By The Food Tease on May 24, 2015
One of my favorite things to do when I travel to a foreign destination is, I make it a point to try their local food fare. In my opinion local dishes represent the heart and culture of that particular area. Dishes that we see locals buying to bring back home to their families, dishes that have been in families for decades and have been passed down generation to generation…these are the meals that I long for and hunt for during my travels!
I was very fortunate to have a member of the Riviera Maya tourism board guide me when I requested a local food tour. I couldn’t stress enough to my guide that I did not want to be taken to local tourist traps or anything of the sort. I wanted an authentic experience of both food and culture and that’s exactly what I got!
My tour started bright and early in order for me to start the day on the right foot or in my case a tummy full of delicious local cuisine. As we made our way to the first of many eateries, I was asked if I had a ‘healthy appetite’…oh, how they would quickly learn that asking me that, was such a silly question. It’s ok, over the course of the day they knew better than to doubt the Food Tease when I say I’m hungry.
Arriving at our destination for breakfast, I couldn’t help but feel like we had just driven hundreds of miles out of Playa Del Carmen, as this restaurant was a complete contradiction to the city setting in which we were just in. Breakfast was about to take place in the beautiful jungle-like setting of La Cueva del Chango restaurant. Having a table in the middle of this outdoor veranda with the sun trying to poke through the array of trees surrounding this eatery was picturesque and very Zen like. Zen with its cascading waterfalls, bamboo décor and lush trees that relaxed me as I sat down and took it all in.
I was told that Cueva del Chango was the best place to have an authentic Mexican breakfast and that the restaurant is typically always hard to get in as it’s always packed with patrons. And with that said I requested some of their signature dishes: Molletes and Plain Chilaquiles with chicken. The cheesy and very filling molletes were delicious as it reminded me of a hearty grilled cheese but with the added freshness of the pico de gallo sauce. Big chunks of avocados went hand in hand with the oozing molletes. Very reminiscent to nachos, the chilaquiles with chicken drowning in the cascabel chili sauce (in case you are wondering it wasn’t spicy) was both flavorful and plentiful. This dish had to be eaten with my hands at the end of it, to pick up all the last pieces of tortilla chips- messy it was but worth every finger lick! And of course it was served yet again with generous slices of avocados…also known as Mexico’s butter! Oh, I almost forgot…I can’t leave out one of my favorite new discoveries while I was on my trip – which I consumed heavily during my time in Cancun: Chaya juice, but everyone refers to it as the ‘green juice’. It’s made with orange juice, pineapple juice and Chaya leaves. Chaya leaves are said to have medicinal properties ranging from improving memory, lowering cholesterol to combatting diabetes. Regardless of the positive health benefits that it can provide, I found this drink super refreshing and left me craving for more! You’ll understand once you’ve tried it.
Chaya juice a.k.a. green juice: Chaya leaves, orange juice and pineapple juice.
Molletes: whole wheat bread with refried beans, grated Manchego style cheese served with ‘pico de gallo’ like sauce – avocadoes, tomatoes and onions.
Plain Chilaquiles: corn tortillas with chicken and green tomatoes smothered in cascabel chili sauce served with sour cream, onions, fresh cilantro and avocado slices.
Feeling happy and content with such a hearty breakfast it was now time to leave Cueva del Chango and head towards our next local hotspot. Walking downtown Playa Del Carmen, I took in all the scenery….from the sidewalk stores offering their ‘daily specials’ to tourists such as myself to the beautiful landscape that this beautiful destination has to offer. Talking with my guide, I couldn’t help but feel like the stereotypical tourist. Always wanting to stop and take photos and ask endless mount of questions that I am notorious for. I had to remind myself to stop. Stop and just be ‘in the moment’. Photos are nice but real life experience happens when you just live it as opposed to trying to capture it…but I digress.
