Latest news with #culinaryadventure
Forbes
4 days ago
- Business
- Forbes
San Francisco's Pier 39 Welcomes Newest Waterfront Restaurant, FiRE + iCE
Hoison Pork Pier 39—one of San Francisco's most iconic and tourist-friendly destinations—has just welcomed its newest addition to the waterfront dining scene: FiRE + iCE. The San Francisco location marks the brand's fourth outpost, joining established restaurants in Boston, Anaheim, and South Lake Tahoe. Founded on the idea that food should be both fun and inclusive, FiRE + iCE is a unique a choose-your-own-culinary-adventure where diners can build meals that reflect their tastes, dietary preferences, and level of adventurousness. Diners get to customize each plate from an endless selection of ingredients before handing it off to a skilled grill master who brings their vision to life. How does it work? You grab a bowl; fill it with your choice of ingredients which range from seafood and meats to fresh vegetables and noodles; choose from a large selection of sauces; and have the grill master cook it all up. Shrimp stir fry Now officially open, the interactive restaurant invites guests to craft their own culinary creations in a lively, open-kitchen setting with stunning bay views that include Alcatraz and the Golden Gate Bridge as the backdrop. 'Bringing FiRE + iCE to San Francisco has been a dream come true,' said owner Kacee Colter. 'This city's diverse culture and love for innovative dining make it the perfect backdrop for our unique concept.' We chatted with Colter on this exciting new opening, what first-time diner can expect from the experience and more. Here's what she had to say. What inspired the brand to bring FiRE + iCE to San Francisco, and why was Pier 39 the ideal location for your fourth restaurant? The FiRE + iCE model thrives in tourist markets, so when PIER 39 approached us about opening a location, we were thrilled about the opportunity. PIER 39 is one of the most iconic and heavily visited tourist destinations in the country, so we knew it would be the perfect place for us to expand. What truly sealed the deal was seeing the space in person. When we walked in, we were completely blown away by the panoramic waterfront views. Ribbon cutting at Pier 39 Does this location stand out from the others in any unique ways? The panoramic waterfront views make this location stand out from the others. Being right on the San Francisco Bay offers an atmosphere you can't replicate elsewhere. It is such an iconic part of the city's identity, both for locals and tourists, so having a presence right on the water, I think, really amplifies the experience. With so many customizable options, how does FiRE + iCE ensure that guests with dietary restrictions — from vegan to gluten-free — still get the whole interactive and indulgent experience? We want each guest to enjoy the whole interactive and indulgent experience FiRE + iCE has to offer, so we take dietary restrictions very seriously. If someone has a food allergy or specific dietary restriction, it's important that they inform their server. We offer a variety of vegan and gluten-free items here at FiRE + iCE San Francisco. For our gluten-free guests, we have a variety of raw vegetables and unseasoned proteins that are gluten-free. Plus, we even have specific gluten-free sauces! Additional gluten-free options include rice noodles and steamed white rice. For our vegan and vegetarian guests, in addition to our diverse selection of fresh vegetables, we offer fruits, grains, and vegetarian proteins like tofu, ensuring there's an option for everyone. The grill After guests with allergies and/or dietary restrictions make their selections, their meal will be prepared separately in our kitchen following all procedures and best practices to avoid cross-contamination. What can first-time diners expect from the create-your-own-meal concept, and how does it differ from traditional buffet or grill restaurants? For those visiting us for the first time, it may be overwhelming to see the endless array of possible combinations, so don't be afraid to play it safe your first or second time and then get creative and start experimenting. While our guests have the freedom to explore and try new things, we do have a recipes page on our website to help guide selections. Our variety of cuisine and all-you-can-eat aspect set us apart from other buffets or grill restaurants. Guests can enjoy a stir-fry as their first dish and then create a pasta dish or tacos after. With views of the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island, how did the design of this location reflect both the brand and the spirit of San Francisco's waterfront? The FiRE + iCE brand is very vibrant and playful, which is reflected in the bright red and blue tones throughout the restaurant. The grill is also an integral, central part of our dining experience, but with the fantastic views this location offers, we wanted to ensure each had their moment to shine. Assembly line How do you see FiRE + iCE contributing to the evolving culinary identity of Fisherman's Wharf, especially for locals who may not often dine in this tourist-heavy area? What makes FiRE + iCE so special is that there's something for everyone. Fisherman's Wharf's culinary scene is primarily seafood, so we wanted to make sure this location has a variety of fresh seafood options like salmon, clams, scallops, mussels, etc. However, not everyone dining in this area enjoys seafood, so having a restaurant with options for every type of palate is an essential part of attracting both locals and tourists. That is what makes us a great spot for group dining — whether it's a tour group or corporate event, even the pickiest of eaters in the group will leave feeling happy and full.
