Phoenix Magazine Restaurants to Try to Enjoy
Photographer/Author
Eileen M Shinners
Restaurant Critic
Europe - International - Universal
Photographer/Author
Eileen M Shinners
Restaurant Critic
Europe - International - Universal
Ristorante La Loggia
Piazzale Michelangiolo
Piazzale Michelangiolo
A coffee with biscuits, it was beautiful here, the views were wonderful, and the service was what was suppose to be. A view over Florence and a journey to discovery in Italy.
Il Bottegone
The food was enough, the ice-cream delicious, and the ambiance fitted being in view of the Duomo. It was a quick meal that was needed, arriving in Florence, just searching for the best..... In the light of the Italian, very well indeed. This was the Restaurant in the Hotel I was staying in, after the disaster of Rivoire I decided a dessert was needed, I did just that, now there is a women chef here, and the dessert was good. nu Quo - Cavour
Rivoire - Florence
I found three Restaurants - Two were well worth the visit, the third served me a piece of steak, I felt sick, plus the stupidity that someone had mentioned that I had arrived. Fame has it's qualities, but it also has it's intrusions. I refused to pay, for the steak that was still alive, and for the stupidity of the mind games. What a shame that sheep will follow, and the women Chef's felt the need to play. Rivorie and never again.
Grand Hotel Royal - Sorrento
Sorrento - I had now turned my adventure to where I was staying, walking along getting as close to the sea as possible. My eyes do need to have the view of the sea, and the mountains. I had found a beautiful Hotel. A stop for lunch, the wash room first, always check them out as it is certainly part of the journey. I then found a table in the restaurant by the pool, overlooking the Bay of Naples, the romance of Italy. I am in Love. I decided to try some vegetables, Italian of course. The fish complimented the vegetables very well, so to dessert or pudding, my pleasure was Chocolate Cake with ice-cream, why wouldn't I, it's Italy, and it is famous for it's Ice-cream.... Thank you for the peace, that's all I strive for. Very attentive, I enjoyed. The Manager said hello too, all in a days work. A beautiful hotel, in a wonderful setting. Pedro came up in conversation with the staff, I thought he drove the bus not waited tables, perhaps he has two jobs. I decided to let that one go.
Grand Hotel - Qvisisana
Capri, exploring and I had decided to taste the delights of Salmon, Lemon Tea and Salmon sandwiches, which were on white bread, a little bit of England I thought. I had decided on Lemon Tea rather than Coffee, as there is only so much coffee one can drink. The wash rooms were exceptional The Grand Hotel Quisisana Capri.
Restaurant Ricenna - Positano
I was lucky enough to enjoy the delightful area of the Amalfi Coast, Positano, Capri, and Sorrento. My dreams have come true, and one or boxes ticked to my delight. The first Restaurant Ricenna, that I had the pleasure of trying was, which seemed to be attached to, I had found a table with a view of the sea, Hotel Covo Dei Saraceni in Positano, I also love the mountains, it is just so beautiful. My safety glass of wine is always a Prosecco, as you may know there are different varieties. Now I was going to try the best, as being the best that is what I deserve.
Fish Trancio Riccola Sco, delicate, every mouthful was a melt in your mouth experience which I enjoyed. Then to Tiramisu Gelato Cafe', if you have ever tried Tiramisu then you will understand the taste, but to my delight this was different, I had never tasted anything like it. Divinely creamy, with real coffee for my pleasure. My meal here was certainly a joy. The service was what I liked, attentive, enjoyable, and always there, even to the point of my mobile being charged for me. I love being spoilt even if I have to pick up the bill.... With the most friendly smile, there for the purpose of making me happy.
Watching beyond the table to the walkway as the games were being played out in front of me by morons, I have excepted that fame comes with the price of idiots, never a moment of peace, an applause for the few who felt that they needed to try, and spoil my moment of pleasure. And they follow, and they live close to me, and they follow, and the police know and do nothing.
