Vegetarian Dining in Barcelona

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Vegetarian Dining in Barcelona

Seafood and meat are staples in Catalan cuisine. Given Barcelona's proximity to the sea, it is no surprise that the Catalan capital is a seafood haven. However, this does not mean non-meat eaters are faced with limited dining options in Barcelona. With a growing number of vegetarians and vegans in the city, there is a rise in the number of eateries that can accommodate meat-free diets – just perfect for veggie-loving travellers:

1. Juicy Jones

This hip vegan eatery is popular among the locals for its fresh juices and affordable brunch options. The colourful interiors of Juicy Jones is reflective of the food and beverages that it offers, and contributes to the eatery's funky yet relaxed atmosphere. Who says a plant-based diet is dull? Certainly not at this eatery. 

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2. My Pillow Cafe 

Fast food can be vegetarian and healthy, as long as fresh, quality ingredients are used its preparation. My Pillow Cafe does just that, offering diners with a variety of vegetarian fare in a fast food setting. You will find a wide selection of dishes such as tapas, burgers, dumplings, wraps, noodles, soup and fries at affordable prices. Vegan and gluten-free items are also available here. 

3. Santoni Cafeteria

Santoni Cafeteria may not have an entirely vegetarian or vegan menu, but it can certainly accommodate non-meat eaters. This family-run eatery offers a separate vegan menu, and is well loved for its homemade sandwiches, pizzas, salads and pastries. Meat options are also served, making this a convenient dining spot for vegetarians with meat-loving travel companions. Whatever your dietary preferences are, the highly popular chocolate croissant is one treat you cannot miss. 

4. Cafe Camelia

This casual vegetarian cafe sits close to Park Guell, one of Gaudi's most notable works in Barcelona. Cafe Camelia draws a crowd of locals who frequent the cafe for brunch or an afternoon coffee break, and features a menu with vegan and vegetarian options. A good selection of desserts makes this an ideal place for vacation makers in the vicinity looking for a spot to indulge in sweet treats. 

5. Gaudi Bakery

You will find an array of vegan and gluten-free items on the vegetarian-friendly menu at Gaudi Bakery. Despite the eatery's proximity to La Sagrada Familia, one of Barcelona's major tourist attractions, the dishes here are reasonably priced. Fond favourites among patrons include the desserts, sandwiches, salads and savoury pancakes. 

6. Home-dining Experience

Fancy a feast of paella? Or, perhaps a spread of scrumptious tapas dishes? Dine with Yves, and he will whip up a storm of Spanish culinary delights that will whet your appetite. Cooking lessons are included in the dining experience, which means that you will get to enjoy an authentic taste of Spain long after your travels. 

The menu can be customised to suit different dietary preferences. Please state any dietary restrictions during your booking process.

 

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Must-Try Foods in Venice

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Must-Try Foods in Venice

You may be visiting Venice for the renowned Carnival of Venice, or just traversing her beautiful grounds for sight-seeing. For the best local dishes you may also like to dine with the locals and get a taste of the true Venetian culinary experience.

Either way, don’t leave this city without having a taste of these Venetian classics. Finding the best Venice food is easier than you imagine and some of these popular dishes of the Venetian cuisine give you a great taste of the traditional Italian food:

1. Sarde in Saor

The sarde in saor is a classic Italian antipasto that you absolutely have to try. This dish of sweet and sour sardines are cooked in a tangy sauce containing an eclectic mix of ingredients, such as onions, pine nuts, and raisins.

Fried sardines are commonly used, but the dish tastes just as good when the fish is broiled.

2. Squid Ink Risotto or Pasta

Do not let the unattractive appearances of squid ink dishes fool you into thinking that these dishes are unappetising. Savour a mouthful of a squid ink risotto dish, and you will be charmed – the sweetness of the risotto rice, the salty tastes of fresh seafood and the briny flavors of the squid ink all blend well together.

Simply garnished with a sprinkle of spring onion, the dish is completed and served.

