
My husband and I love coffee. One of our favorite things to do is try third-wave roasters whenever we visit a new city. We stayed in Barcelona, Spain for a month, trying new coffee shops almost every day and talking to baristas. Here is our report and the "report cards" for these roasters.

## Contents

## Lodetta
Tucked away in a quiet neighborhood, **Lodetta** is a bicycle-themed specialty cafe that operates completely off the radar of standard tourists. Frequented by local residents and cycling enthusiasts, it represents the pinnacle of community-focused third-wave coffee.

![Lodetta](/assets/blog/best-specialty-coffee-shops-barcelona-2026/lodetta.jpg)
*The Magic and flat white at Lodetta*

![Lodetta Pastries](/assets/blog/best-specialty-coffee-shops-barcelona-2026/lodetta-pastries.jpg)
*Pastries on display at Lodetta*

* **Address:** Carrer de Valldonzella, 36, 08001 Barcelona
* **Roast and Extraction:** The shop has mastered modern extraction methods, including **high-yield turbo shots**. A turbo shot utilizes a slightly coarser grind and faster flow rate under lower pressure, which excels at highlighting the clean acidity and sweetness of light-roasted specialty beans.
* **The Beans We Tried:**
  * *Pacamara Washed (El Salvador):* Sourced from a lower altitude, this cup is remarkably clean, showing the classic balanced structure of a washed Pacamara.
  * *Honey Process (Colombia):* Grown at high altitude, this coffee is incredibly complex, offering distinct, layered flavor transitions as the cup cools.
* **The Vibe:** Authentic, unpretentious, and highly technical. It is a tiny, hidden gem where locals carry punchcards, and tourists are rarely seen. The latte art and grinding are exceptionally precise.

---

## SIP Coffee
Located in the heart of Barcelona near La Rambla, **SIP Coffee** is a small, cozy space that is consistently packed with discerning coffee drinkers. It stands out for its high-end bean menu and precise brewing parameters.

![SIP Coffee](/assets/blog/best-specialty-coffee-shops-barcelona-2026/sip-coffee.jpg)
*Enjoying a flat white and talking beans at SIP Coffee*

* **Address:** Carrer del Pintor Fortuny, 22, 08001 Barcelona
* **Bean Menu:** SIP routinely carries competition-grade varieties like **Geisha** and **Pink Bourbon**. 

![SIP Gesha Cold Brew](/assets/blog/best-specialty-coffee-shops-barcelona-2026/sip-gesha-coldbrew.jpg)
*A Gesha cold brew drink brewed by the barista, but not on the menu*

* **The "Magic" Drink:** In addition to classics like cortados and flat whites, SIP serves the Melbourne-style **Magic**. A Magic is prepared with a double ristretto (a shorter, sweeter espresso pull) and topped with steamed milk in a smaller cup with minimal microfoam. This creates a much more intense, espresso-forward flavor profile compared to a traditional flat white.
* **The Beans We Tried:**
  * *Brazil Washed:* A little over extracted, which made it a bit bitter and lack sweetness.  
  * *Costa Rica Milenio H10 (Black Diamond Natural Process):* An outstanding cup featuring a distinct, wine-like aroma and intense fruitiness. The first sip was incredible—my husband and I couldn't find a single shop in Texas that could replicate this flavor (except for our own home bar, of course! 😅). My daughter tried it as well and was impressed by the tasting notes she could pick out. She's still too young to drink coffee regularly, but she's already on her way to becoming a serious coffee connoisseur.
* **The Vibe:** Passionate and educational. The baristas are highly engaged and eager to talk about the genetics, processing, and terroir of their beans.
* **Takeaway:** Natural processed beans make very easy to dial. The fermentation flavor is strong and distinct, which means you don't need to extract it as precisely as washed beans to taste the delicate floral and fruit notes. 

---

## Nomad Coffee
**Nomad Coffee** is a legendary name in the Spanish specialty coffee scene. Tucked away in a charming, narrow pedestrian alleyway, this roastery has become an international destination, drawing coffee tourists from around the world.

![Nomad Espresso Machine](/assets/blog/best-specialty-coffee-shops-barcelona-2026/nomad-espresso-machine.jpg)
*The espresso machine setup at Nomad Coffee*

* **Address:** Passatge Sert, 12, 08003 Barcelona
* **Extraction Philosophy:** The milk texturing here is exceptionally fine and velvety. To prevent milk from overpowering the delicate tasting notes of the coffee, order a **Flat White** or a **Magic**, both of which maintain a higher ratio of espresso to milk.

![Nomad Coffee Menu](/assets/blog/best-specialty-coffee-shops-barcelona-2026/nomad-menu.jpg)
*Looking over the seasonal menu at Nomad Coffee*

* **The Beans We Tried:**
  * *Colombia Chambaku (Washed):* A clean, structured cup with distinct chocolate and nutty undertones.
  * *Ethiopia Natural Process:* Extremely fruit-forward with intense, sweet fermentation notes—a textbook representation of natural processing.
* **The Vibe:** Sleek and professional. Unlike other quiet alleys, we finally spotted several Chinese tourists here, suggesting it's likely a viral hit on Chinese social media. I watched some of them ordering iced coffee and couldn't help but feel a bit sorry for them—extreme cold masks the true complexity and aroma of specialty beans, which is why we highly recommend drinking these hot. The barista here was incredibly skilled; when I asked how long he had been in the craft, he replied "two years." That gave me hope that with enough dedication, I could reach a similar level in my own coffee journey!

---

## LOT Roasters
**LOT Roasters** is a modern, minimalist space designed with a clean black-and-white color palette. It has a warm, family-run atmosphere (complete with kids playing games nearby), and functions as both a specialty roastery and an artisanal chocolate factory.

![LOT Roasters](/assets/blog/best-specialty-coffee-shops-barcelona-2026/lot-coffee.jpg)
*The coffee we ordered at LOT Roasters*

* **Address:** Carrer de Bailèn, 43, 08010 Barcelona
* **The In-House Advantage:** Unlike many city cafes, LOT roasts all of its beans on-site in a dedicated roasting room. They also craft their own single-origin chocolates using exceptionally clean, minimal ingredients.
* **Coffee Experience:** The baristas offer single-origin selections like a **Honey-Processed Peru**. However, during high-volume periods, the service can feel slightly rushed and impatient, with one-word descriptions like "Peru" and "Honey Process". In a true specialty shop, you should feel the passion for the craft; at SIP (or at our own home bar), asking about a bean will spark an enthusiastic, long conversation about coffee. Here, that warmth was missing.
* **Food Pairing:** The house-made pastries and baked goods are exceptional. We saw someone order their baked oatmeal topped with chocolate chips, which looked so delicious it inspired me to add chocolate chips to my own baked oatmeal recipe in the future!

