Eyebrows were raised when I told some Italian friends that we were travelling to Modena for a weekend trip. Although Modena is renowned in Italy for its liquid gold or Aceto Balsamico, Parmigiano Reggiano, salumi such as the culatello and freshly made pasta many would probably skip a visit to this buzzing city unless they are either Ferrari fans or else heading for a … [Read more...]
Archives for June 2014
Osteria Francescana – the pursuit of perfection
Italian chef Massimo Bottura is a genius who has brought Italian cuisine to a completely different level. If France is renowned for its obsession with classics and Spain is the culinary hub of innovation, Italy is steeped in tradition. It is a country which takes its critics seriously. I remember a football coach once saying that the country had 60 million football coaches. A … [Read more...]
Kokuban – a great Japanese place in Brussels
Brussels is not just the heart of Europe, it is also a place with many hidden culinary surprises. You just need to know what you are looking for. Japan has a special place in our hearts especially given the fact that my wife and I spent our honeymoon there and long to return back every time we remember that experience. So we are always on the lookout for Japanese places to … [Read more...]
Jigger’s – one of Gent’s best kept secrets
We have been hearing about Jigger's - The Noble Drug Store for quite some time. So it was indeed great that I finally discovered one of Gent's best kept secrets last Wednesday. Without knowing this secret, you will walk past this splendid cocktail bar and not notice it. But if you look out for the stuffed fox which is the the window, then you are bound not to miss it. It … [Read more...]
Rene Redzepi (Noma) – breaking new ground
36-year-old Rene Redzepi is on top of the culinary world again after regaining top spot for his restaurant Noma in the World's 50 best restaurants. Yesterday he was in Gent to present his new book A Work in Progress which is part journal, part recipe book and a flick book. He gave an inspirational talk while reading parts of his journal which recounts the day-to-day life at … [Read more...]
