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 

Turkey: A Turkish Delight 

Kismet Turkish Restaurant in Toronto offers a cozy space 🌿 with delicious Turkish classics like Chicken Shish Kebab, Adana Kebab, and Lahmacun Pide, plus free Turkish tea ☕ and homemade Ezme Salad 🥗. The food is fresh, flavourful, and perfect whether you want a quick wrap to go 🥙 or a leisurely meal with friends on their beautiful patio 🌞. With its welcoming atmosphere and standout dishes, Kismet is a must-visit for anyone craving authentic Turkish flavours 🇹🇷. Continue reading Turkey: A Turkish Delight 

Ireland: Introducing the Spice Bag 

The West Cork Irish Pub 🍀 brings cozy Irish charm to Queen East with hearty classics like shepherd’s pie 🥧, bangers and mash 🌭🥔, and the standout spice bag served in a paper bag 🛍️. While the atmosphere is warm and inviting—with fireplaces 🔥, darts 🎯, and friendly staff 😊—some traditional touches like Irish music 🎶 were missing. Still, it’s a solid spot for comfort food 🍽️, pints 🍻, and good company 👯‍♀️ any night of the week. Continue reading Ireland: Introducing the Spice Bag 

United States of America: The Texan Marriage of Mexico and Japan

A weekend in Austin offers more than just barbecue — fusion gems like Ramen Del Barrio 🍜🌮 mix Mexican and Japanese flavors in bold, inventive ways. Originally a humble garage project 🚗➡️🍽️, the ramen shop now draws crowds for standout dishes like the Carnitas Tonkotsu and Tako taco. With a possible move to a standalone location on the horizon 🏠✨, it’s a must-visit for adventurous food lovers looking for something unforgettable 😋🔥. Continue reading United States of America: The Texan Marriage of Mexico and Japan

United State of America: Eat the World Houston 

I arrived in Houston 🌆 expecting just tacos 🌮 and BBQ 🍖, but discovered a vibrant, diverse food paradise 🍱🍜. From juicy birria at Tacos Doña Lena 🇲🇽 to smoky Asian-fusion ribs at Blood Bros. BBQ 🔥 and spicy crawfish at Crawfish Cafe 🦞, every meal was a delicious adventure. Houston’s global flavors 🌎 impressed me deeply — though I missed Jamaican food 🇯🇲, I left full, happy, and excited to return! 😋✈️ Continue reading United State of America: Eat the World Houston 

Ethiopia: Transported to Addis Ababa 

Wazema stands out among the Ethiopian restaurants in Toronto’s Little Ethiopia, offering a more upscale ambiance with mood lighting, a prominent bar, and live music on busier nights 🎶🍹. The menu features classic Ethiopian fare centered around injera, with the Wazema Platter showcasing a mix of flavorful vegetarian and meat dishes, including the must-try Kitfo (Ethiopian beef tartare) and crowd-pleasing Tibs 🍽️🔥. While our Tuesday visit lacked the full energy of a weekend night, the delicious food and inviting atmosphere guarantee a return—next time, with entertainment in the mix! Continue reading Ethiopia: Transported to Addis Ababa 

Thailand: Back to the Islands 

Koh Lipe in Baldwin Village is a warm, welcoming Thai restaurant 🇹🇭 known for its authentic dishes rarely found elsewhere in Toronto, like Goong Moun 🍤 and Guay Tiew Khaek 🍜. With a menu that blends regional Thai flavours and street food staples 🌶️🍛, it’s a nostalgic trip for travellers ✈️ and a bold culinary adventure for newcomers. The friendly staff 😊, cozy vibe 🏠, and standout dishes like Ma Sa Man curry 🍲 and mango sticky rice 🥭 make it a must-visit for any Thai food lover. Continue reading Thailand: Back to the Islands