Our next stop on this ever so hot day was to the Nuestra Senora De Carmen Mercado De Playa. The only way I can describe this locale is to say that it’s like a food market or a very huge food court offering mainly Mexican traditional food. Nuestra Senora De Carmen Mercado De Playa prices are considerably cheaper than those that you would typically find on the ever so popular 5th Avenue (main tourist strip in Playa del Carmen) plus it’s just a couple of blocks away from for one another.
Like I said, this particular day was rather hot and a refreshment of some sort was in need especially since I knew there was more food to come…and that’s when I saw it – my all time favorite: fresh coconut juice and coconut ‘meat’ with some Tajine spices on it. Every time I travel, I try to seize the opportunity to drink fresh coconut juice/water and eat it’s ‘meat’ whenever possible. I was fortunate to discover the wonderful flavors of coconut ‘meat’ with Tajine on my Puerto Vallarta trip.
Ok so now I was set, my palate was being revitalized with the coconut juice, my tummy was satisfied with the coconut meat and so we walked on – enjoying the view and the beautiful and interesting people we met along the way. I must admit I felt really privileged. Here I was walking the streets on one of the most beautiful areas in Mexico with my very own private guide showing me everything that I wanted to know and then some. I couldn’t have asked for a better day…and to say we had only just started the tour.
Fresh coconut water and coconut ‘meat’ with some Tajine spices sprinkled on top
Next up, I was told that we were going to the ‘best’ taco place that Playa del Carmen had to offer. A true local experience I was promised, a place where once you’ve found it you must remember its location as nothing else will compare to it. Such telling words I told myself but I guess the proof would soon be unveiled once we got to our destination.
Tacos de Cecina
Tacos de Cecina, located on 38th street, was already in full force with people lining up to its little taco stand. The smell of grilled beef and onions was intoxicating as it drew you in. I was taken back and surprised seeing the workers at the taco stand wearing surgical looking masks. I enquired about it and was informed that they take hygiene and cross contamination very seriously. I feel bad to say this but, I never would have expected that from a food truck…more food trucks not to mention restaurants should take note of the high level of health and safety rules that some these food trucks have.
The tacos at Tacos de Cecina were ridiculously amazing! The beef and sautéed onions were spot on. To my surprise I also had on my taco some grilled cactus leaves. Now that was delicious! Each taco had the perfect accompaniments if you wanted: lime wedges and salsa ranging in mild to hot.
Beef taco with grilled cactus and onions at Tacos de Cecina
Being the Food Tease that I am, I couldn’t just have ‘one’ of the best tacos – I had to have more…for you, my readers to experience! So off we ventured off to another local hot spot. But this particular area was different from that of Tacos de Cecina. Different in that fact this taco stand was in the midst of a very large open area that was full of food trucks and food carts that ranged in all types of assorted food options.
Cochinita Pibil, was where I had a seasoned pulled pork taco. This taco was very, very flavorful and somewhat spicy given the fact that it had a generous portion of haberno sauce and some pickled red onions. So simple of a meal but man it packed a punch with its flavors. I must admit that the portion of pulled pork was less than what I had expected in a taco but maybe its a good thing. After all, I had more food to discover.
Like I had mentioned earlier there was a variety of food selections that one could indulge and be gluttonous over at this food truck alley…ranging from spicy savory tacos to the refreshing fruit cones that compromised of freshly cut papayas, pineapples and watermelons. And for those of us that can’t resist the tempting fried treats, there were Churritos. Churritos is flour fried in lard then sprinkled with lime juice and salt. They are usually served with a squirt or two of chili sauce to dip into. WARNING: Churritos are highly addictive….even when you’re already full!!!
Fruit cones of fresh papayas, pineapple and watermelon being sold. As well as Churritos (fried flour sprinkled with lime juice and salt). Churritos is something everyone should try at least once.
Cochinita Pibil, food truck that served a very flavorful and spicy pulled pork taco
And what kind of food tour would it be if we didn’t end it on a sweet note?
