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One Good Day

One Good Day in Santiago

September 6, 2023 No Comments

So, you’re traveling to the big Chile, and you’ve booked a hotel in Santiago, but you don’t know what to do when you get there? Don’t worry; I’ve spent plenty of aimless days in Santiago so I could recommend one Good Day in Santiago to you!

Really Good Day tip: If you want to boost your day from Good to Really Good make a reservation at Ambrosia Bistro for dinner before you go out today. This may very well be one of the best restaurants you’ll find in South America. You owe it to yourself to try the food once! Make sure to emphasize you want indoor seating, my readers shouldn’t eat on the street.

Interior of Ambrosia Bistro is tight so make a reservation

Start Your Day

Hop on some sort of public transportation, the Metro in Santiago is excellent and really easy to use but you can hop on a bus or taxi just as well if the metro isn’t near your lodging. Make sure to buy a BIP card if you choose to ride the Metro. Head on over to the Parque Forestal. If you’re taking the Metro that’ll be either the Universidad Catolica stop or the Bellas Artes stop, but you should prioritize Universidad Catolica. Once you exit at the station and start walking towards the park, I recommend you find a coffee shop nearby on a street called José Victorino Lastarria. This is also an ideal street to come back to if you have another night in Santiago. You’ll see Lastarria is full of restaurants, cafes, and historical significance which works for day or night activities. Here’s an excellent guide for just this neighborhood if you want to explore more.

Make it to the park and take in the sights and sounds of the city. This is a lovely part of town and as long as the weather permits, I recommend you find a bench or a spot in the grass to chill for 15-20 minutes.

Alright, now that you’ve meditated and aligned your chakras or whatever, you’re ready to see some cool stuff. Walk across the park to the Museo de Bellas Artes. It’s completely free and has some amazing art you can take silly pics with, like this:

Museo Nacional de las Bellas Artes, Santiago Chile

Pretty cool huh? Take some time here to enjoy the art, take some pics, and maybe learn something. It’s not a requirement for a Good day, but sometimes I feel better after I learn something, even if it hurts my brain.

Lunch Time

Okay, that was cool, let’s grab some lunch! May I humbly suggest Cafe De La Barra right across the street from the museum? Depending on your taste, this place may be what you’re looking for, it’s humble offerings of some Chilean staples. Spoiler alert: Chilean staples means fried or grilled meat with a version of a potato. Try it with a Pisco Sour. Why not, you’re probably on vacation, just live a little for once in your sad blue/white collar life! If you’re looking for something a little more high end, with a wow-factor in the interior, look no further than Bar Liguria Lastarria. The interior feels like walking into a grand 1950s movie set, meanwhile the food is anything but stale. Cazuela de Vaca is a typical Chilean soup here, sure to soothe your soul here in the winter seasons.

After Lunch

After lunch we’ll have one more museum. I know what you’re thinking: “Museums are lame, they’re boring, they’re for retirees that have nothing better to do, I already did one and it was alright but I’m not burning a whole day in Santiago on museums”. Alright, fair enough, but this one is special. I’m not much for a museum person either, but this museum is not only free, it’s good!

It’s not exactly Burning Man but it’s a really good museum, give it a shot. Plus, did I mention the museum is free? We’re going to the Museum of Memory and Human Rights.

I’m going to suggest we arrive via the Metro line because the metro station is actually connected to the entrance of the museum, so you can hop off the train and arrive at the stairs to the museum. We’re gonna get off at the Quinta Normal stop. Walk up the stairs and once you’re outside, turn left, the entrance is at the bottom of the big rectangular block that is the museum.

Outside Museum of Memory and Human Rights

Now, the museum is free but if you want an English, self-guided, explanation of the museum you’ll need to “donate”. Just drop five bucks cheap-o, it’s worth it.

In this museum, you’ll learn about the events that lead up to the 1973 coup d’etat and what happened during the 20+ year military dictatorship that followed. It’s truly heart wrenching what many people in Chile lived through and is a great testament to how resilient people can be, living through uncertain times and making the most of their situation. I love this museum because it provides its guests a well told story of difficult to understand events. It’s especially shocking to see that many of the places you walked through today are historically significant areas in the history of Chile’s military dictatorship just a few decades earlier.

