Winemakers often proclaim that the finest wines tell a story. From the soul of the land where grapes are nurtured to the oak barrels that cradle their essence, each bottle boasts a storied past waiting to be unravelled.Luckily, oenophiles are blessed with a plethora of wine regions that are worth planning trips around. Close to home you can journey to the vineyards of Napa Valley or the rolling hills of Willamette Valley. But farther afield, the breathtaking landscapes of Europe and South America's Winelands have captivated wine enthusiasts seeking to taste the finest vintages for decades.

Our wine-focused trips unearth the beauty behind each blend with incredible bike rides, wine tastings and spectacular scenery. From South America to Europe, wine enthusiasts will love these five luxury wine tours.

While Vienna and Budapest may be known for their stately architecture and cosmopolitan allure, their wine regions are worth a detour. Oozing with old-world charm, these oft-forgotten vineyards are a wine lover's dream.

On our <a href="https://butterfield.com/trip/scheduled/vienna-to-budapest-wine-country-biking" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">Vienna to Budapest Wine Country Biking</a> trip, we're invited to an exclusive wine tasting where we'll sample rare vintages, cycle past great lakes and eat at award-winning restaurants. Through our knowledgeable guides and local friends, we'll gain a deep understanding of the history behind Austria's famed seasonal wine taverns and the Austo-Hungarian Cold War.The incredible rolling hills, charming villages and lakeside retreats only sweeten the lot.

From deserts to snow-powdered mountain peaks, Chile has it all. It also boasts some of the finest wines in the Southern Hemisphere. With its wine roots planted during the 16th c. Spanish colonization, the Chileans have perfected flavourful, fruit-forward wines.

Our <a href="https://butterfield.com/trip/scheduled/chile-wine-country-biking" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">Chile Wine Country Biking trip</a> takes you riding past row after row of grapes, ducking into local winery tasting rooms for award-winning cabernet sauvignon and pinot noir. We'll bike alongside stunning coastal beaches, past the Andes and into the bucolic countryside, stopping to taste wine at different lush vineyards along the way.Combine this with a spectacular stay at VIK Chile, with its outdoor infinity pool, zen garden, sauna and relaxation lounge. It’s no wonder why this is the last stop on our trip.

Burgundy for us is literally home territory, with our European headquarters based in the region’s wine capital of Beaune. And when it comes to wine, it doesn’t get any better than this grande dame, known for producing the <a href="https://butterfield.com/get-inspired/best-burgundy-wines" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">world's best</a> pinot noir and chardonnay.

Thousands of miles of peaceful vineyards await on our <a href="https://butterfield.com/trip/scheduled/burgundy-wine-country-biking" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204); background-color: transparent;">Burgundy Wine Country Biking trip</a>. Between cycling past famous vineyards, we'll stop at some of the most beloved vineyards in the Côte de Nuits and the Côte Chalonnaise. We'll learn all about producing the greatest luxury wines during a workshop, wine tour and private tasting by local wine experts.

And it wouldn't be a trip to France without indulging in the region's farm-to-table cheeses, fruits and seasonal veggies. So we'll dine at châteaus, picnic amongst famous vines and appreciate why Burgundy is considered amongst the world's most popular wine destinations.

Sip and cycle your way through Spain on our <a href="https://butterfield.com/trip/scheduled/spanish-wine-country-biking" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204); background-color: transparent;">Spanish Wine Country Biking trip</a>. While exploring the Basque country and Rioja, we'll stop to sample bottles of award-winning cabernet sauvignon and tempranillo.

But this trip isn't just about the wine tours and the Michelin-starred restaurants; it's a deeper look into Spanish culture. Cycling through centuries-old villages will seemingly take us back in time, with scenes of ancient churches and cobbled laneways framing every corner.We'll ride part of the Camino de Santiago, stopping to watch the pilgrims hike by. And rest in style at a family-run wine hotel, a luxury resort and a 13th-century convent (including two nights at the otherworldly Hotel Marqués de Riscal!). Sampling crisp sauvignon blancs and riding through Spain's most spectacular sights? We'll cheers to that.

Georgia's wine traditions fuse with its identity, with a legacy dating back 8,000 years. UNESCO recognizes its unique winemaking method as a piece of "intangible cultural heritage," made in a clay jar called qvevri. With 400 grape varieties, their vintages reflect immense pride. It's an <a href="https://butterfield.com/get-inspired/things-to-know-georgia" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">incredible destination</a> for cyclists who love wine, stunning views and unique history.&nbsp;

Our <a href="https://butterfield.com/trip/scheduled/georgia-wine-country-walking" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204); background-color: transparent;">Georgia Wine Country Walking trip</a> dives into why some experts consider this to be the birthplace of wine. From the capital of Tbilisi to the vineyards of Kakheti, we'll sample fine wine and local delicacies at boutique wineries and rural homes.We'll hike through ancient villages and forests, stopping at 14th c. churches before for a traditional dinner and wine tasting. And when it's time to rest our feet, our five-star alpine accommodation with a private pool provides the perfect retreat.

5 Wine-Focused Trips to Delight Your Palate

The rolling vineyards of South America have left an undeniable mark on the global wine scene. With a winemaking heritage spanning centuries and some of the most impressive estate designs on the planet, it’s no wonder so many vineyards across Chile, Uruguay and Argentina have earned a top spot on the <a href="https://www.worldsbestvineyards.com/list/1-50" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">World’s Best Vineyards</a> list, with six vineyards in the top 10.Our wine-focused trips will immerse travellers in the beauty and history behind each bottle, offering an inside look at the grape growing process, incredible bike rides and exclusive wine tastings.Sip and sample your way through the world’s best vineyards with our top three wine-focused trips to do in South America.

Combining a world-class winery with dreamy architecture that seamlessly hugs the landscape, it’s easy to see why VIK Chile is one of our favourite stops on our Chile Wine Country Biking trip. Just a two-hour drive from Santiago, it's impossible to miss the property’s bronze-titanium roof rising high amidst vineyards, offering a striking contrast against the majestic Andes mountains.

Chile Wine Country Biking

The Frank Gehry-designed hotel not only provides a touch of surrealism to the vineyards but has also been designed to minimize its impact on the landscape. The unique charm extends to each of its 22 suites, which have been imagined by an individual artist. Whether stepping into an azulejos-themed suite or a French-inspired suite reminiscent of the 15th century, it’s a delightful surprise to discover the theme that awaits in your room.&nbsp;The region’s wine-growing geography is similar to California, enjoying the moderating effects of the Pacific Ocean, so expect fruit-forward, bold reds and aromatic whites. After sampling premium wines and exploring the estate’s vineyards by bike, on foot or on horseback, travellers can unwind at the on-site Wine Spa, which uses products like grapeseed oil, grape skins, and of course, wine to help relax and rejuvenate.

Founded in 1987 by four passionate entrepreneurs, each steeped in extensive wine expertise, Viña Montes was born out of a shared passion to elevate the quality of Chilean wines. Today, Montes bottles are available in over 100 countries, earning global recognition for their quality and highlighting the potential of Chilean wine production worldwide.The winery is nestled in Chile's Colchagua Valley and has been designed under feng shui principles and features gravitational technology, ensuring a harmonious atmosphere that influences every stage of the winemaking process.

MONTES

Nestled in Chile's Colchagua Valley, Viu Manent was founded in 1935 by the Catalonian Viu family, who initially immigrated to Chile and opened Bodegas Viu in Santiago de Chile. In 1995, the family-owned winery officially opened its doors and has been a key player in Chile's wine tourism scene ever since. You can sleep among the vines at the winery's on-site accommodations, Vibo Wine Lodge, which we love to include on our Chile Wine Country Biking trip.

Viu Manent

Just a short drive from Jose Ignacio, Bodega Garzón has been a force to be reckoned with in Uruguay's wine scene since its opening in 2016, now celebrated as one of the region's top wineries.&nbsp;The estate's surroundings are formed from a unique geology known as the Crystalline Basement, which gave origin to the world’s oldest granite soils. These prime growing conditions, combined with its position near the Uruguayan Atlantic and the hand-harvested methods, all create the exceptional wines the estate is known for. You can sample these wines in the vineyards or paired with local cuisine at their on-site restaurant, which uses traditional open-fire cooking techniques.&nbsp;

Uruguay Multi-Active

We love visiting Bodega Garzon on our Uruguay Biking trip, where we indulge in lunch amidst the vineyards and take a tour of the modern bodega, deepening our understanding of the region’s winemaking process.

Argentina seized the spotlight on the World’s Best Vineyards list, with Catena Zapata in Mendoza claiming first place, and it's easy to see why. Established in 1902, the family-run winery boasts a unique pyramid-shaped design inspired by Mayan temples and has gained acclaim for its groundbreaking contributions to redefining Malbec. Sitting at an elevation of nearly 5,000 ft, the estate’s Adrianna Vineyard has earned the title of the Grand Cru of South America. The vineyards are also renowned for producing wines that emphasize single-terroir and high-altitude blends.

Argentina Bespoke

Whether you're cycling past Chilean vineyards or sampling local Tannant in Uruguay, these wine-focused trips promise an unforgettable journey into the heart of South American viticulture.

Top Three Wine-Focused Trips to do in South America

From the time-honoured classics to craft breweries pushing the boundaries of flavour, Vietnamese beer culture has been steadily evolving over the past 150 years, resulting in the diverse array of choices we enjoy today.We caught up with longtime B&amp;R Guide, An Do Truong, as he shares insights and recommendations on Vietnamese beer culture.

Beer was first introduced to <a href="https://butterfield.com/destination/asia/vietnam" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Vietnam</a> in the late 19th century, through French businessmen Victor Larue and Alfred Hommel, who built the first breweries in Gia Dinh and Ha Noi. Beer gained popularity among French soldiers and some Vietnamese locals with close connections to the community in the 1930s. Due to its high cost, the majority of the population, primarily rice farmers, preferred rice wine.

Amid the mid-20th-century conflicts, both Larue and Hommel breweries closed until the 1990s, when Vietnam's economy recovered. Under government ownership, they became Saigon Beer Company and Hanoi Beer Company.&nbsp;Beer played a crucial role in refreshing urban residents and workers in the tropical heat in the late 90s. Today, beer is integral to Vietnamese culture, with "beer o'clock" at 5 pm marking the time when beer gardens, bars and restaurants are filled with guests enjoying this ubiquitous beverage.

The term "craft beer" made its debut in Vietnam around 2014. Initially, it left locals puzzled, as the term "craft" in Vietnamese referred to handmade souvenirs, like bamboo crafts. As the craft beer movement gained momentum in Western countries, expats played a role in spreading the word.Initially, most locals didn't appreciate craft beer due to its perceived bitterness, thickness, bold flavours and higher cost compared to lager beer.In the years following, Ho Chi Minh City witnessed the gradual rise of the craft beer scene. Today, craft beers have become a popular choice among Ho Chi Minh City locals, often enjoyed with Vietnamese snacks.

The Saigonese lager "333" beer stands as the most popular in Vietnam and is the leading Vietnamese beer brand worldwide. Other local brands include Saigon, Hanoi, BGI (Can Tho city), Huda (Hue city), Larue (Hoi An town), and Qui Nhon (from the city of Qui Nhon).

Most craft breweries are still located in my home city, Saigon:&nbsp;<a href="https://pasteurstreet.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">Pasteur Street</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://heartofdarknessbrewery.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">Heart of Darkness</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://eastwestbrewing.vn/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">East West Brewing</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/fuzzylogicbrewing/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">Fuzzy Logic</a>, to name a few. As a beer-lover, I am lucky to live here! Hanoi and Danang also have a few (notably,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/TurtleLakeBrewingCompany/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">Turtle Lake Brewing</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/furbrew/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">Furbrew</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.7bridges.vn/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">7 Bridges</a>).&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;However, most of these breweries have brewpubs in other cities and distribute their stock throughout the country, so you can usually find them!

SaigonI like Heart Of Darkness the most because they have the best IPA in Vietnam. If I only have $5 in my pocket, I'll cycle straight to their taproom, sip a beer slowly, and then cruise home through the scenic neighbourhoods of Saigon.Mekong Delta After a morning on the bike, a nice bottle of BGI completes a lunch of local specialties aboard a boat on the canals of the Delta.Quy NhonWhen guiding our <a href="https://butterfield.com/trip/scheduled/vietnam-biking-expedition" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Vietnam Biking Expedition</a>, I love visiting the patio bar overlooking the secluded cove at Zannier Bai San Ho, with the moon reflecting off the sea, is a fantastic vantage point where you can enjoy the local brew or the hotel’s selection of craft beers.Hoi AnI always go to Hill Station for a nice Jasmine IPA. The nearby An Bang beach is a great place to relax with some live music and a bottle of Seven Bridges.&nbsp;HanoiFor delicious beers in an amazing atmosphere, head to the Pasteur Street taproom on Ấu Triệu, a winding street just behind the historic St. Joseph’s Cathedral.Northern VietnamAfter hiking through jungles and villages on our <a href="https://butterfield.com/trip/scheduled/northern-vietnam-walking" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Northern Vietnam Walking</a> trip, I like to dangle my feet in the infinity pool at Avana Retreat, looking across the intricate rice terraces under a glorious sunset, with a tall cold one in my hand!

An Insider's Guide to Vietnamese Beer

Shivani&nbsp;Vora is a lifestyle journalist based in New York City. She has more than 15 years of experience as a writer and is a regular contributor to several prolific publications including CNN, the New York Times, Departures, Cultured and Architectural Digest.The Dolomite mountains in northern Italy are an outdoor playground. A destination practically designed for adventurers attracted to biking and <a href="https://butterfield.com/get-inspired/the-most-incredible-hikes-in-the-italian-dolomites" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">hiking</a> amid piercing blue lakes, herds of cows, fields blanketed in wildflowers, jagged peaks and so much more.&nbsp;

One of the highlights of an excursion in the <a href="https://butterfield.com/destination/europe/italy/dolomites" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Dolomites</a> is lunch at a rifugio (mountain hut). Some offer overnight accommodations for hikers, but all offer incredible meals that refuel you physically and mentally. My guide in the Dolomites, Claudia, was born and brought up in the area. She says that visiting a rifugio is a beloved local tradition.“We love to head to a rifugio on our time off for the exceptional food and to connect with family and friends,” she says.&nbsp;Run by families, these restaurants are the epitome of farm-to-table, local and sustainable—the big buzzwords when it comes to today’s food trends. Meat is sourced from animals raised in the surrounding valleys, cheese is produced on nearby farms and produce is all grown within the vicinity.&nbsp;

Do like the locals and savour a long, leisurely meal complete with fantastic wine—a glass or two or maybe even a bottle. Rifugios may be simple, but Claudia says their wine lists are impressive and akin to ones that you would find at a Michelin-starred restaurant.&nbsp;The Dolomites are home to at least a few hundred rifugios, but a few truly stand out and have a dedicated clientele for their cuisine and hospitality. I compiled my recommendations for must-hit rifugios below with Claudia’s help. They’re among her favourites, and I’ve been lucky enough too try a few too.&nbsp;

Easy to reach by a 30-minute walk or quick bike ride, Rauchhutte on the Alpe di Siusi is famous for its pappardelle with venison ragú. Don’t miss the buchteln, a sweet cake with vanilla sauce and jam. The wine menu offers many selections by the glass.&nbsp;

Rauchhütte

Set on the hidden valley from Lagazuoi in Alta Badia, the more than half-century-old Scotoni features a huge indoor barbecue, so anything grilled is a great bet. I’m a fan of the Scotoni grilled platter, a combination of assorted meats, vegetables and polenta. The hut also sources its crisp water from an adjacent spring and has a wine list of over 400 labels.&nbsp;

Scotoni Hut 

Located in Alta Pusteria on Monte Baranci, Jora is more refined compared to other rifugios and counts Markus Holzer as its executive chef who has worked at some of the top restaurants in the region. The bacon dumplings in beef stock are a house hit, and the pasta is killer. If you’re in the mood to splurge, try the four-course pasta tasting menu.

Jora Mountain Dining

On the Alpe di Siusi, this rifugio is actually a farm that has been owned by the same family for more than 500 years. The menu relies heavily on ingredients that are grown or produced directly onsite. Options are diverse: the soup made of hay, herbs and flowers has a cult following and is served in a bread crock, but the cheeses and shredded sweet pancakes are also mainstays.&nbsp;

Gostner Schwaige

Reachable from the town of Corvara and Campolongo Pass, Crep de Munt serves typical stick-to-your-ribs Ladin dishes: think potato fritters, fried ravioli, deer and even deer roe. Try the house-made elder juice, and finish off your feast with the house-made ice-creams and tiramisu.

Ütia Crep de Munt 

Feeling inspired to taste your way through the Dolomites? Get in touch with Experience Designer Georgia Yuill to <a href="https://butterfield.com/start-planning" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">start planning</a>.B&amp;R Experience Designer Georgia Yuill has been named a Top Travel Specialist 2022 for Italy by Condé Nast Traveler.

5 Best Rifugios in the Dolomites

Eat &amp; Drink

Resto

Travel Tips

beer

craft beer

Dublin

Ireland

The Best Pubs in Dublin

Cuisine

Cuisine 101

Italy

Tuscany

Recipes

Recipes from the Road

The Origin of the Negroni: Florence's Favourite Cocktail

Florence

Food and Travel

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<img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-49085 size-medium alignright" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/melaluca-1-480x300.png" alt="Cafe Melaluca in Florence" width="480" height="300" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/melaluca-1-480x300.png 480w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/melaluca-1-250x156.png 250w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/melaluca-1-768x480.png 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/melaluca-1.png 960w" sizes="(max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px" />
<h2><a href="https://www.instagram.com/melaleuca.florence/?hl=en" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Melaleuca</a></h2>
An Aussie-Italian couple runs the show at this charming bistro and bakery popular with Florence’s ex-pat community. Located along the Arno river not far from Santa Croce, here you will enjoy fish tacos, homemade pulled pork carnitas, melt in your mouth cinnamon buns and much more.
<h2><a href="https://nugolo.business.site/?copy" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Nugolo</a></h2>
Fairly new on the local restaurant scene, Nugolo is run by a young, passionate team of Florentines aiming to highlight the high-quality ingredients featured on their menu (including over 200 varieties of tomatoes grown in the hills above Florence). The restaurant has a fresh feel to it, almost like sitting inside a garden. Grab a table in front of the open kitchen set inside a greenhouse.
<img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-49079 size-medium alignright" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/brac-1-480x300.png" alt="Brac food in florence" width="480" height="300" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/brac-1-480x300.png 480w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/brac-1-250x156.png 250w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/brac-1-768x480.png 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/brac-1.png 960w" sizes="(max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px" />
<h2><a href="https://www.libreriabrac.net/asporto/menu/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Brac</a></h2>
Don’t miss the small, unassuming door to Libreria Brac because this bistro is well worth a visit. This restaurant, a mix between cafe and library, features a solely vegetarian menu with plenty of vegan options. Once inside, you’ll find a cozy outdoor patio tucked in a sunny courtyard. Seating here is limited so reservations are recommended.
<h2><a href="https://www.cibreo.com/en/cibreo-cafe/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Cibrèo Caffè</a></h2>
Open from morning till night, this cafe-sized offshoot of the Florentine institution of the same name has some of the same great food in a more casual atmosphere and at a better price. Perfect for breakfast, coffee, happy hour or a light lunch or dinner.
<h2><a href="https://www.casatrattoria.com/en/ristorante-trattoria-angiolino-2/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Ristorante Angiolino</a></h2>
Located in the “<a href="https://www.butterfield.com/get-inspired/exploring-florences-oltrarno-neighbourhood" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Oltrarno</a>”, a few steps away from Santo Spirito Church, Trattoria Angiolino is a very good compromise between locals and tourists. Here you’ll enjoy typical Tuscan cuisine including the bistecca alla Fiorentina cooked on an open fire. The restaurant&#8217;s atmosphere is simple and characteristic, idyllic of old Florentine style.
<h2><a href="http://www.osteriadigiovanni.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" class="size-medium wp-image-49084 alignright" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/Giovani-1-480x300.png" alt="steak at giovani in florence" width="480" height="300" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/Giovani-1-480x300.png 480w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/Giovani-1-250x156.png 250w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/Giovani-1-768x480.png 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/Giovani-1.png 960w" sizes="(max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px" />L’Osteria di Giovanni </a></h2>
Not far from Via dei Tornabuoni, Florence’s designer shopping street, you’ll find this elegant Florentine osteria boasting impeccable service, traditional Tuscan dishes with a modern flair and a rich wine list featuring bottles from all over Italy. They butcher and smoke their own meat, which is stored in the cellars below the restaurant, and the pasta and desserts are to-die-for.
Feeling inspired to taste your way through to Florence? <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/start-planning/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Get in touch with Courtney</a> to see how she can craft your perfect culinary adventure.