![LOT Pastries](/assets/blog/best-specialty-coffee-shops-barcelona-2026/lot-pastries.jpg)
*The pastries my son ordered at LOT Roasters*

---

## Core Coffee
Located directly on the busy tourist corridor of **La Rambla**, **Core Coffee** serves a high volume of visitors. While it is a convenient stop, it is priced higher (around €4.00 per cup compared to SIP's €3.20) due to its prime location.

![Core Coffee](/assets/blog/best-specialty-coffee-shops-barcelona-2026/core-coffee.jpg)
*Core Coffee near La Rambla. The foam was not great.*

* **Address:** Carrer de la Petxina, 1, 08003 Barcelona
* **Roasting & Sourcing:** Core does not roast their own beans; they contract their roasting to external partners. A hallmark of top-tier specialty coffee is direct, in-house roasting, which allows for tighter quality control.
* **The Flavor Profile:** Their single-origin Mexican bean presents a heavy, chocolate-forward profile that lacks distinct layers or acidity. It drinks more like a traditional espresso blend, making it suitable for milk-heavy drinks like lattes but less exciting for black coffee purists. We later learned they outsource both their baking and their roasting (sourcing their pastries from the famous Escribà). A senior coffee shop should roast their own beans; when a shop outsources both its baking and its roasting, it's hard to feel the dedication of a true third-wave roastery.

---

## D Origin Coffee Roasters
Displaying a plaque naming it one of the "Top 100 Coffee Shops in the World" (a certification system we also ran into in Colombia), **D Origin Coffee Roasters** charges premium prices (€4.20 per cup) in a high-traffic area. While the shop excels at visual presentation and intricate latte art (such as unicorns and tulips), the actual coffee extraction falls short.

![D Origin Coffee](/assets/blog/best-specialty-coffee-shops-barcelona-2026/d-origin-coffee.jpg)
*Beautifully poured latte art at D Origin Coffee Roasters, but tasted not the best.*

* **Address:** Carrer de Casp, 48, 08010 Barcelona
* **The Issues:**
  * *Over-Extraction:* The single-origin espresso is noticeably over-extracted, yielding a cup that starts with a sharp bitterness and turns increasingly astringent as it cools.
  * *Milk Texturing:* In milk-based drinks like lattes, the milk is often over-aerated, resulting in a flat, milky beverage where the coffee's origin characteristics are entirely lost.
* **Takeaway:** While the young barista poured an impressive unicorn and a tulip, he lacked real foundation. A great cup of coffee requires passion at every stage—from bean selection and roasting to grinding, milk texturing, and pulling the shot. Here, only the latte art showed any effort. It was a style-over-substance disappointment.

---

## Key Specialty Coffee Concepts to Know

To get the most out of your specialty coffee experience, keep these three principles in mind:

### 1. Natural vs. Washed Processing vs. Honey Processing
How a coffee cherry is processed after harvest dramatically impacts what you taste in the cup:
* **Washed Process:** The fruit pulp is completely removed from the bean before drying. This yields a clean, bright cup with high acidity and distinct, structured tasting notes (like citrus, jasmine, or nuts).
* **Natural Process:** The coffee beans are dried inside the whole coffee cherry. This allows the sugars from the fruit to ferment on the bean, producing a full-bodied, fruit-forward cup with a wine-like, complex aroma and distinct sweetness.
* **Honey Process:** The coffee beans are dried with some of the fruit pulp (mucilage) still attached to the bean. This yields a cup that has a balance of sweetness and acidity, with a full body and a complex aroma.

### 2. Flat White vs. Cortado vs. Magic vs. Latte
If you prefer milk with your espresso, the ratio and milk texture change the strength of the beverage:
* **Cortado:** Equal parts espresso and steamed milk (1:1 ratio), served in a small glass. Strong and balanced.
* **Flat White:** A double shot of espresso topped with a thin layer of velvety microfoam (1:3 ratio). Smooth and integrated.
* **Magic:** A double *ristretto* shot topped with steamed milk in a small cup (1:2 ratio). It is stronger and sweeter than a flat white, with less microfoam.
* **Latte:** A double shot of espresso with steamed milk and a layer of microfoam (1:4 ratio). It is the milkiest of the four drinks, with the mildest espresso flavor.

### 3. The Temperature Rule
Avoid ordering ice coffee when tasting high-end single-origin beans. Extreme cold numbs the taste receptors on your tongue and masks the delicate, volatile aromatic compounds in the coffee. To experience the true acidity, sweetness, and complexity of a specialty roast, drink it hot and allow it to cool slightly as you sip.

## Our 2026 Barcelona Specialty Coffee Rankings

* **1. Lodetta** (Neighborhood gem, bicycle-themed) — *Key Recommendation:* Pacamara Washed or Honey Process (Turbo Shot)
* **2 (tie). SIP Coffee** (High-end beans, Geisha/Bourbon) — *Key Recommendation:* Melbourne-style "Magic" with Natural process
* **2 (tie). Nomad Coffee** (Masterful extraction, legendary brand) — *Key Recommendation:* Flat White or Magic (Colombia Chambaku Washed)
* **4. LOT Roasters** (In-house bean roasting & chocolate making) — *Key Recommendation:* Single-origin pour-overs and chocolate-chip oatmeal
* **5. Core Coffee** (High-traffic tourist spot on La Rambla) — *Key Recommendation:* Classic milk-based blend (Chocolatey profile)
* **6. D Origin Coffee Roasters** (High-end branding, but poor execution) — *Key Recommendation:* Latte (if you prefer milk-forward drinks)


## Our Secrets for Finding a good Third-Wave Coffee Shop

Coffee shops are everywhere. Each of them claim to be a specialty coffee shop. But they are not. How to find a good third-wave coffee shop? Here are our secrets:

### 1. They roast their own beans. 
This is the most important factor. If they don't roast their own beans, they are not a specialty coffee shop.

### 2. Baristas know more than making latte art. 
They need to know about many things: The bean origin, The bean processing method, The bean roast profile, The bean brewing parameters.

### 3. Baristas are passionate about their craft!

If barista does not want to say much about the coffee, then it is not a specialty coffee shop.
    
  

Our Favorite Specialty/Third-Wave Coffee Shops in Barcelona 2026


If you’re new to the Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex and looking for some great spots to enjoy a variety of delicious foods, here are some of my favorites. 

## Contents

## Desserts
- **[Piefalootin](http://www.piefalootin.com) (Garland)**: A dessert lover’s paradise.

## BBQ
- **[Hutchins BBQ](https://hutchinsbbq.com) (McKinney and Frisco)**: Fantastic meats and sides, great beef ribs, plus free desserts.
- **[Tender Smokehouse](https://www.instagram.com/tendersmokehouse/) (Frisco)**: Best known for their pork ribs (not brisket).
- **[Linke's BBQ](https://www.facebook.com/LinkesBBQ/) (Wylie)**: Great brisket.
- **[Terry Black's](https://www.terryblacksbbq.com) (Dallas)**: Great beef ribs.
- **[El Tejas Twist](https://www.facebook.com/ElTejasTwist/) (Forney)**: Great beef ribs.
- **[Smoke Sessions](https://www.smokesessionsbbq.com) (Royse City)**: Excellent brisket and amazing potato salad.


