Food & Wine

What’s on your travel bucket list?

We love to travel, so it’s no surprise that we also have a pretty extensive bucket list. That being said, we thought it’d be fun to update our list based on the latest “must see” places from our favorite outlets.

Although we could go on and on about the cities and countries that we’ve visited or want to visit, we decided to pick out top five — spoiler alert: we primarily travel for food and wine:

1. ) Alsace, France —

Situated on the border of Germany and Switzerland, the French region is a artful blend of these countries. With the Rhine River and the Vosges Mountains, get ready for vibrant colors, expansive vineyards, and a bit of inspiration from Hansel and Gretel. Alsace is home to one of the most exquisite wine regions featuring complex versions of German varietals like Riesling and Gewürztraminer along the Alsace’s Route du Vin (wine road); a true blend representation of the Franco-Germanic culture. Although this is still France, be prepared for a heavier food like spätzle and potatoes with meat, a nod to their time of German rule along side Michelin starred restaurants.

2. ) Jackson Hole, Wyoming —

A quintessential mountain town, Jackson Hole is home to an abundance of natural beauty and wildlife. Near the Grand Teton National Park, we can see why pioneers decided to say and settle in the area — it’s breathtaking. Besides skiing, mountain biking, white water rafting and horseback riding, there’s plenty to do indoors. The city houses many luxury resorts and boutique hotels along with the National Museum of Wildlife Art featuring pieces from Andy Warhol and Georgia O’Keeffe. Don’t forget your golf clubs and swimsuit — the golf and hot springs will be calling your name!

3. ) Auckland, New Zealand —

If you’re trying to figure out a place to go during the winter months to get away from the bitter cold, skip the Bahamas and head straight to where the Kiwis live — New Zealand. Auckland, the country’s largest city, is brimming with food and wine, music, art and culture. From the beaches to the nightlife, you’re bound to have a great time while overlooking the two harbors. If you’re wanting to do some wine tasting, head to Waiheke Island for the afternoon and you won’t regret it.

4. ) Montréal, Québec —

What if you could have a European experience without crossing the ocean? Well, we have good news for you — it’s time to book a trip to Montréal. Not only do they speak French, the city transports you with its cobblestone streets, architecture, and culinary scene. Besides the poutine, smoked meats, and bagels, oenophiles and gourmandes will be impressed with the plentiful and delicious restaurants, expansive markets, and inventive cocktails.

5. ) Etyek, Hungary —

Budapest has been on many lists for the past few years but outside of the city sits Hungary’s unbeknownst 22 wine regions. A hidden gem located in Eastern Europe, Etyek is 18 miles from the capital and a must-go destination for culinary and wine lovers. Creating some of the most acclaimed wines because of its terroir, the region boasts Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Blanc among many others. Visiting Etyek is truly a gastronomic experience.

FOR MORE INSPIRATION, CHECK OUT THESE SOURCES:

Travel & Leisure

Condé Nast Traveler

Thrillist

Vogue

CNN

Take Your Bets: Food Trends for 2019

As we begin a new year, one of our favorite items to investigate is the trends for the year, particularly with food. Around December, the media outlets like Eater, Food & Wine, and Nation’s Restaurant News share their predictions for what will be all the rage. But, will they come true?

Whether they’re healthy, hip, or hilarious, we pulled a list of food fads that we’re betting on in 2019:

1. ) Flavorful Ingredients —

It’s all about the senses and global inspiration. Taking some nods from the Silk Road, expect to find a mashup of African, Middle Eastern, and Asian flavors to hit the main stream. Whether it’s finished with garam masala or ras el hanout, expect to have your taste buds challenged. Outside the spice rack, you’ll find fermented foods, native ingredients, and unusual sources of protein (we’re taking about those chirpy crawlers).

2. ) Ghost Restaurants —

We’ve all been there, you go to the nameless fast food joint, because you’re in a jam and staving, and you’re greeted with some ‘tude at the register. Not only does it make you frustrated, it could even ruin your day. Instead, blame technology for all of your grievances. These fully-automated restaurants mean that you will not have to engage with a single human from start to finish. Unless, of course, the Internet is out. Want to check it out for yourself? If you’re in Denver, try birdcall.

3. ) Dining At Home —

We’re 100% behind this movement to eat more at home. We’re not saying that you’re necessarily cooking from everything from scratch — think potlucks, meal kits, and prepared cheese trays, like these amazing concoctions from So Damn Gouda — but if that’s your prerogative, then do it! Plus, it’s about time you dined on those fancy plates.

4. ) Sustainable Packaging —

We all saw the turtle video which sparked the the no-plastic straws campaign, but in 2019 we’re going to demand more. It’s not enough to give us a discount for bring our own bags when we shop, we want stores and delivery companies to be conscientious of how they’re packaging our food. Restaurants and retail stores should find smart partners like VESSEL to lessen their carbon footprint.

5. ) Hold The Booze —

This goes way beyond those fruit juice laden mocktails. Instead, think lower-alcohol varieties like bitters, vermouth, sparkling wine, and shrubs making their way to the forefront of the bar. Don’t get us wrong, that doesn’t mean the happy is being taken out of happy hour. Instead, you’ll be extra happy the next morning.

For all of the 2019 trend predictions,

be sure to peruse our sources.

New York Times

PopSugar

Nation’s Restaurant News

Forbes

Eater

Food & Wine