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5 of the Best Bars/Pubs in Budapest

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When you are in Budapest, make sure to check out these best places to have a drink.

1. Szimpla Kert

Decorated with remnants of the Communist era, this bar is one of the most popular one among the infamous ‘ruin pubs’ in Budapest. From an old radio to half a bathtub, this place has an alternative vibe for your nightlife in Budapest.

2. Blue Red Hell

You can be anyone in this pub as it is known for it’s variety of costume events like Halloween. One night it might be a Japanese disco and then a cyber punk movie another.

3. Morrison’s Opera

You’ll want to know about this place- as it is where you can get beer for 100HUF! There is a dance floor to dance your night away, a place to sing and play football or FIFA. Not to mention Morrison’s Opera has a fantastic DJ too.

4. Fogas Haz

It’s name literally means House of Teeth and is very popular among the locals. They have a dance floor and prices are cheap. The outdoor courtyard is the perfect place to get a drink and relax.

5. Mazel Tov

Bringing a modern twist to the ruin pubs scene, Mazel Tov has stylish interiors with clean lines and ample space.Featuring a complete Middle Eastern kitchen equipped with a hummus bar, even kids are welcome in this stylish joint.

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5 of the Best Dessert Restaurants in Amsterdam

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5 of the Best Dessert Restaurants in Amsterdam

Planning to visit Amsterdam with a sweet tooth can be a dessert lover's paradise when you allow yourself to indulge. From delicious deep-filled appeltaart (apple pie) to classic staples such as carrot cake, chocolate fudge cake, and cheesecake. Plus plenty of bakeries and patisseries in Amsterdam are pushing the boundaries when it comes to sweet treats. You won’t want to miss any one of these dessert restaurants in Amsterdam.

 

1. Patisserie Holtkamp

Baking since 1969, the people behind Holtkamp really know their stuff when it comes to delicate desserts as they have one of the best apple pies you can find in Amsterdam. Though they are famously known for their delicious savory croquettes and bitterballen, Holtkamp also specializes in freshly-made chocolates, cakes, cookies, tarts and French-style pastries. A little bit of something for everyone.

Vijzelgracht 15
patisserieholtkamp.nl
Open: Mon – Fri 8.30 am – 6 pm; Sat 8.30 am – 5 pm

 

2. Chocolatl

More than your traditional chocolate shop, Chocolatl is a shrine to the cocoa bean. Their gourmet chocolate is a piece of art that the employees are more than happy to help you discover which of their artisanal bars and bonbons are the perfect flavor for your palate, and they also sell delicious drinking chocolate. Something new to try while visiting Amsterdam.

Hazenstraat 25-A
chocolatl.nl
Open: Tue – Sat 11 am – 6 pm; Sun 1 pm – 5 pm12

 

3. Van Ness Cupcake

Taking gourmet cupcakes to a new level, Van Ness Cupcake changes their menu each month to offer a selection of unique cupcakes you won’t be able to find elsewhere. Though these cupcakes may be modern their offering of soft and buttery cupcakes with flavors including Peanut Butter Lava, Maple Cinnamon and Lemon Coconut. You’ll always find something to tickle your taste buds to come back for more the next month.

Spuistraat 232
vannesscupcake.com
Open: Wed and Fri – Sun 12 noon – 6 pm; Thu 12 noon – 8 pm

 

4. Patisserie Tout

It is said that the chef behind Patisserie Tout was apparently the first pâtissier to bring French Macarons to the Netherlands. With his specialization in decadent ganache-filled macarons in a variety of flavors, Tout is praised for their sweet cookie-like treats in Amsterdam. Though they also offer intricate pastries, chocolates and truffles that are all made with fresh seasonal ingredients. And in case you would like to learn how to make your own chocolates or macarons, Tout offers a do-it-yourself workshop.

Maasstraat 105
toutpatisserie.nl
Open: Mon 12 noon – 5 pm; Tue – Fri 8.30 am – 6 pm; Sat 9 am – 5.30 pm

 

5. De Drie Graefjes (American Bakery)

One of the busiest American style bakeries in Amsterdam that offers huge portions of muffins, hunks of red velvet cake, brownies, blondies, cupcakes and cookies. De Drie Graefjes is well known for their pastries and can get crowded during the lunch time as they also serve American style soups, sandwiches, and salads in case you want to feel better about indulging in your sweet treat.

Two locations: Rokin 128 and Eggertstraat 1
dedriegraefjes.nl
Open: daily 9 am – 6 pm

 

About the Author:
Freddy Rodriguez is a Texas transplant currently living between New York City and Berlin sharing his travels on Instagram @FredRdgz and writing for Eating Europe Tours. 

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A Veggie Affair: Meatless Meals in Prague

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A Veggie Affair: Meatless Meals in Prague

Meat is a staple in Czech cuisine, and meat dishes feature heavily on the menus of many eateries in Prague. However, the dietary preferences of non-meat eaters are not forgotten in this city; an increasing number of vegetarian and vegetarian-friendly eateries have sprung up across the city. If you're seeking a spot to get your fix of wholesome greens, here're six spots that come with our recommendations: 

1. Country Life Melantrichova

Country Life Melantrichova dishes out vegetarian fare, buffet-style. You will find a good variety of dishes, ranging from raw salads, to hot items such as soups and cooked Czech delicacies. The price of meals at this eatery is determined by the weight of the food items selected, ensuring that diners pay a reasonable amount for their meals. Located near to the Old Town Square, Country Life Melantrichova is a convenient option for vegetarian travellers exploring the vicinity. 