3. Bigoli in Salsa

A signature dish of Venice, the bigoli in salsa is made with whole wheat bigoli pasta, onions, and salt-cured fish. Traditionally, sardines was used in the preparation of this dish, but the anchovy is more commonly used today.

4. Fegato alla Veneziana 

Calf liver may be the main ingredient in the Fegato alla Veneziana, but do not be put off by this dish, for it wins over diners who are not fans of the liver. Cooked with stewed onions, the pungent tastes of the liver are masked by the sweet flavours of the onions. Tender and tasty, this is a classic dish not to be missed.

5. Moleche

A seasonal Venetian treat consumed during spring and autumn, moleche are soft shell crabs from the lagoon in Venice. The males and female crabs shed their shells during springtime, while only the males molt during the autumn months.

Timing is crucial when it comes to managing the molting process, for there is a short duration of about five to six hours before the crabs form a new shell that hardens after contact with water. This seafood delicacy yields a soft and tender bite, and is usually eaten fried, in a salad and served with polenta or mashed potatoes.

6. Folpeti

Must-Try Foods in Venice

Folpeti is a dish of baby octopus simmered in a broth with olive oil and lemon juice. It is used as a filling for sandwiches and seasoned with additional lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste.

7. Baccala Mantecato

Also known as polenta with dry cod mousse, baccala mantecato is usually served on a piece of baguette or a slice of grilled polenta. The mousse is prepared by drying and salting the cod, before soaking the fish in water to remove the salt. The cod is then poached and blended into a smooth, mousse-like consistency.

8.Tramezzini

Perfect as a breakfast or snack, tramezzini are triangular sandwiches made with white bread without crusts. Fillings such as tuna, olives and prosciutto are popular options, but a plethora of ingredients can be used to create different variations of this snack.

9. Bellini

Originating from Venice, this well-loved cocktail was created by Giuseppe Cipriani, the founder of Harry’s Bar. The concoction contains a mixture of Prosecco sparkling wine and peach puree. In the original recipe, a dash of cherry or raspberry juice was added to give the drink a pretty pink hue.

A tip for budget travelers: try the Bellini at other bars, for a small glass of this cocktail can easily cost over €20 at Harry’s.

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Don’t just read all about these Venetian delights – have a taste of these treats in the homes of the locals in Venice!

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must try foods in prague

8 Must Try Foods in Prague, Czech Republic

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Prague is well-known for its beautiful architecture and beer, but there is so much more to this well-loved city.

Yes, we’re referring to Czech food – its diverse flavors presented in dishes such as the potato soup, traditional roast pork with dumplings and sauerkraut, fruit dumplings and apple strudel. Sweet, savory, tangy – whichever your pick, you’re sure to find some local food in Prague that will please your tastebuds.

While BonAppetour offers all these different food experiences in Prague, some unique experiences such as Dragan and Melisa’s Balkan Food Experience in Prague has become widely popular in this beautiful city.

If you’re visiting this delightful city for the first time (or the hundredth time), here’s some Prague food you should definitely not miss.

1. Palačinky

When people think about what to eat in Prague, this is almost always on top of the list. These thin Czech pancakes look similar to French crepes but are prepared with a different cooking method and batter. Typically rolled up and served with fillings such as jam, fruit, cream or nuts, it is an ideal treat for those with a sweet tooth.

If savory treats are what you prefer, opt for stuffings of meat, cheese and spinach to go with your pancake. This delightful snack can be found easily in cafes around the city center, as well as at food carts around the city. Vacation makers traversing through Prague during the festive periods will also find the palačinky sold at the Christmas markets.

2. Trdelník

A traditional Slovak rolled pastry originating from the Hungarian-speaking region of Transylvania, the trdelník is usually served warm and topped with a dusting of sugar, nuts or cinnamon. This delectable treat is made by wrapping the pastry dough around a wooden or metal stick, roasting it over an open flame and coated with sugar or cinnamon.

Watching this pastry being prepared is a fascinating sight. A common Prague street food, you can easily find stalls selling this treat along streets and open squares everywhere. It is the perfect treat to savor during a cold winter day!