Zawya
30-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Zawya
Summer Restaurant Week returns this DSS with over 65 exclusive dining deals across Dubai
Taking place from 4 to 13 July during Dubai Summer Surprises 2025, more than 65 of the city's most popular restaurants will serve gourmet gastronomy, signature dishes, and exclusive set menus starting from just AED 95 The ten-day-long dining event offers the perfect chance to gather with friends, treat the family, or try something new - all while enjoying a valued-packed summer well spent From neighbourhood favourites to renowned international spots, the line-up spans Emirati, Indian, Italian, Japanese, French, Mexican, Peruvian, and more Dubai, United Arab Emirates: One of the most anticipated dining events of Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS) 2025 makes its eagerly awaited return this July, inviting everyone across the city to embark on an irresistible culinary adventure and experience some of Dubai's best-loved restaurants at exceptional value. Summer Restaurant Week runs from 4 to 13 July, bringing friends, families, couples, and colleagues the chance to savour signature dishes and exclusive set menus at more than 65 of the city's top dining destinations, with two-course lunches priced at AED 95 and three-course dinners at AED 150. Organised by Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE) as part of this year's action-packed DSS programme of thousands of offers and things to do in Dubai, the promotion offers gastronomic gourmet at great value across an exceptional selection of casual eateries, homegrown concepts, and internationally acclaimed restaurants. Residents and visitors alike have the perfect chance to gather with friends and families to celebrate the city's diverse and dynamic dining scene - whether discovering new spots or returning to familiar favourites. Bookings are open now, exclusively through restaurant discovery and booking platform OpenTable. From Emirati comfort food to modern Asian plates, the line-up reflects the diversity that defines dining in Dubai. Diners can indulge in a tapestry of flavours from around the world, crafted by renowned chefs who have made their mark on the culinary world - from Middle Eastern and European to Indian, Asian, and so much more. Restaurants participating in this year's edition include Al Fanar Seafood Restaurant and Arabian Tea House, both known for their traditional local flavours, alongside Lebanese favourite Leila Restaurant and grill house Kabab Al Bastakiah. Indian highlights include Kinara by Vikas Khanna, MAUSAM, and newly opened Khadak, each offering distinct takes on spice and regional flavour. Fans of pan-Asian cooking will find plenty to explore at The Noodle House, Barfly by Buddha Bar, Harumannis, Yum Noodle Bar, and Sumibiya Korean BBQ, while Mediterranean options include casual Greek dining at OIA and Neapolitan pizzas at Naughty Pizza, Italian comfort food at Cucina, and Mediterranean seafood served by the water at Seagrill Bistro. Diners in search of European bistro charm can head to Couqley or Bistro des Arts, two long-time favourites known for simple, well-executed French dishes in inviting surroundings. This year's line-up also includes Peruvian-Japanese fusion at Nazcaa, and Latin American plates with a party atmosphere at MAMA ZONIA. Each participating venue offers a curated menu built around its most popular dishes, giving guests the chance to enjoy quality dining at a fraction of the usual price. With more than 30 percent in savings across lunch and dinner experiences, Summer Restaurant Week is the perfect excuse to eat out, try something new, and celebrate the city's thriving food culture, whether for a midweek lunch, relaxed family meal, or dinner with friends. Reservations for this exclusive, limited-time opportunity are subject to availability. Diners are encouraged to not miss their chance to explore the finest gastronomy at unbeatable prices, and discover and book their tables today through the OpenTable website and app. Dubai Summer Surprises 2025 is supported by Key Sponsor Commercial Bank of Dubai and Strategic Partners which include: Al Futtaim Malls (Dubai Festival City Mall & Festival Plaza), Al Zarooni Group (Mercato Shopping Mall), AW Rostamani Group, DHAM (Al Seef, Bluewaters, Ibn Battuta Mall, Nakheel Mall, and The Outlet Village), Emirates Airline, ENOC, e&, Majid Al Futtaim (City Centre Deira, City Centre Mirdif, Mall of the Emirates), Merex Investment (City Walk and The Beach, JBR), and talabat. About Dubai Summer Surprises 2025: Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS) 2025 takes over the city for its 28th edition from 27 June to 31 August, showcasing the summer as one of the