Tag Archives: Restaurants

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Family-Friendly Fine Dining in London

Afternoon tea display at restaurant

If you love fine dining but have young children, treating your family to a gourmet meal can be tricky. After all, many fine dining restaurants simply aren’t equipped to cater to kids, and they often have age restrictions too. 

Well, if you happen to be in London, you don’t need to worry. The city is full of family-friendly fine dining restaurants – here are a few of the best to add to your must-try list. 

Heddon Street Kitchen, Soho

Are you a fan of Gordon Ramsay? 

While many are put off by the celebrity chef’s abrasive personality, there isn’t much to criticize when it comes to the food that he creates. 

Ramsay has several restaurants in London, one of which is Heddon Street Kitchen, which you will find in the heart of Soho. The interior features a mix of both vintage and modern elements, and while the vibe may be quite relaxed, the food can definitely be considered gourmet. 

What sets Heddon Street Kitchen apart when it comes to kids is the fact that the children’s menu has been designed by Tilly Ramsay, Gordon Ramsay’s daughter. It boasts popular child-friendly classics, from scampi and chips to sticky chicken wings, as well as a make-your-own ice cream bar. As you can imagine, this all goes down pretty well with kids. 

What wins the parents over is that children are able to dine for free, picking anything they want from the menu. 

Wondering what there is for the adults to eat here? 

Well, the restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Dishes are modern and creative, featuring that distinct Gordon Ramsay twist. Whether you want a rare breed Tomahawk steak, a creamy risotto or a fresh, crisp salad, this restaurant is guaranteed to please. 

As an added bonus, Heddon Street Kitchen is located near several family-friendly attractions, from the Ripley’s Believe It or Not museum to the famous Hamleys Toy Shop. 

Tredwells, Covent Garden

Another popular British celebrity chef, Marcus Wareing, along with renowned chef Chantelle Nicholson, are at the forefront of Tredwells. Located in Covent Garden, this is a restaurant with a heavy focus on using seasonal British ingredients, with a menu that is constantly evolving. 

If your kids are young foodies, Tredwells is a restaurant that they will absolutely love. 

While it does have a regular children’s menu, featuring much-loved classics from pasta to lamb croquettes, the restaurant also offers up a children’s tasting menu, known as the Tredwells Culinary Kids Menu. For a set fee of £17, your child will be treated to a six course gourmet tasting meal, with each course designed to be completely appetizing to children. 

Wondering what the child’s tasting menu consists of? 

As mentioned above, the dishes change depending on the time of year you visit, but the restaurant’s recent menu is as follows: 

  • A mint and apple fizz cocktail 
  • Roast carrots 
  • Mozzarella with a mild, easy to eat chorizo 
  • A Cumbrian bavette 
  • A coconut mousse with marinated pineapple and passion fruit 
  • Salted caramel ice cream topped with chocolate sauce 

As you can see, this isn’t a menu that is going to appeal to all kids out there, but, for those who are aspiring to be foodies just like their parents, this menu will be very much appreciated. 

Speaking of parents…

Just like your kids, you can also choose from a regular a la carte menu, or go for a tasting menu, of which they have one containing meat and one designed just for vegetarians. You can also opt for wine pairings to go with each course, elevating the flavors within each dish. If you happen to be in the area on a Sunday, treat your family to Tredwells’ Sunday Roast, with a fantastic choice of proteins to choose from. 

Tamarind, Mayfair

In the mood for Indian food? 

If so, Tamarind, which can be found in Mayfair, should definitely be on your list. Tamarind was one of the very first Indian restaurants in the world, and the first in London, to receive a Michelin star, and this award was well-deserved. 

The food here is delicate and flavorful, but still wonderfully authentic, offering up new and exciting versions of classic Indian dishes. 

Now, one thing to keep in mind before visiting…

Tamarind do not offer a children’s menu. However, they do have a good reason for this – the dishes that they create are designed to be shared by the table, meaning that children can simply sample from whatever their parents order. Of course, if you need the spice to be toned down for your kids, the chefs here are more than happy to cook you milder dishes. 

