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Category: Restaurant Reviews

  • An Omakase in Kanazawa: A Review of Sushi Rekireki Omicho

    An Omakase in Kanazawa: A Review of Sushi Rekireki Omicho

    In our guide to Kanazawa, we called this the best sushi experience of our trip, and it’s a statement we stand by. This is a closer look at our unforgettable meal at Sushi Rekireki Omicho, a small restaurant that, for us, represents the art of sushi at its finest.

    Located near the city’s famous Omicho Market, this is a destination for a true omakase experience. With its Michelin Plate recognition and a deep connection to local tradition—being operated by the historic Yamato Soysauce and Miso Company—it promises a meal rooted in Kanazawa’s rich culinary heritage

    The Setting & Atmosphere

    The restaurant is minimalist and intimate, with seating for only a handful of guests along a beautiful hinoki wood counter. We loved the calm and focused atmosphere, which allows you to fully appreciate the chef’s craft. However, it’s worth noting that the interior is very simple and the seating is traditional. While authentic, some may find it less comfortable for a long meal. At this price point, the ambiance could be a bit more refined. For us, the focus was rightly on the counter and the chef’s incredible work.

    The Omakase Experience

    The omakase was a guided journey through the best seasonal seafood from the Hokuriku region. It began by watching the itamae (sushi chef) meticulously prepare the stunning array of fresh, local fish, sourced just steps away at Omicho Market.

    The multi-course meal was a sequence of highlights, and while every piece was remarkable, here are a few that we still talk about. What truly impressed us was the perfect balance in each piece of nigiri. The quality of the fish was exceptional and perfectly complemented by the seasoned shari (sushi rice). A clear standout was the local specialty, the nodoguro(blackthroat seaperch), which the chef lightly seared (aburi) to an incredible, buttery texture. Another highlight was the rich, creamy uni (sea urchin) from Hokkaido.

    Practical Tips for Visiting

    • Reservations are Essential: You must book well in advance. We recommend booking through your hotel’s concierge or a Japanese booking service like TableCheck, as walk-ins are generally not possible.
    • Trust the Chef: The nature of omakase is to enjoy the chef’s curated journey. Eat each piece as it is presented—it is already perfectly seasoned for you.
    • Combine with Omicho Market: The restaurant is located right by the market. Plan to explore the market’s vibrant stalls before or after your meal.

    The Verdict

    So, was it truly the highlight of our trip? For us, the answer is a resounding yes. The combination of the high-quality local fish, the chef’s clear expertise, and the quiet, focused setting made for a truly special dining experience. While the simple interior might not fully match the high price point for some, the quality of the food itself was absolutely flawless.

    For anyone who appreciates the craft of high-end sushi, a meal here is an experience we can’t recommend highly enough and a highlight of our Kanazawa Guide.

    Overall ★★★★½☆ (4.5/5)

  • A Guide to Kyoto’s Best Breakfasts & Coffee Shops

    A Guide to Kyoto’s Best Breakfasts & Coffee Shops

    Mornings in Kyoto have a special kind of magic. Whether you’re watching the early light hit a temple roof or wandering through quiet, misty alleys, starting your day on the right note is essential. While Japan isn’t traditionally known for a big “breakfast out” culture, Kyoto’s international appeal and incredible craftsmanship have created a fantastic scene for morning meals and world-class coffee.

    This is our curated guide to the best spots to start your day in Kyoto, from full traditional meals to the perfect cup of coffee.

    Before diving into our favorite spots, it’s helpful to understand that the concept of “going out for breakfast” isn’t as ingrained in Japanese culture as it is in the West. Traditionally, breakfast (chōshoku) is a meal enjoyed at home and is a savory affair. The classic components are steamed rice, miso soup, grilled fish (yakizakana), and various small side dishes like pickled vegetables (tsukemono) or a rolled omelet (tamagoyaki).

    However, as a historic capital and a global travel destination, Kyoto offers the best of both worlds. You can find specialty restaurants that serve an incredible traditional Japanese breakfast, giving you a true taste of the culture. At the same time, the city has a world-class modern cafe and bakery scene, driven by a love for craftsmanship and quality. This guide covers our favorites from every category, from a full meal to what we consider the soul of any morning ritual: a perfect cup of coffee.

