Dinnerwithtayo

Why New Orleans is the #1 Food City in the Country

When it comes to food, few cities in the United States can match the culinary offerings of New Orleans. From Creole classics to Cajun creations, the food scene in the Big Easy is one of the most vibrant and diverse in the country. It’s no surprise that it has been named the #1 food city in the country by numerous publications, including Zagat, Travel + Leisure, and Food & Wine. In this article, we’ll explore why New Orleans is the #1 food city in the country.

Before we start here’s a fun fact about this city. New Orleans has over 130 festivals a year, there’s a celebration for everything and everyone. Nothing beats walking around, sipping a nice cold “adult” beverage and randomly stumbling upon a celebration in the street.

Let’s get back to the main reason you are reading this article. I heard great things about the culinary scene in New Orleans, so I had the chance to experience this first hand. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking to experience the culture of the city, the culinary scene in New Orleans is not to be missed. Here are reasons why New Orleans makes a case for the #1 food city in the country.

  1. Cultural Heritage: New Orleans is a city with a rich cultural heritage, which is reflected in its cuisine. The city has a unique blend of African, French, Spanish, and Native American cultures, as well as its own Creole and Cajun cooking styles. This cultural diversity has resulted in a culinary scene that is unlike any other in the country.

  1. Fresh and Local Ingredients: One of the secrets to the success of the New Orleans culinary scene is the use of fresh and local ingredients. The city’s location near the Gulf of Mexico provides access to some of the freshest seafood in the world, and local farmers provide a wide variety of fresh produce. This focus on fresh and local ingredients ensures that the food in New Orleans is always of the highest quality.

  1. Iconic Dishes: New Orleans is home to several iconic dishes that have become synonymous with the city’s cuisine. Gumbo, jambalaya, and po’ boys are just a few of the dishes that have put New Orleans on the map as a food destination. These dishes are often imitated but never duplicated, as the authentic flavors of New Orleans cannot be replicated anywhere else.

  1. Flavors: What makes the flavors of New Orleans cuisine unique is the city’s diverse cultural heritage and its own Creole and Cajun cooking styles. The mix of cultural influences has resulted in a cuisine that is full of bold and flavorful tastes, with a focus on spices, seafood, and smoked meats. The use of ingredients like cayenne pepper, hot sauce, and paprika, adds a unique heat and depth to dishes like gumbo and jambalaya. The cuisine also incorporates fresh and local ingredients, giving the dishes a fresh and authentic taste. The use of smoky meats like Andouille sausage and Tasso ham, adds a rich and smoky flavor to dishes like red beans and rice. Overall, what makes the flavors of New Orleans cuisine unique is its blend of cultural influences, use of bold and flavorful ingredients, and focus on fresh and local ingredients.

  1. Diverse Dining Experience: New Orleans is a city renowned for its diverse dining experience, with a culinary scene that offers something for every taste and budget. From fine dining to casual street food, the city has a wide range of restaurants and eateries that showcase its unique blend of cultural influences. Visitors can enjoy authentic Creole and Cajun cuisine, as well as international cuisine like Vietnamese, Latin American, and Italian. The city also offers a variety of dining experiences, from elegant fine dining restaurants like Emeril’s to casual po’ boy shops and food trucks. Whether you’re in the mood for seafood, barbecue, or a classic New Orleans dish like gumbo or jambalaya, you’re sure to find it in the city. The diverse dining experience in New Orleans is one of the many reasons why the city is a must-visit destination for any food lover.

  1. Food Festivals: New Orleans is known for its food festivals, which attract food lovers from all over the world. These festivals offer the perfect opportunity to try a variety of New Orleans cuisine and experience the city’s vibrant culture. The New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival, for example, is a celebration of music and food, with over 70 food vendors serving up everything from gumbo to crawfish étouffée.

Here’s a list of restaurants I visited:

No trip to New Orleans is complete without a stop at Cafe Du Monde, the iconic cafe that has been serving beignets and coffee since 1862. Beignets are a type of French doughnut, made with deep-fried choux pastry and dusted with powdered sugar. At Cafe Du Monde, they’re served hot and fresh, alongside a cup of chicory coffee. Be prepared for long lines, but trust me, it’s worth the wait.

Additional recommendations: Explore garden district, enjoy the high energy and craziness of Bourbon Street. Visit Frenchmen Street at night, it’s not as crazy as Bourbon but if you start at Frenchmen you might some how end up on Bourbon. Enjoy the music, eat as much as your stomach allows you to because the food is that damn good, and have a cocktail (or two, or three…).