## Steaks
- **[Eddie V’s](https://www.eddiev.com) (Dallas)**: High-end dining experience.
- **[Silver Fox](https://www.silverfoxcafe.com) (Fort Worth, Richardson)**: Elegant atmosphere with delicious steaks.
- **[Bob’s Steak & Chop House](https://www.bobs-steakandchop.com) (Dallas)**: A well-known favorite.
- **[Pappa Bros. Steakhouse](https://pappasbros.com) (Dallas)**: Premium steak experience.
- **[Perry’s Steakhouse & Grille](https://perryssteakhouse.com) (Dallas)**: Known for their pork chops as well.
- **[The Winewood Grill](https://thewinewood.com) (Grapevine)**: A great spot for steak in Grapevine.


## Italian
- **[Terra at Eataly](https://www.eataly.com/us_en/stores/dallas) (North Park, Dallas)**: Authentic Italian dishes. Check out the Terra restaurant within Eataly, a branch of the renowned Italian marketplace founded by Oscar Farinetti.


## Tex-Mex
- **[El Tejas Twist](https://www.facebook.com/ElTejasTwist/) (Forney)**: A unique blend of Tex-Mex and BBQ.
- **[Mena's](https://www.menastexmexgrill.com) (Flower Mound, Richardson and Carrollton)**: Classic Tex-Mex dishes.
- **[Cuquita’s](https://cuquitasrestaurants.comm) (Garland, Dallas, and Farmer’s Branch)**: Another favorite for Tex-Mex.
- **[Esparza’s](https://www.esparzastexas.com) (Grapevine)**: Known for their enchiladas and more.
- **[Gonzales Tex-Mex](http://www.gonzalezrestaurant.com/aboutus.html) (Dallas)**: Best homemade flour tortillas.
- **[Sueño](https://www.suenocm.com) (Richardson)**: Top-notch dining experience.


## Tacos
- **[Tranky's Tacos](https://www.trankystacos.com) (Garland)**: A must-try for taco lovers.


## Fancy Mexican Restaurant
- **[The Mexican](https://www.themexican.com) (Dallas)**: For a more upscale Mexican dining experience.

## Tamales
- **[El Tejas Twist](https://www.facebook.com/ElTejasTwist/) (Forney)**: If you need to buy them.
- **[Tamaleria Nuevo León](https://www.facebook.com/p/Tamaleria-Nuevo-León-100063717664037/) (Richardson)**: Their spicy pork tamales are the best.
- **[House Tamal](https://www.yelp.com/biz/house-tamal-garland) (Garland)**: Another great spot for tamales.


## Cajun
- **[The South](https://thesouthwylie.com) (Wylie)**: Best homemade Cajun food. (Also, the owner is one of our neighbors!)

## Seafood
- **[Pappadeaux](https://pappadeaux.com/home/) (Multiple Locations)**: Excellent seafood dishes, not just fried options. Favorites include the Mahi (or Salmon) Alexander and blackened sea bass.
- **[Flying Fish](https://flyingfishrestaurant.com) (Plano, Garland)**: Great, casual, consistent, and inexpensive seafood. The Plano location is better than the Garland location.
- **[Anaya’s Seafood](https://www.anayaseafood.com) (Richardson)**: Another favorite.
- **[Urban Seafood](https://www.urbanseafoodcompany.com) (Plano)**: Fantastic calamari steak, though it might be a special and not always on the menu.



## Burgers
- **[Tranky's Tacos](https://www.trankystacos.com) (Garland)**: Yes, they have great burgers too.
- **[Burger House](https://burgerhouse.com) (Garland)**: Classic burgers.
- **[Boots Burgers](https://www.bootsburgers.com) (Rockwall)**: A local favorite.
- **[Liberty Burger](https://www.libertyburger.com) (Multiple Locations)**: Right next to Silver Fox, great burgers.


## Pizza
- **[Urban Crust](https://urbancrust.com) (Plano)**: Delicious wood-fired pizza.
- **[Zanata](https://www.zanatas.com) (Rockwall)**: Great pizza spot. Try the grilled pork chop with lobster truffle risotto and the Z salad. The shrimp and shrooms dish is popular but may be on the specials menu. It's best to arrive early (around 5pm) to avoid a long wait, especially on Wednesdays. After 8pm, it’s easier to get a table.
- **[Venezia Cafe](https://www.veneziaspizzarichardson.com) (Richardson/Murphy)**: Fantastic Italian-style pizza.
- **[Zalat](https://www.zalatpizza.com) (CityLine, Richardson)**: Great for a quick pizza fix.

## Fried Chicken
- **[Babe’s Chicken](https://www.babeschicken.com) (Multiple Locations)**: All locations are fantastic for fried chicken.
- **[Ricky’s Hot Chicken](https://www.rickyshotchicken.com) (Richardson)**: Best for chicken tenders and fries. Note that everything is spicy, even the "mild," so it’s not for everyone.


## Salad and Sandwiches
- **[Eatzi’s](https://eatzis.com) (Plano)**: Great selection of salads and sandwiches.

----
All these spots are within a 30-minute drive and are definitely worth the trip. Enjoy exploring the culinary delights of the DFW Metroplex!




My Favorite Food Spots in DFW Metro Area (2024)


In July 2024, we visited Lisbon as part of our around-the-world summer trip. In this post, I'll share my favorite foods and drinks from our stay.

## Contents

## Food

### Cod Cake (Bolinhos de Bacalhau)

**What is it?**  
Cod cakes, or Bolinhos de Bacalhau, are traditional Portuguese snacks made from a mixture of salted cod, potatoes, onions, parsley, and eggs, which are then deep-fried until golden and crispy.

**History**  
Salted cod, known as bacalhau, has been a staple in Portuguese cuisine for centuries, dating back to the Age of Discoveries in the 15th and 16th centuries. Portuguese sailors needed food that could be preserved for long voyages, and bacalhau was the perfect solution. Bolinhos de Bacalhau were created as a way to make a delicious and portable meal from this staple.

**Taste**  
These delightful cakes have a crispy exterior with a soft, flavorful interior. The salted cod gives a unique taste that's both savory and slightly salty, perfectly complemented by the creamy potato and aromatic herbs.

![Making of Cod Cake](/assets/blog/food-drinks-to-try-in-lisbon-portugal/making-of-cod-cake.jpg)
*Making of Cod Cake*

![Cod Cake and Rice](/assets/blog/food-drinks-to-try-in-lisbon-portugal/cod-cake-and-rice.jpg)
*Cod Cake and Rice we had in Faro*

We had our first one not in Lisbon, but in Faro, and it quickly became a favorite!



