Vignettes of Yountville, Day Two

April 22, 2016February 28, 2018 by Michelle Rae, posted in Food, North America, Wander

Day two in Yountville didn’t start out well for us. We came out to one of the vineyards up on the hills early Saturday morning with Napa Valley Aloft for a hot air balloon ride (and a champaign breakfast after), but the weather had other plans. We were hoping it would clear up, spending our time taking photos of the fog-covered vineyards and half blown-up balloons while waiting. But the fog just got thicker by the minute.

Our guides were very apologetic though (although it’s hard to blame them, the weather can be unpredictable), and they made up for it by having unbelievably delicious Bouchon chocolate cupcakes waiting for us when we got back. And we still enjoyed the view.

Hot Air Ballooning with Napa Valley Aloft (Photo: Michelle Rae Uy)

Hot Air Ballooning with Napa Valley Aloft (Photo: Michelle Rae Uy)

Bicycle Ride Around Yountville

With our hot air ballon ride canceled and it being too late to go back to bed, we had to find another way to spend our Saturday morning. Luckily our hotel (North Block Hotel) lets guests use their cruiser bikes for free, so we decided to explore the town on them.

We rode our borrowed bicycles along Washington Street past the main strip and the town limit to where the vineyards are, and then on the bike path along St. Helena. The bike ride was a lovely experience, and certainly a good way to see the rest of Yountville.

Yountville (Photo: Michelle Rae Uy)

Yountville (Photo: Michelle Rae Uy)

Richard Reddington’s Redd Wood

The bike ride was also a fantastic way to work up an appetite. Afterwards, we had a light but super tasty breakfast at Chef Richard Reddington’s Redd Wood, complimentary of North Block Hotel: eggs (sunny side up and an omelet), bacon, roasted rosemary potatoes and toast. And the arugula was amazing and fresh.

Redd Wood at North Block Hotel (Photo: Michelle Rae Uy)

We also had supper there that evening; and unsurprisingly, the restaurant serves amazing dishes for dinner (much like most of the restaurants in this town… I seriously think they have a ban on bad food and bad chefs in Yountville). For starters, we had the crispy Fritto Misto that I couldn’t get enough of. We followed it up with the super light Prosciutto Crudo Pizza and amazing Shrimp Linquine. And for desert we had their yummy Pot De Creme Coffee Espuma Whip and Biscotti.

Bardessono

Before heading off to the Taste of Yountville festival, which we had tickets for, we simply had to stop by Bardessono, one of the greenest hotels in the country (that’s no exaggeration, mind you! This hotel goes out of their way to be eco-friendly, which gained them the hard-to-acheive LEEDS Platinum certification. I talk more about this in my recently published piece on eco-friendly trip ideas for Earth Day…).

Anyway, the hotel is not only very friendly to the environment, it is also beautifully designed. We had a quick tour of its grounds and buildings that blended modern simplicity with natural touches, which I absolutely loved. And they have a spa onsite too. It was smaller than the spas I’ve been too, but Yountville is all about relaxation so we simply had to squeeze in massages before we joined the festivities.

Bardessono (Photo: Michelle Rae Uy)

After our lovely massages at the Spa at Bardessono, we walked over to Washington Street, which was bustling with people. We were in town on the same weekend as the town’s annual Taste of Yountville and Yountville Live!, and having obtained complimentary tickets to both festivals (thanks to the kind folks at Fuller & Sander and the Yountville Chamber of Commerce) we decided to spend lunchtime sampling wine and food from many of the local restaurants and wineries that were participating. There were out of town participants as well.

It was a fun experience, going from one tent to another. We spent a couple of hours walking up and down the main strip, tasting different wine and samples of delectable food (even the firefighters’ tent served amazing barbecue), and chatting with some the locals.

This is day two of our Yountville adventures. Vignettes from Yountville, Day Three is coming soon. Stay tuned!

