan Bilis Yong Tau Fu #02-88
Fatty Ox HK Kitchen #02-84
Ann Chin Popiah #02-112
The 1950s Coffee Wu Shi Nian Da #02-48
Millennium Glutinous Rice #02-092
Old Amoy Cendol #02-008
Pan Ji Cooked Food #02-078
Ah Kong Wa Kuih #02-116

Maxwell Food Centre | Singapore

Maxwell Food Centre was originally a wet market and during the Japanese Occupation it housed a community kitchen for those displaced after the war. Maxwell reopened in 1987 and is home to some of the most famous hawker stalls thanks to Anthony Bourdain and Gordon Ramsay.

Here’s what we ate

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Chicken Rice at Tian Tian and Ah Tai

There’s even a doco about the war between Tian Tian and Ah Tai chicken rice stalls. Ah Tai was the head cook at Tian Tian for 20 years and set out on his own in 2012 (he couldn’t get along when the daughter took over). Thanks to Bourdain and its Michelin star, Tian Tian always has a long line. Ah Tai is four stalls away. Grab a green plate from Tian Tian ($5) and blue from Ah Tai ($3.50) and see for yourself.

Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice #01-10/11

Ah-Tai Hainanese Chicken Rice #01-07

China Street Fritters #01-64
Famous for its ngoh hiang fritters, this second generation stall has been running for over 80 years. Sadly the third generation won’t be taking over and with plans to retire, they listed the famed recipe for S$1 million. Sadly no buyers, but the stall continues to operate. We tried ngor hiong, egg slice, guan chang and ter kwa roll (pork liver roll) with Hokkien-style bee hoon.

Jin Hua Fish Soup #01-77
This one’s on the list for next time. This stall has been running for over 20 years with people lining up for its signature Fried Fish Meat Noodles with a rich milky base.

Ren Min #01-33
Fun fact, the founder’s first name is Manbeer and Ren Min originally opened as 3rd Culture Brewing Co back in 2016. Now Ren Min has two locations, one here at Maxwell and Old Airport Road. Pouring craft beers from its 12 taps an plenty of tins in the fridge. Find the tap list on Untappd.

Ah Gong Minced Pork Noodle #01-02
This stall recently made headlines for its $2.50 Bak Chor Mee. Had the signature dish served in a bubbling claypot. Each element is cooked from scratch and the broth was tasty.

Xing Xing Ondeh-Ondeh Tapioca Cake #01-31
This second generation hawker has been running the stall for the past 40 years. Get down early to get a platter of different kuehs—Tapioca Cake with Coconut Flakes, Ondeh-Ondeh, Steamed Tapioca Cake with Coconut Sugar and Kueh Kosui.

For more places to discover in Singapore. Check out my Google map.

Zion Riverside Food Centre | Singapore

Zion Riverside Food Centre opened in 1976 and is located near River Valley Road, along the Alexandra Canal. Smaller than most, this centre enjoyed a makeover last year with a new roof, automated tray return point and more tables.

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Here’s what we ate…

Boon Tong Kee Kway Chap Braised Duck #01-24
Duck braised in herbal broth with rice. Next time will get the Kway Chap.

No. 18 Zion Road Fried Kway Teow #01-17
Worth the wait! There’s always a long line so don’t leave it to late. Each Char Kway Teow is cooked individually and the air punches with wok hei.

Lau Goh Teochew Chye Thow Kway #01-26
Said to be be one of pioneers of white carrot cake, Lau Goh is now run by son Peter. Order the black and white carrot cake fried with egg.

Ah Wang La Mian Xiao Long Bao #01-22
Best known for its Szechuan Spicy Wantons. We got the Xiao Long Bao.

Zion Road Big Prawn Noodle #01-04
The Hae Mee With Broth comes highly recommended. Next time will grab a bowl of prawn noodles from this Michelin-Bib Gourmand.

For more places to discover in Singapore. Check out my Google map.

TRAVEL GUIDE | SAN SEBASTIÁN, SPAIN 🇪🇸

San Sebastián or Donastia as it’s known in Basque, is famed for its golden sand beaches, Michelin-starred restaurants, art nouveau buildings and beautiful Old Town. We stayed for 4 nights in a lovely AirBNB just a 5 minute walk away from the buzz of Old Town with its humming pintxos bars and plazas. Heaven!