best value times of the year to experience Dubai. Organised by Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), the most value-packed edition of DSS this year promises a summer well spent for everyone with thousands of offers and things to do for 66 non-stop days. For the first time ever in DSS history, the city's retail sector is anchored around three distinct shopping seasons - Summer Holiday Offers from 27 June to 17 July, Great Dubai Summer Sale from 18 July to 10 August, and Back to School from 11 to 31 August. Each period unlocks exclusive new retail promotions, spectacular mall activations, and life-changing raffles, alongside world-class gastronomy, hospitality, indoor family fun, and a packed events calendar. Bringing together a mix of not-to-be-missed, brand-new experiences and returning festival favourites for every preference and price point, there are endless reasons to stay, play, shop, and celebrate an exciting summer season together. DSS 2025 truly delivers unforgettable moments for everyone, whether families, friends, couples, residents, or visitors. About Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment: Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), an agency of Dubai's Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), is responsible for developing Dubai's retail and festival sectors and supporting the positioning of Dubai as a world-class tourism destination with year-round family entertainment, shopping and events. About OpenTable: OpenTable, a global leader in restaurant tech and part of Booking Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ:BKNG), helps more than 60,000 restaurants worldwide fill 1.8 billion seats a year. OpenTable's world-class technology empowers restaurants to focus on what matters most – their team, their guests, and their bottom line – while enabling diners to discover and book the perfect restaurant for every occasion.
BBC News
09-06-2025
- Entertainment
- BBC News
From Tabasco sauce to Taiwanese Tex-Mex: Felicity Cloake's American odyssey
For her new book, Peach Street to Lobster Lane, British food writer Felicity Cloake cycles across the US from coast to coast in search of a definition for its national cuisine. Gordon Ramsay famously credits his success in the US to Americans knowing nothing about good food. Felicity Cloake begs to differ. In her new book, Peach Street to Lobster Lane, the award-winning British food writer sets out to challenge the stereotype of American food as deep-fried and cultureless. "On this trip, I'm determined to find this unicorn, cover it with ketchup and pickles and have it for lunch," she writes. Over the course of 10 weeks and several thousand kilometres, she cycles coast to coast across the US, discovering independent restaurants, fusion cuisine and an attitude towards food she's seen nowhere else in the world. Her food-filled obsession takes her from San Francisco's most refined sourdough to the home of the hamburger in Columbus, Ohio. Along the way, she explores the source of Tabasco on Avery Island and feasts on crawfish on an accidental stop in Houston. Her mission? To discover what, if anything, ties American cuisine together and to celebrate the creativity, history and heart she finds everywhere she goes. We caught up with Cloake to talk about the good, the greasy and the gloriously surprising food that fuelled her adventures. Why did you decide to write a book about American food?I don't think my publisher will mind me saying that they were a bit reluctant, because the theme is a bit tricky. If you don't already love America and its cuisine, it's difficult to see beyond the top-line stereotypes of McDonalds, KFC, ridiculous eating competitions and too much on the plate. It doesn't sound very attractive. But I was thinking about the amazing Mexican food and all the different immigrant cuisines there. There's much more of a sense of possibility, fun and flexibility when it comes to cooking in America. They don't feel so hide-bound to tradition for a lot of things as we do in Europe. And that was so exciting to me; uncovering this really playful attitude to food that manifests in potentially fun but unhealthy things like, you know, a cheeseburger that has doughnuts instead of a bun. There is some fantastic food and fantastic produce in the US, but it just gets sort of swept under the carpet because we only see this cartoonish version. For me, there's always been a glamour about America, which I find hard to shake. It's a sense of "wow, everything's like it is in the movies". And it is! You spent 10 weeks cycling across the US in search of the best food. Why did you decide to travel by bike? I thought: I've cycled in Italy, I've cycled in France. How different