Best Ice Cream Sandwich Parlors in the US

April 10, 2016February 28, 2018 by Michelle Rae, posted in Food, North America, Wander

Sweet Republic’s assortment of ice cream sandwiches in Scottsdale (Sweet Republic)

Ice cream is arguably the one dessert that everybody, adults and kids alike, cannot help but love – maybe it’s because not only does it cool you down on hot summer days, it’s also very comforting. Or perhaps it’s partly because whatever dessert flavor your taste buds fancy, you’ll most likely find that flavor in ice cream – whether it be vanilla, chocolate, or something more unusual like honey lavender or even bacon.

With National Ice Cream Sandwich Day taking place on August 2, we’ve selected 9 of the best ice cream sandwich parlors in the country so you can properly celebrate the occasion:

MOOmers Homemade Ice Cream. Moomers has been name-dropped by many as one of the best ice cream shops in the US, and that’s hard to argue with, especially when this Traverse City ice cream paradise milks its own cows. Its cowpie ice cream sandwich, either with chocolate chip or sugar cookies, is to-die for. 7263 N Long Lake Rd. Traverse City, MI 49685; 231-941-4122.

S’mores ice cream sandwich at Coolhaus in Los Angeles (Coolhaus )

Coolhaus. This delicious LA haunt started as a food truck, but mixing unusual flavors (blueberry sweet corn, brown candied bacon) with popular cookie flavors (chocolate chip, red velvet) all wrapped into edible wrapping paper apparently works since Coolhaus blew up into a successful ice cream sandwich shop that’s a favorite with Angelenos. 8588 Washington Blvd, Culver City; 310-424-555.

Magnolia Bakery. The ice cream sandwiches are seasonal here and only available during the summer months so hurry up to this New York City bakery, which offers Ronnybrook Dairy ice cream packed between delicious cookie “buns” that come in different types, including double fudge brownie, lemon bar, and red velvet. These sandwiches are a sure treat for those humid NYC months.11 Fulton Street, New York City; 855-MBAKERY.

Sweet Republic. This all-natural, handmade artisan ice cream shop is an institution. It prides itself in using the purest local ingredients and recipes that set it apart from all the rest. And its ice cream sandwiches? Well, they’re made to order with freshly-baked cookies so that the experience of eating them is as delightful as the flavors themselves. 9160 E Shea Blvd, Scottsdale; 480-248-6979.

Fresh delivery from San Francisco’s Garden Creamery (Garden Creamery)

Garden Creamery. “Sweet cold treats made fresh,” is San Francisco’s Garden Creamery’s slogan. Much like LA’s Coolhaus, it made a name for itself in the streets as an ice cream truck. Garden Creamery’s handcrafted dairy delights are made from the freshest local ingredients; and its Classic Vanilla Mouse Oatmeal Cookie Sandwich, half dipped in chocolate, will keep kids as well as adults coming back for more. Check out the truck’s weekly schedule on their website.

Chocolate truffle with backyard mint sandwich at Jeni’s in Columbus, OH (Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams)

Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams. This Columbus, Ohio ice cream shop indeed has a splendid and surprising collection of flavors – from brambleberry to goat cheese to saison with sunflower seeds and flax. And their ice cream sandwiches come in chocolate hazelnut, chocolate truffle and mint, oatmeal, salty caramel, and even orchid vanilla. If that doesn’t make your mouth water, then what will? Find a shop near you on their website.

Diddy Riese. Dreaming of building your own ice cream sandwich? Dream no more. LA’s Diddy Riese, an ice cream and cookie shop, has been the City of Angels’ go-to tasty treat shop since 1983; and for less than $2, your kids can make their own ice cream sandwiches with the freshest cookies, mixing and matching them any way they want. With ice cream flavors like Strawberry Cheesecake Chunk and Mint Chip as well as several types of cookies including chocolate with white chocolate chip and peanut butter, the possibilities are practically endless! 926 Broxton Avenue, Westwood; 310-208-0448.

Payard. French macarons are heavenly enough on their own, but somebody had the brilliant idea of combining them with ice cream. Chef Francois Payard created the culinary innovation that is the macaron ice cream sandwich as a fusion of the American and French food cultures. Even better, they come in delightful flavors like coconut mango and raspberry pistachio. 1293 Third Ave, New York; (212) 717-5252.