The dishes range from curries to grilled dishes to small plates, but if you simply cannot choose from all of the items on the delectable menu, you may be best off going for the Tasting Menu instead. For a set fee of £69 (or £59 for vegetarians), guests will be served a selection of the restaurant’s most exquisite dishes. 

Once you’re done eating, make the most of the restaurant’s luxurious location by taking a stroll around Mayfair. Don’t forget to also stop by at the OROGOLD Mayfair store, where you will be able to enjoy product demonstrations, VIP facials and expert skin care advice. And yes, children are most welcome at the store too! 

OXO Tower Restaurant, Bar and Brasserie, South Bank

Have you been to the OXO Tower before? 

Even if you haven’t, you have likely seen the building, as this is one that is instantly recognizable in London’s skyline. As you can tell from the name, the OXO Tower Restaurant, Bar and Brasserie is located in the OXO Tower, on the eighth floor to be precise. From here, you and your family can enjoy panoramic views across the city, especially if you head out onto the restaurant’s expansive garden terrace. 

For the views alone, this is a restaurant that most children usually really enjoy, and the dedicated children’s menu ensures that the food goes down a treat too. The menu features a wide range of child-friendly classic dishes, with the menu differing slightly between the restaurant and the brasserie. Children are also gifted with activity packs on arrival, ensuring that they have plenty to keep them busy while their parents are enjoying their meals. 

Wondering what there is for the adults to eat? 

All of the dishes here feature seasonal British produce, earning them the reputation for producing some of the best British fine dining dishes in the city. From slow-cooked pork belly to poached lobster to dry-aged beef fillet, just about everyone will find something that they enjoy on this menu. There are plenty of vegan and vegetarian options too, so don’t worry if you are on a meat-free diet. 

If you are seeking an iconic London dining experience, afternoon tea is something that you should definitely try. Don’t worry, you won’t have to leave your kids at home, since the OXO Tower Restaurant serves up a special Kid’s Afternoon Tea, designed for children under the age of 12. Dishes include: 

  • A banana milkshake shot
  • Finger sandwiches 
  • Caramel and sea salt popcorn 
  • Fudge brownies 
  • Mini scones 

Céleste, Knightsbridge

Located at the Lanesborough Hotel, Céleste is another Michelin starred restaurant, as well as one that boasts three AA Rosettes. 

The head chef of this restaurant, Eric Frechon, has earned himself three Michelin stars in his career, cooking up some of the finest dishes in all of France. Well, Frechon has now brought his skills to London, showcasing modern European cuisine to the city. 

In addition to offering up a standard a la carte menu, Céleste also has a seasonal daily menu, featuring the freshest of British produce. From beetroot gazpacho to roasted stone bass to a confit duck leg, these dishes both look and taste absolutely spectacular. To elevate your dining experience even more, opt for the wine pairings, where you will be able to enjoy a different glass of wine with each course. 

You are probably thinking…

This doesn’t sound very child-friendly! 

Well, just like the ever-changing daily menu for adults, Céleste creates a bespoke children’s menu that changes each day. The children’s dishes are always fresh and flavorful, and while they may sometimes feature a few unusual ingredients, they are all cooked up in a way that children really appreciate. 

What makes this restaurant even better is its location…

Knightsbridge is home to a wide range of children’s attractions, from Madame Tussauds to the London Zoo, making it easy to plan an entire day out here. 

Balthazar London, Covent Garden

If you are familiar with New York’s fine dining restaurants, then Balthazar is a name that you have probably heard of before. This restaurant is a New York institution, often with a wait list of up to three months. Well, you won’t need to worry about that at Balthazar London, with this venue usually able to accommodate walk-in diners. 

At first glance, you may not think that this is a very child-friendly restaurant, but the liveliness and large size of the brasserie makes it perfect for those more energetic kids. 

Of course, in order to properly cater to those little ones, Balthazar London has a dedicated children’s menu that features firm favorites, such as: 

  • Macaroni cheese, topped with smoked bacon 
  • Spaghetti with a fresh tomato sauce 
  • Chicken nuggets served with French fries 

For dessert, children can pick from a variety of ice cream and sorbet flavors, with some exciting toppings to add on as well. 