![Cod Fish Cake](/assets/blog/food-drinks-to-try-in-lisbon-portugal/cod-fish-cake.jpg)
*Cod Fish Cake*
### Polvo (Octopus)

**What is it?**  
Polvo refers to octopus, a beloved seafood in Portuguese cuisine, often featured in various dishes from grilled preparations to salads.

**History**  
Octopus has been consumed in Portugal for centuries, often associated with coastal communities where fishing is a way of life. Polvo à Lagareiro, a popular dish involving roasted octopus with potatoes, is a traditional recipe that has been passed down through generations.

**Taste**  
My family loves octopus dishes for their tender yet slightly chewy texture and the rich, briny flavor. When grilled, the octopus has a smoky, charred exterior while remaining juicy and tender inside. When fried, it offers a delightful crunch.

We enjoyed a fantastic grilled octopus dish and a fried octopus sandwich at *Restaurante O Tasco Do Vigário* near the flea market.

One of the top places to try octopus in Lisbon is *Quiosque de São Paulo* in downtown *Cais do Sodré*. Run by the same people behind *Taberna da Rua das Flores*, this kiosk serves meticulously prepared snacks. The octopus salad, featuring cooked octopus with finely diced peppers, onion, coriander, olive oil, white wine vinegar, and salt, is a must-try and arguably one of the best in Lisbon. Though the portions are small, the quality is worth it, and you can always order more or try their legendary fried squid sandwich.

![Octopus Salad](/assets/blog/food-drinks-to-try-in-lisbon-portugal/octopus-salad.jpg)
*Octopus Salad that we had at Quiosque de São Paulo*

![Octopus Sandwich](/assets/blog/food-drinks-to-try-in-lisbon-portugal/octopus-sandwich.jpg)
*Fried Octopus Sandwich that we had at Quiosque de São Paulo*


![Octopus Rice](/assets/blog/food-drinks-to-try-in-lisbon-portugal/octpus-rice.jpg)
*Octopus Rice that we had at Tasco Do Marinheiro*

![Grilled Octopus](/assets/blog/food-drinks-to-try-in-lisbon-portugal/grilled-octopus.jpg)
*Grilled Octopus that we had at Restaurante O Tasco Do Vigário*


### Sardinha (Sardine)

**What is it?**  
Sardinhas are fresh sardines, often grilled whole and served simply with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt.

**History**  
Grilled sardines, or Sardinhas Assadas, are a highlight of the popular festival, Festa de Santo António, held every June in Lisbon. This tradition dates back to the early 20th century and celebrates Saint Anthony, the city's patron saint. During this time, the streets of Lisbon are filled with the aroma of grilled sardines.

**Taste**  
These small, oily fish are packed with flavor, offering a perfect balance of smokiness from the grill and natural, briny goodness. The flesh is tender and juicy, making for a satisfying bite.

### Arroz de Marisco (Seafood Rice)

**What is it?**  
Arroz de Marisco is a Portuguese seafood rice dish similar to a risotto or paella, brimming with a variety of seafood such as shrimp, clams, mussels, and sometimes lobster, all cooked in a rich, flavorful broth.

**History**  
This dish is a relatively modern creation, reflecting Portugal's rich maritime heritage. It showcases the country's abundant seafood and is a popular dish in coastal regions. The concept of combining rice with seafood likely has influences from neighboring Spain and their famous paella.

**Taste**  
This dish is a seafood lover's dream, with each bite bursting with the ocean's essence. The rice is perfectly cooked, absorbing all the savory flavors from the seafood and broth, creating a harmonious and hearty meal.

![Seafood Rice](/assets/blog/food-drinks-to-try-in-lisbon-portugal/seafood-rice.jpg)
*Seafood Rice that we had at Tasco Do Marinheiro*

### Grilled Seafood

Lisbon is famous for its fresh and flavorful grilled seafood. Here are some popular options you must try:

- **Grilled Octopus**: Locally sourced octopus, expertly grilled to perfection with a smoky, charred exterior and tender, juicy interior.
- **Grilled Sardines**: Local sardines are a favorite, especially during the summer festivals. Grilled to a crisp and served with a simple seasoning of olive oil and sea salt.
- **Grilled Salmon**: While not locally sourced (typically from colder seas), grilled salmon is a popular choice for its rich, fatty texture and slightly smoky flavor. This is my favorite!
- **Grilled Bream**: This locally sourced fish is another staple, offering a delicate, flaky texture and mild, sweet flavor when grilled.

![Grilled Tuna](/assets/blog/food-drinks-to-try-in-lisbon-portugal/grilled-tuna.jpg)
*Grilled Tuna*

Each type of seafood is enhanced by the grilling process, which adds a unique, smoky flavor while preserving the natural taste and freshness of the fish.


![Grilled Bream](/assets/blog/food-drinks-to-try-in-lisbon-portugal/grilled-bream.jpg)
*Grilled Bream that we had at Tasco Do Marinheiro*

![Grilled Salmon](/assets/blog/food-drinks-to-try-in-lisbon-portugal/grilled-salmon.jpg)
*Grilled Salmon*

![Grilled Sardine](/assets/blog/food-drinks-to-try-in-lisbon-portugal/grilled-sardine.jpg)
*Grilled Sardine*


## Drinks

### Ginja

**What is Ginja?**  
Ginja, also known as Ginjinha, is a Portuguese liqueur made by infusing ginja berries (sour cherries) in alcohol, often with added sugar and sometimes cinnamon.

**History**  
Ginja originated in the 19th century in Lisbon, particularly in the Bairro Alto district. A Galician friar named Francisco Espinheira created the first batch, and it quickly became a popular local drink. Several traditional establishments, such as A Ginjinha, continue to serve this liqueur, preserving its historical significance.

**Taste**  
Ginja is sweet and slightly tart, with a robust cherry flavor and a hint of spice. It is often served in a shot glass or a small chocolate cup, making for a delicious and unique treat.

*A Ginjinha* is the first bar to sell ginjinha in Lisbon, and is a designated Loja Com História (historic shop). A Ginjinha has been pouring its signature sour cherry liqueur, Espinheira Ginja, since 1840. 

![Ginja Shop](/assets/blog/food-drinks-to-try-in-lisbon-portugal/ginja-shop.jpg)
*Ginja Shop called A Ginjinha, near Praça do Rossio (Rossio Square)*

![Pouring Ginja](/assets/blog/food-drinks-to-try-in-lisbon-portugal/pouring-ginja.jpg)
*The shop owner pouring Ginja for us at A Ginjinha*

Enjoying Ginja in a chocolate cup adds an extra layer of decadence, as the rich chocolate melts in your mouth, blending perfectly with the cherry liqueur.

