For an easy and guilt-free way to add flavor to any recipe, use food spices. Even the smallest amount of the top spice of your choice in a dish transforms a recipe from blah to ta-da! Let this spice list show you how to use the best spices to add tons of flavor without adding calories.

Black Pepper – Crisp, slightly spicy and unbelievably versatile, it is no small wonder that black pepper is the most common spice in the world. Black pepper is great way to add a touch of heat and a bright aroma to just about any sort of savory application, from eggs and salads to rice and beef. To get the most flavor out of black pepper, freshly grind whole peppercorns using a pepper mill.

Cinnamon – Cinnamon is one of the best spices around because of its surprising versatility. One of the more potent of the essential spices, only a little cinnamon is needed to bring its trademark dense and rich flavor to a dish. Classically associated in the list of spices used in dessert, cinnamon is a great addition to savory rice and Indian dishes.

Cumin – Another popular food spice, cumin has a rich smoky flavor that works well in a variety of dishes, particularly Mexican and Indian recipes. Cumin is one of the best spices for cooking because it can be added to a wide variety of recipes.

Coriander – Coriander is one of the most unique spices in that, when this seed is planted, it becomes the herb cilantro. However, considering coriander brings a bright, warm, almost citrus flavor to a dish, the seed tastes nothing like the herb. Coriander works best in a recipe as a contrast to the heavier smokey flavor of cumin or as a compliment to orange and lemon flavors.

Cloves – Extremely aromatic and slightly sweet, cloves are the top spice that contributes to the distinctive smell of Indian food. Cloves, whether whole or crushed, have a strong flavor and are best used in small amounts. Sprinkle a pinch of crushed cloves in your coffee or tea to add a bright chai flavor.

Cayenne Pepper – If you want to add a lot of intense spicy heat to a recipe, cayenne pepper is the top spice of choice. A tiny bit goes a long way, making cayenne pepper one of the best spices for transforming the flavor of a dish. Great in a whole host of recipes where you want a spicy kick, try mixing it up by adding a touch of cayenne pepper to your sweet chocolate recipes.

Turmeric – While traditionally used in curries and Indian-style recipes, turmeric is one of the best spices for adding color and aroma to a dish. Add turmeric to your spice list next time you make rice or soup. Plus, turmeric has a whole host of medicinal benefits, including as an anti-inflammatory.

Paprika – Essentially just dried and crushed red bell peppers, paprika is one of the essential spices for Hungarian and many Eastern European recipes. Ranging from sweet to slightly spicy, paprika adds a pungent, bright and colorful element to any recipe.

Mustard Seed – Found on the essential spice list of cooks from Western Europe to South Asia, mustard seed is an aromatic spice with a touch of heat, perfect for complimenting the stronger flavors found in heavy meat dishes and pickles. Think of the flavor of mustard seed as a less intense version of horseradish or wasabi.

Ginger – Slightly spicy and pungent, but with just enough sweetness and aroma, ginger should be on the spices list of every home cook. Whether for adding a bright pungency to Chinese and Japanese recipes or for adding a touch of spice of cookies and sweet drinks, ginger is one of the most unique spices because of its versatility. Plus, ginger is great for digestion issues such as nausea and diarrhea.

As part of old customary, Indians still believe in serving their guests with only the best cuisines. The national capital of India, Delhi particularly embodies a pastiche of cuisines and flavours either imported or self created. Ranging from Mexican to Lebanese to Desi curries Delhi has adopted innumerable recopies to create its very own unique flavour. Such potpourri of rich flavours can be easily found at luxury Delhi hotels. These hotels masters the art of culinary and with their numerous restaurants and expert chefs creates magic of culinary delights that makes everyone commit a sin, that of gluttony. Thus dining at these hotels in Delhi comes with complete satisfaction and is one of the best features of these hotels.

Out of a long list of luxury hotels in Delhi those with finest series of restaurants are the following:
Taj Mahal Hotel:
A distinguished address in the national capital, Taj Mahal Hotel is long known for its graceful architecture and warm hospitality. But the one feature which marks its exclusivity is the long list of in-house restaurants offering varied world cuisines. Restaurants:

Emperor’s Lounge: famed for coffees and desserts,
House of Ming: produces classic Cantonese and Sichuan cuisines,
Machan: offers eclectic multi cuisine fares
The Grill Room serving European specialities, Varq offering Indian feast and
Wasabi By Morimoto serving Japanese Sakes and Sushi Bar are the famed culinary delights.

The Oberoi:
Grand is its style and opulence is its way, The Oberoi Hotels have carved a niche for themselves amidst a horde of classy Delhi luxury hotels. When it comes to food, the choices here are endless and can be called the dreamland of every gourmet. Restaurants:

Travertino: Authentic Indian cuisines with fine wines
Taipan: Food from all provinces of China is served here
Club Bar: Lobby level bar serving fine collection of spirits
The Oberoi Patisserie and Delicatessen: An art gourmet store

The Imperial:
A marvellous composition of Victorian, colonial and art deco The Imperial is one purely name for luxury and is a constant reminder of colonial elegance. The hotel has maintained similar style and elegance even in its inviting multi-cuisine restaurants. Restaurants:

The Spice Route: Pan Asian Restaurant serving offering delectable Indian flavours
1911 Bar: Period furnishing, soothing music ambiance is apt for enjoying choicest of wines.
1911 Restaurant: All day dinner
San Gimignano: Italian restaurant & alfresco dining
Daniell’s Tavern: Famous menu includes variety of kebabs, korma and other Mughal cuisines.
The Atrium: A quick reminder of English afternoon tea and breakfast is offered here
Patiala Peg: One of the renowned bars it has a fabulous collection of pictures of Maharaja of Patiala
La Bagnetta: Sweet temptations of chocolates and pastries offered here

These Delhi hotels thus lure its guests with a quantum of delightful fine dining options. Their culinary skills talk for their premier level of dedication and hospitality. These hotels thus always make into most of the food guides of the city.

In addition to spectacular beaches and mountainscapes, summer vacation in Santa Barbara boasts such an abundance of fun and exciting events that draws visitors from all over the world to enjoy unique activities and stay at Santa Barbara vacation rental homes and properties.

Santa Barbara hosts too many events to list here, but this preview of Santa Barbara summer vacation 2010 events (from May 1-September 1) is a good place to start. There’s something for everyone. These diverse multicultural, artsy, wine, beach and food events show why so many people are drawn to the unique character of Santa Barbara.

Of course, some of these Santa Barbara summer vacation events draw thousands of people, and most vacationers in the know want to avoid the crush of a hotel and opt for the ease and convenience of a luxury Santa Barbara vacation rental. You can walk all your gear into a Santa Barbara vacation rental home a lot easier than you can get your surfboard up a crowded hotel elevator. And if you want to bring your dog, a Santa Barbara vacation rental home is an ideal choice for a super Santa Barbara summer vacation. Just take a look at what each month has to offer and keep in mind that summer is our most popular season so you should book your Santa Barbara vacation rental home as soon as you can.

Santa Barbara Vacation Rentals’ Summer Vacation Events for May 2010:

January 30, 2010 – May 30, 2010 – Delacroix to Monet: Masterpieces of 19th-Century Painting from the Walters Art Museum: Assembled over more than 140 years, the collection of the Walters Art Museum in Baltimore entails one of the finest holdings of 19th-century paintings in the United States. The only west coast venue for the exhibition, the Santa Barbara Museum of Art is pleased to present 40 works from this renowned collection. Details at: www.sbma.net

April 28 – May 2, 2010 –  ”Sweet Home Santa Barbara” Fair & Expo: The 21st annual Santa Barbara Fair & Expo is at the Earl Warren Showgrounds. There’s a lot of excitement on the menu from appetizing carnival rides to delicious fair treats to farm animals and livestock. Details at: www.sbfairandexpo.com.

April 29 – May 2, 2010 – 2010 AVP Tour Santa Barbara Open: The world’s best men and women volleyball players will compete in Santa Barbara. Tickets will go fast. Details at: www.avp.com.