Fish Trancio Riccola Sco, delicate, every mouthful was a melt in your mouth experience which I enjoyed. Then to Tiramisu Gelato Cafe', if you have ever tried Tiramisu then you will understand the taste, but to my delight this was different, I had never tasted anything like it. Divinely creamy, with real coffee for my pleasure. My meal here was certainly a joy. The service was what I liked, attentive, enjoyable, and always there, even to the point of my mobile being charged for me. I love being spoilt even if I have to pick up the bill.... With the most friendly smile, there for the purpose of making me happy.
Watching beyond the table to the walkway as the games were being played out in front of me by morons, I have excepted that fame comes with the price of idiots, never a moment of peace, an applause for the few who felt that they needed to try, and spoil my moment of pleasure. And they follow, and they live close to me, and they follow, and the police know and do nothing.
Aux P'tits Anges - Rue Mareceau - Cannes
I had written about this restaurant in my second book Friends, Accepting The Changes. I wanted to review this restaurant as I had given it a thumbs up in my book, and I wasn't disappointed at all. New Year dinner for me. I was placed at the back of the restaurant, slightly in the way, but I was happy. I could write about whole menu so that your mouths would water... Amuse Bouche; Chestnut soup with roasted hazelnut - The taste of divine food had begun.. Une Mise en Appetit; Le foie gras de canard mi-cuit et truffle, with a delightful chutney... le petit nid de homard aux zestes d'agrumes.
Pour Le Plaisir Le duo Saint Jacques et Turbot juste saisis, sur une mousseline de legumes oublies, caramel de vin rouge a la citronnelle - Mais encore; Le filet de biche poele a la feve de Tonka, ecrassee de topinambours au miel truffle.
Une Pause; Granite de mandarine, ecume Grand Marnier - Tout en Legerete Sucree; Comme un Mont Blanc, mousse legere aux marrons, chantilly vanille.
I started this divine feast with a chestnut soup that was delicate with a few roasted hazelnut placed neatly on top, it was creamy. The next part of my New Year feast was truffled homemade duck foie gras, pumpkin waffle, with fruit chutney, and a small lobster nest with citron zests. I was in heaven... Forgotten vegetables, which the taste was of parsnips, a mousseline, with Scallops & Turbot duo, red wine, and citronella - Could it really get any better, the French certainly know how to serve food, and I love to eat, to review it.
Doe filet with seeds, Jerusalem artichokes mashed with truffled honey - A slight pause was needed before dessert. Granite of tangerines with grand Marnier foam, I found it cleared the palette for the dessert which was delightfully presented as a clock of the New Year to come, Mont Blanc, light chestnut mousse, with whipped cream. enough to make your mouth water.
I was looked after very well indeed, and the food was divine, much like the menu that is in my book. Magic, becomes magic. I am Magic, from pen to paper to create a book, to find that I had the experience of the book. I am that Angel, that works, and walks with Angels - You Served with such professionalism. The bird in the cage; I do not think so. This bird has flown the cage, and is enjoying the freedom of life. FREEDOM - Do you understand that?
Pour Le Plaisir Le duo Saint Jacques et Turbot juste saisis, sur une mousseline de legumes oublies, caramel de vin rouge a la citronnelle - Mais encore; Le filet de biche poele a la feve de Tonka, ecrassee de topinambours au miel truffle.
Une Pause; Granite de mandarine, ecume Grand Marnier - Tout en Legerete Sucree; Comme un Mont Blanc, mousse legere aux marrons, chantilly vanille.
I started this divine feast with a chestnut soup that was delicate with a few roasted hazelnut placed neatly on top, it was creamy. The next part of my New Year feast was truffled homemade duck foie gras, pumpkin waffle, with fruit chutney, and a small lobster nest with citron zests. I was in heaven... Forgotten vegetables, which the taste was of parsnips, a mousseline, with Scallops & Turbot duo, red wine, and citronella - Could it really get any better, the French certainly know how to serve food, and I love to eat, to review it.