The 10 Best Restaurants in Florence

Dolomites

Condé Nast Top Travel Specialist 2020 for the Dolomites

The Hugo: A Refreshing Cocktail from the Dolomites

Experts + Insiders

The Slow Road

A Taste of Peru at Home: Mushroom Ceviche

Latin America

Argentina

A Taste of South America at Home: Argentinian Beef Empanadas

<h3><a href="https://www.facebook.com/nazcamongolia/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Nazca</a></h3>
This Peruvian restaurant offers daily set menus of seafood and meat dishes in a contemporary atmosphere. They also know how to make a fantastic cocktail! It&#8217;s conveniently located near Sukhbaatar Square and the Shangri-La center.
Find the address <a href="https://goo.gl/maps/855utLmiiATkQNVH7" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>.
<figure id="attachment_46645" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-46645" style="width: 380px" class="wp-caption alignright"><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-46645 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/Nazca-1.jpg" alt="Where to Eat Ulaanbaatar" width="380" height="277" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-46645" class="wp-caption-text">Dish at Nazca</figcaption></figure>
<h3><a href="http://veranda.mn/en/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Silk Road and Veranda </a></h3>
These two stylish restaurants share the same location. Each offers a delicious array of Mediterranean and other cuisines. After dinner, you can head to the Fat Cat Jazz Club, which is also located in the same building.
Find the addresses <a href="https://goo.gl/maps/4xuGQ6gUTpWeCrxr9" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>.
<h3><a href="https://www.facebook.com/milliesespresso/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Millie’s Espresso</a></h3>
Millie&#8217;s Espresso was founded by two Cubans who came to Ulaanbaatar during the Soviet era, learned to manage in the cold winter, and decided to never leave. If you’re in the mood for a casual, delicious breakfast or lunch, this comfortable diner is for you. You’ll find it just beside the Choijin Temple Museum.
Find the address <a href="https://goo.gl/maps/k7HmDypPuLEnpuW3A" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>.

<h3><a href="https://www.facebook.com/FromagerieMACU" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Fromagerie MACU (Mongolian Artisanal Cheesemakers’ Union)</a></h3>
<figure id="attachment_46642" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-46642" style="width: 380px" class="wp-caption alignright"><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-46642 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/FromagerieMACU-1.jpg" alt="Where to Eat Ulaanbaatar" width="380" height="262" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-46642" class="wp-caption-text">Fromagerie MACU</figcaption></figure>
Fromagerie MACU grew out of what was initially a dilemma. During the summer, Mongolian cows, yaks, goats, sheep, and camels naturally produce billions of litres of milk, which is more than the herders can sell. This gave way to the question: what can we do with this milk?
MACU’s answer: build cheese plants across <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/2019/10/24/chris-litt-on-mongolia-and-the-desire-to-disconnect/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Mongolia</a> in partnership with local herders and produce world-class cheese. In doing so, they foster sustainable agricultural practices that preserve the grasslands and conserve the genetics of ancient breeds. At the same time, the herders receive additional income and a hub for other community initiatives.
Find the address <a href="https://g.page/fromagerie-macu?share" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>.
<h3><a href="https://www.facebook.com/Ikh-Mongol-Restaurant-108530596222219/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Ikh Mongol</a></h3>
A real local&#8217;s haunt with an outdoor beer garden and the odd live music set, find Ikh Mongol a short walk south of the State Department Store, and next to the Mongolian National Circus building.
Head here for a casual evening, paired with a menu of Mongolian specialties, hearty pub food, and beer from the Hops and Rocks craft brewery next door. TV screens broadcasting local sports matches are sure to keep you entertained during your meal. (Mongolian wrestling, anyone?)
<figure id="attachment_46648" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-46648" style="width: 380px" class="wp-caption alignright"><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-46648 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/Ikh-Mongol-1.jpg" alt="Where to Eat Ulaanbaatar" width="380" height="285" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-46648" class="wp-caption-text">Ikh Mongol</figcaption></figure>
Find the address <a href="https://goo.gl/maps/3NTVfQ21nSi6wYjQ9" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>.
<h3><a href="https://www.facebook.com/modernnomads.mn/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Modern Nomads</a></h3>
This small local chain is well-loved by Mongolians and expats alike. They make a long list of traditional dishes served in a laid-back environment. There is a location just off of Sukhbaatar Square in the heart of Ulaanbaatar.
Find the address <a href="https://goo.gl/maps/9GFuCg3cxuy2YGTz8" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>.

<h3><a href="https://www.facebook.com/LunaBlancaRestaurant" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Luna Blanca Vegetarian Restaurant</a></h3>
For a culinary culture that historically consisted of mostly meat and dairy, Mongolia has come a long way. Nowhere is this more evident than at Luna Blanca, the best vegetarian and vegan option in the city. This spot is perfect for before or after a visit to the Zanabazar Fine Arts Museum, which is located just across the street.
Find the address <a href="https://goo.gl/maps/o8BZdFxz7HWMBZhx8" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>.
<figure id="attachment_46646" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-46646" style="width: 380px" class="wp-caption alignright"><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-46646" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/Ikigai-1.jpg" alt="" width="380" height="253" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-46646" class="wp-caption-text">Ikigai</figcaption></figure>
<h3><a href="http://ikigai.mn/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Ikigai</a></h3>
For a change of cuisine and scenery, venture to the fifth floor of the Shangri-La Residences (right beside the Shangri-La hotel) and enjoy Japanese specialties with cocktails while looking south over Ulaanbaatar, towards Boghd Khaan Mountain.
Find the address <a href="https://goo.gl/maps/DKSwnE7edCRCkDk69" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>.

Where to eat in Ulaanbaatar (2020)

Culture &amp; Lifestyle

Vines &amp; Wines

Wine

Winery

Around The World

<h2><a href="https://ducalwines.com/en/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Ducal</a> &#8211; Slovenia</h2>
Just across the border from Austria, in Slovenia, Ducal is producing exceptional natural wine according to the thousand-year-old Georgian method using qvevries. In clay amphoras dug deep into the soil, the grape ferments in to wine along with the skins and everything else the berries hold. After eight months the wine is transported to large wooden casks where they age for the next two to three years before bottling.
<img loading="lazy" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-46545" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Ducal_720x460-470x300.jpg" alt="" width="470" height="300" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Ducal_720x460-470x300.jpg 470w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Ducal_720x460.jpg 720w" sizes="(max-width: 470px) 100vw, 470px" />
The owner, Mitja Lo Duca, is a true character, obsessively working the vineyards with his son Tim. Imbued with a mountaineer&#8217;s perseverance (he once advanced as a promising alpinist in the former state of Yugoslavia), Mitja now funnels that energy into his award-winning business. As with Gut Oggau’s wines, Ducal&#8217;s wines are also served at NOMA in Copenhagen.
<img loading="lazy" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-46521" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/LePod_400x300-1-400x300.jpg" alt="" width="400" height="300" />
<h2><a href="https://www.podereleripi.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Podere Le Ripi</a> &#8211; Italy</h2>
Owned by Franceso Illy (yes, of the coffee fame) this innovative winery is truly special and a personal project of Franceso’s that’s become a stunning experiment in biodynamic viticulture.
Planted at an unheard-of density, the vineyards have incredibly deep roots and produce a dramatic amount of fruit.
Meanwhile, the cellar is its own feat of structural beauty: referred to as the ‘wine cathedral,’ it was constructed using ancient techniques and, unconventionally, made great strides to follow strict spatial ratios; its circular form essentially descends into the earth. For Franceso, the integrity of the wine is paramount and informed the decision to forsake traditional construction methods in favour of bio-architecture advances.
<img loading="lazy" class="size-medium wp-image-46519 aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Podere-Le-Ripi_720x300-480x200.jpg" alt="" width="480" height="200" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Podere-Le-Ripi_720x300-480x200.jpg 480w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Podere-Le-Ripi_720x300.jpg 720w" sizes="(max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px" />
Nearby, a wonderful vegetable garden is often host to garden tours with families or simple outdoor dinners with a Tuscan nonnna or Michelin-starred chef.

<h2><a href="http://bellawines.ca/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Bella Wines</a> &#8211; British Columbia</h2>
Bella is a spirited winery in the Okanagan that&#8217;s producing some of the most exciting sparkling wines and capturing the natural essence of British Columbia&#8217;s fruit, all set within a postage stamp of acreage.
Wine couple, Jay Drysdale &amp; Wendy Rose, are transparent in their pursuit to &#8220;make expressive wine that truly reflects the land where it is grown and the conditions under which it is made, free from chemicals and excessive intervention.&#8221;
Along that vein, you&#8217;ll find animals from their farmhouse foraging between the vines, and a wholehearted approach to get back to basics using ancestrale methods. Their three styles of sparkling wine are an absolute treat and make Bella the only winery in BC producing sparkling exclusively.

What We're Drinking: Natural Wines of the World

Insider's Guides

Canada

Quebec

North America

<h3><a href="https://www.paillard.ca/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Café-Boulangerie Paillard</a></h3>
Hands down—the best croissants in town! Their fresh-baked bread and pastries, gourmet pizza and Italian-imported gelati impress, too. 
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-44195 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/paillard_001_720x460.jpg" alt="best places to eat in Quebec city" width="752" height="533" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/paillard_001_720x460.jpg 752w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/paillard_001_720x460-423x300.jpg 423w" sizes="(max-width: 752px) 100vw, 752px" />
Paillard has four locations within Quebec City, including their flagship shop centrally located in the Old Town.
<hr />
<h3><a href="http://restaurantinitiale.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Initiale </a></h3>
This Relais &amp; Châteaux establishment serves French haute cuisine in an understated—yet sophisticated—dining room. 
A three-course carte fuses meat and fish sourced from Quebec with the flavours of France, while a tasting menu allows you to sample a little bit of all of the chef’s top offerings.
<hr />
<h3><a href="http://battuto.ca/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Battuto</a></h3>
Tuck into seasonally inspired antipasti, hearty homemade pasta and all-around sublimely executed Italian food at Battuto. 
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-42702 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/battuto_001.jpg" alt="battuto, best places to eat in Quebec city" width="752" height="533" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/battuto_001.jpg 752w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/battuto_001-423x300.jpg 423w" sizes="(max-width: 752px) 100vw, 752px" />
Seating is limited in this cozy, minimalist space, so book your table well in advance.
<hr />
<h3><a href="http://cantookcafe.com/en/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Cantook Micro Torrefaction </a></h3>
For your morning java or a midday pick-me-up, head to Cantook: an artisanal coffee shop that roasts all their beans in-house. 
Sip your brew in their cozy, wooden café—inspired by Canadian forests—or revel in the happenings of Rue Saint-Jean while seated in a chair out front.
<hr />
<h3><a href="https://piedbleu.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Le Pied Bleu</a></h3>
Le Pied Bleu is your classic bouchon, a type of bistro hailing from Lyon, France, whose focus is on rich meats and charcuterie.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-42715 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/PiedBleu_002_720x460.jpg" alt="Pied Bleu, best places to eat in Quebec city" width="752" height="533" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/PiedBleu_002_720x460.jpg 752w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/PiedBleu_002_720x460-423x300.jpg 423w" sizes="(max-width: 752px) 100vw, 752px" />
Don’t miss the house-made boudin noir (black pudding), a 5-time medalist at the elite Foire au boudin (Black Pudding Festival) that’s held annually in Normandy, France.
<hr />
<h3><a href="http://www.lemoineechanson.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Le Moine Échanson</a></h3>
At this bar au vin, natural wine is paired with creative tapas in an intimate setting with exceptional hosting. 
Knowledgeable servers guide you through their curated list of wine options—by the bottle or by the glass—and a menu that’s always on rotation depending on what’s in season.
<hr />
<h3><a href="http://www.honoizakaya.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Hona Izakaya </a></h3>
For a break from French-Canadian dishes, visit this Japanese haunt where you can share plates of sushi, yakitori and sip on sake in a hip atmosphere with unstained wood benches, concrete walls and a touch of greenery. 
<hr />
<h3><a href="http://laplanquerestaurant.com/en/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">La Planque</a></h3>
<img loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-42725 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/laplanque_001.jpg" alt="best places to eat in Quebec city" width="378" height="240" />La Planque evokes the ambiance of a cozy, wood log cabin mixed with a rustic-chic gastropub. 
Their innovative takes on Canadian fare sees local meats like guinea fowl and duck be taken up a notch with crafty foams and purees. 
Ask for a seat at the bar so you can watch the chefs in action in the open kitchen. 
<hr />
<h3><a href="https://m.facebook.com/Kraken-Cru-841559542595409/?locale2=fr_CA" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Kraken Cru</a></h3>
Spend your night tasting seafood and sipping on fabulous cocktails at this pirate-like tavern that specializes in a variety (up to 10!) of fresh oysters. 
With only about 20 seats and no reservations, make sure to show up early—I promise it’s worth the wait!

The 13 Best Places to Eat in Quebec City

Auckland

new zealand

Asia-Pacific

New Zealand

<h3><a href="https://www.imacuisine.co.nz/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Ima Cuisine</a></h3>
<img loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-42874 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Ima-cuisine_002_378x240.jpg" alt="best restaurants in Auckland" width="378" height="240" />Everything on Ima Cuisine’s Mediterranean menu is home-made from scratch: from their breakfast selection right up to dinner. 
Be sure not to miss their weekend brunch that sees specialties such as the Malawach: a Yemenite dish that consists of a puff pastry pancake, free-range eggs, grated tomato, creme fraiche and green chilli sauce. 
For dinner, opt for a mezze of small plates and salads or choose from the market catch of the day, Lebanese lamb shoulder, fried halloumi and more equally enticing options. 
<hr />
<h3><a href="https://www.amano.nz/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Amano</a></h3>
Dine on fantastic seafood and Kiwi fare at Amano, a sleek spot housed in an old warehouse with exposed beam ceilings and concrete walls. Take in the waterfront view while you feast on regional catches like Te Matuku Bay Pacific oysters or Chargrilled kahawai.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-44148 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/Amano_003-1.jpg" alt="best restaurants in Auckland" width="752" height="533" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/Amano_003-1.jpg 752w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/Amano_003-1-423x300.jpg 423w" sizes="(max-width: 752px) 100vw, 752px" />
Vegetarians will drool over their Italian dishes or their selection of anything-but-boring veggie plates. Amano also bears an onsite bakery with French croissants to nosh for breakfast or a slice of pizza for a quick lunch. 
<hr />
<h3><a href="http://www.thefrenchcafe.co.nz/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The French Café</a></h3>
This is high-end dining at its best, and it’s not just me who thinks so; this is one of Auckland’s most award-winning restaurants and was recently named by TripAdvisor as one of the ten best restaurants in the world. 
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-42882 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/French-cafe_002.jpg" alt="best restaurants in Auckland" width="752" height="460" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/French-cafe_002.jpg 752w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/French-cafe_002-480x294.jpg 480w" sizes="(max-width: 752px) 100vw, 752px" />
The French Café take a holistic approach when it comes to offering an unforgettable experience, focusing not only on top-notch food but also impeccable service and an inviting atmosphere.
<hr />
<h3><a href="https://www.skycityauckland.co.nz/restaurants/masu/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">MASU</a></h3>
Drop by MASU for Japanese food cooked robata-style: local fish and meat perfectly flamed over a charcoal grill. 
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-42880 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Masu_006_752x460.jpg" alt="best restaurants in Auckland" width="752" height="533" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Masu_006_752x460.jpg 752w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Masu_006_752x460-423x300.jpg 423w" sizes="(max-width: 752px) 100vw, 752px" />
A buzzing yet casual atmosphere, complemented by a refined yet understated decor, allows you to relish in the mouth-watering flavours cooked up by Chef Nic Watt (who at one time worked at the Park Hyatt Tokyo’s famous New York Grill) and his team. 
<hr />
<h3><a href="http://www.eatatdepot.co.nz/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Depot</a></h3>
<img loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-42878 size-medium" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Depot_002_cropped_378x572-220x300.jpg" alt="best restaurants in Auckland" width="220" height="300" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Depot_002_cropped_378x572-220x300.jpg 220w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Depot_002_cropped_378x572.jpg 378w" sizes="(max-width: 220px) 100vw, 220px" />Down the road from Masu is Depot: a laidback eatery with a focus on New Zealand caught oysters. Slurp back salty mollusks or tuck into a plate of their famous ‘Skirt steak’ in a hip and cozy setting. 
Note that they don’t take reservations here, but their tables tend to turn over quickly. You can also pop by for a bite in the morning and indulge in warm beignets and a Havana coffee.

The 8 Best Restaurants in Auckland

wellington

<h2 style="text-align: center;">Dining</h2>
<h3><a href="http://www.wbcrestaurant.co.nz/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">WBC</a></h3>
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-44120 alignright" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/wbc_002.jpg" alt="best restaurants in wellington" width="378" height="252" />Fresh plates of seafood and contemporary Kiwi fare fill the menu at WBC. 
Established in 2013, WBC (which stands for Wholesale Boot Company) is housed in a former boot factory from the 1920s. 
A mix of tables and chairs as well as banquette seating combine cozy and chic in a laid-back atmosphere.
<hr />
<h3><a href="http://www.ortega.co.nz/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Ortega Fish Shack</a></h3>
Check out this local’s haunt for creative seafood dishes like Kingfish ceviche with avocado and Vietnamese mint, and Crayfish risotto with Kina butter and foraged sea vegetables. 
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-44122 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/ortega_001_752x460.jpg" alt="best restaurants in wellington" width="752" height="460" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/ortega_001_752x460.jpg 752w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/ortega_001_752x460-480x294.jpg 480w" sizes="(max-width: 752px) 100vw, 752px" />
Egyptian floor tiles paired with an ocean motif and vintage decor make for a hip and intimate setting with a Mediterranean-style vibe.
<hr />
<h3><a href="http://boulcottstreetbistro.co.nz/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Boulcott St Bistro</a></h3>
Set in a white Victorian-style house, Boulcott St Bistro and Winebar combines classic bistro meals with a contemporary twist. Choose from an à la carte or a set menu that includes classic cuts of beef and daily market catches. 
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-42808 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/boulcott_001_752x460.jpg" alt="" width="752" height="460" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/boulcott_001_752x460.jpg 752w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/boulcott_001_752x460-480x294.jpg 480w" sizes="(max-width: 752px) 100vw, 752px" />
Complement your choice with a local beer or a <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/2015/04/15/the-10-best-new-zealand-wines/">Marlborough Sauv Blanc </a>from an impressive drink list. Chef Rex Morgan and his team are happy to accommodate any special requests or dietary requirements.
<hr />
<h3><a href="http://www.white-bait.nz/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Whitebait</a></h3>
For prime New Zealand produce and seafood, make a reservation at Whitebait. 
Their house fishmonger carefully selects and filets every piece of fish and ensures to only offer what’s in season.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-44127 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/Waterfront.jpg" alt="best restaurants in wellington" width="752" height="480" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/Waterfront.jpg 752w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/Waterfront-470x300.jpg 470w" sizes="(max-width: 752px) 100vw, 752px" />
They’re so focused on local, that you might even find the chefs foraging for mushrooms on Mount Victoria or skimming for seaweed on the beach! Ingredients are cooked over a charcoal-fired oven, allowing their flavours to shine through. 
The delightful simplicity extends to a neutral decor and views over the Wellington waterfront. 
<hr />
<h3><a href="http://www.loganbrown.co.nz/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Logan Brown</a></h3>
If fine dining is what you’re after, be sure to visit Logan Brown. 
With a deep passion for the country’s environmental state, their menu uses only sustainable ingredients and strictly avoids seafood from fishing dredges or at risk species (meaning you won’t find any bluefin tuna here).
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-44128 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/logan-brown-vwoap-light-trails.jpg" alt="best restaurants in wellington" width="752" height="533" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/logan-brown-vwoap-light-trails.jpg 752w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/logan-brown-vwoap-light-trails-423x300.jpg 423w" sizes="(max-width: 752px) 100vw, 752px" />
Serving both lunch and dinner, they offer an early seating for the pre-theatre crowd as well as a 5-course Chef’s tasting menu.