Alright, that was heavy, but I’m glad we did it. Good job, team. I say we’ve earned ourselves a treat. We have a little “choose-your-own-adventure” coming up now.

Last Activity

We have two options: the Yuppy-tourist option, or the Free-spirit-nomad option.

Yuppy-tourist: View + Dinner

Free-spirit-nomad: View + Hike

Yuppy-tourist Option

Yuppy-tourist option will involve another metro trip, this time we’re going to the Tobalaba metro station. We need to get to the Costanera building. The Costanera is the tallest building in Latin America and the view from the top is amazing + available to the general pubic. I’m recommending this option assuming you still have an hour of sunlight left or so, I want you to take in the view during the day, this option is available during the summer months more so than the winter.

Need tickets to get to the top of the Costanera Tower

To get to the top of the Costanera building, first make your way to the building itself. It’s really hard to miss. Enter into the mall at the base of the tower and descend the mall until you reach the bottom floor. From here, depending on where you entered you’ll need to walk around the mall a bit to find the entrance for “Sky Costanera”. Once you find the smallish entrance you’ll enter into a line to buy tickets (~$16/person) and wait for the elevator to take you up. It’s freaky fast. You have an unlimited amount of time up there but you have to wait for the elevator to take you down so it can actually take a while to leave once you’re up there.

Now that you had the best view in South America (probably, I dunno), you’re ready to have dinner and rest those poor feet.

Yuppy-Dinner

Now, time to end your Good day. Like I mentioned earlier, if you wanted a Really Good Day you would have set up a reservation for yourself at Ambrosia Bistro. You can either take a 15 minute walk there from the Costanera or you can order an uber. When you get there order something with pork belly in it, you probably won’t regret it. Otherwise, if you didn’t get a reservation at Ambrosia Bistro, you can find a restaurant in the Costanera mall or in a nearby neighborhood. I’d recommend walking down the street of Isidora Goyenechea to find an excellent restaurant with amazing cocktails.

Free-spirit-nomad Option

Free-spirit-nomad option will include some fantastic views as well but in a much different environment. You’re going to head over to the entrance of the National Zoo at the base of the metropolitan park of Santiago. I don’t know how you’re going to get there, maybe you take the bus, maybe you steal someone’s bike? Regardless, once you get to the Zoo entrance don’t go in, instead you walk over to the Funicular de Santiago by Turistik.

The funicular is a quick ride that drops you off near the top of the hill in the heart of Santiago. You’ll have some truly breathtaking views where the funicular drops you off, wow, I’m already jealous. Now, you need to walk up a bunch of stairs to the summit of the hill. You can tell you’re getting close because there’s a massive 50ft Virgin Mary statue at the top of the hill looking down at you. If you really need directions plug Cerro San Cristobal into Google Maps. Climb all the way to the feet of the statue.

By the way, I was assuming you still have some daylight left when you’re at the funicular because there are no lights at the top, so try to leave before it gets really dark or bring a headlamp. Don’t blame me if you miss a step in the dark and crack your head.

Now you’re going to hike down the hill and make friends with a bunch of locals hiking down with you. Oh yeah, I forgot to mention the last funicular goes down long before sunset so you’re only way down is on foot. Don’t worry though, you’re a Free-spirit-nomad built to survive this 3.8KM stroll down the hill. You’ll laugh and sing songs with the locals walking down the hill with you, you’ll also be in awe of the amazing views of the metropolis beneath you. Santiago is massive!

You’ll probably be able to wave hello at the last of the Yuppy-tourists at the top of the Costanera tower waiting in line for the single elevator that can take them down to safety. What are the odds both of you are in your respective journey’s today based off of my advice? Pretty humbling to think people rely on me for any sort of advice, especially on how to spend their time. Also sort of terrifying, why would you listen to me? Go do your own thing, make mistakes, sing karaoke, get lost in the woods, set fire to something, or just stay at home and read some more travel blogs; just make sure you’re doing what you want to do!