Doe filet with seeds, Jerusalem artichokes mashed with truffled honey - A slight pause was needed before dessert. Granite of tangerines with grand Marnier foam, I found it cleared the palette for the dessert which was delightfully presented as a clock of the New Year to come, Mont Blanc, light chestnut mousse, with whipped cream. enough to make your mouth water.
I was looked after very well indeed, and the food was divine, much like the menu that is in my book. Magic, becomes magic. I am Magic, from pen to paper to create a book, to find that I had the experience of the book. I am that Angel, that works, and walks with Angels - You Served with such professionalism. The bird in the cage; I do not think so. This bird has flown the cage, and is enjoying the freedom of life. FREEDOM - Do you understand that?
New York - New York - Cannes
I felt like a naughty child, being put into the corner on a comfy sofa, the fire beside me wasn't alight, the glow would have been welcoming. I had decided to try something different, French, I love French food. So here I am in New York, New York Cannes. The rather large ornament by the window intrigue me as to it's purpose, a man with a camera, and a bucket of paint over his head. One Cocktail Rossini, well it was New Year, and Loup Grille, which was fish, mash Truffle, very tasty, my waiter Antony cleared my fish of it's bones. I was happy with the service. If you haven't tried Truffle mash then give it a try, rich, as richness goes. A gin, and tonic before I left the building. This Restaurant was situated underneath my hotel. Hotel Splendid. As of all the Restaurants in Cannes they knew how to please a client without crossing the boundaries.
L'ORTENSIA - FRANCE
L'ORTENSIA - France - This one of my favourite restaurants in France, if you are travelling through take the time to visit. I am looked after from the time I step inside the restaurant to the time that I leave. The food is delightful, it feels like a little piece of heaven, the aroma of the food is something worth waiting for, the mountains are something to keep in your heart. I loved the views, and will always keep a little piece of this restaurant in my heart. New Years Eve was special from start to finish, I would so recommend this restaurant. Recommended in the MICHELIN guide for it's excellence. Fine dining, Champagne, local wines, and excellent food. French food is the best, cook with a fine art, served with the greatest of pleaure. Thank you L'ORTENSIA - Beautiful.
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Il Cardellino Restaurante - Castiglioncello Italy
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Meeting time with some fun, and I was going to do just that, here I was in Italy meeting an Italian friend, we were going to a small restaurante close to the sea. Il Cardellino Restaurante & Lounge A beautiful place in Castiglioncello Italy, the sun was setting, the Prosecco flowing, the laughter filled the restaurant, our voices were heard above others, but that's the same wherever I go. We enjoyed the food immensely, making sure that the desserts that we had we enjoyable, so we order all of them just to be sure. I watched the sunset into the sea, I love the sunsets, it's magical to say the least. Leaving with a Lemoncello for medicinal purposes only. This restaurante is a must visit, they listened, and watched us laughing the night away, indeed attentive.... You Served... This time was excellent.
The next day I went into this Restaurante they were not so attentive, I was sat at a table that wasn't to my liking at all. Next to the door. Not happy at all. As I started drinking my drink, the waiter came over to move me nearer to the sea. Sometimes people realise that what they are doing is wrong. Or they just get a phone call - It's a shame that they had to be prompted. Italian fine dining by the sea. ll Cardellino was in the most beautiful setting and the food was a delight, puddings galore all created with a finesse. Rome was a search for the pizza and finding the best restaurant just for that Osteria Bacco Roma. Grand Hotel Royal Sorrento was a cut above the rest. Restaurante Ricenna Positano came with the best Tiramisu I have ever tasted.
The next day I went into this Restaurante they were not so attentive, I was sat at a table that wasn't to my liking at all. Next to the door. Not happy at all. As I started drinking my drink, the waiter came over to move me nearer to the sea. Sometimes people realise that what they are doing is wrong. Or they just get a phone call - It's a shame that they had to be prompted. Italian fine dining by the sea. ll Cardellino was in the most beautiful setting and the food was a delight, puddings galore all created with a finesse. Rome was a search for the pizza and finding the best restaurant just for that Osteria Bacco Roma. Grand Hotel Royal Sorrento was a cut above the rest. Restaurante Ricenna Positano came with the best Tiramisu I have ever tasted.
