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There’s no better way of learning more about other cuisines than by going to their place of origin, and getting stuck in. We asked our mentors about their favourite holiday destinations and the places that have inspired them. Maybe they’ll inspire your next trip?
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Belinda Spinney, Senior Mentor
“The best place I’ve ever been to was Japan. That was incredible. It was so different. I had the best food of my life there. I went to the fish market in Tokyo and had amazing sushi. In Kyoto, I had a ten-course tempura meal at a tempura bar; there were only eight people there. You had to book ahead – I went on my own. In Hiroshima, there’s a whole area where you can get okonomiyaki (savoury pancakes). Those were three of the highlights.”
Mel Ryder, Head of Production at Leiths Online
"Mine would be Lisbon, the food scene there is really varied and so exciting. I really love the Time Out Market, where you can try many of the best restaurants in the city in one place – great if you are short on time. There are so many talented chefs in Lisbon, so if you are looking for Michelin level experiences mixed with the deeply traditional, Lisbon has got it! In the Tascas (traditional Portuguese restaurants) on the must try list is of course Bacalhau (salt cod) and Bifana, which if you’ve never experienced it, I can only say it is the ultimate sandwich; although ‘sandwich’ doesn’t do enough to describe the Bifana with its flavour infused meat - it has even been described as a matter of national pride in Portugal!"
Martha Money, Mentor
“Tokyo was one of the most exciting places I have ever eaten. I loved everything I ate! More recently. Closer to my roots would be Charleston, South Carolina. Husk, The Ordinary, and Chez Nous do very inspired, delicious food that celebrates the best of local, farm-to-table produce.
Ali Young, Community and Mentor Manager
“Although I can think of some great food in far flung places, there is really no need to travel abroad to eat well - we are so blessed in the UK with wonderful chefs, restaurants and produce. I love a food packed home-ground holiday! Some highlights from the last few years’ trips around the Uk include memorable meals at Nathan Outlaw’s tiny Fish Kitchen in Port Isaac, Cornwall (so good I had to go twice!), a hearty and well thought out meal at The Old Swan at Swinbrook (in the Cotswolds) and one of my favourite food memories - the Old Bank Bistro In Snettisham, Norfolk (an absolute must visit!)"
Louisa Bergese, Mentor
“Melbourne, last month! My second home…In the CBD [Central Business District] Chin Chin is an institution for incredible Asian food; also, Lune for croissants and Pidapipo for the gelato of dreams. In Collingwood, try Commis wine bar for delicious South American food. In Fitzroy, Faraday’s Cage does an epic brunch. In Carlton North, there’s Florian for delicious food and great coffee, and Public Wine Store, a relaxed and elegant wine bar. In Richmond, check out Ca Com Banh Mi, which does banh mi with wood-fired meats.”