The 5 Best Restaurants in Wellington

See + Do

Norway

Oslo

Europe

<h3><a href="http://lebenjamin.no/en" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Le Benjamin</a></h3>
Sleek and hip, this casual bar and bistro is the result of the owners’ many trips to France, a country they hold close to their hearts. 
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-43078 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/le-benjamin_001_752x252.jpg" alt="best restaurants in Oslo" width="752" height="533" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/le-benjamin_001_752x252.jpg 752w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/le-benjamin_001_752x252-423x300.jpg 423w" sizes="(max-width: 752px) 100vw, 752px" />
Indulge in French cheeses and wine &#8211; by the bottle or by the glass &#8211; and homemade meals made from scratch from a three-course menu.  
<hr />
<h3><a href="http://www.arakataka.no/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Arakataka</a></h3>
For Nordic cuisine, head to Arakataka. This modern bistro is a favourite spot for concertgoers given its prime location across from Oslo’s Rockefeller Music Hall. 
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-43082 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/arakataka_001_752x537.jpg" alt="best restaurants in Oslo" width="752" height="537" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/arakataka_001_752x537.jpg 752w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/arakataka_001_752x537-420x300.jpg 420w" sizes="(max-width: 752px) 100vw, 752px" />
Its menu consists of small plates many of which include catches from the frosty Norwegian shores such as King Crab, langoustine, and mackerel.
<hr />
<h3><a href="http://hanami.no/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Hanami</a></h3>
Enjoy Japanese robatayaki, Izakaya and a sushi bar in the chic and modern atmosphere of Hanami. 
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-43085 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/hanami_004_752x523.jpg" alt="best restaurants in Oslo" width="752" height="523" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/hanami_004_752x523.jpg 752w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/hanami_004_752x523-431x300.jpg 431w" sizes="(max-width: 752px) 100vw, 752px" />
Their beautifully presented plates come paired with an equally stunning waterfront view.
<hr />
<h3><a href="https://maaemo.no/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Maaemo</a></h3>
Bearing an honourable 3-star Michelin badge, all the ingredients at Maaemo are entirely organic and natural, featuring a variety of seafood, vegetables and herbs from exclusively Norwegian producers. 
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-43087 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Maaemo_FB_001_752x501.jpg" alt="best restaurants in Oslo" width="752" height="501" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Maaemo_FB_001_752x501.jpg 752w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Maaemo_FB_001_752x501-450x300.jpg 450w" sizes="(max-width: 752px) 100vw, 752px" />
Its minimalist setting allows you to place all the attention on the dishes crafted in their innovative kitchen that encourages employees to add their personal touch to each plate.
<hr />
<h3><a href="http://www.brasseriefrance.no/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Brasserie France</a></h3>
Transport to Paris at the Brasserie France, where French dishes like steak frites and bouillabaisse grace the menu in a traditional bistro setting. 
For dessert, an unlimited buffet-style dessert trolley spoils diners with crème brûlée, puff pastries and macarons.

The 6 Best Restaurants in Oslo

Edinburgh

Scotland

<h2><a href="http://www.thetableedinburgh.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Table </a></h2>
The Table has a mere ten spots for lucky diners to get a front-row seat as their Chefs craft a seven-course menu from an open-air kitchen. 
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-42992 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/The-table_001_752x501.jpg" alt="best restaurants in Edinburgh" width="752" height="501" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/The-table_001_752x501.jpg 752w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/The-table_001_752x501-450x300.jpg 450w" sizes="(max-width: 752px) 100vw, 752px" />
Guests can interact and ask the Chefs questions as they watch their meal come to fruition in an intimate and relaxed setting.  
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<h2><a href="http://www.lescargotbleu.co.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">L’Escargot Bleu </a></h2>
<img loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-42993 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/bleu_002.jpg" alt="best restaurants in Edinburgh" width="378" height="283" />L’Escargot Bleu brings France to Scotland in this quaint bistro restaurant. 
Sample snails from the Isle of Barra and Wagyu beef from the Scottish Highlands in an atmosphere that stirs up images of small-town France, with vintage posters lining the walls, gingham tablecloths and wicker bread baskets at every table.
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<h2><a href="http://thekitchin.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Kitchin </a></h2>
Enjoy French fusion worthy of its Michelin star in the sleek dining room of The Kitchin. 
The philosophy here is “From Nature to Plate,” with Chef Tom Kitchin using only Scottish produce as well as undertaking all the butchering of meat and in-house to ensure diners are consuming the freshest food possible.
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<h2><a href="http://scranandscallie.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Scran &amp; Scallie</a></h2>
Scran &amp; Scallie is the result of two Michelin-star rated chefs (including Tom Kitchin of The Kitchin) opening up a gastropub to serve quality Scottish ‘scran’ (food) in an unpretentious setting. 
Home-cooked, farm-to-table meals are the focus here, presented among a rustic decor of reclaimed wood furnishings, tartan and tweeds, exposed brick and Scandinavian touches. 
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<h2><a href="http://baba.restaurant/">Baba </a></h2>
Enjoy a mezze-style spread inspired by Levantine flavours in this hip restaurant and cocktail bar. 
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-42996 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/baba_003_752x501.jpg" alt="best restaurants in Edinburgh" width="752" height="533" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/baba_003_752x501.jpg 752w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/baba_003_752x501-423x300.jpg 423w" sizes="(max-width: 752px) 100vw, 752px" />
Share small plates, housemade dips, and meats fired over a charcoal grill in a colourful setting of vividly coloured tiled and tapestried walls.
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<h3><a href="https://www.ondinerestaurant.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Ondine </a></h3>
Found in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town, Odine is the spot for, as they call it, “proper seafood”. 
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-43000 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/ondine_002_cropped_752x488.jpg" alt="best restaurants in Edinburgh" width="752" height="488" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/ondine_002_cropped_752x488.jpg 752w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/ondine_002_cropped_752x488-462x300.jpg 462w" sizes="(max-width: 752px) 100vw, 752px" />
Their menu consists of seafood and shellfish fresh from Scotland’s East Coast and pays homage to the local fishermen who provide them with their daily catch.
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<h3><a href="http://restaurantmartinwishart.co.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Restaurant Martin Wishart </a></h3>
Edinburgh-born Martin Wishart is lauded as one of the most respected Chefs in the UK, and upon a visit to his celebrated restaurant, it’s easy to see why. 
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-43002 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/martin_003_752x488.jpg" alt="best restaurants in Edinburgh" width="752" height="451" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/martin_003_752x488.jpg 752w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/martin_003_752x488-480x288.jpg 480w" sizes="(max-width: 752px) 100vw, 752px" />
His Michelin-star restaurant found in the Port of Leith sees a dining experience that’s equally classic French as it is proudly Scottish, with dishes like Emmental Soufflé and Peterhead Mackerel holding equal weight on the menu.
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<h3><a href="http://www.thewitchery.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Witchery</a></h3>
Tucked away in a building by the gates of the Edinburgh Castle, The Witchery has made a name for itself as one of the most famous restaurants in Scotland; a title brought on from its classic Scottish menu, historic location and enchanting Baroque decor. 
Head here for a memorable dinner or a traditional Scottish High Tea.

The 11 Best Restaurants in Edinburgh

Vancouver

<h3><a href="https://www.farmersapprentice.ca/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Farmer’s Apprentice</a></h3>
Vegans, vegetarians and meat-eaters alike can convene over farm-to-table meals in an inviting and minimalist setting at this organic restaurant in Kitsilano. 
The chefs let the ingredients do the talking, serving locally sourced fish, meat, fruits and vegetables with simple dressings. 
Their light weekend brunch swaps out typically heavy breakfast foods for cheese &amp; meat boards and creative salads.  
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<h3><a href="http://www.burdockandco.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Burdock &amp; Co</a></h3>
Chef Andrea Carlson and her team draw inspiration from the valleys, mountains and ocean to execute refined dishes through foraging (like their braised forest mushrooms) and produce from nearby farms.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-42762 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/burdock_001-1.jpg" alt="top restaurants in Vancouver " width="752" height="460" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/burdock_001-1.jpg 752w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/burdock_001-1-480x294.jpg 480w" sizes="(max-width: 752px) 100vw, 752px" />
They serve entrées you can keep all to yourself, but the best route is to order several small plates and share with friends over a bottle from their selection of all-natural wines.
<hr />
<h3><a href="http://www.kissatanto.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Kissa Tanto</a></h3>
Japanese meets Italian in the sleek dining room of this Chinatown haunt that’s renowned for their imaginative fare, fusing ingredients like stracciatella and seaweed without a moment’s hesitation. 
While they offer fantastic wines and spirits to accompany their world-melding creations, I suggest going with one of their expertly crafted cocktails. Mezcal with ginger chestnut honey vermouth and a toasted sesame rim, anyone?
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<h3><a href="https://mikurestaurant.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Miku Vancouver</a></h3>
For a new way to sushi, visit Miku—a waterfront restaurant that specializes in Aburi sushi, where the fish is partially grilled rather than served raw. 
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-42764 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/miku_004_752x460.jpg" alt="top restaurants in Vancouver " width="752" height="460" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/miku_004_752x460.jpg 752w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/miku_004_752x460-480x294.jpg 480w" sizes="(max-width: 752px) 100vw, 752px" />
You can give it a taste by ordering a Kaiseki: the traditional Japanese tasting menu that includes a sublime presentation on delicate pottery. À la carte options are also available to sample as you’d like.
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<h3><a href="http://masayoshi.ca/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Masayoshi</a></h3>
<img loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-43867 size-medium" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/masayoshi_003_378x302-375x300.jpg" alt="top restaurants in Vancouver " width="375" height="300" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/masayoshi_003_378x302-375x300.jpg 375w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/masayoshi_003_378x302.jpg 378w" sizes="(max-width: 375px) 100vw, 375px" />In an intimate room permeated with Japanese zen, experience omakase—a culinary performance where Chef Masayoshi Baba carefully assembles works of art with nigiri sushi at his whim. 
Be sure to make a reservation for this dinner that doubles as a show as there are only two seatings available per evening: one at 6 p.m. and the second at 8 p.m.
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<h3><a href="http://www.saviovolpe.com/menu/dinner/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Savio Volpe</a></h3>
Taking cues from the osteria’s of Italy, choose from a menu of wood-fired meats, charcuterie planks and handmade pasta ranging from traditional spaghetti and meatballs to veal tagliatelle. 
The stylish and warm sepia-toned salle, the banquet seating and the wafting heat and aroma from the open-flame oven invite you to linger over your meal in true Italian fashion.
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<h3><a href="http://www.stlawrencerestaurant.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">St. Lawrence Restaurant</a></h3>
Chef JC Poirier brings his home province to British Columbia, serving up a blend of Quebecois and French haute cuisine in a charming dining room that’s reminiscent of the classic bistros of France.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-42766 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/stlaurence_001.jpg" alt="top restaurants in Vancouver " width="752" height="460" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/stlaurence_001.jpg 752w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/stlaurence_001-480x294.jpg 480w" sizes="(max-width: 752px) 100vw, 752px" />
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<h2 style="text-align: center;">EXTRA ATTRACTIONS</h2>
Vancouver’s privileged location make it perfect for outdoor activities: bike riding, walking, hiking and tracing the seawall—the stone border that lines Stanley Park and a favourite jogging spot for Vancouverites. 
There’s also an array of cultural sites that are worth working into your itinerary. Here’s where we suggest checking out. 
<h3><a href="https://lynncanyon.ca/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Lynn Canyon </a></h3>
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-42886 alignright" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/lynn-canyon_002_378x240.jpg" alt="" width="378" height="240" />Head to Lynn Canyon for a less-crowded (and free!) alternative to the Capilano Suspension Bridge, which tends to garner more attention from tourists. 
The views here are just as spectacular, stretching over a deep gorge of rushing water and lush forest. 
Make sure you bring comfortable walking shoes as there are tons of stunning trails to explore within the park.
<h3><a href="https://granvilleisland.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Granville Island</a></h3>
This market is a must on any trip to Vancouver, brimming with gift boutiques, food stalls, gourmet shops selling specialty items, art galleries, craft breweries, distilleries and more. 
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-42770 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/granville_001.jpg" alt="" width="752" height="460" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/granville_001.jpg 752w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/granville_001-480x294.jpg 480w" sizes="(max-width: 752px) 100vw, 752px" />
Even without spending a dime, it’s worth a wander for the sights and smells and to check out the boats stationed along the dock. Make the journey by water taxi to add to the experience.  
<h3><a href="https://moa.ubc.ca/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">UBC Museum of Anthropology</a></h3>
Here you’ll find the artwork of Bill Reid, one of the country’s (and arguably—the world’s) most celebrated sculptors whose work celebrates the Indigenous cultures of the West Coast. 
You may already be familiar with his awe-inspiring piece, The Spirit of Haida Gwaii, the Jade Canoe, which can be seen upon arrival at the international terminal in the Vancouver Airport. We recommend allocating at least two to three hours of your day to check out his work at the Museum of Anthropology. 
If you don’t have time this much time to dedicate, you can scope out his orca at the <a href="https://www.vanaqua.org/">Vancouver Aquarium</a> or the <a href="https://www.billreidgallery.ca/">Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Art</a> located downtown. 
An insider tip: after your visit, there are fantastic hiking trails in the UBC endowment lands if you want to give your legs an extra stretch.  
<h3><a href="http://granvilleislandferries.bc.ca/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Water Taxis</a></h3>
These adorable tugboat-style watercraft are both a novel and affordable way to get around the city. Visit their <a href="http://granvilleislandferries.bc.ca/dock-locations/">website</a> for dock locations and the available sites to check out along their routes.

The 11 Top Restaurants in Vancouver

England

<h2>THE NEW GUARD </h2>
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-40590 alignright" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/wild-rabbit-ext540.jpg" alt="" width="476" height="594" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/wild-rabbit-ext540.jpg 476w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/wild-rabbit-ext540-240x300.jpg 240w" sizes="(max-width: 476px) 100vw, 476px" />There’s a new breed of watering holes that combine the essence of the English pub concerning quality beers, simple cuisine and an intimate atmosphere with a heightened focus on food and modern-day culinary trends. Known as gastropubs, these taverns of the 21st c. are on the rise in the Cotswolds, particularly with young Londoners turning to the countryside for city breaks and long weekend getaways. Head to any of these spots for innovative takes on conventional pub grub and rustic-chic interiors.
<h3><a href="https://thewildrabbit.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Wild Rabbit</a> at Kingham</h3>
The Wild Rabbit makes up part of the Daylesford estate, which is one of the most sustainable organic farms in the United Kingdom. The pub takes care to ensure their impact on their surroundings is minimal. Even most of the building was crafted from recycled and reclaimed materials, resulting in a trendy farmhouse feel that can’t be beaten. The food is just as pretty as the decor, featuring fresh garden salads and charcoal-cooked meat dishes always paired with colourful vegetables hand-picked from the farm.
<h4><a href="http://thefiveallsfilkins.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-40593 alignleft" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Grouse-Hunter-Wheat-Sheaf-Image-400.jpg" alt="" width="400" height="485" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Grouse-Hunter-Wheat-Sheaf-Image-400.jpg 400w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Grouse-Hunter-Wheat-Sheaf-Image-400-247x300.jpg 247w" sizes="(max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px" /></a></h4>
<h3><a href="http://thefiveallsfilkins.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Five Alls</a> at Filkins</h3>
Even though it’s frequented by A-list celebrities, The Five Alls haven’t let this get to their heads. With a fuss-free vibe and inviting atmosphere, head chef Sebastian Snow keeps the community a priority, sourcing seasonal ingredients from artisan producers in the Cotswolds. Whether you’re in the mood for something light or to tuck into some comfort food, their extensive menu of creative salads and hearty meat dishes offers both.
<h3><a href="https://www.theebringtonarms.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Ebrington Arms</a> at Ebrington</h3>
One of the U.K.’s top pubs, the Ebrington Arms has been a public house since at least 1640. From smooth ales that are brewed by the establishment itself, to its tucked-away location in a quiet village, this relaxed, unpretentious pub serves up hearty fare with international flavours, with a cracking selection of puddings to end your night on a sweet note.
<img loading="lazy" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-40616" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Ebrington-Arms732.jpg" alt="" width="732" height="366" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Ebrington-Arms732.jpg 732w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Ebrington-Arms732-480x240.jpg 480w" sizes="(max-width: 732px) 100vw, 732px" />
<h3><a href="http://www.thevillagepub.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-40595 alignright" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Barnlsey-House-Garden-400.jpg" alt="" width="400" height="503" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Barnlsey-House-Garden-400.jpg 400w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Barnlsey-House-Garden-400-239x300.jpg 239w" sizes="(max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px" /></a><a href="https://www.barnsleyhouse.com/the-village-pub/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Village Pub</a> at Cirencester</h3>
A posh gastropub with a shabby-chic vibe, the Village Pub is part of a complex that includes nearby Barnsley House, one of our <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/2018/03/15/top-country-hotels-england/">favourite hotels in the Cotswolds</a>. With an upscale, yet laid-back feel, look forward to well-executed pub favourites with added flair like a beef burger topped with bacon jam or fishcakes done Thai-style, in a welcoming atmosphere.
<h3><a href="https://troutinn.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Trout </a>at Tadpole Bridge</h3>
You might just want to stay all day at this fantastic Oxfordshire pub with its charming name: the Thames River banks are right on the doorstep, and you can expect some incredible fish dishes, from crayfish to trout or the catch of the day. Warm and inviting, the traditional honey-coloured stone home and cozy interior with exposed stone walls and timber frames will have you feeling at home.
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-40613 aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/The-Trout-at-Tadpole-Bridge.jpg" alt="" width="852" height="550" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/The-Trout-at-Tadpole-Bridge.jpg 852w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/The-Trout-at-Tadpole-Bridge-465x300.jpg 465w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/The-Trout-at-Tadpole-Bridge-768x496.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 852px) 100vw, 852px" />
<h3><a href="https://www.thyme.co.uk/dining/the-swan-at-southrop" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Swan</a> at Southrop</h3>
Straight from its on-site farm, the pub (not associated with the other Swan I’ve mentioned above) gathers its same-day produce to arrive minutes later on your plate. The 17th c. building has a merry pub area, a lovely dining room, and two gorgeous Cotswold stone courtyard gardens. Drawing from its Norman heritage, find English &amp; Breton ciders, craft ales and beers, and wines from small producers from England, France &amp; Portugal to boot.
<h3><a href="https://www.thelionwinchcombe.co.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Lion Inn</a><a href="https://www.thelionwinchcombe.co.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-40614 size-medium" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/lion-inn-winchbome-400-297x300.jpg" alt="" width="297" height="300" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/lion-inn-winchbome-400-297x300.jpg 297w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/lion-inn-winchbome-400.jpg 400w" sizes="(max-width: 297px) 100vw, 297px" /></a> at Winchcombe</h3>
While the typical blond Cotswold stone exterior dates from the 15th c., the inside is bright and modern, with comfortable touches like local wildflowers in vases and a roaring fire in the cooler months. Step in for local, seasonal British classics in the &#8220;walking capital&#8221; of the Cotswolds. With a snug, bar area and a terraced garden, keep your eye out for friendly dogs to pet, as canine companions are also welcome here!