May 1, 2010 – 5th Annual Women’s Literary Festival: Located at the beautiful Fess Parker’s DoubleTree Resort, Santa Barbara’s Women’s Literary Festival celebrates readers and women writers with a day of interactive presentations and book signings. The mission of the Women’s Literary Festival is to present the work of contemporary female authors from a variety of backgrounds and life experiences at a yearly conference. The Festival celebrates diversity, literacy and social justice. Details at: womensliteraryfestival.com

May 1, 2010 – May 15, 2010 – 10th Annual Santa Barbara Sea Festival: Make plans now to celebrate Santa Barbara’s beautiful ocean. Festival founder the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum launches an expanded festival, this year running two full weeks. The celebration kicks off May 1-2 with the Santa Barbara Choral Society and Orchestra performing Ralph Vaughan-Williams’ stirring A Sea Symphony at the beautifully restored Granada Theater (performances Saturday May 1 at 8 pm and Sunday May 2 at 3 pm), and ends with the SB Maritime Museum’s hands-on Sea Festival events on May 15 at the Harbor. (Rumor has it that there may even be a visit by a tall ship!) In between, the calendar is packed with two-weeks of sea-themed family fun around town, include Ty Warner Sea Center’s Sensational Seafood event, the Santa Barbara Museum of Art’s special ‘find the seascape’ family activities, and the Downtown Organization’s sea-themed First Thursday with participating business and restaurants all joining in the fun! Details at: sbseafestival.com

May 1-2, 2010 – Cinco De Mayo: The Nineteenth Annual Cinco de Mayo celebration will take place in Plaza de la Guerra and at the Casa de la Guerra. This year’s celebration will be Santa Barbara’s biggest and best event yet. There will be even more great music, dance, savory food, and a kids’ corner full of activities. Details at: www.cincodemayosb.com

May 15, 2010 – Buttonwood Farm Vineyard Crawfish Boil: Laissez les bons temps rouler! It’s spring and that means the crawfish boil is back. Treat yourself to a unique wine country event in this vineyard by the pond. Don’t miss this true Louisiana-style crawfish boil complete with all the trimmings, live Zydeco music, and award-winning estate grown wines. Details at: www.sbcountywines.com

May 16, 2010 – Wheels & Waves: 11th Annual Classic Car And Hot Rod Show: 400 hot rods and classic cars from across America will be on display for one day only at the 11th Annual Wheels & Waves car show. Over 40,000 people jammed State Street last year and 2010 promises to be just as spectacular. There will be live music, raffles, awards and tons of the coolest cars you’ve ever seen. Details at: www.wheelsandwaves.com

May 27, 2010 – Downtown Art & Wine Tour: Eat, drink and be merry at the Downtown Art & Wine Tour. The tour offers participants an opportunity for leisurely strolling between downtown art galleries to see the latest exhibits, taste dishes from downtown restaurants and sample wines from leading Santa Barbara County vintners. This popular event is a community favorite and a complete sell-out each year! Details at: www.santabarbaradowntown.com

May 29 – May 31, 2010 - I Madonnari: Madonnari, or street painters, transform the Mission Plaza using pastels on pavement to create 150 vibrant and colorful, large scale images. Santa Barbara is proud to be the first to bring this romantic festival to the western hemisphere from our sister festival in Grazie di Curtatone, Italy. The festival benefits the Children’s Creative Project, a nonprofit arts education program of the Santa Barbara County Education Office. Admission is free. Details at: www.imadonnarifestival.com

Santa Barbara Vacation Rental’s Summer Vacation Events for June 2010:

June 23-27, 2010 – Lompoc Flower Festival: Santa Barbara’s beautiful flower show delights more than the local bees. Details at: www.flowerfestival.org

June 25, 2010 – Santa Barbara Museum of Art:

Celebrate visual geometry, contrast and texture inspired by Brett Weston
Out of the Shadow  A special performance by String Theory and KCRW’s DJ Jason Bentley
The Nude in Nature Collective Submissions,  Landscaping the Body: Botanical Couture, and Negative Spaces
Shadow Boxes
Join the night’s after-party at Coast at the Canary Hotel  for late dinner and cocktails until 11 pm!

June 25th & 26th, 2010 – Summer Solstice Parade: Santa Barbara’s Summer Solstice Celebration has evolved into creative and original display of floats, giant puppets, whimsical costumes and masks of more than 1,000 parade participants, of all ethnic and economic backgrounds. There is dancing, music, drumming and drama to enthrall spectators. The Summer Solstice Parade features mouthwatering foods and thirst-quenching beverages from local restaurants, an arts and crafts boutique with more than 75 vendors and a large “drum circle” formed by parade participants and anyone else who cares to join in the beat (Saturday only). The wonderful floats from the parade are parked along Micheltorena Street for close-up inspection on Saturday only until approximately 4:30 pm.  Beer and Wine Garden Friday 4-8 pm, Saturday noon to 7 pm. Details: www.solsticeparade.com

Santa Barbara Vacation Rentals’ Summer Vacation Events for July 2010:

July 7-July 18, 2010 – Santa Barbara National Horse Show: July 7-10, 2010 – Multi-Breed Show; July 14-18, 2010 – Hunter-Jumper Show. For more than 80 years, the Santa Barbara National Horse Show has been a grand tradition. The Santa Barbara National Horse Show, now held at the Earl Warren showgrounds, is the oldest horse show in the West, and one of the most prestigious in the nation, as well as the premier American Saddlebred horse show on the west coast. Details at: www.earlwarren.com.

July 15, 2010 – Old Spanish Nights – Tapas and Wine Tasting: This new and exciting event precedes Santa Barbara’s world-famous “Old Spanish Days” Fiesta by a few weeks. In the spirit of Fiesta, the night is charged with exciting Spanish music, passionate flamenco dancing and spicy tapas appetizers. Santa Barbara County’s finest wines will be spotlighted along with hot Spanish imports! Don’t miss this festive upscale event! Details at californiawinefestival.com/eventschedule.html

July 16, 2010 – Sunset Rare & Reserve Wine Tasting: This romantic evening of rare wine tasting begins with a champagne reception under the stars at Santa Barbara’s charming old-world carousel at Chase Palm Park Plaza. Extremely limited reserve level wines are matched with gourmet appetizers from top local chefs, artisan cheeses, even fresh strawberries dipped in a chocolate fountain. Details at: californiawinefestival.com/eventschedule.html

July 17, 2010 – Beachside Wine Festival: This is the “Biggest Wine Festival Under the Sun” in Santa Barbara! A spectacular gathering of over 200 of California’s finest wines from every wine region in the state, showcasing a total of over 350 fine wines at a sunny beach front location. Over 2,500 wine fans will grab their glasses and start swirling and sipping just a Frisbee throw away from the sparkling Pacific, while live music on stage keeps the party going. Details at: californiawinefestival.com/eventschedule.html

July 17 & 18, 2010 – The 23rd Annual French Festival: Bastille Day weekend includes a celebration of French culture at Oak Park. Food, music, entertainment — c’est magnifique! Smiling families dine at sidewalk cafés with checkered tablecloths and umbrellas. Starry-eyed couples toast each other with wine. Artists wearing bérets paint at their easels. The air is filled with music, laughter and the tempting aromas of French cuisine. Surely this must be France? Actually, it’s the 23nd Annual French Festival in Santa Barbara, Saturday and Sunday, July 17 & 18 (Bastille Day Weekend), from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. in Santa Barbara’s Oak Park. Admission is free. Over 20,000 people are expected to attend. Details at: www.frenchfestival.com

June 19, 2010 – Fiddlehead Cellars’ FiddleFest!: FiddleFest returns this year, and it’s not to be missed! It’s an exploration and celebration of Fiddlestix Vineyard: the place, the people, the wines and the feeling. The people who craft a Fiddlestix designated Pinot Noir will pour their wines at the famous Fiddlestix Barn located at mile marker 7.28 on Santa Rosa Rd, smack dab in the middle of the phenomenal Santa Rita Hills. There is fantastic food a-plenty and, of course, a fiddlin’ good time! Details at: www.sbcountywines.com

June 19, 2010 – Lucas & Lewellen Summer BBQ at Valley View Vineyard: This annual summer barbecue is an event as unforgettable as the host, the Dirtman himself! Visit with Louis Lucas, Royce Lewellen, Megan McGrath Gates, and your Lucas & Lewellen friends while savoring new Lucas & Lewellen and Mandolina wine releases, a wine country barbecue, live music by Mike Shelton and the gorgeous view of the Valley View Vineyard. Please reserve early as seating is limited. Details at: www.sbcountywines.com

July 31- August 1 – The 37th Annual Greek Festival: This year’s 37th annual Greek Festival features music and dancing all day long, but the real center stage belongs to the delicious Greek cuisine. Spanakopita, moussaka, souvlaki and gyros provide a delicious lunch or dinner for festival-goers. Don’t forget to save room for dessert! Who could resist trays upon trays of baklava and other honeyed delicacies that will bring back memories of warm nights in the Greek Islands. Details at: www.santabarbaragreekfestival.com

Santa Barbara Vacation Rentals’ Summer Vacation Events for August 2010:

August 4, 2010 – August 8, 2010 – Old Spanish Days Fiesta: Join Santa Barbara in celebrating 86 years of tradition. This cultural event is filled with Spanish and Mexican dancing at the Old Mission and County Courthouse, marketplaces with local food and gift vendors, live music performances and a carnival. Experience one of the largest equestrian parades in the country after a night at the Professional Bull Riders Rodeo. Viva la Fiesta! Details at: www.oldspanishdays-fiesta.org.