Now, I personally don’t have a sweet tooth but I couldn’t pass up on the opportunity of trying a Mayan chocolate drink. We stopped and took a well deserved break from the sun at the shaded Ah Cacao Chocolate Café. My Mayan chocolate drink consisted of cinnamon, vanilla, Habanero chili and finished off with some honey…Mayan gods earned their title for this drink!
What can I say? This local food tour was exceptional and it wouldn’t have been possible without the generosity of the Riviera Maya tourism board. The combination of the different dishes that I had to the charming surroundings in which I was enriched with – they both played pivotal roles to making this experience a beautiful one!
Oui, Oui Paris!! 🇨🇵🗼
My City of Love adventure, thanks to @uniworldcruises, was simply AMAZING!!
Discovering Monmartre and other famed locations that Paris is known for during my @retro_tour_paris was a thrilling bucketlist experience!!🇨🇵🗼🏍🥰
This was the ultimate way to see Paris and all its magnificent beauty - a Retro Sidecar adventure.🇨🇵🗼😍
I enjoyed switching from being in the Sidecar to riding back of the motorcycle. What a rush!!🏍
The crowds in Monmartre were sureal and loved taking photos of the Retro Sidecar. My skilled driver, Max, handled driving on the cobblestones with ease, especially as we drove at the famous Arc de Triomphe. I was a bit scared being low to the ground in the Sidecar, but felt safe even though cars were very close!🫣🏍
The Retro Sidecar experience brought me to many unforgettable sights, including the stunning Basilique du Sacré-Cœur de Montmartre - such beauty!
Beauty + Adrenaline = My Paris souvenir, that will last me a lifetime!!🇨🇵🗼🏍 🥰
When in Paris, this adventure is HIGHLY recommended! 👌 😍
#travelblogger #traveldestination #uniworld #ParisNormandy #DreamVacation #ExploreUniworld #retrocar #retrotour #presstrip #paris #monmartre #adrenaline #sidecar #passportready #bucketlist #luxelife #onceinalifetime #alwaystryingnewthings #outdoorfun #parisbyday #ifwtwa1 #tmac #tmactravel #tmacontario #thefoodteasetravel #lovemyjob #pinchme
Nov 3
All things luxurious and gold, this
is @chateauversailles 🏰👸🏼🤩
I had the opportunity to visit this magnificent palace during my S.S. Joie de Vivre voyage thanks to @uniworldcruises🛳🇨🇵
Château de Versailles cheat sheet:
🏰 Louis XIV (Sun King) created it
🏰 Louis XV (The Beloved) enjoyed it
🏰 Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette died in it.
The Palace is absolutely STUNNING!! The decor, fabrics, artistry, and much, much more can easily leave any person in awe! I loved walking through the most famous room of all, The Hall of Mirrors.. such richness and extravagance!! 🪞 😍
What was once a humble hunting lodge is now the opulent Château de Versailles. A time where lavish French royalty and luxury was a must, to becoming a symbol of inequality that incited the French Revolution.
Today, the Château de Versailles contains 2,300 rooms spread over approximately 63,154 square meters. It is one of the most visited palaces in France and a celebrated work of the 17th century. I`m in love with all the gold touches!!😍
Does the photo with the horse look familiar? This is Zeus, the mythical metal horse of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games Opening Ceremony at the Château de Versailles. 🦄
I learned that Marie-Antoinette is the only Queen that influenced Château de Versailles with her own taste and what a distinctive and glamorous taste she had. The photo of the bedroom is actually Marie Antoinette`s room with all the glitzy gold touches that she was known for, especially rich fabrics and draperies.👸🏼🏰
It is an incredible excursion that I recommend to anyone who enjoys history, royalty, art, gardens, and all things beautiful.😍😍
#UniworldCruise #ParisNormandy #DreamVacation #ExploreUniworld #travelblogger #traveldestination #versailles #versaillespalace #versaillesgardens #presstrip ##tripofalifetime #bucketlist #france #francetourisme #rivercruising #highlyrecommended #queenforaday #feelinglikeaprincess #lovemyjob #thefoodtease #thefoodteasetravel ##ifwtwa1 ##tmactravel #tmac
Oct 31
An art lover`s dream as I visited the founder of impressionism, Oscar-Claude Monet`s house, and famed gardens. 🎨🌺✨️
A day of exploration as we cruised along the Seine River, and I couldn`t wait!