What about the adults? 

Dishes are French bistro style, with specials that change every day. Another aspect to this restaurant that adults tend to love is the American Whiskey Bar, where you will find whiskey from more than 15 American states, along with incredible classic cocktails. 

Want to make a day of it? 

Combine your visit to Balthazar London with a trip to the London Transport Museum, which is literally just around the corner from the museum. There are several child-friendly exhibits here, giving kids and adults alike the chance to learn more about London’s transportation systems. 

Frederick’s, Islington 

A family-run restaurant that has been serving up modern European dishes since the late 1960’s, Frederick’s is a much-loved London institution. The interior of the restaurant is bright, light and airy, and children are always made to feel extremely welcome. 

While the chefs here are always happy to create child-sized version of the adult dishes on the a la carte menu, there is also a dedicated children’s menu available. Kids are able to choose from a three-course meal, with the dishes being classics that children always love. Plus, the babyccino that is included with the children’s meal always helps the young ones to feel more grown up. 

For the adults, there are numerous dishes to choose from, with the restaurant famous for its broad menu. Whether you are in the mood for pan-fried scallops, roasted Welsh lamb or breaded goat’s cheese, each of the dishes served up here features fresh and seasonal ingredients, making the most of British produce. 

For those of you who love looking at beautiful art…

Frederick’s has a collection well worth checking out. They began with a small selection of Peter Kalkhof paintings, which they first put on display to celebrate the restaurant’s 30th birthday. As you can imagine, their art collection has grown since then, with the Jill Furmanovsky photography pieces being especially popular. 

Many people assume that fine dining with kids is next-to-impossible, but this isn’t the case at all…so long as you know where to go! No matter where in London you may be, those who are seeking a family-friendly fine dining restaurant will likely be able to find several to choose from, with the dishes that you will sample being just as beautiful as the restaurants themselves. 

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The Madrid Zoo and Aquarium

Madrid Zoo and Aquarium in Spain

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Located in the Casa de Campo, the Madrid Zoo and Aquarium first opened its doors in 1770, and is currently one of the largest zoos in Spain. Sprawled out at just under 50 acres, this zoo boasts a wide range of different animals and exhibits, making it one of the city’s most popular attractions.

The Zoo Animals
The Madrid Zoo is one of the only zoos in the world to house giant pandas, making this a highlight of the visit for many. The zoo is part of a giant panda conservation program, giving you a unique opportunity to see these gentle, peaceful creatures up close. Other mammals within the zoo range from lions and tigers to giraffes and koalas, and, unlike many zoos that use cages to house their animals, the Madrid Zoo makes use of wide moats, to enable the animals to experience more of a natural habitat.

Shark in aquarium

The Aquarium Animals
With a huge salt water aquarium, the Madrid Zoo and Aquarium is able to showcase quite the variety of sea creatures. The aquarium opened in 1995, and was the first marine tropical aquarium in Spain, earning it quite the reputation. From the bull shark to the sandbar shark to different sea turtle species, you are bound to see so many animals that you have never seen before here, and, thanks to the Shark Tunnel, these can be seen from such a close distance. You will also be able to explore the dolphinarium, which was built in 1987 and is home to nine bottlenose dolphins.

Shows and Exhibitions
The Madrid Zoo and Aquarium has an action-packed schedule of shows and exhibitions that visitors can watch, and these will enable them to appreciate these animals from a new perspective. The dolphin show is one that showcases the incredible skills and abilities that dolphins have when it comes to learning, while the sea lion show is another one that will have you marveling at the intelligence of these sea creatures. The free flight exotic bird show is also not to be missed, and neither is the birds of prey show, which is another free flight one.

Flamingos on a lake in the zoo

Restaurants and Cafés
With so much to see and do at the Madrid Zoo and Aquarium, visitors tend to feel quite hungry during the day. Fortunately, there are several restaurants and cafés to choose from, and these are located all over the grounds of the zoo, meaning that you are never too far away from a bite to eat. Whether you opt for the African inspired Restaurant Kibanda or the seasonal dishes at Restaurant Bagaray, the eateries at the zoo will definitely not disappoint.