August 20, 2010 – Santa Barbara Museum of Art: Surrender to taste, touch, sight, smell and hearing by focusing on five: five works from the permanent collection explored through the five senses. Highlights include: The Scent of Memory Opera, The Synaesthesia Stylists/the Science of Signs Senses Lab, Perseus by Night Amulets, and Candyland(scapes). Join the night’s after-party at Coast at the Canary Hotel. Details at: www.sbmuseart.org

August 21, 2010 – 10th Annual Woodies at the Beach: Classic wood-paneled cars at Santa Barbara City College’s West Campus. Great for the whole family. Details at: www.nationalwoodieclub.com/chapter_sbarb.htm.

ONGOING

Santa Barbara Bowl: This 4,562-seat amphitheater was carved into the hillside in 1936 and is nestled in a wooded canyon known for its spectacular views and concert-friendly weather. www.sbbowl.com or 805-962-7411

Santa Barbara Music Academy of the West: Summer Festival details at www.musicacademy.org or  805-969-4726

Concerts in the Park: Chase Palm Park (Thursdays) and Alameda Park (Sundays).

Santa Barbara Farmers Market – State Street: Each week the farmers in the marketplace display a colorful bounty of agricultural products grown right in our backyard. Seasonal diversity is available year ’round, rain or shine. Music and entertainment enliven the markets while creating a positive ambiance. Come. Shop. Socialize. Certified – the only way to buy! Details at: www.sbfarmersmarket.org.

Historic House & Garden Tour: These 90-minute tours show you some of the best homes and gardens Santa Barbara has to offer. Details at:  www.casadelherrero.com

Santa Barbara has hundreds of more summer vacation events including music, cultural, family-friendly, comedy, sporting, etc. Your best bet to find the most current summer vacation events is going to SantaBarbara.com. Whichever event you plan your Santa Barbara summer vacation around, remember that you’ll want a home base that allows you to unwind and relax in your own private space. A Santa Barbara vacation rental home will be your own calm oasis for your stimulating Santa Barbara summer vacation. Many Santa Barbara vacation rental homes are within easy walking distance to some of these summer vacation events and a Santa Barbara vacation rental concierge can help book reservations and tickets, plus provide insider tips on how to get the most out of each Santa Barbara summer vacation event.

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Halloween can be a day of fun for both young and old. It is also one holiday that is designed for parties. Spooky themes, fun costumes, and plenty of treats make it a good time for all ages.

It has been said that in the past Halloween was reserved mainly for children. There would be costume parties at school, and then an evening of trick-or-treating and other fun. However, more and more adults are starting to take part in the spirit of the holiday as well. After all, who doesn’t enjoy getting dressed up in a fabulous costume and eating candy? Plus, this also makes Halloween a family holiday, since both parents and kids alike can dress up, decorate the house or yard, and participate in the holiday fun.

The history of Halloween parties

Halloween started out as a Celtic holiday known as “Samhain” which celebrated the end of summer. The Celts believed that on the night of Samhain, the souls of the dead would come back to visit the living. Along with them, dark spirits like goblins and witches would also come out. Fires would be lit to keep these dark spirits away, and the Celts would dress in masks and costumes as part of the festivities. Food and lanterns were often left out as gifts for the dead. Over time, these customs turned into the holiday festivities that we know today.

Kids parties

Themes for kids Halloween parties can generally be kept pretty simple. Most kids get excited over dressing up and eating sweets, and there is plenty of room for creativity. Consider having games like bobbing for apples, decorating treat bags, and costume contests for all of the little ones. Of course, food is usually a required part of the fun, and you can get very creative that way. Caramel apples and popcorn balls are fun fall treats, and you can often use a little imagination and food coloring to turn everyday treats into something festive.

Adult parties

While adult parties can still involve costumes and food, you may have to up the ante a little bit when it comes to expectations. Costume contests can still be a great way to encourage guests to get creative and come dressed up. For more mature themes, you can create a Day of the Dead celebration, and celebrate the holiday Mexican-style with authentic foods and treats. Or, you can do a costume ball and play music all night long and serve fine desserts.

Planning ahead

You do not want to leave your Halloween party plans for the month of October. If you start planning ahead of time, you can not only come up with a spectacular theme, but you can find everything you need. Watch for sales and stock up on party supplies like paper plates and cups. Look for fun new recipes to try so that you can wow your friends. And of course, don’t forget to look for a costume – by shopping early you will be able to find the best selection and the best prices.

In New York City, there is an endless variety of restaurants.  If you are searching for the best New York restaurants, begin by deciding on the type of cuisine you are interested in.  Whether you are looking for cuisine from American to Mexican, Asian to Indian, Cajun to Greek or anything in between, you will find it in New York City. You can dine in the best New York restaurants in Manhattan or Queens, Brooklyn, the Bronx or Staten Island and have an exceptional meal.

From cozy to contemporary, you will find restaurants all over the city to delight your senses.  Dine indoors or outdoors on the most delicious food available with delectable sauces and accompanying fine wines.  Top off your meal with a scrumptious dessert then head out for a stroll through the exciting city streets.  Your taste buds will be tantalized with some of the finest dining in the world, with a restaurant to satisfy everyone’s’ desires.

Tucked in between the array of shops, homes, and larger restaurants are cozy restaurants with succulent cuisine from appetizers to desserts.  Some of the best New York restaurants are set in a more casual atmosphere where a group of friends can share old memories and make new ones as they enjoy an outstanding dinner.

Throughout the city you can dine at a restaurant, bar, or bistro.  Most of the best New York restaurants require dinner time reservations, although you may be more apt to get a seat at a bar or bistro without one.  Typical restaurants feature tables and booths with an enjoyable and exciting atmosphere.  At a bistro, you will find a more relaxing atmosphere with the menu featuring specialty items from around the world.  Meals at a Bistro are usually home cooked, simple and made with fresh, local ingredients and are often accompanied by a glass of wine.   If you are looking for a fun and very casual atmosphere, stop by one of the many local bars and join “the regulars” for a quick bite to eat and a beer.  Many corner bars are rich in family history and date back to early immigration.

So before you are ready to head into the city, visit www.NewYork.com to see the selection of the best New York restaurants.  While browsing our site, check out the discounted dining certificates for our featured restaurants.  But remember, no matter which restaurant you choose, you will be guaranteed a wonderful night out in the city with a delightful meal at one of the best New York restaurants.

What’s new that I really love?

Mellisa Dennis books Sfoglia weeks ahead and explains the changing menu. Photo: Steven Richter

What’s new and good, all my friends ask? Of all the restaurants I’ve written about on InsatiableCritic.com since shortly before we launched, where do I want to eat again? Going backwards chronologically from November 5, 2007…

Bun.  In the exposed kitchen of this narrow bargain Vietnamese noodle shop, Chef and mini-mogul Michael “Bao” Huynh whirls and dashes…filling orders a la minute for sensational pho with beef and sweetbreads, and the duck confit with duck egg and dikon pancake that I can’t stop eating.  A few steps away his wife Thap Nguyen’s serenely fashions classic rolls, two by two, for a demanding crowd. 143 Grand Street between.Crosby and Lafayette. 212-431-7999.

Irving Mill. Unabashedly flaunting the genes of Gramercy Tavern, what’s new and exciting is chef/partner John Schaefer’s delicious food on a trim but tempting market menu.  Try grilled baby octopus, savory cockle-and-chorizo stew and arctic char on lentils with Savoy cabbage, speck and cippolini. 116 E. 16th Street between Union Square East and Irving Place 212 254 1600

Shorty’s .32.  After twelve years in Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s kitchens, chef/partner Josh Eden concealed in his own downtown, turns out wonderful cavatelli with arugula and wild mushroom ragout, fine braised short ribs served alongside macaroni and cheese of my childhood dreams, splendid roast cod in a gruyere broth, and a burger with crunch-perfect fries. He’s wooing the neighborhood, so no reservations for us. 199 Prince Street between Sullivan and MacDougal 212 375 8275.