    For a Full Breakfast Experience

    These are the places to go when you want a substantial, sit-down meal to fuel a day of exploring.

    Lorimer (For the Traditionalist)

    Style: Traditional Japanese Breakfast | Vibe: Calm & Minimalist

    For a truly authentic Kyoto experience, look no further than Lorimer. This beautiful, minimalist spot specializes in one thing: the classic Japanese breakfast (ichiju sansai). You can expect a perfectly grilled piece of fish, a bowl of rice and miso soup, and several small, delicate side dishes like pickles and vegetables. We chose the smaller version, and it was the perfect, nourishing way to start the day.

    Kissa Kishin (For a Western Craving)

    Style: Western-Style Breakfast | Vibe: Cozy & Popular

    If you’re craving a taste of home, Kissa Kishin is the spot. It’s a favorite among international travelers for good reason, serving up beautifully executed Western-style dishes. The French toast and brioche are phenomenal, and the coffee is excellent. It’s located a little outside the main city center, so a bus or taxi is your best bet, but it’s well worth the trip.

    Totaro (For a Sweet Start)

    Style: Japanese Sweets (Wagashi) | Vibe: Quaint & Quick

    For a different kind of breakfast, head to Totaro. This charming little spot is known for its Japanese-style sweet breakfast and matcha. Think delicate rice dumplings (dango) and other traditional sweets (wagashi). It opens at 10 AM, and there’s usually a small queue. Note that there’s no seating, only standing tables, but it’s a unique and delightful experience worth the short wait.

    For the Perfect Cup of Coffee

    Kyoto’s third-wave coffee scene is world-class. If you’re a coffee aficionado, these are the places you can’t miss.

    % Arabica Kyoto (The Icon)

    Vibe: Minimalist & Iconic | Must-Try: Caffe Latte

    With its iconic “%” logo, Arabica is perhaps Kyoto’s most famous coffee shop. They have several stunning, minimalist locations, most notably in Arashiyama by the river and in Higashiyama near the Yasaka Pagoda. The coffee is consistently excellent, smooth, and perfectly balanced. Be prepared for a queue—it’s a global phenomenon for a reason.

    Weekenders Coffee (The Hidden Gem)

    Vibe: Secluded & Purist | Must-Try: Filter Coffee

    This is a true insider’s spot for serious coffee lovers. Famously tucked away in a tiny, unassuming space at the back of a parking lot, Weekenders Coffee is a roastery that serves up some of the best filter coffee in the city from a small window. It’s a no-frills experience that is all about the quality of the bean.

    Blue Bottle Coffee (The Californian-Kyoto Blend)

    Vibe: Serene & Architectural | Must-Try: Drip Coffee

    The famous Californian coffee brand found the perfect home in Kyoto. Their location near the Nanzen-ji temple is set in a beautifully renovated two-story machiya (traditional wooden townhouse) with a serene courtyard. It’s a stunning fusion of modern, clean coffee culture and timeless Japanese aesthetics.

    Here Kyoto (For Coffee & a Treat)

    Vibe: Modern & Friendly | Must-Try: Cannelé Latte

    A fantastic coffee shop that has earned a loyal following for its quality brews and, more specifically, its signature cannelés. They often serve their lattes with a delicious, freshly baked cannelé on top. It’s a perfect pairing and a delightful treat after exploring the nearby Nishiki Market.

    No matter how you choose to start your day, these spots are sure to provide a memorable experience. All of these recommendations and more are included in our complete 5 Days in Kyoto Itinerary.

  • Best Pizza in Frankfurt

    Best Pizza in Frankfurt

    Frankfurt’s pizza scene has grown incredibly over the last few years, and we’ve done the delicious work of finding the truly great spots. This is our personal, curated list of the best pizzerias in the city, from authentic Neapolitan mainstays to fantastic local gems.

    Pizza Montana

    Style: Authentic Neapolitan | Vibe: Lively & Casual | Best For: A quick, perfect pizza

    Montana remains one of our top recommendations and a true local favorite for authentic Neapolitan pizza. While they have a bustling location in Nordend, their spot in the vibrant Bahnhofsviertel is incredibly convenient. The atmosphere is lively, with both indoor and outdoor seating. Their pizzas are consistently excellent, featuring a soft, chewy crust and high-quality toppings. Don’t miss their homemade chili oil for an extra kick.