The Madrid Zoo and Aquarium is open throughout the year, although certain shows and exhibitions only take place on specific days, making it worth checking out their website in advance if there is a particular one that you are hoping to catch. This is a zoo that really strives to educate the public on animals, and the importance of conservation, making it a great place to visit with the entire family.

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Culture and Food at the Youm Al Bahar, Kuwait

Food on a plate

Located in Kuwait City on Gulf Road, Youm Al Bahar is a heritage village situated right by the sea. From craft stores to authentic local restaurants, this is a great spot in the city to head to if you would like to soak up some of Kuwait’s culture and food.

Family-Friendly
When you first enter Youm Al Bahar, you will notice a sign saying that admission is for families only. While this may seem odd to some international visitors, this is actually a great step that was taken, as it means that the atmosphere here is always quite relaxed, friendly and safe.

Local Food and Snacks
Within Youm Al Bahar, there are a number of restaurants and cafés that serve up freshly made local snacks. Food is always such a significant part of a culture’s heritage, making this a great way to taste the true flavor of Kuwait. The stuffed Arabic breads are a must-try, and these are stuffed with everything ranging from cheese to spices and herbs, while the wafting scent of the kebabs cooking will no doubt tempt you over for a sample. If you would prefer something sweet, give Luqaimat a try, which are sweet dumplings that are crisp on the outside but soft on the inside. Of course, you cannot leave the city without tasting machboos, which is famous for being the national dish of Kuwait. Consisting of rice that has been cooked with rose water and saffron, served up alongside meat and a garlic tomato sauce, this is a dish that you will not forget.

Shopping
Shops and stalls can be found throughout Youm Al Bahar, and these sell a variety of local goods. Local crafts tend to be the highlight here, and, even if you are not looking to make a purchase, these are still so interesting to browse, as they display such a high level of workmanship. In addition to the crafts, you will find everything from leather sandals to musical instruments to herbs and spices here, creating a wonderfully diverse shopping experience.

A Local Experience
While Kuwait City may have experienced so much development over the years, a visit to Youm Al Bahar is a great way to enjoy an authentic local experience, getting a glimpse into what Kuwait used to be like. In addition to all of the restaurants at Youm Al Bahar, you will also notice a number of local coffee shops. Head into one of these and order a cup of traditional mint tea, and then, if you have some time to spare, join the locals in a game of backgammon, of which you will find many around the area.

Youm Al Bahar is open every day of the week throughout the year, although if there is a specific shop or restaurant that you are hoping to visit, it would be worth checking out their opening times beforehand, as each of these is run individually. Whether you are seeking somewhere authentic for a bite to eat, or want to do a spot of shopping, including some one-of-a-kind souvenirs to take home with you, the heritage at Youm Al Bahar makes it one of the highlights of a visit to Kuwait City.

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Nature, Updated, at the Al Shaheed Park

Park in Kuwait City

Located on the edge of Kuwait City, the Al Shaheed Park is the largest urban park in Kuwait. For those looking to experience nature, history and culture, all in one place, make sure that you include a visit to the park while you are exploring Kuwait.

The History of the Park
The area that the Al Shaheed Park is in was originally created in 1964, with the aim of it being a formal Green Belt Park. As this grew into a garden, the area experienced quite a bit of renovation and development over the years, after which it was turned into the Al Shaheed Park, along with the aim of commemorating the country’s martyrs.

The Park’s Museums
The Al-Shaheed Park is home to two museums, both of which are worth touring if you are already going to be visiting the park anyway. The first is the Thekra Museum, which is a memorial museum that educates visitors on Kuwait’s history, including the battles that the country experienced, as well as the Gulf War. The second museum is the Habitat Museum, which is an environmental museum that aims to preserve and showcase the local environment and wildlife of Kuwait. This museum is quite a new one, as it was only inaugurated at the beginning of this year, but already has a wide array of geographical and environmental exhibits.