can it be? And then when I got closer to the trip, I was more concerned. Everyone I knew tried to put me off. But I actually found that it was a great place to cycle. I did end up riding down a six-lane freeway in LA, but there are lots of little roads too. It's a bit like France in that way; because the country is so vast, the smaller roads tend to be quite quiet. It gave me access to a side of America that I hadn't seen before because I'd always been in a car, passing through at speed. Did you discover a culinary style that is distinctly American? Yes! I think it centres around the idea of playfulness and a lack of concern for tradition and the "right" way of doing things. That's what annoys so many people from the more established and conservative food cultures about American food; that's why they are so dismissive. It's a fun place to eat and they've got some great produce. They don't overcomplicate it either. I had some brilliant farm-to-table food in New England in particular. When American food is good, it's up there with the world's best. People need to look beyond the American businesses that are on their local high streets to find real American cuisine. It's a very fun place to eat. What was your favourite meal? I find mashups of unexpected food cultures really exciting. My best meal was at a restaurant in San Antonio where a Taiwanese American chef was making the Tex-Mex food she had grown up with, under Taiwanese influences. So it was things like an orange chicken fried steak and mochi hush puppies. I found that exciting because it's not something that you would ever find somewhere else. Tex-Mex is seen as a mash up in itself, and to add a third culture to the mix just feels mind blowing. There was so much creativity and fun, but it was also delicious. It was clever cooking but it was light-hearted as well, and I love that. What surprised you most about the trip? America is expensive! Ten years ago, travelling in America was very cheap. Food was cheap, motels were cheap. But that is no longer the case – and it was a bit of a shock to the system. I bought a grapefruit in Ohio that cost $2.99 – it would have cost 60p in the UK, and it had surely been grown in Florida. So that was extraordinary. Then the whole tipping culture thing… it's just a really expensive place to struck you most about the differences between English and American food culture?It was difficult getting food that wasn't processed in some way. It's not that people aren't health conscious, it's more that the stuff being marketed as health food is at odds with what I would regard as healthy food. It's very processed, it's packaged. I found it hard to find an unprocessed fruit or vegetable. More like this:• The truth about the US' most iconic food• Is the future of French cheese at stake?• Tucson: The US's ancient, underrated culinary capital Then the throwaway nature of everything really bothered me. It's hard to recycle there. And I don't get the same enjoyment from eating from a plastic plate. There are a few issues surrounding food that made me proud of how much British food has changed. What was your biggest learning from the trip? I hadn't appreciated that all stereotypes of American food in my mind – the hotdogs, burgers and ice cream sundaes – were all imports as well. I had thought about Mexican food and Korean food, and then the rest was American food. But I realised that no; all the food bar Native American food heritage – which is being reclaimed these days – all of it is an import. I would love to go to the Lakes region and learn more about that food culture. There's popcorn, jerky and wild rice, although that's more of an ingredient than a dish. Overall, it's a much more exciting cuisine than I imagined it would be. As different waves of people come in and mix, there's more to see and try. It's evolving and changing – it feels like boundless possibility. Is there anything you'd do differently if you had the chance to do it again?I do slightly regret that I didn't eat any really trashy fast food that we don't get here yet. There is a lot more that I could have found. Another odd regret is that I didn't eat more. I was obsessed with the idea that I was going to die if I didn't eat enough vegetables. I ate a lot of salads out of the bag. I think I might have been a bit overanxious with that, looking back. And if it wasn't for my dog, I would have gone for longer. I would have liked to have spent more time in Texas, for sure. There's so much more to explore. Peach Street to Lobster Lane: Coast to Coast in Search of American Cuisine by Felicity Cloake, is published by Mudlark and is released on 5 June 2025. -- For more Travel stories from the BBC, follow us on Facebook, X and Instagram.