WINE BAR | GERALD’S BELLA BAR

Gerald’s Bar in Carlton North remains one of our favourite Melbourne haunts.

Gerald’s Bar in San Sebastián shared the same virtues - bistro style small plates of seasonal produce, bang on wine list, upbeat ambient and an exceptional team.

Since returning home, I can’t stop thinking about this Oliva Spritz - manzanilla sherry, cava, a dash of lemon juice and syrup made from olive jar brine.

Make sure you go on a night when Bella is on. She truly made our night. Read more.

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PINTXOS BAR | PACO BUENO

Paco Bueno is a stand-up pintxos bar, run by the sons of a famous Basque boxer of the same name. The walls are heaving with framed pictures of him in action. The locals come here for a beer and gambas en gabardina, tempura-like prawns on sticks, for only €1.75. Find a spot at the bar, order a beer and prawns and wait for them to come out piping hot. Read more.

PINTXOS BAR | BORDA BERRI

You won’t find pintxos on the bar at Borda Berri. Chefs Iñaki Gulín and Marc Clua serve up raciones (think small plates) and change the menu regularly. We spotted four must-try signatures - 6-hour cooked PX veal cheek in red wine, puntalette risotto with idiazabal Basque sheeps cheese, squid in its ink ravioli and crispy pig's ear with romesco (below). Read more.

PINTXOS BAR | BAR TXEPETXA

Anchovies! Sardines! It’s all about oily fish here at at Bar Txepetxa. The fish is prepared freshly, delicious silvery fillets marinated, not salted, and placed atop bread with unexpected toppings. Read more.

PINTXOS BAR | ZERUKO

The signature dish at Bar Zeruko is La Hoguera - The Bonfire. Served on a mini bbq of smoking rosemary and coals, you’ll cook the tender sliver of cod yourself. Served with a chaser of herb mayonnaise crostini and a test-tube shot of liquid salad. Read more.

PINTXOS BAR | GANDARIAS

Snacks at this Old Town hang emphasise the classic preparation of well-chosen ingredients. On any given night, you might sample seared sirloin atop a slice of toasted baguette, a trio of braised beef cheeks smothered in rich brown gravy, or a skewer of grilled baby squid dressed in sauce of its own ink. Trust your eyes and pick up whatever looks best; no matter what you choose, you’ll develop an excellent baseline for what pintxos should be.

PINTXOS BAR | BAR NESTOR

Bar Nestor is an institution amongst locals and known for ‘the holy trinity’. Wait patiently for a spot at the bar and order:

1. Fresh ox heart tomatoes chopped into chunks, splashed with olive oil, a little vinegar, plenty of salt and served with bread to mop up all the oil.

2. Padron peppers flash-fried in a hot pan with olive oil then doused with salt.

3. The Txuleta! A Basque cut of beef - sirloin on the bone cooked slowly over hot coals. Then sliced, YES doused with salt and served just like that.

Read more.

PINTXOS BAR | LA VINA

Finish your pintxo crawl through Old Town at La Viña. Opened in 1959 by Eladio Rivera and Carmen Jiménez, this institution is now run by their son Santiago Rivera. You’ll be lining up for their famous burnt Basque cheese cream cake. It’s the stuff of legends and perfect with a glass of Pedro Ximenez. Read more.

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SHOP | LANCE & MALONE

Owned by local artists, Lance & Malone is an art shop in Old Town selling illustrations, collages and photographs by local artists. I’ve made a habit of collecting local art whilst travelling and “Salud” by local artist Mikel Casal is now framed and hanging in our kitchen.

COFFEE & BREAD | THE LOAF

Grab an artisanal loaf and the best coffee you’ll find in San Seb from The Loaf. Slice up sourdough, lather with butter and top with anchovies.

🍸BAR | DRY

Maria Cristina Hotel was built in 1912 and given a facelift for her 100th birthday. The 5-star luxury hotel is located in the Belle Epoque buildings along the River Urumea in the heart of San Sebastian, home to Asian-style Café Saigon, cooking school/grocer Mimo San Sebastián and swanky lounge bar Dry Bar. Stop by for cocktails and take in the opulence. Read more.

