Asia, Barbados, Barcelona, Caribbean, Europe, Food & Drinks, Popular, South Korea, Travel

But What About the Food?

28 February

Okay, by now it’s pretty clear that I’m not your typical travel blogger. I also wasn’t blessed with a fine or discerning palate (unlike my son), and even before I went vegetarian, I was never the most adventurous eater. But make no mistake, I absolutely love all kinds of food. And since starting this adventure, finding delicious, unique, and exciting bites has been anything but difficult.

I’ve written about food before, sharing restaurant recommendations and unique dining experiences in various blog posts, but I figured it was time to create a one-stop shop of my favorite eats in each country I’ve visited. You know, just in case the random visitor to my blog doesn’t feel like sifting through all the chaos to track down a good meal.

So, without further ado, here are some of my favorite restaurants, late-night eats, and all-important dessert wonderlands. And if you find something you like, hover over the name for the website or Google Maps link to the location… because no one has time to get lost when there’s good food waiting.

Mango Boba Deliciousness at Divine Thai in Wrexham, Wales

Caprese, Neapolitan-style pizza, garlic bread, tiramisu… what more could a girl want?

England:

Efes Turkish Restaurant (London): In the interest of full transparency, I didn’t complete my transition to a fully-vegetarian diet until I got to Barcelona. That being the case, I took a trip down memory lane (I lived in Turkey as a military brat from the ages of 2-4ish), and divulged in some Turkish Pizza (thin, crispy flatbread topped with spiced minced meat and herbs) at Efes, which offers seriously good Turkish food in an affordable and laid-back setting.

Double Zero Pizza (Manchester): This place was next-level good. Easily one of the best pizzas I’ve ever had. The Neapolitan-style masterpiece was thin, with perfectly blistered crust, made of high-quality ingredients, and flavors that just hit right. The vibe is cozy but lively, making it the perfect spot for a casual night out solo or with others. Pair your pie with the Caprese salad, and if you’ve got room for dessert, do not skip the tiramisu, it was just as memorable as the pizza.

Wrexham (Wales):

La Baguette & Co: This place is a tiny, affordable goldmine. It’s the kind of spot that makes you forget you’re not even a sandwich person (which, I definitely am not). But somehow, these sandwiches, stacked with fresh ingredients on ridiculously good bread (egg salad for my vegetarian preferences) had me questioning if I’ve been missing out all along. When I went, it felt like the entire temporary population of tourists had gathered there pre-football match, adding to the already buzzing atmosphere. It’s small, it’s humble, and it’s the kind of place that knows exactly how to make you take another sammie for the footy.

Divine Thai & Bubble Tea: Listen, I take my bubble tea very seriously, and if there’s a spot anywhere near me, I’ll find it. So natually, I dragged my mom all over Wrexham on a mission for boba (as one does), and somehow, we stumbled upon this gem right before the match. Total luck, but wow… what a find. And the bubble tea was everything I hoped for… mango fixins secured.

Want to try a little bit of all the local Wrexham fare? Check out the Wrexham Food and Drink Tour.

Falafel plate with extra salad from Honest Greens

My fave vegetarian bites from Lady Dumpling

Barcelona:

No matter where you go in Barcelona you’re going to have a plethora of food choices. From every world cuisine to vegetarian and vegan options to desserts you didn’t even know existed, there truly isn’t a lack of anything in Barcelona. My faves include:

Honest Greens: A haven for healthy, organic, and ethically sourced meals, Honest Greens offers a vibrant atmosphere complemented by hip-hop beats and a strong sense of community. With multiple locations across Barcelona, my favorite is in El Born. The menu boasts a wide variety of dishes made with fresh ingredients, catering to diverse dietary preferences. It’s a popular spot, so be prepared for a lively, bustling environment and a potentially long wait for a table during peak hours.

Lady Dumpling: This cozy eatery specializes in fresh, handmade dumplings (like you can literally watch them make and stuff the little envelopes of pleasure in the front window as you enter), offering a delightful range of flavors and ingredients to satisfy any craving or dietary need. With multiple locations, it’s a convenient stop for a quick bite. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, making it a great place to refuel before resuming your exploration of the city. The staff is friendly, the prices are reasonable, and they sell their sauces in bulk form, should you (like me) want to take a taste of the awesomesauce home with you.

Rangoli: As an self-proclaimed aficionado of Indian cuisine, discovering Rangoli in Barcelona was a delightful surprise. Located at the outer edge of Barceloneta Beach, this restaurant offers an extensive menu of authentic Indian dishes, each bursting with rich flavors and spices. The ambiance is elegant, and the service is attentive, making it a perfect spot for both casual dinners and special occasions.

