DRINK > Bobbie Peels, North Melbourne (15/20)

North Melbourne has more than its fare share of great pubs and the 'Bobbie Peels' is one of those that absolutely crackles. Nestled on the corner of Queensberry and Peel Streets in North Melbourne, Bobbie Peels stands as a testament to the city’s vibrant pub culture. This charming establishment seamlessly blends the warmth of a…

ByCrispy5 days ago0Comments

EAT > MELBOURNE

EAT > Cape Restaurant, Cape Schank (18/20)

This has to be my 4th visit to ‘Cape’ at the RACV Cape Schank Resort. The venue is a large hotel with an excellent golf club located at the far end of Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula (about 1.5 hours from Melbourne by car). It might not be the most luxurious accomodation on the peninsula or…

ByCrispyDecember 1, 20240Comments

EAT > MILAN

EAT > Mamma Rosa Osteria, Milan (16/20)

Tucked into Piazza Cincinnato, Mama Rosa stands as a testament to Milan's enduring culinary traditions. The decades-old establishment delivers sophisticated comfort in a setting that balances refinement with familial warmth. One of the best known restaurants in Milan, Mamma Rosa has been in business for decades, originally as a salumeria and enoteca with a small restaurant…

BySimonNovember 17, 20240Comments

EAT > VINCENZA

EAT > Matteo Grandi in Basilica, Vicenza (18/20)

This sparely furnished restaurant, named after the chef whose stature matches his name, is situated at ground level in a classic building in the centre of Vicenza. It faces on to the famous Piazza dei Signori and from your table you have a view across the Piazza to the Renaissance-style Basilica by the famous Italian architect Andrea della Gondola (1508-1580) who soon…

BySimonNovember 13, 20240Comments

STAY > ITALY

STAY > Villa Abbazia, Follina (17/20)

A bit off the regular tourist track, Follina is a beautiful village in the Prosecco Hills, it is about an hour north of Venice. The Villa Abbazia is a small Relais & Chateau hotel set in an 18th century mansion that blends historical grandeur with contemporary luxury. The restaurant La Corte has a one star…

BySimonNovember 11, 20240Comments

EAT > ZURICH

EAT > Baur’s, Zurich (18/20)

Baur’s is an up-market brasserie and part of the famous Hotel Baur au Lac in Zurich but with its own equally grand entrance. Recently spruced up by the Gorgeous company from London whose credits include Harrods, The Langham, Peninsula Hotels and many more, it is the grandest brasserie we’ve visited. One star Michelin,…

BySimonNovember 11, 20240Comments

EAT > MELBOURNE

EAT > Circl Wine House, Melbourne (18/20)

A vinous wonderland in Melbourne's CBD, Circl has quickly established itself as one of the city's most ambitious wine destinations. Under the guidance of award-winning Head Sommelier Xavier Vigier, this Punch Lane establishment houses a staggering collection of 1,500 wines, with an unprecedented 150 available by the glass. AMBIANCE > The two-story venue on Punch…

ByCrispyNovember 2, 20240Comments

DRINK > PARIS

DRINK > Isadora Cocktail Bar, Paris (16/20)

On a quiet street in the vibrant Les Halles neighbourhood, Isadora Cocktail Bar is a sophisticated oasis that transports patrons to the glamorous era of 1920s Paris. This hidden gem offers a perfect blend of artisanal mixology, elegant ambiance, and impeccable service. AMBIANCE > Upon entering Isadora, guests are immediately enveloped in an atmosphere…

ByEd ItorOctober 28, 20240Comments

DRINK > PARIS

DRINK > Cicchetti, Paris (14/20)

In the bustling 2nd arrondissement of Paris, Cicchetti is an Italian Tapas Wine Bar. Confused? Don't be. The concept of Cicchetti or Italian tapas, are small plates meant to be shared, originating from Venice and just the thing to complement that bottle or two of wine you are likely to explore with friends.…

ByEd ItorOctober 28, 20240Comments

EAT > BURGUNDY

EAT > L’Épi d’Or, Paris (17/20)

L'Épi d'Or: A Parisian Bistro Reborn Nestled in the heart of Paris's 1st arrondissement, L'Épi d'Or stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of traditional French bistro cuisine. This historic establishment, dating back to 1880, has recently undergone a revival under the expert guidance of Michelin-starred chef Jean-François Piège, (his fifth restaurant with partner…

ByEd ItorOctober 20, 20240Comments

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