![Ginja in Chocolate Cup](/assets/blog/food-drinks-to-try-in-lisbon-portugal/ginja-in-chocolate-cup.jpg)
*Ginja in Chocolate Cup*

![Ginja Stores](/assets/blog/food-drinks-to-try-in-lisbon-portugal/ginja-stores.jpg)
*Ginja Bottles displayed at A Ginjinha*

### Sangria

**What is Sangria?**  
Sangria is a popular Spanish and Portuguese punch made with red or white wine, mixed with various fruits, a sweetener, and sometimes a splash of brandy or other spirits.

**History**  
Sangria has roots in the Iberian Peninsula dating back to the Middle Ages. It became particularly popular in the 18th and 19th centuries as a refreshing drink for social gatherings and fiestas. The name "sangria" comes from the Spanish word for "blood," referring to its typically deep red color.

**Taste**  
Sangria is refreshing and fruity, with the wine providing a smooth base complemented by the sweetness and slight tartness of the mixed fruits. It's perfect for enjoying on a warm summer day.

## Sweets

### Pasteis de nata (Egg Tarts)

Pasteis de nata is literally everywhere in Portugal. These famous custard tarts have a flaky, buttery crust filled with a rich, creamy custard that's caramelized on top, creating a perfect balance of textures and flavors.

**History**  
Originating from the Jerónimos Monastery in the 18th century, these tarts were created by monks who used egg yolks left over from starching their clothes. The recipe was later sold to the nearby Fábrica de Pastéis de Belém, which continues to make the original version to this day. According to local legend, Pastéis de Belém, a bakery next to the Jerónimos Monastery, holds the original recipe for these tasty tarts. It’s the most famous spot in Lisbon to eat pastéis de nata and is an absolute must when you visit. Since 1837, locals and tourists alike have been lining up to snag a box of custard tarts to eat in the café or on the go. As the original, Pastéis de Belém is still an iconic spot in Lisbon to enjoy a delicious custard tart in a charming and lively atmosphere.

Another excellent spot to try these tarts is Manteigaria - Pastéis de Nata Factory. Located in the Time Out Market and other locations around the city, Manteigaria is renowned for its perfectly balanced custard tarts with a crispy, flaky crust. Watching the tarts being made fresh adds to the experience, making it a must-visit. The price of a Pastel de nata is a little more than 1 euro, making it an affordable and delightful treat.

![Egg Tarts](/assets/blog/food-drinks-to-try-in-lisbon-portugal/egg-tarts.jpg)
*Egg Tarts at Pastéis de Nata Factory*

**Taste**  
I found the taste of Pasteis de nata in Portugal a lot sweeter than the ones sold in Chinatown. Some of my Chinese friends even pointed out my photos of Pasteis de nata here and wondered whether they were burned because of the big dark dots. It turns out the dark dots are caramelized sugar. It shows why they are so sweet.

![Making of Egg Tarts](/assets/blog/food-drinks-to-try-in-lisbon-portugal/making-of-egg-tarts.jpg)
*Making of Egg Tarts*


Food and Drinks to Try in Lisbon, Portugal

Here are the ice creams we love the most in the DFW area.
<h2 id="user-content-1-junbi-matcha-richardson-tx">1. Junbi Matcha (Richardson, TX)</h2>
Our favorite go-to place for ice cream is Junbi Matcha in Richardson. Junbi Matcha is a dessert shop specialized in matcha. They offer both matcha boba tea and soft-serve ice cream. We always go there for the soft serve.
I love that the servers always try their best to make a huge soft serve for us using the machine. You can choose from various toppings such as cocoa nibs, boba, coconut flakes, as well as having matcha or cocoa powder dusted on the top.
<img src="/assets/blog/best-ice-cream-in-dallas/junbi-soft-serve.jpg" alt="Matcha Soft Serve at Junbi">
Matcha Soft Serve at Junbi
<h2 id="user-content-2-somisomi-frisco-tx">2. SomiSomi (Frisco, TX)</h2>
Besides Junbi, SomiSomi also offers interesting flavors of ice cream, such as Matcha, Ube, and Black Sesame. You can customize your order with sprinkles and mixed flavors.
Their ice cream is a special Korean dessert known as “Ah-Boong”(아붕), a fish-shaped waffle cone filled with your choice of filling and topped with soft serve.
My honest feedback on SomiSomi's Matcha ice cream: the size is huge, but it is too sweet, overpowering the taste of Matcha. But still, it is a wonderful place to get ice cream.
<img src="/assets/blog/best-ice-cream-in-dallas/somisomi.jpg" alt="Matcha and Ube Soft Serve at SomiSomi">
Matcha and Ube Soft Serve at SomiSomi

Best Ice Cream in Dallas

What you need to know before visiting Barcelona, Spain (2026)


When I travel, I don’t want to buy random clutter. I want gifts that people actually enjoy receiving.

My general rule:

- Unique — something they can’t easily get at home
- Represents the place — tied to local culture, team, landmark, or moment
- Useful — something they’ll actually use
- Lightweight — easy to pack, no luggage regret
- No food — hard to bring across borders and can expire (unless it is coffee beans)

The best souvenirs are the ones that quietly become part of someone’s everyday life.

Here are some great gift ideas that follow these principles:

## Contents

## Enamel Pins

Small, affordable, collectible, and full of personality.

Pins from places, museums, transit systems, national parks, or special events are fun because people can put them on bags, jackets, or hats. Disney pins are especially loved because they also have collector value.

Examples:
- Disney park pins (they are extremely popular and have very high collector value!)
- Olympic event pins
- City landmark pins
- Museum pins

Tiny item, big charm.

My favorite enamel pins are:

- the mask pin that I got from Venice, Italy
- the two pins from the world-famous coffee shops in Bogota, Colombia

They are on my travel backpack, and I love looking at them and reminiscing about the trips.

## Tote Bags

One of the best modern souvenirs.

Everyone can use an extra tote bag—for groceries, gym, travel, beach, books. And some become unexpectedly iconic.

Examples:
- Paris Olympics tote
- Viral Trader Joe's regional tote bags
- Museum totes
- Bookstore totes
- Local café totes

Everyday use = constant reminder of the trip.

My sister-in-law gifted me a tote bag from the Paris Olympics 2024, and I use it EVERY DAY!!! It was from the official Paris Olympics store and the quality is amazing.

I only buy from official stores. This gives special meaning to the gift.

## Hats / Caps With Meaning

Caps work best when they connect to the receiver’s interests.

Examples:
- Los Angeles Dodgers cap for a Shohei Ohtani fan
- Local football club hat
- National park cap
- Surf town hat
- Vintage city logo cap

Wearable souvenirs are underrated. 

I only buy from official stores. This gives special meaning to the gift.

## Socks

One of the most underappreciated gifts.