Cafe' Medevio
Just breathe, take in the beautiful views, my heart decided to do just that. I can now understand why people make their way to Santorini. The blue churches below, the castle in view, the rather large boats, or cruise ships, and the smaller ships that ferry the tourists to their destination of the hot springs, the volcano, and the travelling to other islands.
I sat, and took in all that I needed too, and then ordered my food, a Chocolate Crepe, with Honey, I know but I have the joy of not having a great deal of extra weight on me so this is a treat. A pot of tea to my delight, as tea wasn't a beverage that the hotel had in the rooms. So, meditate, and join me in the pictures of above, and enjoy the wonderful views, the ambiance of Santorini, and the food, how could you not.
A walk towards the sunset, my third visit was to the Tramonto Lounge Bar, I sat, and waited for the sun to set, a glass of Prosecco, and a fitting end to a day of experiencing. I wasn't disappointed, there it was slowly slipping behind the clouds, and into the sea, another wonderful day had come to an end. I would most certainly recommend this island for a visit, but take in the relaxing, spiritual side. That's the side most people miss. The next day was a day of complete relaxation, and a few hours at the spa. One has to review. Thank you Santorini. The pleasure was mine for sure.
I sat, and took in all that I needed too, and then ordered my food, a Chocolate Crepe, with Honey, I know but I have the joy of not having a great deal of extra weight on me so this is a treat. A pot of tea to my delight, as tea wasn't a beverage that the hotel had in the rooms. So, meditate, and join me in the pictures of above, and enjoy the wonderful views, the ambiance of Santorini, and the food, how could you not.
A walk towards the sunset, my third visit was to the Tramonto Lounge Bar, I sat, and waited for the sun to set, a glass of Prosecco, and a fitting end to a day of experiencing. I wasn't disappointed, there it was slowly slipping behind the clouds, and into the sea, another wonderful day had come to an end. I would most certainly recommend this island for a visit, but take in the relaxing, spiritual side. That's the side most people miss. The next day was a day of complete relaxation, and a few hours at the spa. One has to review. Thank you Santorini. The pleasure was mine for sure.
Santorini by day, Santorini by night. All comes with the added zest of complete relaxation, a joy to be in such a beautiful place of sheer beauty, and my soul's peace.
I was booked to see what was outside the hotel, and I was not disappointed. A day of indifferent viewing, a tour to see the sites of Santorini. There was a moment of understanding as we coached along the road. Making our way to the red beach, this was a beach that by boat would have been better, the landslide a few days before made it difficult to climb down, not on my agenda for sure. But it did give me time for the souvenirs, and the fridge magnets. A family thing. Off to the ruins, much like the site of Pompeii in Naples Italy. A volcanic disruption. Pompeii was significantly different.
The travelling resumed, and we made our way to the black beach, and the Cafe' Demilmar my first restaurant of the day. First of all I had to just put my feet in the sea, a cool down. Lunch for me was a bowl of mussels, and a plate of meatballs, the only issue I have with beach cafe's is that you do tend to have the tourist menu with the inevitable chips, mussels, and meatballs eaten, chips left.
A Cosmopolitan Cocktail, a dessert of ice-cream, and an ice-coffee. Life couldn't get any better, people watching brought the inevitable play, more fool them. That's all I have to say on that one. I am visiting the sea of the gods, and you play. Leaving with yet another jogging hat we were off to wine tasting, I joined the bus. A great setting, beautiful views, and the service was pleased to help. Thank you.
Wine tasting, Santo winery, weddings. A monastery. And such amazing views. I was thinking about jogging to the top of this mountain, as I have climbed many hills, this was no different. But happy to bus this one, the heat of the day was hot, and getting hotter. Wine tasting is something that always finds me, and I am a great lover of the best, and only the best. Whatever country, it has to be tasty, with fine additions of qualities.