In conclusion, New Orleans is the #1 food city in the country because of its rich culinary history, use of fresh and local ingredients, iconic dishes, thriving restaurant scene, and food festivals. If you’re a foodie, a trip to New Orleans is a must-do, as the city’s culinary offerings are unmatched anywhere else in the country.


Tulum is One of Mexico’s Hottest Culinary Destination

Just about two hours south of Cancun, Tulum Mexico has become a destination hot spot for a lot of us. Tulum is famous for its soft white sandy beach, laid back vibes, evergreen scener, historic Mayan Ruins, history, and of course one of the most famous mansion in the world, Pablo Escobar’s mansion. I’ve had my eyes on this magical town for quite a while, so I decided to treat myself to experience this first hand. Outside of the natural wonders, beautiful beaches and historic sites that brings many tourism down, the one thing you hardly hear is the culinary scene in Tulum. A trip is not complete without a great list of places to dine at. With the help of some friends, doing my research, and visiting, I’ve put together a nice list of places you should stop by on your trip in Tulum. With all that being said, here are my recommendations of where to stay and places to dine at.

One of my favorite place of this entire trip is Cabanas Maalix. This is where I stayed at during my trip. It’s a perfect and peaceful place right on the beach with a beach bar and a mom-and-pop style restaurant or should I say kitchen. Everyone was super friendly and helpful throughout my stay! Not only did I have direct access to the beach from my room, but the beach was calm and clean. I even got to witness a turtle give birth right outside my room at night. The guys at the bar are awesome and always within reach for your needs. My room was clean, and they even provide a mosquito net around the bed, perfect for a beach escape. I was very thankful to have access to bikes throughout my stay. It gave me a chance to ride to the restaurants and other hotels nearby if I was looking things to do! Overall if you’re looking for an eco- friendly, quiet, and relaxing place, this is it! I can’t wait to come back and relax on the hammocks again! 

The quality of the food hands down amazing. Don’t expect a 5-star presentation but when it comes to flavor and taste, you are in for one in the books. When it comes to traveling, eating with the locals is of the coolest things to do. Cabanas Maalix gives you that welcome home experience. If you have time, I recommend you stop here for a drink, a meal or even just relaxing at the beach. 

Grab a drink and tacos at Loco Tulum. I highly recommend their red tuna tacos and you also get a free shot if you use their hashtag on a social post. 

Visit Pablo’s Escobar’s Mansion and have a nice dinner at Philosophy, one of the house restaurants at Casa Malca (Pablo’s mansion). The staff and hostess, Tania are very welcoming and nice. When it comes to the food, you have to try their Beet Risotto topped with the catch of the day. 

Have drinks at the I Scream bar it’s next to the gelato spot. You can’t go wrong here. The drinks are in expensive, outdoor sitting is available, the perfect place to enjoy yourself and meet other fellow travelers. The bartenders are absolutely fun to be around. They will get you drunk before you know it and I promise you, you will leave this place chanting I scream bar. #GoodTimes.

Having dinner at Gitano is a must. I highly recommend making reservations before hand because it does get very busy for dinner. You will enjoy a lovely dinner with live music playing in the background, while being immerse in the exotic tropical trees and laid back vibes of Tulum. This restaurant is perfect for couples, groups of friends and if you are like myself, that traveled alone, it’s great for a solo dinner. It’s hard to pick from the list of food options but the steak gets a two thumbs up from me. It’s a bit on the pricey side but it’s worth every dime.

Spend an afternoon having lunch at Be Tulum hotel and their beautiful beach side restaurant. Everything you can potential ask for, great food, ambiance, views and vibe, Be Tulum gives it to you. I recommend you try their shrimp pasta bowl. Absolutely delicious, flavorful and probably one of the best pasta dish I’ve had.

Additional recommendations:

Scuba Diving: La Calypos Dive Center

Amorino Gelato: Artisanal Italian Ice Cream in the Heart

Amorino Gelato is a delightful gelato shop located in Los Angeles, California. This artisanal gelato maker is inspired by traditional Italian techniques, but adds a modern twist to its creations. The shop is famous for its high-quality, authentic Italian gelato, which is made using only the freshest ingredients, including locally sourced milk and fruits.

