Showing posts with label Foods. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Foods. Show all posts

Sunday, 7 November 2010

Bed and Breakfast in Virginia

A Virginia bed and breakfast is a perfect way to make your stay in Virginia a memorable one. Almost every city in Virginia will offer guests at least one bed and breakfast choice in addition to the many area hotels. Stay in a bed and breakfast Williamsburg Virginia, a Richmond bed and breakfast, or find a wonderful bed and breakfast in Virginia cities such as Virginia Beach, Newport News, and many others. Some of the advantages to Virginia bed and breakfast stays are the intimate settings, personal service, and unique surroundings.

A wonderful bed and breakfast Williamsburg Virginia option is the Williamsburg White House Bed and Breakfast. This elegant inn is located in the heart of historic Williamsburg, just four blocks from Colonial Williamsburg, the world’s largest living history museum. This bed and breakfast Williamsburg Virginia offers unique suites, sitting rooms and a JFK Library filled with hundreds of educational reads. A full breakfast is served daily and in the afternoons guests can enjoy baked goods, wines, ports and sherries. All suites offer feather topped beds and private bathrooms. Nightly room rates will run you over $125, packages available.

A Richmond bed and breakfast frequented by visitors to Virginia’s capitol is the Grace Manor Inn, located in Richmond’s Historic Monument District. This Richmond bed and breakfast maintains three large guest suites with private baths, a business center, a formal dining room, a sunroom, and three formal parlors. In 1996 the Grace Manor was awarded a Certificate for Historic Preservation by the United States Department of Interior and can be found on the National and State Registers of Historic Places. Daily price for a room is between $150 and $195 per night.

For other Virginia bed and breakfast options, try the Barclay Cottage Bed and Breakfast in Virginia Beach. This B&B is a circa 1895 Cottage with 2-story wraparound porches located 2 blocks from the beach. The cottages were renovated in 1990 and again in 2003, and each features antique furniture, high-quality bedding, and guest robes. Barclay Cottage is air conditioned and includes stereo CD players in each room and free local and long-distance calling for guests. Guests enjoy a home-cooked breakfast daily. Room rates start at around $110 per night for this bed and breakfast in Virginia.

Wherever you happen to be in Virginia, a Virginia bed and breakfast is not far behind. You can also dispel with the myth that a bed and breakfast in Virginia is always pricier than hotel chain accommodations -- often B&B’s meet regular hotel prices or are even cheaper. The only down side to B&B’s is that they may book up much faster than other area hotels due to their intimate and cozy nature, so plan ahead. You may also want to inquire of your B&B whether you will have a private bathroom available or if you will be sharing with other guests. Many Virginia Bed and Breakfast hotels are converted homes and maintain only one or two bathrooms for the house, so be sure to ask if having a private bathroom is of importance. Besides that, book early, and prepare yourself to be pampered.

Saturday, 6 November 2010

Dining in Georgia


The state of Georgia is synonymous in the minds of many with authentic southern cooking. While that is still the case throughout much of Georgia, including Atlanta and Savannah, these two cities have also begun to emerge with much more in the area of dining out. Food lovers hoping to indulge in Atlanta dining or Savannah dining will not be disappointed, as a great number of excellent restaurants can be found in both cities.

Atlanta fine dining is a major draw for many tourists and locals alike. For the most part, Atlanta fine dining is concentrated in the Buckhead neighborhood, which is also home to great shopping and a vibrant nightlife. Atlanta fine dining in Buckhead is both posh and at time exclusive. If you plan to eat at one of the restaurants in this area be sure to plan ahead. Most of the restaurants will require reservations, particularly on the weekends, and it is always best to call ahead.

Atlanta dining for families is also popular, and families should have no trouble locating restaurants with a great atmosphere for family Atlanta dining. Restaurants in Atlanta for families include everything from spots featuring pizza and burgers to comfort food and cafes. Drive-in restaurants tend to be popular in the south, and in Atlanta there are more than one that are great options for families, combining good food with the novel fun of eating in your car. There are also a number of family restaurants in Atlanta that offer more upscale fare, as well.

After checking out all of the best restaurants in Atlanta, you may find yourself wanting to explore Savannah dining. Savannah dining is most well known for the excellent seafood restaurants that can be found throughout the city. Along River Street, home to great shopping and nightlife as well, travelers will find some of the best seafood restaurants in Georgia. There are also plenty of comfort food restaurants to satisfy even the hungriest of travelers. Although River Street is a great place to go for Savannah dining, there are also some excellent restaurants located downtown that should not be overlooked. As with restaurants in Atlanta, be sure to call ahead and confirm reservations on the weekend, as many restaurants fill up quickly on Friday and Saturday nights.

So whether you hope to find the most acclaimed chefs in Georgia or just enjoy some comfort food in your car, there are great options for travelers of every age in both Atlanta and Savannah. From seafood to collard greens, travelers in Georgia should expect to eat well.

Monday, 1 November 2010

New Mexico Food and Dining

Regional cuisine tells an important story about every area. Like curry is synonymous with India and sushi with Japan, the chile is the fruit of the pepper plant and was incorporated into New Mexico foods after the first Spanish settlements in the state. The chile is the exclusive ingredient imported from Mexico that characterizes New Mexico foods and it's no secret that New Mexicans use different varieties of chiles to spice and flavor their food until it's fiery-hot!

New Mexico foods revolve around 3 distinct cultures of the Mexican, Native American and European people. Though Southwest cuisine as a whole is often seen as very similar, New Mexico foods are quite different from those of Texas and Arizona. There are over 40,000 acres of soil being cultivated with New Mexican chiles in four states including New Mexico itself.

Though chiles are definitely one of the main staples in foods of New Mexico, there are other significant ingredients added to the regions dishes to make them distinctly New Mexican. From a handful of simple ingredients, a number of foods of New Mexico are made in cafes, restaurants and local homes. Foods of New Mexico are carefully created by adding different variations of the following ingredients; beef, pork and chicken, corn and flour tortillas, cheese, onions, pinto beans and chiles. Lots and lots of chiles!

Many ethnicities that eat fierce and flaming spicy foods normally east something that will cool the palate when necessary. Sweet and spicy, or cool and spicy offer a gastronomical balance unlike no other. The opposites offer a yin and yang of culinary delight and make the dishes that much more enjoyable. Spicy foods of New Mexico are often eaten with more cooling foods such as sour cream as a topping and lettuce and tomatoes are mixed into the dishes to create a somewhat cooling affect. When your mouth is burning a glass of milk can be just the thing to bring your senses back into symmetry.

Salsa is also a popular condiment and can be had mild, medium and hot. There are many different ways to mix up a batch of salsa and many recipes are held dear to the heart, kept top-secret and passed along from generation to generation in New Mexican families. You'll find salsa to be popular side dish at most any New Mexico restaurant you choose to eat at.