The views were spectacular, the wines were stronger as each one was poured for taste. There is a wonderful place to get married here, if that's what you are looking for. Then to the Monastery which was a climb away. If only for the views it is a climb that should be made. A restaurant up here would be magnificent, the views are breathtaking. The church was open, and at last I could light a candle for my son.
The travelling resumed, and we made our way to the black beach, and the Cafe' Demilmar my first restaurant of the day. First of all I had to just put my feet in the sea, a cool down. Lunch for me was a bowl of mussels, and a plate of meatballs, the only issue I have with beach cafe's is that you do tend to have the tourist menu with the inevitable chips, mussels, and meatballs eaten, chips left.
A Cosmopolitan Cocktail, a dessert of ice-cream, and an ice-coffee. Life couldn't get any better, people watching brought the inevitable play, more fool them. That's all I have to say on that one. I am visiting the sea of the gods, and you play. Leaving with yet another jogging hat we were off to wine tasting, I joined the bus. A great setting, beautiful views, and the service was pleased to help. Thank you.
Wine tasting, Santo winery, weddings. A monastery. And such amazing views. I was thinking about jogging to the top of this mountain, as I have climbed many hills, this was no different. But happy to bus this one, the heat of the day was hot, and getting hotter. Wine tasting is something that always finds me, and I am a great lover of the best, and only the best. Whatever country, it has to be tasty, with fine additions of qualities.
The views were spectacular, the wines were stronger as each one was poured for taste. There is a wonderful place to get married here, if that's what you are looking for. Then to the Monastery which was a climb away. If only for the views it is a climb that should be made. A restaurant up here would be magnificent, the views are breathtaking. The church was open, and at last I could light a candle for my son.
Off t.o Oia, and the sunset, my greatest joys, the sunrise, and the sunset. I had caught the sunrise the first day of my visit here in Santorini. Such an amazing gift that the universe has given. The sunset I would have to find for myself, not worried about that one. I travel for me. My first visit was to a church that was open, a candle for my son. The second visit was to a Patisserie, Cafe' Medevio.
Les Terrasses De La Baie - La Mont St Michel - France
La Mont St Michel. What a beautiful place to visit. I went with the tour, but left them as soon as I got to Mont St Michel. Having the gift of feeling, seeing, and hearing Angels, Masters, and Spirits, I needed to enjoy this time on my own, walking through to find what I needed to. It's a spiritual place that you have to take in, and understand. I know it does get full of tourists, but as long as there is respect for the divine then it's good for the Mont St Michel. Archangel Michael stands tall as he protects all. My guide through this beautiful place he cleared the decks so to speak. Everything was moved out of the way. I always have my son Brendon with me as my guide, and the two together gives a powerful support, and connection.
Being guided to Les Terrasses De La Baie was where I was meant to be. I was served very quickly, and had ordered a selection of desserts, a coffee, and a calvados. When in France eat, and drink like the French do. The view was beautiful, the tide out. From here I walked to the bus with a stop for a glass of Champagne. The sun was shining, the skies were warm. Returning back to the ship. The beautiful countryside of France was there. The Pleasure for me was peaceful. The Angel was bought. Beautiful place.
Being guided to Les Terrasses De La Baie was where I was meant to be. I was served very quickly, and had ordered a selection of desserts, a coffee, and a calvados. When in France eat, and drink like the French do. The view was beautiful, the tide out. From here I walked to the bus with a stop for a glass of Champagne. The sun was shining, the skies were warm. Returning back to the ship. The beautiful countryside of France was there. The Pleasure for me was peaceful. The Angel was bought. Beautiful place.
Auberge de Combes
Cordes sur Ciel - France
Cordes sur Ciel - France
What a wonderful place to eat, the visit was Birthday time, the food of course was French at it's finest. This is definitely a place to visit. The mountain views are something to keep a relaxed focus on. This restaurant is run by the family, and they were there with a polite approach, extremely helpful with the French translation when needed. French I am learning, and in my difficulty I managed to get myself heard, they were certainly patient.