TRAVEL GUIDE | PARIS, FRANCE 🇫🇷

“If you are lucky enough to have lived in Paris as a young man, then wherever you go for the rest of your life it stays with you, for Paris is a moveable feast.” – Ernest Hemingway.

Oh Paris! This is my second tryst with this captivating city and I look forward to the next. With only two nights in the city of love to end our European summer holiday, we avoided the typical landmarks and tourist traps, exploring the city on foot heading instead to dining hotspots. I hope you enjoy this travel guide. Just comment below with any questions!   

STAY | GRAND HOTEL AMOUR
📍  18 rue de la Fidélité 

Grand Amour Hotel is located on rue de la Fidélité in the 10e, an upcoming neighbourhood fast becoming the place to be. You'll spot the tell-tale blue, red and white frontage and by night, the hotel's bar Petite Amour bursts with bodies across the road. Co-owned by Thierry Cos and designed by graffiti artist cum nightlife kingpin André Saraiva (Le Bain and Cafe Henrie in NYC, The Friend in LA, Le Baron in London).

Don't be offended by the erotic photographs, mainly of the designer himself, and the sex hyped details (yes that means vagina patterned carpet and a well endowed wooden carving of Mickey mouse in the lobby). You'll find 42 unique rooms (and one apartment) inspired by travels from across the globe and a hip pink washed restaurant.

We stayed in the Apartment which was perfect for three at 340,00 € per night (approx AUD $532 per night). The boutique hotel experience is so much more personalised. I love the attention to detail, being greeted by postcards and welcome notes on the bed and the Hermes bath products. You truly are treated as an individual and not just a room number. It may be a little pricier but is certainly worth it... treat yo'self! Read my blog for all the pics.

BAKED DELIGHTS | COLIN REGIS
📍 43 Rue Montmarte

When my sister’s Parisien friend shared a little insider info… ‘the best boulangerie-patisserie in Paris, in my humble opinion’, naturally it was our first stop. Order up and find a park bench to share your baked goods. Recommend arriving early as stocks were running low in the afternoon. Read my blog. 

BAKED DELIGHTS | STOHRER
📍 51 Rue Montorgueil

Paris' oldest patisserie opened in 1730 by pastry chef Nicolas Stohrer, the pastry chef for Louis XV of France and his wife, the daughter of the king of Poland. Centuries on, Stohrer remains one of Paris' most distinguished. We stocked up on an eclair, strawberry tart, cannelle and mille feuille and enjoyed back at le apartment.  Read my blog. 

CHEESE DREAMS | LA FERMETTE
📍 86 Rue Montorgueil

Cheese heaven! The best thing about staying in an AirBnb (or in our case Le Apartmentt at Grand Hotel Amour) is finding local produce and creating the ultimate grazing platter. The owners of this fromagerie were incredibly friendly, the gatekeepers of cheese heaven. Buy your weight in cheese and meats then head down the road for plump raspberries and fresh apricots. Read my blog.

SHOP | LA BOVIDA MAGASIN LES HALLES
📍 36 Rue Montmartre

Gourmands, home cooks and chefs alike will fall in love with La Bovida. A two storey kitchen supply store brimming with every culinary utensil, tool and gadget you may never need. Definitely worth a visit, although very very pricey.

☕️☕️ | MATAMATA COFFEE
📍 58 Rue d'Argout

Paris is good at many things and coffee certainly is not one of them. Luckily though, Matamata is serious about coffee. 

EATS | GRAND HOTEL AMOUR
📍 18 rue de la Fidélité 

The Restaurant at Grand Hotel Amour is straight outta a scene from a Wes Anderson movie, event Refinery29 UK thinks so. Enjoy breakfast, a lazy lunch or glass of wine at dinner. The restaurant rolls easily from morning into night. Such a chic spot in Paris' favourite 'love hotel'. 