There is a dizzying variety of the New Mexican restaurant serving up dishes from the traditional assortment to international cuisine. To have the most authentic New Mexican dining experience try a genuine New Mexican restaurant. Located in Albuquerque New Mexico, El Pinto Restaurant has been serving diners since 1962. Josephine Chavex-Griggs was the cornerstone in building this restaurant to its acclaimed status today. This New Mexico restaurant serves award-winning cuisine that has been internationally noticed for being 'the flavor of New Mexico'.

Located in central Santa Fe La Casa Sena is also a highly recognized restaurant and features cutting-edge American southwestern cuisine. This New Mexico restaurant also procures a fabulous wine list and a relaxing outdoor patio. From its Green Chile Stew to its Coriander-Chimayo Red Chile Crusted Halibut, this restaurant delights and engages guest after ravishing guest.

At The Old House Restaurant in Santa Fe guests can savor award-winning contemporary American cuisine in a casual dining atmosphere. This acclaimed restaurant is a favorite among locals and offers up a unique and distinctive menu featuring delightful plate presentations in a stylish and comfortable atmosphere.

Many of New Mexico's better known restaurants reflect the unique combination of the state's diverse cultures and traditions. A visit to an acclaimed New Mexico restaurant can open the doors to a unique and gastronomically delightful experience that may very well keep you going back to try different dishes with sumptuous twists on Southwestern flavor.

Friday, 22 October 2010

Rio de Janeiro Bed and Breakfasts, Brazil

Rio de Janeiro bed and breakfasts offer fine alternatives to the city's larger hotels and resorts. These smaller, more intimate lodging establishments have long been popular with couples, though more and more travelers who aren't traveling with the ones they love have been taking notice as well. In addition to offering a relatively relaxed environment with an intimate appeal, your typical Rio B&B also offers good service, as there aren't as many guests to satisfy. A satisfying breakfast to help you get your day started is also part of the deal, and should you need it, most can help you arrange airport transportation.

Naming the best bed and breakfast in Rio de Janeiro is difficult as there are bunch of good ones to choose from. Among the best, however, is the Um Meia Tres B&B, which can be found in the hilly and historic neighborhood of Santa Teresa. With its winding, narrow streets and its proximity to the Centro (City Center), Santa Teresa is a neighborhood with plenty of positive attributes. The Um Meia Tres B&B offers a guest house appeal and plenty of modern amenities that you would expect at a contemporary hotel. The location on the highest hill in the neighborhood only adds to the charm. You'll enjoy fantastic panoramic views of the city in all five rooms, not to mention a stylish contemporary decor, complimentary Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and a safe to put your valuables in while you're out enjoying the many excellent Rio de Janeiro attractions. Outside of the rooms, an outdoor pool, patio, and barbecue area provides options for when you have down time to fill. Around the clock bar and front desk service is just one more thing to like about the Um Meia Tres B&B, and it's worth noting that free parking is available if you have a rental car with you.

Another bed and breakfast that deserves mention when it comes to the best bed and breakfast in Rio de Janeiro is the Bed and Breakfast Leblon. This two-unit Rio B&B offers some of the best lodging rates in Leblon, which is an upscale beach neighborhood. The location is excellent if you want to enjoy some fun in the sun, and with the money that you save on rates, you'll have more left over for the neighborhood's fine restaurants. While not overly luxurious, the Bed and Breakfast Leblon is comfortable and prides itself on offering a "safe and nurturing environment." Between the two rooms, six people can be accommodated. The rooms are private and share a bathroom. A big bed, a table with chairs, clean linens and towels, air conditioning, and Wi-Fi are among the in-room amenities. You can book a guide for area tours with ease during your stay at the Bed and Breakfast Leblon, and regardless of what you have in mind for the day, the complimentary continental breakfast should come in handy.

Making a claim for best bed and breakfast in Rio de Janeiro is another inn by the sea. The Rio de Janeiro Guesthouse, which is also commonly referred to as Marta's Guesthouse, is right across the street from the beach at Copacabana. Within walking distance is Ipanema, not to mention Leblon. A large balcony at this Rio B&B affords excellent views of the area, not to mention prime sunbathing opportunities. The building that houses the six uniquely designed units at Marta's is an art deco gem from the 1940s that has been lovingly restored, and you're free to use the fantastic guest kitchen or enjoy the large LCD TV and DVD player in the common room. Inside the rooms, the decor is homey, thanks in part to the antique wardrobes. Luxury bedding encourages a good night's sleep, and you won't have to worry about sharing a bathroom.

If these top-rated Rio de Janeiro bed and breakfasts are booked for the period that you plan on being in town, then you can always turn to one of the city's other fine B&B inns. Two others that might make your list of considerations include the Arpoador Bed and Breakfast (pictured) and the Casa Beleza. As is true of the Um Meia Tres B&B, the Casa Beleza can be found in the lovely Santa Teresa neighborhood. Formerly a mansion, it boasts an attractive outdoor pool and garden area and an all around charming appeal. As for the Arpoador Bed and Breakfast, it can be found just a half block from Arpoador Beach and no more than a block from both Ipanema Beach and Copacabana Beach. The two guest units at this popular guest house go fast, as do the rooms at all of these Rio de Janeiro bed and breakfasts.

Wednesday, 20 October 2010

Dining in Brazil restaurants

As a cosmopolitan country, the majority of Brazil's main cities offer tourists a wide variety of international cuisines. As it happens, eating out in Brazil is also a very affordable experience, with superb service. However, most visitors to a country want to delve into the local dishes at least once during their stay, and the following are some the national Brazilian foods you"ll see in nearly any restaurants in Brazil:

* Feijoada - the national dish of Brazil, this Brazilian food will be served to you whether you chose to eat in one of the many Brazil restaurants, or if you are more adventurous and chose to eat on the street. Feijoada is a delicious combination of rice, black beans and pork. Having said that you can get this traditional Brazilian food in any restaurant, the best time to eat this in any restaurants in Brazil is on a Sunday, as this the traditional time to eat this.

* Caipirinha - caipirinha is the national drink that is normally drank by diners in most Brazil restaurants prior to eating their Feijoada. Caipirinha is a potent, delicious lime and sugar can drink - very refreshing for the tropics!

* Caldo - Caldo is a soup dish that restaurants in Brazil normally serve before the main dish - Feijoada.

Beside these national dishes and drink, restaurants in Brazil cater for the serious meat eater, known locally Churrascarias - an all you can eat meat restaurant! However, Brazil is probably as famous for its coffee as it is for Carnival and no trip to Brazil would be complete without at least one sample of the local brew. Visitors need to be aware though that Brazilians take their coffee very strong, sweet and in small cups. Also, Brazilian culture dictates that if someone offers you a cup of coffee, you cannot refuse such an offer.

As a tropical country with dense forestation, it should be no surprise that Brazilian food also comprises of a vast array of wonderful, tasty, splendid fruits of types and sizes. So, whilst in a Brazilian restaurant, try out the cupuacu, bacuri, caju, umbu and acai.

Brazilians are fairly favorable to the idea of going to a Brazil restaurants specializing in sweets (desserts). Here, ordinary Brazilians take themselves off to a lanchonetes (snack bar) or paradise (bakery) to savor some of the finer elements of Brazilian food.