TBar Steak & Lounge. Tony Fortuna’s recasting of the Lenox Room means a noisy scene at the bar and impressive steaks, a juicy pork chop and no more tasting tiers. He’s got it in his head that desserts should come in large crystal bowls and be big enough for eight to share. Go for chocolate sundae with molten brownie, and the layered banana parfait mille feuilles. 1278 Third Avenue between 73rd and 74th. 212 772 0404

Shelly’s La Tradizionale.  Nudged by the mercurial Shelly Fireman, this is now a Ristorante di Pesci with wonderful and original pastas, sparkling shellfish, the gorgeous lobster Catalana, and – you shouldn’t starve from lack of beef – first-rate steaks. 41 West 57th Street between Fifth and Sixth Avenues. 212 245 2422

Primehouse NY. Steve Hanson’s sprawling and elegant new steakhouse sticks mostly to the classics, splendidly turned out, with tableside theatrics, a crowd that loves itself because it’s hot, and an aging room for all the cow sired by Hanson’s own pedigreed bull. 381 Park Avenue South at 27th Street. 212 824 2600

Park Avenue Autumn. Fall may not be as exciting as summer in the Stillman clan’s seasonal evolution but Chef Craig Koketsu’s has found himself, and  Richard Leach  manages to show his dessert mastery without resorting to weirdness.  Try the wild quail and the venison, now before winter arrives and turns the place ice white. 100 E.63rd Street. (between Lex & Park Ave.) 212-644-1900

Toloache Bistro . An earnest Mexican bistro yearns for the big time with Chef/partner Julian Medina’s menu skipping around Mexico and beyond. Savor huevo ranchero, brisket with tomatillo salsa stuffed into corn tortillas or baja style hamachi tacos. 251 W. 50th Street near Broadway 212 581 1818

Fiamma.  Chef/partner Fabio Trabocchi’s complex dishes and star chef confidence in the freshly gussied up space are impressive in a very early tasting.  I plan to go back.  206 Spring Street near Sixth Avenue. 212 853 0100.

Accademia di Vino.  I never got to taste entrées in two evenings here because I loved the grilled pizza, salads and pasta so much. Wish it had opened in my neighborhood. 1081 Third Av. at 64th St. 212 888-6333

BLT Market. I’ve been back twice on my own credit card for Laurent Tourondel’s lush and delicious play on seasonal food (though I wished autumn leaves had chased away the sunflowers earlier). I’m even getting used to the idea of the Ritz Carlton dining room looking like a suburban luncheonette. 1430 Sixth Avenue or 50 Central Park South 212 521 6125

Kefi. I will suffer the annoyance of no reservations, no plastic, crowded tables, and lines out the door for the rustic country classics of Greece from the town’s reigning Greek Hero, chef Michael Psilakis.  Here is the food that inspired his gentrified odes in midtown at Anthos (below): cuttlefish stuffed with spinach and beans, mussels with gigante beans, radicchio and feta, a mellow moussaka. 222 West 79th Street near Broadway  212 873 0200

Yes, Yes Yes. That’s a burger to savor at Old Homestead’s sidewalk cafe. Photo: Steven Richter

Prime Burger Café.  I can

get a comforting hamburger fix steps from my home at Fairway Café and a really exceptional burger is as close at Brooklyn Diner.  But I confess, I’ve been obsessing about the giant peppered prime beef burger at Old Homestead’s outdoor café since I first tasted it. 56 Ninth Avenue at 14th Street 212 242 9040

Insieme. Craft veteran Chef Marco Canova reaches beyond the rustic boundaries of Hearth and doesn’t rely on bizarre juxtapositions to catch our attention with his Italian dishes, traditional and modern. Don’t miss sensuous baby beef tartare and the sea urchin risotto. 777 Seventh Avenue at 51st Street.  212 582 1310

Tree. A real find in the East Village for its gently priced comfort food classics by Gramercy Tavern veteran Andrew Robinson.  But once the chill closes the garden, it will be teeny again. 190 First Avenue near 12th Street. 212 358 7171

Daisy May’s BBQ.  The ready-to-go ribs are fine but Adam Perry Lang’s luscious couturier barbecued rack of lamb and the addictive fat-riddled short ribs smoked on the bone bring us to his ambiance-challenged back room as often as our arteries can stand it.  623 Eleventh Avenue, corner of 46th Street. 212 977 1500.

Wild Salmon.  I haven’t been back to this celebration of the Northern Pacific since a friends-and-family tasting with the boss man himself, Jeffrey Chodorow.  I might have been snowed by too much attention, but Chef Charles Ramseyer is a serious pro and I was impressed by his variations of salmon.  622 Third Avenue at 40h Street. 212 404 1700.

Anthos blossoms under Chef Michael Psilakis’s ardor.  Photo: Steven Richter

Anthos. This is the stage for Chef/partner Michael Psilakis’s obsessive dream – an homage to his mom’s rustic home cooking, everything Greek respun – lighter, more refined, sophisticated, and tantalizing.

I am especially grateful for the $25 lunch. 36 West 52nd Street near Fifth Avenue. 212 582 6900.

Sfoglia. Again and again I go back to Sfoglia.  Linguine with monkfish balls was a summer discovery.  Both the Road Food Warrior and I invariably have the exceptionally fat mussels with sausage in a fragrant broth. At dessert, we debate:  Shall we have the nightly fruit crostata or the chocolate bread pudding, warm from the oven? 1402 Lexington Avenue at 92nd Street. 212 831 1402

This summer I rediscovered Oceana with its new chef Ben Pollinger. I found Stanton Social noisier than ever but great fun — and most everything so delicious — for a birthday party.  Perry Street with its talented new chef de cuisine would be a serene place to hide out if they didn’t keep you waiting an hour.  What a shock it was to find marvelous raisin crumb coffee cake at Eli’s E.A.T. for just $5 a slice.

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Car Hire In Valencia

UP TO €15 RESTAURANTS IN VALENCIA
El Kiosco
Plaza Doctor Collado.
This typical Valencian cervecería (beer bar) is just behind the gorgeous La Lonja, near the Central Market. Lunch is around €10—cheap as chips, wine included. This place made it to a Daily Telegraph list of the best places in the world to have lunch!

Tas Keta
Plaza Santa Margarita 1, tel: 690 954 488
This is a really friendly ‘taberna’ that serves good wholesome Spanish tapas and food, it is just off the Plaza de la Virgen on C/Trinitarios. Breakfast to supper and tapas and drinks all day. Nice quiet and sunny terrace too

La Diabla
17 Calle de Roteros. Tel. 96 392 4618
This is a fab, small and intimate restaurant with a friendly atmosphere, serving market fresh, yummy and interesting food. The lunchtime set menu (menu del dia) is €8.50, rising to €12 in the evenings (drink not included).

Pans & Company
Around town
Spanish fast-food chain selling baguettes filled with fresh ingredients. Extremely reasonable, lunch with a drink will leave you around 5euro cheaper.

Horchateria Santa Catalina
Calle Santa Catalina.
If you haven’t tasted the local speciality horchata (tiger nut milk) yet , then this is where you should head to, order fartons to dunk too! just off Plaza de la Reina.

Susan Wich
9 Calle Roteros. Tel. 96 391 7584
A really reasonably priced place to have a tasty sandwich — with more than 50 to chose from — an interesting salad (try the thai one, a personal fave here at thisisvalencia.com) or just a coffee in a fun 50′S room.

La Lonja del Pescado Frito
243 Calle Eugenia Vines. Tel. 96 355 3535
Amazingly busy and active eatery offering fresh fish dishes. Grab an order form on entry and fill it in at your table.

La Sardineria
Calle Borradores 10, tel: +34 96 392 2110
Right in front of the cathedral, Great reports from many people on the fish at this little restaurant.

The Paseo de la Alameda
is a lovely romantic setting for evening drinks as the sun sets over the city as the many bars along this beautiful stretch of the Río Túria light up their leafy terraces with candles at nightfall.

UP TO €30 RESTAURANTS IN VALENCIA

Villaplana
24 Calle Doctor Sanchis Sivera. Tel. 96 385 0613
A huge cervecería that’s very popular with large groups and large families, large portions in a large place and largely noisy (particularly at weekends)! The set menu for groups costs around €18 a head — and the food and drink just keeps on coming, served by friendly staff who never seem to get fazed and try their hardest to speak a bit of english if you really cant handle the spanish after a bit too much of their house sangria!!

La Cullera del Palau
Plaza Manises 2, tel: 96 392 0698
Directly in front of the Presedent’s Palau off Plaza de la Virgen, this is a new restaurant serving Mediterranean Cuisine. It’s a good menu and they do a very interesting menu del dia for 12€ including drink, coffee and dessert

Los Zopilotes
16 Calle Roteros. Tel. 96 392 4198
Even thought the Barrio del Carmen is full to bursting with bars and restaurants, this is the only Mexican. Run by extremely (and sometimes singing) mad mexican men, in a Über mexican setting, it feels like you have just stepped into mini-mexico. Curiously, they also offer a couple of pasta dishes, but be careful as lolita and anita had a hilarious time with burning mouths when they opted for the easy way out, pasta . Also a great cocktail list at only €3 a drink and a long list.

