Food Guide

Dessert – Jacques Genin

Dessert – Jacques Genin Jacques Genin Caramels are Like No Other Caramel We visited Jacques Genin’s stunning boutique in the Marais and indulged in an unforgettable treat. We started with a thick, creamy hot chocolate teapot, six caramels, and pâte de fruits. Jacques Genin is known for his caramels, which redefine the sensory experience of caramel—soft, rich, and pure, they melt in your mouth, leaving a lingering sweetness. The pâte de fruits, with their vibrant, soft-puréed fruit encased in candy form, transcend the term ‘candied jelly’—they’re a symphony of flavors and textures. We savored macadamia nut caramel, ginger caramel, and mango passion fruit caramel, each one a testament to the uncompromising quality of Jacques Genin’s creations. Whenever we are in Paris, this is an absolute must-visit location for a caramel fix and to bring some home. If you find yourself in Paris, don’t—I repeat, don’t—miss Jacques Genin’s caramels! At the very least, try the “nature” and mango passion fruit flavors. And yes, they are worth flying to Paris for. While you’re there, treat yourself to a pastry (or six)! Stories from the Road Every journey has another story waiting to be discovered. Explore more experiences, cultures, wildlife, and people from around the world. EXPLORE ALL STORIES

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Must Try – Ken’s Place Fried Clams

Must Try – Ken’s Place Fried Clams Ken’s Place, on Pine Point Road in Scarborough, Maine, is famous for its fried clams. Ken’s has been serving seafood since 1927 and perfected the fried clam. Shucked, gently breaded, then fried to golden perfection, each batch is fresh. Every mouthful of the delicate clams has the appropriate crunch. The delicate batter preserves the clams’ sweet, briny taste, making them unique. Whether you’re a resident or a tourist, the flavor is “Maine,” a reminder of the frigid Atlantic seas they originated from. Ken’s serves a variety of seafood, but fried clams are the centerpiece. From crunchy fried haddock to overflowing lobster rolls on buttery toasted buns, the menu celebrates New England cuisine. The clams, along with Ken’s wonderfully seasoned fries or tangy coleslaw, have folks coming back generation after generation. Ken’s Fried Clams are a flavor of Maine’s seaside history, proudly served and refined over decades. A must-try if you are in Scarborough, Maine. Stories from the Road Every journey has another story waiting to be discovered. Explore more experiences, cultures, wildlife, and people from around the world. EXPLORE ALL STORIES

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Must Try – Sorbillo Pizza in Napoli, Italia

Must Try – Sorbillo Pizza in Napoli, Italia In Napoli, visit Sorbillo, a famed pizzeria that has served traditional Neapolitan pizza for centuries. The wood-fired oven’s flames dance behind the bar as you enter. The pizza comes with everything you wanted. The crust is thin in the middle, burned around the edges, and covered with leopard spots for a lighter, smokey taste. Rich San Marzano tomatoes, creamy mozzarella di bufala, and aromatic basil leaves are scant but intended additions. The simplicity is deceiving since each mouthful reveals the care, history, and pride behind each component. More than a pizza, it’s a tradition-rich taste of Naples. Stories from the Road Every journey has another story waiting to be discovered. Explore more experiences, cultures, wildlife, and people from around the world. EXPLORE ALL STORIES

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Dessert – Burmese Coco Mochi Cake (Semolina)

Dessert – Burmese Coco Mochi Cake (Semolina) A very random change of plan led us to Burmatown Restaurant in Corte Madera. My husband and I wanted something different and thought to try something different. We had a light dinner, starting with a tea leaf salad and a few appetizers. Feeling satisfied, I said I didn’t want any dessert. But when my husband mentioned wanting to try the Coco Mochi Cake, I encouraged him to go ahead, without any intention of sharing. When the Burmese Coco Mochi Cake arrived, I decided to take a small bite, and wow—what a surprise! The cake was fresh from the oven, piping hot, and absolutely delicious. I wasn’t expecting it to be that good, or that hot! One bite turned into several, and soon enough, my husband insisted that I order another one. He didn’t want to share anymore and kept raving about how good it was. This dessert is similar to the traditional Semolina Cake, though the Semolina Mochi cakes I’ve had in the past were often chewy and dense. What I loved about this one was how light it was—nothing like a typical mochi. Stories from the Road Every journey has another story waiting to be discovered. Explore more experiences, cultures, wildlife, and people from around the world. EXPLORE ALL STORIES

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Good Value – Gao Vietnamese Food