Historical Highlights of the Al Shaheed Park
There are a number of historical monuments dotted around Al Shaheed Park, which you will see as you make your way around the grounds. From the old city gates, which are in the exact same place that they were when they were first put up in the late 1800’s, to the Constitution Monument and the Martyrs Monument, you can learn so much about Kuwait’s history simply by taking a stroll around the Al Shaheed Park.

The Underground Tunnel
Lying beneath the Al Shaheed Park is a long underground tunnel, which was built in order to connect Kuwait’s green belt. This tunnel has now been completely renovated, and features a number of pieces of art, as well as three-dimensional Portuguese tiles that light up the passageway in vibrant shades of blue and green.

Other Facilities at the Park
In addition to the museums and historical monuments, there are plenty of other things to do at the Al Shaheed Park. The open-air amphitheater is where you can catch a number of live performances and special events, while the gift shop and book shop are always fun to explore, especially if you are looking for a unique souvenir to take home with you. Of course, be sure to stop off at one of the park’s restaurants or cafés if you are looking for a bite to eat, as they serve up tasty local food.

The Al Shaheed Park sprawls out for almost 20 hectares, and just about every area within it has been recently refurbished and updated. While the hustle and bustle of Kuwait City is always exciting, there will come a time when you need some tranquillity, making the Al Shaheed Park the perfect escape to head to.

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Things to Do in Boston’s Fenway-Kenmore Neighborhood

Although at one point in time it used to be a swamp, Boston’s Fenway-Kenmore neighborhood is now vibrant, bustling and full of energy. For those paying it a visit this summer, here are just a few of the things that you can look forward to doing.

Baseball game happening at Fenway Park, Boston

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Visit Fenway Park
The oldest ballpark in Major League Baseball, a visit to Fenway Park is an absolute must if you are in the neighborhood. Fenway Park is often the main reason why tourists visit the Fenway-Kenmore neighborhood, as it is home to the Boston Red Sox, and is the perfect place from which to catch a game. If you are visiting when there is not a game on, you can still take part in the Fenway Park Tour, which will take you around all of the park’s many highlights in just an hour.

Interior of the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston

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Explore the Museum of Fine Arts
For any art lovers visiting Boston, the Museum of Fine Arts is a must-visit, as the art collection here is truly encyclopedic. From the ancient world to the modern day, the art that you will see here covers just about every period in history. While you may not have time to tour the whole museum, the four-storey Americas wing simply has to be seen, especially the gallery that is entirely dedicated to John Singer Sargent, and includes his famous painting The Daughters of Edward Darley Boit. The northern wing of the museum is equally impressive, with pieces by masters such as Van Gogh, Degas and Renoir, as well as the largest Monet collection outside of Paris.

Interior of Symphony Hall, Boston

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Visit Symphony Hall
Home to the Boston Symphony Orchestra since it was first built in 1900, Symphony Hall is a majestic building that is well worth touring. The free daily tour here lasts for an hour, and not only takes you around Symphony Hall’s public spaces, but also gives you a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the workings of the orchestra. For those who are hoping to catch a performance, these are held from September to April, so you will have to wait until the end of the summer, as the Boston Symphony Orchestra spends their summer months in Tanglewood in Western Massachusetts.

Oysters with lime and sauce

Enjoy Some Good Food
Boston is home to some incredible restaurants, and the Fenway-Kenmore neighborhood is no exception. One of the top joints in the area is the Island Creek Oyster Bar, which serves up the finest oysters that you will find in Boston, along with plenty of other seafood, including their speciality dish, lobster roe noodles that are topped with succulent bites of grilled lobster and braised short ribs. Alternatively, head to El Pelon for budget-style Mexican dishes that will no doubt leave you feeling satisfied.

The Fenway-Kenmore neigborhood is a great area of Boston at which to spend some time, so do be sure to schedule it into your itinerary. Whether you hop around museums for the day or take a tour of Fenway Park and then enjoy some good food, there really is so much to see and do here.

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The Luxurious Emirates Palace Hotel

Emirates Palace Hotel

Located in Abu Dhabi, the seven-star Emirates Palace Hotel is considered to be one of the most luxurious hotels in the UAE, describing itself as a palace rather than a hotel. With everything from gold and marble furnishings in the guest rooms to world-class fine dining restaurants, this is a hotel that definitely goes above and beyond when it comes to providing quality accommodation.