Cinquante Cinq
55 Joaquin Costa. Tel. 96 325 5029
An inexpensive stylish bistro that serves freshly prepared country-style French cuisine a friendly atmosphere. The menu del dia is a bargain.

La Parpadella
10 Calle Borradores. Tel. 96 391 8915
Next to the cathedral, this fab iyetie restaurant specialises in piadinis (griddle-cooked sandwiches) salads and pastas. Lunch is great value at €10, including drink and pudding.

Beirut U
39 Conde Altea. Tel. 96 374 5905
Excellent attentive service and good value food. Try the excellent mezze, with 10 different dishes it’s a bargain at around €16.

UP TO €50 RESTAURANTS IN VALENCIA

Corretgería
C/ San Dionisio Tel: 96 392 4161
Spanish with a twist, such a great idea, to do the traditional spanish menu but being imaginative for once. Just off C/Caballeros it is little and intimate, perfect for a 1st date, and the service is friendly but not too in your face.

Los Cuentos
200 Avenida del Puerto. Tel. 96 330 0022
Another one that does Mediterranean and Valencian cooking with a trendy twist. Los Cuentos offers stunningly prepared and presented food. The lunchtime menu is around €35 and there’s a menu degustaçion of seven dishes for €45.

Yi
15 Calle Antonio Suárez. Tel. 96 344 1567
Something on offer from all parts of Asia. Their degustacion menus are a great way of sampling Chinese, Japanese, Vietnamese and Thai food. The ambience chilled and you are served with care — the only complaint is the rapid onslaught of dishes, so tell them to slow down!

Basilico
42 Calle Cadiz. Tel. 96 316 8369
This new café/restaurant with such a mixture of food is minute, so make sure you book a table ahead. Basilico is minimalist and modern, with very attentive service. Now doing Sunday Brunch

Diablito
57 Calle Polo y Peyrolon. Tel. 96 328 8088
An african themed, extremely cool italian restaurant. Low seating and cosy corners, Über trendy people and waiters, cocktail bar upstairs fab selection of drinks and very popuular with certain people from the valencian footy team and erasmus crowd.

LaLola
8 Calle Subida del Toledano. Tel. 96 391 8045
This is one of the faves of the creme de la creme of alternative valencia, pay €45 for the menu desgustacion and let the chef choose what you are going to eat.An extremely cool way of eating out!

EXCLUSIVE RESTAURANTS IN VALENCIA

La Sucursal Del IVAM
118 Calle Guillem de Castro. Tel. 96 374 6665
An elegantly modern restaurant with a fab wine list, different menu and inside Valencia’s modern art museum (Instituto Valenciano de Arte Moderno), Expect to pay around €60-75 per person.

Rías Gallegas
4 Calle Cirilo Amorós. Tel. 963 525 111
A galician restaurant that serves high quality seafood imported from the atlantic coast, a fantastic ambience and a wonderful wine cellar to chose from.

Chust Godoy
6 Calle Boix. Tel. 96 391 3815
Not much more to say that this is just a fantastic restaurant that serves spanish and valencian food beautifully and served to you in a comfortable, quite at home surroundings.

El Angel Azul
33 Calle Conde Altea. Tel. 96 374 5656
This restaurant oozes luxury and the foods is as good as it looks. The menus degustacion are excellent and terrific value at €30 or €50. There’s an exceptional wine list, too.

Riff
18 Calle Conde Altea. Tel. 96 333 5353
Bernd Knoller is the chef here and he is known to take his food very seriously. There’s an excellent menu degustacion—a great way to sample the signature dishes.

San Nicolas
8 Plaza Horno de San Nicolas. Tel. 96 391 5984
Here in this long established restaurant, the speciality is Valencian cuisine. Enjoy rice dishes cooked to perfection and market fresh fish. Also a great wine list.

Ampar
14-16 Calle Navarro Reverter. Tel. 96 316 2884
A black and white themed restaurant, black and white interior, minimalist of course, black clad waiters and a fantastic menu offeringbeautifully presented nouvelle cuisine. Also a fab wine list on offer.

SPANISH / VALENCIAN RESTAURANTS IN VALENCIA

El Rall • Tunidores,2 (near La Lonja and Pl Negrito) Tel:96 392 20 90 Open everyday. Excellently located in the atmospheric centro historico with a great terrace. Experienced staff serve well-prepared rice dishes and fish specialities. Good quality meat dishes and tasty desserts make this newish restaurant a top choice in the centre. Relax, savour and take your time in what has already become a firm favourite in the Carmen. Recommended.

• • Chust Godoy • C/ Boix, 6 – 46003 Valencia • Tel. 96 391 3815. This is, quite simply, a great restaurant. Beautifully prepared Spanish and Valencian food, served in very comfortable surroundings by attentive and knowledgeable staff. They occasionally have special menus, such as, recently, a game menu, 14 courses with wine 53 euros per head. Be sure to book.

Enoteca C/Vicente Iborra 3 tel: 96 315 20 72
New- and in the atmospheric Barrio del Carmen. A little bit different and quite special. Wine lovers will appreciate the list – 120 different vinos (tinto y blanco) – from Spain, France,Chile, Australia and the USA plus a fine range of cavas and champagnes. The food is exquisite and an original combination of French and Spanish – Foie Gras con Sardinas, Paté, Duck, Bacaloa, Jamón Iberica. Deserts include Luxuriant Ice creams and a fine selection of Cheeses. Cosmopolitain Staff of Spanish, French and German. Private mealscan be arranged for paties of ten or more with the menu of your choice.Original, atmospheric and highly recommended.

Taberna Valenciana • Calle San Ignacio de Loyola,1 Tel:96 384 74 66. Five minutes walk from the Torres de Quart, this a real Valencian tavern with room for seventy customers. Home-made dishes by a family-run business. A wide range of rices, tapas and meat dishes.Good quality food at reasonable prices. Worth the stroll.

Tasca Corona • C/corona,7 Turn left after Circus on c/Alta Tel: 96 392 63 36 This bright and fresh looking locale is proving to be very popular both day and night. One-minute walk from Calle Alta, it is well worth a visit.National specialities including Andalucian, Mallorcan, Aragonese and Valencian dishes. Popular with builders, artists, office workers, politicians, architects, foreigners. Recommended

Figón • C/ Centenar de la Ploma,3 Mellow restaurant in an atmospheric corner of the Barrio Carmen. Cheese and Spinach Croquetas, Imaginative salads, plenty of hams, rioja. On Sundays there are delicious paellas and plenty of Rioja to drink. Open every day from 8p.m. to 1a.m. Good service, rustic interior. Open afternoons on Sunday. Conveniently located near the I.V.A.M.

Utielana • Two entrances: Pl. Picadero dos Aguas,3 and San Andres,4 Just off Marqués de dos Aguas. Lunches only. Closed Sat. Very authentic and popular among Valencians. About 8euros for the full menu. Traditional home-cooking.

El Rincon de Roberto • Conde Altea,35 Describes itself as a ‘café-bar’, but it seems to us like more of a tasca. A strong competitor at lunchtime, with the terraza always full. The menu set us back about 6 euros each.

La Pepica • At the Beach – Avda. Neptuno,6 Tel:96 371 03 66 Open every day 13 to 16h and 20.30 to 23h (closed festival evenings). Rices and seafoods are the main ingredients, with paella Valenciana at 7 euros.Hemingway did eat here.

CARMEN RESTAURANTS IN VALENCIA

Tapineria – first left off Corregeria. Open evenings only during summer, from 21.30 to 24 or 1h. Closed Sun. Well-loved by the designer crowd, with international designer dishes to match. Menu at 15 euros.

Bodego de la Sarieta • Juristes,4 Off Corregería. Open mid-day and evenings. Closed Sun. Valencian cuisine plus a bit more. Menus of picadas and platos average 12euros, a la carte weighs in at 20-24 euros

Montalbán • Caballeros,10 Tel:963 92 44 95
Open every day, 13.30 to 16h and 21 to 23.30h.
Its location and blue neon sign make this the most noticeable restaurant in Carmen – they accept reservations. General ‘Iberican’ menu at around12 euros includes their lamb speciality, plus steaks, monkfish and bull’s tail.

La Barbacoa del Carme • Pl. del Carmen,6 Open evenings only Mon to Sat, but mid-day Sun. (Midweek lunches can be booked in advance). Quite sophisticated for a barbecue, it has to be said, and prices at 12-18 euros (max). Terraza puts you in the square itself.

Dante • Calatrava,4 Next to Pl. Negrito Open evenings only. Classy Italian restaurant/pizzeria, easily missed but with a spacious, atmospheric interior thanks in part to the tidy exposed brickwork and dim lighting. There are two other Dantes elsewhere in Valencia.