I digress, assuming you made it down the hill alive and without being robbed (above average chance of that happening tonight BTW, what?) you’ll need to look for food. We’ve come to the end of our Good day! If you wanted a Really Good Day you would’ve gotten yourself a reservation at Ambrosia Bistro but something tells me if you’re reading this Free-spirit-nomad section you don’t have an appreciation for the finer things in life and you don’t even know how to book yourself a reservation.

Free-spirit-nomad Dinner

It’s dinner time in Santiago and there’s so many great options for a free spirit like yourself, why don’t you wrangle up some local llamas and mozzie on over to the Barrio Italia. If llamas are not available for some bizarre reason, can take the metro and exit at the Santa Isabel or Salvador stops. You can wander the wild blocks of Ave. Italia looking for a place that serves sanguchito con papas al a pobres. That’s Spanish for sandwich with poverty fries you dumb tourist. Try out Barbazul Barrio Italia or Bar & Vuelvo, and order three more piscos before you make it home tonight, provecho!

Go Home

Alright that pretty much wraps things up for today, let’s go back to the Airbnb, my feet hurt.

Destinations

Where to eat in Vancouver

August 14, 2023 No Comments

Must Try Food For Your Trip to Vancouver

Intro

Vancouver is special for the foodie world because of the density of high end, critically acclaimed restaurants within the city. It’s home to 12 Bib Gourmand restaurants and 8 one-star Michelin restaurants. This means, if you stay within Vancouver proper you’ll have access to 20 Michelin guide restaurants within 30 minutes walking distance. Trust me, in the summer you’ll want to walk, the weather here is amazing! Now, onto the guide.

Yaletown

Tasty Indian

The vibes, the atmosphere, stupendous. The food and drinks, relatable. You’ll enjoy Tasty Indian because the Yuppy modern interior betrays an intense expertise of Indian cuisine. You’ve never had a paneer quite like this. The Tandoori Paneer Tikka is gonna light up your day and give you something to write home about. If you happen to come during lunch hours, enjoy a very generous veg or non-veg Thali, here known as a lunch tray. The Thali comes loaded with dahl, two pieces of tandoori (grilled) chicken, garlic naan, and your choice of butter chicken (my choice) or lamb curry. All this for less than $20 USD!

RV’s Butter Chicken

If you want a more laid back atmosphere that harkens to your days of eating tikka masala in a roadside restaurant in the heart of your favorite Indian city then you need to make your way RV’s Butter Chicken. They have none of the frills of Tasty Indian but all the heart and talent. Personally I’m obsessed with their Paneer Tikka Masala, but their naan alone is worth the hike. You’ll also be impressed with their spicy chili chicken wings, that’ll leave you regretting you ever put BBQ sauce on a piece of chicken. It’s time to nut up and go to RV’s fam.

Honey Brew

Honey Brew is plain and simple the best dessert spot in Vancouver. Yes! There are a lot of good spots in Vancouver to get dessert. The problem is, they close early and don’t have strudel!!!! If you know what’s good for you, you’ll walk over to Honey Brew at 9:30 PM, while the sun is still out in Vancouver, and order yourself a strawberry & rhubarb strudel with ice cream and whip cream. Maybe get yourself a coffee, go crazy, it’s your world we’re just living in it. The point is, Honey Brew is open for late night rendezvous with the strudel of your choosing. If that isn’t good enough for you, I think you need to assess your priorities.

Happy Noodle House

If you need a quick hit of Xiao Long Bao, Happy Noodle House is more than willing to oblige. You’ll need a lot of time because they have a well endowed waitlist and are short on dining space. What’s great about Happy Noodle is their ability to serve up Chinese classics without having to travel to Chinatown or Burnaby. While they may be in the heart of gentrified Vancouver they still serve up the hits as good as the rest of them.

Xiao Long Bao!!!!

Gastown/Chinatown

Hy’s Chophouse

Hy’s is going to be your go-to for special occasion dinners, or if you just want a proper steak during your stay in Vancouver. Hy’s a steakhouse’s steakhouse filled with old world knick-knacks and do an unconvincing job of fooling into thinking you’re an earl of a small plot of land in the county of Essex. The interior screams “quiet luxury” and the food is exceptional. If you insist, get a 16oz ribeye, but if you want to pamper yourself, get the steak au pouvoir. One of the really fun parts of Hy’s is their commitment to making you feel like that dirty duke in Robin Hood stories. Order the Bananas Foster and enjoy a very exciting table sideshow full of flames and steel. You’re gonna feel good when you leave Hy’s!

