Joe & the Juice, Soho, London

Hangover Heaven

If you're looking for a comfy place to relax, "study", or catch up with friends in a central location, Joe & the Juice is one of my top suggestions. This juice bar offers a large selection of fresh juices and smoothies with a blend of good taste and nutrition. The average price per juice is a reasonable £3.80... The cafe also sells healthy sandwiches and snacks. I tried the Hangover Heaven which contained orange, elderflower and mint. Definitely check this place out next time you're looking for a rest stop after shopping on Oxford Street!

Spice Market, Leicester Square, London

Starter

Pad Thai

Kaffir Lime Cheescake

I was delighted with my Southeast Asian meal at Jean George's Spice Market... Compared to it's New York counterpart, the London location was casual, yet elegant. Our waiter was quite helpful and recommended a variety of vegetarian dishes for our meal. We kept it light and tried a special dish not on the menu (asparagus based) and the Vegetarian Pad Thai. For dessert, we had the Kaffir Lime Cheesecake with Mandarin sorbet and braised pineapple. Given this was a lunch visit, I would definitely visit Spice Market again for a weekend dinner to experience a more exciting and lively atmosphere.

Dishoom, Leicester Square, London

Wada Pav

Black Dal

The BEST Indian Food in Central London (that I've tried.. and trust me, I've searched hard)! Dishoom offers an amazing menu that contains everything from Wada Pav and Bhel to Black Daal and Roomali Roti. And surprisingly, each dish tastes magnificently authentic with a delightful flavour and spice level. I've been to Dishoom four times in the past month (and I don't even live in London yet)! Every thing I've tried was delicious - Paneer Tikka, Wada Pav, Crispy Okra, Black Dal, Roomali Roti, Garlic Naan, Rose Lassi, Chai, etc... The service is also quite good with friendly waiters that may offer you free chai if you appear to be a "frequent customer." For now, Dishoom remains my top pick for authentic Indian cuisine in London. 

Novikov, Green Park, London

Crispy Shitake Dumplings

Sushi Rolls

Currently, one of London's most talked about restaurants... Novikov is enormous, pricey, and delicious! The place offers two restaurants with different cuisines: the Italian Room or Asian Room. Purely based on recommendation, I opted to try the Asian Room and was delighted with my experience. We didn't order much, but somehow managed to have a full and satisfying meal. For drinks, we had the Plum Sakes which were excellent. To eat, we tried the Crispy Shitake Dumplings which were so delicious that we ordered a second round! We had a few other vegetarian Sushi rolls which were great as well - (refer to photos). Looking forward to trying the Italian Room the next time I'm in London town! 

Rosa's Thai Cafe, Spitalfields, London

Rosa's Green Curry

Fresh Summer Rolls

Garlic Brown Rice

Vegetable Pad Thai

I randomly discovered this restaurant online and suggested it as a dinner option with a group of 5 friends... It definitely exceeded expectations by offering a fantastic menu and a cute and cozy ambiance in the Spitalfields area. We tried the Fresh Summer Rolls, Papaya Salad, Fried Spring Rolls, Vegetable Pad Thai, Rosa's Green Curry, and Garlic Brown Rice. Everything was splendid, but I particularly enjoyed the Papaya Salad and Pad Thai. Slightly on the expensive side, but worth a try if you enjoy authentic Thai food!

Cafe Pacifico, Covent Garden, London

Vegetarian Burrito

Quesada Grande

My favoriteeeee Mexican restaurant in the world!! Cafe Pacifico was a weekly haunt for me when I lived in London, and I continue to eat at here whenever I'm in town. The food quality has remained consistent for years (at least for the dishes that I order). Despite being tucked in a hidden lane near to Covent Garden tube station, there will always be a wait during the weekend so plan accordingly! The Pacifico Margaritas (on the rocks) are amazing and I also highly recommend ordering the Quesada Grande (no longer on the menu but made on request)! A must visit if you're into Mexican Cuisine and lively ambiances!

Busaba Eathai, Bond Street, London

Pad Thai Jay

If you're fond of Thai food, you will really love Busaba Eathai! One of my London favorite's, the decor and family-style seating make this restaurant a great place for Lunch or Dinner. I order the same dish pretty much every time: the Pad Thai Jay (rice noodle, broccoli, tofu, courgette, french bean, peanut, bean sprout and lime). If you're lucky, you may even spot an Indian celebrity while you're there! I've bumped into Sachin Tendulkar in the past and some friends have met other famous Bollywood actors as well! 