Our Favourite Pubs in the Cotswolds

Portfolio

<h3><a href="https://www.ratadining.co.nz/">Rata</a></h3>
Rata’s name comes from the flowering, fiery-coloured rata tree &#8211; a species native to New Zealand &#8211; and serves as an homage to the country. Headed by Michelin-starred chef, Josh Emett, and veteran restaurateur, Fleur Caulton, Rata aims to embody the landscape (and flavours) of the South Island and combine them with a breezy Kiwi attitude in a relaxed eatery. This sense of calm extends to its discreet location away from the core and a decor of unfinished wood, polished stone and a trompe-l’oeil wall of a plush, green forest. As for the food, seafood and meat take on unconventional twists like Paua (a mollusc native to New Zealand) tortellini, glazed beef cheek from Wakanui and smoked eel from the freshwater streams and lakes of North Canterbury served with black truffle.
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-40931 aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Rata.jpg" alt="" width="732" height="391" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Rata.jpg 732w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Rata-480x256.jpg 480w" sizes="(max-width: 732px) 100vw, 732px" />
<h3><a href="https://sherwoodqueenstown.nz/"><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-40933 alignright" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/The-Sherwood450.jpg" alt="" width="450" height="449" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/The-Sherwood450.jpg 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/The-Sherwood450-301x300.jpg 301w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/The-Sherwood450-150x150.jpg 150w" sizes="(max-width: 450px) 100vw, 450px" />The Sherwood</a></h3>
You’ll need to venture out of the city to make a visit to the trendy Sherwood and its sprawling three acres of land that watch over of Lake Wakatipu. Both a motel and restaurant, The Sherwood encapsulates Queenstown’s community spirit. Using ingredients from their own kitchen gardens and the surrounding farms as well as a few foraged bits, their culinary team whips up feel-good food reflective of the season, while tattoo-clad bartenders concoct artisan cocktails and pour pints from ever-rotating taps of craft beer. Be sure to check out their schedule of hosted DJ sets and live music nights which happen a few times a month.
<h3><a href="http://www.vknow.co.nz/">Vknow Italian</a></h3>
This is my favourite spot for Italian food in Queenstown. You’ll have to take about a 5-minute cab ride out of town to get here, but trust me that it’s well worth the journey (another plus is you know it will be full of Q-Town natives rather than tourists). The intent here is to feel like you’re at home, and you do thanks to the excellent service, chilled-out atmosphere and home-style dishes.
A visit here is also a perfect opportunity to sip wine from the Otago region; co-owner Danny Carson has over 10 years of experience in the wine industry and runs some regular wine tasting events at the restaurant. If you’re interested in learning more about New Zealand vino, call ahead and ask when the next tasting evening is.

8 Best Places To Eat in Queenstown

Australia

<h2>The New Guard</h2>
<h4><a href="http://www.dormilona.com.au/store/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-40706 alignright" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Dormilona-350.jpg" alt="" width="350" height="351" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Dormilona-350.jpg 350w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Dormilona-350-299x300.jpg 299w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Dormilona-350-150x150.jpg 150w" sizes="(max-width: 350px) 100vw, 350px" />Dormilona Blanco Vin 2018</a></h4>
Pure Semillon from the Margaret River, about as natural a wine as it gets. Small-batch, hand-made, biodynamic, etc. Dormilona means “lazy bones” in Spanish, a nod to a laid back approach to making wine.
<h4><a href="http://www.theotherrightwines.com/2017-spring-release/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Other Right “Love Potion” Shiraz 2017</a></h4>
The “new style” Aussie Shiraz from the Adelaide Hills is going to be hard to find, as everything this husband and wife duo makes sells out with speed. They also use “lazy” to describe their philosophy. This wine clocks in at just 13% alcohol, which is quite light for Aussie Shiraz.
<h4><a href="https://www.shobbrookwines.com.au/wines/tommy-ruff" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-40708 alignleft" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Tom-Shobbrook-resized.jpg" alt="" width="450" height="448" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Tom-Shobbrook-resized.jpg 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Tom-Shobbrook-resized-301x300.jpg 301w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Tom-Shobbrook-resized-150x150.jpg 150w" sizes="(max-width: 450px) 100vw, 450px" />Shobbrook Tommy Ruff 2016</a></h4>
Natural wines made by Tom Shobbrook in the Barossa Valley from biodynamically grown grapes. Tommy Ruff is a blend of Syrah and Mourvedre designed for easy sipping.
<h4><a href="https://gentlefolk.com.au/product/forest-range-pinot-noir-2017/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Gentle Folk Forest Range Pinot Noir 2017</a></h4>
Chosen from the best barrels of each vintage, the Forest Range Pinot is the flagship wine of this non-interventionist winery. The winery is located in the Basket Range of the Adelaide Hills. Only 1392 bottles made in 2017.
<h4><a href="https://macforbes.com/product/2016-woori-yallock-rose/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Mac Forbes Woori Yallock Rosé 2016</a></h4>
A focus on terroir and, more specifically, coaxing amazing wines out of unsung plots of land in the Yarra Valley — that’s what drives Mar Forbes who’s worked in wineries around the world. Made from Pinot Noir planted in 1995 in the cooler zone of the Upper Yarra.
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-40712 aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Mac-Forbes-Winery-732.jpg" alt="" width="732" height="489" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Mac-Forbes-Winery-732.jpg 732w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Mac-Forbes-Winery-732-449x300.jpg 449w" sizes="(max-width: 732px) 100vw, 732px" />

10 Must-Try Australian Wines

<h3><img loading="lazy" class="size-medium wp-image-39989 alignright" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Outside-296x300.jpg" alt="" width="296" height="300" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Outside-296x300.jpg 296w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Outside.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 296px) 100vw, 296px" />Family Dining</h3>
<a href="http://www.starbelly.ca/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Starbelly 
</a>In the southeastern suburbs of Calgary, the farm-to-table initiative of Starbelly sees a healthy and sustainable menu using in-season ingredients perfected by expert cooking. Don’t miss their Waffle Station on Sundays, a sure hit with kids.
<a href="https://cibocalgary.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-40013 alignleft" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/cibo.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="249" />Cibo 
</a>A brightly-lit space housed in a beautiful brick building, enjoy old-fashioned Italian food served family-style at Cibo. Keeping things local and fresh, dishes are enhanced by ingredients such as greenhouse-grown micro basil and boar bacon from nearby producers.
<h3>Cafes &amp; Desserts</h3>
<a href="https://www.maribakeshop.ca/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Mari Bakeshop 
</a>The inspiration for Mari Bakeshop come on a dreary weekend in 2016, when Chef Douglas Gregory (formerly from the <a href="https://www.thomaskeller.com/tfl" target="_blank" rel="noopener">French Laundry</a> in California) saw past the winter drudge and fell in love with the fervour of Calgary’s East Village. He and his partner/pastry chef, Lauren Ahn, decided to open their bright and minimal-modern shop in this rising part of town, specializing in rolled cakes, choux cream puffs, and Parisian-style bread.<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-39999 alignright" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Bread.png" alt="" width="300" height="226" />
<a href="http://sidewalkcitizenbakery.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Sidewalk Citizen 
</a>Once upon a time, this 106-year old building housed a mattress factory; now, it’s the home of Sidewalk Citizen. Specializing in fresh bread, like organic sourdough, as well as flaky pastries, this bakery-café is a great spot to grab a sandwich or pizza for a quality, quick and tasty lunch.
<a href="http://www.byollia.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" class="size-medium wp-image-40004 alignleft" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Biscoito-248x300.jpg" alt="" width="248" height="300" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Biscoito-248x300.jpg 248w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Biscoito.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 248px) 100vw, 248px" />Ollia 
</a>Ollia combines traditional culinary practices with modern techniques to concoct some of the most delectable (and intricate) pastries in the city, especially the beloved macaron. Either pick up some of the delicate French cookie to go, or sample the gamut of flavours from the shop paired with a tea from their wide selection.<img loading="lazy" class="size-medium wp-image-40003 alignright" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Ice-Cream-208x300.jpg" alt="" width="208" height="300" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Ice-Cream-208x300.jpg 208w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Ice-Cream.jpg 250w" sizes="(max-width: 208px) 100vw, 208px" />
<a href="https://www.madebymarcus.ca/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Made by Marcus 
</a>Made by Marcus began when owner Marcus Purtzki found himself with excess egg yolk after making macarons (his original passion) and turned them into mouth-watering ice cream. Shortly thereafter, he superseded his macaron-making reputation, with people flocking to his micro-creamy opened in the summer of 2016. Try one of his unique flavours like matcha white chocolate or stick to a classic with an updated spin like Tahitian vanilla bean.
<h3>Hot Spots</h3>
<a href="https://www.calcuttacricketclub.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Calcutta Cricket Club</a> 
It won’t take long for you to notice that Calcutta Cricket Club is not your average Indian restaurant. Looking like a scene out of a Wes Anderson film, vibrant hues of pink, green, and orange combine with wickered walls and a tiled bar and floor of clashing patterns. Head here for a Bengalese-inspired menu featuring flavourful curries, Indian-style pub food, and exotic fruity cocktails.<img loading="lazy" class="size-medium wp-image-40022 alignleft" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Chinese-242x300.jpg" alt="" width="242" height="300" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Chinese-242x300.jpg 242w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Chinese.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 242px) 100vw, 242px" />
<a href="http://www.twopenny.ca/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Two Penny</a>
Serving classic Chinese food with a modern twist, this restaurant and bar mixes traditional Shanghai and Cantonese-inspired dishes with Albertan ingredients. A tea room hidden in the basement showcases another side Two Penny as a speakeasy-style cocktail bar with a menu of small plates and bao sandwiches.
<a href="http://shokuninyyc.ca" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Shokunin<img loading="lazy" class="size-medium wp-image-40018 alignright" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/sushi-1-244x300.jpg" alt="" width="244" height="300" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/sushi-1-244x300.jpg 244w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/sushi-1.jpg 250w" sizes="(max-width: 244px) 100vw, 244px" /></a>
With five younger siblings and a single-parent household, Albertan Chef Darren MacLean honed his cooking skills from a young age. Following a culinary tour through Japan, he returned home inspired to open Shokunin. Aiming for authenticity in all he does, Shokunin uses fresh ingredients and house-made sauces in flavourful small plates of Japanese fare.
<a href="http://www.unapizzeria.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-40017 alignleft" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/pizza.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="200" />Una 
</a>A great spot for a late-night snack, Una is famed for their California-style thin crust pizza adorned with locally sourced toppings, such as their rich and creamy formaggi (cheese) pizza drizzled with honey from the owner’s beehives.
&nbsp;

20 Best Calgary Restaurants

China

<h3><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-39712 alignleft" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/Otto-e-Mezzo-HK-350px.jpg" alt="" width="350" height="283" />Michelin-Starred and Exclusive Rooms</h3>
<a href="http://www.ottoemezzobombana.com/">8 ½ Otto e Mezzo Bombana</a> 
This is one of the best restaurants in town, and I’m not the first to say it. (It is the only Italian restaurant outside of Italy to bear three Michelin stars!) Be sure to book as far in advance as you can.
<a href="http://www.amberhongkong.com">Amber</a> 
Find this two Michelin-starred restaurant inside the lavish Landmark Mandarin Oriental. A small spot with a fun flair, enjoy a wide-selection of caviars or a 10-course tasting menu to sample an array of the chef’s concoctions.
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-39713 aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/Amber-HK-732px.jpg" alt="" width="732" height="437" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/Amber-HK-732px.jpg 732w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/Amber-HK-732px-480x287.jpg 480w" sizes="(max-width: 732px) 100vw, 732px" />
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-39729 alignright" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/China-Club-Chinoiserie-250px.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="315" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/China-Club-Chinoiserie-250px.jpg 250w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/China-Club-Chinoiserie-250px-238x300.jpg 238w" sizes="(max-width: 250px) 100vw, 250px" /><a href="http://www.chinaclub.com.sg/index.php?id=about-worldwide">China Club</a> 
China Club has remained the top exclusive place since its opening in 1991. Located inside the old Bank of China building, this place exudes class, adorned with paintings and sculptures by Chinese artists and a Bosendorfer grand piano resting discreetly in the corner of the dining room.
<a href="https://aqua.com.hk">Aqua</a> 
The experience at Aqua is all about the stunning 360-degree vantage point over the city (the neon-infused skyline is one of the world’s best), though their Japanese-Italian fusion menu is sure to impress, too. Make sure you get a table up front and marvel as twinkling city lights bounce off the water of the bay.
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-39726 aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/Aqua-HK-sky-960px.jpg" alt="" width="960" height="606" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/Aqua-HK-sky-960px.jpg 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/Aqua-HK-sky-960px-475x300.jpg 475w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/Aqua-HK-sky-960px-768x485.jpg 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/Aqua-HK-sky-960px-950x600.jpg 950w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" />
&nbsp;

Where to Eat in Hong Kong: 7 Best Restaurants

Chile

<h2>Argentinian Wines</h2>
<a href="http://www.catenazapata.com/catena-alta-malbec.php" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-39372 alignright" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/table-setting-250px-1.jpg" alt="Must Drink Wines From Chile and Argentina" width="250" height="343" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/table-setting-250px-1.jpg 250w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/table-setting-250px-1-219x300.jpg 219w" sizes="(max-width: 250px) 100vw, 250px" />Catena Alta Malbec 2014 
</a><a href="http://www.catenazapata.com/catena-alta-malbec.php" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Dr. Nicolas Catena</a> might be Argentina’s version of California’s Robert Mondavi as a pioneer of the premium wine lifestyle. This wine is full-bodied and elegant, with very light presence of oak.
<a href="https://www.wine-searcher.com/find/trapiche+terroir+series+finca+ambrosia+malbec+gualtallary+tupungato+uco+valley+mendoza+argentina/2013" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Trapiche Terroir Series Single Vineyard Malbec “Finca Ambrosía” 2013 
</a>A softer style but nevertheless <a href="http://www.decanter.com/wine-reviews/argentina/mendoza/trapiche-uco-valley-gualtallary-finca-ambrosia-terroir-12636">this is still a powerhouse</a>, with a full 18 months in new French oak. Higher alcohol, but fresh and silky.
<a href="http://www.zuccardiwines.com/zuccardi/common/public/pdf/58811ec963a2b.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Zuccardi Aluvional Gualtallary Malbec 2014 
</a>Rated 95 points by Robert Parker, the grapes come from several vineyards in the Gualtallary part of Tupungato in Valle de Uco, where the soils vary greatly. The wine is impressively structured, with a mineral quality that is the hallmark of the region.
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/Bodega-Teho-205764002934578/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Teho Malbec Tomal Vineyard 2014 
</a>Fresh and lively but still sporting formidable tannins, <a href="https://www.winemag.com/buying-guide/teho-2014-tomal-vineyard-malbec-mendoza/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">this wine</a> hails from Mendoza and will easily hold for 10 or more years. The word “teho” means “blood of the earth.”
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-39398 aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/dane-chile-vines-732px-1.jpg" alt="Must Drink Wines From Chile and Argentina" width="732" height="488" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/dane-chile-vines-732px-1.jpg 732w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/dane-chile-vines-732px-1-450x300.jpg 450w" sizes="(max-width: 732px) 100vw, 732px" />

8 Must-Drink Wines From Chile and Argentina

Our Favourite Hotel Bars in the Americas

Tuscany Travel Expert (and Tuscany Wine Enthusiast)

<img loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-39413 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/guides-wine-350px.jpg" alt="Best Tuscany Wines" width="350" height="233" />Recent history—say, the past 50 years or so—has seen the rise of the so-called Super Tuscans.
No doubt the names Sassicaia and Tignanello are familiar, as they are the trailblazers of a quality revolution that began in the 1960s among a few bold visionaries.
Bucking the strict rules imposed by Italian wine authorities, these winemakers sought to create more modern wines that would appeal to a global palate.
The popularity of these wines has helped lead a quality revolution in Tuscany. These wines are generally categorized as IGT—Indicazione Geografica Tipica—a relatively new classification introduced in 1992.
<img loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-39407 size-thumbnail" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/lady-white-whine-350px-250x156.jpg" alt="Best Tuscany Wines" width="250" height="156" />One of Italy’s most profound wines, Brunello di Montalcino, has a legacy dating back centuries.
The style of wine—big, age-worthy wines made with 100% Sangiovese from a special clone—is credited to Biondi-Santi, and these wines are among the most famous in the region. Rosso di Montalcino is the junior version of this wine, also 100% Sangiovese.
Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, is produced in several communes to the east of Montalcino, with 70% Sangiovese. These wines are delightful for easy drinking, softer and less rigid than the wines of Chianti and Brunello.
White wine plays a minor role in Tuscany, with grapes such as the native Vermentino, along with Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc. Moscadello (Moscato Bianco) is used to make a sweet wine in still and sparkling styles.
<hr />
<h2 style="text-align: center;">8 Of Our Favourite Tuscan Wines</h2>
<h3><a href="http://www.tenutasanguido.com/eng/sassicaia.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Sassicaia 2015</a></h3>
<img loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-45161 size-medium" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Diego_Sassicaia-2015.-Classe-ed-eleganza-anche-solo-dalla-bottiglia-240x300.jpg" alt="Best Tuscany Wines" width="240" height="300" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Diego_Sassicaia-2015.-Classe-ed-eleganza-anche-solo-dalla-bottiglia-240x300.jpg 240w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Diego_Sassicaia-2015.-Classe-ed-eleganza-anche-solo-dalla-bottiglia.jpg 378w" sizes="(max-width: 240px) 100vw, 240px" />The first Super Tuscan wine, made predominantly with Cabernet Sauvignon, paved the way for an explosion of modern-style blended wines after exploding onto the scene in 1968.
The wines are now classified as DOC Bolgheri Sassicaia.
<hr />
<h3><a href="https://www.antinori.it/en/vino/tignanello-en/?wineyear=2015" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Tignanello 2015</a></h3>
<img loading="lazy" class="alignleft wp-image-45164 size-medium" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Bottiglia-_0008_TIGNANELLO_grappa_ALTA-105x300.jpg" alt="Best Tuscany Wines" width="105" height="300" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Bottiglia-_0008_TIGNANELLO_grappa_ALTA-105x300.jpg 105w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Bottiglia-_0008_TIGNANELLO_grappa_ALTA-210x600.jpg 210w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Bottiglia-_0008_TIGNANELLO_grappa_ALTA.jpg 378w" sizes="(max-width: 105px) 100vw, 105px" />The first modern Italian red wine to be blended with non-traditional grapes, thus propelling the Super Tuscan genre when it was released in 1975.
A blend of mostly Sangiovese, with some Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc.
The Antinori family has been in the wine business for six centuries.
<hr />
<h3><a href="http://www.ornellaia.com/en/wines/ornellaia/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Ornellaia 2014</a></h3>
<img loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-45168 size-medium" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/ornellaia-2014-97x300.jpg" alt="Best Tuscany Wines" width="97" height="300" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/ornellaia-2014-97x300.jpg 97w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/ornellaia-2014.jpg 378w" sizes="(max-width: 97px) 100vw, 97px" />Also the Antinori family, Ornellaia is the result of new plantings of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot in 1981, with the first vintage hitting the market in 1985.
Styled after the wines of Bordeaux and made for ageing.
<img loading="lazy" class="alignleft wp-image-48910 size-medium" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Screen-Shot-2021-05-27-at-10.14.57-AM-87x300.png" alt="Best Tuscan Wines" width="87" height="300" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Screen-Shot-2021-05-27-at-10.14.57-AM-87x300.png 87w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Screen-Shot-2021-05-27-at-10.14.57-AM.png 318w" sizes="(max-width: 87px) 100vw, 87px" />
<hr />
<h3></h3>
<h3><a href="https://www.poderiboscarelli.com/prodotto/il-nocio-d-o-c-g-750/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Boscarelli Il Nocio 2016</a></h3>
Incredibly bold and tannic, this 100% Sangiovese has tantalizing notes of cherry, plum and blueberry at first sip, which evolves into earthy tones of tobacco, oak and balsamic for an austere finish.
This wine offers an intense yet delightful sharpness that’s best paired with red meat, poultry or game.
<hr />
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.internationalwinereport.com/latest-reports/5332-2011-biondi-santi-brunello-di-montalcino-2011" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Biondi-Santi Brunello di Montalcino 2011</a></h3>
The 1955 vintage was named one of 12 wines of the century by Wine Spectator magazine.
These wines are 100% Sangiovese from a special clone of the grape known as Brunello, which was identified by Ferruccio Biondi Santi in the late 1800s.
<hr />
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.chianticlassico.com/aziende/isole-e-olena/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-48907 size-medium" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Fontonidi_2006-175x300.png" alt="The Best Tuscan Wines Fontodi" width="175" height="300" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Fontonidi_2006-175x300.png 175w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Fontonidi_2006.png 350w" sizes="(max-width: 175px) 100vw, 175px" /></a><a href="http://www.fontodi.com/flaccianello.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Flaccianello della Pieve 2006</a></h3>
From one of the best producers in the Chianti Classico region, Fontodi is nestled in a coveted location that receives the perfect amount of sun exposure thanks to its amphitheatre-shaped valley.
This is made with 100% Sangiovese, one of Italy’s most desired red grape varieties. Its velvety texture and enticing scents of blackberry, plum and sweet cherry blend perfectly with its earthy undertones of sweet anise, toasty oak and olive tapenade for a medium to full-bodied flavour.
<hr />
<h3><a href="http://www.tenutedelcerro.it/fattoria-del-cerro" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Fattoria Del Cerro Vino Nobile di Montepulciano Riserva 2014</a></h3>
<img loading="lazy" class="alignleft wp-image-45173 size-medium" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/MONTESODI-2012-1-90x300.jpg" alt="Best Tuscany Wines" width="90" height="300" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/MONTESODI-2012-1-90x300.jpg 90w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/MONTESODI-2012-1-180x600.jpg 180w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/MONTESODI-2012-1.jpg 378w" sizes="(max-width: 90px) 100vw, 90px" />Easy drinking but quite complex for the price, this is made with 90% Sangiovese, known locally as Prugnolo Gentile, and 10% Mammolo, a somewhat obscure grape whose name means “violets.”
<hr />
<h3><a href="https://en.frescobaldi.com/wines/montesodi/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Castello di Nipozzano Montesodi 2012 </a></h3>
From the Frescobaldi family, leaders in the Chianti region for 700 years, with six estates in Tuscany. This wine is 100% Sangiovese.
&nbsp;

