SEVILLE, SPAIN I’ve written about how Eslava served up the best bite I’ve ever taken in - Huevo sobre bizcocho de boletus edulis y trufa (egg yok on boletus sponge cake and truffle). And the surprise and delights didn’t stop there. This bustling restaurant did everything right from the personable service, the multi-sensorial tastes one after the other, and the setting. When i answer the call back to Seville I’ll be back in front of that bite again too!

PARIS, FRANCE This bistro captured my heart 6 years ago and I've waited that long to return! A must-dine in Paris - the food delivers and then some, the waiters are charismatic and so much fun and the wine list is a big book of decadence. And did I mention it looks every part of the classic bistro. Seriously, make a reservation and thank me later. I’ll be back for sure!

SAN SEBASTIÁN, SPAIN - Basque cheesecake not only opened my eyes to this different interpretation of something I honestly never much cared for, but landed atop my favorite desserts list. It’s all at once light, decadent and creamy. It’s joy on a plate and La Vina from their vibe to their waitstaff to the rest of their dishes delivers it so memorably I made it my first stop when I returned to San Sebastián 7 years later.

HOI AN, VIETNAM Mezcal may not be the first spirit you think of when you think Vietnam but this hidden gem with second floor balcony overlooking the action boasts a super friendly waitstaff and expertly crafted sips.

HONG KONG Small mixology haven tucked away behind a hard to find street and door in Hong Kong. Drinks were delicious, wait staff are chill and the crowd is adventurous and curious. A tasty respite in a city full of flavor!

PARIS, FRANCE This cozy little hideaway in the Ritz is sexy and secretive. Sip a Negroni with top shelf vermouth or whatever suits your fancy in this legendary spot as its lore and luxury wash over you.

PANICALE, ITALY One of my all-time favorite dinners in Italy. From its quaint perch above Panicale’s town square, Lillo Tatini serves up such a memorable meal. You won’t be disappointed in the food and the ambiance and family service is so charming and absolutely best in class. I dream of going back! https://www.lillotatini.it/

ORVIETO, ITALY What a find in a town has every bit of the charm promised. The plates here were inventive but not overly produced. The room felt special and warm filled with families on the Sunday afternoon I was lucky enough to dine there. The tartare was fantastic, their interpretation of Cacio e Pepe was an exquisite taste I’ll never forget. And dessert. Save room for the dessert!

ROME, ITALY I love this place. Love it. I’ve been 3x over the last 7 years and even hit up their New York location last summer. There’s an energy and a passion for Italian food that just bursts from its doors and plates. Fun waitstaff, a vibe that should make Rome proud, and tastes that can’t help but keep you coming back again and again.