Serendipity 3, Lincoln Road, Miami

Frozzen Vanilla Hot Chocolate, Cheesecake, and
Frozzen Hot Chocolate

One word: YUM! Made famous by the film of the same name, 'Serendipity' means pleasant surprise or a happy accident. The restaurant has main dishes as well, but is known for its spectacular desserts. This was my first time at the Miami location and I enjoyed the experience, but definitely missed the cozy and fairy land like ambiance of the New York one. We had the Original Frozen Hot Chocolate, Frozzen Vanilla Hot Chocolate, and Cheescake. Price at around $10 for each huge portion dessert, Serendipity 3 makes a great go-to when you're craving a rich and yummy dessert!

Scarpetta, Fontainebleau, Miami

Amedei Chocolate Cake

Ramp Tagliolini

Great spot for authentic Italian cuisine in a stylish environment. With locations in Manhattan and Beverly Hills, I've been told the Miami one is best... Our waiter offered stellar recommendations, including special dishes not on the menu. The wine expert was also helpful in selecting our bottle of red wine for the night, Pelissero Barbaresco 1999. Also, there's a special Vegetarian menu with plenty of options. For starters, we had the Mozzarella in Carrozza and the Brussell Sprouts (not on menu). For main course, we tried the Spaghetti, Ramp Tagliolini, and Farro Risotto. My personal favorite out of the entrees was the Spaghetti - simple and tasty. For dessert, we ordered the rich and delicious, Amedei Chocolate Cake.

Devi, Union Square, New York City

Paneer Bhurji Tacos

Veg Malai Tikka

Shahi Tukra

So, one day for lunch I was deciding whether to have Mexican or Indian... Ended up selecting Indian, but Devi offered much more than that! The restaurant's fusion menu allowed me to satisfy both my Mexican and Indian cravings. Being restaurant week, we got to participate in the three course meal for $24. For appetizers, we tried the Vegetarian Malai Tikka with Eggplant Chutney & Avocado Salad as well as the Paneer & Zucchini Kali Mirch Tikka. For main course we had the Paneer Bhurji Tacos (lol, yes tacos). For dessert, we had the Shahi Tukra (Indian bread pudding) and the Lemon Cardamom Tart with Lime Mint Sorbet. Everything was absolutely delicious. Highly recommend this restaurant for a tasteful Indian fusion meal!

Drinks & More in New York City

This post covers the awesome places I visited for drinks...

View from Hotel Americano Rooftop

Hotel Americano Rooftop Pool/Bar
Chelsea
Offers a stunning view of New York's iconic buildings (Empire State, Chrysler, etc)! With a rectangular pool in the middle of the surrounding deck and lounging chairs/beds, this is the perfect venue for a relaxed nightlife experience.

Drinks at Beauty & Essex

Beauty & Essex 
Lower East Side
Another one of my NY highlights! "Beautiful" atmosphere for a dining or lounge experience... Sat at the bar and tried the Beauty Elixir (Oxley gin, cucumber, strawberry, and sparkling Rose).

Papillon Bistro

Papillon Bistro
Midtown East
Very popular post-work destination for drinks! Gets very crowded inside after 6 pm. We chose to sit outside and sip wine...



Osteria Morini
Soho
We just hung out at the bar for early evening drinks, but apparently this is a highly rated Italian restaurant in the city.

Pipa, Union Square, New York City

Jumbo Asparagus

Manchego Cheese

'Pipa' is slang for 'having a good time' in Spanish. I did just that when I ate at Pipa, Union Square. This family style tapas restaurant had a wonderful selection of dishes. We tried the Manchego cheese, Champiñones (mixed wild mushrooms, rosemary, thyme, garlic, truffle), Jumbo Asparagus (grilled asparagus, avocado, aioli), and the Tortilla Española (Spanish potato, onion and piquillo pepper omelet). For dessert, we had the Bomba de Chocolate (dark chocolate brownie, milk & white chocolate mousses, milk chocolate shell, hazelnut tuille and chocolate, vanilla & hazelnut sauces). The restaurant also sells chandeliers and puts them on display throughout the interior. Great place if you like tapas, but slightly on the pricey side.

