Category: Europe

Pizza Pilgrimage to Pepe in Grani

Like many others, I first learned about Pepe in Grani through the Netflix series Chef’s Table.

Franco Pepe is widely recognized as one of the world’s best pizzaiolos. His restaurant, Pepe in Grani, is located in the quaint historic town of Caiazzo. It is approximately an hour’s drive from Naples or about an hour and a half by train. The restaurant can also arrange a taxi transfer back to Naples upon request.

The restaurant has an inviting atmosphere, with rustic yet charming décor. Pepe in Grani offers three distinct dining areas to suit different preferences and party sizes. The Ordinary Room offers a choice between à la carte and tasting menus. The Hall of Taste is exclusively reserved for guests enjoying the tasting menu, while the Gustarte provides a more spacious and comfortable setting for larger groups of six or more.

Pepe’s pizza dough is handmade and left to rest in traditional wooden boxes. The ingredients are seasonal and locally sourced.

The tasting menus are available for a minimum of two people, and I highly recommend making a reservation in advance to avoid a long wait. You can also indicate any allergies or intolerances when making your booking.

I chose the ESSENZA tasting menu, which included one fried pizza, four slices of assorted pizzas, and one fried dessert. If it’s your first visit, the chef will curate the selection for you. However, if you have specific preferences, you can let the staff know, and they will gladly accommodate your choices.

So, what did I think of the pizza?

I found the pizzas delicious, with unique combinations of flavors that I hadn’t experienced before. The crust, in particular, stood out for its incredibly light and airy texture. Unlike some Neapolitan pizzas, the center wasn’t soggy either. I later learned that only certain ingredients, such as mozzarella, artichokes, and prosciutto cotto, are baked together with the dough, while the remaining ingredients are added after the pizza comes out of the oven.

However, given the high expectations created by the media, I was anticipating a truly mind-blowing experience, which unfortunately didn’t quite happen for me. That said, the pizza was still excellent and unlike anything I had tried before. My advice? Go in with an open mind, leave your expectations at the door, and simply enjoy the culinary journey.

CIRO

Cone with 12-month Grana Padano DOP fondue, rocket pesto, dehydrated Caiazzo black olives.

MARGHERITA SBAGLIATA

Campana DOP Buffalo mozzarella cheese, purée of “Riccio” tomatoes, basil reduction, Evo oil.

SCARPETTA

Campana DOP Buffalo mozzarella, 12-month Grana Padano fondue, uncooked tomato compote, freeze-dried pesto basil, flakes of 24-month Grana Padano DOP cheese

MANGIABUFALO

Fabula buffalo soft cheese, fiordilatte mozzarella cheese, toasted bread with Balsamico Modena IGP vinegar, walnuts, buffalo bresaola, raw frisée, and Evo oil.

SALSICCIA E FRIARIELLI

Fiordilatte cheese, dried Casertano pork sausage, friarielli (broccoli rabe), chili pepper, buffalo ‘stracciata’ cheese, crunchy almonds, garlic EVO oil.

CRISOMMOLA DEL VESUVIO

Slice of fried pizza with lemon peels flavored DOP buffalo ricotta cheese, Vesuvio apricot jam, roasted hazelnuts, Caiazzo dehydrated olives, and fresh mint.

 

Pepe in Grani

Website: https://www.pepeingrani.it/
Telephone: +39 0823 86 27 18
Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday 18:30 p.m. – 00:30 a.m., Sundays 12:30p.m. – 15:50 p.m.
Address: Vicolo S. Giovanni Battista, 3, 81013 Caiazzo CE, Italy

Ditta Riva D’Arno, Florence

 

Located next to the Ponte alla Carraia, this café stands out as an early riser, welcoming guests from 8 am onwards. Among its three other branches in Florence, this particular café stands out with its vibrant, bright-colored mural adorning the walls and floor, infusing the space with vibrant energy.

The cafe offers an extensive selection of coffee and homemade pastries, including both sweet and savory options like croissants, cinnamon rolls, cakes, and more.