Easy to pack, inexpensive, and fun when themed with city icons, transit maps, animals, or local jokes.

People always need socks. They wear them every single day.

My favorite socks are the ones that were made in the U.S. and have the words "I ❤️ Meat" on them. It shows my personality and sense of humor. 😅 I love wearing when going to the gym.

![Socks](/assets/blog/best-gift-ideas-to-buy-from-overseas/cover.jpeg)

## Things Only For Espresso Lovers

For coffee lovers, these are the things that I would consider buying from overseas:

- Latte cups (not coffee cups)
- Espresso cups (e.g. [Gaudi style cups](https://gaudibarcelonashop.com/en/26-espresso-coffee-sets))
- Fresh coffee beans, with close roast dates
- Enamel pins from coffee shops

Good shaped latte cups are hard to find. They make a huge difference in making latte art. We visited a world famous coffee shop in Bogota, Colombia, and we loved their latte cups. We begged to buy some from them, but they refused. 😅

We brought back some Gesha beans from Colombia, for a friend who is an espresso lover. He was so excited to receive it.

## What I Avoid

- Heavy glass items
- Bulky decorations
- Generic airport souvenirs
- Anything that says the place name in giant letters unless it’s stylish
- Fragile stuff that creates luggage anxiety

## Final Rule
The best gift is when the person says:

“Oh nice, I’ll actually use this.”

That’s when a souvenir wins.



Best Gift Ideas to Buy From Overseas (That People Actually Use)


In December 2025, we embarked on a 7-day journey to Bogota, Colombia. As a newly minted coffee aficionado, we were eager to dive deep into coffee tasting and learn about the rich Colombian coffee culture. We absolutely loved it, especially our time in the mountains on coffee farms. We’re excited to share our experience with you.

## Contents


## Day 1: Arrival in Bogota. Visited Café Cultor and Café Libertario.

Colombia is famous for its coffee, a fact known by coffee lovers worldwide, yet surprisingly few make the trip to see it where it grows. For us, this trip was all about tasting local varieties and understanding the diverse methods of preparation.

Traveling during Christmas can be challenging since most shops are closed, but we were thrilled and grateful to find **Café Cultor**, a renowned coffee shop, open. The atmosphere was cozy and unhurried.

![Café Cultor](/assets/blog/colombia-coffee-trip-2025/cafe-cultor.jpeg)
*The coffee drinks we got from Café Cultor*

We used to think all coffee tasted more or less the same, but now we can instantly distinguish a single origin from a blend. This morning, one sip of a single origin revealed deep, fruity notes (whereas blends often lean toward chocolate and nuts). It makes perfect sense: in a country that produces such world-class coffee, they naturally showcase their own beans rather than blending them with imports.

(Side note: People often ask about Starbucks. To us, Starbucks is the bottom of the barrel. The beans are mediocre, and the craft is lacking. That’s why they specialize in sugary, flavored drinks—to mask the quality of the coffee with syrups and spices.)

Even my two kids have started to love coffee. We used to insist they drink decaf, but they’ve since "upgraded" themselves to regular beans by sneaking sips of ours. The impact on their developing brains and bodies is... well, hard to measure!

After soaking up some midday sun, my husband and I left the kids at the Airbnb to explore more of the city.

We stumbled upon **Libertario**, a unique shop known for its award-winning beans. While competition-grade beans are only available seasonally, today’s selection was fascinating. It had a distinct sweetness reminiscent of sugarcane.

![Libertario](/assets/blog/colombia-coffee-trip-2025/libertario.jpeg)
*Flat white from Libertario*

Sharing a quiet coffee with my husband was pure bliss 😌. While Bogota’s temperature is similar to Dallas, the high altitude and surrounding mountains make it much more humid and lush—perfect for coffee. Sitting under a large tree with a gentle breeze, coffee in hand—there’s truly nothing more relaxing.

Afterward, we headed back, gathered the kids, and went for a sunset hike.

## Day 2: Tropicalia and a Walking Tour of Bogota

In the morning, the kids weren't in the mood to go out, so Mac and I headed out solo again! This time, we visited Tropicalia, ranked as the top coffee shop in South America. Mac ordered a pour-over, and I had a latte. To be honest, we were both a little disappointed. So far, the shops we’ve visited have leaned heavily into floral notes, but we haven’t found many that highlight the chocolatey, nutty flavors we love. The search continues!

We went back to prepare lunch: simple pan-seared red trout from the supermarket. It was delicious and definitely made it into my "travel cooking" repertoire. My daughter even made chocolate-covered strawberries for dessert—perfection.

In the afternoon, we stopped briefly at a quirky coffee shop called **Arte y Pasion Cafe Presidencial** in Bogota’s old town where the baristas do custom latte art based on your request. Unfortunately, we were short on time and had to head to our tour before we could fully enjoy it.

We had booked a three-hour walking tour to learn about Colombian culture—a must-do for us whenever we travel. A good guide adds so much color and context to a city, making the memories stick. In those three hours, we learned about the history of Colombia, as well as our neighbors, Venezuela and Ecuador.

One interesting story: everyone knows Coca-Cola originally contained cocaine. The Coca plant itself has very low concentrations of the alkaloid; locals traditionally used it as a medicinal tonic from nature. However, once it was discovered that cocaine could be extracted and commercialized for profit, it became a source of significant harm.

Our guide also introduced us to some unique local drinks. The most interesting was **Chicha**, a fermented corn drink. Historically, it involved a rather... "organic" fermentation process (let’s just say it involved saliva 🤢), followed by a month of fermentation. It tastes remarkably like Kombucha—tart, bubbly, and slightly alcoholic.

It’s fascinating how cultures around the world use probiotics to ferment food: yogurt is universal, Korea has Kimchi, Japan has Kombu tea, China has various pickles, and South America has Chicha.

I’ve spent the last year researching bacteria, specifically how processed foods are slowly erasing the beneficial microbes in our systems. I’ll admit I was a little nervous after drinking the Chicha—I hope it plays nice with the gut microbiome I’ve been working so hard to restore and perhaps even adds some healthy diversity!

After six hours of walking, we were ready for a feast. We found an Argentinian steakhouse called **69 Gauchos** in Bogota and went all out. The four of us ordered two large steaks, pork chops, and a suckling pig. A massive amount of meat for less than $100. In Dallas, that would have cost three times as much!

Because our dietary habits have changed, our travel strategy has evolved too: we buy the best ingredients to cook at our Airbnb for most meals, and when we do go out, we only seek out the most exceptional or "classic" spots. Mac jokes that I’ve become incredibly picky—I only want to eat at steakhouses or Michelin-starred restaurants 😅. But we love this approach: no mediocre meals, only the classics!

## Day 3: Morning Rituals at Amor Perfecto

My husband and I started the morning just like we would in Dallas: a workout followed by coffee, just in a different setting.