HanGawi, Midtown, New York City

Avocado Bibimbap

Pancakes

HanGawi offers delicious vegetarian Korean food in a traditional and authentic setting. You must remove your shoes before being seated at the low-lying tables. The decor was very cozy, however I was not very pleased with the service. For appetizers, we had the Combination Pancakes which consisted of leek, kimchi mushroom & kabocha pumpkin and mung beans. Our main course was the delicious Organic Avocado Bibimbap served with brown rice. I also had the Rose Green Tea which was fab. Great place to eat at if you're looking for unique and yummy food!

121 Fulton Street, Financial District, New York City

Banana French Toast

Brunch... The most popular meal in the city... We randomly stumbled across 121 Fulton Street in search of breakfast food in the Financial District and were quite pleased with our experience. The restaurant had a brunch special: One breakfast item + unlimited Bloody Marys or Mimosas for two hours, all for just $20! They were out of Belgian Waffles, so I ordered the Banana French Toast (Caramelized bananas, cinnamon, and sugar) and tried both cocktails. Apparently this sort of brunch deal exists all over New York, but if you happen to be in the Financial District over the weekend, do check this place out.

Delicatessen, Soho, New York City

Margarita Mac

Cocktails

Typically, I would NEVER order Mac n Cheese at a restaurant... But at Delicatessen, that was impossible to adhere to. This lively Soho restaurant is known for it's variety of Macaroni n Cheese (known as 'Macbar') as well as Burgers. We had the Grilled Artichoke Heart and Tomato Panzanella Salad, followed by the Margarita Mac (fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, parmigiano, fresh basil) which was delicious! The outdoor atmosphere is refreshing, especially in the summertime. There's also a hidden inside section with sofa-lounge style seating (you'll see it on your way to the restroom). The central Soho locations makes Delicatessen a great venue to hit up after you've finished shopping in the area.

Eataly, 5th Avenue, New York City

Cheese Plate

Eataly

Do NOT miss this place the next time you're in New York! Eataly's motto is: "We cook what we sell and we sell what we cook." A supermarket with seven restaurants inside, Eataly gives you the option to taste before you buy. There are different sections for cheese, pasta/pizza, fish, meat, wine, coffee, etc. If you're a true Italian fan (like me), you could spend hours at this place looking around and tasting the various items they sell. I visited with my cousin and we opted for a cheese platter with red wine pairing. The cheeses we sampled included: Ricotta, Parmigiano Reggiano, Marzolino, Taleggio, and Gorgonzola Dolce. Interestingly, the waiter told us the wine we had is only imported and sold by four retailers in the US. We also stopped by the coffee section (Lavazza Caffe) for an espresso on our way out... It did not disappoint! :-)

The Stanton Social, Lower East Side, New York City

California Style Veggie Slider

Baby Spinach Salad

Red Velvet Twinkies

"Social" is the exact word that comes to mind when I remember my amazing experience at The Stanton Social in the Lower East Side. This was the favorite meal of my trip and I highly recommend this restaurant to anyone looking for a fabulous dining experience in New York. Exhibiting a resto-lounge sort of feel, The Stanton Social is a great place to dine with friends if you're up for a fun and posh night out. The dishes are tapas style and tasted incredibly good (the waiters offered brilliant recommendations)! We tried the: Potato & Goat Cheese Pierogies, Thai Sesame Noodle Salad, Baby Spinach Salad, California Style Veggie Burger Slider, and the Red Velvet Twinkies for dessert. I also feel the dishes were reasonably priced and that the restaurant had high value for money. It does gets very crowded (especially on weekends), so be sure to make reservations!

Zerza, East Village, New York City

Saganaki

Baby Arugula & Pear Salad

Zerza is a quiet and cozy Moroccan and Mediterannean restaurant located in a downstairs space in the East Village. The service was slightly sloppy but the food was decent. We had the Mezze Plate which included Hummus, Babaghanough, and Bakoula served with pita bread. I love the Baby Arugula and Pear Salad which was very well prepared! The Saganaki (marinated and fried sheep's milk feta cheese with honey) was also very tasty if you're a cheese lover like me. We also ordered the Vegetables Couscous and the chocolate cake for dessert which was yummy, but took forever to arrive!