Black Rice Izakaya

Do you like sushi? Congrats you’re a basic Yuppy. Now, do you like exploring some of the furthest reaches sushi can take you? If so, you should mail it in to Black Rice Izakaya. They have some of the most excellent cuts of sushi I’ve ever had. This is all very surprising considering their humble circumstances. Black Rice isn’t trying to impress anyone, they just are. Come on over for great sushi, reasonable prices, and no-frills interiors.

Kissa Tanto

Wow, wow, wow. I don’t think I’ve ever fallen in love with a restaurant faster in my life. Just wandering through Chinatown, you would never spot Kissa Tanto. It’s a hole in the wall that quickly blooms into a Michelin guide restaurant as soon as you begin ascending the set of stairs that greets you at the entrance. When you arrive at the summit, you’re greeted by a funny scene. It’s similar to a high-class, candle-lit, 5-star-hotel, diner. The food is a fusion of Japanese and Italian. They have a ribeye that’s to die for but honestly anything on the menu is going to make you nostalgic for this night whenever you return to your sad corporate or blue-collar life. Arrive after 9PM and make sure you get a martini or negroni, it’s one of those places.

Burnaby

Crystal Mall

Do you like Chinese food? Do you like a lot of Chinese food? Do you like a lot of Chinese food all at once? Do you like saving money? Well hop on a long-ass metro ride to Crystal Mall. You’re going to get off at Metrotown station and you’ll walk yourself to the food court on the second floor of Crystal Mall. From there, order the best Xiao Long Bao of your life, the best Chinese BBQ combo of your life, and a wonton soup to cap things off. Seriously though, please order as much food as you think two of yourself can eat. It’s excellent and cheap food!

Chung Chun

On your walk to Crystal Mall, make a quick stop at Chung Chun and order a mozzarella rice dog. You’re welcome!

North Vancouver

Tap & Barrel

If you want to soak in the city’s great views, take a ferry ride across Vancouver Harbor to North Vancouver. Once you’re there, hit up Tap & Barrel for a killer view of the city, especially when the clock strikes 9 PM and their late happy hour kicks in. Now, the real deal is their Happy Hour steak frites – trust me, it’s a mouthwatering dish. And here’s a tip: pair that bad boy with their happy hour red wine recommendation, and you’re in for a great hang. Tap & Barrel gets how to blend good food, epic views, and prices that won’t break your piggy bank. It’s a spot you don’t want to skip, whether you’re a local legend or just passing through.

Squamish

Watershed Grill

If you’re one of the thousands of people who do the drive to Whistler for a day trip on Saturday or Sunday, think about stopping for lunch/dinner at the Watershed Grill. The food is decent, they can’t mess it up. The reason to stop here is not for the mediocre bar food, it’s for the gorgeous views of the Squamish river. Most places you can stop along the way to Whistler are gonna be pretty basic but none of them have this view! Trust me, stop at Watershed and plop yourself on one of the picnic benches along the river bank.

Kitsilano

Vij’s

Honestly, you may just want to move to Kitsilano, if you’re a food lover. It has a high concentration of Michelin guide restaurants, the best of which is clearly Vij’s. The dishes here were all new to me, something I always love to see. I also hate it when upscale restaurants jip you on the food, don’t worry Vij’s is far from this case. The whole vibe here is just like hanging out in your rich, Indian, besties living room while his mom cooks you dinner after school. The naan bread is so fluffy and doesn’t stop coming; you will leave Vij’s nice and stuffed! If you’re a non-veg person, do yourself a favor and order the lamb popsicles. If you are veg, God bless ya, get yourself a samosa the size of your heart! It’s a rare person who wouldn’t enjoy Vij’s, so make sure to get a reservation in advance.