[PRAGUE https://www.bonappetour.com/s/Prague–Czech-Republic?lat=50.0755381&lng=14.43780049999998]

2. Loving Hut 

Loving Hut is an international chain of vegan restaurants that has made its way into Prague. There are several outlets to be found around the city, with each branch offering a buffet of Asian vegan fare. Apart from savoury dishes, you will also find vegan desserts at this eatery. Generous portions and reasonable prices makes Loving Hut a hit with both vegetarians and vegans alike. The saying, 'the early bird catches the worm' holds true here, so head down here early to sample the best selection of vegan fare! 

3. Estrella

Estrella churns out freshly prepared Czech and international delicacies. While the menu is not entirely vegan, there are a selection of vegan-friendly items available. Beer-loving vegetarians are not deprived of their pint of beer here; a list of locally-brewed beer can be found on the menu. Take note  that this restaurant does not accept card payment, so make sure you have enough cash on hand before you arrive for your meal. 

4. Mlsna Kavka

Mlsna Kavka is a casual vegetarian eatery catering to a wide range of dietary needs.

Its meat-free menu includes vegan and gluten-free fare, so even diners with dietary restrictions will not have to leave this eatery with an empty stomach. Mlsna Kavka is also a social enterprise supporting individuals diagnosed with psychiatric illnesses; the eatery employs these individuals, so as to help them acquire skills necessary for employment in the labour market. Diners kill two birds with a stone when they tuck into a meal here – by enjoying delicious meatless fare and supporting a worthwhile cause. 

5. Green Spirit Bistro and Cafe

Since its commencement in October 2014, the Green Spirit Bistro and Cafe has become a fond favourite among the vegetarian crowd in Prague. The cafe serves a wide variety of dishes, ranging from mains such as pasta and burgers, to sweet treats like ice cream, cakes and daily dessert specials. Vegan-friendly items are labelled on the menu.   

6. Home-dining Experience 

Not keen on dining out? Try dining in, and opt for a cosy home-dining experience with the locals in the city. Our hosts will gladly cater to a variety of dietary needs and preferences, and will happily whip up a storm of meatless fare for vegetarian guests. Be sure to indicate your dietary preferences during the booking process. 

 

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Desserts in Portugal: 6 Decadent Treats Not to be Missed

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Desserts in Portugal: 6 Decadent Treats Not to be Missed

There is no doubt that sweet treats are central to Portuguese cuisine – the abundance of pastry shops around the country is a clear testament to this. If you’re a traveller with a sweet tooth, we bring good news – here’s a list of Portuguese desserts to savour during your stay in Portugal:

1. Serradura

Serradura translates to mean ‘sawdust’ in English, and this dessert is also known as sawdust pudding. Unappetising as the name sounds, rest assured that this pudding is a lovely treat to be savoured. Crushed biscuits make up the layer of ‘sawdust’ sprinkled on the topmost layer of cream, spooned atop alternating layers of cream and tea biscuits. If you love desserts boasting contrasting textures, this creamy and crunchy treat is sure to hit a sweet spot.

2. Pudim Caseiro

This classic dessert is a household favourite made with ingredients such as eggs, milk, port wine, caramel, sugar and water. It is one of the many pudding desserts found in Portugal, and it is said that each household in the country prepares this dessert in different ways.

3. Toucinho do Ceu

Toucinho do Ceu translates to mean ‘bacon in heaven’ – but rest assured that this dessert does not contain any traces of the savoury cured meat. Infact, toucinho do ceu is a dessert of almond cake. Its unique name can be attributed to the fact that pork lard was traditionally used in the preparation of this dessert. Today, pork lard is not always used in the preparation of this cake, although bakers in certain regions of the country continue to follow this tradition.

4. Cavacas

Cavacas, also known as popover dessert, refers to a cupcake-style pastry topped with a sweet and creamy glaze. These decadent delights are a festive treat often served during holidays and celebrations. You will easily find it at Portuguese bakeries too, so you will not have to wait for a special occasion to enjoy this dessert.

5. Coscoroes

A festive treat commonly consumed during Christmas, coscoroes are fried pieces of dough with a crunchy texture and sweet flavour. The addition of orange and orange zest lend a citrusy note to the dessert, and a sprinkling of cinnamon brings a spicy kick to this treat.

6. Pastel De Nata

Pastel de nata, also known as Portuguese egg tarts, is a well-known Portuguese delicacy. This Portuguese classic was created by Catholic monks in a monastery in Lisbon prior to the 1800s. Fabrica de Pasteis de Belem, a pastry shop that has been operating since 1837, owns the original recipe of pastel de nata. Be sure to drop by this pastry store for a taste of the original Portuguese classic!

 

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