@uniworldcruises S.S. Joie de Vivre had me exploring the region of Giverny, Normandy to Monet’s house and gardens. What a historical and artistic treat!! 🎨 🌺🤩
This was the second time I`ve had the pleasure of visiting the painter`s house, and let me tell you, the magic was still there and so much still to discover. The endless flowers throughout the gardens were breathtaking and left me in awe! 😍😍
For a food lover, Monet’s kitchen was truly impressive...I can only imagine the dishes that were made and happily devoured. 😋
Picture perfect afternoon with Monet. My S.S. Joie de Vivre journey continues... 🤩🤩
#UniworldCruise #ParisNormandy #DreamVacation #ExploreUniworld #foodblogger #traveldestination
#travelblogger #monet #monetgarden #giverny #cruising #rivercruising #francetourisme #normandie #thefoodteasetravel #lovemyjob #ifwtwa1 #tmac #tmacontario #tmactravel #normandie
Oct 26
I am absolutely thrilled to share that I was invited by @uniworldcruises as their special guest to experience their luxurious Paris & Normandy river cruise!!
🇨🇵🛳😍
I couldn`t wait to indulge in their finest amenities, explore the stunning sights of France, and create unforgettable memories.
The stunning S.S. Joie de Vivre is such a beauty, and there is so much to share. She was my floating hotel for a week, and I was open to all the adventures she was going to give. Staying in the Deluxe French Balcony stateroom spoiled me with the option of opening the grand window to take in the fresh air while enjoying the river views. What more could you ask for in terms of luxury?!🤩🤩
Everything from the opulent French inspired glitzy decor of the ship (inspired by 20th-century Parisian design) to the attention to detail to pamper guests like their handcrafted Savoir Beds of England was topnotch. To add more pampering, their impressive marble bathroom had everything to spoil your body, including a rainfall shower, heated floors, and heated towel warmer. Attention to detail from start to finish.
A heartfelt thank you to Uniworld for this amazing opportunity - I am truly grateful!
Let the Joie de Vivre adventure begin! 🇨🇵🛳😍🗼
#travelblogger #foodblogger #rivercruising #traveldestination
#presstrip #uniworld
#ssjoiedevivre #UniworldCruise #ParisNormandy #DreamVacation #ExploreUniworld #waunderlust #passportready #bucketlist #france #francetourisme #thefoodteasetravel #ifwtwa1 #tmactravel #tmac #luxelife #cruising #thefoodteasedrinks #lovemyjob #luxury #luxurylifestyle
Oct 22
The perfect marriage - garlic escargots and @moetchandon Ice Imperial Champagne 🍾 🥂😍😍
If you haven`t had the pleasure of tasting this incredibly refreshing Champagne, then I`d suggest you do it and do it now!! You`ll thank me for it😉😋
What is unique about this Champagne is the fact that it was created to be served over ice, hence its name - Ice Imperial. It is the perfect accompaniment to any dish or simply alone...sheer perfection!!
Here`s to more `occasions` or `simply because` 😉
Cheers🥂
#foodblogger #travelblogger #foodphotography #foodporn #champagne #champagnelover #icechampagne #moet #moetchandon #anyoccasion #justbecause #escargot #luxelife #thefoodteaseeats #thefoodteasedrinks #ifwtwa1 #tmac #tmacontario
Oct 12
Continuing my tradition of indulging at @martinpicard epic @cabaneaupieddecochon, this year`s harvest season happened to be their ALL STAR EDITION!!🤩🤩
This meant they would be `reviving some of their old and most beautiful harvest dishes ever conceived.` And they didn`t disappoint!! 😋😋 Indulgence taken to new heights!!