If you are traveling in or around the Manaus area, make sure you take full advantage of eating some of the local Brazilian food, as the Brazilian food in this region has been heavily influenced by African cuisine.

Finally, Brazilians end to enjoy drinking chooppe when socializing. Choppe is a locally brewed beer, which has a heavy Germanic influence in its taste. Beside this, Brazilians out enjoying themselves like to drink Caipirinha.

So, no mater where you dine out in Brazil, and regardless of whether or not you want to eat Brazilian food, restaurants in Brazil are both inexpensive and the center of some great socializing - so enjoy a night out in one of the many Brazil restaurants!

Tuesday, 19 October 2010

New Zealand Wine Tours

As if New Zealand food wasn't good enough, you then have the New Zealand wines. Maybe it's the climate and soil that makes the New Zealand wines so good. Perhaps it's the dedication to quality that helps to produce splendid bottle after splendid bottle. Of all the New Zealand wines, Sauvignon Blanc is the frontrunner, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't treat yourself to the other varietals. From the Pinot Noir, to the Riesling, the New Zealand wines are done right. The contrasting settings found in the different regions of New Zealand help the country to produce the variety of wine that it does, and most of the varietals enjoy a slow ripening period. This helps to give them a distinctive bouquet all their own.

New Zealand wine tours are up there with some of the best in the world. If you are the kind of wine lover who dreams of trips to destinations like Napa or Tuscany, then you might as well add New Zealand to your list of hopefuls. If you've already been to other great worldly wine destinations and have yet to savor the New Zealand wines, then it's high time you plan a few New Zealand wine tours. Since most of New Zealand's top wineries are found near the coast, you can imagine the range of views and area activities that can be enjoyed on the side. The Auckland area is a top New Zealand wine-producing region. You'll also find Waiheke Island to have quite a bit of merit itself. The wines here that earn the highest praises are Chardonnay, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon. Waiheke Island is known to produce some wonderful red wines, such as Cabernet Franc and Merlot. The first vines to ever be planted in New Zealand were in the Northland region. Found north of Auckland, the Northland has producing New Zealand wines for almost 200 years. The Bay of Islands and Kaitaia are wonderful places to visit, if not only for the wines, then also for the beaches and area activities.

The best known New Zealand wine region is Marlborough, which is found on the northeast coast of the South Island. The first vines here weren't planted until 1973, but it only took some 20 years for the region to move it's way to the top. The Sauvignon Blanc from Marlborough is some of the best produced anywhere in the world, and you can enjoy it firsthand at the Marlborough Food and Wine Festival. It's one of the top New Zealand festivals, highlighting a number of gastronomical delights. For those who like Pinot Noir, head to the southeast coast of the North Island. It's here that you will find Martinborough, where every bottle of Pinot Noir seems to be amazing. There are more wonderful New Zealand wine regions to explore, and all of them are prime destinations for New Zealand wine tours. New Zealand Garden and wine tours are becoming more and more popular, and for good reason. Enjoying a lovely glass of wine while strolling through vineyards and amidst flowers is nothing short of sublime. You can book New Zealand garden and wine tours for a half or full day, or enjoy extended tours where your personal guide will escort you to some of the best regions and wineries. Often times, you can find New Zealand wine tours that are included in bigger New Zealand travel packages, which is nice for those looking to pair trips to wineries with other fun pursuits.

Enjoying New Zealand wine garden tours doesn't have to be an expensive endeavor. At Hawke's Bay, for example, you can hit 4-5 wineries on a day trip, and spend well under $100. Your wine guide will not only serve as a wine guide, but also as an area guide as well, explaining different points of interest along the way. You can get more luxurious, and thus more pricy, if you want, which is something that true wine-enthusiasts should consider. Imagine meeting the winemakers when taking your personalized New Zealand wine and garden tours, or following up a tour with a helicopter flight over the vineyards.

New Zealand Bed and Breakfasts

When planning a New Zealand vacation, you will be presented with a list of interesting accommodations choices. From beach resorts and fishing lodges, to numerous hotels and spacious vacation rentals, the New Zealand accommodation list is long. If you're looking for an alternative to the aforementioned New Zealand lodging options, you might find the New Zealand bed and breakfasts to be an ideal fit. Couples enjoying romantic New Zealand getaways are encouraged to consider staying at a bed in breakfast in New Zealand, as is anyone else who might enjoy the kind of service that most of the New Zealand bed and breakfasts are known for. Generally, a bed and breakfast in New Zealand will have a small number of guest units, so the staff can spend more time ensuring that each guest's needs are attended to. Also, it's hard to argue with a delicious and filling breakfast in the morning to start your day off right. Sure, many hotels offer a continental breakfast, but most can't compete with the kind you'll enjoy if a bed and breakfast is your New Zealand accommodation pick.

If a bed and breakfast is the kind of New Zealand accommodation you're after, you'll find a bunch of good ones spread out all over the country. On the North Island, the city of Auckland makes for an excellent travel base. Besides offering world-class dining, a wealth of museums, and plenty of fun, outdoor activities, Auckland presents a most healthy lodging variety. The Auckland hotels have among them many an excellent bed and breakfast, so you won't have to worry about finding a good one here. The Peace and Plenty Inn is housed in an 1880 Victorian villa, and it's a consistent candidate for top bed and breakfast in New Zealand. The Auckland suburb of Davenport has a bunch of moderately-priced bed and breakfasts, among them of which is the nice, and centrally-located Esplanade Hotel. After a long day at the Auckland Zoo, or any other number of great Auckland attractions, relaxing in your cozy and comfortable bed and breakfast can be just what the doctor ordered. Further south on the North Island, the 298 Oriental Bay hotel is surely a great bed and breakfast in New Zealand choice. It's situated on one of the more scenic bays found in the Wellington area, and you're within walking distance of some of the best New Zealand museums. The Boathouse is another Wellington B&B to consider, affording guests some great nearby beaches.

On the South Island, the resort city of Queenstown is often the aim of visitors, as it has a wealth of outdoor tours and activities to take advantage of. If you like hiking, skiing, and breathtaking views, Queenstown is the place for you. There are wonderful Queenstown hotels to choose from, and surely a bed and breakfast can be your New Zealand accommodation here. The Pencarrow is among the best of the bunch, offering luxurious suites and prime views of the mountains and Lake Wakatipu. The Coronet View Apartments and B&B is priced lower than most of the luxury B&B's found here, and it offers an interesting array of lodging choices. The South Island city of Christchurch is surely a top tourism destination. Two bed and breakfasts here that offer guests privacy and endless hospitality are the A Nest on Mount Pleasant, and the Broad Oaks Vista bed and breakfasts. In Dunedin, the Grandview B&B is an ideal New Zealand accommodation pick for anyone who likes history and location. It's housed in a 1901 mansion, and it's found right in the heart of the historic district. For those who prefer to be out of town a bit, the Bluegum B&B in Dunedin is found 15 minutes out, and it's pretty darn tranquil.