MILK's macaron ice cream sandwiches in Los Angeles MILK’s macaron ice cream sandwiches in Los Angeles (MILK)

MILK. And speaking of these ingenious inventions, LA’s MILK isn’t just about cookies and sundaes. Their macaron ice cream sandwiches that come in different MILK ice cream flavors, made with seasonal ingredients, are not only to-die for, they are also massive. No wonder it’s become one of the favorite dessert haunts in Los Angeles. 7290 Beverly Blvd, Los Angeles; 323-939-6455.

(Originally published on MiniTime.com)

5 Best Milkshakes in America’s Big Cities

April 10, 2016February 28, 2018 by Michelle Rae, posted in Food, North America, Wander

Take the kids out for a special foodie treat. (Flickr: Jim Champion)

Since the 30s, milkshakes have been one of America’s favorite drinks. And with classic favorites like chocolate, strawberry, and banana, it’s hardly a mystery. Kids, teens, and even adults just can’t get enough these ice cream treats, so much so that you can pretty much get them in most restaurants nowadays, from fast food joints to fancier cafes.

Like with pretty much everything, however, some milkshakes are just undeniably better than others. If you happen to live or find yourself in one of these five cities, take the kids – heck, take the entire family – out for a treat at one of these spots, which incidentally serve some of America’s best milkshakes.

Franklin Fountain (Philadelphia)

Franklin Fountain is not just an old-fashioned soda shop in Philly. It’s an American institution. Locals and tourists make sure to stop at this spot housed in a turn-of-the-century building and treat themselves to Franklin’s famous homemade ice cream that come in yummy flavors like vanilla bean, chocolate chip, franklin mint chip, teaberry gum, and maple walnut. But the best part is they can make any of their ice cream flavors into a shake, so that anyone, but especially the kids, can enjoy their legendary ice cream with a brightly-colored straw. 116 Market St., Philadelphia; 215-627-1899.

Edzo’s Burger Shop (Chicago)

Milkshake at Edzo’s Burger Shop in Chicago (Edzo’s Burger Shop)

“Nothin’ fancy here” is what this favorite burger joint says of their milkshakes – you know, just vanilla ice cream with the patron’s choice of Oreos, peanut butter, or bananas. That might be true, but it hasn’t prevented Edzo’s Burger Shop from becoming one of Chicago’s best burger joints and America’s best milkshake shops. Like their delicious grassfed and freshly made burger patties and their hand-cut fries, their milkshakes are made from hand-dipped vanilla ice cream and blended with old-style slow mix machines, making their shakes some of the creamiest and smoothest shakes you and the kids will ever have in your life. Tell the kids to ask for their off-the-menu flavors for a yummy surprise. 1571 Sherman Ave., Evanston; 847-864-3396.

Lexington Candy Shop (New York City)

Chocolate milkshake at Lexington Candy Shop in New York City (Lexington Candy Shop)

Take a trip back in time and go retro at NYC’s Lexington Candy Shop. This luncheonette is as eye-catchingly timeless as its samplings are delicious. Vintage kitchen appliances, a historical Coca Cola display, and old photos hanging in frames on the walls treat your eyes while their famous ice cream shakes and malts, made from Bassetts Super Premium Ice Cream and come in classic flavors, will satisfy your hungry troops. And of course, don’t forget to sample their grub – you’ll regret it if you don’t. 1226 Lexington Ave., New York; 212-288-0057.

Milk (Los Angeles)

Milkshake at MILK in Los Angeles (Credit: Rye N.)

This Westside favorite makes their own desserts and confections – from cookies to cupcakes – and they also churn their own frozen delights. While famous for their wonderful ice cream macaroon sandwiches, which come in unbelievably huge helpings, they’re also frequented for the dripping goodness of their shakes and floats. Kids and adults alike can have their pick from the menu, which include flavors like coffee toffee crunch shake, the MILKIE way, and triple chocolate, or they can DIY their way to milkshake heaven. 7290 Beverly Blvd., Los Angeles; 323-939-6455.