JUAN LLORÉNS RESTAURANTS IN VALENCIA

Amics Meus Cafe • C / Calixto III,6 Tel: 96 384 55 28. In the beautiful Juan Llorens area, this is one of the best cafe-bocaterias of the community. A great view in peaceful surroundings it is the perfect meeting point day or night. Popular with the arts crowd and the clubbers for all the right reasons. Wide range of quality tapas, tasty sandwiches and excellent menu del dias. Friendly staff and well-prepared dishes at reasonable prices make Amics Meus a pleasure to relax in. Highly recommended.

La Fondue de Bachiller • C/ el Bachiller, 22 Tel : 96 360 75 74 There are a number of fondue restaurants in Valencia. This is the one with the most choice and the best value for money. Conveniently located in the Blasco Ibañez University zone, this restaurant of six years has comfortable and tasteful surroundings, room for about 35 guests and a sense that the customer comes first. Fondues include Swiss, Dutch, Danish and Roquefort specialities. There are delicious chocolate and fruit fondues in the dessert section.Terenera and solomillo choices contrast with vegetarian specialities and tasty salads so that everybody is catered for. Friendly staff and an original choice for courting couples and groups .

RELAXED & INFORMAL RESTAURANTS IN VALENCIA

S’Horabaixa • Conde de Almodávar. Evenings only, from 21 to 1h. Apparently the only Mallorquín specialist in town, this café-restaurant serves light meals such as the various combinations available on crusted bread. The setting is very relaxed and informal, with a range of clientele from students upwards.

Los Viñales • Pintor Fillol,4 Next to Pl. Carmen and Pl. Santa Cruz – just off c/Roteros). Tapas, bocadillos, rice dishes – with a daily menu.

OVERSEAS REPRESENTATION
The Italians and the Chinese have safely bagged the top two spots in the foreign food department. But the diversity is coming – Japanese cooking is the height of cool in Madrid and Barcelona and a few Latin American imports might change the outlook before long.

ITALIAN/PIZZERIA RESTAURANTS IN VALENCIA
Centre

Don Salvatore Italiano • C/ Conde de Altea,41 Tel: 96 3731117 In the heart of the Canovas restaurant zone, this is a real treat of an Italian restaurant. Well-lit, excellent service and plenty of space. Nearly 40 pizzas to savour including Siciliana, Caprichosa and Americana. Delicious toppings of mushrooms, ham, onions, salmon, salami, tuna, spicy meats and more. Healthy salads including fruit and cheese choices.Try the original Don Salvatore spaghetti or enjoy well-prepared pasta dishes from Genova, Florence and Parma.Incredible choice of meats – solomillo, steaks, spicy, beef – nearly fifty dishes to choose from. A favourite with Valencian footballers and regularly visited by tourists and the foreign community. It is mentioned that in 1969 man arrived on the moon and that in 1997 Don Salvatore arrived in Valencia! A welcoming, classy Italian restaurant where a good meal with wine comes to about 18 Euros. Great for groups and a discerning option for couples looking for something a cut above the usual. Well- situated, popular and with bi-lingual, friendly owner. One of Canovas’ great success stories. Highly recommended.

BACCO D.O.C. • C/ los Derechos 29 Bajo (1min walk from La Lonja building). Tel: 96 391 19 65 A very original, Italian restaurant with a difference. The setting is fun and a little decadent. Stalagtites hang from the cave-like setting. It has one the most original washrooms in Valencia. The owners are Italian and Valencian, The food is very good and well-presented. Very varied menu Anti Pasti, Pasta, huge range of Pizzas. Good selection of wine. An excellent choice for first-timers, courting couples, experts and groups.Now a much wider range of tasty pasta and excellent pizza- a fun night out.

La Bottega Dell Ozio • Salvador Giner,1 Near Na Jordana and IVAM Tel: 96 391 10 70. Open 13.30 to 16.30h and 21h onwards. Original Italian deviating from the the typical routine(actually the first to do so) and with specialities of “anything-but-pizza” variety. Wines and tapas are also recommended.Genuine owner with lots of experience. Warm and intimate atmosphere.

La Dispensa della Nonna • Calle Quart Tel: 96 3922629. Next to the historic Torres de Quart, this cool and classy Italian has been refurbished with a more modern design, more inviting atmosphere and more space for the customer. Spinach, cheese and ham salads are well-prepared and presented. Tasty pasta dishes ranging from Tagliatelle Frutti di Mar to Strozzapreti a la Checa. Quality comes first at La Dispensa. Savour their own Il Tagliere della Nonna from their Antipasti selection. A good night out for couples and groups. A cosmopolitan crowd.

Maramao • Corregería,37 Tel: 96 392 31 74 Open 14 to 16h and 21 to 24h.
This arty Italian is set in the heart of the atmospheric centro historico and achieves it’s aim of providing a sexy, upmarket Italian restaurant- with original design and an adventurous menu. Live music is an excellent idea.

Al Pomodoro • Del Mar,22 Tel: 96 3914800. Open 14 to 16h and 21 to 24h. Very popular Italian locale since its opening. Bright, well-designed interior on two floors.A top choice for groups and good value for money. Let’s be clear on one thing – the house speciality is PIZZA.

La Pappardella • Bordadores,5 Next to the Cathedral Tel: 96 3918915. Open 14 to 16h and 21 to 24h. Just as – if not even more – popular Italian restaurant ‘from the same school’ as Al Pomodoro, but without pizza and with the emphasis this time on Piadinas and pastas. Like Al Pomodoro, has universal appeal.Conveniently located near the Cathedral.Now more visible.

Peperoncino, Maestro Gozalbo,29 tel 96 373 2254
Tables and chairs both in and out serving slices of pizza and focacce .

Pizzeria Endavant • Venerables,3 Next to Pl. Arzobispo behind Pl. de la Reina. Open every day except Sun, 9.30 to 1700h and from 20 to 24h. A small bar – Spanish but serving pizzas – which also serves a variety of rice dishes and stews (“guisados”) and has a daily menu.

Sale & Pepe • C/Joaquin Costa,61 • Tel: 96 395 90 54 In the cosmopolitan Canovas area, this is an original Italian restaurant run by the owners of the renowned La Botega Dell Ozio. In Sale & Pepe you will find a large range of delicious pizzas prepared the authentic way by Italian chefs.. Check out their Peppe Nappa with Tomato, mozzarella, ham and mushrooms or their native Pizza Siciliana with tomato, mozzarella, aubergine, capers, parmesan and basil. Fine range of delicious salad dishes like their Insalata di Rucole with prawns and pineapple.
Excellent pasta dishes like Alfredo, Siciliana and more with choices from Italy’s many regions. Depending on what you are drinking(over 30 wines to choose from) expect a meal to come between 6-12 euros. Relaxed atmosphere, comfortable surroundings and experienced staff. Check it out.

The Beach
Hosteria el Vizio, C/Eugenia Vines 105, tel: 96 372 7778
open all day 7 days a week.
A brand new Italian restaurant serving beautifully prepared food, not your typical pizza, pasta (though they serve excellent versions of both!) Great atmosphere, lively and really friendly staff. Great for parties, they even have a room perfect for a small private dinner. Inexpensive and great value. Opposite the Hotel Arenas on Malvarrosa.**

Spaghetti and Blues • Playa de la Patacona.C/Partida de Vera,109 Tel: 96 550 474. 15 minutes walk up from Malva-Rosa. Italian with blues every night. On the beach front, with terrazas front and back. Two other S&Bs exist in town – including Avda Reina de Valencia.

Cánovas
Il Ghiottone • Císcar,34 Take advantage of the 20% discount (or free bottle of Lambrusco) offered Mon to Thurs (any time) and Friday lunchtime.

Greek RESTAURANTS IN VALENCIA
Rincon Griego • Conde Montornes • Take away as well. Tel: 96 394 44 43 Legendary amongst Greek restaurants in the community. This is a classic that combines a relaxing atmosphere with Mediterranean hospitality.

Indian RESTAURANTS IN VALENCIA
Baz Indian Restaurant
C/ Llano De Zaidia, 16 ·Tel: 96 349 5953 and 617 233 402 NEW LOCATION
2:00 pm to 4:00 pm and 9:00 pm to midnight.
This restaurant serves really good Indian food, and though the menu is not as large as others, there is a wide enough choice for a good and inexpensive meal. No longer in the barn of a place in Calle San Vicente it is now just across the river from IVAM. They offer two good value deals, a 9 dish Menú Degustación for 15€ a head and a Menú del Dia at 7.95€ The service is quick and friendly!*

Dhaba
Indian restaurant and cocktail bar
Plaza Don Juan de Villarrasa 6 ·Tel: 96 391 0019
Here’s a real find, in the square behind the Central Market, a smart and attractive restaurant serving authentic Indian food. It is also a cocktail bar at night and is open for lunch and dinner seven days a week. At lunchtime they offer a selection of Thalis, little dishes served on a tray with bread and a poppadum. A great and very tasty way of sampling the menu for 14€ a head.**
www.Dhaba.es

Darbar Indian Restaurant
294 Avenida Puerto · Tel: 96 331 15 83
Open daily 1-4pm and 8.30 to midnight
At the bottom, Port end of Avenida del Puerto, Darbar is a corner of real India in Valencia. This is an Indian palace, every of the interior hand made in India. The cuisine is authentic, with a great range of Indo-Pakistani dishes served by attentive staff.