    Pro-Tip: Always check their ever-changing list of special pizzas—they’re usually creative and delicious. And for those with a sweet tooth, they even offer a sweet dessert pizza. The seating is modern and efficient, making it the perfect spot for a high-quality meal before heading out, rather than a long, lingering dinner.

    Rimini

    Style: Classic Italian | Vibe: Energetic & Fun | Best For: Huge pizzas and a lively atmosphere

    A legend from the neighboring city of Offenbach, Rimini has finally opened a location in the heart of Frankfurt, close to the iconic Dom (Cathedral). This place is always buzzing with energy. They are famous for their gigantic, classic Italian-style pizzas with a slightly thinner crust, which are perfect for sharing. In the summer, keep an eye out for their pop-up location, which brings their fantastic pizza to a relaxed, sunny spot by the river.

    Calma Chaos

    Style: Modern Italian | Vibe: Stylish & Relaxed | Best For: A sit-down pizza and pasta dinner

    If you’re in the Bahnhofsviertel but looking for a slightly more relaxed atmosphere than the typical quick-bite spots, Calma Chaos is an excellent choice. It’s a bit more of a stylish restaurant where you can comfortably sit down and enjoy a nice glass of wine with your meal. While their pizza is great, they also offer a selection of very good pasta dishes, making it the perfect compromise if you’re dining with someone who isn’t in the mood for pizza.

    Super Bro’s

    Style: Neapolitan | Vibe: Modern & Popular | Best For: Pizza Purists

    In any serious discussion about the best Neapolitan pizza in Frankfurt, Super Bro’s is always in the conversation. What sets them apart is their official AVPN certification (Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana), which means they adhere to the strict, traditional methods of pizza-making as dictated by Naples itself. For pizza purists, this is a very big deal. The result is a pizza that is consistently flawless, with a beautifully soft, airy crust and high-quality, simple toppings. The vibe in their Gallus location is modern and often busy, with the focus squarely on the incredible pizza.

    7Bello

    Style: Old-School Trattoria | Vibe: No-Frills & Authentic | Best For: The best value for money

    This is our secret tip if you are looking for amazing pizza that won’t break the bank. Tucked away in a quieter part of the city, 7Bello is a classic, family-run Italian spot that has been around for years. Don’t expect trendy decor or a fancy menu. What you get is honest, delicious, and generously sized pizza at a price that is hard to beat in Frankfurt. It’s a true local gem.

  • The Frankfurt Food Guide: Our Favorite Restaurants for Every Occasion

    The Frankfurt Food Guide: Our Favorite Restaurants for Every Occasion

    Welcome to our personal Frankfurt food guide! Frankfurt is often seen as a city of banking and skylines, but beyond the corporate hustle lies a surprisingly diverse and delicious food scene. As Frankfurt is our home base, we’ve spent years exploring its culinary landscape, from chic fine dining establishments to bustling, authentic eateries.

    This isn’t a list of every restaurant in the city. This is our personal, curated guide to the places we love and return to time and again. It’s a list for every mood and occasion, filled with our honest opinions and insider tips.

    For a Special Night Out

    These are our go-to spots for date nights, anniversaries, or when we just want an elegant and memorable meal.

    Lohninger

    Cuisine: Modern Austrian | Vibe: Intimate & Elegant | Location: Sachsenhausen | Price: €€€€

    Lohninger remains our favorite restaurant in the city at the moment. It perfectly balances a cozy, intimate atmosphere with impeccable, fine-dining quality food. The menu is a brilliant mix of modern creations and timeless Austrian classics. The Wiener Schnitzel here is, without a doubt, the best we’ve ever had. It’s an essential booking for any special occasion.Read our full, dedicated review of our experience at Lohninger here.