Then to the food which was presented with an explanation to what I would be eating, culinary delights from the kitchen, the chef to the table was at it's best by far. The wine expensive, and certainly worth the price, an excellent taste, with an aroma of heaven. I am going to recommend this restaurant, but wear flat shoes as being in the mountain wearing heels is hard work. French Cuisine, Hospitality, and with a Divine View. Enjoy - Without a doubt a fantastic place to visit. |
L'Enclume Cartmel
French; divinely created, mouth wateringly Delicious; a restaurant that speaks for itself. Fresh, interesting with an attentiveness of the staff. I sat at a table where I could see everything except for the kitchen, but to my surprise I was asked if I wanted to see what went on behind the wall and introduced to the chef who didn't look to sure. The menu was extensive and came with a different taste on all levels. I will return. I always find French restaurants tip top with the way they serve and how they look after the clientele that walk over their threshold.
This is a beautiful restaurant. I am a great lover of fine dining and French even better. Looking at my menu was ingenious in itself. Just something special for the diner. A stamp with the anvil to open to see the list of divine food. The list I loved. Boltardy beetroot, stout, cumbrian crag. The journey had begun. The list is endless in the taste of sheer quality. I had nine servings each one was different but also complimented the journey. One set to another, with the pork, eel and fermented sweetcorn, Beef dumpling with elderflower, Raw Cornish Mackerel and vegetables in coal oil. Asparagus, bay shrimp, aged pork, wilted kale and honey wine.
Then came the desserts of a dream; Raw milk ice cream, preserved strawberry, sweet cicely. Anvil; which was a salted cream. Caramel, mint stones and peach petit. I was happy; wine that flowed creamy, vanilla and water that complimented the wine. I loved the setting and was met by the owner as I walked towards the restaurant. I cannot fault the food or the service. I will return.
Then came the desserts of a dream; Raw milk ice cream, preserved strawberry, sweet cicely. Anvil; which was a salted cream. Caramel, mint stones and peach petit. I was happy; wine that flowed creamy, vanilla and water that complimented the wine. I loved the setting and was met by the owner as I walked towards the restaurant. I cannot fault the food or the service. I will return.
Osteria Bacco - Roma
Roma, Roma how we love the streets of Rome. The weather warm and warmer still. It's a City with the biggest buzz. Birthday time; time for a family reunion and some good food, wine with the laughter of the family unit. "We are family, I've got all my children with me." Even my son who sit's in heaven joined us for the journey of my birthday. Our restaurant we stepped into just for a drink at first. Then the pizza's arrived in gusto.
Pizza mozzarella, cheeses, all on a base that was defined thin and beautiful. I am not a fan of Pizza but these were good. Beers all around except for me; a glass of Montepulciano wine for me to enjoy. Life can sometimes be so beautiful and this was certainly the most wonderful time for us as a family. Water of course always sits on the table and the celebrations had begun. Lunch before the trip to Trevi fountain and the Spanish steps. Thank you for looking after us Osteria Bacco we were the gladiators of Roma.
Pizza mozzarella, cheeses, all on a base that was defined thin and beautiful. I am not a fan of Pizza but these were good. Beers all around except for me; a glass of Montepulciano wine for me to enjoy. Life can sometimes be so beautiful and this was certainly the most wonderful time for us as a family. Water of course always sits on the table and the celebrations had begun. Lunch before the trip to Trevi fountain and the Spanish steps. Thank you for looking after us Osteria Bacco we were the gladiators of Roma.
Cacio & Pepe - Roma by the River
Birthday dinner with the typically Italian Restaurant close to the river. it's a walk from the city centre and gives you the ambience of Roma. Ravioli with shrimp and sea-bass, what more could one ask for.