Vegan Junk Food Bar: This vibrant spot combines a lively atmosphere with an innovative plant-based menu. Known for its colorful and indulgent dishes, including pink burger buns and faux-cheese loaded spicy fries, it’s a haven for vegans and non-vegans alike. The creative cocktails and energetic vibe make it a must-visit destination for those seeking a fun, unique and instagram-worthy dining experience.

A little Paneer Korma, basmati rice and EXTRA Garlic Naan for the win…

Of course sweet corn and hot honey come standard on cheese pizza in South Korea! Why would they not?

Pyeontaek (South Korea):

I wasn’t as adventurous in Pyeongtaek as I had been in Spain and the UK. Having lived there before and being more focused on getting finances in order and figuring out the next steps of rebuilding my business, if I wasn’t eating what Starbies had to offer during my work days there, I was usually cooking dinner at home. However, there were two places that I frequented more than any others:

Pizza School: Cheap, cheesy, and oddly addictive, especially when topped with garlic sauce and hot honey. Pizza School was my go-to spot for budget-friendly, no-frills pizza that somehow just hits the spot. Perfect for a $9 large pizza without overthinking the sweet corn topping.

Tandoori Indian Restaurant: When you need a break from Korean BBQ and fried chicken, this spot comes through with bold, flavorful Indian comfort food. Rich curries, fluffy naan, and perfectly spiced dishes (for those who eat meat and those who don’t) hit the spot, whether you’re refueling after a night out in the SED (IYKYK) or just craving something really good.

Traditional Korean Barbecue in the Songtan Entertainment District (IYKYK)

Maui-Maui, Lobster, and Kale Caesar salad is all it took to turn me into a casual seafood eater…

Barbados:

This was by far the toughest destination for food. EXPENSIVE is an understatement, that goes for grocery stores, gas stations, restaurants, and even the farmer’s markets in some cases. What Bajan food lacks in affordability however, it makes up for in SPADES in flavor and freshness. A few of my favorites:

Oistins Fish Fry: An absolute must for anyone visiting the island, the Oistins Fish Fry offers a quintessentially traditional Bajan experience. This weekly block party is just that, complete with DJs, buskers, live music, and of course the freshest of dinner offerings. Guided by my Airbnb host, my bestie and I ate from the “Chillin and Grillin” stall, sharing a massive plate of fresh Swordfish, fries, salad, pasta salad, coleslaw, macaroni pie and rice and peas, plus two drinks (and tip) for just $25.

Influence Bar & Grill: Tripling as a hookah lounge and tattoo parlor (yes, I did partake in the latter), Influence is a low-key, roadside spot that has great bar food and drinks, perfect to satiate any late-night cravings.

Blush Cafe: As Instagram-worthy as any brunch hotspot in Houston, Miami, or Atlanta, Blush offers multiple selfie opportunities, classic international brunch staples (think Bottomless Mimosas, Chicken & Waffles, English Breakfast, and apparently the reason none of us millennials can afford a home, Avocado Toast) with a Bajan twist, and an intimate, relaxed atmosphere.

Surfers Cafe: The food was great and it was more than reasonable when it came to portions and price. If you find yourself somewhere between Maxwell Beach and Oistins, I highly recommend.

Local & Co: Ahhh… the restaurant that showed me I actually WAS missing out by not eating seafood! Not only was this gorgeous restaurant a total vibe on the inside and the beachside patio, the food was phenomenal and the AC was a welcome reprieve from the intense Speightstown heat. While the prices are a little on the high side, even by Barbados standards, my mom and I shared the Mahi-Mahi with lobster and a kale caesar salad and still had a few bites left over by the time we were both full.

Random Bar & Restaurant: I wish I could remember the name (and apparently, so does Google Maps), but this hidden gem in Christ Church is worth the hunt. Nestled at the corner of Fair Holmes Gardens and Maxwell Road in Christ Church, this cozy little bar serves up big flavors without breaking the bank. For just $20 USD, I got a large plate of perfectly cooked Mahi Mahi with peppers and onions, rice and peas, coleslaw, and fried plantains. It was an absolute steal. Even my mom, the ultimate “we got food at home” enforcer, was impressed. If you’re in the area, just look for the blue light over the porch seating and the little Jack Russell with an unlimited supply of zoomies.

Oisitns Fish Market is by far the best value for food on the island…

…and until I start adventuring in Bangkok, I’ll continue to make protein pancakes at the crib… because, YUM.

Bangkok:

I’ve been here for almost two weeks now, but since I’ll be living in Bangkok for the foreseeable future, I haven’t felt the need to rush through all the sights, eats, and experiences the city has to offer. But that changes this weekend! Tomorrow, I’m heading over to the Sukhumvit neighborhood to explore and check out a few restaurants, including a vegan ramen spot that was recommended by another recent transplant.

I’ll keep updating this blog as I discover more mind-blowing food, so check back soon for more sweet treats!