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Exploring Culinary Travel and Personal Favorites

How he chooses where to eat when traveling:

When it comes to dining while traveling, my preference leans towards casual eateries. While I will indulge in some fine dining experiences when visiting cities like Paris or London, my main focus remains on enjoying local gems, often guided by recommendations from fellow chefs. For instance, I always turn to esteemed chefs such as Pierre Gagnaire or Frédéric Anton in Paris, and Jason Atherton or Gordon Ramsay in London, for their insights on where to eat. However, the primary purpose of my travels isn’t solely centered on food. As someone who works with food every day, I prefer to immerse myself in the cultural aspects of a city, exploring it in a way that allows me to experience life as a local does.

A place he feels is underrated for its food:

Portugal stands out to me as an increasingly significant player in the global culinary scene. My visit two and a half years ago to Lisbon was an eye-opener, as I had the opportunity to explore a blend of traditional and modern dining experiences. I was particularly impressed by the innovative techniques of younger chefs who drew inspiration from Portuguese history and culture. Additionally, the enthusiasm of local sommeliers about their wines added to my appreciation of the country’s rising culinary status.

The best vacation he’s ever taken:

Each year, I make it a point to visit Mexico, which has become my favorite getaway. The beautiful beaches and the remarkable evolution of its wineries and tequila and mezcal programs over the past three decades have always fascinated me. The quality of wines has improved significantly, and local chefs are excelling in both traditional and contemporary Mexican cuisine. Although areas like Cabo San Lucas have gained popularity among American tourists, there are still authentic culinary experiences to be found in smaller towns, as well as in San Jose and San Lucas. The combination of exceptional golfing, relaxing beaches, and luxurious spas makes this destination even more appealing.

A hotel amenity that means a lot to him:

While I’m not one to indulge in room service, the presence of a coffee machine in a hotel room is a crucial amenity for me. I prefer having the ability to brew my own coffee in the comfort of my room rather than making a trip to the lobby’s coffee station. Starting my day with a fresh cup of coffee allows me to relax and prepare for what lies ahead without the need to dress up for a trip downstairs or wait for room service. Thus, a high-quality coffee machine ranks as my top priority when it comes to hotel amenities.

What he does when he’s back in New York:

Upon returning to New York, my first order of business is grocery shopping. Dining out isn’t typically on my agenda, but I do enjoy a few favorite restaurants in the city, such as Yakitori Totto, Marea, and Bar Masa, conveniently located next to Per Se. This allows me to grab a quick bite during service without straying far from work. My routine in New York tends to be rather uneventful, primarily revolving around spending time with my team at Per Se.

The destination that’s next on his list:

Vietnam has captured my interest as my next travel destination. I am particularly fascinated by its rich food history that blends French influences with Vietnamese traditions. The cultural depth of Vietnam, combined with its beautiful beaches and renowned hospitality, makes it a place I am eager to explore.

Source
www.cntraveler.com