Here is the incredibly tasty lineup that was feasted on:
🍄 Scallop with mushrooms and corn coulis
🦆 Duck tartar with shiso leaves
🍕 Pizza: tomato pie with Dijon bechamel sauce
🥗 Burrata fruit salad: cucumbers, plums, mint leaves, melon coulis, and croutons
🐟 Salt cooked Trout with leek, tomato, and lobster bisque
🍛 Squash soup: squash, Foie Gras, Amaretti biscuits, gruyère cheese, and honey crisp apples
🐑 Lamb saddle with pork fat, sausages, and creamy polenta with a pepper sauce
🍆 Stuffed eggplant with smoked ham and tomato vodka sauce
🦆🐖 Shepherds pie with duck and pork
🥕🍰 Carrot cake: Classic staple recipe. Sunflower seeds, hazelnuts, and pumpkin seeds served with a carrot juice jelly
🥧 Apple pie with maple syrup, Foie Gras and cheddar cheese crème fraîche
🍫Choux pastry and chocolate ganache with raspberry cream and mint. Berries and herbs were picked directly from the on-site garden
It is an incredible feast for those who enjoy ingredients cooked and elevated in the most creative way!!
Till next year 😋
#foodblogger #foodphotography #foodporn #foodwriter #travelwriter #feastagram #feast #gluttony #classicrecipe #harvest #martinpicard #tradition #thefoodteaseeats #ifwtwa1 #tmac #thefoodteasetravel #thefoodtease
Oct 10
"Cook with love always, and people will feel it" - Chef @antonyannick70
It was a pleasure and honour to witness Chef Yannick Anton from @lecordonbleuottawa receive the Chevalier de L`Ordre du Mérite Agricole.
This award, bestowed by the French Ministry of Agriculture, recognizes his contribution to promoting French culture in Ottawa and across Canada through his work as a chef and culinary instructor.
🇨🇵 🇨🇦🧑🍳
Read about his extraordinary career in my article published in the Fall issue of @luxeottawamagazine
A lifelong passion for his craft - Congratulations again, Chef!!🏅🤩
#travelblogger #foodblogger #travelwriter #foodwriter #chef #cheflife #chevalier #meriteagricole #prestigious #accolades #frenchculture #promoting #published #luxelife #tmac #tmacontario #ifwtwa1 #frenchchef
Oct 1
It`s been a busy couple of weeks, but I wanted to share the love on this `must visit` eatery.😍😋
It was a treat to discover and dine at @amusekanata! This charming restaurant delivers BIG on flavourful dishes. It`s perfect for sharing and discovering new ingredients. A true gem! 🔥🙌
Here is the list of the tasty dishes that my table enjoyed:
🧀 TORCHED BRIE
🐟 TUNA AND SCALLOP TARTARE
🥩 STEAK TARTARE
🥩 BISON CARPACCIO
🍄 MUSHROOMS ON TOAST
🧀 HALOUMI
🐑LAMB SHANK
Both the restaurant ambiance and hospitality were top-notch...A must try! 😋😍
#foodblogger #foodporn #foodphotography #newexperiences
#sharingplates #sharing #ottawarestaurants #supportlocalbusiness #newdiscovery #amuse #amusekitchen #musttry #wantmore #thefoodtease #thefoodteaseeats #tmac #tmactravel #ifwtwa1 #indulgence #livetoexplore #livetoeat
Sep 26
Vegas wouldn’t be complete without visiting Freemont Street and taking in breathtaking sunset views from @stratvegas Tower. 😍😍
Experiencing a ride to the top of the Tower, at 1,149 feet tall - the tallest freestanding observation tower in the United States for a 2nd time, did not disappoint!! 😱😍
Several years ago I experienced the thrill of the X-SCREAM roller coaster - it "teeter totters you over the edge of the Tower from 866 feet high, propelling riders head first 27 feet over the edge of the tower. After being shot over the edge, passengers are dangled weightlessly above the Las Vegas Strip before being pulled back and propelled again. " 😱😱🎢 It was a BLAST, but this time around, I was a viewer... perhaps on my next visit 😉
Seeing the Vegas views and watching the incredible visual display of the @spherevegas was incredible.