Good Value – Gao Vietnamese Food Gao Vietnamese Restaurant in San Francisco is a neighborhood favorite serving real Vietnamese food at a great price. The restaurant serves a wide range of traditional Vietnamese meals that are both filling and inexpensive, from hot bowls of pho to freshly made spring rolls. With care, each meal is made with fresh, high-quality products that bring out the best in Vietnamese food. Gao is a great place to get authentic, tasty food because the rich broths, soft meats, and crisp veggies make every dish taste great. Gao is a good value restaurant. It has big amounts without the high prices that are common in the city. The place is charming, and its casual, friendly vibe makes it great for a quick lunch or a casual dinner with friends. Gao is the best place to get tasty, high-quality Vietnamese food without spending a lot of money, whether you live in San Francisco or are just visiting. Stories from the Road Every journey has another story waiting to be discovered. Explore more experiences, cultures, wildlife, and people from around the world. EXPLORE ALL STORIES

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Flavors of Taipei: Taiwan’s Vibrant Street Food Scene

Flavors of Taipei: Taiwan’s Vibrant Street Food Scene Taipei, Taiwan, is a city where the essence of its culture comes alive in the bustling night markets, where the air is filled with the irresistible aromas of sizzling meats, fresh herbs, and a blend of spices. As the sun sets, famous markets like Shilin and Raohe spring into action, their neon lights illuminating a lively atmosphere as vendors expertly craft traditional dishes. The clamor of customers and the sizzle of hot grills create a sensory experience that is impossible to resist. Oyster omelets, crispy stinky tofu, and delicate soup dumplings are just a few of the iconic dishes that have come to define Taiwanese street food. The bold flavors of stinky tofu—rich and savory despite its pungent aroma—pair perfectly with the sweetness of bubble tea, a drink that has become a global favorite but remains a local treasure. Beyond the food, Taipei’s street markets offer a glimpse into the city’s soul. Street food is more than a meal—it is a communal experience where people gather to share both food and stories. From the comforting baozi, or steamed pork buns, to the crispy, peppery Hu Jiao Bing, every dish tells a story of tradition and innovation. Sweet treats like pineapple cakes and peanut ice cream rolls provide the perfect ending to a savory feast. The variety and depth of Taipei’s street food reflect a city that honors its heritage while embracing modern influences, making every bite not just a taste of Taiwan but a deeper connection to its culture and community. Stories from the Road Every journey has another story waiting to be discovered. Explore more experiences, cultures, wildlife, and people from around the world. EXPLORE ALL STORIES

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A Taste of Tradition: Kyoto’s Best Street Food Finds

A Taste of Tradition: Kyoto’s Best Street Food Finds Kyoto’s street food is simple yet deeply connected to the city’s culture. Even the smallest bite feels like a reflection of centuries of culinary refinement, where flavors are celebrated and every dish carries a story. Wandering the streets of Kyoto, the air is filled with the irresistible aroma of sizzling yakitori, grilled seafood, and sweet mochi. You can find takoyaki—golden balls of batter filled with pieces of octopus. Topped with savory okonomiyaki sauce, Japanese mayo, and a sprinkle of bonito flakes that wave in the heat, they are a mouthful of warmth and flavor, the soft octopus contrasting the crispy batter. Try to spot another stall selling yatsuhashi, Kyoto’s famous sweet made from rice flour, sugar, and cinnamon, served warm and delicately chewy. Further down these narrow streets, a cart draws you to its smoky scent—yaki imo, roasted sweet potatoes. Its golden, fresh, soft, and sweet—the perfect snack to enjoy while strolling past rows of wooden machiya houses that seem to transport you back in time. Make your way through the bustling crowds, you’ll find warm taiyaki shaped like fish, filled with sweet custard, to the charcoal-grilled senbei rice crackers that crackle with every bite. Kyoto’s street food isn’t just about eating—it’s about experiencing the soul of the city, where every corner offers something to surprise and delight your senses. Stories from the Road Every journey has another story waiting to be discovered. Explore more experiences, cultures, wildlife, and people from around the world. EXPLORE ALL STORIES

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Bangkok Street Eats: A Food Lover’s Paradise