These are just a few of the New Zealand bed and breakfasts that you might add to your New Zealand accommodation list. There are many more that deserve consideration as well, and generally, the choices meet a variety of budgets. As mentioned, attentive service is a highlight of staying at a New Zealand bed and breakfast, as is the breakfast. The owners and hosts at most of these establishments will know everything about the area in which you are vacationing, so be sure to take advantage of their inside knowledge when considering area tours and such. Getting dining recommendations from your host(s) is always a good idea, and should you need to rent a car, they can surely point you in the right direction.

The New Zealand food


The New Zealand food is just another reason to treat yourself to a New Zealand vacation. If you had to pick one word to describe New Zealand food, you might go with fresh. But alas, so many more choice adjectives could be used all the same. Delicious and unforgettable also come to mind. It;s not only the food that makes New Zealand dining such a pleasure, though that would surely suffice. The wine here is also about as good as it gets, and as any gastronomical fanatic knows, should you pair a good dish with a good wine, it can make for a monumental affair. Food is special for New Zealanders, and they take pride in their ingredients. Lucky for them, all they could ever want grows practically right outside their doors. Great New Zealand restaurants can be found all over the country, and they represent not only native influences, but also those taken from the many immigrant groups that have taken up residence in this beautiful land.

You may have heard that there are more sheep than people in New Zealand, and it is true. What does that mean? Plenty of rack of lamb to enjoy. For those that like seafood, New Zealand;s waters turn up a veritable bounty. In the waters near Nelson, for example, you can find pull up bay scallops, oysters, trout and salmon. Coincidentally, the trout fishing in New Zealand is some of the best, so anglers will want to book a fishing trip to snare these large beauties. At Lake Taupo, you can take your catch of the day to one of the local restaurants to have them prepare it for you. Doesn;t get much fresher than that. The fruits and vegetables grown in New Zealand certainly make it into the dishes of many a chef here, and among other entries, you;ll find tasty yams, sweet potatoes, tamarillos, and kiwi fruits. Just be sure not to confuse the kiwi fruit with the kiwi bird, which is the country;s national symbol. You don;t have to be daring by any means to try the New Zealand food. In fact, it;s quite the opposite, as you;ll more than likely find yourself having to exercise a certain amount of restraint. For the more daring culinary crusaders, you can still go down some odd New Zealand food avenues. Bug larvae and sheep;s eyes are good for starters.

New Zealand traditional food has its roots in the Maori and European cultures. The Maori were the first to settle these lands, with European settlers arriving later. While the Maori brought with them various food plants from their Polynesian islands, these did not fare well in New Zealand. Thus, they turned to the fernroot and native animal species like the extinct moa. Huhu grubs often made the menu for the Maori, as did the native marine life. These days, you can still experience a hangi, which is a traditional Maori earth-oven meal consisting of meat and vegetables. Perhaps the best place to do so is in Rotorua. New Zealand traditional food of the Maori was often seasoned in interesting ways. Salmon flavored with New Zealand tea tree honey and kelp enhanced with dried algae are just two examples of this.

When the Europeans first arrived, they brought their culinary influences, helping move New Zealand traditional food in another direction. The Europeans brought pork and potatoes, and their potato varietals quickly did well. In the New Zealand city of Dunedin, Scottish settlers were influential in the food scene. You can still get Haggis in Dunedin today should you be interested. Colonial Goose is a traditional New Zealand dish inspired by early Colonial pioneers, and it;s often featured at festivals and such. Colonial Goose actually doesn;t employ goose, but lamb instead. A leg of lamb is stuffed with dried apricots, honey, breadcrumbs, chives, parsley, and onions. After marinating in a red wine sauce, it;s off to be cooked. Pork, beef, and venison are often featured at top New Zealand restaurants, though roast lamb seems to reign supreme for the most part. Most commonly, carrots, potatoes, and fresh peas accompany it. When you head to the various New Zealand restaurants, you;ll enjoy a food scene that is still pretty much developing. Recent Asian influences are seeing more precedence, and fast food eateries are becoming more popular. At the fine-dining institutions, New Zealand chefs are creating their own dishes using all the fresh and handy ingredients found here. Among the more curious New Zealand foods is what;s known as a Pavlova. Named after Anna Pavlova, a Russian ballet dancer, it is a meringue dessert that is crusty on the outside and topped most often with whipped cream and fresh, tart fruits.

You;ll surely have to savor some of the New Zealand wines when you are here. New Zealand dining definitely benefits from the quality of the varietals produced here, perhaps the most renowned of which is the Marlborough region;s Sauvignon Blanc. Quality red wines are produced in the Auckland region and the Bay of Islands, and plenty of chic chardonnays from all over make the cut. Wine tours in New Zealand are a good way to sample some of the local product, and you can of course order a bottle with dinner at any number of New Zealand restaurants. New Zealand is very much a laid-back country, and for the most part, this extends into the New Zealand restaurants. It's all about enjoying the enjoyment of good food, good friends, and good times. You might not be coming to New Zealand exclusively for the food, but chances are good that you might return one day because of it.

Fijian Cuisine

Everyone on vacation loves to try the local treats and Fijian cuisine is one that will excite your taste buds and your palate asking for more. You will enjoy all the various types of food in Fiji that are spread before you at the many restaurants whether they are local treats or international cuisine.

You will find all the islands are dotted with restaurants that offer traditional Fijian food, Indian foods, and of course international cuisine so everyone will find their favorite dishes and other food in Fiji to eat. The most popular Fijian food includes kakoda, rourou, duruka, lovo, kassaua, and breadfruit. Fijian dining can be found at Makuluva Delights, Riley's Restaurant, and the Bounty Bar & Restaurant. Makuluva Delights is home in Waiyevo, Fiji on Coast Road. At Makuluva's you will be able to enjoy several traditional foods of Fiji along with European and Asian cuisine. Fijian dining at Makuluva's is very affordable; however, they only serve dinner. Makuluva Delights is located nearby the Garden Island Resort. Kakoda is one of the most common foods of Fiji you will find at several restaurants, which is a local fish.

Riley's Restaurant is found on Naigani Island and is nearby Suva. This is the best restaurant on this island for serving up Fijian cuisine that will melt in your mouth. Here you will enjoy seafood, beef, taro, and local vegetables. Breakfast and lunch are also served but nothing is as great as their three-course dinner of traditional Fijian food or international cuisine if you desire.

Bounty's Bar and Restaurant is another popular place for trying some of the authentic foods of Fiji. The relaxed atmosphere is perfect for a romantic meal featuring grilled steaks and several Fijian food items. The most popular Fiji traditional food served here is palusami, which is a delectable pork, or fish, which is prepared by steaming along with coconut milk surrounded by taro leaves and creates one of the best foods of Fiji you can find.

Food in Fiji is very diverse just as is the residents that call Fiji home. Along with finding delectable and enticing traditional Fijian food, you can also find a large variety of Fiji dining that offers many different cuisines along with Fijian cuisine. Along with serving Fijian food you will find very affordable and small family style restaurants and on the other end high dollar exotic Fiji dining possessing an elegant atmosphere. The Chef's The Edge is found on Sagayam Road right behind Jack's Handicrafts in Nadi. Chef's - The Edge is a more of an elegant and chic restaurant offering herbal tea, espresso, cappuccino and delicious treats such as Asian cuisine, seafood lasagna, and even the old American stand by, hamburgers.