Taj-Mahal Indian Restaurant
Dr Manuel Candela, 20 •. Tel: 96 330 62 64
One of the original Indian restaurants in Valencia. Classic menu with all your favourites: Chicken Tandoori, Chicken tikka, King Prawn Tandoori, Chicken Tikka Masala, Lamb. Wide variety of rices with vegetable, lime and lemon.They have an excellent food store for all your exotic food requirements and a ‘Bollywood’ Video library**

Turkish RESTAURANTS IN VALENCIA
Istanbul
C/ Salamanca,15 Tel: 96 395 00 75.
This Turkish restaurant has terrific food. For only 3 euros you can eat home-made bread, kebab, kofte or turkish pizza. Beside the shoarma they have a large menu with a lot of delicious and special plates. French, English, Turkish and Spanish speaking staff make this bar/restaurant worth visiting.

Colombian RESTAURANTS IN VALENCIA
Aire Latino
Taquígrafo Martí, 20.
Live music.

Argentinian RESTAURANTS IN VALENCIA
El Gaucho
Conde Altea
Rustic interior, friendly owners and plenty of meats.

Mexican RESTAURANTS IN VALENCIA
Los Zopilotes
C/ Roteros, 16 • Tel: 96 392 4198.
The Barrio del Carmen is awash with bars and restaurants, this one is Mexican and is great value. Curiously, they also offer a couple of Pasta dishes. A good cocktail list at only 3€ a drink!

American RESTAURANTS IN VALENCIA

Tony Roma’s
Plaza Canovas 2 · Tel: 96 351 3433
The best ribs in town – try a combo – ribs’n'chicken

Little Rock • Blasco Ibáñez

Río Grande • Blasco Ibáñez/Yecla

French RESTAURANTS IN VALENCIA
El Bicho Raro • C/ Conde Montornes,9 Tel:96 392 49 20 One of the Finest French restaurants in Valencia. Specialities Duck, Crepe, Salmon, cheeses. 4 minutes from Plaza la Virgen. Authentic French atmosphere.

La Champagne · C/Poeta Liern, 27 · Tel: 96 394 2970 · www.restaurantelachampagne.com Amazing that this French restaurant has remained a bit of a secret. Sit under the huge picture of the Eiffel tower and enjoy some of the city’s very best French cuisine. Classic French dishes such as the Solomillo (or filet) with Foie Gras and the melt-in-the-mouth duck à l’orange are perfectly cooked and presented. To finish? They do a great tarte tatin.

Piano Vert Fromagerie • Salamanca,18
Tel: 96 373 09 35 Evenings only. Closed Sun. Excellent salads, plates of cheese and pates. Pay about 15 euros.

Chinese RESTAURANTS IN VALENCIA
Yi • C/Antonio Suárez, 15 • Tel: 96 344 1567. Food from all around Asia. Their menus ‘degustacion’ are a great way of sampling Chinese, Japanese, Vietnamese and Thai. The food is great, the ambience too, is great, our only complaint is the the rapid onslaught of the successive dishes, so tell them to Slow Down!

Japanese RESTAURANTS IN VALENCIA
Tastem
14 Ernesto Ferrer, Tel: 96 369 68 51
Tastem have three restaurants in Valencia, well actually one is outside the city in the village of Rocafort. The other two are as per the address above and one in the Westin Hotel. Superb quality Japanese food in ultra modern surroundings.

Kaede • Calle Ciscar Tel:96 333 86 33 Open 12.30 to 16.30 and 20.30 to midnight. Kaede has been waiting for the Japanese craze in Madrid and Barcelona to reach Valencia… Needs a little updating decor wise but the food is still good and Not as pricey as you’d expect (15-18 euros per head) and the healthiest option available.

Ao Yama • Joaquín Costa,3 next to KFC 96 374 89 43 Different midday menus from Mon to Fri at 900 pts (including 3 dishes, plus drink, dessert and coffee).

Lebanese RESTAURANTS IN VALENCIA
Beirut U • Conde Altea Great service and particularly good value. A favourite of the 24-7online team who go there for their excellent mezze – a bargain at around 7 euros.And – sounds naff – but is actually great – their Lebanese burger. NOw in the Barrio del Carmen too C/Alta

RESTAURANTS IN VALENCIA OFFERING SOMETHING DIFFERENT
La Cañameria C/ Alta, 42 Tel: 96 391 77 54 If you are looking for something different( within walking distance of the centre) then wind down the cobbled streets of the atmospheric Barrio Carmen and stoll down Calle Alta. La Cañameria is one of a kind in this city. Many of the dishes are prepare with hemp seeds and there is plenty of information about the uses of the universal plant. It is a Cannabis restaurant that , in a short time, has attracted an open-minded crowd of both the young and more mature.A cosmopolitan mix bring years of experience with many north African dishes like Cous-cous and Tabbouleh. Worth making a reservation for due to the limited space. Already popular.

Casa el Famós
Ermita de Vera, 14 Tel: 963710 028 or 963556 384 (closed Sunday evening)
In la Huerta of Valencia. Part Restaurant, part museum.Noisy and fun, this restaurant is a delight. Still run by the Navarro family, who are both helpful and courteous. The paella, melloso and rabbit, still cooked over orange wood fires, are exceptional. The menu is typical Valencian and if you’re not sure what to order, they are happy to help . But leave room for the puddings, they are delicious. The clientele are still a mix of workers and artists but don’t be surprised if you find yourself in the company of doctors, lawyers, journalists or even politicians. The atmosphere is friendly and informal. The only downside is very limited parking, so be warned.
Around 20 Euros for lunch

Tarangalila · C/Del Mar,34 · Tel: 96 391 02 55 Open every day from 14 to 15.30h and 21.30 to 2h (closed Sun mid-day). International cuisine, accompanied by drag queens (“La Prohibida” and the son of Lydia Peters) singing every evening. Very popular, especially with groups.

HOT Erotic Restaurante • Padre Porta. Open Saturdays only, from 23 (or so) to 6h. Striptease performances by male and female strippers. now becoming a ‘hot’ dance venue with Valencia’s vanguard D.J.’s. Keep ‘em peeled.

Spain Rent A Car

Are you looking for an Austin Best Restaurant? Then you should be really happy as Austin city has got numerous options for you. One such option is the Carmelo’s Austin. This restaurant is absolutely Austin’s answer to a standard Sicilian kitchen. The place is spiced with continental chic. The place is popular for using all the fresh ingredients in the right quantity and in a perfect style. As soon as you enter the premises of this restaurant, you come across the pungent smells of garlic, ginger and few other ingredients that surely raises your hunger pangs!

At Carmelo’s Austin, you also get to listen to accordion. Yes, the instrument that is very rarely played in the restaurants. You also experience a group of limestone buildings which open to a charming village of Taormine where the Carmelo was born. The place has got some of the best Italian pastas, some of the best wines and of course, the best of desserts. It is surely one Austin Best Restaurant. For your convenience, the reservations are also available online. The special dishes of this restaurant include pasta, veal, beef, seafood and some very soecial poultry dishes. The pastry selection of this place is also very famous. One of the best features of this restaurant is that it also serves you a great vegetarian menu on demand. The wait-staff is very friendly and cooperating. The vegetarian menu is also served with great care and innovation. The Carmelo has also got four private rooms. These rooms may accomodate around ten to three hundred persons at a time. Various holiday parties, birthday parties, business meetings and receptions are arranged at the banquet halls of the restaurant. The large groups of conventioneers and the visitors can be seated at a moment’s notice if a room is available. The Carmelo was established in 1985.

One more Austin Best Restaurant is the Louie’s 106. This Austin Restaurant has been a very popular food joint among the Austinites since the time of it’s opening. It was opened in 1986. The restaurant was also given the first place in the Austin Chronicle People Poll. It is surely one of the best Austin things to do. The Louie’s 106 restaurant features four private rooms that cater to groups from 10 – 60 and spread across 2 levels. These are also equipped with an open kitchen on the main floor. Louie’s 106 offers various delicious flavours of over three hindred wine labels. Due to it’s high quality wine, the restaurant has also won the Award of Excellence from the Wine Spectator ten years in a row. This is really a big achievement for it.