Guest Rooms and Suites
There are 302 guest rooms at the Emirates Palace Hotel, as well as 92 suites, with all of these accommodation options spread out across two wings and a central building. From the standard rooms to the penthouse suites, every room is decked out in gold and marble, with many other extravagant design details adding to the luxuriousness of the experience. While the focus may be placed on Arabian furnishings, the technology and multimedia systems that you will find within the rooms are state-of-the-art, while the private terraces and balconies offer spectacular vistas of Abu Dhabi.

Restaurants
The restaurants that you will find at the Emirates Palace Hotel are sophisticated and refined, but with a variety of cuisines to choose from. The opulent Mawal restaurant practices Levantine hospitality, in which guests are treated as part of the family, while Mezzaluna has been inspired by the grand trattorias found in Northern Italy, and has frequently been named as the best Italian restaurant in Abu Dhabi. The Sayad Seafood Restaurant is another award-winning restaurant, this time with the best seafood in Abu Dhabi, while the Mezlai Emirati Restaurant is reminiscent of an airy, traditional Bedouin tent, serving up dishes that make the most of local native ingredients. These are just a few of the many restaurants that you will find here, making the hotel quite the culinary hot spot.

Hotel Facilities
As you would expect from such a high-class hotel, the Emirates Palace Hotel boasts a number of facilities and services that will make your stay even more memorable. The two luxurious, temperature-controlled, sparkling swimming pools simply beg to be dived in to, while beach club membership is available for those who want to spend their time splashing about in the sea. The hotel offers several other sporting opportunities, from 75-minute yoga classes, as well as special full moon sessions, to jogging and cycling trails to water sports and so much more. The camel rides along the beach are also not to be missed, and these can be rounded up with a cup of Arabian coffee and a bowl of dates to make the experience even more authentic. If there is anything that you require that the hotel does not usually provide, their concierge service, as well as their personal butler service, will be able to help, as the hotel strives to meet each and every guest requirement.

The UAE is full of luxury hotels, but the Emirates Palace Hotel still manages to rise above its competition. With the finest of accommodation, facilities and dining options, this is a hotel that really prioritizes their guests’ needs and comforts, ensuring that your stay is never anything but enjoyable.

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Take a Stroll Through Old Sacramento

Established during the 1849 California Gold Rush, Old Sacramento was the very first historic district to be created in the western United States, and is home today to a wide variety of museums, attractions and dining options. Covering an area of 28 acres along the banks of the Sacramento River, here are just a few of the highlights that you can expect to see when taking a stroll through Old Sacramento.

Old Sacramento

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The Museums of Old Sacramento
While you may not have time to fully tour each of the museums of Old Sacramento, they are all located within walking distance of each other, making it easy to spend a small amount of time at each as you pass by. The California Automobile Museum is a must-visit for car enthusiasts, as it has over 150 exhibits that tell the story of the development of the automobile. The California State Railroad Museum is another one that focuses on transport, with everything from extravagantly restored trains to antique locomotives. Of course, the Sacramento History Museum is definitely worth stopping off at if you want to learn more about the city’s dramatic history, as well as its turbulent Gold Rush past, while the Old Sacramento Schoolhouse Museum is a living replica of a one-room schoolhouse from California’s early days.

The Delta King
Located at the end of Old Sacramento, the Delta King is a historic riverboat that dates back to 1927, and has been beautifully restored since then. While the boat does not run anymore and is permanently docked here, it is still open for the public to explore, and even has a restaurant where you can enjoy a meal with a stunning waterfront backdrop.

Old Sacramento Underground Tours
Depending on how much time you have to spare, an underground tour of the city is well worth taking. These tours begin at the Sacramento History Museum, and take visitors down through excavated foundations and enclosed pathways, while teaching them all about the only successful street-raising project in California.