One other Fijian dining experience if you are looking for romance and spectacular scenery at the same time that must be mentioned is the Waterfall Restaurant & Bar. The Waterfall Restaurant & Bar is home in Suva and is completely surrounded by soft and gently flowing brooks and tropical greenery. Many consider this eatery as one with a ambiance that is not only romantic but dreamy. The most popular dishes served are Thai food.

No matter where you are in Fiji, you will find an array of delightful dining experiences. All major hotels and resorts have restaurants and you do not have to be a guest at their establishment to enjoy their vareity of the local and international cuisine. During lunch you may find instead of a sit down and be served style meal you will encounter buffet style treats.

Saturday, 9 October 2010

Miami Bed And Breakfast

Miami is a wonderful gleaming city with a lot going on. Visitors to Miami can expect a busy feel and a hip atmosphere. No spot in Miami is more hip than the trendy Miami Beach-South Beach area and staying in a Miami Beach bed and breakfast will make you feel at home while enjoying the excitement around you. Head out to the beach and see and be seen, grab dinner at a nearby restaurant and head back to your bed and breakfast Miami Beach Florida for a relaxing night in a charming setting. Visitors may also look to stay on the picturesque Biscayne Bay, where proximity to Key Biscayne and the Biscayne National Park gives nature lovers the ideal spot to head out and explore. Here are some ideas for a bed and breakfast Miami Beach Florida and a Bayside Miami bed and breakfast for consideration the next time you are visiting beautiful Miami.

The European Guesthouse makes its bid as the premier bed and breakfast Miami Beach Florida with its elegant and sophisticated guestrooms, all outfitted with the modern amenities you should expect to find. Located at 721 Michigan Avenue in South Beach, you are in the heart of hip, situated in the Art Deco District. Within a couple minutes walk, you will find bars, shops, beaches and restaurants, and you'll feel exceptionally elite returning to this European style home away from home. Everything that makes South Beach such a hotspot is right outside your door and the laid-back atmosphere of The European Guesthouse will make you feel more than welcome. Enjoy the all you can eat breakfast buffet and indulge all day long in the complimentary tea, coffee, fruits and pastries.

Your second option for a trendy Miami Beach bed and breakfast can be found at the SoBeYou Tropical Bed " Breakfast Inn. Found at 1018 Jefferson Avenue in South Beach, SoBeYou has been recently remodeled by the present owners to retain the Art Deco character of the area. An extra treat at SoBeYou comes with their gourmet breakfast created within their modern kitchen. Multigrain walnut pancakes are accompanied by shirred eggs with a tarragon mornay sauce or broccoli, cheddar and arrugula omelets. You can eat poolside, where the staff will bring you this wonderful dish. SoBeYou promises to give you "the service and pampering of a five star hotel without the five star prices". This Miami Beach bed and breakfast features 10 newly renovated poolside rooms that are luxurious and well-decorated.

The Pearson House offers a good option for a Bayside Miami bed and breakfast that will have you within walking distance from beautiful Biscayne Bay and within a short drive from Key Biscayne. This is a small Bayside Miami bed and breakfast in a private home where all the focus is on you, as there is only one guestroom. Accommodations include a separate entrance, refrigerator, microwave, and a coffee maker. A light breakfast of cereal, fruit and muffins is provided in your room when you desire, and you can eat in the lovely tropical garden if you wish. Downtown Coconut Grove is within walking distance where you'll find wonderful dining options and antique shopping. Coconut Grove is worth exploring, and you'll also be within walking distance of the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, and just across the Rickenbocker Causeway you are on beautiful Key Biscayne where you'll enjoy some notable Miami beaches and great views back on the Miami skyline.

Miami Restaurants

Good food is always one of the cornerstones of a memorable vacation, and visitors to South Florida will find no shortage of it. There is an abundance of restaurants in Miami to choose from, ranging from casual to upscale with a diverse selection of food choices, such as fresh Florida seafood and authentic Cuban cuisine.

Miami restaurants are located throughout the city, and unless you are staying in one of the Miami Beach hotels or one of the vintage hotels in the Art Deco district, which are within walking distance of many restaurants, it's necessary to have other transportation, such as rental cars. Several areas of the city where good restaurants are found include South Beach, Little Havana, North Miami Beach, Coconut Grove, Key Biscayne, Coral Gables, and the downtown area.

The upscale South Beach area is known to have several establishments in contention for the unofficial title of best Miami restaurant. One such restaurant is Bongos Cuban Cafe, owned by singer Gloria Estefan and her husband, which serves both lunch and dinner in stylish surroundings. In the evening, the café becomes the place to be for live music and dancing until the early morning hours. Another upscale restaurant worth considering if you're looking for the best Miami restaurant is also in the Miami Beach area. Emeril's, owned by renowned chef Emeril Lagasse, is a fashionable hot spot restaurant for the see-and-be-seen crowd. It serves lunch and dinner daily.

Miami restaurants along the beaches are numerous; one of the most popular and famous is Joe's Stone Crab. Joe's has been in business since 1913 and is considered the best Miami restaurant for fresh stone crabs and key lime pie. It's a popular place for tourists and locals alike, and it is likely there will be a waiting period to be seated, as Joe's does not take reservations.

The South Beach area has more than 250 restaurants to choose from, offering menus that include Asian, Chinese, American, Italian, and Cuban cuisine and atmospheres ranging from fast food to fine dining. The large selection of Miami restaurants provides visitors with opportunities to try the many varieties of cuisine available while on vacation in the city, no matter how long their stay.

For excellent Cuban food in Miami, the Little Havana district is a good place to start. Steeped in Hispanic culture and heritage, you will experience the best in authentic cuisine in this lively neighborhood. From sidewalk cafes serving the freshest Cuban coffee, pastry, and pressed Cuban sandwiches to full-scale restaurants with mouth-watering pork and chicken dishes, the tastiest fare can be found in Little Havana. For a taste of Spain, Casa Juancho, located in Little Havana, serves a variety of Spanish entrees and has an impressive wine cellar with more than 450 vintage bottles available.

Visitors who are particularly interested in authentic Cuban food in Miami should consider Versailles. A favorite restaurant of the local residents, it boasts an informal and friendly atmosphere along with exceptional food and large portions. And while Little Havana is the primary area for Cuban food in Miami, another that's worth checking is the Lincoln Road Mall. With more than 40 restaurants to choose from along the open-air pedestrian mall, Cuban food at the Yuca Restaurant is on the top of the list. Yuca serves lunch and dinner along with salsa dancing at the upstairs nightclub.

