Hidden inside Shanghai’s Expo Cultural Park, Yuan Gu Yun Jing serves modern Chinese cuisine inspired by the 24 solar terms — a seasonal rhythm expressed through design, detail, and restraint. One of my most memorable meals in China, and perhaps anywhere this year.
Restaurants
13 September 2025
Sam’s Burgers in San Francisco
Sam’s Burgers has been a North Beach landmark since 1966, a no-frills late-night counter where Anthony Bourdain once ate—and where his “Bourdain Special” still lives on the menu. The patties may now come from Kirkland, but the burgers remain delicious, and the vibe is pure San Francisco.
9 September 2025
Drinking Tea in China’s Oldest Teahouse
There are certain places in Tongli where time folds in on itself, and Nanyuan Teahouse is one of them. Built in 1898 and still pouring tea more than a century later, it sits at the meeting of two canals, shaded…
24 November 2024
Lunch at Blue Barn Provisions in Camino
Discover Blue Barn in Camino, CA, a charming eatery nestled in the heart of Apple Hill. With its dog-friendly patio, seasonal farm-to-table menu, and live music, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy locally sourced dishes like the hearty Kitchen Sink or the indulgent Apple Pie French Toast. Whether you're exploring El Dorado’s wineries or looking for a relaxed brunch, Blue Barn offers a welcoming retreat from the hustle of Apple Hill.
Nestled in the heart of Apple Hill, The Forester in Camino offers an unforgettable dining experience with authentic German comfort food and heartfelt hospitality. From the golden crisp Hendl Schnitzel to the rich homemade soup, every dish is a tribute to old-world traditions. With its cosy, rustic ambiance and warm, genuine service, The Forester is more than a meal - it's a destination worth planning a trip around.
I found myself at Obsidian Grill, part of the McKenzie General Store, more than once during our stay in the McKenzie River area, and for good reason. Tucked away in the small, laid-back town of McKenzie Bridge, this little spot…
A beloved Bay Area tradition: the pancake hike to Mount Tam’s West Point Inn. Follow my trail tips, breakfast details, and first-hand experience from fog to sunshine to syrup-drenched reward.
11 April 2024
Lunch at Leoda’s Kitchen & Pie Shop
Just about everyone you talk to on Maui will tell you that Leoda’s Kitchen & Pie Shop is a must visit – and they’re right. The head chef here is kind of a big deal. Sheldon Simeon is not only…
11 March 2024
Rossotti’s Alpine Inn in Portola Valley
I recently had the pleasure of dining at Rosotti’s Alpine Inn, nestled amidst the serene beauty of Portola Valley. From the moment I stepped through the doors, I knew I was in for a treat. Rosotti’s Alpine Inn boasts a…
Dining at Branja is a memorable experience well before the food even hits the table. The restaurant is located in an industrial looking building, in a neighbourhood you wouldn’t think to look twice at. Despite its demure exterior, Branja is…