    Mon Amie Maxi

    Cuisine: French | Vibe: Romantic & Classic | Location: Westend | Price: €€€€

    As the name suggests, this is a classic French brasserie tucked away in the chic Westend neighborhood. The setting is intimate and romantic, with secluded booths perfect for a date night. We’ve been here on multiple occasions, and the food has always been amazing. For a truly special meal, the duck to share is an absolute must-try. It’s certainly a pricier restaurant, but for the quality and atmosphere, it’s definitely worth it.

    Franziska

    Cuisine: Modern German | Vibe: Breathtaking Views | Location: Sachsenhausen | Price: €€€€

    If you want to experience Frankfurt’s skyline from a unique angle, Franziska is the place. Located atop the Henninger Turm, it’s one of the only skyscrapers on the south side of the Main river, giving you a stunning, unobstructed view of the city’s financial district. The food is creative, but it’s important to note two things: you are paying a premium for the incredible location, and some tables can lack privacy due to the small space. Our tip: go in spring or autumn to watch the sunset during your dinner.

    For a Perfect, Casual Meal

    When you want guaranteed delicious food in a more relaxed setting, these are our top picks.

    Buffalo Steakhouse

    Cuisine: Steakhouse | Vibe: Cozy & Traditional | Location: Innenstadt | Price: €€€

    This is our favorite place in Frankfurt for a truly excellent steak. The restaurant is hidden away in a small alley near the famous Fressgass’ (eating street). The decor is cozy and traditional rather than trendy—the focus here is entirely on the quality of the food, and it delivers. Make sure to order their incredible garlic bread as a side. For bigger groups, you can even order a whole piece of meat to share.

    Pizza Montana

    Cuisine: Neapolitan Pizza | Vibe: Casual & Lively | Location: Bahnhofsviertel | Price: €

    Pizza Montana is our go-to for authentic, Neapolitan-style pizza. With two locations in the city, they serve up a perfectly soft, chewy crust and high-quality toppings. They always have a variety of creative, ever-changing special pizzas that are usually worth a try. A consistently great choice for a casual weeknight dinner.

    For an Authentic & Lively Experience

    These are the places we go when we’re craving bold, authentic flavors and a vibrant atmosphere. Comfort takes a backseat to incredible food.

    Babam

    Cuisine: Persian | Vibe: Busy & Authentic | Location: Bahnhofsviertel | Price: €€

    The Bahnhofsviertel (train station district) is one of Frankfurt’s best areas for diverse and authentic food, and Babam is a shining example. This is a simple, no-frills Persian restaurant that is always packed. People come here for one thing: the food. We love their tender lamb dishes. When you go, be sure to taste their homemade lemonade and don’t be shy with the sumac on your table—it’s a Persian spice with a wonderful lemony flavor that is perfect on grilled meat.

    Mosebach

    Cuisine: Traditional Frankfurt | Vibe: Rustic & Local | Location: Nordend-Ost | Price: €€

    You can’t write a Frankfurt food guide without mentioning at least one Apfelweinwirtschaft (apple wine tavern). Mosebach, located near the popular Berger Straße, is our favorite. This is where you go for the true local experience. I always eat the Schnitzel here, but if you want to go “full Frankfurt,” you must try something with Grüne Soße (Green Sauce), the city’s most famous dish. And of course, order your Apfelwein (apple cider) in a Bembel (a traditional stoneware jug) to share.

    Saravanaa Bhavan

    Cuisine: South Indian (Vegetarian) | Vibe: Simple & Quick | Location: Bahnhofsviertel | Price: €

    If you love South Indian food as much as I do, this is the place to try. It’s part of an international chain, but it’s famous for one thing: authentic dosas, which are thin, crispy crepes made from fermented batter, served with various fillings and sauces. They offer them in countless variations, and it’s a delicious and affordable meal.

    For a Great Night In

    GO by Steffen Henssler

    Cuisine: Sushi (Take-out) | Vibe: Restaurant-Quality at Home

    Our special tip for when you’re hungry for high-quality sushi but want to spend the night at home or in your hotel. The sushi from GO is phenomenal—it’s expensive for take-out, but it’s absolutely worth the price for the quality you receive. A perfect treat for a special night in.

    Final Thoughts on Our Frankfurt Food Guide

    We hope this Frankfurt food guide helps you discover some of the incredible food our city has to offer. This list is always evolving as we find new favorites, so be sure to check back!