EATS | LE COMPTOIR DE LA GASTRONOMIE
📍 34 rue Montmartre

You can’t go wrong with Les Classiques at Le Comptoir de La Gastronomie. Try the house made duck foie gras (any which way.. the carpaccio version was popular amongst diners) terrine with toast and chutney, Foie gras ravioli with truffle sauce, Shepherd’s Pie with duck and mushroom sauce and an obligatory serve of bourgogne snails. Read my blog here. 

EATS | LE DAUPHIN
📍 31 Avenue Parmentier,

A hip bar serving Spanish-style tapas. You’ll love the marble everything and floor to ceiling mirrors. Very chic, very disco and right next door to Le Cave and Le Chateaubriand. This little strip is a must-do. Read my blog here.

EATS | LE CHATEAUBRIAND
📍  129 Avenue Parmentier

This stylish bistro run by self-taught Basque chef Iñaki Aizpitarte, came highly recommended by my friend, gourmand and all round good guy Max Veenhuyzen. His list of the world’s best eating haunts and cultural must eats is coveted and FK I'm lucky to have such generosity on tap. Sir… I salute you.

Le Chateaubriand was incredible!  70 Euros for the 7 course menu, 135 with matching wines.

DRINK | MAISON SAUVAGE
📍 5 Rue de Buci

Find a spot streetside, order cocktails and watch the world go by. 

EATS | AU PETIT FER A CHEVAL
📍 30 Rue Vieille du Temple

Holiday dilemma #496… should your last meal be traditional cuisine of the destination? For us, the answer was yes. So we found a stylishly shabby old bistro, Au Petit fer a Cheval in Le Marais, that has likely not changed the menu since 1963. Soup du jour, Steak tartare, Duck confit and Beef bourguignon satisfied that calling for traditional French fare. Read my blog.

WISH LIST | FOR NEXT TIME
Experimental Cocktail Club
Le Cave
Clown Bar
Le Bon Marché
Le Hibou
Le Mary Celeste

TRAVEL GUIDE | TAORMINA, SICILY ITALY 🇮🇹

High on Monte Tauro on the east coast of Sicily sits the resort town of Taormina. With sweeping views of the Ionian Sea, Mount Etna as its backdrop and an ancient Teatro Greco ‘Greek theatre’, this seaside location is the perfect escape for a taste of Sicilian dolce vita.

We packed a lot into our three nights in Taormina thanks to travel tips and recommendations from friends. I hope this list keeps you satiated.

Views of Mount Etna

STAY | HOTEL VILLA BELVEDERE
📍 via Bagnoli Croci, 79

Hotel Villa Belvedere has all the charms of a traditional Sicilian private villa with its terracotta floors and parlour rooms. Nestled on the cliffs overlooking the Bay of Naxos and Mount Etna and only a short walk to the town. We loved our three night stay here. Read my review here.

SEE | PIAZZA IX APRILE
📍 Corso Umberto

The main square of Taormina is Piazza 9 Aprile, the heartbeat of the town. Named after an important date, 9 April 1860, when mass in the Taormina cathedral was interrupted to announce that Garibaldi had landed at Marsala to begin his conquest of Sicily. Avoid the overpriced cafés that line the square, find a bench and enjoy some people watching whilst taking in the views. 

SEE | TEATRO GRECO

The ancient Greek amphitheatre hosts almost all cultural events in Taormina. What a spot for a film festival?! HEAVEN.

The construction of the Teatro Greco dates back to the third century BC and is an awe-inspiring historical sight. Plus you'll love the stunning backdrop of the Calabrian coast, the Ionian coast of Sicily and Mount Etna. 

Chiesa Santa Caterina D'Alessandria

SEE | VILLA COMUNALE
📍 Via Bagnoli Croce

Wander through the stunning public gardens to escape the hustle. Created by English aristocrat and conservationist Lady Florence Trevelyan in the late 19th century. Take a book and enjoy this lush paradise overlooking the sea. 

The Odeon, a modest Roman-era theatre of the AD 2nd century.

SWEETS | GELATOMANIA
📍Corso Umberto, 7

Look, I’m no gelato expert but I’m about two years into my Chicho Gelato addiction. That weekly hit of the good stuff has certainly refined my palate. Of all the gelato I tried in Taormina, Gelatomania was by far the best. Nearby town Bronte grows the best pistachios in the world, so make sure you get a scoop!