I ordered a flat white, Margarita focaccia, and ham and cheese croissant. While the ambiance may impress, the coffee leaves something to be desired, bearing a disappointing sour aftertaste. On a brighter note, the margarita focaccia and croissant with ham and cheese fare well, complemented by friendly service.

 

Ditta Riva D’Arno

Website: https://www.menudittaartigianale.com/
Telephone: +39 0553874550
Opening hours: 8:00 a.m. – 19:00 p.m. Daily
Address: Via Lungarno Soderini 7R – Firenze, IT

A Must-Try Schiacciata Sandwich at All’Antico Vinaio, Florence

All’Antico Vinaio is an institution in Florence known for its amazing schiacciata sandwiches. It is one of the city’s premier street foods and is an absolute must-try for anyone exploring the city.

During my visit in the off-peak season, I was fortunate to find a manageable line. To expedite the process, the staff cleverly encouraged customers to scan a QR code for the menu, which helped keep things moving smoothly.

Observing the sandwich being prepared right in front of me was quite satisfying. I opted for the Vegetariana 3 (featuring Gorgonzola, courgettes, sun-dried tomatoes, and rocket leaves) and the La Numero 1 (roast suckling pig, cream of onion, and roast potato cream), which cost € 16 each. I was treated to generous portions brimming with fresh, good-quality ingredients. The succulent roast suckling pig paired beautifully with the sweet onion cream, further elevating the experience.

This sandwich definitely ranks among the most exceptional and unforgettable I’ve ever tasted.

All’Antico Vinaio

Website: https://www.allanticovinaio.com/
Opening hours: Daily 10:00 a.m. – 22:00 p.m.

Main branch
Via dei Neri, 65r, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy

Piazza San Marco branch
Via Ricasoli, 121r, 50121 Firenze FI, Italy

Senoji Trobele

 

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Senoji Trobele, a restaurant known for its authentic Lithuanian cuisine, serves traditional Lithuanian favorites such as cold borscht, potato pancakes, and Cepelinai. The rustic decor and furniture and the staff’s folk outfits created an authentic atmosphere. There is also a lovely patio, and the staff was friendly.

I had a borscht soup followed by a chicken breast stuffed with cheese and apple pie.

The borscht soup had a hint of smoky flavor with a touch of tang. It was a comforting soup with well-balanced flavors. The chicken breast was juicy and tender, but in my opinion, the taste was a little muted. The Lithuanian apple pie is more like a cake. The texture was soft, spongy, and not too sweet, which paired nicely with the ice cream.

 

Borscht soup €5

Chicken breast stuffed with cheese and broccoli served with steamed asparagus, potatoes, and white wine sauce €12

Apple pie €5

Senoji Trobele

Website: https://senojitrobele.lt/en/

Opening hours: 

Monday to Friday    11:00 a.m. – 23:00 p.m.
Saturday & Sunday  12:00 p.m. – 23:00 p.m.

Telephone: +370 609 99002

Address: Naugarduko g. 36, Vilnius

GOSPA / Georg Ots Spa hotell

The Georg Ots Spa Hotel (GOSPA) is a stone’s throw from the Kuressaare castle. The restaurant serves spa cuisine with fresh, locally grown ingredients in a spacious contemporary setting overlooking the harbor and castle.

The menu at GOSPA is simple yet delicious. The dishes are characteristic of the island. Vegan and vegetarian dishes are available, including gluten-free.

I ordered vegan vegetable soup and lamb pasta. While waiting for the food, I was served fresh bread with Saaremaa butter. I love the big glass windows. It was a beautiful day, and I was mesmerized by the view outside.

The pasta was beautifully cooked in a rich and smooth sauce. The soup was a brightly colored delight with different red, yellow, green, white, and brown hues. It was not only healthy and hearty but also delicious with bright acidity.