Bangkok Street Eats: A Food Lover’s Paradise Bangkok is a city that never seems to sleep, and its street food is a testament to the buzzing energy that flows through every corner of its streets. From the bustling night markets to the food stalls that line up along busy roads, Bangkok’s street food scene is an adventure in itself. The moment you step into the city, the fragrant mix of spices, sizzling meats, and bubbling broth fills the air, drawing you in with an irresistible allure. Explore the vibrant area of Yaowarat, renowned for its mouthwatering array of street food and authentic Chinese cuisine. From savory dim-sum and succulent roast duck to sweet treats like mango sticky rice. Try the classic—pad thai! Watching the vendor expertly toss rice noodles in a scorching hot wok, blending them with tamarind sauce, shrimp, eggs, and tofu, is a performance. It’s then topped with crunchy peanuts and a dash of lime, and you’re handed a plate of something familiar yet unlike any pad thai you’ve ever tasted before. The balance of sweet, salty, and tangy flavors is simply perfect. A few steps away, the smoke the other stall lures you in. Skewers of marinated pork are slowly grilling over charcoal, the meat caramelizing in its sweet and savory marinade. The charred edges give it a smoky richness, while the meat remains juicy and tender. It’s served with sticky rice, the perfect on-the-go snack as you continue exploring. You can’t help but be drawn to the sound of bubbling oil at a cart selling khanom krok—small, coconut milk pancakes. These bite-sized treats are crispy on the outside but warm and soft on the inside, with a creamy coconut flavor that’s delicately sweet, melting in your mouth with every bite. They’re a perfect contrast to the spicy and savory snacks you’ve been devouring. Of course, no Bangkok street food experience is complete without a bowl of som tam—green papaya salad. Prepared fresh before your eyes, the papaya is shredded and tossed with lime juice, fish sauce, chili, garlic, tomatoes, and peanuts. I ordered this with crab and they asked me how spicy you want it. I said Thai spicy! Boy that was hot; smoke was coming out of my nose and ears! It was so good! As the night deepens, the streets remain alive with the clinking of pans and the chatter of food lovers. Every corner has something new—grilled bananas, mango sticky rice, satay, and freshly squeezed fruit juices. Bangkok’s street food reflects the city itself—vibrant, bold, and full of surprises. It’s more than just food; it’s an essential part of the city’s heartbeat, offering a taste of Thailand’s culinary soul with every dish.     Stories from the Road Every journey has another story waiting to be discovered. Explore more experiences, cultures, wildlife, and people from around the world. EXPLORE ALL STORIES

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Tokyo Bites: Exploring the Best Street Food in the City

Tokyo Bites: Exploring the Best Street Food in the City Tokyo’s streets are a kaleidoscope of sights, sounds, and smells, and nowhere is this more evident than in its bustling street food scene. As you navigate through the narrow alleys and neon-lit districts, every corner is packed with food stalls offering an incredible variety of treats that speak to the city’s rich culinary diversity. From skewers of grilled meat and fish to sweet confections that melt in your mouth, Tokyo’s street food feels like an adventure waiting to happen with each bite. One of the most iconic street food snacks you’ll find is yakitori, skewers of grilled chicken, seasoned to perfection with salt or a soy-based sauce, and cooked over a charcoal grill. The smoky flavor, combined with the tenderness of the meat, makes it a must-try snack. And then, of course, there’s okonomiyaki, a savory pancake loaded with cabbage, pork, and seafood, topped with a tangy sauce and a sprinkle of bonito flakes that dance from the heat. It’s one of the most iconic street foods of Tokyo, blending flavors and textures that make it both filling and satisfying. No exploration of Tokyo’s street food is complete without a visit to Tsukiji Market, the legendary seafood hub that draws both tourists and locals alike. Grab a bowl of uni (sea urchin) or a sushi roll while walking through the vibrant market is an experience of pure joy. The freshness of the seafood is unparalleled, with tuna belly (toro) practically melting in your mouth and grilled scallops still hot from the coals. As you leave the market and continue your culinary journey through the streets, you’ll find yourself craving more—whether it’s a steaming bowl of ramen from a tiny stand or the delicate sweetness of mochi dusted with kinako (roasted soybean flour). Tokyo’s street food is an endless discovery of flavor, a reflection of the city’s blend of tradition, innovation, and an insatiable love for good food.  Stories from the Road Every journey has another story waiting to be discovered. Explore more experiences, cultures, wildlife, and people from around the world. EXPLORE ALL STORIES

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Cheap Eats – Saigon Sandwich

Cheap Eats – Saigon Sandwich We’ve been coming here for over 25 years, and this cash-only spot truly serves the best banh mi in San Francisco! The short menu features banh mi with various types of meat like roast pork, chicken, meatballs, special combinations, and tofu, all served on a French baguette spread with mayo and their signature house sauce. Each sandwich is garnished with fresh cilantro, chopped jalapeños, and pickled carrots and onions. If you’re not eating the sandwich right away, you can ask them to separate the garnish to keep it from getting soggy. And do not overlook the Vietnamese coffee—it is so robust and flavorful that it will provide you with an energy boost for days. Saigon Sandwich 560 Larkin Street, San Francisco, 94102 Stories from the Road Every journey has another story waiting to be discovered. Explore more experiences, cultures, wildlife, and people from around the world. EXPLORE ALL STORIES

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