SWEETS | PASTICCERIA MINOTAURO
📍 via di Giovanni 15

A local pointed out this little pastry shop. The glossy fruits will dazzle you if you’re a marzipan fiend. Otherwise go for the stuffed cannoli and keep going back until you are dead certain you’ve found your fave flavour.

SWEETS | BAM BAR
📍 via Giovanni di Giovanni, 45

An absolute must. This bright and lively granita bar is a favourite with locals and tourists. Endless granita flavours with in-season heroes. Order the Granita con Brioche… eat like the Sicilians by tearing off the brioche and dipping it past the cream into the granita below to get the full experience. YUM!

EATS | TISCHI TOSCHI
📍 via Francesco Paladini, 3

Cutest name, best little spot! My friend Alicia raved about this hidden gem. Tucked away from the main tourist drag, Tischi Toschi is a family-run trattoria with a focus on slow food. The limited menu changes with the seasons and you’ll find an interesting take on regional specialities. Dive into the wine list and let them steer you towards the local Sicilian winemakers. You have to order the baked goat cheese. Out of this world… salty, stringy, hot and loaded with garlic and herbs.

EATS | TIRAMISÚ TRATTORIA
📍via Cappucini, 1

Another gem from my friend with the good tastebuds. Tiramisu is located nearby Porta Catania and has an intimate and cosy vibe.

Staff were hilarious… this guy thinks he is a dead ringer for Vin Diesel. Go for the jokes, Risotto alla Marinara and Linguine Polpa di Ricci (sea urchin) and stay for its namesake, the tiramisu.

EATS | PIZZERIA VILLA ZUCCARO
📍 5 Piazza Carmine

This open-air pizzeria was absolutely heaving. Love the bustling vibe and watching pizza pans fly by. Beautiful big pies cooked the Neapolitan way. I have a soft spot (yep that jiggly bit around my waist) for cheese, so the quattro formaggi was my pick. Loved the prosciutto and pistachio number too. Wash it down with an Aperol Spritz. Mangia mangia!

WINE | AL GRAPPOLO D'UVA
📍  via Bagnoli Croci, 6

You'll find charming enotecas dotted through the town. We stopped in for prosecco at Al Grappolo D'Uva before dinner. Highly recommend having an early dinner and then settling in for the evening, letting the staff talk you through the local and natural wines.  

TRAVEL GUIDE | PORTLAND, OREGON USA 🇺🇸

'Portland is where young people go to retire.' Portlandia

For a girl that loves local produce, artisanal purveyors, design driven products and those community feels (did I mention food carts?), Portland was everything I could ever ask for! We spent four nights in Portland based at Ace Hotel over the New Year's break. It was absolutely freezing but we found warmth and comfort in the city's friendly hospitality and incredible offerings. 

STAY | ACE HOTEL
📍1022 SW Stark Street

For me, Ace Hotel is Portland. It's located on the edge of the Pearl District and smack bang in the middle of it all. The lobby is a hive of social activity with people tapping away on Macbooks whilst sipping on Stumptown coffee. We kept going back to Clyde Common (it's just off the lobby), and it's right nearby the Alder Street food cart pod and so many great eateries. 

Loved the personalised touches like the locally crafted cookies with a hand written welcome note on the bed and a list of where's best to celebrate NYE.  The rooms had an industrial feel, a little no frills but super comfy with big fluffy pillows and a hard (enough) bed. Attention to detail was 10/10... honour bar full of the best local brews and wines, Malin & Goetz products (like you actually want to use these!) in the shower and impeccable service.  Check out my blog post here.

☕️☕️ | STUMPTOWN COFFEE
📍various locations

Need coffee in Portland? Stumptown Coffee is the answer. You'll find plenty of locations around the city but my favourite is right next door to the Ace Hotel. Grab a coffee, sink into the green canvas lounge and watch the world pass you by.

EAT | CLYDE COMMON
📍1014 SW Stark St

Clyde Common is also right off Ace's lobby, but that's as hotel restaurant as this place gets. Start your day with a hot breakfast, a hit list of staples right through to more decadent offerings to slam down with a coffee. Stop in for a quick snack, biscuits with housemade jam or pull up a spot at the bar and graze on snacks.  