One of the most popular offerings at Amorino Gelato is the Gelato Flower, which is a work of art in itself. The flower-shaped scoops of gelato are arranged in a cone, making for a visually stunning and delicious treat. The Gelato Flower is available in a variety of flavors, including classic favorites like vanilla and chocolate, as well as unique and creative flavors like caramel, pistachio, and passion fruit.

Another must-try item at Amorino Gelato is the gelato macaron sandwich, which features two delicate macaron cookies filled with creamy, delicious gelato. Customers can choose from a variety of flavors to create their perfect macaron sandwich.

The space is has a few tables and seats so it is great for small groups or dates. Depending on what time you go, you can expect to run into a line during busy hours. If you are smart like me, you will come during mid day when it’s not as busy and you can enjoy your gelato with the option to sit indoors or outdoors.

Overall, Amorino Gelato is a must-visit destination for anyone in the Los Angeles area who loves high-quality, artisanal gelato. With its beautiful Gelato Flowers and delicious macaron sandwiches, this gelato shop is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. So why not stop by Amorino Gelato and treat yourself to a delicious and unique dessert experience today?

Address:  9605 S Santa Monica Blvd Beverly Hills, CA 90210 | Tel: (424) 335-0317

How to Eat Your Way Through the City of Angels

When it comes to exploring and eating your way through Los Angeles, the city of angels offers a range of diverse places to dine at. From 5-star restaurants to food trucks, this city offers you many options for your buck. But how does a person know how to navigate their way through the Los Angeles dining scene?

Though there are numerous fantastic restaurants, bars and eateries around this large city, you may find yourself overwhelmed if you’re just trying to find a bite to eat. If that’s the case, then hopefully this list of Los Angeles food recommendations will be a perfect place to start! So, to save you the hassle of searching for places to eat in Los Angeles, I’ve narrowed your choices down to my favorite choices. This will leave both your heart and stomach full. Whether you’re looking to splash out on a high-end meal or make a way down to a food truck, I’ve got you covered with my list of the best places to eat in Los Angeles.

1. Brooklyn Ave Pizza Co.

Brooklyn Ave Pizza Co. is a must-visit pizza spot in Los Angeles. Located in the Boyle Heights neighborhood, this cozy little pizza joint serves up some of the best New York-style pizza in the city. The crust is crispy yet chewy, and the sauce is perfectly balanced with just the right amount of spices. Their toppings are fresh and flavorful, and their specialty pies are inventive and delicious. In addition to their pizza, Brooklyn Ave Pizza Co. also serves up some delicious appetizers and salads. The atmosphere is casual and inviting, and the staff is friendly and attentive. Overall, Brooklyn Ave Pizza Co. is a great spot for a casual dinner or a quick slice on the go. Highly recommended for pizza lovers in LA!

2. Jon and Vinny’s

Jon and Vinny’s is one of my favorite. This relaxed, modern diner for all-day, Italian-inspired cuisine is a must on places you have to dine at in LA. The restaurant has a casual atmosphere with both indoor and outdoor seating options. The menu is extensive with a variety of options for all tastes, and the portions are generous. The pizzas are cooked in a wood-fired oven and have a crispy crust with fresh toppings. The pastas are homemade and cooked al dente, and the sauces are flavorful and well-balanced. I recommend giving the spicy fusilli a try. The salads are fresh and innovative with a variety of textures and flavors. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, and the service is prompt. Overall, Jon and Vinny’s is a great spot for a relaxed and enjoyable meal with friends or family. Highly recommended for Italian food lovers in LA!

3. Osteria La Buca

Osteria La Buca is the go to neighborhood spot that you can always count on. Even if you don’t live nearby, it’s worth the drive. Everything is made from scratch, the best part is you don’t have to blow through your wallet to have a high quality meal. Their short-rib ravioli and pork meatballs were by far my two favorite dishes on the menu. I’m pretty sure everything else won’t disappoint. The wine list is extensive, with a great selection of Italian and Californian wines. Overall the experience and service here were great. I’ll definitely go back again to try out more of their menu. Side-note, street parking can be difficult in the area so I recommend car share service. 