3. Vepřo-knedlo-zelo

Roast pork, bread dumplings, and stewed cabbage are ingredients that make up this hearty dish. Most Czech dishes tend to be heavy on meat and dumplings, but the vepřo-knedlo-zelo is a nutrient-balanced option offering a healthy amount of fiber.

4. Chlebíčky

A versatile treat, the chlebíčky is an open-faced sandwich that is consumed for breakfast and lunch, for it makes for a quick and filling meal. A staple in Czech cuisine, this sandwich is usually served during parties and social gatherings and feature a variety of toppings such as egg, ham, salami, pickles, and cucumber.

If you are in the mood for sandwiches during your travels, stop by one of the many deli shops in Prague for a taste of this delicacy.

5. Guláš

This dish may have originated in Hungary, but it has been adapted to become a staple food item in Czech cuisine. Unlike the Hungarian goulash, the Czech guláš is prepared with fewer vegetables and contains greater portions of meat.

Beef is typically used, and chicken or pork are sometimes used as alternative ingredients to prepare the dish. The meat is stewed, topped with a generous portion of gravy and served alongside with bread dumplings – a substantial treat that will satisfy meat lovers!

6. Smažený Sýr

Cheese lovers, look here!

A serving of smažený sýr, a dish of deep-fried cheese served with fries, salad or a bread roll, will send you straight into cheese paradise. Sold by street vendors all around Prague, vacation makers with a craving for something savory, cheesy and crispy will easily find this treat.

7. Knedlíky

A traditional side dish in Czech cuisine, the knedlíky are dumplings served along with a meat dish or other oft-eaten mains, such as gulás. This versatile dish serves well as a dessert when prepared with sweet fillings such as fruit or jam.

8. Grilované Klobásy

Need a quick and satisfying meal to eat on the go? Sink your teeth into a serving of grilované klobásy, which consists of grilled sausages tucked into a roll and served with a variety of tasty sauces. You will easily find stalls selling this item in Wenceslas Square and the vicinity of Old Town Square.

Bonus

Nothing beats the experience of feasting on a spread of Czech delicacies in the home of a local. Have a taste of these items when you dine in Prague with Dragan and Melisa, in their Balkan Food Experience in Prague with a love for Czech culture and cuisine.

They will gladly whip up these signature dishes, or customize their menu to suit your dietary preferences. Of course, you’ll down plenty of beer together during your meal.

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How To Eat Like A Local In Budapest

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How To Eat Like A Local In Budapest

In the gastronomic city of Budapest, one will find a diversity of flavours that combines food influences from both the east and west. Most Hungarian dishes, particularly traditional items, are heavily influenced by the nomadic lifestyles and tastes of the Magyar people. Livestock, seasonal vegetables and meats were cooked over the fire, and stews, such as beef goulash and fish soup, as well as pickled vegetables and spices are often featured in the diet of the locals. This wide variety of local food in Hungary may be overwhelming to travellers new to Hungarian cuisine…until you get a handy list of tips on how to eat like the local Magyars in Budapest!

1. Angelo Café Bar

Kalvin Ter, along with other central locations such as Deak, Andrassy Road or Octogon offers a good number of dining options. The eateries here will suit tighter budgets, and you will be able to find all kinds of traditional food items here. One restaurant that comes with my recommendation is Angelo Café Bar. You will not have a problem spotting this place – the menus of the cafe are huge, and it is one of the first few restaurants that you see when you enter 6 Raday Street. 

Prices are affordable, and portions are generous for the food items sold here – a gigantic salami pizza costs just €5. Savour a taste of traditional Hungarian flavours by ordering the beef goulash, fish soup and cabbage wrap, or try out well-loved fare such as sandwiches and steaks. You must order the Elderflower wine spritzer to go along with your meal – the combination of aromatic elderflower and wine makes this a heavenly-tasting beverage not to be missed!