The Louie’s 106 is indeed one of Austin Best Restaurant. Even the appetizers that are served here, represent an engaging mixture of sophistication and great taste. For example, the escargots are sauteed in garlic and white wine and served with herb walnut butter. Together these ingredients give a perfect taste. The tender snail and the yummy garlic plus butter just melt in your mouth. The menu of this place has got tapas which are the legendary appetizers of Spain. The place is also considered an exciting way to dine. Certain flavors are just mixed here such as carpaccio of tuna with fire roasted Nann bread, char grilled beef tenderloin, and Morraccan BBQ Shrimp. These combinations are rarely found at other places. Louie’s 106 also offers sumptuous lunch and dinner menus featuring daily specials from the rotisserie chicken, beef, lamb and fish; paella, pastas, risottos, bouillabaisse, grilled vegetables and salads.

The Roy’s Austin Restaurant is also regarded as the Austin Best Restaurant. It was originally introduced in Honolulu, Hawaii by the internationally acclaimed Chef known as Roy Yamaguchi in 1988. Since that time it has become very popular through out the world for its wonderful and unique cuisine and also the cutting-edge wine list. The aloha kind of service has also got it’s contribution for popularizing the place. Visiting this place may let you experience one of the best Austin day trips. Roy invested keeping in mind the childhood memories of the feelings and flavors of Hawaii. He refers to this style as the ‘Hawaiian Fusion’. The cuisine available here is a tempting combination of superb flavors and spices that are mixed with the freshest of local ingredients. The open exhibition kitchen is a priority within the interior design of this place. This provides a constant flow of energy, which permeates the restaurant also make the customers feel happy and relaxed. The restaurant has also got an elegant private dining room. This area seats around forty persons at a time. The parties are also held here which let the customers experience a very good time. Since the time of it’s opening, the place has freely blended the European techniques. The results of using such techniques is that you experience a truly contemporary style of cuisine. The menu of Roy’s Austin changes everyday but some classics always stay on the menu.

The Castle Hill Cafe is an independent Austin restaurant which came into business in 1986. It is located at West 5th street. It is there for the last 22 years and is regarded as an Austin Best Restaurant by many people. The restaurant was reopened with the name Corazon at the Castle Hill. It now includes a bar and a lounge area and also a full liquor license. This restaurant tried to grew in a rapid manner due to the surrounding demographic situations and by realising the rise of vibrant business in the neighbourhod. The main idea of this restaurant was to make their customers feel comfortable either they come for a lunch, dinner, brunch or for just a simple cup of coffee. In this feel-cozy attitude for the customers, the waitstaff of the restaurant has got a big hand. All the waiters of this place are well-trained and they are very much commited to their clients. The wait-staff is also very friendly. The dining room area of this place is full of energy and delight. It is a combination of romance and beauty. The bar of this Cafe Hill restaurant also provides the Happy Hours for drink specials.

The private dining rooms are also available in the Castle Hill Cafe which let you think that you are sitting in Austin Best Restaurant. These rooms are also available for the pleasant events like the wedding receptions, the birthday parties, anniversaries, special lunches and dinners of the corporates. The restaurant tries its best to bring some unique flavours of Austin eating for the Austinites. It also serves some unique Mexican cuisines. Just when you enter the restaurant, you feel the warmth in the surroundings through the touch of oranges, yellows and dark reds. The lanterns and their exotic lights remind you of the good old peaceful time when life was not that rushy. The whole restaurant has got a very nice balance when it comes to it’s interior. The linen napkins and the appetizer plates are really special. The restaurant has also got the Mexican craftwork which really gels in the restaurant. There are many tasty dishes available, some of which have been a part to the older form of the restaurant. These special gold-from-old variety includes the smoked pork tenderloin flautas, shrimp enchiladas and also the multi-cast cherry- chutney that has been sundried.

many to choose from how do you decide where to go?

Having lived in Skipton all my life (31 years) and with a tummy that never stops rumbling I thought I’d share my top 5 Skipton Restaurants’ with you………

Number Five – Sam Houston’s, Water Street, Skipton

Sam’s back was the message earlier this year and yes he’s back with a bang! Sam Houston’s opened its doors over 20 years ago bringing Tex Mex to the Gateway to the Yorkshire Dales. Sam’s re-opened under new management earlier this year and pride themselves on serving fresh, affordable Mexican food in traditional surroundings.

20 years on it’s fiesta time again in Sunny Skipton!

Number Four – Emporio Italia, Mill Bridge, Skipton

A new addition to the Skipton scene this summer, Emporio Italia is a great place for evening meals as well as a tasty lunch. It aims to build on the solid reputation already established by their sister restaurant in nearby town Ilkley. The place is authentic Italian throughout, from the background music to the red neckerchiefs worn by the chefs and the dried provisions for sale on shelves. The food is delicious, but it tastes twice as good because of the staff’s abundant enthusiasm!

Lunch of Pizza or Pasta is around £6. Dinner offers early bird menu, Pizza / Pasta or more individual options from £7 upwards.

At Emporio Italia you really could be on a gondola in Venice!

Number Three – Nosh, Newmarket Street, Skipton

Following the move from Devonshire Place to its current location within the Boutique 25 restaurant (in my former dentists) it brings back (not so happy) memories of my childhood! One glimpse of the stylish decor and a couple of pre-meal cocktails in 25 below, the in-house cocktail and champagne bar, remove all fears! Serving excellent, well presented fresh food and deliciously sweet desserts (not sure my dentist would approve)

Number Two – Aeolos, Cavendish Street, Skipton

I visited this place for the first time only three weeks ago! Situated away from the High Street (formally No1) this place is sometimes overlooked by hungry diners but it’s certainly a place I wouldn’t forget in a hurry!

The old Victorian building has been decorated sympathetically with pergolas, vines and grapes but still keeps all its beautiful grand house features. As Skipton’s only greek restaurant, complete with dancing and traditional plate smashing, this place really comes alive.

The Meze is certainly not for the faint hearted but highly recommended!

Number One – Canalside, Coach Street, Skipton

Formally the Waterfront Nightclub and previously “The Barge” (before my time!) the Canalside is set in one of Skipton’s landmark buildings. It offers fresh, home cooked fare in a wonderful picturesque location on the banks of the Leeds – Liverpool Canal.

With an excellent Sunday Lunch for friends coupled with great value “early bird” deals,The Canalside is my number one choice when eating out in Skipton!

Cuba is a country that has a blend of different cultures and the Cuban cuisine reflects it. Cuba is famous for its lovely beaches, diving, and lifestyle and dancing. But, in spite of the influences of various countries like Spain, China, Africa, Portuguese, France and Arabic, Cuba has been successful in creating a unique flavor to its cuisine. Visitors to Cuba are fascinated by the cuisines of Cuba.

Cuban food makes use of local root vegetables like yucca, malanga and boniato. Cuban food also predominantly uses chicken, pork and beef although sparingly marinated in citrus juice and is mildly roasted to get a tender form. These dishes although simple to make, are delicious and are preferred by the visitors and locals alike.

Cuba is also known for simpler snacks and lighter treats that are made of lightly fried pork cuts, kebabs known as pinchos and the Cuban hamburger that is spiced with potatoes and onion known as fritas. But vegetarians can be starved, if they happen to visit Cuba because vegetarianism is literally unheard of, for reasons more than one in Cuba, except for a handful of rice and bean dishes and some local fruits.

Mango and guava are the fruits that are used for a variety of dishes and jellies. Rice dishes are also produced by Goya, rice and black beans and tasteful yellow rice. The meals are served with a variety of sauces and spices. Although tea is a favorite drink in Cuba, the tastes of light and dark coffee and cappuccino are just out of this world.

Meats are available in meals and desserts are served along with a cup of coffee or tea. Coffee takes a unique place in the Cuban culture and drinking coffee is done as rituals or social events. Cuban coffee is often served in smaller containers as against the traditional mug of steamy coffee because Cuban coffee is stronger than many other commercial coffees. The after dinner Cuban coffee is prepared in an espresso maker or perked on a stove top.

Cuban desserts are the sweetest in the world. Cuban sandwiches are made with Cuban bread that is slightly roasted and contains roast pork, ham pickles and cheese and mustard and make a delicious lunch food. Costillitas is a typical Cuban food made with citrus, garlic and herbs and cooked till tender and served with black bean and rice. Ropa vieja is one of the most popular dishes of Cuba, made from beef and vegetables in a sauce and locals say that it tastes better a day after preparation when the flavors mingle together. So, the Cuban cuisine contributes to one of the reasons to visit Cuba along with its attractions of beaches and dance.