Today we tried **Amor Perfecto**, another legendary spot.

What struck us first was their espresso machine: it was split into three separate stations based on function, whereas traditional machines are usually a single, massive unit.

![Machines at Amor Perfecto](/assets/blog/colombia-coffee-trip-2025/amor-machines.jpeg)
*The machines at Amor Perfecto*

We also noticed their meticulous process—they never just grab a random cup; every cup is pre-heated before the coffee touches it.

The shop also houses a coffee lab, where we saw people testing how different water qualities affect the final brew.

The baristas in Bogota are incredibly skilled; they can casually pour a perfect swan 🦢 into your latte while carrying on a conversation. 

![Amor Perfecto](/assets/blog/colombia-coffee-trip-2025/amor.jpeg)
*Drinks from Amor Perfecto*

As for the flavor—we finally found it! A nutty blend that has won numerous awards. it reminded us of the "Woolloomooloo" blend from Toby’s Estate in Sydney.

Bogota’s weather is so mild and temperate that my skin has actually improved. The vegetation is incredibly lush; everything is green, and it feels so rejuvenating.

Colombia remains a relatively niche destination for tourists, and almost no one speaks English. In our tour group yesterday, we were the only Americans; everyone else was from South America or Europe. Interestingly, the Canadian government recently issued a travel advisory for Colombia. It makes me wonder about the country’s evolving role on the global stage.

## Day 4: A Deep Dive into Coffee and a Tasting Menu at Incorrecto Cocina

**The Night of No Sleep 😭**

Last night took my impression of Colombia down a few pegs. Do people here ever sleep? From midnight until the early hours, cars were driving by with loudspeakers blasting music at full volume—one after another, for hours on end. I barely slept a wink.

I value my sleep immensely, so this was incredibly frustrating. I spent half the night just lying there, feeling annoyed at the whole country. 😅

It’s a stark reminder of cultural differences. South American countries are so vibrant and "hot-blooded"—I felt the same in Brazil. I can’t imagine people in Japan, for instance, being so indifferent to their neighbors' peace and quiet in the middle of the night.

A bad night’s sleep definitely casts a shadow over the next day.

***

**The Coffee Masterclass ☕️**

My husband booked a coffee experience for us. A professional barista guided us through a tasting, teaching us how to use our palates to identify different tasting notes.

I learned that coffee from different regions of Colombia has entirely different flavor profiles. From now on, I can probably guess the flavor just by looking at the origin. I personally love nutty notes, which typically come from Northern Colombia.

I also realized how incredible our tongues are. Different parts of the tongue—the tip, the middle, the sides, and the back—perceive flavors differently.

During the session, I discovered that I perceive jam, chocolate, peanuts, and almonds at very specific, different locations on my tongue. And it’s different for everyone!

Next time you eat, try to notice where on your tongue the flavor hits first and strongest.

I also learned something new: the specific flavor profile isn’t directly caused by the surrounding vegetation (as I previously thought). It’s actually determined by the climate and elevation.

We also experimented with several brewing methods:
- **Siphon**: A Japanese invention that looks like a chemistry experiment.
- **Chemex**: Uses thick filters that remove most impurities, leaving a very clean cup with almost no aftertaste.
- **AeroPress**: Invented in 2005 by a Stanford lecturer. Our barista said it’s her favorite: it’s portable, durable, and allows you to taste every dimension of the coffee.

We also explored how different processing methods change the flavor:
- **Natural (Sun-dried)**: More complex and "funky."
- **Honey Process**: More pronounced sweetness.
- **Washed**: A different, cleaner clarity.

I curiously asked the barista: How many cups do you drink a day? And at what age do kids here start drinking coffee?

She said people in the industry drink at least two cups a day, often more, and the caffeine has zero effect on their sleep. As for the kids—they start very young. It’s just the culture!

Bogota might not be the most modern or polished city, but the people in the coffee industry are incredibly dedicated and passionate. Coffee isn't just a drink here; it’s their lifeblood.

***

**A Colombian Tasting Menu 🍽️**

As I mentioned before: no mediocre meals. Today, we went for something truly special.

We visited a Colombian restaurant called **Incorrecto Cocina**. Everything is made fresh using local ingredients. We ordered a seven-course tasting menu.

Every single dish was spectacular. My top three favorites were:
- **Pig’s Trotter**: Perfectly soft and crispy.
- **Beef Tongue**: Incredibly flavorful.
- **Sweet Rice Pudding**: A flavor I’ve never experienced before.

The meal was also a huge inspiration for my own cooking. My primary carb sources these days are pumpkin, potatoes, and sweet potatoes—whole, natural foods with a balanced mix of carbs, fiber, and micronutrients.

During this trip, I’ve noticed they use a lot of *Yuca* and *Plantain* as staples, which has given me so many new ideas 💡!

And once again—this entire seven-course tasting menu was less than $50 per person.

## Day 5: (I was sick!)

I was sick the whole day. My nose was running, my eyes were stinging, and my throat was sore. I had a fever of 37.4°C (99.3°F). 

## Day 6: The Great Escape to La Palma y El Tucan

Bogota is a noisy, polluted city. I felt like I was coming down with something; my sneezes felt like mini-earthquakes, and everyone else’s eyes were stinging from the smog.

After three hours of winding mountain roads, we finally reached the deep forest. No Wi-Fi, no motorcycle engines, no loud music. Just the sound of birds—countless varieties of them!

While in Colombia, I heard an interesting perspective: Humans and nature are meant to coexist, but over time, humans have come to believe they *own* nature.

Through my health research this past year, I’ve learned that humans and nature are perfectly intertwined. Trees turn CO2 into oxygen through photosynthesis, and our lungs turn oxygen back into CO2. I knew the science, of course, but I had never felt the weight of that connection until now.

Scientific research increasingly shows that being in nature significantly lowers stress hormones, and certain substances secreted by trees can directly benefit human health. I believe there is still so much more left for us to discover.

We had a great dinner at the farm. All ingredients were fresh and locally sourced. 

![Dinner](/assets/blog/colombia-coffee-trip-2025/meal-at-coffee-farm.jpeg)
*Meal at the farm: plantains, trout and greens from the garden.*

## Day 7: The Paradise of La Palma y El Tucan

Sleeping in a log cabin in the forest was a surreal experience. With no city lights and no urban noise, the darkness was absolute, filled only with the chorus of insects and birds. The four of us shared one room and slept more soundly than we have in years—a full ten hours of deep rest.

Breakfast was prepared by local residents using fresh, homegrown ingredients. Afterward, we embarked on a three-hour hike through the coffee plantation.

Ten years ago, this land was a cattle ranch. A coffee expert recognized the potential of the terrain and climate, bought the farm, and transformed it into a plantation.