Beautiful view of the kitchen from the entry way and bar

Delara

Another Michelin guide restaurant in Kitsilano, I’m telling you, Vancouver is stacked. I truly think Delara is best enjoyed in the day. There’s a lot of natural light pouring into this restaurant and it creates a laid back and happy atmosphere to enjoy lunch or an early dinner in Vancouver. Get acquainted with the interesting and subtle flavors or Delara. The food here is complicated and pretty to look at, but is also hearty. Don’t worry, you’re gonna walk out of Delara feeling satisfied. I’d recommend a dish that comes with the Crispy Saffron rice. Months later I’m still thinking about that rice, and so will you!

Victoria

Fantan Cafe

There’s a lot of generic restaurants and breweries to check out in Victoria and if that’s more your speed then more power to you. For those interested in a more local connection think about visiting the Chinatown in Victoria. On the main drag of Chinatown you’ll find a very funky store front. Inside the funky storefront are some of the best noodles you’ll have in Canada. Fantan Cafe has got a small interior so I’d recommend taking the noods to-go. If you’re trying to avoid soy like I am, order the Singapore Rice Noodles with chicken. I love the curry taste of these noodles and they’re not as heavy/greasy as most other stir fried noodle dishes.

America

13 Must-Try Restaurants in Los Angeles

June 24, 2023 No Comments

1. A Taste of Cuba at Versailles: A Gastronomic Delight

Versailles, an underrated gem, transports diners to the vibrant streets of Cuba with its authentic and savory culinary offerings. This culinary haven offers an array of delectable dishes that will leave you craving for more.

Start your journey with the Maduros, sweet and caramelized ripe plantains that serve as a delightful introduction to Cuban cuisine. For a beginner-friendly option, the Fried Pork Chunks are a must-try, boasting a perfect balance of crispy exterior and tender meat.

If you’re feeling adventurous, indulge in the Braised Oxtail, a truly delightful dish that showcases Versailles’ commitment to excellence. The melt-in-your-mouth tenderness combined with a flavorful sauce will undoubtedly satisfy your taste buds.

For a shared plate with friends, the Yuca with mojo is a fantastic choice. These golden and crispy yuca sticks, accompanied by the zesty mojo sauce, are a perfect complement to the flavors offered at Versailles.

To end your culinary journey on a sweet note, savor the Tres Leches cake, a heavenly dessert soaked in three milks that will transport you to dessert paradise.

Versailles, with its warm ambiance and attentive service, promises an unforgettable dining experience. Allow yourself to be captivated by the authentic flavors of Cuba at Versailles at any location in Los Angeles.

2. Thien Huong: A Bahn Mi Haven in the Heart of Chinatown

Thien Huong, a hidden gem tucked away in vibrant Chinatown, takes Bahn Mi to celestial heights, leaving an indelible mark on your taste buds.

Prepare for a Vietnamese odyssey as you embark on Thien Huong’s culinary adventure. Each mouthwatering bite of their Bahn Mi is a symphony of textures and flavors, encased in a perfectly crusty exterior. From the first glorious crunch to the last lingering taste, your senses will be captivated by the succulent fillings, crisp veggies, and an orchestra of zesty condiments that dance on your palate.

But Thien Huong is not just about the food; its prime location adds to the enchantment. After savoring your Bahn Mi masterpiece, take a leisurely stroll to the bustling market just across the street. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere, where the eclectic shops and cultural tapestry of Chinatown weave a vibrant tapestry.

Whether you opt for the savory chicken or the succulent pork Bahn Mi, Thien Huong’s sandwiches are crafted with love and unmatched flavor. Each bite is a transcendental experience that will leave you yearning for more.

Thien Huong exudes local charm, inviting you to unwind in its cozy embrace while relishing in a truly exceptional bite. For an unforgettable, authentic journey through Bahn Mi perfection, venture to Thien Huong in the heart of Chinatown.

3. Yang Chow: A Dumpling Haven with Local Charm

Yang Chow, a hidden gem in Chinatown, offers a culinary adventure that centers around the art of dumplings. With the reputation for serving the best soup dumplings in the area, Yang Chow is a must-visit for dumpling enthusiasts seeking an unforgettable dining experience. The delicate dumpling wrappers encase savory broth, creating a burst of flavor with each bite. As an added treat, Yang Chow provides excellent Jasmine tea at no extra charge, enhancing the overall enjoyment of the meal.