All must do`s when in Vegas!!
#traveldestination #travelblogger #vegas #travelwriter #travelphotography #thrillingrides #vegastrip #strat #sphere #vacation #thrill #awesome #funtimes #getaway #tmactravel #tmac #ifwtwa1 #thefoodteasetravel #freemontstreet #mustsee #mustdotravels
Sep 15
Indulgence of any kind is a good one in my book, and indulging in a carnivorous feast at the award-winning Bazaar Meat by José Andrés, Las Vegas was EPIC!!🤩🤩😋
The attention to detail from both the back and front of the house was beyond exceptional. It was a true celebration of meat! 🥩🥩
I was in a very addictive meat trance - I loved every dish.🦪🥩😋😍
For the outstanding carnivore feast, these are the dishes that I feasted on:
✳️ Caviar Cone: crème fraîche, classic Ossetra caviar. 🤩🤩
✳️ A5 "Philly Cheesesteak": airbread, cheddar, Wagyu beef. 🔥🔥😋😋
This dish was HEAVEN in your mouth, that a second order was needed.
✳️ Sloppy Joe: beef Bolognese, steamed bun, straw potatoes.
✳️ First time tasting Shigoku oysters from Samish Bay, Washington, and they didn`t disappoint. 🦪🦪
✳️ Bone-In Strip Loin, Washugyu/Angus Blend. 🥩😋
✳️ Chateaubriand, Tenderloin, Holstein: (Brandt Beef, CA) Périgordine sauce and straw potatoes.
✳️ Buttered Potato Purée: butter, butter, more butter, some potatoes.😱😍
So silky smooth, it should be illegal!!
It was a bucket list item of mine to eat at this award-winning restaurant by this outstanding chef and humanitarian. 😊😊
Chef @chefjoseandres is founder of @wckitchen World Central Kitchen - first in the frontlines providing fresh meals in response to humanitarian, climate, and community crises. A real inspiration 🙌
#foodblogger #foodphotography
#foodporn #travelblogger #carnivore #feastagram #feast #joseandres #vegas #lasvegas #bucketlist #indulgence #epicfood #awardwinning #humanitarian #thefoodtease #thefoodteaseeats ##ifwtwa1 #tmactravel #tmac #meat #meatlover #meatporn #caviar #wagyu
Sep 13
Hello Arizona, and your jaw-dropping natural wonders! 😍😍
I didn`t think I could make the long bus ride from Vegas to Arizona to see the beautiful Canyon "X" in 40° degree heat... but I made it. It was hot, BUT it was sooo worth it!!
Light peaking through the incredibly beautiful and surprisingly smooth Canyon X was just spectacular. It`s amazing what nature can create. Canyon X is a hidden treasure in the heart of the Navajo Nation.
The 2nd photo displays why the canyon is called Canyon "X" - the opening of the canyon with the sky in the backdrop naturally forms the "X" formation.
Overall, the canyon trip surpassed all of my expectations, and I`m happy that I had the opportunity to see the canyon up close and be in the moment, on the sacred land. 😍😍
A must-see!!
#travelblogger #foodblogger #nature #hiddentreasures #naturephotography #naturalphenomenon #canyon #canyonx #navajonation #mustsee #tourist #bucketlist #desert #hiking #hikingadventures #tmac #tmactravel #ifwtwa1 #thefoodtease
Sep 11
From Nevada ➡️ Utah ➡️ Arizona to visit and explore incredible natural sights, including the famous Horseshoe Bend.