Shops and Restaurants
Old Sacramento is home to a wide range of shops and restaurants that each manage to maintain a quaint and traditional charm. The shops, of which there are everything from toys to handcrafted jewellery, can easily be browsed as you stroll through the town, and you are likely to pick up a few unique souvenirs, whether this may be a local piece of art, or a photograph of you and your group dressed up in Old West attire, a service that is provided by the town’s two old-fashioned photo shops. When it comes to restaurants, there are many to choose from, but if you are just seeking a sweet treat to snack on while you wander through town, head to Danny’s Mini Donuts, or to Munchies Salt Water Taffy.

Old Sacramento is an area unlike any other, and really does make you feel as though you have stepped back in time. While you may not be able to explore the entire area on foot, a leisurely stroll through Old Sacramento will still reward you with plenty of memorable experiences.

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French Cultural Influence in Ontario

Celebration in Ontario

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It was just over 400 years ago when French explorer Samuel de Champlain explored the wilderness of Ontario, bringing with him the first wave of French culture and heritage. Over the years, French-Ontarians have had to fight hard to keep their culture alive, but have managed to do in a spectacular way, and it is still easy to see the many French cultural influences all around Ontario.

The Arts
The arts are always an important link when it comes to language and identity, and French art is greatly supported throughout Ontario. The Ontario Arts Council have a program that is specially dedicated to Francophone Arts, and this supports everything from new French-language films to visual art groups and craft projects.

Franco-Ontarian Festival
The Franco-Ontarian Festival is held each June in Ottawa, at Major’s Hill Park, and is believed to be the largest Francophones and Francophiles celebration in the whole of Canada. The festival has been running for over 40 years now, each one bigger and better than the last, complete with special musical events and plenty of family entertainment.

Monument de la Francophonie d’Ottawa
The Monument de la Francophonie d’Ottawa was opened in 2006, and features a Franco-Ontarian flag at the center. Around the flagpole is a granite monument that tells the story of French education in Ottawa over time. The monument was so greatly appreciated that the committee that created the park built five more monuments the following year.

Cinefranco
Held each year in Toronto, Cinefranco is a week-long French film festival that showcases both Canadian and French-language films. Launched in 1997, the film festival this year will be held from the 27th of October to the 1st of November, and gives the audience the opportunity to appreciate French films that would not otherwise have been distributed among a Canadian audience. For those of you who cannot make it for Cinefranco this year, keep an eye out for some of the many other film-related events and activities that Cinefranco hosts in Toronto throughout the year, all of which can be found on their social media accounts.

French Food
With such a strong sense of French culture all over Ontario, it is no surprise that there are countless French restaurants to be found. Just like everywhere else in the world, there are a few that really stand out from the crowd, such as Le Select Bistro in Toronto, which first opened its doors in 1977, and whose menu features a delicious array of Parisian classics. Another popular French eatery in Toronto is Coquine, which has won numerous awards for their authentic French cuisine. For those of you in Ottawa, give the modern Black Cat Bistro a try, or, for a truly cutting edge menu, head to Restaurant 18.

French culture is deeply ingrained into life in Ontario, and it brings a certain unique charm to the region. From the authentic French cuisine of Toronto to the lively French festival in Ottawa, Ontario is clearly, and rightfully, proud of its French heritage, and will hopefully be able to retain that for years to come.

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Food & Wine in Swan Valley

Swan Valley Vineyard

Less than a thirty-minute drive from Perth’s city center lies Swan Valley, not only one of the oldest wine-growing regions in Australia but also one of the premier food destinations in the country. The Swan Valley Food and Wine Trail stretches for 32 scenic kilometers and is where you will find some of the best wineries, restaurants and cafés in the state.

Wine
A large number of the wineries in Swan Valley were among the first to be established in Western Australia, with the region producing wine for over 180 years now. One of the main charms when it comes to the wineries here is the focus on small boutique wineries, and while there are still some big names to be found, it is the smaller, family-owned vineyards that really shine. Since Swan Valley experiences quite a warm and dry climate, it is perfect for producing some of the best shiraz, cabernet and verdhelo varieties that Australia has to offer, and this, combined with advanced wine making technology and equipment, has given the wines that come from this region a level of perfection that cannot be beaten.