The Independent
04-06-2025
- Lifestyle
- The Independent
Take a culinary tour of the Costa Dorada: from traditional eats to haute cuisine
Stretching along the Mediterranean, the Costa Dorada (locally known as Costa Daurada) is not only beautiful but has a reputation for seriously delicious cuisine. Thanks to its proximity to the water, seafood is a highlight. But its mountainous inland terrain also offers up a wide variety of meat and vegetables, as well as a wonderful terroir for a wealth of wine varieties. What's more, with Jet2holidays flying to the Costa Dorada from 12 UK airports and a range of two to five-star accommodation, it's easy to plan your next culinary adventure. Jet2holidays is always giving you more, to help make planning and booking as smooth as possible. That goes for the PayPal Pay in 3 interest-free payments** option, as well as the 22kg baggage and 10kg hand luggage, and return transfers† that are included. Look out for Free Child Places***, and infants under two go free‡. From great eateries and foodie experiences to the best local dishes to try, here's what you can look forward to on your gastronomic travels… Delicious traditional dishes Begin your travels with a journey around some of the region's most delicious traditional dishes. Like xató; originating from Tarragona, it's made with escarole (similar to an endive), tomato and salt cod or tuna, and served with a sauce made from almonds and ñoras (dried peppers).Another popular fish-based dish is suquet de peix, a tasty stew which features a variety of seafood and vegetables. Meanwhile, many menus also offer the likes of arròs caldós, a soupy rice dish, rossejat, a seafood pasta dish, and mar i muntanya, which combines seafood and meat, reflecting the region's 'sea and mountain' cuisine. You'll find all these, and more, in local restaurants in some of the region's most charming locations, all around Costa Dorada, or look out for them on the menu at one of the restaurant options at your Jet2holidays hotel. Fabulous foodie experiences Time your visit for a calçotada, a festive Catalan gathering held between November and April, where people celebrate the harvest of calçots (a type of large, sweet onion). It's usually served grilled with romesco, sauce, accompanied by meat and wine. For a truly authentic experience, head to Valls, the birthplace of the tradition. Olive oil is also a revered ingredient in the Costa Dorada; going back to ancient times, olive cultivation is a key part of the region's Mediterranean heritage. Centres, museums and historical mills offer tours combined with tastings, walks among olive groves and gastronomic menus with lashings of olive oil. Head to the Olive Oil Interpretation Centre in Vandellòs, located in an old olive mill, where you'll observe everything about the production process, from harvesting to bottling. Or follow the Priorat olive oil route, which offers 26 different experiences aimed at discovering and tasting the finest extra virgin oil. There's even an olive oil cycling route, which meanders through the region of Baix Camp, just 20 minutes from Tarragona. It produces one of Catalonia's most famous olive oils under the DOP Siurana. Finally, don't miss a trip to the nearby village of Riudecanyes, dotted with many olive trees that are over 100 years old. The world of wine (and vermouth) The Costa Dorada promotes enogastronomy, the art of pairing wine with food, so you'll always have something delicious to drink alongside your meal. The whole area, particularly the DOQ (Denominació d'Origen Qualificada) Priorat region, is known for great wine, especially robust reds. But you'll also find fabulous red, white and rosé wines from the Designations of Origin Montsant, Tarragona, Conca de Barberà, and Penedès. Embark on a wine trail through Priorat, to discover grape varieties such as Carignan, Grenache and Grenache blanc. Take tours through vineyards, learn about the wine-making process and, most importantly, enjoy