 

Vegan Ramen: Seasonal vegetables in vegetable broth  €9
(carrots, roasted bell pepper, and zucchini, parsley, snap pea, champignon, marinated red and yellow pepper, sprouts)

Lamb bolognese €12
(Casarecca pasta, Muhu minced lamb, Saaremaa smoked bacon, Rautsi Farm’s carrots, onion, garlic, basil, tomato sauce, parmesan)

Georg Ots Spa Hotel

Opening hours:
Sun-Thu 12:00 p.m. – 22:00 p.m.
Fri – Sat 12:00 p.m.  – 23.00 p.m.
Breakfast
Mon-Fri 7:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.
Sat-Sun 7:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Telephone: + 372 45 50 000
Address: Georg Ots Spa hotel ,Tori 2, Kuressaare, 93810, Saaremaa

Samurai ramen

Samurai Ramen serves pork and fish broth ramen as well as Tokyo-style ramen (ramen served in chicken broth). They also offer sushi and a variety of stir-fried noodles. All the noodles are handmade.

One interesting thing that caught my attention on the menu was the hot sushi. I had not heard of hot sushi until I came here. It is basically deep-fried sushi. To indulge my curiosity, I got the rabbit crunch consisting of crabsticks, cucumber, and Philadelphia cream cheese. Deep frying the sushi, in my opinion, did not alter the taste too much. It adds warmth to the dish, and the crunchy crust gives it extra texture. I absolutely loved it! It should be available everywhere – who does not enjoy deep-fried food!

I ordered the red samurai ramen, which is noodles in a spicy pork broth topped with egg, baby corn, pork slices, asparagus, and scallions. The bright red color of the broth gives the impression that the soup is quite spicy, but on the contrary. The heat level was mild. The ramen broth was flavorful and comforting.

Red samurai ramen € 8.90

Rabbit crunch € 3.49

 

Samurai Ramen

Website: https://samurairamen.lt/

Opening hours:

Sunday to Thursday 11:30 a.m – 21:00 p.m

Friday and Saturday 11:30 a.m. – 22:00 p.m.

Telephone: +370 630 73822

Address: H. Manto g. 1, Klaipėda 92127, Lithuania

10 Tiltų Café: A Cozy Coffee Stop in Klaipėda

Located in the heart of Klaipėda Old Town, 10 Tiltų Café is a cozy and stylish café with artistic décor and a relaxed atmosphere. It felt like a lovely place to take a break while exploring the city.

There isn’t a traditional menu. Instead, you order from the menu board and choose from the display case, which offers a selection of drinks, cakes, and sandwiches.

I stopped by for a coffee and a slice of cake, and both were excellent. The coffee was smooth and full of flavour, while the cake was fresh and delicious.

I really enjoyed my visit to 10 Tiltų Café. It’s a great spot to relax with a good cup of coffee and something sweet.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

10 tiltų cafe

Website: https://www.facebook.com/10tiltukavine/

Opening hours: 

Telephone: +370 698 80216

Address: Turgaus g. 19 Klaipeda, Lithuania 91249

Višta Puode

“Vista puode” means chicken in the pot.”  The owner of the restaurant serves food that he enjoyed during his childhood days. The restaurant is separated into three areas but connected by one kitchen. Svetainė (the living room) serves breakfast, Traktierius (the tavern) serves lunch and snacks, and Restoranas (the restaurant) is a space dedicated to special occasions and dinners.

I dined in the living room as the tavern was full during lunch. The place had an inviting, bright, and rustic interior with interesting decorations.

The table mat has the history of the restaurant’s name and some local food, so you can have a read while waiting for the food.

I had just arrived in Kaunas, and it was a chilly day. The soup was perfect; it tasted like grandmother’s homemade chicken soup. The chicken cutlet was tender and juicy, and the potato puree was very flavorful.

Other than the slow service, the food was delicious. This is a restaurant worth checking out if you are in the area.

Lemonade €2.90

Slow-cooked chicken broth €2.50

Chicken cutlet with soft cheese served with potato puree €6. 40

 

Višta Puode

Website: https://xn--vitapuode-m3b.lt/

Opening hours: Daily 8:00 a.m. – 23:00 p.m.

Telephone: +370 693 63777

Address: S. Daukanto g. 23, Kaunas

 

Rataskaevu 16: Warm Hospitality and One of Tallinn’s Best Dining Experiences

Rataskaevu 16 (named after the street) is a restaurant in a historic building. I love the rustic feel of the interior, with its historical tavern brick wall, wooden floor, and furniture, yet with a modern touch.