Ted’s Bulletin (Washington, D.C.)

Ted’s Bulletin’s milkshakes in Washington D.C. (Ted’s Bulletin)

In their father’s honor, Mark and Ty Neal opened Ted’s Bulletin, a Rammy-nominated family-style and owned restaurant that’s made its name in the capital with their hearty, home cooked-style meals. But delectable helpings of ham steaks, eggs, and burgers aside, Ted’s milkshakes have proven to be an attraction all on their own. And with flavors like root beer float, s’mores, PBJ, and apple pie for the kids and Grasshopper, White Russian, and Tequila Sunrise for the adults, it definitely comes as no surprise. 505 8th Street SE, Washington DC; 202-544-8337.

(Originally published on MiniTime.com)

Vignettes of Yountville, Day One

April 10, 2016February 28, 2018 by Michelle Rae, posted in Food, North America, Wander

I’ve been living in California for a long time now; and while I have seen many of the Golden State’s most beautiful places (Yosemite and Big Sur come to mind), I have to admit that I haven’t fully explored it yet. To me, that’s a good thing because there’s still a lot in my state that pleasantly surprise me.

Take Napa Valley for example. I have avoided it for so long because of several reasons, including the fact that it just seemed to me very predictable, just another tourist destination that’s bland and trite. But during a recent weekend visit to Yountville, California—Napa Valley’s culinary center—I am not ashamed to admit that I was proven wrong…

There’s a reason—or rather a few remarkable reasons—why Yountville is considered Napa’s culinary capital. This idyllic haven is home to some of the most stunning sceneries you’ll ever see in California as well as many of the most amazing restaurants and wineries not just in California but also in the country.

M(a)isonry

Our first stop during our visit was M(a)isonry, a wine collective and art gallery that not only offers tastings of the best wines produced in the region but is also home to an eclectic collection, all for sale, of cool and eccentric art pieces. We very much enjoyed our tasting paired with Redd Wood’s cheese and charcuterie board, but we LOVED exploring its gorgeously decorated rooms and garden.

M(a)isonry (Photo: Michelle Rae Uy)

North Block Hotel

I’ve stayed at a number of hotels and resorts over the years, some of them simply fantastic, luxurious and award winning. I have to say, however, that North Block Hotel has officially made it to my top 10 favorites.

Staying at this lovely boutique hotel during our Yountville weekend, we were able experience and take advantage of most of its complimentary offerings (we had to skip their spa because we were scheduled for treatments at Bardessono—more on that later). These include a glass of wine upon check in and cruiser bikes that you can pretty much use anywhere around town. The staff is also super friendly and always happy for a nice chat during non-busy times.

North Block Hotel (Photo: Michelle Rae Uy)

Our gorgeous, newly-renovated room boasted an intimate furnished patio; a luxurious bed with oversized pillows and a pretty chandelier overhead; mood lighting everywhere; a massive bathroom that has a separate shower, a big tub and yummy toiletries; free WiFi; and complimentary filtered water and espresso.

North Block Hotel (Photo: Michelle Rae Uy)

We also enjoyed the surprisingly spacious pool and whirlpool area, which has a big heated pool, several lounge chairs and free Cabana-style seating with Moroccan decor.

North Block Hotel (Photo: Michelle Rae Uy)

Insider Tip: North Block Hotel also offers complimentary use of their all-new Volvo XC90 SUVs. See guest services or call ahead to schedule your preferred time.

ad hoc

It doesn’t take long for Yountville to unravel its many charming qualities. Our first day there not only included cheese and charcuterie tasting at M(a)isonry, but also an unforgettable dinner at one of Chef Thomas Keller’s highly-rated restaurants. Bearing in mind the fact that I travel all the time and have had the pleasure of eating at some of the most wonderful restaurants, it’s definitely saying something when I say that our dinner at ad hoc is one of the best meals I’ve ever had in my life.

ad hoc has a four-course, family style, prix fixe menu that changes daily, and it just so happens that the restaurant was serving their legendary Buttermilk Fried Chicken the night we dined there. The chicken was addictive, and so were the other items on the menu—Endive Salad (yummy), Clam Bake (more spinach please and how is that corn so very juicy?), Cowgirl Creamery Mt. Tam (best preserve, cheese and biscuit combo ever!), Butterscotch Pudding, and the cheesy grits and greens as slides. Even their cocktails were amazing.