tastings. Close to Priorat area, Conca de Barberà, produces light red and fruity rosés; while closer to the coast, Penedés is famous for its sparkling Cava. Moreover, the Costa Dorada – particularly the elegant city of Reus, birthplace of legendary architect Antoni Gaudí – is also known for vermouth, a sweet, aromatic fortified wine flavoured with botanicals, herbs and spices. Find out more at the city's Vermouth Museum, dedicated to the culture of this unique drink with a collection of over 6,500 items related to it. Then set out on the Reus Vermouth Route. This features dozens of establishments which either serve it or are connected to its history, including its incredible modernist architecture. Eateries for everyone The Costa Dorada brims with producers and professionals who pride themselves on showcasing the region's gastronomy. Many also make sure they only offer local products – known as the 'Slow food kilometre zero' initiative. You'll also find plenty of fantastic restaurants which serve locally-sourced dishes which prioritise local and organic farming and use seasonal ingredients. This way, you're connected to tradition and authenticity by what's on your plate. If you're looking for even more elevated cuisine, head to Cambrils – known as the gastronomic capital of the Costa Dorada, with two Michelin-starred restaurants alone. Or you could venture to Salou or Cornudella de Montsant for some out-of-this-world fine dining. At your Jet2holidays hotel, make sure you delve into the diverse cuisines and speciality dishes on offer, as well as the ever-changing live chef stations and in-house pop-ups. And if you're planning to take a taste of the Costa Dorada back home, make sure you visit local producers for excellent sweets, jams, rice, vinegar, hazelnuts and more. There's also a wealth of great places for families to eat out. Head to Salou for fab ice cream parlours, ideal for hot, sunny days, or to Cambrils for buffet-style eateries, where every family member can choose exactly what they want. Reus has a selection of brilliant local markets, such as the Mercat Central and the Mercat del Carrilet, where you can purchase traditional produce, from meats and cheeses to delicious bread, to take to the beach for the perfect picnic. With Jet2holidays, you can book your trip to the Costa Dorada with lots of package perks thrown into make getting away even easier. From a low £60 per person deposit*, PayPal Pay in 3 interest-free payments** , 22kg baggage and 10kg hand luggage per person to return transfers†, it's all included. Families can make the most of Free Child Places***, while infants under two go free‡. And with flights included and the choice of two to five-star hotels, Jet2holidays is always giving you more. For more Costa Dorada travel inspiration, and to find and book your ultimate holiday, visit Jet2holidays. Plus, right now, myJet2 members can save £100 per person§ in The Big Jet2 Sale (correct at original publish date). *On bookings made ten weeks or more before departure. Full payment required by balance due date. **Spread the cost over three interest-free payments. Available when booked online, for holidays under £2,000, departing within ten weeks. ***One free child place per two paying passengers. Subject to availability. T&Cs apply, please see for further details. †Unless otherwisestated. ‡Applicable for all infants under the age of two years on the date of return. Infants are not entitled to a flight seat (they must be seated with a parent or guardian) or a 22kg baggage allowance. §£100 per person off holidays for myJet2 members departing until 15 November 2026. myJet2 members will need to be logged into their account at the time of booking for the discount to automatically apply. Book online, via our app, through our call centre or with your travel agent. Please note the discount is not applied to children travelling on a free child place. Terms and conditions apply, please see for details.