4. Osteria Mamma

If you are looking for an old fashioned Italian restaurant, Osteria Mamma is the place to be. The menu is traditional Italian with a focus on homemade pasta dishes and Neapolitan-style pizzas. The pastas are cooked to perfection and the sauces are deliciously rich and flavorful. The beauty and exclusivity of this place is the kind of food they serve; you can find fresh pasta pretty much in all the Italian restaurants around LA but you can’t find great local home-style Italian food like Osteria Mamma. Everything is fresh, delicious and the great wine selection brings it all together. Let’s just say you can’t go wrong with freshly made pasta and a good glass of wine. The restaurant has a warm and inviting atmosphere with a small dining room that is decorated with vintage Italian posters and pictures. Overall, Osteria Mamma is a great spot for a cozy and delicious meal with friends or family.

5. The Girl and The Goat (Art District DTLA)

The Girl and The Goat is a trendy and upscale restaurant located in the art district of downtown Los Angeles. The restaurant has a sleek and modern design with a vibrant atmosphere. The menu is inspired by Asian and Californian cuisine, with a focus on small plates and shared dishes. The flavors are bold and creative, and the presentation is beautiful. Some of the standout dishes include the crispy pork belly, the wagyu beef skewers, and the roasted Brussels sprouts. The cocktails are also excellent and well-crafted, with a variety of interesting flavor combinations. The service is friendly and attentive, and the staff is knowledgeable about the menu and the wine list. Overall, The Girl and The Goat is a great spot for a special occasion, date night, or a night out with friends. Getting a reservation can be extremely difficult so I recommend booking one in advance or just grabbing a seat at the bar. So make sure to get a table and enjoy an incredible time at The Girl and The Goat! 

6. Yxta Cocina Mexicana

Yxta Cocina Mexicana is a vibrant and colorful Mexican restaurant located in the Arts District of Los Angeles that offers a modern twist to traditional Mexican cuisine using fresh, local and sustainable ingredients. The dishes are beautifully presented and bursting with flavor. Some of the standout dishes include the ceviche, the mole poblano, and the tacos al pastor. The margaritas are also excellent and well-crafted, with a variety of interesting flavors. The atmosphere is festive and inviting with a lively bar area and plenty of seating options both indoors and outdoor seating area. Perfect for enjoying a meal on a sunny day. Overall, Yxta Cocina Mexicana is a great spot for a fun and festive night out with friends or family. Highly recommended for those looking for delicious Mexican food with a modern twist. Overall, it’s definitely worth adding Yxta to your “must try” list. The food, drinks and overall dining experience here is great.

7. Blasteran

So happy to have discovered this gem! This restaurant is located in Beverly Hills and everything about gets a high rating from me. Blasteran offers a unique blend of classic American and Indonesian cuisine. The restaurant’s veggie-forward American menu is complemented by a selection of delicious Indonesian dishes, making for a fusion of flavors that is both exciting and satisfying. The ambiance at Blasteran is unfussy, with a relaxed and comfortable setting that makes it perfect for a casual night out. The menu features a range of creative and innovative dishes that are packed with flavor and made with high-quality, fresh ingredients. Some of the standout dishes include the tempeh curry, the sambal chicken wings, cowboy burger and the shrimp noodles. For dessert, YOU HAVE TO TRY the bread pudding banana French toast. You’ll thank me later.

The manager and staff make you feel right at home with their excellent service. Overall Blasteran offers it all from delicious food, great service and down to the curated playlist playing the right selection of top 40 to classic r&b. I highly recommend Blasteran for anyone looking for a unique and flavorful dining experience in Beverly Hills.

8. The Sunset Restaurant (Malibu)

The Sunset Restaurant is a stunning oceanfront restaurant located out in Malibu, California. The restaurant’s prime location offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the Malibu coastline, making it the perfect spot for any occasion. The menu at Sunset Restaurant features an extensive selection of fresh seafood, as well as a variety of meat and vegetarian options. The dishes are beautifully presented and packed with flavor, with a focus on locally-sourced ingredients. Some of the standout dishes include the grilled octopus, pumpkin tortelloni, and the spicy ahi tuna tartare.

In addition to the delicious food, Sunset Restaurant offers an impressive wine list, with a variety of high-quality wines from around the world. Overall, Sunset Restaurant is a must-visit and highly recommended for those who appreciate great food and wine in a beautiful setting.

9. Lowboy Bar (Echo Park)

You have to grab a drink at Lowboy Bar! This is a must. If you’re looking for a super chill space to drink and hang out with friends in Echo Park, this is the place to go. The decor is great, the vibes are always good and the drinks are stellar. Also, gotta add; great music selection. They have weekly cocktails, all of which are always inventive and quite tasty. 

