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 > 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

EAT > BURGUNDY

EAT > Aux Terrasses, Tournus (19/20)

I found Aux Terrasses in Tournus entirely by accident. A string of Google searches, reviews in various online papers (the ones with reasonable travel sections), Tablet Guide, Michelin Guide and it made it to the top of the list. Offering a smart hotel (read the review here), a charming Michelin-starred restaurant (that offers an exceptional…

ByEd ItorOctober 20, 20240Comments

STAY > FRANCE STAY > PARIS

STAY > Aux Terrasses, Tournus, Bourgogne (19/20)

19/20 Nestled in the heart of Burgundy, Aux Terrasses offers a delightful blend of gastronomic excellence and exceptionally comfortable accommodation. A charming hotel and Michelin Star restaurant (review here) combination that provides an ideal base for exploring the picturesque town of Tournus and the surrounding wine country. AMBIANCE > The hotel Aux Terrasses features…

ByEd ItorOctober 14, 20240Comments

DRINK > WINE DRINK > WINE > Pinot Noir

WINE > La Maison Romane, Hautes-Côtes de Nuits 2018(91/100 points)

La Maison Romane's 2018 Hautes-Côtes de Nuits is a captivating expression of Pinot Noir that showcases the unique winemaking philosophy of founder Oronce de Beler. This biodynamic wine offers a delightful balance of elegance and rustic charm. APPEARANCE & AROMA > Medium ruby color with good clarity. Vibrant and expressive, intertwining notes of…

ByEd ItorOctober 9, 20240Comments

EAT > PARIS

EAT > Le Severo, Paris (15/20)

It is one of the most famous carnivore restaurants in the world, alongside Peter Luger Steak House in Brooklyn and Vlados Steak House in Richmond, Le Severo is a destination for those who love meat. Nestled in the 14th arrondissement of Paris, Le Severo has been a meat lover's haven since 1987. Owned and operated…

ByEd ItorOctober 8, 20240Comments

Best Choice for Creatives