Thursday, 7 October 2010

Daytona Beach Dining


Daytona Beach might not boast as many good restaurants as nearby Orlando, but that doesn't mean that it isn't a diner's destination. Dining in Daytona Beach can involve grabbing a slice of pizza on the Boardwalk, heading to a local bar and grill for some good eats and some good times, treating yourself to a dinner cruise, and preparing your own meals in the kitchen of your vacation rental. Some of the hotel rooms here also feature kitchens, so if you like to cook, you don't have to leave your culinary passion back home. Even if you plan on preparing most of your meals on your vacation, the Daytona Beach restaurants will always be there to meet your needs when you get a taste for something. There are definitely a lot of restaurants in the area that serve seafood, so seafood lovers will feel right at home.

When it comes to the Daytona Beach restaurants, you'll find that the city has its fair share of fast food joints. While you won't likely want to enjoy all of your meals at fast food eateries, they can come in handy when you want to save some time and money. There are plenty of inexpensive restaurants in and around the city that are more unique than the fast food establishments, so you don't have to go the fast food route when looking to save some money while dining in Daytona Beach. On top of a bunch of restaurants that are cheap, the Daytona Beach dining scene also boasts an array of restaurants that are moderately priced in case you are looking for a step up in overall quality. When fine dining is the name of the game, you'll also be in luck, as there are some upscale eateries to choose from as well.

If you're in the mood for a unique Daytona Beach dining experience heading to the Main Street Pier is worth considering. In addition to some neat rides, this longest pier on the East Coast also features a good restaurant that serves up tasty casual fare. You can also grab some drinks at the pier's restaurant if you're interested. Due south in Daytona Beach Shores, another pier extends well out into the Atlantic Ocean. The Sunglow Pier in Daytona Beach Shores boasts its own restaurant, and if you're not in the mood for some food, you might see what's on the drink menu at the full bar. The frozen drinks are especially good when it's hot outside.

In addition to looking along Atlantic Avenue and Beach Street for some Daytona Beach restaurants, you can also try some of the hotels and resorts. The Shores Resort & Spa, which is arguably the most luxurious hotel in the immediate area, boasts one of the city's best restaurants, and you'll do well to eat at least one meal there. The Plaza Resort & Spa, which is one of the other top hotels in the land, is another good place to visit if you're looking to enjoy some upscale dining in Daytona Beach. In addition to a fine dining restaurant, the Plaza also offers a sleek lounge and a poolside café, all of which you're bound to take advantage of if you book a stay here.

Exploring the Daytona Beach dining scene can definitely be fun, and if you need help finding some good places to eat when you're in town, you can always ask the locals. If you're too bashful to go about inquiring about good places to eat, then you can simply wander around town and look for a crowded establishment. A healthy crowd at an eatery usually means that the food is good. Whatever you have in mind when it comes to dining in Daytona Beach, the city's restaurants more than have you covered. Perhaps you'll head over to a beachfront restaurant to enjoy the ocean views while you dine on Mahi Mahi or fresh shellfish, or maybe you're up for trying some alligator while you savor a hearty chowder. There are some interesting possibilities when it comes to food in Daytona Beach, and you're encouraged to keep an open mind and try something new every now and again. Don't forget to consider the area food festivals when trying to build up your Daytona Beach dining itinerary. If you like Cajun food, then the Daytona Beach Bayou Boil is sure to make you happy. It is held in April. Two other Daytona Beach food festivals that might interest you include the Shores Wine & Food Festival and the New Smyrna Beach Uncorked! Fine Wine and Food Festival.

Tuesday, 5 October 2010

Austin Restaurants



Austin restaurants range from casual eateries that serve up quick and affordable dishes to upscale dining retreats where forward-thinking chefs are turning out some innovative and truly fine cuisine. Casual reigns supreme when it comes to dining in Austin, even at the more upscale eateries, so you won't likely need to have your suit pressed or your dress dry cleaned before you head out for a meal.

As is true in most Texas cities, the food in Austin often comes straight off the grill, with barbecue joints especially abundant in the general area. If you can't find a barbecue restaurant in Austin proper that suits your taste, a number of surrounding towns, such as Lockhart, offer some good options. The majority of the best Austin restaurants can be found Downtown, but the drive out to destinations such as Lockhart is well worth it when barbecue and beer is what you have a taste for.

The Downtown Austin restaurants offer plenty in the way of variety, and when hunger hits, the SoCo area to the immediate south of the Downtown core can also be a good place to go. In addition to a variety of stand alone eateries, the Downtown and SoCo Districts are also home to a number of enticing hotel restaurants, such as the award-winning restaurant that can be found at the Driskill Hotel. The Driskill enjoys a fine location in the 6th Street Entertainment District, and its restaurant is an ideal place to go when fine dining is Austin is the aim. The 6th Street Entertainment District boasts restaurants to fit all kinds of tastes and preferences, and it's also where some of the best bars and clubs can be found.

The best Downtown Austin restaurants aren't only found in the 6th Street Entertainment District. Over in the Warehouse District, for example, some of the best upscale Austin restaurants await. Down in SoCo, the cafes are especially popular congregating places, and in the morning hours, grabbing a pastry to go with your coffee and sitting down for some high-quality people watching can be a fun way to spend some time. If you're not in the mood for a pastry, you might grab some breakfast tacos. Regardless of the time of day, getting some good authentic Mexican cuisine won't be hard in the Austin region. This has a lot to do with the fact that Texas shares a border with Mexico.

The Downtown Austin restaurants offer something for everyone, and while meat dishes figure prominently on the various menus, vegetarians will be happy to know that they aren't left out of the picture. Most of the local restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, and since the city is home to a good number of vegetarians and vegans, there are a bunch of purely vegetarian restaurants to choose from. As you might imagine, some of the Austin restaurants are unique establishments, while others are chain brand eateries that travelers are likely to be familiar with. If you're not sure where to go in terms of the unique restaurants, falling back on the chain brand restaurants is always an option.

Dining in Austin is a true joy, especially if you are willing to explore all of the available options. Interestingly enough, many Austin locals like to dine at grocery stores from time to time, as the city is home to some fantastic grocery stores that feature large dining areas. When a unique dining experience is the aim, enjoying a musical brunch is also worth considering, and should you be visiting the city between the months of March and November, getting a table at one of the restaurants near the Bat Bridge at dusk can make for an unforgettable dining experience. At dusk, tens of thousands of bats leave their roosts on the bottom of the bridge and head out on a feeding frenzy that makes for quite the spectacle.

When it comes to dining in Austin, getting some good food at a festival, taking advantage of room service at one of the more upscale hotels, and seeing what the cheap restaurants near the University of Texas at Austin campus have to offer are just some of the other options. It's all about variety when it comes to dining out in the Texas capital, and for those who like to cook, grilling out over an open fire while camping can be a blast. It is also possible to book a hotel room or a vacation rental that features its own kitchen facilities. The extended stay hotels are especially known for providing guests with private kitchens, and rare is the vacation rental that doesn't have a full kitchen.

Friday, 24 September 2010

Mediterranean Cuisine In Croatia

The country of Croatia has a true Mediterranean cuisine. The state is formally named “Republika Hrvatska” and it is situated in south-central Europe in the Adriatic coast’s northeastern part. In the group of the Balkan nations, it is situated in the midwestern section. Croatia’s major territories include the Croatia proper, Istria (majority of its land area), Slavonia, and Dalmatia. The state is divided into 21 administrative constituencies. Its coastline, which is superb for sailing, extends as far as 3,000 miles long.