Tasty; we all had a typical Italian dish with the noise of the restaurant getting louder and louder. I had a Sicilian dessert, when in Roma eat like a Queen and I most certainly did. Thank you for the beautiful food and the ambience of Italy. |
Birra Moretti - River Tiber - Roma
Stopping for a cocktail and of course trying the well-known Limoncello. Rome had been everything it was meant to be. Welcoming, joyful, busy, with the food and the wine. Roma was everything that a Birthday should be. Where to next, life is just beginning and a New Year beckoned with every breath. I had been blessed with a family unit and then to be blessed with a new baby within the family brought the acceptance to the journey of life.
Restaurant Le Freti - ANNECY FRANCE
Looking for a restaurant out of the way of people, it was so busy, and most restaurants were on the side as I walked past. Too much into the open, sometimes it is good to have some kind of privacy. Le Freti offered just that. As I sit down the phone rings, ok, so they now know I have arrived. A French Bistro, we want that don't we, well, we are in France.
I was looking for the cheese with Champagne, but that menu was only for two people, I was offered the local white wine. Most places try to offer me white wine, and I really do not find it interesting at all. It doesn't have enough for me, maybe one day I will be presented with a white wine that actually finds my taste buds and actually tastes good.
A Cheese fondue, tasty, the bread was soaked in cheese, but the warmth soon went out of the cheese, the flame was not strong enough to keep the cheese warm. No desert as I wanted the best Patisserie in Annecy.
I was looking for the cheese with Champagne, but that menu was only for two people, I was offered the local white wine. Most places try to offer me white wine, and I really do not find it interesting at all. It doesn't have enough for me, maybe one day I will be presented with a white wine that actually finds my taste buds and actually tastes good.
A Cheese fondue, tasty, the bread was soaked in cheese, but the warmth soon went out of the cheese, the flame was not strong enough to keep the cheese warm. No desert as I wanted the best Patisserie in Annecy.
The Lake in Geneva, trying to get pictures whilst travelling proved to be quite tricky. I wanted to connect the two, as they are not that far apart. It was a journey of an adventure, I enjoyed, but it is a shame people are so insecure of life.
Rose des Neiges - Chocolaterie - Passeteria - ANNECY FRANCE
A dream, a wish and I was there in the thick of the tourists. Goodness, I should have picked a quieter day. It was so bad, and I had to scramble through the crowds just to see what I wanted to see. It was beautiful. The cakes and maccaroons yet to find, I wanted the best, or one of the best Passeteria's in Annecy and I found it. I was not too sure whether I would get this all through customs, so I had to eat them that day, goodness, really.
I have started a journey of finding the French delights in sweetness. Yes, I am good at exploring for interesting tastes, and delight. Rather than the Adam and Eve situation. Rose des Neiges, and the cakes are tantalising enough to set those taste buds alive and kicking. The famous cake and the not so famous cake, it doesn't matter as they are there to enjoy. Maccaroons speak for themselves. I had my dessert, and would make my way to the train. All this being out in the open with people who want a piece of you, can be quiet draining. Far too busy for me, the station and just sit and people watch.
The train back to Geneva took me threw some French countryside was is beautiful. But I had the normal situations on the train of the complete idiots, is this the price of fame, or is it just human being behaving as human being do. It doesn't spoil my journey, it just makes them look idiots. The lovely day in the sun, with beautiful surroundings, and a journey that has been ticked. Thank you Anncey, thank you Geneva, and thank you Switzerland.
I have started a journey of finding the French delights in sweetness. Yes, I am good at exploring for interesting tastes, and delight. Rather than the Adam and Eve situation. Rose des Neiges, and the cakes are tantalising enough to set those taste buds alive and kicking. The famous cake and the not so famous cake, it doesn't matter as they are there to enjoy. Maccaroons speak for themselves. I had my dessert, and would make my way to the train. All this being out in the open with people who want a piece of you, can be quiet draining. Far too busy for me, the station and just sit and people watch.
The train back to Geneva took me threw some French countryside was is beautiful. But I had the normal situations on the train of the complete idiots, is this the price of fame, or is it just human being behaving as human being do. It doesn't spoil my journey, it just makes them look idiots. The lovely day in the sun, with beautiful surroundings, and a journey that has been ticked. Thank you Anncey, thank you Geneva, and thank you Switzerland.