It was an incredible day seeing this sight up close.😍😍
The stunning Horseshoe Bend in @visit_arizona also referred to as the "east rim of the Grand Canyon". A geologic masterpiece sculpted by the Colorado River. I must admit that I was nervous taking these photo, as there are no rails or gates to prevent any accidents...and it`s very slippery. 😱
It was the perfect day to explore and get away from the glitz and bright lights of Vegas...atleast for a brief time😉😂
#travelblogger #foodblogger #traveldestination #travelwriter #arizona #horseshoebend #sightseeing #naturalphotography #nature #naturephotography #getaway #tmactravel #tmac #ifwtwa1 #thefoodtease #playingtourist #coloradoriver
Sep 8
Hello Sin City, it`s been a while😈😉
A getaway at the stunning @resortsworldlv, specifically Crockfords Hotel, made for a great trip to disconnect, have fun, and discover new things!🍹🍸🎰
Nightlife on the strip is a sensory overload... but that`s part of the fun😉
Delicious mojitos by the Crockfords pool made the scorching 40°degree weather bearable.🥵🥵🍹🍹
The mind-blowing @spherevegas is a literal driving distraction - its graphics are simply amazing!!😱😱
Love seeing the Venetian gondolas in action.
Stay tuned for some tasty activities, including some beautiful desert sights! 😃
#travelblogger #foodblogger
#vegas #lasvegas #lasvegasstrip #longweekend #disconnect #recharge #vegasbaby #onthestrip #friendsvacation #sphere #crockfords #ifwtwa1 #tmac #tmactravel #thefoodtease
Sep 5
The @brookstreetott hotel is a dreamy setting for couples embarking on their marital journey, especially with their all-in-one location. 🤩🤩
Discover their exclusive curated services in my recently published article featured in the Fall/Winter issue of the @ottawawedding magazine.
● Premiere wedding venue 💍✅️
● 18-hole championship golf course ⛳️✅️
● Exceptional cuisine 🍽 ✅️
Make your next stay a memorable one with the Brookstreet Hotel!
#foodblogger #travelblogger #traveldestination #weddingvenue #ottawa #championshipgolfcourse #golfcourse #curated #awardwinning #getaway #ottawawedding #ottawaweddings #travelwriter #ottawaweddingmagazine #published #lovemyjob #ifwtwa1 #tmactravel #tmac #tmacontario
Aug 24
An evening out to @anabellaskitchenandlounge was exactly what I needed...friendly hospitality, tasty flavourful dishes, and the perfect ambiance to enjoy a beautiful outing. 😊😋
Amongst the appetizers, I chose their HIGHLY addictive zucchini crisps, which were the bomb!! This is one dish where you wish they had endless offerings!!
😍😍
Another tasty appetizer was their arancini - simply flavourful. And the piece de résistance was their refreshing grilled Halloumi Salad. It was watermelon sweet and Halloumi salty...Simply perfect! They nailed this salad with all the different flavours.
The perfect summer outing!😊😋
#foodblogger #travelblogger #foodphotography #foodporn #ottawa #ottawarestaurants #supportlocalbusiness #diningout #summervibes #summerouting #thefoodteasedrinks #thefoodteaseeats #ifwtwa1 #tmac #tmactravel
Aug 17
Summer means...
BBQ time ✅️
Gardening ✅️
Relaxing ✅️
🪻🌺🐝🥩😍😋
Summer love...BBQ season in full effect!! 😋😍 These marinated pork blade steaks were delicious!!🥩😋
Basil, Thai basil, tarragon, and parsley... my little garden is growing!