8 of Our Absolute Favourite Tuscan Wines

Essentials &amp; Advice

30 Best Hotel Bars Around the World

United States

<h2>Sonoma<a href="https://www.kostabrowne.com/product/detail/16PNSC750/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-39194 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/table-350px.jpg" alt="Top California Wines" width="350" height="230" /></a></h2>
<h4><a href="https://www.kostabrowne.com/product/detail/16PNSC750/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Kosta Browne Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir 2016</a></h4>
A stellar vintage brought pristine fruit sourced from several vineyards on the Sonoma Coast, which experiences maritime influences from the Pacific Ocean. Savoury and spice notes meld with plum, currants and chocolate.
<h4><a href="https://www.williamsselyem.com/wine/pinot-noir/2016-olivet-lane-vineyard-pinot-noir/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Williams Selyem Olivet Lane Vineyard Pinot Noir 2016</a></h4>
From one of the oldest Pinot Noir vineyards in the Russian River Valley, planted in 1975. This was an excellent vintage. Expect a perfumed and floral Pinot with black cherry and herbal notes. A complex, voluptuous wine.
<h4><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-39190 size-full aligncenter" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/vines-green-732px.jpg" alt="Top California Wines" width="732" height="488" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/vines-green-732px.jpg 732w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/vines-green-732px-450x300.jpg 450w" sizes="(max-width: 732px) 100vw, 732px" /></h4>
<h4><a href="https://www.lacrema.com/wine/nine-barrel-pinot-noir/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">La Crema Nine Barrel Pinot Noir 2015</a></h4>
This 100% Pinot Noir is made from nine barrels selected by the winemaker for their exceptional quality. A complex, multi-layered Pinot packed with cherry, black licorice and chocolate.
<h4><a href="https://www.pridewines.com/wine/our-wines/reserve-cabernet-sauvignon/2015-reserve-cabernet-sauvignon/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Pride Mountain Vineyards Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2015</a></h4>
A blend of fruit from Sonoma and Napa, this is Pride’s flagship Cabernet Sauvignon. It delivers the winery’s classic style: unctuous, powerful and fruit-forward, with layers of spice, herbs and nuts contributing to its intensity.
<h4><a href="https://www.jacksonfamilywines.com/en/our-wineries/arrowood" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Arrowood Réserve Spéciale Cabernet Sauvignon 2013</a></h4>
Arrowood has focused on Bordeaux varieties since 1986. The <a href="https://www.arrowoodvineyards.com/r%C3%A9serve-sp%C3%A9ciale-cabernet-sauvignon" target="_blank" rel="noopener">flagship Réserve Spéciale</a> is designed for ageing for 20 or more years. Robert Parker rated this wine 94+ points.
<h4><a href="http://www.kistlervineyards.com/wines/chardonnay/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Kistler Sonoma Mountain Chardonnay 2015</a></h4>
Kistler is a specialist in Chardonnay, though they also do wonderful Pinot Noir. <a href="http://www.lcbo.com/lcbo/product/kistler-sonoma-mountain-chardonnay-2015/183921#.WuMYWdPwZTY" target="_blank" rel="noopener">This wine</a> is made with fruit sourced from vineyard parcels in the Sonoma Mountains.
<img loading="lazy" class="alignnone wp-image-39196 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/vineyard-barn-732-px.jpg" alt="Top California Wines" width="732" height="487" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/vineyard-barn-732-px.jpg 732w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/vineyard-barn-732-px-451x300.jpg 451w" sizes="(max-width: 732px) 100vw, 732px" />

Top 11 California Wines You Must Try

best restaurants

Denmark

<h2>The Best Bars, Cafes &amp; Markets in Copenhagen</h2>
<h3 aria-level="3"><a href="https://reffen.dk/en/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reffen Streetfood Market</a> </h3>
Housed on wharves with a backdrop of warehouses in the port of Copenhagen, Reffen is a creative hub that now includes a diverse streetfood market with over 40 stands. Many seasonal events are hosted throughout the year in this perennially festive atmosphere.  Here, you can also visit Werkstatt, an urban bar and nightclub. 
<h3><a href="http://barvin.dk/?lang=en">Bar Vin</a></h3>
For a little bit of France in the middle of Copenhagen, this warm and cozy restaurant and wine bar has a large selection of (mostly) biodynamic wines, although organic and conventional wines make their way on to the list as well. Leaning on French tradition (with a hint of Italian), you may find bouillabaisse, risotto, moules or foie gras on hand if you order from the menu.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-38225 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Bar-Vin-CPH-960.jpg" alt="" width="732" height="366" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Bar-Vin-CPH-960.jpg 732w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Bar-Vin-CPH-960-480x240.jpg 480w" sizes="(max-width: 732px) 100vw, 732px" />
<h3 aria-level="3"><a href="https://empirical.co/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Empirical Distillery Tour and Tasting Room</a> </h3>
This highly innovative distillery produces distillates and cocktails with outlandish ingredients, exotic concepts, and dazzling flavours! The founders honed their skills at the Nordic Food Lab, an experimental space founded by Noma chef René Redzepi. Head to their website to book a tour, or just show up at their location on the artificial island of Refshaleøen (near Reffen street food market, above) for a tasting. 
<h3><a href="http://mikkeller.dk/location/mikkeller-bar-viktoriagade-copenhagen/"><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-38226 size-full alignright" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Mikkeller-glasses-350px.jpg" alt="" width="350" height="263" /></a><a href="https://mikkeller.com/news" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Mikkeller Bar, Vesterbro</a></h3>
For cutting-edge microbrews, make your way to Mikkeller &amp; Friends, a basement bar with an awesome streetside patio (I swear it’s nicer than I just described it). Join the hipsters of Vesterbro and get into over 30 Mikkeller taps, breweries from around the world, bottled selections, craft sodas, spirits, and snacks. You never know what’s on tap; with wild names and intriguing flavours, it’s always a good time.<span class="EOP SCXW174293077 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:true,&quot;134233118&quot;:true,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:6,&quot;335551620&quot;:6,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}"> 
<h3><a href="https://torvehallernekbh.dk/">Torvehallerne</a> </h3>
This traditional market, located in a vibrant part of town close to the Botanical Gardens, is always a go-to for snacks, lunch, and produce, and is also a great place to engage in the local life of Copenhagen and people-watch!<span class="EOP SCXW169655938 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:true,&quot;134233118&quot;:true,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:6,&quot;335551620&quot;:6,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}"> 
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-38227 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Torvehallerne-960px.jpg" alt="" width="960" height="540" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Torvehallerne-960px.jpg 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Torvehallerne-960px-480x270.jpg 480w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Torvehallerne-960px-768x432.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" />
<h3><a href="https://paludan-cafe.dk/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Paludan Bogcafe</a></h3>
An excellent café that looks like an old library, located beside the university. It’s also a bookstore and publishing company—the perfect ambience for a relaxing morning or afternoon stop. A full menu from breakfast and brunch to sandwiches, snacks and mains, beer, wine, and cocktails are also served if your morning stretches onwards. A great thing to note about Copenhagen is that every café and bar has outdoor seating and blankets to offer so people can still sit outside during the winter—the Danes are not afraid of the cold!<span class="EOP SCXW266226451 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:true,&quot;134233118&quot;:true,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:6,&quot;335551620&quot;:6,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}"> 
&nbsp;

My Favourite Restaurants & Bars in Copenhagen

Vietnam

<h3><a href="http://www.maisonmarou.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Maison Marou</a></h3>
Marou is bringing chocolate to the forefront in Vietnam. Marou is the first large-scale producer of single-origin dark chocolate from the Mekong Delta. Their focus on fresh ingredients, rich flavours, and chic design has gained them international acclaim, and their products can now be found in 25 countries, including Canada and the United States, Maison Marou is their dessert café in the centre of District 1. While it may be scorching hot outside, the fresh mint hot chocolate will still blow you away.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-37886 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Maison-Marou-Choco-960px.jpg" alt="" width="960" height="594" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Maison-Marou-Choco-960px.jpg 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Maison-Marou-Choco-960px-250x156.jpg 250w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Maison-Marou-Choco-960px-480x297.jpg 480w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Maison-Marou-Choco-960px-768x475.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" />
<h2>Bars, Brews, and Brunch</h2>
<h3><a href="http://www.hoteldesartssaigon.com/restaurants-bars/social-club-rooftop-bar/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" class=" wp-image-52154 alignright" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Social-Club-Rooftop1-1-455x300.jpg" alt="" width="372" height="245" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Social-Club-Rooftop1-1-455x300.jpg 455w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Social-Club-Rooftop1-1-911x600.jpg 911w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Social-Club-Rooftop1-1-768x506.jpg 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Social-Club-Rooftop1-1-1536x1012.jpg 1536w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Social-Club-Rooftop1-1.jpg 1800w" sizes="(max-width: 372px) 100vw, 372px" />Hotel des Arts Social Club Rooftop Bar</a></h3>
No visit to Ho Chi Minh City is complete without soaking in the view from a rooftop bar, and Sofitel’s MGallery Hotel des Arts Social Club is the best of the best. Standing high above District 1, there’s no better spot to watch the city’s skyline put on a glittering light show. Grab a couch, dip your feet in the pool, and mingle with Saigon’s elite as the city sparkles all around you.
<h3><a href="https://heartofdarknessbrewery.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Heart of Darkness </a></h3>
Heart of Darkness is a pioneering craft brewery based in Saigon, among many in <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/get-inspired/travel-journal/an-insider-guide-to-vietnamese-beer" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Vietnam&#8217;s burgeoning craft beer scene</a>. If you&#8217;re up for a change of culinary pace, try their brewpub. The roster of fantastic beers is matched with a variety of pub classics, Mexican food and tapas, each with its own unique twists (yes, salads and veggie burger patties are also well-represented). 
Want more expert insight? Experience Designer <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/experts/nathan-lane/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Nathan Lane</a> has been named a Condé Nast Top Travel Expert for Vietnam three years in a row. He&#8217;d love to bring your travel dreams to life.

The 10 Best Saigon Restaurants

France

Bordeaux

<h4>St-Emilion</h4>
To most people, St-Emilion is the appellation of fine red wine. It is, however, also the name of a charming village in the middle of the wine-growing district.  Its origins go back to the 8th century when the hermit Emilion dug out a cave for himself in the rock.  The like-minded followed the hermit, and by the Middle Ages, St-Emilion had become a small town.  Today medieval houses still line the narrow streets, and parts of the 13th-century ramparts remain.  Famous châteaux in the district include the elegant Figeac, Cheval Blanc, Angelus and Ausone.
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-37846 aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/BDOBS_08282011_PHA_PF_446-Chateau-Figeac-732px-compressed.jpg" alt="" width="732" height="488" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/BDOBS_08282011_PHA_PF_446-Chateau-Figeac-732px-compressed.jpg 732w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/BDOBS_08282011_PHA_PF_446-Chateau-Figeac-732px-compressed-450x300.jpg 450w" sizes="(max-width: 732px) 100vw, 732px" />
Recommended Bottles:
&#8211;<a href="https://www.chateau-figeac.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> Château Figeac, 2010</a> 
&#8211;<a href="https://www.chateau-cheval-blanc.com/en/vintages/chateau-cheval-blanc-2014">Château Cheval Blanc, 2014 </a> 
&#8211;<a href="http://www.vignoblesperse.com/en/vin/1/chateau-pavie">Château Pavie, 2016</a> 
<h4>Pomerol</h4>
This small but distinctive wine region produces opulent and glamorous red wines using mainly the Merlot grape.  Pomerol’s most successful wines are some of the world’s most acclaimed.  The finest wines are made on the highest parts of the plateau, which is predominantly gravel with layers of clay, becoming sandier in the west, where lighter wines are made.  The subsoil here is dominated by a local iron-rich clay, known as crasse de fer, of which Château Pétrus has a stratum particularly close to the surface.  Pomerol is unusual in being the only one of Bordeaux’s great wine districts to have no official classification.
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-37851 aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Wine-Glasses-960px-compressed.jpg" alt="" width="960" height="640" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Wine-Glasses-960px-compressed.jpg 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Wine-Glasses-960px-compressed-450x300.jpg 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Wine-Glasses-960px-compressed-768x512.jpg 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Wine-Glasses-960px-compressed-900x600.jpg 900w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" />
Recommended Bottles:
&#8211;<a href="https://www.la-conseillante.com/en/notre-vin/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Château La Conseillante, 2010</a>  
&#8211;<a href="http://www.vieuxchateaucertan.com/en/great-wines-pomerol/vieux-chateau-certan.html">Vieux Château Certan, 2015</a>  
&#8211;<a href="http://www.moueix.com/en/pomerol/trotanoy/">Château Trotanoy, 2015</a> 
&#8211; Château Pétrus, 2016

The World's Best: Top 15 Bordeaux Wines

Spain

Catalonia

<h2><a href="http://www.elsbrancs.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Els Brancs</a></h2>
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-36702 alignright" src="http://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/Els-Brancs-Food-Dish-350px-cmopressed.png" alt="" width="350" height="288" />At Els Brancs (&#8220;the branches&#8221;), named for the islands sitting just off the coast of this scenic seaside restaurant, it might be hard to tear your eyes away from the view to fully appreciate the edible art in front of you.
But the stupendous setting combined with visually arresting plates, one might argue, is, in fact, the perfect sensory overload for uniquely plated Catalonian food. (As you can see, the sunsets are spectacular, too.)
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-36701 aligncenter" src="http://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/els-Brancs-Sunset-960p-compressed.png" alt="" width="960" height="518" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/els-Brancs-Sunset-960p-compressed.png 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/els-Brancs-Sunset-960p-compressed-480x259.png 480w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/els-Brancs-Sunset-960p-compressed-768x414.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" />
<h2><a href="http://www.lesmagnolies.com/en/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Les Magnòlies</a></h2>
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-36709 alignright" src="http://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/Les-Magnolies-Dining-Room-350px-compressed.png" alt="" width="350" height="236" />Three-hundred-year-old magnolia trees lend their perfume and their name to Les Magnòlies, now in its 20th year of service. Go all out and choose the gastronomic menu, with twenty(!) courses featuring the best from the sea and the land, eat a la carte, or go for a more ‘restrained’ tasting menu. Dishes are plated with a modern sensibility while not going completely over the top (i.e. you can still recognize the food you are about to eat!)
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-36708 aligncenter" src="http://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/Les-Magnolies-Tuna-732px-compressed.png" alt="" width="732" height="335" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/Les-Magnolies-Tuna-732px-compressed.png 732w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/Les-Magnolies-Tuna-732px-compressed-480x220.png 480w" sizes="(max-width: 732px) 100vw, 732px" />
<h2><a href="http://www.elstinars.com/ca/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Els Tinars</a> </h2>
A family-run restaurant, now owned and operated by the third generation of the Gascons-Lloveres family, Els Tinars is set in a renovated Catalan farmhouse, where there’s an option to dine outside amongst fragrant hanging wisteria vines. Partake in classic cuisine, including charcoal-grilled Galician beef, and enjoy the old-school table service, which includes waiters cooking, grilling, or carving meat, poultry, and fish in front of your very eyes. You will also find more than 500 wines on their list from Spain and around the world.
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-36710 aligncenter" src="http://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/els-tinars-960px-comrpessed2.png" alt="" width="960" height="697" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/els-tinars-960px-comrpessed2.png 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/els-tinars-960px-comrpessed2-413x300.png 413w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/els-tinars-960px-comrpessed2-768x558.png 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/els-tinars-960px-comrpessed2-826x600.png 826w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" />
<h2><a href="http://www.restaurantmassana.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Massana</a></h2>
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-36698 alignright" src="http://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/Massana-Food-rice-350px-compressed.png" alt="" width="350" height="284" />Massana has been around for over thirty years, but just earned its first Michelin star in 2007. Run by a husband-wife duo, Pere Massana and Ana Roger, there’s no need to ask—put trust in their taste, and enjoy the simplicity of excellent ingredients married with impeccable presentation. Case in point: original cocktails, varied textures (think tomato-infused jellies or crisp anchovy toasts), a smattering of seafood and a hint of Japanese and other Asian flavours on your plate.
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-36697 aligncenter" src="http://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/Massana-peashell-732px-compressed.png" alt="" width="732" height="467" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/Massana-peashell-732px-compressed.png 732w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/Massana-peashell-732px-compressed-470x300.png 470w" sizes="(max-width: 732px) 100vw, 732px" />
<h2>Also Worth Checking Out</h2>
<h2><a href="http://www.vicusrestaurant.com/en/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-36714 alignright" src="http://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/Vicus-Plate-250px-compressed.png" alt="" width="250" height="327" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/Vicus-Plate-250px-compressed.png 250w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/Vicus-Plate-250px-compressed-229x300.png 229w" sizes="(max-width: 250px) 100vw, 250px" />Vicus</a></h2>
Dive into the flavours of contemporary Catalonia as the husband-wife restauranteurs, Elisabet Figuerola and Gerard Geli, along with head chef Damià Rafecas, sing the simple praises of the seasons.
Of particular note are the rice dishes, made with locally cultivated grains grown right in Pals. The restaurant has been awarded a Michelin Bib Gourmand award, offering good value and quality.
<h2>Calçotada Festival</h2>
This one is a little odd, but I had to mention this truly local happening: one of the more charming folk festivals in the region is the <a href="https://www.festacatalunya.cat/articles-mostra-1542-cat-festa_de_la_calyotada_de_valls.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">calçotada festival</a>, held in Valls around late January. Through the winter season, the delicious <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cal%C3%A7ot" target="_blank" rel="noopener">calçot</a> (akin to a scallion or green onion) comes into season; it is celebrated all throughout Catalonia by locals who eagerly anticipate its return.
Be prepared to get messy when you eat them: the vegetable is blackened over a fire; eaters then peel away the charred outer skins to feast on the tender white portions, dipping them in romesco sauce as an accompaniment. (Bibs are a necessity, although they may not help entirely). The rest of this traditional feast is comprised of roasted lamb, sausage, and white beans. If you’re in town during the calçot season, it goes without saying that you must try this specialty.
<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-36716 aligncenter" src="http://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/calcotada-732px-compressed.png" alt="" width="732" height="549" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/calcotada-732px-compressed.png 732w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/calcotada-732px-compressed-400x300.png 400w" sizes="(max-width: 732px) 100vw, 732px" />

