The Grill at BEAUSiTE
Zermatt, Switzerland
Pictured: Tenderloin of Swiss Veal
After a long day of hiking through the picturesque village of Zermatt, I was excited to treat myself to a local, hearty meal. Though I did not have a reservation, the restaurant in my hotel welcomed me in enthusiastically and found the perfect spot for me to dine right at the bar. From here, I watched the magnificence of the Chef as he chopped and cooked each patron’s meal right before my eyes. It was an absolutely incredible dining experience, one also highlight by the fact that it embraced both my Italian and German heritage!
Shoo Shoo
NoLita, NYC
Pictured: Shook-Shooka (clever) ft cut tomatoes, cucumbers olives & zaatar and challah bread. Harissa Burger with harissa aioli
Shoo Shoo is an instant favorite for me! I love exploring NYC’s Mediterranean food-scene and Nolita just happens to be home to some of the best out there. Perfect for both a date night or afternoon brunch with the girls.
Little Rascal
NoLita, NYC
Pictured: Cacik
While a friend was in town, I decided to treat them to a Mediterranean dinner at Little Rascal. This Cacik appetizer (Turkish yogurt with cucumbers and herbs) was even more refreshing than it looks. For my main course I enjoyed the mouth watering lamb brochette. What started as a casual meal turned into an amazing dinner. I’m so lucky this restaurant is located only steps away from my front door!
Kuxe
Greenwich Village, NYC
Pictured: Chile Relleno with a side of beans and rice
A visit back to my old neighborhood to check out one of NYC’s newest Mexican restaurants. To say I’m obsessed is an understatement. Yes, I had multiple cocktails.
South Austin Beer Garden
Austin, Texas
Pictured: BBQ Pork Sandwich with hot sauce and a side of mac
Texas! Came for the tacos & stayed for the BBQ.
Pinto Garden
West Village, NYC
Pictured: Homemade Green Curry with Chicken, locally sourced vegetables and side of roti
Perfect girls’ night out in the city, featuring authentic and locally sourced Thai food, Aperol Spritz and a cozy, garden-like setting.
Hello Saigon
Greenwich Village, NYC
Pictured: Crispy Fried Pork Spring Roll & Thai Iced Tea
One of my favorite local restaurants! Some of my go-to dishes include the Pho Hello Saigon and Ten Ingredient Fried Rice. Located directly on Bleecker Street, Hello Saigon is located in one of the liveliest neighbors in NYC (and luckily for me, within walking distance). I would eat here every week for the rest of my life if I could!
Rule of Thirds
Brooklyn, New York
Pictured: Blade Steak Tonkatsu
In my opinion, a meal at Rule of Thirds is best enjoyed family style. Just keep those yummy foods coming!
Date Night:
Valentine’s Day
I’ve only recently discovered my love for French cuisine, specifically French burgers. My partner and I spend most of our time together doing what we both love: EATING! And so it should come as absolutely no surprise to anyone that the Feast of Saint Valentine is a holiday we take very seriously.
With a newly reopened indoor dining plan, the opportunity to dine somewhere new was perfect for a couple of NYC residents like us. So we decided to hop into a car and head right over to Brooklyn. Café Paulette, located across the street from Fort Greene Park, is a cozy French bistro that immediately takes you back in time. From the moment you arrive, the welcoming staff makes you feel right at home.
Not that we ever need an excuse, but we decided to treat ourselves to a full-course dinner that included some of our favorites; fresh oysters, burger ft sweet potato fries, crème brûlée, pot de crème au chocolat and a wine carafe to share. After a few hours of eating, drinking and laughing, we left feeling so warm and happy. It was truly a lovely way to spend Valentine’s Day.
Brooklyn, New York