Nestled against the tranquil banks of the majestic Rhône River, an enchanting culinary expedition awaits at the resplendent Intercontinental Grand Hôtel-Dieu in Lyon, France. This architectural masterpiece not only tantalizes the senses but also serves as a portal to bygone eras, where history and hedonism meld seamlessly within its storied walls. A symphony of opulence unfolds, inviting discerning connoisseurs and history aficionados alike to embark on a journey of indulgence.
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| The Intercontinental Grand Hôtel-Dieu glows at night |
Rooted in the annals of time, the Grand Hôtel-Dieu's lineage traces back to the 12th century. Founded with noble intent by the compassionate heart of Guy de Montpellier, esteemed Archbishop of Lyon, it began its journey as a sanctuary for the ailing and destitute. Over the centuries, its role evolved, weaving itself into the very fabric of the city's narrative until the year 2010.
In 2019, a transformative moment dawned, heralding a new chapter for the Grand Hôtel-Dieu. Once a bastion of solace and care, it emerged from its cocoon, now adorned with modern wonders. A harmonious blend of luxury accommodations, chic boutiques, culinary treasures, and artistic gems converges within this haven of urban renaissance.
Lyon, renowned as the epicenter of French gastronomy, sets the stage for an extraordinary culinary voyage. Epona Restaurant, a radiant jewel nestled within the Grand Hôtel-Dieu, stands as a testament to the city's gastronomic prowess. Under the guidance of Chef Mathieu Charrois, Epona weaves culinary enchantment that mirrors its namesake, the revered Gallo-Roman goddess synonymous with travel and equine grace.
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| Al fresco dining at Epona Restaurant |
On a balmy day, I indulged in an al fresco feast in one of the hotel's tranquil courtyard, serenaded by the lilting melodies of songbirds—a harmonious respite from Lyon's fervent summer embrace. A decadent dirty negroni heralded the commencement of the gastronomic voyage, paving the way for Brittany blue lobster tortellini, adorned with the gentle caress of sage-infused brown butter. As the avian chorus wove an enchanting backdrop, each bite unfurled a symphony of delicate flavors.
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| Delicate lobster tortellini |
Innovative artistry graced the plate as the iconic Lyonnaise quenelle underwent a contemporary metamorphosis—transformed into a modern fish stick luxuriating in a velvety sauce and tender spinach. Thick slices of Mediterranean red tuna followed, choreographed with garden-fresh herbs, radish, and mango—while a purple shiso tempura added a melodic medley of texture and taste.
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| A modern take of the Lyonnaise quenelle |
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| Mediterranean red tuna dancing amidst fresh garden herbs, radish and mango |
Throughout the meal, the chorus of birdsong remained a subtle companion even as a strawberry cereal dessert took center stage, accompanied by strawberry juice and rose champagne. A harmonious palate cleanse ensued, with the sweetness seamlessly interwoven with candied walnuts and glazed sugar—a sensory yet playful masterpiece in every spoonful.
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| Cleansing the palette with a strawberry dessert |
In the tapestry of Lyon's culinary landscape, the Intercontinental Grand Hôtel-Dieu stands as both a sentinel of heritage and a harbinger of gastronomic innovation. Its transformation from a sanctuary to an orchestra of splendor captures the Lyon's evolution, while the sumptuous offerings it houses within its walls celebrate the artistry of taste and the passage of time.
Disclaimer: I was provide a complimentary experience at Epona Restaurant in exchange for this review.
At the heart of Intercontinental Grand Hôtel-Dieu in Lyon, France, Le Dôme emerges as a testament to opulence and refinement, captivating guests with an unrivaled experience that marries architectural splendor, gastronomic artistry, and mixological innovation. As the sun's gentle rays paint the sky in hues of amber and gold, this illustrious establishment opens its doors to a world where elegance and indulgence converge.
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| High tea at Le Dôme |
At the stroke of three, a moment of anticipation unfolds as the remarkable 32-meter dome that crowns Le Dôme majestically unveils its treasures. A veritable cornucopia of delights unfurls before the guests, an orchestra of flavors both sweet and savory, orchestrated with meticulous precision. Against a backdrop of mustard gold and muted grays, every detail is a brushstroke in a masterpiece of design. The interplay of colors and textures sets the stage for an experience that is not only gastronomic but also visually enchanting.
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| This is what greets you at Le Dôme |
As patrons settle into their seats, they are met with a fusion of attentive care and avant-garde mixology. Every cocktail or tea infusion is a note in the sensory melody that plays out within the confines of Le Dôme. The bar's reputation precedes it, having ascended to the highest echelons of recognition in the hospitality industry. The crowning achievement, the prestigious title of the Best Hotel Bar in the World, bestowed upon it at the esteemed 2020-2021 Prix Villégiature Awards, stands as a laurel to its unwavering commitment to excellence.
