Indonesia: From Pop-Up to Full-On Heat: Sambal Has Arrived

Sambal has brought Indonesian food front and center on the Danforth, and it’s about time. From fiery sambal dips to melt-in-your-mouth beef rendang and hand-pulled noodles, the menu is small but packed with bold flavours. Go with friends, order as much as you can, and prepare for a spicy, shareable feast. Continue reading Indonesia: From Pop-Up to Full-On Heat: Sambal Has Arrived

England: Rot Never Tasted So Good

Noble Rot continues to be one of the most charming, clever, and consistently delicious restaurants in London, with a wine list that reads like a novel and a menu that changes just enough to keep you coming back. Highlights included a pristine tuna tartare with beef-fat crisps, a dreamy comté cheese tart, and a soul-warming plate of hogget in tomato sauce with Greek-style green beans. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel smarter (and smugger) just for knowing about it, and leaves you planning your return before dessert even hits the table. Continue reading England: Rot Never Tasted So Good

Morocco: This Tastes like Marrakech 

Rayah in Cabbagetown brings Moroccan flavours and French flair together in a warm, welcoming space that feels like a hidden riad in Toronto. Generous, spice-packed dishes like couscous royal and crispy maakouda make it worth coming hungry, and the mint tea and pastries are the perfect sweet finish. With its friendly vibe and buzzing atmosphere, it’s the kind of spot you’ll want to return to again and again. Continue reading Morocco: This Tastes like Marrakech 

Laos: From Toronto to Vientiane: A Culinary Trip at Lao Lao Bar

Lao Lao Bar offers a vibrant taste of Laotian cuisine 🇱🇦 in the heart of Toronto, blending traditional Southeast Asian flavours like lemongrass, tamarind, and chilies 🌶️ with a modern twist. Standout dishes include the spicy green papaya salad 🥗, caramelized pork belly stew 🍖, and Jeow Bong pineapple fried rice 🍍, all served in a warmly decorated space that transports diners straight to Laos 🏮. While the much-anticipated Leap 🥩 never arrived, the overall experience was flavorful, fun, and definitely worth a return visit 🔁✨. Continue reading Laos: From Toronto to Vientiane: A Culinary Trip at Lao Lao Bar

Japan: When Fresh Fish Meets Hidden Gem

There’s an unassuming Japanese restaurant on the edge of the city that feels just like dining in Japan, with fresh fish, authentic dishes, and warm, attentive service. The daily-changing menu features incredible nigiri, hand rolls, and chef’s specials that make every visit feel unique. It’s the kind of hidden gem where you’ll want to trust the chef, savour every bite, and come back for more. Continue reading Japan: When Fresh Fish Meets Hidden Gem

Jamaica: Let’s Get Tropical 

Tropical Joe’s in Gerrard Square is a no-frills, takeout-only Jamaican spot that delivers bold, authentic flavours. The jerk chicken is a standout, tender, boneless, and perfectly spiced, while dishes like jerk pork, oxtail, and chickpea curry round out the compact but delicious menu. Don’t let the food court location fool you, this place is a hidden gem worth the trip. Continue reading Jamaica: Let’s Get Tropical 

United States of America: Canadian BBQ 

Beach1 Smokehouse in Wasaga Beach serves up exceptional Texas style barbecue with standout dishes like smokey , tender beef brisket and fall apart pork ribs. Though it’s a bit outside Toronto, the quality, friendly service, and relaxed beachside vibe make it worth the trip. With generous portions, made to order meats, and a personal touch from the owner, it’s a must for barbecue lovers. Continue reading United States of America: Canadian BBQ