Jaiya Thai, Gramercy, New York City

Thai Basil

Papaya Salad

My go to Thai restaurant... Jaiya Thai offers the best authentic and spicy (on request) Thai food in New York City. The food has remained consistent for years (I started coming here in 2006) and the service is incredibly quick! Recently, I had the Papaya Salad, Thai Basil with Tofu, and Pineapple Fried Rice. Other popular dishes include the Tom Yum Puk soup and the Green Curry. I also heard they opened another location on the Upper East Side which is apparently better in taste and quality than the original. Spicy really means *spicy* so order accordingly! :-)

Petite Eats in New York City

New York is an amazing city for food! This post is dedicated to the small bites I relished on my most recent visit...

Kati Roll Menu

Kati Roll Company
Greenwich Village
I love the Achari Paneer rolls, especially after a good night out (junk food)! You get two rolls for $10. The Chicken Tikka roll is popular among non-veggies.

Mamoun's Falafel

Mamoun's
Greenwich Village or East Village
One of the best falafel pita sandwiches I've ever tasted! Everything is prepared fresh and they still charge just $2.50 for each. Also makes for good junk drunk food or a light snack. The hummus and tabouleh are good as well. Spice lovers - add the hot sauce to your pita if you dare!



Shake Shack

Shake Shack

Madison Square Park
This place has a line any time of the day, rain or shine. I waited in line on a Wednesday afternoon in the rain for about 20 minutes myself to get the divine 'Shroom Burger (crisp-fried portobello mushroom filled with melted muenster and chedder cheeses, topped with lettuce, tomato and ShackSauce). The frozen custards are also delicious!

Magnolia Cupcakes

Magnolia Bakery
Greenwich Village or Rockefeller Center or Grand Central Terminal (check for other locations)
My personal favorite for cupcakes! Made famous by Sex and the City, I quite love the original location on Bleecker Street and used to walk from my apartment in TriBeCa just to have a cupcake. The vanilla butter cream frosting cupcakes are what I like best and they're priced at $3.50 each. Also, the Banana Pudding is excellent and a must try!

Georgetown Cupcakes

Georgetown Cupcakes
Soho
This bakery was new to me but I gave it a try and thought it was good. What I really liked about the place was it's cupcake variety- over 20 types of flavors including Cookies & Creme, Cinnamon, Chocolate Mint, etc. I had the Red Velvet one and thought it was good. Priced at $2.75 each.

Baked by Melissa
Soho or Union Square (check for other locations)
These bite-sized stuffed cupcakes truly satisfy a sweet craving. Plenty of variety where flavors are concerned and they're priced at $1.00 each.

Scoozi, Newbury Street, Boston

Caesar Salad

If you've studied or lived in Boston, you definitely know Scoozi... A casual and tiny cafe situated in the middle of Newbury Street, Scoozi is one of the best cafes to hangout at in Boston. Known for its sangrias, pizzas, and pastas, Scoozi has great food at affordable prices. I kept my meal light and just had a Caesar salad, but I've always loved the Pasta Verdicchio (spaghetti, tomatoes, basil, artichokes with Parmesan cheese and white wine sauce). Do visit on a sunny day, as the outdoor patio is lovely to sit at and watch those who pass by. There's almost always a wait for a table, so do plan in advance!

Teatro, Theatre District, Boston

Burrata Tortellini

Everything!

al Buio Cake

Teatro excels in offering delicious and affordable Italian food in a stylish atmosphere. Most people visit this restaurant before seeing a show in Boston as it's situated in the city's Theatre District. The ambiance is creatively modeled after a "theatre" with low lighting and arched ceilings. Teatro's menu comprises of the typical Italian fare: salads, pastas, pizzas, risottos, but with incredible taste. The menu also has great sharing options. The standouts of our meal included the red wine sangria, Eggplant Rollatini (excellent!), White cheese with Hot Peppers & Sea Salt Pizza, Spinach and Mascarpone Ravioli, and the Burrata Tortellini. We also tried the "al Buio" dark chocolate cake for dessert, which would have tasted better if it was served warm. Overall, great restaurant for tasty Italian food in a trendy setting... definitely my Boston favorite!

Boston Tea Stop, Harvard Square (Cambridge), Boston

Not many details to write about this cafe except that it has the best bubble tea and Mochi ice cream ever! A great place to sit and catch up with friends for hours (they will never kick you out). I used to spend hours here with my college friends sipping on tea and playing the various board games offered by the cafe. In bubble teas, my personal favorite is the Taro milk tea with boba. In Mochi, I love the green tea flavor...