Green thumb in full effect!! 🌺🪻
Love my lavender, and so do the 🐝 🐝
#foodblogger #foodphotography #foodporn #travelblogger #summer #summervibes #bbq #bbqlovers #garden #herb #herbgarden #greenthumb #lavender #summerrelax #timewellspent #thefoodtease #thefoodteaseeats #ifwtwa1 #tmac #goodtimes
Jul 28
Yesterday afternoon, I had the privilege of attending the "buffets des chefs," a delicious gathering at the French Embassy @franceaucanada in partnership with the Disciples d’Escoffier Canada. @disciples_escoffier_canada 🇨🇵🇨🇦
This tasty celebration included Disciples d’Escoffiers, chefs from @lecordonbleuottawa and @maisonoddo 👨🍳👩🏼🍳
The culinary event also included @veroniquerivest renown sommelier and owner of @soifbaravin being awarded as Knight in The Order of Agricultural Merit
(Ordre du Mérite agricole) for her constant promotion of oenology and French wines and terroirs. It is an order of merit bestowed by the French Republic for outstanding contributions to agriculture and food/gastronomy. Bravo!! 🍷🍷👏 👏
Another special moment included the induction of Ambassador Michel Miraillet as a new Disciple. When a new Disciple is inducted, he then undertakes to respect the Escoffier Spirit by taking this oath: "I vow to pass, serve and honor the cuisine, its culture and its continuing evolution".🎖🎖
Guests were spoiled with an endless assortment of French appetizers and delectable sweets, all with whom were created by talented chefs who are driven by passion. 😍👩🏼🍳👨🍳
Bravo to you all!!👏👏
#foodblogger #travelblogger #foodphotography #foodporn #escoffier #disciplesescoffier #knighted #culinary #induction #frenchcuisine #frenchfood #culinaryevent #buffets #thefoodteaseeats #thefoodtease #celebration #ifwtwa1 #tmac
Jun 28
Those who know me know I`m weak for tasty popcorn and @fromfarmtotablecanada
spoiled me with theirs!! 🍿 😋
Proudly Ontario-made and woman-owned, From Farm to Table Canada has debuted their limited-edition CNE Kettle Corn in collaboration with the Canadian National Exhibition @letsgototheex for the 2024 season.Their beautiful package illustrations captures the fun that we have, when at the CNE 🎢.
It`s the perfect blend of sweet and salty - my favourite!! 😍
They are available in two sizes: Family Bag and Grab & Go. Sold online as well as in retail chains and many independent stores.
This must-have snack for the summer is available until Labour Day.
Get yours today and enjoy!!🍿🍿
Jun 27
A couple of evenings ago, I had the pleasure and honour of being invited by my alma mater, @lecordonbleuottawa to witness Chef @antonyannick70 be awarded France`s L`Ordre du mérite agricole, the highest civilian honour from the embassy @franceaucanada 😃
This distinction recognizes the contributions of Chef Yannick to promote French culture in Canada and Ottawa specifically - through his work as a chef and instructor at Le Cordon Bleu Institute in Ottawa.
Special moments of the evening included Ambassador of France to Canada, Michel Miraillet sharing with guests the numerous accomplishments that Chef Yannick Anton has accomplished over the years. Simply remarkable!!👏👏
A very touching and inspiring moment came when Chef Yannick Anton gave praise and gratitude to his mentors, who helped him attain his dream in the culinary industry. He also reminded the graduating class of chefs to always have a vision and to never let it go.👨🍳👩🏼🍳😍
And it wouldn`t be a celebration without some tasty treats that exude French flare! They even had chocolate graduation hats - very cute and apropo 🎓🎓
Bravo Chef!!😊
Jun 22
Muy Caliente!!🔥🔥🌞🌞
With the insanely hot weather, nothing is more refreshing than this tasty Brazilian lemonade with some @bacardi Gold
Rum for the win!!🤩😋
And let me tell you, a pitcher was made...as it`s THAT delicious!!
At this rate, I will finally start to enjoy the summer heat...providing I have my `special` lemonade!😉
Cheers!
#foodblogger #travelblogger #cocktails #cocktailporn #brazilianlemonade #braziliandrink #summerdrinks #bacardi #rum #summerheat #summerheatwave #lemonadeforadults #thefoodteasedrinks #ifwtwa1 #tmac #enjoylife #enjoythemoment
Jun 17
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