Aside from the sensational soup dumplings, the Pan Fried dumplings steal the spotlight with their perfect balance of crispiness and succulent fillings. The delectable flavors are further enhanced by the vibrant snow peas, which add a refreshing element to the feast.

Beyond the culinary delights, the interior of Yang Chow exudes a local charm that immerses diners in the authentic ambiance of Chinatown. Whether you choose the main location or the one situated on the bustling main drag, the warm and welcoming atmosphere ensures a delightful dining experience.

Embark on a dumpling-filled journey at Yang Chow, where the impeccable soup dumplings, delicious Pan Fried dumplings, and vibrant snow peas await. This hidden gem in Chinatown will transport your taste buds and immerse you in a delightful fusion of flavors, all within the cozy embrace of local charm.

4. Perch: Breathtaking Views and Culinary Delights

Perch is an extraordinary dining destination that combines breathtaking views with a menu that is both intriguing and thoughtfully crafted. Start with the super savory pork belly, a dish that demands your undivided attention with its rich flavors and small portion size that’s best enjoyed solo. The octopus has also garnered a strong following, winning the hearts of diners with its tender and tantalizing preparation.

For meat lovers, the Bouillabaisse is a standout recommendation, boasting a flavorful medley of seafood in a hearty stew. Don’t hesitate to order the Boeuf Bordelaise, a dish that showcases the culinary expertise of Perch with its succulent beef and delightful Bordeaux wine sauce.

While savoring the culinary delights, don’t forget to indulge in the artfully crafted cocktails that perfectly complement the breathtaking views. Securing a reservation is strongly advised. Don’t miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in this remarkable dining experience that seamlessly combines awe-inspiring vistas, remarkable cuisine, and attentive service. Perch offers an unparalleled fusion of stunning views and culinary delights, making it an ideal destination for those seeking an unforgettable dining experience.

5. Sosta: An Unforgettable Italian Culinary Journey

Sosta is an exquisite culinary gem in Hermosa Beach that delivers an unrivaled Italian dining experience. With an ambiance that radiates excellence and an attentive staff well-versed in the art of Italian cuisine, Sosta promises a truly unforgettable evening.

Prepare to be enchanted by the exceptional flavors that await you. While the truffle fettuccine is a standout choice, the lamb and New York Strip offer equally enticing options for those with hearty appetites. The menu showcases the culinary prowess of Sosta, ensuring that each bite is a masterpiece of flavor.

Although cocktails are not available, the generous pours of red and white Aperol Spritz add a refreshing touch to your meal, perfectly complementing the Italian delights on offer.

Situated at the top of a hill, Sosta presents the opportunity for a leisurely stroll to the beach before or after your reservation, adding a touch of scenic beauty to your culinary adventure.

As you embark on this gastronomic journey, keep in mind that Sosta is an experience meant to be savored. Set aside plenty of time to fully immerse yourself in the flavors and ambiance, the experience will typically lasts ~2 hours.

Sosta stands as a testament to the exceptional Italian cuisine, offering an intimate and unforgettable dining experience.

6. Seong Buk Dong: Unveiling Korean Culinary Excellence

Seong Buk Dong, located in the vibrant neighborhood of K-Town Los Angeles, is a culinary gem that promises an extraordinary exploration of Korean cuisine. Prepare to be dazzled by their Galbi Jjim, a dish that transcends expectations and delights the senses.

The Galbi Jjim at Seong Buk Dong is a revelation of flavors. The tender, succulent meat, marinated to perfection, offers a mouthwatering experience that showcases the culinary expertise of the kitchen.

Immerse yourself in the inviting ambiance of Seong Buk Dong, nestled in the heart of K-Town. The warm atmosphere and attentive service create an inviting space for an unforgettable dining experience.

The menu also features delightful options like the traditional Pork Bulgogi, offering a tantalizing blend of sweet and savory flavors that embody the essence of Korean cuisine.

After indulging in the culinary delights, explore the vibrant surroundings of K-Town. Discover nearby establishments like Dan Sung Sa for a refreshing drink or Kiss Kiss Bang Bang for a memorable nightcap.