![Plantation](/assets/blog/colombia-coffee-trip-2025/coffee-tree.jpeg)
*The plantation at La Palma y El Tucan*

Their farming method is fascinating—it’s not a monoculture. They intersperse coffee trees with bananas, avocados, and countless other plants. This provides shade, aids pollination, and fixes nitrogen in the soil.

Along the way, our guide picked a few bananas for us. The taste was unlike anything you’d find in a supermarket—indescribably better.

![Fresh banana](/assets/blog/colombia-coffee-trip-2025/free-banana.jpeg)
*The fresh picked banana is so much better than the ones in the supermarket.*

We saw the entire journey from bean to brew and learned about various processing techniques. We then had a tasting session to refine our palates. The highlight was tasting an award-winning, extremely rare bean that sells for $300 a bag!

This is, without a doubt, the most beautiful place I have ever been. It felt like a hidden paradise. I could honestly live here forever.

The drive back was another three hours of bumpy, winding roads. As we jolted along, staring out at the emerald green slopes, the happy cows, and the stray dogs, I found myself thinking of my childhood in Beijing. The roads were uneven back then too, and I remember the constant bumping on my bicycle, always wishing for paved asphalt. Eventually, the roads were paved, but the fields vanished, the ponds were filled, and the dragonflies, wildflowers, and simple joys disappeared with them.

In the evening, we had to say goodbye to the most beautiful place I had ever been and fly back to the US.




A 7-Day Coffee Journey in Colombia


We love staying at Airbnbs—and at this point, we almost never book hotels.

There are a few reasons for this. We usually need **at least two bedrooms**, preferably **two bathrooms**. We tend to stay in **one city for a full month**, and most importantly, we **prefer cooking our own food**.

Cooking while traveling isn’t just about saving money. It changes how we live in a place. It forces us to be intentional, creative, and resourceful—using what we have to make clean, healthy meals.

Over time, we’ve built a simple system that works almost anywhere.

## Contents


## What We Bring With Us

Most Airbnbs are minimally stocked, especially when it comes to cooking basics. Instead of relying on random seasonings left behind by previous guests, or rushing to local stores to get them, we bring a small set of essentials (mostly for cooking meat):

### Ingredients
- Salt  
- Black pepper  
- White pepper  
- Cumin  
- Star anise  
- Sichuan pepper  

These fit easily into luggage and instantly make any kitchen usable.

### Utensils

Airbnb kitchens are usually very basic. A lot of utensils are cheap plastic, which are not healthy to cook with. So we bring a few essential tools:

- Stainless steel spatula  
- Stainless steel soup ladle  
- Stainless steel chopsticks  
- Wooden rolling pin (for making noodles, which my family loves)

**Prep tip:**  
When we arrive, we boil all utensils before using them. It’s quick, hygienic, and gives peace of mind.

I also bring my own chopsticks when eating out. I trust the hygiene of my own chopsticks more than the ones provided by restaurants and prevent waste from using disposable chopsticks. This is one of my pet peeves. I know it is a little extreme, but I don't care. 😅


## What We Cook (Based on What the Airbnb Has)

Every Airbnb is different, so we adapt to whatever appliances are available and we can find in the local grocery store.

I use the following categories to describe the macronutrients:

- fats: 🧈
- protein: 🥩
- carbs: 🍚
- fiber: 🥬

### With No Tools
- Avocado 🍚🧈🥬
- Cheese 🥩🧈
- Fruits 🍚🥬

### With Pans
- Scrambled eggs 🥩🧈
- Sunny-side-up eggs 🥩🧈
- Beef slices 🥩🧈
- Steaks 🥩🧈
- Fish fillets 🥩🧈 (eg. salmon, trout, perch, etc.)
- Bacon 🥩🧈
- Vegetables 🥬 (eg. broccoli, carrots, etc.) 

### With Pots
- Pumpkin 🍚🥬
- Boiled eggs 🥩🧈
- Potatoes 🍚🥬

### With a Microwave
- Sweet potatoes 🍚🥬
- Potatoes 🍚🥬
- Steamed eggs 🥩🧈

### With an Oven
- Baked pumpkin 🍚🥬
- Flanken style beef ribs 🥩🧈

### With Amazon Deliveries
For longer stays, we sometimes order one of these appliances to make cooking meat easier:
- Instant Pot  
- Slow cooker  

With these appliances, we can cook almost any kind of meat: beef, pork, chicken, and fish.

## What We Buy Locally

We always prioritize **local, seasonal food**. It’s cheaper, fresher, less processed, and usually much better.

Examples from our travels:
- Fresh fish from **Sydney Fish Market**  
- Lamb and beef in **Australia**  
- Kiwi and tangerines in season  
- Wagyu beef in **Tokyo**

For cooking fat, we usually buy **lard or tallow from cooking bacon and beef** instead of processed oils. After traveling to so many countries, we find using processed plant-based oils is so prevalent that you cannot escape it. You have to be alert and check ingredient labels all the time.

To make sure we have enough fats to cook with, the first thing we buy when we arrive at a new place is fatty meats—bacon or Wagyu beef—so we can render our own fat.

Whenever possible, we avoid packaged meat and buy from local butchers or markets. For example, packaged ground meat in the supermarket often comes with preservatives to make it last longer.

Staying close to supermarkets is an important criteria for us when choosing Airbnbs. We find that it makes it easier to buy fresh ingredients and cook our own meals.


## “Isn’t That a Lot of Work?”

People ask us this all the time.

Honestly? I don’t think so anymore.

To me, cooking at an Airbnb feels like solving a puzzle—figuring out how to make good meals using limited tools in an unfamiliar kitchen. It’s fun. It’s creative. And it makes a place feel like home much faster. In many ways, it feels like a fundamental human skill—something our ancestors did naturally when they foraged, hunted, and fished.

Your first meal might not be great. That’s normal.

But you adjust. You tweak. You learn.

And before long, you’re eating better than you would at most restaurants—while traveling.

We do eat out when we travel. Why miss out on the joy of experiencing local food? But we’re selective about what we put into our bodies. Our bodies are sacred.

We choose great local restaurants—often expensive ones—because we know the people behind them care deeply about food quality and see cooking as a craft. My husband jokes that I’ve become so picky that I only eat out at meat-focused restaurants (steakhouses or BBQ) or Michelin-starred restaurants.🤣 I'm not ashamed at all.

This way of eating out also prevents us from constantly calculating the cost of every meal. We used to eat out **three times a day when traveling**. Now, we may only eat out **once every few days**. By cooking for ourselves, we save a lot, so we don’t worry too much about the cost when we do eat out.

Random street stalls, hole-in-the-wall spots, or fast-food chains for a quick bite carry risks we’re not willing to take. (Well, I almost died from a severe infection after eating street food in Istanbul—but that’s a story for another time.)

Best Ice Cream in Dallas

1. Junbi Matcha (Richardson, TX)

2. SomiSomi (Frisco, TX)

About Me

Grace

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