EAT | TASTY & ALDER
📍580 SW 12th Ave

Tasty & Alder is a trailblazer in Portland's brunch scene, they've even published a cookbook 'Hello My Name is Tasty' that pays homeage to the hits. Much like Clyde Common, we kept going back to this bright and cheery corner eatery. Morning, noon, night.. it doesn't matter just make sure you are hungry.

DRINK | PEPE LE MOKO
📍407 SW Tenth Ave

Right underneath Clyde Common is Ace Hotel's basement bar Pepe Le Moko. An intimate spot for a cocktail or two and late night nibbles. I loved our spot at the bar watching the mixers do their thing. 

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FOOD CART POD | ALDER STREET
📍Southwest Alder & Washington Streets

Alder Pod boasts biggest downtown collection of Portland’s food carts. Located between Southwest Alder and Washington Streets, from southwest 9th to southwest 10th Avenues. Hot favourite includes Nong's Khao Man Gai and Mac & Trees. 

EAT | NONG'S KHAO MAN GAI

Khao Man Gai. Hainanese chicken. Chicken and rice. Whatever you want to call it, just make sure you get there early and before the fried chicken skins sell out. Nong Poonsukwattana knows chicken rice and it is easily Portland's most popular food cart. So good you'll try and recreate it at home using Munchies recipe when those cravings kick in.

EAT | MAC & TREES

Is there anything better than mac n cheese?! Mac & Trees has been serving up the good stuff since the summer of 2015. Choose from the specials or build your own. I've noticed they started adding vegan cheese to the menu too.  

🍩🍩 | BLUE STAR DONUTS
📍 1237 SW Washington St

Holy smokes! The donuts at Blue Star are mind blowing. The bright hued Blueberry, Bourbon & Basil glaze is a must! Made onsite using fresh blueberries, fresh basil, sugar and a splash of Bulleit bourbon. Now that I'm home wish I'd also had a Hard Apple Cider Fritter.

There is a bit of hype around Voodoo, another donut joint, but a few different foodie sources said not to bother. 

EAT | MOTHER'S BISTRO
📍 212 SW Stark Street

Homely, hearty food just like Mom would make. You'll find no fuss breakfast, lunch and dinner at Mother's Bistro. You won't be blown away but sometimes a little simplicity and wholesome cooking is all you need.

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FOOD CART POD | CARTOPIA
📍1207 SE Hawthorne Blvd

Portland’s late night food cart pod has some of the best. Grab some eats and gather around the fire in winter or find a spot under the marquee.

🥔🥔 | POTATO CHAMPION
📍 1207 SE Hawthorne Blvd

Located in Cartopia is Potato Champion! A food cart dedicated to the humble spud. I would do anything to dive into another serve of the PB&J fries. Fries topped with satay sauce and smoky chipotle raspberry goodness. Bam!

EAT | PBJs GRILLED
📍 1207 SE Hawthorne Blvd

Toasted sandwiches done good.
*Update Jan 2017 - looks like these guys are now closed. 

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EAT | POK POK
📍3345 SE Division St

No matter how early you head to Pok Pok, you'll still be last in line. But don't worry.. it's absolutely worth the wait! An ode to Northern Thailand street food by US chef Andy Ricker. Opening in 2005, it's the stuff of legends and cemented Division Streets row of restaurants. Order the famous Ike's wings and let staff talk you through the menu. 

EAT | WHISKEY SODA LOUNGE
📍3131 SE Division St

Scoring a table at Pok Pok straight away is unlikely, wait nearby at Whiskey Soda Lounge and order yourself some soda, drinks and try the  Plaa Meuk Ping (toasted dried cuttlefish).

🍦🍦 | SALT & STRAW
📍3345 SE Division St

Salt & Straw is a cult artisanal ice cream shop. Focusing on local produce and seasonal flavours, the team often collaborate with like-minded purveyors. If you only limit yourself to two scoops... go for these awesome collabs Pear and Blue Cheese (w/ cheesemongers Rogue Creamery) and  Arbequina Olive Oil (w/ Red Ridge Farms' Oregon Olive Mill ).