As I was waiting for my food, a constant flow of people entered the restaurant. Many had to be turned away, but the waitress recommended similar restaurants nearby; some even made reservations for that evening when they couldn’t get a table for lunch. I highly recommend making a reservation.

The waiters are young, friendly, and bubbly, especially the guy that served me. I ordered a strawberry raspberry lemonade, elk mushroom soup, and buckwheat noodles.

The bread was warm and soft, with a slight crust on the outer edges. It was not sour like the traditional dark rye bread but mildly sweet. It was the softest dark rye bread I’ve had and the best restaurant-served rye bread in the Baltics. I could just have bread for lunch.

The strawberry raspberry lemonade was like a fruity virgin mojito.

The Elk mushroom soup was rich and packed with umami. Absolutely divine! The texture of the elk meat is grainy, and the taste of the meat is a cross between pork and beef.

The buckwheat noodles were refreshing, with fresh salad greens and a light pumpkin puree with rye shavings.

After I paid, I told the waiter that the food was delicious and that I understood why the restaurant was so popular amongst locals and tourists. I don’t usually give tips, but I was so pleased with the entire dining experience that I had to tip!

I recommend this restaurant not just for the warm and friendly service but also for the excellent quality food.

 

Rataskaevu 16

Website: http://rataskaevu16.ee/en/

Opening hours:

  • Mon-Thu 12.00-23.00, Fri-Sat 12.00-24.00, Sun 12.00-23.00

Telephone: +372 642 4025

Address: Rataskaevu 16, 10123 Tallinn, Estonia

Džiaugsmas Vilnius: Contemporary Lithuanian Flavours in a Historic Setting

As one of the 30 best restaurants in Lithuania, Džiaugsmas serves contemporary Lithuanian cuisine. There is a history to this building. The building was once occupied by a famous Russian poet and Nobel Prize winner – Joseph Brodsky. The plaque in memory of Joseph is visible on the front of the building. There is a tiny sign next to the entrance. You won’t be able to see it unless you’re standing in front of the restaurant. I could not tell from the facade of the building that it was a restaurant. It was like walking into someone’s home.

The restaurant has three floors and rooms for private dining. Its interior is decorated with dark accent walls and furnishings.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The food was served in rustic porcelain dinnerware.

I was first served their homemade rye bread with lard, sunflower seeds, and butter with salt.

For the main course, I had the chicken schnitzel, which had a Nordic twist to it. The chicken had a lovely golden-brown super-crisp crust. The chicken was juicy, tender, and packed with flavor. The fermented currants pop in your mouth with acidic and sweet juices. The chimichurri topping was mild, earthy, herby with a hint of lemony taste, and the horseradish sauce was light, fluffy, sweet, creamy, and smooth. All of these flavors combined made this dish amazingly delectable. It’s one of the best schnitzels I’ve had in terms of flavor and texture.

The salad was fresh and dressed with a vinaigrette. The baby potatoes were waxy and smooth in texture and had a subtle sweet flavor. The sauce for the potatoes was a rich umami broth—absolutely delicious!

I asked the waiter for a recommendation for the dessert. He suggested the angel wings, which is a nostalgic dessert for him, bringing him back to his childhood. The restaurant’s innovative version of the angel wings was beautifully plated. The red from the strawberry powder gave the dish a visual pop. The angel wings were delicately crispy. The ice cream and egg cream were light and velvety. There is a good balance of sweetness and acidity.

I truly enjoyed my dining experience at Džiaugsmas. The combination of creative Lithuanian cuisine, beautiful presentation, and warm service made it one of my most memorable meals in Vilnius.

Džiaugsmas water € 3.50 

Schnitzel, herb butter sauce, fermented currants, potatoes, fresh salad, horseradish cream € 15

Angel wings, tonka beans ice cream, strawberries, caramel, egg cream € 6

 

Džiaugsmas

Website: http://www.dziaugsmas.com/ & https://www.facebook.com/dziaugsmas.restoranas/

Opening hours: Monday to Saturday 17:00 pm. – 23:00 p.m.

Telephone: +37063111153

Address:  Vilniaus g. 28, LT-01402, Vilnius