It’s no surprise that every single item on the menu here is amazing, considering that the kitchen staff work like a well-oiled machine (General Manager Elias Mandilaras was kind enough to show us the behind-the-scenes action.) The kitchen was basically an obsessive-compulsive person’s (like me!) dream—clean, neat and super organized.

Insider’s Tip: ad hoc’s daily menu is available at around 9 am every day. Check their website to see what’s on the menu that day or let them surprise you. The restaurant also hosts Sunday brunch at addendum, its garden-slash-outdoor space.

This is only day one of our Yountville adventures. We have a ton more to share so stay tuned for Vignettes from Yountville, Day Two.

Along Baja California’s Culinary Route

January 29, 2016February 28, 2018 by Michelle Rae, posted in Food, North America, Wander

Driving down Baja California, past the towering border wall and the ever-busy Tijuana, a surprisingly arresting view of the coast greets us. Miles of hazel, fog-blanketed hills gently roll down unto the foamy shores of the blue Pacific. It’s a scene reminiscent of dreamy Big Sur, perhaps just ever so slightly browner, drier and less of a reverie.

Even more surprising are the houses, Mediterranean- and adobe-style, that adorn this coast. Their reddish brown rooftops peek charmingly over Federal Highway 1D, the main road that takes travelers on a scenic drive from Tijuana, its starting terminus, to just a few miles north of Ensenada. Collectively, they add a captivating and busy detail to an otherwise serene panorama.

It’s not at all how we imagined this part of Mexico would look.

Most surprising of all is the food… the glorious food, the delicious and hearty dishes centered on the freshest catch of the day – tuna, abalone, shrimp, oysters and even lobsters. Living in Southern California, we have heard all about BC’s legendary tacos de pescado (fish tacos), a dish often replicated in many restaurants in Los Angeles, but we needed further proof.

So began our weekend-long culinary journey along Mexico’s beautiful Pacific coast.

Fried langosta and sides in Puerto Nuevo (Photo: Michelle Rae)

On a balcony overlooking the baby blue coast in a little town called Puerto Nuevo, we sample the fried rock lobsters (langosta), served Baja-style with refried beans, rice, tortillas and salsa on the side. Further south in downtown Ensenada, we squeeze past the crowd to try La Guerrerense’s famous (and incredible, we know this now) ceviche, served on hard taco with avocado on top, ignoring rumors of it being overrated. And we walk less than a mile away from the tourist zone to Tacos Mi Ranchito El Fenix, whose battered fish and battered shrimp Baja-style tacos are a revelation, utterly addictive and some say the best in town.

La Guerrerense, Ensenada (Photo: Michelle Rae)

We partake in a languid Sunday breakfast affair at Hotel Coral and Marina’s BC Bistro and Cava, whose Sunday breakfast buffet include not just heaps of delicious, hearty chicken mole, cochinita pibil, Mexican Barbecue beef, beans, pozole and tamales, but also carnitas, ceviche and a large slab of lamb meat slowly roasting in an open flame, all for only about $15 per person. We sample local wine in Valle de Guadalupe, whose historic wine route is responsible for much of the tourist traffic in these parts. And, of course, we drink the local coffee, La Negrita, cheap yet surprisingly good and chocolatey.