SEE | PORTLAND FARMER'S MARKET
📍 1010 SW Park Ave

Located in the the quintessentially American surrounds of Portland's State University, the Portland Farmer's Market are open all year round. I wish we had travelled during spring or summer as the markets would have been plentiful. Go to stock up the kitchen in your AirBNB and enjoy street food from the stall holders. The money bowl and tamale were two of my fave eats on the whole trip, all the pics are here. Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall and Portland Art Museum are close by and also worth checking out.

SEE | PITTOCK MANSION
📍 3229 NW Pittock Drive

Built by owner of The Oregonian newspaper Henry Pittock in 2914. Pittock's Mansion is bursting with history and remarkable stories. We were there during the Christmas holidays and every room was adorned with festive decorations. Make an afternoon of it and take in the breathtaking views of Portland.

PORTLAND FOOD GUIDES

I spend more time reviewing food and travel guides than I do on the damn accommodation! Here are some guides and platforms I'd highly recommend you check out before you embark: 
* Food truck nerds can well.. nerd out on Portland Food Carts. 
* Are you a glutard? So is my soul sister Andjelka. If you are into gluten free delights, wholefoods, yoga and a slower style of living you'll love her curated guide to Portland on Life Curator. 
* My good friends at The City Lane are building a gastronomers guide to eats around the globe and have rustled up a nifty guide for Portland (great for beer lovers!).
* Citizens of the States swear by Yelp. You'll find it super handy when travelling for honest peer reviews. 

WISH LIST | FOR NEXT TIME
Le Pigeon
Kachka

If you've got any questions on my Portland adventure, get in touch via comment below. 

Travel Guide | Portland Oregon USA

TRAVEL GUIDE | VANCOUVER, CANADA 🇨🇦

Stunning vistas and walkable neighbours, coupled with a dynamic culinary scene and flourishing focus on craft producers, Vancouver has all the attributes of a great city. 

Our Vancouver holiday was over the Christmas break and we had a quick trip to Whistler spending time with family. We stayed at Westin Bayside located in Downtown. It was comfortable, a little dated but what to expect of big chain corporate hotels. The views overlooking Stanley Park and Dead Man’s Island were beautiful and it was a leisurely walk into town along the Vancouver Harbour. If I had my chance again, I’d choose an AirBNB in the cobbled old-town Gastown where we spent most of our time. 

Each morning we would kickstart out day with coffee from Revolver then find a breakfast joint before venturing off to explore the neighbourhoods. Gastown was definitely a highlight and the majority of my recommendations below are in this ‘hood. I wish we had gone to seaside town of Kitsilano and spent more time in Chinatown. Be careful at night in the troubled neighbourhood of East Hastings as it’s a little scary and the homeless situation and drug-use is sadly very dire.

The dining scene is absolutely incredible and we managed to tick lots off our list. I hope this travel guide gives you some highlights on your adventure in Vancouver.  

SEE | DIGITAL ORCA
📍 Convention Centre West Building, 1055 Canada Place

A breathtaking vista that makes you pause, Digital Orca is a 2009 sculpture by Douglas Coupland. The perfect backdrop for your orca selfie and mandatory 'sucked in we are on holidays' snap.

☕️☕️ | REVOLVER
📍325 Cambie Street

Revolver is founded on two things; coffee and the ultimate experience. The crew here live and breathe the bean. Top of my list by a long shot for your daily caffeine fix. Hell, next time I'd book an AirBNB close by just to ensure I could grab a Revolver coffee every morning. 

Check out my blog post

EAT | MEDINA
📍 780 Richards Street

A brunch time institution in Van City. Take a trip to sunnier shores with Medina's Mediterranean style brunch.  Favourites include spicy Moroccan lamb meatballs, tagine and paella. Interesting cocktails and waffles take breakfast to the next level. Head in early to avoid the lines. Check out my blog post.

EAT | TACO FINO
📍 15W Cordova Street

From humble food truck beginnings to bricks and mortar in four locations, Taco Fino has been slinging Mexican eats to taco lovers. Casual eats with swagger so order up big so you can try the everything on the menu. Check out my blog post.

DETOX | KROKODILE PEAR
📍 Plenty of locations around Vancouver. 