Seong Buk Dong is a culinary destination that deserves recognition for its commitment to delivering exceptional Korean cuisine. Let their Galbi Jjim be your gateway to an unforgettable journey through the rich and vibrant flavors of Korea at Seong Buk Dong.

7. Pijja Palace: Where Indian Flavors Meet Bar Food Delights

Pijja Palace offers a unique and tantalizing dining experience by combining Indian flavors with the concept of bar food. Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will redefine your perception of Indian cuisine.

One dish that stands out at Pijja Palace is the Dosa Onion Rings. These delectable treats take the classic onion ring to new heights, featuring a crispy dosa batter that adds an irresistible Indian twist. Next, prepare to have your taste buds blown away by the Red Wings. These wings are a game-changer, delivering robust flavors that will forever change your wing-eating experience.

When it comes to their pizzas, Pijja Palace doesn’t disappoint. Whether you opt for the Paneer Pizza with its creamy Indian cheese or the Northern Makhini Tikka Chicken Pizza featuring a tantalizing blend of spices, each bite is a celebration of unique flavors and culinary innovation.

Pijja Palace is a cool and stylish destination where you can enjoy the flavors of India while immersing yourself in the lively atmosphere of a sports bar. Pijja Palace is a must-visit for those seeking a culinary journey that fuses Indian flavors with bar food delights. Step in and let your taste buds be transported to new realms of flavor exploration. Make sure to book your reservation at midnight 7 days before you plan to go.

8. Toe Bang: Where Unique Service Meets Unique Soju Cocktails

Toe Bang, a cozy hole in the wall, offers an exceptional night out with service so superb it’s practically supernatural. Prepare to be enchanted by its warm and chummy atmosphere that practically begs you to make new BFFs in its snug quarters.

The staff at Toe Bang are more than just friendly faces—they’re hospitality wizards, conjuring up an experience you won’t soon forget. With their extensive knowledge and infectious passion, they’ll have you feeling like the star of your own dining adventure. And let’s not forget the star of the show: the soju cocktails. These magical elixirs are a delightful departure from the ordinary, taking traditional soju to a whole new level of deliciousness.

Toe Bang’s intimate quarters create the perfect backdrop for forging new friendships. Embrace the close quarters and revel in the camaraderie of your fellow diners. Whether you’re kickstarting a night on the town or seeking a memorable spot to wind down, Toe Bang is your spirited sanctuary.

Toe Bang is a truly crusty bar where exceptional service, unique soju cocktails, and finger-licking fried chicken converge for an unforgettable experience. Step into this cozy haven and let the revelry begin.

9. Massilia: Where European Flavors and Instagram-Worthy Ambiance Collide

Massilia, located in Santa Monica, is a restaurant that not only adds street cred to the area but also boasts the best vibes in LA, making it a must-visit for culinary and social media enthusiasts. Step into this European-inspired establishment and prepare for a feast that will tantalize your taste buds.

The interior of Massilia is an Instagrammer’s dream, with stylish and visually captivating decor that will make your dining experience even more memorable. It’s the perfect place to bring your influencer friends and capture stunning photos while indulging in delectable dishes.

When it comes to the menu, don’t miss out on the Ratatouille. This dish surpasses the fame of the movie. For those seeking pasta perfection, the Tagliatelle Aux Morilles is an absolute must-try. Its delicate flavors will leave a lasting impression on your palate. If you’re in the mood for something heartier, the 8-hour Lamb Shank is a standout choice. With its melt-in-your-mouth tenderness and rich flavors, this dish will keep you satisfied for days.

Massilia combines European flavors with a trendy and inviting ambiance. Enjoy an experience that’s visually captivating. Prepare to be wowed by the best pasta in Santa Monica and indulge in a culinary journey that will leave you craving for more at Massilia.

10. Ospi: A Cool Pasta Haven in Vibrant Venice

Ospi, located in the vibrant neighborhood of Venice, is a culinary gem that offers an array of pasta options in a cool and inviting atmosphere. As one of the classiest dining destinations on the West side of LA, Ospi delights pasta lovers with its exceptional flavors and stylish ambiance.

Step into Ospi and be embraced by the cool vibes that infuse the restaurant. The unique “bring your own bottles” concept adds a personal touch, allowing you to enjoy your favorite libations alongside the delectable dishes.