Ensenada from our hotel room balcony at Hotel Coral & Marina (Photo: Michelle Rae)

Winery in Valle de Guadalupe (Photo: Michelle Rae)

By the end of it, we are happy, satiated and too full to consume anything else. Or so we think…

As we drive back up to LA, resisting to urge to go back to Fenix to get fish tacos for the road and already planning our next trip down, we get stuck in border traffic despite our fast pass. There in line, we purchase a bag of churros from a young girl selling them at a mobile stand right in the middle of that slow and busy highway – a striking contrast to the idyllic scene that welcomed us at the start of our trip; and we devour these Mexican treats within minutes. After all, full or not from our food adventure, there’s always, always room for dessert.

* * * * *

Stay

Hotel Coral & Marina. Carretera Tijuana-Ensenada Km.103 #3421, Zona Playitas, 22860 Ensenada | 52-646/175-0000

Eat

Villa Ortegas. Barracuda 77, Puerto Nuevo | 52-661/614-0706
La Guerrerense. Corner of Avda. Alvarado and First St., Ensenada | 52-646/174-2114
Tacos Mi Ranchito El Fenix. Corner of Espinosa and Avda. Juárez, Ensenada
BC Bistro and Cava. Carretera Tijuana-Ensenada Km.103 #3421, Zona Playitas, 22860 Ensenada | 52-646/175-0000

Drink

Hacienda la Lomita. Fraccionamiento 13 22785 Ensenada | 52-646/156-8466
Café La Negrita. Centro Comercial Bahía Loc. 35 | 52-646/178-6512

(Originally published on HuffingtonPost.com)

Hawaiian Food Sucks? Think Again!

January 22, 2016February 28, 2018 by James Holland, posted in Food, North America, Wander

Over a plate of Pork Belly Bao, Lobster Shumai and a gigantic bowl of Ramen, we looked at each other in amazement. This is what it’s like to eat in Hawaii? My wife and I had been warned over and over. “Enjoy getting away, love the beaches, take advantage of the slower pace but don’t expect much of the food.” While not your typical Hawaiian food, Lucky Belly serves Asian Fusion Cuisine that you’ll only find on Hotel Street in the heart of Honolulu’s Chinatown. The hour-long wait is worth it.

One of the distinctive features of the food culture in Hawaii is its unique combination of Polynesian, American and Asian cuisines (with some Portuguese influence). There are restaurants for Japanese, Korean, Chinese, and Filipino cuisine but aspects of all those cuisines have been integrated into Hawaiian food such as the plate lunch, which takes the idea of the Japanese bento box, keeps the rice, but substitutes a scoop of Macaroni Salad and a protein for the rest.

In Waikiki, there is one restaurant that specializes in the plate lunches that is right up the street from the Honolulu Zoo and the Waikiki Beach. Rainbow Drive-In’s menu is dominated by the plate lunches where you can get BBQ Beef (highly recommended), Fried Chicken among other options with rice and Macaroni salad. After we were done clearing 75% of our food, we came down with what one local termed “Polynesian Paralysis”.

Another import that you’ll see in particular abundance on the North Shore of Oahu are shrimp trucks and stands. These places serve something special that is also found in the Philippines, Garlic & Butter Shrimp. On a lonely highway, halfway between Turtle Bay Resort and the Polynesian Culture Center sits Romy’s Kahuku Prawns and Shrimp. If you love your shellfish, you’ll be hard pressed to find a better place or a more authentic destination to indulge.

DSCF1812 — Romy’s in the North Shore (Photo: Michelle Rae)

DSCF1813 — Romy’s in the North Shore (Photo: Michelle Rae)

All the aforementioned restaurants are fantastic creations unique to Hawaii but to get something a little more traditional, one should start at Helena’s Hawaiian Food. From Pipikaula shortrib to Kalua Pig and Luau Chicken, picking a favorite is not easy. Other Hawaiian offerings include Poke, the closest approximation to which is Sashimi, and Poi, admittedly an acquired taste that will separate the tourists from the locals. Don’t forget to enjoy the complementary Haupia for desert. If you’re having Hawaiian food for the first time, skip the cheap fast food restaurants and start at this James Beard winning restaurant. Oh, and bring cash.