Shrimp with Tomatoes, Oregano and Feta

Croatian cooking is basic Mediterranean cuisine with its individual specific touch. It includes fish, shellfish, fresh vegetables and olive oil holding centre stage. Varieties of fish include dog’s tooth, gilthead, grouper, mackerel, sardines and sea bass. You will as well find cuttlefish, octopus and squid, lobsters, mussels, oysters and shrimps. These are served up grilled or in stews and risottos.

The local smoke-dried ham is very good. Lamb is too extremely regarded, particularly grilled on an open fire. There are whatsoever interesting local dishes, many discovered on individual islands, to be sought-after or avoided. Consider Vitalec as an example – lamb’s offal wrapped in lamb gut and spike-roasted, not everybody’s idea of culinary heaven.

Walnut roll 7

Dalmatian desserts are superb too. The most usual ingredients include almonds, eggs, honey, local fruit, dried figs and raisins. Try Orehnjaca, dessert bread with walnuts or poppy seeds. Palacinke are pancakes usually served well with jam or chocolate.

Dalmatian wines have been regarded highly since ancient times. Celebrated wines include Babic from Primosten, Dingac and Postup from the Peljesac Peninsula and Plancic from the island of Hvar. There are also great local brandies and liqueurs.

Friday, 27 August 2010

Kim Chi at Korean Food Cooking Class

There is a saying : “to really understand one country’s culture, you must try their food”. So, what is the trademark food for Korea ? Yes, Kim Chi or Kim Cee is the most famous Korea food, not only for the local people but also at overseas.

Kimchi actually is a fermented vegetable dish highly seasoned with red pepper and garlic and is served at virtually all meals. Because for its popular, most of Korean Restaurants everywhere in the world are serving Kimchi soup for dessert or main menu.

For tourists who are visiting Korea, don’t forget to take the Kimchi Making Lesson. There are many famous Korean cooking classes in Korea, include classes in royal palace cuisine at the National Palace Museum in Gyeongbokgung Palace, classes run by the Tteok Museum, and Yoo’s Family’s classes in Bukchon hanok village.

Kimchi Festival or Kimchi Contest is frequently hold by Korea governments now. Kimchi was again front and center on the Hansik (Korean food) tour arranged by the Ministry for Food, Agriculture, Forestry and Fishery and the European Union Chamber of Commerce in Korea (EUCCK) that took place at the Hanok Village in Jeonju, Jeollabuk-do (North Jeolla Province)

There are 3 main site for visitors to take Korean Cooking Classes :

1. The National Palace Museum of Korea at Gyeongbokgung Palace, Seoul.

The royal palace cuisine cooking classes at the National Palace Museum in Gyeongbokgung Palace have become particularly popular since the international success of the Korean TV drama, “Daejanggeum”, which was set in a Joseon era palace kitchen. This is a good course for people looking to learn Korean cooking over a longer period. Courses last three months, and participants learn a new royal meal every week. For those interested in partaking, be sure to make prior reservations through the homepage.

Location:
National Palace Museum of Korea Annex 1F

Program :
Learn 12 different Royal Court dishes over a 12-week period (accompanied by a guide)
Experience programs will vary according to the season, so please inquire by telephone or via the homepage.

Course Dates & Times: Fridays (3-month regular course) 6:30pm ~ 8:00pm
Irregular Course: to be scheduled on Saturdays.

Fees for Ingredients:
- Ingredient costs for regular courses will vary from 15,000 to 20,000won
per month. (around 50,000 won total for 3 months)
- Irregular Courses: 4,000 won ~ 10,000 won per class.

2. Tteok museum

The Tteok Museum offers classes in cooking traditional dishes like tteok (traditional rice cakes) and kimchi. During the classes, participants can wear a hanbok, and at the end of class you can eat the food you’ve made. The programs are only available for groups of at least 20 people.

The museum is a short walk from the front gate of Changdeokgung Palace in the direction of Jongno 3-ga Station, Exit 6. It is open Monday to Saturday, 10:00—5:00 and on Sunday, 12:00—5:00. It is closed on Seollal and Chuseok. Entrance is 3,000 won.

3. Yoo’s Family

At Yoo’s Family’s cooking classes, visitors can learn Korean dishes like kimchi, bulgogi, pajeon, and tteokbokki, which are popular among foreigners. Minimum of 2 people required per class. English and Japanese interpretation provided.

Some photos of Korean Cooking class like Kimchi and Tteok, and lesson at Korean Palace :

Pulmuone Kimchi museum seoul
Kimchi, a pickled and fermented dish, is displayed in the Pulmuone Kimchi Museum in Seoul

learn how to make kimchi
The Hansik tour group is learning how to season kimchi

kimchi lesson at Gyeongbokgung palace
Cook Traditional Royal Court Delicacies at the National Palace Museum of Korea (Gyeongbokgung Palace)

Gogung Tteurak Cafe
The newly opened Gogung Tteurak Café, located inside the National Palace Museum of Korea, presents the ambiance of traditional Korea. The facility is divided into a souvenir shop and a café, serving traditional teas.

Utgitteok Lesson
Tourist trying in making Utgitteok, an abundant pile of rice cakes topped with elegant decorations usually prepared for large events. We were also able to easily follow directions for Saektteok (colored rice cakes), which feature beautiful colors and shapes, often called Kkotsanjeok (meaning a mountain of flowers).

Korean Cooking Class
Famous Korean cooking classes, include classes in royal palace cuisine at the National Palace Museum in Gyeongbokgung Palace

rice cakes at Tteok Museum
Rice cake or TTeok. Tteok Museum teaches the history and tradition of Korae’s Most Important treat

Kimchi at Dongrakwon Jeonju
The group is listening how to make kimchi at Dongrakwon, Jeonju Hanok Village in Jeollabuk-do (North Jeolla Province)

first time making kimchi
For most of the participants it was their first time to make kimchi, and they were intent on following the given instructions as precisely as possible, slicing the radish and mixing it with other seasonings.

Tuesday, 24 August 2010

5 Foods to Try in Ghana

Ghanaian cuisine is similar to the cuisine of many other West African countries. There are a number of soups and stews and many meals involve either rice, maize, or cassava. This is a list of five typical and delicious Ghanaian dishes that should not be missed. While they can be found at most any roadside eatery and restaurant establishment, seek out places that are crowded. Popularity is often an indication of food that is both delicious and sanitary. Ask locals for recommendations, they will be heartened by the fact that you want to try the local cuisine. And of course, these are only five of the typical dishes in Ghana. There are others worth trying - think of this as a good starting point!

Fufu - Fufu is a pounded mixture of cassava and plantain. It is typically served with a soup. When you eat fufu you use your right hand to tear off a small piece and with your thumb you create a small depression in the fufu that act as a resevoir for the soup. You scoop up some soup and then you swallow the fufu whole. It is traditionally not chewed and you may receive some strange looks if you are visibly chewing fufu. Fufu is found throughout Ghana as well as elsewhere in West Africa.