Where to Eat: Favourite Costa Brava Restaurants

Germany

<h3><a href="https://fathercarpenter.com/">Father Carpenter Coffee Brewers 
</a></h3>
Head to one of the nicest-looking coffee shops in the city, run by expat Aussies who know their stuff, and take their coffee seriously (but not too seriously). A lovely courtyard, stylish black-and-white interior, and wide selection of foods and snacks (shakshuka, avocado toast, sandwiches, croissants, cakes, etc.) make this the perfect breakfast or brunch spot.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-36018 size-full" src="http://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/fathercarpenter2.png" alt="" width="732" height="545" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/fathercarpenter2.png 732w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/fathercarpenter2-403x300.png 403w" sizes="(max-width: 732px) 100vw, 732px" />
<h3><a href="https://www.fiveelephant.com/">Five Elephant</a></h3>
Located in the trendy Kreuzberg neighbourhood, Five Elephant is known for their top-notch, single-origin roasts, which you will also find supplying coffee shops around town. Get them straight from the source, along with Berlin’s favourite slice of New York-style cheesecake. The cafe’s seating is limited, as it’s a smaller location.
<img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-36019 size-full aligncenter" src="http://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/five-elephant-cheesekake-kammilee.png" alt="" width="732" height="535" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/five-elephant-cheesekake-kammilee.png 732w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/five-elephant-cheesekake-kammilee-410x300.png 410w" sizes="(max-width: 732px) 100vw, 732px" />
<h3><a href="http://shop.roeststaette.de/">Röststätte</a></h3>
Stop in for shots, shiny, terribly high-end espresso machines (if my mention of a ‘VA388 Black Eagle’ means something to you, make a beeline here!)  and some of the city’s best coffee. If you’re hungry, they serve breakfast, small bites, cakes (yes, even cheesecake&#8230;) and pastries too. Röststätte also operates a barista academy, so aspiring coffee geeks can also purchase equipment, books, and beans.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-36022 size-full" src="http://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/roststatte-new-732-compressed.png" alt="" width="732" height="525" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/roststatte-new-732-compressed.png 732w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/roststatte-new-732-compressed-418x300.png 418w" sizes="(max-width: 732px) 100vw, 732px" />
<h3><a href="http://www.westberlin-bar-shop.de/">Westberlin</a> </h3>
Most of our recommendations are tucked away in quiet neighbourhoods or side streets, but Westberlin is right in the eye of the hurricane. Located a stone’s throw from touristy Checkpoint Charlie, this busy coffee shop and bookstore is a great alternative from the other coffee chains in the immediate area. You can’t miss its white Scandinavian-cool interior. Take a deep breath, and refuel for the rest of your day. Rumour has it, they also serve the famous Five Elephant cheesecake here too…
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-36021 size-full" src="http://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/westberlin-2-mansi-tweari.png" alt="" width="732" height="512" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/westberlin-2-mansi-tweari.png 732w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/westberlin-2-mansi-tweari-429x300.png 429w" sizes="(max-width: 732px) 100vw, 732px" />

Beaune

Cities

Where to Eat

Burgundy

<hr />
<h3>A Few More Faves:</h3>
<a title="Le Jardin des Remparts" href="http://www.le-jardin-des-remparts.com/en/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-15782 size-medium alignright" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/Jardin-Remparts-320x212.jpg" alt="Beaune restaurants" width="320" height="212" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/Jardin-Remparts-320x212.jpg 320w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/Jardin-Remparts-124x82.jpg 124w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/Jardin-Remparts.jpg 400w" sizes="(max-width: 320px) 100vw, 320px" />Le Jardin des Remparts 
</a>This restaurant boasts a fantastic terrace, some very innovative food, and a charming atmosphere. It has been highly rated by the famous French guidebook Gault &amp; Millau. The service is not the speediest, but keep in mind, you are intended to linger over your meal and enjoy your company. 
Closed Sundays and Mondays
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<a title="Le Comptoir des Tontons" href="http://www.lecomptoirdestontons.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Le Comptoir des Tontons 
</a>Les Tontons is a great place with an excellent small menu that changes daily. The atmosphere is elegant but not stuffy. Lots of locals go here, and Paquita, the chef, is consistent and creative. Everything here is fresh and organic: they work exclusively with seasonal products and carefully select their ingredients from the finest small producers. 
Closed Sundays and Mondays
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<a title="Le Petit Paradis" href="http://www.restaurantleptitparadis.fr/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Le Petit Paradis 
</a>A great little find tucked away on Rue Paradis behind the pedestrian zone. Excellent menus with a variety of prices, à la carte choices made from fresh produce, and a good wine list. Reserve in advance, as there are not many tables and they fill quickly. 
Closed Sundays and Mondays
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<a href="http://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/Beaune-restaurants.jpg"><img loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-27375 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/Beaune-restaurants.jpg" alt="Beaune Restaurant" width="350" height="219" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/Beaune-restaurants.jpg 350w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/Beaune-restaurants-250x156.jpg 250w" sizes="(max-width: 350px) 100vw, 350px" /></a><a href="https://www.google.ca/url?sa=t&amp;rct=j&amp;q=&amp;esrc=s&amp;source=web&amp;cd=1&amp;cad=rja&amp;uact=8&amp;ved=0CB4QFjAAahUKEwjWvPevyaTIAhULWT4KHZqeD34&amp;url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.leconty.fr%2F&amp;usg=AFQjCNEBySaqFCaPG7MpIuA9a7hj5gm7Vw" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Le Conty 
</a>A nice restaurant with good food and quality service. The terrace is one of the finest in town. Set menus here are always a good choice and change seasonally. Laurent Parra, the chef, is from a local gourmet family. Priced about mid-range among restaurants in Beaune. 
Closed Sundays and Mondays

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<a href="http://www.lhoteldebeaune.com/en/bistro/">Le Bistro de l’Hôtel</a>
<img loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-33872 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/LHotelBistro_350_c.png" alt="" width="350" height="233" />This bistro focuses on serving simple food, using only the freshest high-quality produce from local suppliers, including fish, seafood, beef, <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bresse_chicken">poulet de Bresse</a> (the best-tasting chicken in the world!) and Charolais veal.
This is simply one of the best tables in Beaune, with an equally superb wine list. We also love their deli, which serves delicious pizzas all day on a terrace that is perfectly situated for people-watching. 
Closed Sundays 

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<a href="https://www.facebook.com/Caves-Madeleine-Beaune-1427094257555325/">Les Caves Madeleine</a>
There’s a communal table set up inside this friendly, intimate and casual abode. This is a great spot for regional specialties and features a large range of à la carte options. It also boasts an excellent selection of wines that are stored and displayed all around you—how can you resist? The chef is a true artist who chooses the best local produce and turns them into divine creations on your plate. This has been one of B&amp;R’s favourites for many years. 
Closed Wednesdays and Sundays 

<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-33873 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/CavesMadeleine_752_c.png" alt="" width="752" height="382" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/CavesMadeleine_752_c.png 752w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/CavesMadeleine_752_c-480x244.png 480w" sizes="(max-width: 752px) 100vw, 752px" />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/Les-popiettes-463830700387686/"><img loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-33874 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/LesPopiettes_250_c.png" alt="" width="250" height="327" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/LesPopiettes_250_c.png 250w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/LesPopiettes_250_c-229x300.png 229w" sizes="(max-width: 250px) 100vw, 250px" />Les Pôpiettes</a>
Within a year of opening, this cozy restaurant has quickly become one of our favourite new restaurants on our list! The chef is an outstanding young Italian woman who creates her menu according to the season. Expect to encounter a modern fusion of French and Italian flavours on your plate, finished with impeccable presentation—colours, flowers and herbs galore. 
Closed Tuesdays   
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<a href="https://www.facebook.com/La-Buissonni%C3%A8re-188896724501292/"><img loading="lazy" class="alignleft wp-image-33877 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/LaBuissoniere_250_c.png" alt="" width="250" height="339" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/LaBuissoniere_250_c.png 250w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/LaBuissoniere_250_c-221x300.png 221w" sizes="(max-width: 250px) 100vw, 250px" />La Buissionière</a>
With old vintage pieces decorating the room, this modern yet funky new restaurant has everything you need for a casual dinner, especially if you&#8217;re looking for a relaxed, unpretentious experience.  
Run by a husband-and-wife team, you can see everything being made in the open kitchen.
The food here is simple yet delicious, traditional but with a twist, and, as you might expect, they have a great selection of wines. What more do you need? 
Closed Saturdays and Sundays
<hr />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Bistrot-des-Cocottes/129510653768377">Le Bistro des Cocottes</a>
<img loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-33881 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/BistrotCocottes_350_c.png" alt="" width="350" height="241" />If you want to head to a place where you are guaranteed a good time, the Beaune B&amp;R team always has Les Cocottes in mind. (They also don’t mind when we’re loud, so that’s a huge bonus.)
We love the simple food there, the emphasis on quality (it’s certainly one of the best entrecôte steaks I’ve ever had!), and the wonderfully friendly service. An added bonus, they serve late! 
Closed Sundays and Mondays
<hr />
<a href="http://www.latavolacalda.fr/">La Tavola Calda</a> 
Design-oriented, with a modern atmosphere, this excellent Italian restaurant is the perfect spot if you need a break from ‘classic’ French fare. In our opinion, the fresh and delicious salads are the best in town. Don’t miss the pizzas, either—the flavours are authentically Italian, so here&#8217;s the place to go if you are craving something different. 
Closed Sundays and Mondays
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-33882 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/La-Tavola-Calda_752_c.png" alt="" width="752" height="385" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/La-Tavola-Calda_752_c.png 752w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/La-Tavola-Calda_752_c-480x246.png 480w" sizes="(max-width: 752px) 100vw, 752px" />
<a href="http://www.maisonducolombier.com/restaurant-beaune-wine-bar.html#!home">La Maison du Colombier</a> and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/La-Dilettante-Beaune-175786925946189/">La Dilettante</a> 
<img loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-42509 size-thumbnail" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/MaisonColombier_350_c-250x156.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="156" />These are the two most recent up-and-coming wine bars/tapas bars in town. A side note: when we say ‘tapas’ here in Burgundy, it not only means amazing charcuteries and cheeses, but also a selection of incredibly fresh dishes of the day cooked “à la minute” by the talented chefs (who each previously owned other restaurants in town but decided to “retire” by running these wine bars!).
The terrace of the Maison du Colombier, which overlooks the Notre-Dame church, is an unparalleled location to savour a glass of Grand Cru at the end of a long ride!
Maison du Colombier has an impressive wine list that features the delights of Burgundy, along with the rest of France’s most talented winemakers. La Dilettante, with a smaller, more casual atmosphere, will serve you delicious local fare, along with a selection of mostly Burgundy wines, as well as <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Biodynamic_wine">biodynamic</a> and <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Natural_wine">natural</a> wines. 
Both restaurants are closed Wednesdays and Sundays

Where to Eat: Our Favourite Beaune Restaurants

Best Wines of the World

Provence

<hr />
<h3><a href="http://www.menerbes.fr/Menerbes/le-vin-la-truffe-et-la-pierre/les-domaines-viticoles/65-domaine-ruffinatto" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-33242" src="http://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Best-Rhone-Valley-Wines-Ruffinatto.jpg" width="275" height="291" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Best-Rhone-Valley-Wines-Ruffinatto.jpg 340w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Best-Rhone-Valley-Wines-Ruffinatto-283x300.jpg 283w" sizes="(max-width: 275px) 100vw, 275px" />Domaine Ruffinatto</a></h3>
<h5>Menerbes, AOC Luberon</h5>
This Owner/winemaker is also the mayor of Menerbes and a friend of B&amp;R.
Most of his wines are on limestone soils and he makes a very limited amount of wine, mostly reds with good structure and minerality, while his whites and rosés are fresh and thirst-quenching.
Difficult to visit (unless you’re with B&amp;R, of course); appointment required.
<hr />
<h3><a href="http://www.domaine-mordoree.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-33258" src="http://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Best-Rhone-Valley-Wines-Mordoree-93x300.jpg" width="124" height="400" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Best-Rhone-Valley-Wines-Mordoree-93x300.jpg 93w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Best-Rhone-Valley-Wines-Mordoree.jpg 135w" sizes="(max-width: 124px) 100vw, 124px" />Domaine de la Mordorée</a></h3>
<h5>AOC village of Tavel</h5>
Robert Parker listed this winery as one of the top 100 in the world.
Original owner/winemaker Christophe Delorme sadly left us last year at the very young age of 52. His wife, daughter and loyal staff are continuing in his footsteps, making some of the most well known wines in the Appellations they produce.
His legendary Tavel rosés are deep and structured. Their white Liracs are complex, with impressive freshness, and the red Lirac &amp; Chateauneuf du Papes are rich and age-worthy.
Winery includes tasting room and all wines are organic.
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<h3><a href="http://www.saintcosme.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Chateau St. Cosme</a></h3>
<figure id="attachment_33244" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-33244" style="width: 400px" class="wp-caption alignright"><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-33244" src="http://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Best-Rhone-Valley-Wines-Saint-Cosme.jpg" alt="" width="400" height="300" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-33244" class="wp-caption-text">Owner/winemaker Louis Barruol</figcaption></figure>
<h5>AOC Gigondas, on the edge of the beautiful village of Gigondas</h5>
Owner/winemaker Louis Barruol makes the most impressive AOC Gigondas! His family has owned this winery since 1490 and there are even Roman wine vats carved out of the limestone in the cellar.
Most of his vines are on limestone and clay. If you’re in the area you absolutely must visit, and just hope they have wine left to taste. Louis has a very impressive negociant business where he produces excellent wines from many Rhone Cru Appellations.
Winery includes tasting room.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-33245" src="http://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Best-Rhone-Valley-Wines-Saint-Cosme2.jpg" alt="" width="1200" height="675" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Best-Rhone-Valley-Wines-Saint-Cosme2.jpg 1200w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Best-Rhone-Valley-Wines-Saint-Cosme2-480x270.jpg 480w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Best-Rhone-Valley-Wines-Saint-Cosme2-768x432.jpg 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Best-Rhone-Valley-Wines-Saint-Cosme2-960x540.jpg 960w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" />
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<h3><a href="https://www.domainedemourchon.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-33261 size-full" src="http://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Best-Rhone-Valley-Wines-Mourchon.jpg" width="300" height="417" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Best-Rhone-Valley-Wines-Mourchon.jpg 300w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Best-Rhone-Valley-Wines-Mourchon-216x300.jpg 216w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />Domaine Mourchon</a></h3>
<h5>Village of Seguret</h5>
Situated above the stunning medieval village of Seguret, they make a few different wines, but specialize in AOC Cotes du Rhone Village Seguret. Owner Walter McKinnley, who is half Scottish and half English, is a wonderful gent and gives a fantastic visit of his &#8220;James Bond&#8221; winery (all done by gravity).
Their soil is mostly intense limestone, which allows them to make deeply structured red wines. They also make a little white and rosé, which are delightful with serious drinkability.
Winery includes tasting room.
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<h3><a href="http://www.chateauneuf.dk/cairanne/en/caen21.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-33241" src="http://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Best-Rhone-Valley-Wines-Richaud.jpg" width="100" height="294" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Best-Rhone-Valley-Wines-Richaud.jpg 175w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Best-Rhone-Valley-Wines-Richaud-102x300.jpg 102w" sizes="(max-width: 100px) 100vw, 100px" />Domaine Richaud</a></h3>
<h5>AOC Cairanne</h5>
Owner/Winemaker Marcel Richaud is an icon and his family are the locomotive of the AOC Cairanne – they were the proponents to bring Cairanne into Cru status this past year. His wines are organic and he has various soils, including clay, limestone, and river rock.
They make intense deep reds, small batches of white and rosés that are delicious. Very little sulphur is added to their wines and they are organic.
Winery includes tasting room.
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<h3><a href="http://www.sangdescailloux.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-33252" src="http://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Best-Rhone-Valley-Wines-Cailloux-100x300.jpg" alt="" width="100" height="300" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Best-Rhone-Valley-Wines-Cailloux-100x300.jpg 100w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Best-Rhone-Valley-Wines-Cailloux.jpg 182w" sizes="(max-width: 100px) 100vw, 100px" />Domaine le Sang de Cailloux</a></h3>
<h5>AOC Vacqueyras, outside of Sarrians</h5>
Owner/winemaker Serge Ferigoule, like Marcel Richaud in Cairanne, was one of the three determined men to bring Vacqueyras into Cru status in 1990.
His famous moustache is known for miles, as are his wines. He and his children make two reds and one white. Most of his soil is clay and limestone and they work biodynamically.
Winery includes tasting room.
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<h3><a href="http://www.coteaux-des-travers.com/index.php/en" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Domaine Coteaux des Travers</a></h3>
<h5><img loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-33248" src="http://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Best-Rhone-Valley-Wines-Travers.jpg" width="300" height="237" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Best-Rhone-Valley-Wines-Travers.jpg 400w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Best-Rhone-Valley-Wines-Travers-380x300.jpg 380w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />AOC Rasteau</h5>
Owner/winemaker Robert Charvin is the former president of the AOC Rasteau. His passion and patience has helped this brilliant, but not well known appellation gain notoriety.
He has blue clay and limestone soils and he works biodynamically. He makes deep, fruity reds and some very tasty sweet VDN (fortified) wines. This Appellation is allowed to make this style of wine and its’ a very small production, but wonderful for certain dishes.
Winery includes tasting room.