Hawaii also offers some unique options for desert. The ubiquitous shaved ice can be found just about anywhere and comes with multiple flavors, such as most fruit flavors and the more exotic Li Hing Mui, and can be served with sweetened condensed milk or a scoop of ice cream. The other must have desert in Hawaii is the Malasada or Portuguese Donut. Leave room for Leonard’s Bakery at least once or five times during your trip. Unlike most donut shops, you will order off a menu, not a display, for the Malasadas that they’ll make fresh. When you bite into these little clouds of joy, you’ll notice that they’re a little less dense and softer than a regular donut. To top it all off or to start your day, skip Starbucks and head to Island Vintage Coffee for the coconut-flavored Island Latte. And while you’re there, grab some Kona Coffee to take home.

Processed with VSCOcam with f2 preset — Leonard’s (Photo: Michelle Rae)

Helena’s Hawaiian Food. 1240 N School St., Honolulu, HI 96817 | www.helenashawaiianfood.com/
Lucky Belly. 50 N Hotel St., Honolulu, HI 96817 | http://www.luckybelly.com/
Romy’s Kahuku Prawns & Shrimp. 56-781 Kamehameha Hwy, Kahuku, HI 96731 | www.romyskahukuprawns.org/
Rainbow Drive-In. 3308 Kanaina Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815 | www.rainbowdrivein.com/
Island Vintage Coffee. Multiple locations around Oahu | www.islandvintagecoffee.com/
Leonard’s Bakery. 933 Kapahulu Ave, Honolulu, HI 96816 | http://www.leonardshawaii.com/

Hotel Recommendations

Park Shore Waikiki Hotel. 2586 Kalakaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815 | www.parkshorewaikiki.com/
Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa. 92-1185 Ali’inui Dr, Kapolei, HI 96707 | resorts.disney.go.com/aulani-hawaii-resort/
Embassy Suites Waikiki Beach Walk. 201 Beachwalk St, Honolulu, HI 96815 | http://www.embassysuiteswaikiki.com/

Taste the Flavors of the World with Try the World

June 6, 2015 by Michelle Rae, posted in Food, Reviews

Food is the flavor of travel, and one of the best things about visiting far-off lands whose culture differ from our own. But if truth be told, while grown-ups are more than happy – or at least more inclined – to sample a foreign cuisine that differ from our own, kids are the pickiest eaters and convincing them to try something new may not be easy. This means that traveling with kids to a foreign country can get tough.

A simple solution to get our little travelers to have a wider taste palette and to expose them to the different tastes of the world is to start at home.

That’s where Try the World comes in very handy. An ingenious way of enjoying different tastes of the world, the US-based company delivers gourmet food from all over the world right on your doorstep every 2 months with their chef-curated subscription boxes filled with goodies from wonderful destinations.

Whether you are looking to try some French cuisine, sample the more exotic tastes of Marrakech or savor the Mediterranean flavors of Italy, each Try the World curated box features a different destination and features authentic, carefully selected, USFDA approved snacks and cooking items from that destination. Additionally, each box comes with a card that talks about every item and how they’re traditionally prepared and eaten, as well as a beautiful culture guide that covers interesting things about the destination, including a recipe, a playlist and some movie recommendations.

Try the World’s subscription boxes are a terrific way to expose the kids to new cuisines and cultures, and for the whole family to enjoy a genuine food experience without putting in the miles. Well, at least not just yet.

It’s also great for an awesome culture night party with friends, a romantic date night without the kids, or just a special Friday night dinner with the whole family. And when you run out of your favorite items, Try the World has got you covered with their well-stocked online shop.

Every Try the World box is truly designed so you and your kids can have a complete cultural and gastronomical experience. Not only will it prepare the kids for unique culinary experiences, it will also give every member of your family something to look forward to on your next family adventure.

Current box, Buenos Aires, explores the meaty dishes and delicious creamy deserts of Argentina, featuring such treats as dulce de membrillo, chimichurri and Argentine teas. Visit their website now and get ready to taste the flavors of the world with Try the World.

(Originally published on MiniTime.com.)