Jollof Rice - Jollof is a rice dish that is made with onions, tomatoes, chiles and a number of spices, including ginger and nutmeg. It typically includes fish and sometimes beef as well. It can be eaten alongside meat or fish as well as plantain. This dish, like fufu, can be found in other West African countries.

Waakye (pronounced watchay) - This is a hearty bean and rice dish that often accompanies a stew. It is made with rice, black eyed peas, and the distinctive waakye leaf. Ground salt, called Kanwo, is used to soften the beans.

Garden Egg Stew - Garden eggs are Ghana's version of the eggplant. They are smaller and in some ways, more flavorful. This stew features the garden egg prominently, but it is tomato based and often has chiles in it as well. It is typically served with boiled plaintain. Use the pieces of boiled plaintain to scoop up the stew and eat.

Red Red - This is a flavorful dish that combines beans and fried plaintains. The beans are prepared with palm oil, crushed tomatoes, and chiles. The plaintains are fried, becoming sweeter in the process.

While Ghana's cuisine is not limited to five dishes, the above selections can be found nearly everywhere and they are almost always well prepared. Always remember to take precautions when eating food abroad. Your stomach may need time to adjust to the new foods. Don't overdo it and observe some basic guidelines to ensure GI health. Don't eat foods that are lukewarm, make sure they are hot. Don't eat fruits or vegetables unless they have been cooked or they can be peeled. Be careful, but don't be afraid to immerse yourself in another culture and enjoy the delicious food!

Phil Paoletta currently traveling West Africa in search of good food, good music, and interesting people.
http://philintheblank.net.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Phillip_Paoletta

Tasty And Healthy Duck

Compiled by the Weekly

Duck porridge, a popular dish throughout, can cure edema
Duck has long been prepared into delicious dishes, many of which can help cure illnesses

Raised throughout Vietnam, duck is a food rich in protein, lipid, calcium, phosphorus and iron. Duck eggs are also a nutritional food that has vitamins B1, B2 and PP. Fertilized duck eggs are a favorite snack and a nutritious food of quite a few Vietnamese people.

In traditional Vietnamese medicine, duck is considered to be sweet and mild, and good for the spleen, stomach, lungs and kidneys. The poultry flesh is thus used to boost digestion, facilitate urination, detoxify the body, and treat asthenia, anorexia, dysentery, constipation, edema, diabetes, fever and dry skin and hair.

Duck eggs are considered to be sweet and good for the lungs. The egg is often used to treat coughing, sore throat, toothache and diarrhea.

Some dishes of duck that cure

Prepare porridge with a duck (a male one is better) and a little rice. When the porridge is well done, add a little squeezed Welsh onion and spices. Eat the porridge on an empty stomach to relieve edema. This dish is very popular throughout the country, especially when the duck meat is served with fish sauce blended with ginger, chili, garlic and sugar.

Stuff a little cordyceps mushroom (available at many tradition medicine stores), ginger and onion into a duck. Add spices and a little wine. Steam the duck for about two hours. Eat this dish to treat asthma, sweating and backache.

Peel and squeeze garlic and stuff it into a duck. Steam the duck until it is well done. Add a little ginger, pepper, onion and spices. Intake of this dish can help accelerate urination and thus can cure edema.

Duck steamed with a little ginseng, bch qu (Ginkgo biloba), lotus seeds and jujubes is a recommended dish for those suffering from anemia, asthenia and anorexia.

Duck steamed with red beans and a little tho qu (Amomum tsaoko), onion and ginger can be used to treat headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting and edema.

Steam a duck with a little sa sâm (Radix Glehniae), ngc trúc (Rhizona polygonati odorati), these herbs are also available at many medicinal herb stores, and spices. Eat the dish to treat constipation and diabetes.
Boil ngân nh, also known as mc nh trng (Tremella fuciformis) mushroom, well; add a duck egg and a little rock sugar then stir well and boil the mixture again. Add spices and eat this soup to cure coughing, sore throat and loss of voice.

Boil fertilized duck eggs and eat the eggs with a little ginger, rau rm (Persicaria odorata) and peppered salt. This delicious and nutritious snack can help treat anemia, asthenia, headache and dizziness. It is also good for post-operation patients.

Friday, 20 August 2010

Chinese Traditional Snack

Old Beijing Eats

Old Beijing Fried Brown Sauce Noodles King (Lao Beijing Zha Jiang Mian Da Wang )

On entering, shop assistants might surprise you by their loud cries of welcome, a ritual following old Beijing tradition.

The restaurant is decorated with traditional Beijing paintings and done out with local furniture. In addition to characteristic Beijing dishes, fried brown sauce noodles are a big attraction here.

Location: No 29 Chongwenmen Waidajie, Chongwen District, Tel: (86-10) 6705-6705

  • Yi Wan Ju

Location: No 5, Area 4, Anhuili, Asian Games Village, 200 metres to the east of Asian Games Village Post Office, Tel: (86-10) 6491-1258

  • Da Cai Lou

Location: No 8 Beitoutiao, Tuanjiehu, Chaoyang District, Tel: (86-10)-6582-1916

  • Hai Wan Ju

    Location: 5/F, Ganjiakou Mansion, Haidian District,
    Tel: (86-10) 8839-2073
  • Fu Jia Lou

Decorated in a typical Beijing style and serving Beijing-style food, the restaurant offers a wide variety of local dishes and traditional snacks. This serves more dishes than average noodles restaurants.

Location: No 23 Dongsi Shitiao, 200 metres to the west of Poly Plaza, Dongcheng District, Tel: (86-10) 8403-7831

  • Dao Jia Chang

Location: No 20 North of Guangximen, east side of Ito Yokado Shilipu Store, Chaoyang District, Tel: (86-10) 6557-0115

"Fish-flavored Eggplant in Hot Sauce" -Chinese food


  • 500 grams eggplant
  • 1 (1/6 tsp) gram salt
  • 20 grams (4 tsp) broad bean sauce from Pixian County, Sichuan Province (if not available, other chile sauce can be substituted)
  • 25 (4.5 tsp) grams sugar
  • 15 (3 tsp) grams vinegar
  • 15 (3 tsp) grams soy sauce
  • 15 grams (3 tsp) rice wine
  • 20 grams (4 tsp) mixture of cornstarch and water
  • 500 grams (35 tbsp) cooking oil
  • 50 grams (2 oz) mixture of minced scallions, ginger and garlic

Peel the eggplant, slice into 2cm cubes, and score the skins with a knife. Chop up the scallions, garlic and ginger. In a large bowl, combine the salt, sugar, vinegar, soy sauce, rice wine and cornstarch mixture. Put aside for later use and mince the broad bean sauce.

In a wok deep fry eggplants until golden yellow, remove and drain. Heat a little oil in the wok and cook the ginger, scallion, garlic and broad bean sauce until aromatic. Add the cornstarch mixture sauce and eggplant and stir fry until finely mixed with other ingredients. Serve.

Features: This savory dish has hints of sweet, spicy and sour flavors.