Location: 6 Raday St, alight at metro station Kalvin Ter

2. Nagyi Palacsintazoja (Granny’s Pancake House)

Hungarian-style pancakes are a must-try when you are in Budapest. A hiddem gem called Granny's Pancake House is tucked away at Batthyany Square. This eatery may not have an attractive location or fancy decorations, but it continues to draw flocks of diners keen on having a taste of its delightful pancakes. Browse through the menu, and you will find about a hundred different varieties of sweet and savoury pancakes, with fillings such as choclate, spinach and chicken stew. The eatery is open 24/7, so you can get a fix of pancake treat any time when the cravings hit. 

Locations: 

Pest City Center – Petőfi Sándor utca 17-19, District 5

Buda – Királyhágó tér 2, District 12

Óbuda Aquincum – Szentendrei út 131, District 3

3. Local Markets

Avoid the over-priced souvenirs and food produce sold at the touristy Central Market Hall. Instead, explore local haunts, such as the market located next to Allee Shopping Centre at Ujbuda-Kozpont. You will find an abundance of vegetables and fruits, such as cherries, strawberries and paprikas, sold at affordable prices. 

Location:  October twenty-street 8-10

4. Spar / InterSpar

Supermarkets offer heaps of options to go truly local. In Budapest, you will easily find a chain of supermarkets known as Spar. Once here, do not leave without getting a box of Pöttyös, a well-loved snack of chocolate coated with sweet cheese. The coating does not taste like traditional cheeses, for it is sweet and sour. This is the most amazing snack that I have ever tasted! 

All the Spar outlets offer a good selection of salamis with varying levels of spiciness and flavours. The salami with paprika is a must-try, and can be eaten as a snack, or used as an ingredient in dishes. Give the liver spread a try too – you will find tins of goose, chicken or cow liver spreads on the shelves. Spread over bread, and eaten with pickled cabbage and cold cuts, this makes for a simple breakfast often consumed by the locals. 

Locations: All over the city

5. Anna Café

Venture to Vaci Ucta, one of the most popular tourist streets in Budapest, and you will find Anna Café. The cafe offers a variety of traditional Hungarian cakes and desserts, as well as salads, sandwiches, wine and specialty coffee. 

Try the gundel palacsinta, a decadent treat made up of three gundel pancakes rolled up together, and coated with chocolate, peanuts and a scoop of vanilla ice cream. If you are not in the mood for an indulgent dessert, the cafe's strategic location makes it an excellent spot to spend a leisurely afternoon sipping coffee, people watching, and enjoying the views of the city. 

Location: Vaci Ucta 5, 1051 Budapest Hungary

6. McDonald’s

Yum! Creamy, filled with small wafer balls and containing a splash of rich chocolate, the Cornetto McFlurry is a treat that ice cream lovers will adore!

The baroque-style McDonald’s outlet at Nyugati Railway Terminal in Budapest is regarded as the most beautiful McDonald’s outlet in the world. Opened in 1988, it is the first Mcdonald’s outlet in Hungary, and also one of the first outlets opened in Eastern Europe. 

Location: Right outside Nyugati Railway Station

7. Street Food Stalls and Food Festivals

Lucky holidaymakers traversing the streets of Budapest during the summer will have plenty of opportunities to explore a slew of food festivals. Make time to visit Oktoberfest, set up beside Deak Metro station in the heart of Budapest. You will find stores selling different varieties of beer, sausages, stews, pickles and crunchy, deep-fried fare.

Be sure to try out kolacs when you see it sold at the street food stalls. This traditional pastry is made by rolling pastry dough around a cylinder, before cooking it slowly over fire. When it starts to brown and turn crispy, a generous dash of sugar and cinnamon are spread over the pastry before it is served.  

Nutritious and flavourful, the paprika is a favourite snack among the locals. 

8. Home-dining with the Locals

Want to tuck into a spread of Hungarian dishes in the cosy homes of the locals? A meal with Peter promises to be a culinary adventure. You will start dinner with a traditional soup served with Palinka, a local spirit made from fruits, and round off the meal with flodni, a layered Jewish cake packed with walnuts, apples and poppy seeds.

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