The 9 Best Wines of the Côtes du Rhône

Hanoi

<h2>The Youth Movement</h2>
<h3><a href="https://legout-degia.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" class="size-medium wp-image-52050 alignright" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/Le-Gout-de-Gia-240x300.jpeg" alt="" width="240" height="300" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/Le-Gout-de-Gia-240x300.jpeg 240w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/Le-Gout-de-Gia-480x600.jpeg 480w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/Le-Gout-de-Gia-768x960.jpeg 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/Le-Gout-de-Gia-1229x1536.jpeg 1229w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/Le-Gout-de-Gia.jpeg 1440w" sizes="(max-width: 240px) 100vw, 240px" />Le Goût de Gia</a></h3>
Le Goût de Gia is the gastronomic creation of three young Vietnamese: a sommelier, a chef, and a restaurant manager, each of whom gained extensive experience in high-end restaurants abroad and in Vietnam before founding this elegant, refined fusion offering that has broadened the rich palette of dining options in Hanoi. With a focus on organic ingredients and bio-dynamic wines, the eclectic dishes at Le Goût de Gia have something for all tastes, vaulting it quickly into our list of favourites.
<h2>The Wild Card – Street Style</h2>
<h3>Quan An Ngon</h3>
This one will be a bit of a wild card. Quan An Ngon is, to me, the best way to experience street food without being on the street. If you want to be in one place where you can try all sorts of delicious and wonderfully varied local cuisine then this is your spot. Whenever I choose to go here I am never disappointed.
I walk into the large courtyard-type atmosphere full of locals and the odd back-packer and I slowly take in the scene to realize that now, after all of these years of coming in and out of Vietnam—to a foreign country with a language that still beguiles me and ingredients that in my childhood would look like something out of a Doctor Seuss book and a pace that can feel frantic and elegant all at the same time—it feels like home. To get close, or at least within proximity, of all of my feelings above, head to 18 Phan Boi Chau Street, Hoan Kiem District.
<h2>Capital Cafes</h2>
Vietnam is the second-largest producer of coffee in the world, and every Vietnamese city, town and hamlet boasts numerous relaxing cafes, where locals trade morning gossip or relax in the shade during the afternoon heat. We’d be remiss if we didn’t include some of our favourite cafes on the list. Among the many, many worthy choices in Hanoi, here are some of our favourites:
<h3><a href="https://www.facebook.com/rengrengcafe" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reng Reng</a> </h3>
For coffee connoisseurs, this is the place to go! Much of Vietnam’s coffee is Robusta, but there are Arabica producers north of Hanoi. Reng Reng serves only this fine Vietnamese Arabica coffee with just a few variations. What more could you want, after all? As a bonus, the walk through the old quarter to the alleyway coffee shop is a joyful stimulant in itself. Sit in the minimalist second-floor room, look out on the local life, and savour that fragrance. Do one thing, and do it well; that’s the Reng Reng philosophy!
<h3><a href="https://goo.gl/maps/bMm4y9yFkgtbi8n58" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Đinh Cafe</a></h3>
Enter this old-style café via a deep, narrow alleyway and set of stairs. The interior looks like it hasn’t been remodeled in decades, and in this case, that’s the whole point. If you go early, you can be there among the locals and enjoy the view of Hoan Kiem Lake and the Temple of the Jade Mountain. The menu includes regular coffees, egg coffee (a Hanoi specialty first concocted by a resourceful bartender in the 1940s at the B&amp;R stalwart Metropole Hotel), as well as refreshing smoothies and fruit juices.
<h3><a href="https://www.facebook.com/cafephocohanggai" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" class="size-medium wp-image-51630 alignright" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/cafe-pho-co-400x300.jpeg" alt="" width="400" height="300" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/cafe-pho-co-400x300.jpeg 400w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/cafe-pho-co-800x600.jpeg 800w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/cafe-pho-co-768x576.jpeg 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/cafe-pho-co.jpeg 1440w" sizes="(max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px" />Café Phố Cố</a> </h3>
Like Dinh Café above, this is an immersive atmosphere, but a completely different one: Café Pho Co is beautifully decorated as a classic upper-class home, with immaculate furnishings and artwork throughout. This is another option for a variety of drinks (including egg coffee) right near Hoan Kiem Lake. Three levels of seating areas, including the rooftop, overlook the airy courtyard full of bright flowers. 
&nbsp;

<h2>The Contemporary &amp; Family Friendly</h2>
<h3><a href="http://pizza4ps.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Pizza 4p&#8217;s</a></h3>
<figure id="attachment_32513" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-32513" style="width: 451px" class="wp-caption alignright"><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-32513 size-medium" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/pizza-4ps-451x300.jpg" alt="Best Restaurants in Hanoi" width="451" height="300" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/pizza-4ps-451x300.jpg 451w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/pizza-4ps.jpg 752w" sizes="(max-width: 451px) 100vw, 451px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-32513" class="wp-caption-text">Homemade cheese from dairy cows in the highlands</figcaption></figure>
No matter where I travel there is always one day in a week when I am overcome with a need for good pizza. And I am not talking about throwing processed cheese onto some dough and tossing it mindlessly into a fire! No, I am talking about Pizza: traditional Italian pizza that is usually only found in Italy proper. Luckily, there are, in my opinion, more and more places throughout the world that are no longer satisfied with presenting the poorer cousin to pizza, the international imitator, as I call it. Pizza 4p’s in Hanoi would make an old man with white hair and a curled mustache in Naples proud.
Located at 24 Lý Quốc Sư, Hàng Trống, Hoàn Kiếm, Pizza 4p’s makes its own cheese using dairy cows that graze in the highlands around Dalat. Focusing on the freshest local ingredients, each pizza tastes like it has been made with love and care and extreme attention to ratios. My favourite (if you’re looking for suggestions) is the Shrimp Mayo pizza on half and the four cheeses on the other. Then, I take the spicy oil and pour it onto my pizza (careful, it is quite spicy). I follow this with a sip of Chianti and this, my friends, I promise you, is a satisfying night out!
<h2>The Lake View</h2>
<h3><a href="http://www.caugorestaurant.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Cau Go</a></h3>
Situated on the sixth floor overlooking the watery oasis of Hoàn Kiem lake, you&#8217;ll be rewarded with sweeping views of Hanoi at Cau Go. Located in the old quarter, its interior gives off an eclectic French Colonial vibe without trying too hard to be fussy. Currently, their menu is restricted to Vietnamese hot pot (lẩu) due to renovations. However, this should change soon! Drinks, snacks, and entrees are served daily from 10 a.m. If you can, request an outdoor table for a lovely patio view of Turtle Tower and Hanoi’s glittering lakeside.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-36101 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/Cau-Go-Restaurant-Hanoi-Lake-732px-compressed.png" alt="Best Restaurants in Hanoi" width="732" height="436" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/Cau-Go-Restaurant-Hanoi-Lake-732px-compressed.png 732w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/Cau-Go-Restaurant-Hanoi-Lake-732px-compressed-480x286.png 480w" sizes="(max-width: 732px) 100vw, 732px" />
<h2>The Authentic</h2>
<h3>Pho Thin</h3>
When I want pho, I also want what comes with pho. I want the shared tables and the loud crowds, the chopsticks on the tables and the bowls of chillies and limes and the fish sauce that came from an old family recipe passed down from generation to generation.  I want to hear slurping, and laughing and children, and I want my shoulders to be side by side with a local as we lean forward and savour our bowls noodle at a time.  I want to make conspiratorial eye contact with the old woman across the table as I bring the bowl up to my mouth at the completion of the noodles and drink the remaining broth.  Located on 13 Lo Duc, Hai Ba Trung District, Hanoi 10000, Vietnam.  Come here for the Pho and leave a changed person….or at least a satiated one!

<h2>The Colonial</h2>
<h3><a href="http://www.sofitel.com/gb/hotel-1555-sofitel-legend-metropole-hanoi/index.shtml" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Bamboo Bar at the Sofitel Metropole</a></h3>
<img loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-32522 size-medium" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/bamboo-bar-sofitel-legend-450x300.jpg" alt="Best Restaurants in Hanoi" width="450" height="300" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/bamboo-bar-sofitel-legend-450x300.jpg 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/bamboo-bar-sofitel-legend.jpg 550w" sizes="(max-width: 450px) 100vw, 450px" />Sometimes the colonial vibe of the city is so strong that I am pulled without choice towards the epicentre of it all—the Bamboo Bar at the Sofitel Metropole. This bar to me sums up colonial elegance and makes me feel like I am someone a little more important than I am, a little more attractive, a little worldlier.
Poolside, I usually order some light tapas off the bar menu which includes popcorn shrimp served with a spicy red chilli dipping sauce, some crudities and a cheese plate full of French cheeses that are just sharp enough to force me to follow my martini with a glass of rich French red wine. I like this bar. I like this bar a lot.

Insider's Guide: The Best Restaurants in Hanoi

Features &amp; Stories

Chef Q&amp;A

Thailand

In your book, Hot Sour Salty Sweet, you explore the cuisine in multiple countries along the Mekong River and recognize that the flavours and tastes from the surrounding countries were all closely related. How does Northern Thai cuisine differentiate itself from the rest?
In one region you can find the food of another, but they all have very distinct cuisines.
Northern Thailand has strong regional traditions and very intense flavours. There’s a pushiness and intensity of the flavours and spices that you don’t find in other regions.
In Northern Thai cuisine many things are steamed to cook and the grill is primarily used to flavour dishes. Chilies, garlic and shallots are all grilled first, then combined into a sauce or salsa, similarly to how it’s done in Mexico.
Since the grill is used to flavour, they grill over charcoal to create these lovely and intense sauces, like nam prik pao, for example.
Your latest cookbook on Persian cuisine focuses on a number of countries including Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Iran and Kurdistan. Can you define this cuisine and how it differs from Thai cuisine?
The food in the Persian culinary region is representative of more temperament climate conditions. They use nuts more, to give meaning to food through the sauces.
There is much less fish in the culinary world of the Caucasus Mountains, and fruit plays a big role in the culinary flavours. In Thailand, the focus is more on bitter and aromatic leaves. In the Persian region, they use tart fruits and fresh herbs, because of the desert and drier climate in places like Southern Iran.
Similar to Thailand, rice is a big part of the cuisine. It differs in many ways though. In Thailand and most of Southeast Asia, jasmine rice is served as bread, used to balance out dishes and accompany the strong flavours of the main dish.
In Persian culinary tradition, basmati rice is important and flavoured while it cooks with salt and seasoning. They typically use flatbread as their plain dish to be served alongside strong flavours.
What’s your best advice for getting past the fear travellers sometimes have of eating in markets. It can be an overwhelming place, so how does one start?
<img loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-32391 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/Thai-Market.png" alt="thai-market" width="350" height="234" />There are typically a few reasons people struggle with eating in markets; the concern for cleanliness and the overwhelming variety of choices.
Generally, in Thailand, there is a huge emphasis on cleanliness. There’s plenty of water in Thailand and the locals are known for showering to refresh themselves from the heat multiple times a day!
Many times I’ve entered friends’ homes and they ask if I’d like to refresh myself with a shower. It also helps to rest your body temperature.
This emphasis on cleanliness means that you don’t smell rotting fish in the markets, and the clean-up is so thorough that when they’re done for the day you can’t even tell there was a market there! This is especially impressive given the tropical climate.
Addressing the amount of choice, I’d recommend you don’t bother trying things you know you don’t like and don’t waste any eating opportunity on a western dish you could get back home. It’s important to try the local cuisine to help get an appreciation for the region and a true sense of the food landscape.
When travelling from Northern Vietnam to Southern Vietnam, the classic Vietnamese Pho dish changes along the way. What dishes change in a similar fashion from Myanmar into Chiang Mai? Is there a specific dish travellers should look for?
<img loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-32393 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/Khao-soi.png" alt="khao-soi" width="350" height="263" />Khao soi (see recipe, below) is a dish widely served in Northern Thailand that is Burmese-influenced. It’s similar to Ohno khao swe, the Burmese noodle dish that is also a coconut milk-based dish.
These dishes are very different but are related, as you can even see by their names. Also, generally, there is much less chilli heat used in Myanmar than in Northern Thailand so most dishes are different for that reason.
How do you think food helps one understand a place?
I’ve always seen the world through food, it’s the best window into a culture. I love taking groups into a region and focusing not on hands-on cooking but on seeing the world through food.
If you had one tip for travellers heading into the region, what would it be?
What’s most important is that you look at a topographic map to get an understanding of where you’re going.
Look at the mountains. Acknowledge where the Burma border lies. Observe where the Mekong winds.
In Chiang Mai, you’re at a meeting place of cultures, where the lowlands meet the mountains. From town, you can see the hills, and it’s remarkable to think that Myanmar is just across the mountains.
It may seem close, but back in the day, those were very hard to cross. When you travel by plane sometimes you forget where you are and how you got there.
Understanding by taking the time to look at a map beforehand will leave you with a real appreciation for the region and a sense of wonder to see where you are in relation to the rest of Southeast Asia.
Editor&#8217;s Note: Naomi was kind enough to share the below recipe and excerpt from her book, <a href="http://www.longitudebooks.com/find/p/104862/mcms.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Hot Sour Salty Sweet</a>, coauthored with Jeffrey Alford.

<h2>Recipe: Chiang Mai Curry Noodles</h2>
<img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-32395 size-medium alignright" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/Chiang-Mai-Curry-339x300.jpg" alt="" width="339" height="300" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/Chiang-Mai-Curry-339x300.jpg 339w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/Chiang-Mai-Curry-768x681.jpg 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/Chiang-Mai-Curry-677x600.jpg 677w" sizes="(max-width: 339px) 100vw, 339px" />
We&#8217;re told by friends in Chiang Mai, Thailand&#8217;s northern capital, that this noodle dish is originally from the Shan State of Burma; others say it came with Muslim traders from Yunnan.
Whatever the story, khao soi is now known as a Chiang Mai specialty. It&#8217;s an easy-to-make, very rich and delicious one-dish meal.
The broth that bathes the noodles is flavoured with a little curry paste, turmeric, and garlic and is smooth and thick with coconut milk. Traditionally khao soi is made, as it is here, with beef; you can also make it with chicken.
The recipe calls for Chinese egg noodles, available from most Chinese groceries. They come in one-pound packages and are about linguine width and pale yellow. The cooked noodles are placed in large individual bowls and the curry sauce is poured over them when the dish is served.
Khao soi is usually topped with a small nest of crispy noodles, egg noodles that have been briefly deep-fried; they add a delightful contrasting texture. There is a small array of condiments traditionally served with khao soi; don&#8217;t worry if you don&#8217;t have pickled cabbage.
<h3>Khao soi &#8211; Northern Thailand</h3>
<h5>Serves 4</h5>
<h5>Ingredients:</h5>
2 to 3 cloves garlic, peeled 
1-inch piece fresh turmeric, minced, or 1 teaspoon ground turmeric 
1 teaspoon salt, plus a pinch 
1 tablespoon Red Curry Paste (page 210 or store-bought) 
1 tablespoon peanut or vegetable oil 
3 cups canned or fresh coconut milk, with 2 cup of the thickest milk set aside 
2 pound boneless flavorful beef (sirloin tip or trimmed stewing beef), cut into 2-inch chunks 
1 tablespoon sugar 
1 cup water 
3 tablespoons Thai fish sauce 
1 tablespoon fresh lime juice 
Peanut oil for deep-frying noodles (optional) 
1 pound Chinese egg noodles (bamee)
<h5>Toppings &amp; Condiments</h5>
Fried noodle nests (optional; see below) 
2 cup coarsely chopped shallots 
2 cup minced scallions 
2 cup Pickled Cabbage, Thai Style 
1 lime, cut into wedges
<h5>Directions:</h5>
Place the garlic in a mortar with the turmeric and the pinch of salt and pound to a paste. Alternatively, finely mince the garlic and whole turmeric, if using, and place the garlic and turmeric in a small bowl with a pinch of salt.
Stir in the red curry paste and set aside.
Place a large heavy pot or wok over high heat.
Add the 1 tablespoon oil and, when it is hot, toss in the curry paste mixture.
Stir-fry for 3 seconds, then add the reserved 1/2 cup thick coconut milk and lower the heat to medium-high.
Add the meat and sugar and cook, stirring frequently, for 4 to 5 minutes, until the meat has 
changed colour all over.
Add the remaining 1/2 cups coconut milk, the water, fish sauce, and the remaining 1 teaspoon salt and bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium and cook at a strong simmer 
for about 10 minutes.
Remove from the heat and stir in the lime juice. (The soup can be prepared up to an hour ahead, then reheated just before serving.)
Meanwhile, make the optional crispy noodles:
Place a plate lined with several layers of paper towels by your stove. Place a large wok or heavy pot over high heat and add about 1 cup peanut oil.
When the oil is hot, drop in a strand of uncooked noodles to test the temperature. It should sizzle slightly as it falls to the bottom, then immediately puff and rise to the surface; adjust the heat slightly, if necessary.
Toss a handful (about 1 cup) of noodles into the oil and watch as they puff up. Use a spatula or long tongs to turn them over and expose all of them to the hot oil. They will crisp up very quickly, in less than 1 minute.
Lift the crisped noodles out of the oil and place on the paper towel-lined plate. Give the oil a moment to come back to temperature, and then repeat with a second handful of noodles. (The noodles can be fried ahead and left standing for several hours.)
To serve, bring a large pot of water to a vigorous boil over high heat. Drop in the remaining noodles (or all noodles, if you didn&#8217;t make crispy noodles), bring back to a boil, and cook until tender but not mushy, about 6 minutes. Drain well.
Divide the drained noodles among four large bowls. Ladle over the broth and meat. Top with crispy noodles, if you have them, and a pinch each of shallots and scallions.
Serve with the remaining condiments set out in small bowls so guests can garnish their soup as they wish. Provide each guest with chopsticks and a large spoon.
<hr />
Excerpted from Hot Sour Salty Sweet by Jeffrey Alford and Naomi Duguid. Copyright © 2000 Jeffrey Alford and Naomi Duguid. Excerpted with permission from Random House Canada, an imprint of RH Canadian Publishing., a division of Penguin Random House of Canada Limited. All Rights Reserved.

Taste Your Way Through Thailand: An Interview with Author Naomi Duguid

Maido

Mitsuharu Tsumura

Peru

<h5>Starting From the Bottom</h5>
In Peru, Mitsuharu was an up and coming young chef with a fancy degree from America. In Japan, he was an unknown entity with no local experience to speak of.
<img loading="lazy" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-31832" src="http://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Maido-Mitsuharu-Tsumura-dishes-320x300.jpg" alt="maido-mitsuharu-tsumura-dishes" width="320" height="300" />But if nothing else – and there was, truly, nothing else – he had a connection. His grandparents, who still lived in Japan, introduced him to a man named Mr. Hirai, the owner of a well known restaurant called Seto Sushi.
After watching him filet fish, Mr. Hirai agreed to give Mitsuharu a job. The pay was nonexistent and the work gruelling. It was a start.
For four months Mitsuharu showed up everyday to wash dishes, never so much as touching a knife. After establishing himself as a competent dishwasher, he was elevated to the post of knife sharpener. Eventually he became proficient enough to sharpen knives for every chef in the restaurant, a huge honour by the standards of Japanese restaurants.
Though he was still miles away from being able to prepare food for the restaurant, in Japan everything has a purpose. While he wasn’t yet making sushi, he was watching, observing the masters, and learning patience and discipline. It was a quintessentially Japanese apprenticeship.
<h5><img loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-31836" src="http://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Maido-Mitsuharu-Tsumura-knife.jpg" alt="maido-mitsuharu-tsumura-knife" width="350" height="236" />Working His Way Up</h5>
Around this time, he started practicing his own knife skills. To master the fine art of sushi making he would practice on rice and gherkins, preparing thousands of them to hone his skills.
He continued to work his way up the ladder at Seto, taking over responsibility for receiving and cleaning seafood. This eventually led to filleting and preparing fish, cooking rice for the staff’s meals and working behind the bar, until one day, two years after arriving in Japan, he had finally earned his keep.
Mitsuharu began to make sushi.
<hr />
<h2>Pulled Back to Peru</h2>
<img loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-31838" src="http://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Maido-Mitsuharu-Tsumura-dish.jpg" alt="maido-mitsuharu-tsumura-dish" width="350" height="236" />He stayed in Japan for eight more months perfecting his craft until one day Mitsuharu felt the pull of his native Peru beckoning him back home.
The Sheraton Lima, where he had interned years ago, invited him to return as a member of their chef team, where he began his journey up the hotel’s ranks.
And now here he was, three years after returning to Peru and on the precipice of the hotel’s highest position, feeling conflicted.
<figure id="attachment_31839" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-31839" style="width: 275px" class="wp-caption alignright"><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-31839" src="http://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Maido-Mitsuharu-Tsumura-exterior.jpg" alt="Maido" width="275" height="412" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Maido-Mitsuharu-Tsumura-exterior.jpg 275w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Maido-Mitsuharu-Tsumura-exterior-200x300.jpg 200w" sizes="(max-width: 275px) 100vw, 275px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-31839" class="wp-caption-text">Maido</figcaption></figure>
<h5>A Conundrum Turned Culmination</h5>
Again he turned to his father for advice and again his father was stern and resolute – but this time, he had very different advice for his son.
“Son, you have proved to be a good worker and I am going to invest in you,” he said. “Open your restaurant, I will support you.”
Today that restaurant is <a href="http://www.maido.pe/en/index.php" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Maido</a>, where Mitsuhara draws from his experience and heritage to prepare Japanese and Peruvian dishes, telling a story with each plate he serves.
In 2016, Mitsuhara and Maido landed at <a href="http://www.theworlds50best.com/list/1-50-winners/Maido" target="_blank" rel="noopener">number 13</a> on the coveted World’s 50 Best Restaurants list (<a href="http://www.theworlds50best.com/latinamerica/en/the-list.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">and number 2 in Latin America</a>), winning the <a href="http://www.theworlds50best.com/awards/highest-climber-sponsored-by-lavazza" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Highest Climber Award</a> in the process.
He’s come a long way since that conundrum.
<hr />
<h2>Prime Your Peruvian Palate</h2>
Fortunately, you don&#8217;t need to spend two years apprenticing at a Japanese sushi restaurant to develop a taste for Mitsuhara&#8217;s cooking.
He&#8217;s generously provided us with the below recipe for Amazonic Beans, which you can try preparing at home.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-31841" src="http://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Maido-Mitsuharu-Tsumura-beans.jpg" alt="maido-mitsuharu-tsumura-beans" width="752" height="452" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Maido-Mitsuharu-Tsumura-beans.jpg 752w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Maido-Mitsuharu-Tsumura-beans-480x289.jpg 480w" sizes="(max-width: 752px) 100vw, 752px" />
<h3>Amazonic Beans</h3>
Serves 4
<h4>Ingredients</h4>
<h5>For beans:</h5>
Avocado Cream 60 gr (RB) 
Sauteed beans 60 gr (RB) 
Sweet Quince 12 cubed 
Grain Soil 8 gr (RB) 
Ponzu gel 4 gr (RB) 
Crispy Quinoa 12 units (RB) 
Sprouts and flowers
<h5>For avocado cream:</h5>
1 Clean avocado 
Dashi 80 ml (RB) 
Cilantro 8 gr 
Salt 4 gr 
Juice of 3 lemons
<h5>For Dashi (1/2 litre):</h5>
1/2 Lt. Water 
6 gr Kombu 
10 gr Katsuobushi
<h5>For sauteed beans:</h5>
Regional cooked beans 60gr 
Or any beans you like. 
Chopped red onion inbrunoise 8gr 
Chopped garlic in brunoise 4 gr 
Chopped ginger 4 gr 
Sesame oil 20 ml 
Salt 
Pepper
<h5>For the Sweet Quince:</h5>
Quince 200 gr 
White sugar 100 gr 
Cinnamon 2 gr 
Water 200 ml
<h5>For the Grain Soil:</h5>
Ground coffee 35 gr 
Honey 50 gr 
flour 20 gr 
Unsalted butter 15 gr
<h5>Ponzu Gel (250 gr):</h5>
Ponzu 250 ml 
Xantana 2 gr
Crispy Quinoa (20 units ) 
Black Quinoa 50 gr
<h4>Instructions</h4>
<h5>For Avocado Cream:</h5>
In a blender add all the ingredients and process until you get a smooth cream. Reserve cold.
<h5>For Dashi:</h5>
Hydrate the kombu in water for 12 hours. In a saucepan place the water with kombu to medium heat until it reaches 80 degrees C° and after reaching this temperature add the katsuobushi and put out the fire. Leave to infuse for 20 minutes with the lid on. After 20 minutes, strain with a thin gauze to prevent remains.
<h5>For Sauteed Beans:</h5>
In a pan saute the garlic with the onion, the ginger and the cooked beans for about 2 minutes and season with salt and pepper, add the sesame oil and put out the fire. Reserve cold.
<h5>For the Sweet Quince:</h5>
Clean the quince and cut into 1-cm cubes, with the excess of quince make an infusion with cinnamon and reserve. In a pan make a syrup with water and sugar and add the cubes of quince with the previous infusion and cook for 3 minutes. Reserve cold.
<h5>For the Grain Soil:</h5>
Temper the butter. Crush the Chulpi corn until obtain a kind of coarse ground. In a bowl mix all ingredients until you have a kind of dough. Spread the dough on a plate and bake at 150 degrees C. for 10 minutes. Remove, let cool and keep in a sealed container.
<h5>For the Ponzu gel:</h5>
With a mixer blend the ingredients until the Ponzu take gel texture. Reserve cold.
<h5>For the Crispy Quinoa:</h5>
In a blender place the Quinoa with little water and blend until completely ground, place the mixture in a pan and cook for 10 minutes over medium heat. Roll out the mixture on a Silpat , try to stretch as thin as possible and bake at 120 degrees for approximately 30 minutes. Reserve in a dry place.
In a cold dish place as a base a line of avocado cream. On top of the avocado cream place the sauteed beans simulating a kind of garden. Embed the crispy quinoa on the avocado and placed the quince´s cubes. Finish the plating putting Ponzu gel drops and grain soil and decorate with flowers and sprouts.
Serve cold.