10. Savage Tacos Food Truck

Last but not least, Savage Tacos Food Truck. There are tons of food trucks out here in the city, but there’s nothing like Savage Tacos Food Truck. To be quite honest, you’ll probably have some of the best meals from a food truck in this city. I’m telling you now if you have the time to stop by Savage Tacos, I promise you, you won’t be disappointed. Track them down and find out where this truck will be on a weekly basis.

The Best Blueberry Pancake and Fried Chicken Recipe

Chicken and waffles might be a great combination but have you tried blueberry pancakes and fried chicken? Well, say hello to your new favorite brunch special. This irresistible recipe combines the classic sweetness of fluffy blueberry pancakes with the savory and crispy crunch of fried chicken for a taste sensation that’s simply out of this world. With the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, this recipe is perfect for any occasion, from a lazy weekend breakfast to a special brunch celebration. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, this Blueberry Pancake and Fried Chicken recipe is a must-try that’s sure to become a new favorite in your household.

INGREDIENTS 

Fried Chicken

  • 1 pack of boneless skinless chicken thighs
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tbsp salt
  • 2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp red pepper flakes
  • 1 tbsp chicken bouillon
  • 2 – 3 eggs
  • 1/4 C brown sugar

Blueberry Pancake

  • 2 C all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 C granulated sugar
  • 4 tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 3/4 C milk,
  • 1/4 C butter
  • 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 1 large egg
  • Blueberries

INSTRUCTIONS 

  1. Seasoning chicken thighs with salt, chicken bouillon, red pepper flakes, and garlic powder.
  2. In a large bowl combine flour and brown sugar together.
  3. Dip the chicken (one at a time) into the eggs first and then flour mixture until both sides are completely coated. Shake off any excessive flour mix.
  4. Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet over medium-high heat and fry the chicken a few pieces at a time. Fry the chicken on both sides until it’s golden on both sides and has cooked through.
  5. Transfer the chicken to a baking sheet pan and bake at 350°F for 10 minutes.
  6. Time to make your pancake mix while the chicken’s in the oven. In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt together. 
  7. In a separate bowl, mix the milk, cooled melted butter, vanilla, and egg together. Whisk the wet mixture together.
  8. Slowly pour the wet mixture into the dry mixture, fold together and add in blueberry. Continue to fold until it’s smooth.
  9. Slight grease a nonstick pan or griddle with melted butter and heat the pan over low-medium heat. Pour ¼ cup of the pancake batter onto the pan and spread out gently into a round shape with the back of your ladle or measuring cup.
  10. Cook the pancakes on both sides until golden. Repeat with the remaining batter.
  11. Serve up the pancakes with the fried chicken. Pour syrup over the finished dish and enjoy it.
  12. Make sure you hashtag #DinnerWithTayo, I would love to see your dish.

Nobu: A Japanese Delicacy in the Heart of Malibu

Nobu Malibu is an exquisite restaurant that offers a unique culinary experience for its guests. Located in the beautiful city of Malibu, California, this restaurant has a stunning oceanfront location that provides breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. I had the pleasure of dining there and I must say, it was an exceptional experience.

From the moment I arrived, the ambiance was luxurious and relaxed, with the sound of the waves crashing in the background. The décor was modern and minimalist, with warm lighting and tasteful accents. The restaurant’s interior design seamlessly blends with the natural beauty of its surroundings, creating a truly breathtaking atmosphere.

Shrimp and Lobster with Spicy Lemon Sauce

But of course, the highlight of any dining experience is the food, and Nobu Malibu did not disappoint. The menu offers an extensive selection of Japanese-Peruvian fusion dishes, all of which are exquisitely prepared and beautifully presented. The sushi and sashimi were particularly outstanding, with fresh and high-quality ingredients that made each bite melt in my mouth. The yellowtail with jalapeno and black cod miso were also standout dishes that I highly recommend.

Chilean Sea Bass in Dry Miso and Asparagus

The service at Nobu Malibu was impeccable, with attentive and knowledgeable staff who were always on hand to offer recommendations and ensure that our dining experience was nothing short of perfect. The cocktails were also a highlight, with unique and creative flavor combinations that perfectly complemented the food.

Overall, I highly recommend Nobu Malibu to anyone looking for an exceptional dining experience in a breathtaking setting. It’s not cheap, but for a special occasion or a treat, it’s definitely worth it.

Address: 22706 Pacific Coast Hwy Malibu, CA 90265 | (310) 317-9140 | www.noburestaurants.com

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