A Journey of Exploration in Life & in Food
Grand Cafe' de Lyon - Nice - France
Watching, looking, I wondered whether France believed in Angels or of the spirituality of Christmas. Searching for Angels is a quest for love. If I walk down the main street again in Nice and not find what it is that I looking for, I will return to the hotel, I said to myself.
And there it was "Grand Cafe' de Lyon, in front of me, and I do feel that it is time for a coffee and cake. Ambiance; yes, it certainly was there, chatting French community and a smile as I sat down and watched. A woman worrying about her handbag and me standing far too close, not my forte' Just checking the cake situation. Ordering my coffee and cake, and to my surprise a rather large piece of cake was presented and enjoyed. Comments can only be, Yummy! And the Angels were found in the end.
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Maritim Hotel Dusseldorf - Sushi Bar - Sushi Sho
I wanted to find out whether a restaurant or Sushi Bar could actually diversify away from the menu and give me what I wanted. It did seem to be a hard understanding of what I wanted but not necessarily what was being offered. No rice for me please, I prefer something that is tasty food and not something that my body rejects very quickly.
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This was my first time in a Suchi restaurant, looking through the menu, there wasn't too much of a choice because of the rice situation. And the waitress couldn't understand what I really wanted. So choices, were on the menu and adapt. Both starters that I had were absolutely delicious, and the pancake with the green cream, was so delicate and refined. Definitely something I would have again, but the next restaurant has to be adaptable to my needs and to not stay with the menu.
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Le Patio Restaurant & Terrasse - Nice - France
I am not too sure whether I want to let you all know about this secret restaurant that I found. The taxi from Nice airport was a journey to remember. The taxi man was pointing out places to go, restaurants to eat at. What to see. I had already been on a journey of finding my parents, grandparents and every single attachment I had to Europe, my head was certainly frazzled and my heart was trying to understand the reasons of WHY? I really couldn't understand what it is was about me being a tourist, not a tourist. I knew that I would go by my own gut instinct and not where I am being told to go. Rule one; never follow, always lead. Rule two, defining what is good for you or others, comes with a refined taste. Rule three; always go by your gut instinct in choice. So that is what I did and have always done. The choices of others gets me into trouble. Protection, never seems to be from the humans variety, but from the Universe and its strength of love and understanding, even though I walk alone, I am far from being alone.
Walking towards the old town of Nice I knew there was a restaurant that I wanted to try somewhere close. Hiding for sure. I was pointed in the right direction, and slowly reached the restaurant of my choice. It was quaint, beautiful and the ambiance was typically French. Trying to find a place to sit without the nosey security seems to be such hard work nowadays.
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So, sit and enjoy, and just relax. A glass of French wine, the bread and oil were presented. I had decided to go for the steak and I was not disappointed, it fell apart as soft, succulent meat should do. The wine fitted what I need it to, and the journey of taste continued to the dessert, pudding, sweet whatever you would like to refer you delights to. Figs roasted with Cointreau and honey, with hazelnut ice-cream. And by the time I had realised that a photo was needed it was gone, that tasty, yes, it was. The nearly empty plate shows that. Coffee and a thank you to the chefs, a good evening and a gentle and undisruptive night of calmness.
Kleve - Germany - Venga Restaurant
Kleve, was a journey to the past, and in understanding the pain that my mother had to endure at the hands of the British. I was here to re-live my childhood, and find my way. Christmas was very much around and food was certainly needed. My choice was of Truffel Tagliatelle mit Lachfilet. Wine, and water. And chatting to family both in death and alive. Food fitted, but I didn't like the stupidity of the people in the restaurant who went out of their way to tell me that they were there. Leaving was a choice, my choice. And respect is certainly a trait humans need to find.
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From Sampan Restaurant Manchester to Santorini Greece, to Sorrento Italy. Food in abundance and the views were so beautiful. Such a shame about the holiday makers but I expect that it is part of the course. Life can be really wonderful sometimes regardless of some people around that try to ruin a day.