Wineries
Carilley Estate is a family-run vineyard in Swan Valley and has been producing wine for over fifty years. With picturesque gardens featuring majestic greenery, this is definitely one of the more scenic of Swan Valley vineyards, and the lush surroundings add a whole new dimension to the wine tasting. Sandalford Wines is one of the oldest and largest family-run wineries in the state, and is also one of the most sustainable in the country, making their techniques well worth viewing. Talijancich Wines was established in 1932, and has quite the reputation for their award-winning wines, with gourmet cheeseboards available to accompany tastings.

Restaurants and Cafés
With over 90 different restaurants and cafés on the Swan Valley Food and Wine Trail to choose from, each of them making use of regional produce and fresh ingredients in their own way, it can be extremely difficult deciding which to visit! Broads Café, which can be found at the Upper Reach Winery, puts their own twist on their fresh, gourmet food by serving it up tapas style, and focussing on a selection of tasting plates that beautifully accompany the wines from their vineyard. Another fantastic restaurant is situated in the historic Valencia Vineyard, with the owner cooking up fresh and delicious homemade food. The Cheese Barrel is another popular spot on the trail, because, as can be guessed from their name, they focus on specialized wine and cheese pairings, making use of both local and international cheeses.

Australia has a number of different regions that are known for their outstanding food and wine, and Swan Valley is at the top of that list. While it is possible to take a day tour of the region and visit a select number of wineries and restaurants, it really is worthwhile to spend a few days here, taking in the unique aspects of each vineyard, as well as the rich natural beauty all around.

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The Changing Scene of “Fast-Food”

The food industry is constantly changing, and while industrialized fast food may have been the norm over the past few decades, this may not be the case for much longer. With the health and environmental concerns that are continuously being linked to fast, convenient foods, and the increased awareness that consumers now have in wanting to know exactly where their food has come from, more and more people are now shunning fast food options in favor of healthier options that focus on freshness and quality.

Organic vegetables

Farmers Markets
Ever since 1994, when the US Department of Agriculture began to keep records on farmers markets around the country, numbers have more than quadrupled, and there are now over 8000 registered farmers markets dotted around America. This trend is also being experienced in many other countries around the world, from Europe to Australia, with many people now preferring to buy their food directly from the farmer that has grown it. Of course, the goods on sale will be seasonal, and can be completely different depending on which region you are in, but with winter farmers markets now just as popular as the summer versions, it is definitely possible to have access to farm-fresh produce all year round.

Meal Planning and Delivery Subscriptions
Meal planning is essential for most households, and there are now subscription services available that make this even easier, doing away with the temptation to opt for a fast food meal on those late evenings when you do not much feel like cooking. These new companies allow customers to sign up for a weekly meal plan, after which the exact ingredients needed for each meal are delivered to the customer’s door. Not only does this make cooking healthy meals at home much more convenient, but it also does away with the need to shop at grocery stores, and reduces the amount of food wastage, since you are only sent exactly what you will need for the week.

dainty morsels with white asparagus

Fresh and Seasonal Menus
With the increased demand from consumers wanting quality when they eat out at restaurants, a number of eateries are now creating seasonal menus, stocking their kitchens with fresh and local produce. This not only reduces food miles, but also expands awareness on the delicious ingredients that can be found locally. These restaurants can be found just about everywhere, ranging from high-end fine dining to casual café snacks.

Farm Co-ops
Small farms face a number of challenges when it comes to marketing and selling their produce, not only financially but also in terms of the range and quantity of produce that they can offer. This is where farm co-ops come in, a concept that has already seen plenty of success. Essentially, a farm co-op is a group of food producers that use combined efforts to sell their goods, sharing advertising costs and dividing up tasks between them. This makes it much easier for them to also sell to larger stores and supermarkets, as together they are much more likely to be able to meet the demands of these larger businesses.

The rise of fast food has led to the decline of local food traditions and cultures, and has severely altered the way in which consumers view food. Fortunately, it would seem as though the “slow food” movement is continuously gaining momentum, and once this has been embraced to a larger extent, we will soon be able to see improvements in the overall health of the general public, as well as that of the environment.