At Lima's Maido Restaurant, a Nikkei with a Knife – and a Vision

Laos

<h3>The Pizza Place</h3>
<h3>Pizza Phan Luang</h3>
Pizza. Do I need to say more? This little pizza restaurant is located across the Nam Khan River and in the back courtyard on a residential street.  The first time I went looking for it, after a serendipitous tip from an old friend, I was on a street thinking I was completely lost and then there it was like an oasis: a tiny sign adorned with a picture of a pizza pie entreating me down a narrow path to the right of an un-lit house.  (I took the path, possibly less travelled, and to this day I am so glad I did.)  This restaurant is owned by a French Canadian man and his Laotian wife. He is both the chef and the waiter, so don’t be surprised if there is a bit of a wait. I can, however, vouch that it is well worth both the effort to find this place and the likely wait to get your pizza. The ingredients are super fresh and the dough a delicious mix of soft and crisp with a light dusting of flour. Voila!
<h2>The Real Deal &#8211; Lao-style BBQ Restaurant</h2>
<h3><a href="https://dyensabairestaurant.wordpress.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Dyen Sabai </a></h3>
<img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-32694 size-medium alignright" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/dyensabai-195x300.png" alt="" width="195" height="300" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/dyensabai-195x300.png 195w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/dyensabai.png 260w" sizes="(max-width: 195px) 100vw, 195px" />When I travel I often make choices that I wouldn’t necessarily make if not travelling&#8230; I think we have all bought that ridiculous pair of pants that is so not us but we were compelled to make the purchase on trip nonetheless because our surroundings gave us the illusion that we were now the type of person who wears pants with elephants all over them and maybe even tie dye! This is what I now refer to as the exotic effect.
Being in a new place so totally different from where you hail from can act to reset your compass just enough to make you open up to a new definition of what you do and do not do, eat, try, wear, etc.  This is all to preface one of my favourite ‘adventurous-eater’ spots: Dyen Sabai.  This is one great Lao-style BBQ restaurant that is a must stop if you have a few days in town and a new sense of self!  This place has the most laid back approach to dining as the seating is largely reclined and the views look out over the Nam Khan River.  This place makes me feel fresh and as if I could redefine my whole self…or just eat a damn good meal on the banks of a stunning river. Not a bad endeavour either way.
<h2>The Educational Meal &#8211; a Cooking School</h2>
<h3><a href="http://www.tamarindlaos.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Tamarind</a></h3>
This is a cooking school and restaurant that in my opinion does the best job at leading you through local cuisine in an uncomplicated, un-intimidating way.  Each dish is presented by one of the staff and the history of the dish is explained, as well as the proper way to eat it.  I love being educated about local customs and food, so this place holds a special place in my heart for helping me understand Laos a bit better, not to mention the fact that it is delicious.  My favorite drink on the menu is a banana, coconut, cinnamon smoothie and my favorite thing to order is a Mung platter full of things like smoked eggplant, lemongrass, rice noodles, and river weeds…trust me—It’s delicious!!

Vines 101

Portugal

<h2>Different Types of Portuguese Wine</h2>
Now that we&#8217;ve established Portuguese wine&#8217;s place in the wine world, let&#8217;s move on to some important facts about the types of vines planted in the country, the main grapes used for production and the recognized appellations.
<h3>The Reds</h3>
<figure id="attachment_31243" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-31243" style="width: 300px" class="wp-caption alignright"><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-31243" src="http://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Portuguese-wine-Alfrocheiro.jpg" alt="Portuguese-wine-Alfrocheiro" width="300" height="181" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-31243" class="wp-caption-text">The Alfrocheiro grape and leaf</figcaption></figure>
Alfrocheiro: Used more in Alentejo and Dão, this grape adapts quite well throughout the country’s climate and is becoming more and more popular in recent plantations. Alfrocheiro wines are characterized by fine aromas of red fruits and wild floral hints. Very balanced when it comes to tannins, alcohol and acidity levels.
Alicante Bouschet: Originally a French grape variety, this grape is characterized by its intense colour. Its resistance to warm weather is the reason why we can see it abundantly being used in the Alentejo region.
<img loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-31245 size-medium" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Portuguese-wine-Touriga-Nacional-133x300.jpg" alt="Portuguese-wine-Touriga-Nacional" width="133" height="300" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Portuguese-wine-Touriga-Nacional-133x300.jpg 133w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Portuguese-wine-Touriga-Nacional-267x600.jpg 267w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Portuguese-wine-Touriga-Nacional.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 133px) 100vw, 133px" />
Tinta Barroca: Mostly used in the Douro region, its resistance to plagues and infections makes it popular, as it requires less attention. It produces soft and easy-drinking wines with higher alcoholic content.
Tinta Roriz (Aragonez): This grape has a higher sensitivity to rain. It offers good potential for ageing and its wines are normally characterized by its strong tannins and hints of red fruits like plums and cherries.
Tinto Cão: One of the main five grape varieties used in the Douro region, this grape presents better yields and flavour when planted in non-fertile soil. Strong, solid tannins and high acidity levels offer the producer a good potential for ageing.
Touriga Franca: This one gains its recognition mainly in Douro wines (DOC and Ports). Its average yield produces high-quality wines with intense aromas and strong, solid tannins, but smooth in taste.
Touriga Nacional: I dare say it’s the grape variety present in some of the best wines the country has to offer. Originally giving us the best Dão wines, it is in Douro and Alentejo where it’s used in more monovarietal productions. This grape produces very aromatic wines where velvet is the main note. It also offers soft and smooth tannins and good ageing potential.
<h3>The Whites</h3>
<figure id="attachment_31247" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-31247" style="width: 350px" class="wp-caption alignright"><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-31247" src="http://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Portuguese-wine-Alvarinho.jpg" alt="Portuguese-wine-Alvarinho" width="350" height="197" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-31247" class="wp-caption-text">Alvarinho</figcaption></figure>
Alvarinho: An Iberian grape variety with low yields and high resistance to fungus. Its main regions are the Minho River Valley and the Spanish Rias Baixas. Highly characterized by its strong acidity levels and strong citric aromas.
Antão Vaz: Considered by some to be the main white grape variety in Alentejo. Highly resistant to dry and warm climates. Presents intense citric and mineral aromas with a firm acidity level. The perfect choice for a warm summer day.
Arinto: Also known as Pedernã. It can be found in young wines and its light acidity and citric aromas make it a good companion on warm days.
Loureiro: Easily and most successfully found in the Vinho Verde region. (Despite the literal translation, please don’t refer to it as &#8220;Green Wine&#8221; as locals will not understand what you are talking about!) Intense aromas, citric and floral hints give place to fine wines. Will express itself better if planted in fertile soils with Atlantic influence.
Viosinho: Autochthonous from Douro and Tras-os-Montes, this grape variety tends to prefer wetter soils. It is also used as a blending variety in Port.
<h3>Fortified Wines</h3>
In these types of wines, we have a common characteristic: alcohol is added before the fermentation process ends, interrupting the sugar transformation into alcohol. These wines are characterized by their high levels of sugar and alcohol.
Port Wine: port is produced out of red and white grape varieties and it can be divided into two types of ageing.
Tawny: Aged in a barrel by oxidation. Tawnies are further divided into categories: Tawny Reserve, Tawny with age indication and Colheita (the latter being the best, in my opinion).
Ruby: Wine protected from oxidation. Rubies are divided into categories: Vintage Character, Late Bottle Vintage and Vintage (the latter also being known as the King of Ports).
<h3><img loading="lazy" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-31254" src="http://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Portuguese-wine-Sparkling-218x300.jpg" alt="Portuguese-wine-Sparkling" width="218" height="300" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Portuguese-wine-Sparkling-218x300.jpg 218w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Portuguese-wine-Sparkling.jpg 400w" sizes="(max-width: 218px) 100vw, 218px" />Sparkling Wines</h3>
Portugal produces white, red and rose sparkling wines. We can find quite decent sparkling wines throughout the country but it’s in Douro, Távora-Varosa and Bairrada where we can find the best examples.
My advice? Always order a Brut. In my opinion, it will be the variety that best reflects the quality of a good sparkling wine.
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<h2>Portuguese Soil and Climate</h2>
We can’t conclude a post about Portuguese wine without discussing terroir or climate!
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-31234" src="http://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Portuguese-wine-vines.jpg" alt="Portuguese-wine-vines" width="1200" height="650" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Portuguese-wine-vines.jpg 1200w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Portuguese-wine-vines-480x260.jpg 480w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Portuguese-wine-vines-768x416.jpg 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Portuguese-wine-vines-960x520.jpg 960w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" />
Shale, granite and chalk are among the main soil compositions throughout Portugal. Douro can be characterized by its shale and the Vinho Verde region by the granitic influence, while the Alentejo features a mixed soil type.
For such a small country, Portugal can offer a variety of different climates from North to South. The Portuguese take great pride in this variety, as it allows them to differentiate their wines from those produced in other countries.
With more than 250 varieties of grapes and a wide range of appellations, Portugal will almost certainly have a wine that suits your palate.

Vines 101: An Introduction to Portuguese Wine

Prague

Czech Republic

Cambodia

<h5></h5>
<h3><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-30569 size-medium alignright" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/Siem-Reap-Khmer-Kitchen-450x300.jpg" alt="" width="450" height="300" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/Siem-Reap-Khmer-Kitchen-450x300.jpg 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/Siem-Reap-Khmer-Kitchen.jpg 500w" sizes="(max-width: 450px) 100vw, 450px" /><a style="font-size: 16px;" href="http://www.khmerkitchens.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Khmer Kitchen</a></h3>
“Local” restaurants are a dime a dozen these days, but 15 years ago the Khemer Kitchen was the only game in town.
And ever since, it has remained a shining light of friendly service in a casual setting. You can leave your credit card at home, just be sure to come with at least ten dollars – you&#8217;ll likely spend less than that per person!
<h3><a href="https://www.thesugarpalm.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Sugar Palm</a></h3>
A traditional home-style comfort food spot that&#8217;s famous for it&#8217;s Amok.
They have a big menu with lots of vegetarian options and the food is great.
<h3><a href="http://www.chanreytree.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Chanrey Tree</a></h3>
Chanrey Tree has been around for a couple of years now and probably offers the best balance between fancy and good in town. They&#8217;re in a great location on the river and have terrific, friendly service.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-30574 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/Siem-Reap-Restaurants-Chanrey-Tree.jpg" alt="best restaurants in Siem Reap - Chanrey Tree" width="855" height="350" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/Siem-Reap-Restaurants-Chanrey-Tree.jpg 855w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/Siem-Reap-Restaurants-Chanrey-Tree-480x196.jpg 480w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/Siem-Reap-Restaurants-Chanrey-Tree-768x314.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 855px) 100vw, 855px" />
<h3><a href="http://www.cuisinewatdamnak.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Cuisine Wat Damnak</a></h3>
After many years of trying, I finally got to eat at the most famous game in town. And let me tell you, it was worth the wait – I will definitely be heading back.
Fantastic Cambodian food cooked by a top French chef and served by his lovely partner. The whole thing is set in a traditional Khmer home and it just works.
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-30575 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/Siem-Reap-Restaurants-Cuisine-Wat-Damnak.jpg" alt="best restaurants in Siem Reap - Cuisine Wat Damnak" width="750" height="495" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/Siem-Reap-Restaurants-Cuisine-Wat-Damnak.jpg 750w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/Siem-Reap-Restaurants-Cuisine-Wat-Damnak-455x300.jpg 455w" sizes="(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px" />
<h3><a href="https://www.spoonscambodia.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Spoons</a></h3>
<img loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-45125 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/spoons.jpg" alt="Best Restaurants in Siem Reap" width="380" height="253" />This special local restaurant not only serves delicious Cambodian food but is also driven by an important social purpose. Spoons is part of an organization that trains underserved young Cambodians for careers in hospitality. Yes, it&#8217;s a training restaurant, but under the tutelage of experts, they produce excellent cuisine!
Beneath a bamboo canopy, sample a wide array of Khmer dishes, including their scrumptious chicken wings with amok sauce!
<hr />
<h3>The Verdict</h3>
After sampling amok and many other tasty delicacies at (what I consider) to be the best restaurants in Siem Reap, I have to confess that for my money, the best dinner option in the city is the three-dollar (that&#8217;s right – three dollars!) curry from Khmer Kitchen.
Feeling inspired to taste your way through Siem Reap? Get inspired and start planning your trip with Nathan.

<h2>Reds</h2>
Using the pinot noir grape, here is a list of truly excellent red wines to be found in Burgundy:
<h3><a href="http://www.domaine-denis-mortet.fr/site/lang-pref/en" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Gevrey Chambertin 1er Cru Les Champeaux 2003 – Domaine Denis Mortet</a></h3>
Hands down, this is the best wine I’ve ever had the pleasure of drinking in my life! This wine is best offered and shared with very good friends—they’ll owe you one!
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-28256" src="http://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/Champeaux-inset.jpg" alt="Champeaux-inset" width="1200" height="650" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/Champeaux-inset.jpg 1200w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/Champeaux-inset-480x260.jpg 480w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/Champeaux-inset-768x416.jpg 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/Champeaux-inset-960x520.jpg 960w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" />
<h3><a href="http://www.dubuet-monthelie.fr/anglais/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Monthélie 1er Cru Les Champs Fulliot 2012 – Domaine Guy Dubuet &amp; Fils</a></h3>
The vineyard is now run by their son, David. This is to me what Burgundy is all about: simplicity, generosity, discretion, friendship… You have all of this in David’s bottles.
<img loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-28260 size-medium" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/1085211x-125x300.jpg" alt="Corton-Bressandes Grand Cru 2009 – Domaine Tollot Beault" width="125" height="300" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/1085211x-125x300.jpg 125w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/1085211x.jpg 225w" sizes="(max-width: 125px) 100vw, 125px" />
<h3><a href="https://www.burgundy-report.com/autumn-2006/domaine-tollot-beaut-a-profile/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Corton-Bressandes Grand Cru 2009 – Domaine Tollot Beault</a></h3>
It&#8217;s difficult to find the right word for this wine. I’ll start by saying it&#8217;s beautiful, sensitive, wild and delicate. Perhaps you will find some more words to add to the list when you enjoy your first sip?
<h3><a href="http://www.domaine-rousseau.com/en/domaine-armand-rousseau/our-history.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Chambertin 2005 – Domaine Armand Rousseau</a></h3>
This is the second-best wine I’ve drunk in my life… And believe it or not, I had some more than once and even own some myself! It isn’t cheap, but it is truly delicious.
<h3><a href="http://www.pasmarchand.com/en/content/home" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Bourgogne Pinot Noir “Avalon” 2011 – Domaine Pascal Marchand</a></h3>
This wine is made by an exceptional and legendary character of Burgundy, Pascal Marchand. This Pinot Noir is one of his simplest wines, but there is such a pleasure at each sip!
<h3><a href="http://www.domaine-comte-armand.com/index.php?l=2" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Pommard 1er Cru Clos des Epeneaux “Monopole” 2008 – Domaine du Comte Armand</a></h3>
This wine is the jewel in Benjamin Leroux’s crown! We wish the best to Paul Zinetti, the new “régisseur” of this prestigious vineyard.
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<h2>Wine From My Friends</h2>
I am lucky enough to have friends who make wine here in Burgundy. I not only love them for who they are but also for the wines they make. Here is my selection:
<h3><a href="http://www.bordeauxwinenews.com/blog/waiting-for-gevrey-chambertin-2012very-much-worth-it/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Gevrey Chambertin 2012 – Jane Eyre</a></h3>
Moving from her native Australia to try her hand at a wine harvest, Jane studied winemaking for 12 years. Her Gevrey Chambertin is elegant, delicious and utterly promising. Jane shares a winery with Dominique Lafon, so she is in good company. You can read all about Jane <a href="http://www.butterfield.com/blog/2013/09/10/experst-insiders-jane-eyre-renard/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>.
<h3><a href="http://www.butterfieldwine.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Meursault 2011 – David Butterfield</a></h3>
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-28265" src="http://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/Butterfield-Meursault.jpg" alt="Butterfield-Meursault" width="922" height="288" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/Butterfield-Meursault.jpg 922w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/Butterfield-Meursault-480x150.jpg 480w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/Butterfield-Meursault-768x240.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 922px) 100vw, 922px" />
Created by my good friend (and George and Martha Butterfield’s son) <a href="http://www.butterfield.com/blog/2013/10/22/qa-david-butterfield/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">David</a>, this elegant and pure white wine is perfectly paired with a Poulet de Bresse for Sunday lunch.
<h3><a href="http://www.domainenewman.com/english/contact.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Bonnes Mares Grand Cru 2010 – Domaine Newman</a></h3>
Chris Newman may be my friend, but he is also a highly esteemed winemaker. This wine is almost impossible to come by and is best drunk with Chris—tell him I sent you!
<h3><a href="http://www.hotel-fatien-beaune.com/en/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Domaine Maison Fatien Père &amp; Fils – Volnay 2010 (Rouge)</a></h3>
Charly pours all of his passion and energy into his wines, making for a truly charming find!

Eat & Drink

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