The menu at Ospi boasts a standout dish—the Lemon Tagliolini. This divine creation harmonizes the refreshing zest of lemon with perfectly cooked crab, creating a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more. For those seeking a fiery kick, the Linguine delivers with its tantalizing spice and robust flavors. Each forkful is a delight for the senses, making it a close contender for a memorable pasta experience.

After savoring the culinary delights at Ospi, take a leisurely stroll on world famous Venice beach, just a block away. The coastal scenery provides the ideal backdrop for great vibes and relaxation. Ospi promises an unforgettable dining experience in the heart of Venice.

11. Millet Crepe: Dessert Delights in the Heart of Sawtelle

Millet Crepe, a window-serve dessert shop in the bustling neighborhood of Sawtelle, is a haven for sweet-toothed enthusiasts. Indulge in their must-try specialty, the Crepe Brulee—a delectable treat that will leave you craving for more. The long queues speak volumes about the quality of their offerings. It’s undoubtedly the best pure dessert shop in all of West LA. If the Crepe Brulee feels too indulgent, opt for a regular crepe, but don’t forget to savor it with the creamy custard filling. Millet Crepe is a delightful destination for dessert lovers, where every bite brings sheer delight and satisfaction.

12. Galbi King: Korean BBQ Delights in West LA

Galbi King, situated just outside the bustling Sawtelle district, offers an exceptional Korean BBQ experience. Prepare to indulge in endless meat, where the tantalizing aromas and flavors of their expertly cooked dishes will leave you craving for more. Sit back, relax, and savor the spicy galbi while enjoying your favorite soju flavor.

What more can be said about this fantastic Korean BBQ spot? It stands as the finest option for KBBQ on the west side of LA, delivering a delectable feast that is sure to satisfy your cravings. Don’t hesitate to order a generous amount of food, as you’ll find yourself relishing every bite.

13. Nong La Cafe: A Westside Gem for Authentic Vietnamese Cuisine

Nong La Cafe stands as a beacon for Vietnamese food enthusiasts, offering some of the best Pho on the Westside. Prepare to be captivated by the rich and flavorful broth that takes their Pho to new heights. The Bahn mi sandwiches are equally impressive, boasting a delightful combination of fresh ingredients and savory fillings.

For an extraordinary Pho experience, don’t miss the opportunity to try the beef rib option. The tender and succulent meat adds an extra dimension to the already exceptional flavors. And when it comes to salads, the Thit Nuong noodle salad is a standout dish that will leave a lasting impression.

With their exceptional Pho, impressive Bahn mi, and standout dishes like the Thit Nuong, this westside gem is a must-visit for food lovers seeking an unforgettable Vietnamese dining experience.

Bonus: A Cut Above, Where Butchery Meets Culinary Excellence

A Cut Above has left such a profound impression that it deserves this bonus review. A Cut Above is more than just a butcher shop—it’s a hidden gem that delivers an exceptional sandwich experience. While primarily known for its top-notch cuts of meat, this place also serves sandwiches that will leave you abandoned in flavor town.

Although renowned for their excellent cuts of meat, the sandwiches alone are worth the journey. And if you find yourself unsure of which one to choose, the Cubano is an absolute must-try. Prepare to have your sandwich expectations shattered as each bite transports you to flavor heaven. The craftsmanship and quality of ingredients are unparalleled, making every sandwich a delectable masterpiece.

With its combination of outstanding meats and mouthwatering sandwiches, it has truly carved a place in the hearts of food enthusiasts.

Travel Tips

Mountains at This Time of The Year in California

May 14, 2016 3 Comments

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Europe

My Travel Adventures in The Santorini Island

May 14, 2016 3 Comments

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America

Busy Street Life of The Small Towns

May 14, 2016 3 Comments

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Destinations

The Awe-Inspiring St Paul’s Cathedral

May 14, 2016 3 Comments

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America

Beautiful Hut Covered in Lush Green Trees

May 14, 2016 3 Comments

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Destinations

Mist All Around The Golden Gate Bridge

May 14, 2016 3 Comments

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Destinations

A Calm Comes Over The Lake This Month

May 14, 2016 3 Comments

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