Holidays should be about balance right? Get a vitamin dose with a side of detox from cold pressed juice legends Krokodile Pear. You'll see their fresh juices pop up all over the city.   

EAT | NELSON & THE SEAGULL
📍315 Carrall Street, Gastown

Craving a no-fuss breakfast and 🥑 on toast? Then this place is for you. Check out my blog post

🍩🍩 | CARTEMS DONUTERIE
📍534 W Pender Street

New York has Underwest and Dough, Portland has Blue Star and Vancouver has Cartems. Artisanal doughnuts galore! Including glazed, cake, raised-yeast and huzzahhhh gluten-free! I loved the gluten-free cake version of Honey Parmasen and the seasonal Christmas beauties. Check out my blog post.

SEE | THE STEAM CLOCK
📍 305 Water Street

🍫🍫 | BETA5
📍413 Industrial Ave

Chocolate lovers! Attention please!

BETA5 was everything I'd dreamed of. Taking chocolates and those smashable cream puffs to the next level. Absolutely blown away with the attention to detail and love that goes into every morsel. Check out my blog post here.

SHOP | OLD FAITHFUL SHOP
📍 320 W Cordova Street

Stumbled upon this gorgeous homewares store on Cordova Street in Gastown. Full to the brim of locally made goods. Don't leave without a bottle of Bourbon Maple Syrup by Noble, handcrafted from fine Quebec tapped maple orchard. Stash a few baby bottles in your luggage as presents for the fam and avoid the tourist traps.

EAT | MEAT & BREAD
📍370 Cambie Street

No trip to Vancouver is complete without a Porchetta. An absolute must for food adventures!

Sandwich lords Meat & Bread have been dishing out the good stuff for over six years now and still have a line out the door. 

Check out my blog post here.

 

L'ABATTOIR
📍217 Carrall Street

L’Abattoir is located in the center of Gastown between historic Gaoler’s Mews and Blood Alley. The restaurant was built in the 19th century and is the site of Vancouver’s first jail. Originally buttressed to the city’s main butchery and meat packing district, the name L’Abattoir pays homage to the neighbourhood’s colourful past.

Must try on the cocktail list is the Avocado Gimlet. A savoury take on the classic, 
rosemary and olive-infused Beefeater gin, fresh avocado, Apfelkorn schnapps, lime. 

Pull up a spot at the bar whilst you wait for a table. L'Abattoir is a hotspot and definitely one to book ahead. Missed out on weekend brunch, so check it out and report back!

EAT | ASK FOR LUIGI
📍305 Alexander Street

Ask for Luigi is a little off the beaten track in Downtown Eastside. Pasta is king in the buzzing little Italian joint. You will have to line up to nab your table. Handmade fresh pasta, Luigi's meatballs and olive oil cake are an absolute must. Check out my blog here.

DRINK | NOTTURNO
📍280 Carroll Street - Sorry this is now closed 

This tiny bar serves seasonal Italian small plates, wine and excellent cocktails.  We popped in for a pre-dinner drink. Negroni and a Felice. This seasonal gem fired with grappa, lemon peel and coffee bean essence, Cinzano Rosso vermouth, red wine reduction, white truffle syrup and Aphrodite bitters.

Travel Guide | Vancouver Canada

TRAVEL | 'SHIMOKITA'

Just a couple of stops away from the mayhem of Shinjuku is a little place where Tokyo's flickering tempo slows right down to an almost lazy pace. Here the bright lights fade into two storey pastel buildings dotted with vintage shops and record stores.  Its easy to lose yourself in the intricate labyrinth of tiny lanes beckoning you to explore.  The cafes are kitsch, hidden in basements or up an unassuming flight of winding stairs. 

'Shimokita' as it is affectionately known has a charming, untouched organic vibe, a haven for artists, musicians, Tokyo-ites and travellers wanting to tap into hipster Tokyo.  By day the streets are peaceful but as dusk settles, the laid-back alleyways come alive with Shimo's vibrant bar and rock n roll music scene. Do yourself a favour on your next trip to Japan, book a homely airbnb and spend a few days uncovering the gritty magic of Shimokitazawa.