Pete’s Kitchen: Iconic Family-Owned Diner in Denver, Colorado

The Greek Philly with fries, Pete's Kitchen, Denver, Colorado

Pete’s Kitchen is an iconic, long-standing diner located on Denver’s East Colfax, known for its hearty, classic American and Greek dishes. The diner, which opened in 1988, is part of many restaurants and businesses opened by Pete Contos and his family. Born in 1941, Greek immigrant Pete Contos emigrated from Greece in 1956. He worked …

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Manhattn’s Burgers: Grass fed-burgers in Brussels, Belgium

The Flatiron Spicy Burger with a side of Godfather Fries and Secret Sauce, Manhattn's Burgers, Brussels, Belgium

Manhattn’s Burgers is a chain of flame-grilled burger restaurants from Belgium that are bringing a taste of New York City to Brussels. They pride themselves on using only the freshest ingredients, including grass-fed beef, hand-cut potatoes, and baked daily brioche buns. In October 2014, two brothers opened the first Manhattn’s Burgers location in Brussels on …

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Maguro Koya: Affordable Bluefin Tuna in Nara, Japan

Ootoro Tekkadon with bluefin tuna and miso soup, Maguro Koya, Nara, Japan

Maguro Koya is a small mom-and-pop shop serving affordable tuna dishes, tucked away down a side street near Kintetsu-Nara Station. Maguro, the Japanese word for tuna, is the specialty of the house and a delicacy in Japan. Over the years, this hidden gem has attracted both locals and tourists, who come for its delicious tuna …

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Kingdom Dim Sum: Hidden Gem in Los Angeles’ Thai Town

Baked BBQ Pork Bun with Puff Pastry, Kingdom Dim Sum, Los Angeles, California

Kingdom Dim Sum is a casual restaurant popular for its affordable dim sum in Thai Town, located in the Hollywood area of Los Angeles, CA. The restaurant sits in a small strip mall along Hollywood Boulevard, a short walk from the Walk of Fame. Inspired by his father, who owned a dim sum restaurant, the …

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Prontos’ Gourmet Market & Eatery: Sandwiches in Carlsbad, California

Super Italian Sub with a side of Pasta Salad, Prontos’ Gourmet Market & Eatery, Carlsbad, California

Prontos’ Gourmet Market & Eatery is a family-owned and operated restaurant in the heart of Carlsbad Village, California. Since 1995, they have been serving their community by offering a variety of gourmet hot and cold sandwiches, wraps, salads, pasta, and more, all prepared fresh. In their market, I found a selection of meats, cheeses, breads, …

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Restaurante El Cardenal: Lunch in Historic Center of Mexico City

Restaurante El Cardenal, located in the historic center of Mexico City, is renowned for its traditional Mexican cuisine and authentic recipes. Founded in 1969 by Olivia Garizurieta and Jesús Briz, the restaurant began as a means to support their family. Over time, they shifted their focus to creating high-quality Mexican dishes using fresh, local ingredients. …

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Chao Chao Sanjo Kiyamachi: Gyoza in Kyoto, Japan

Chao Chao Pork Gyoza

Chao Chao Sanjo Kiyamachi is a gyoza restaurant in Kyoto, Japan. Tourists and locals love it for its dumplings and lively atmosphere. The restaurant is in a district known for its dining options and nightlife, close to the Kamo River and the narrow alleys of Pontocho. While there are better restaurants in Kyoto, I enjoy …

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Sawyers Arms: Fish and Chips and a Pint in London

Fish & Chips, Sawyers Arms, London, England

While wandering around, I stumbled upon Sawyers Arms, a historic traditional British pub dating back to 1858, near Paddington Station. It was my first night in London. I was hungry, tired, jet lagged, and in the mood for a cold beer and warm meal. While there are countless pubs in London, I wanted to find …

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