The architectural wonder that is Le Dôme finds its genesis in the brilliance of Jacques-Germain Soufflot and is brought to life through the visionary lens of Jean-Philippe Nuel. This collaborative masterpiece marries historical legacy with contemporary elegance, resulting in an ambiance that is both grand and intimate. Every architectural nuance pays homage to the past while embracing the present, creating a space that invites patrons to step into a realm where time itself is transformed.
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| For dessert and architectural lovers |
Yet, Le Dôme's allure is not limited to its breathtaking design. The culinary offerings within its hallowed walls elevate the experience to an ethereal realm. High tea at Le Dôme is a crescendo of artistry, where each element is crafted with meticulous attention. Among the offerings, the invigorating berry choux tantalizes the palate with bursts of fruity exuberance, while the refreshing lemon meringue provides a delicate balance of tang and sweetness. Accompanying these sweet delicacies are lobster rolls that is as satisfying as it is elegant.
The culmination of flavors reaches its zenith through the cadence of black tea, creating a harmonious symphony that amplifies the high tea experience. The seamless fusion of taste and texture, aroma and ambiance, weaves a narrative that lingers long after the final sip is savored—a narrative that exemplifies the essence of Le Dôme.
Disclaimer: I was provide a complimentary experience at Le Dôme in exchange for this review.
Food festivals are a feast for the senses, offering a vibrant mix of flavors, aromas, and sights that are a dream for any foodie. From the bustling streets of Asia to the historic squares of Europe, these festivals not only celebrate culinary traditions but also provide unique opportunities to capture stunning images. Here’s a list of the top 6 food festivals around the world that you need to visit.
La Tomatina, Spain
La Tomatina, held annually in Buñol, Spain, is one of the most colorful and chaotic food festivals in the world. This festival is essentially a massive tomato fight, where participants throw overripe tomatoes at each other in the streets. The vibrant red of the tomatoes against the backdrop of the town’s white walls makes for striking photographs. To capture the action, consider using a waterproof camera like the GoPro HERO11 Black and protect yourself with a waterproof phone pouch.
Oktoberfest, Germany
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| Oktoberfest in Munich |
Oktoberfest in Munich is the world’s largest beer festival, attracting millions of visitors each year. With its vast beer tents, traditional Bavarian outfits, and hearty food like pretzels and sausages, Oktoberfest is a visual delight. To capture the festival’s lively atmosphere, a wide-angle lens like the Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM is perfect for shooting both the bustling crowds and the intricate details of the food.
Pizzafest, Italy
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| Pizza galore |
Held in Naples, the birthplace of pizza, Pizzafest is a must-visit for any pizza lover. This festival celebrates Italy’s most famous dish, with dozens of pizzerias offering their best slices. The festival’s vibrant colors, from the red of the tomato sauce to the green of the basil, make it a paradise for food photographers. To capture the rich colors and textures, consider using a prime lens like the Sony FE 50mm f/1.8 for those mouthwatering close-ups.
Taste of Chicago, USA
Taste of Chicago is one of the largest food festivals in the United States, showcasing the best of the city’s diverse culinary scene. From deep-dish pizza to gourmet burgers, this festival offers a wide array of foods to photograph. To ensure you get the best shots in a crowded setting, a versatile zoom lens like the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3G ED is ideal for capturing both wide-angle crowd scenes and detailed food close-ups.
Salon du Chocolat, France
Salon du Chocolat in Paris is a paradise for chocolate lovers, featuring everything from chocolate sculptures to gourmet tastings. The festival’s rich and luxurious visuals, combined with the intricate details of the chocolate creations, make it a perfect subject for photography. A macro lens like the Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L IS USM is essential for capturing the fine details of the chocolates up close.
Pingxi Sky Lantern Festival, Taiwan
While not strictly a food festival, the Pingxi Sky Lantern Festival in Taiwan is often accompanied by local food markets offering traditional Taiwanese snacks. The sight of thousands of illuminated lanterns rising into the night sky is breathtaking and offers a unique backdrop for food photography. To capture the lanterns and food stalls, a low-light lens like the Sigma 35mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art Lens is highly recommended.
Each of these festivals offers a unique blend of culture, tradition, and culinary delights that are a treat to photograph. Whether you're capturing the chaotic energy of La Tomatina or the refined elegance of Salon du Chocolat, having the right equipment is essential. Be sure to pack your gear, prepare for the unexpected, and most importantly, immerse yourself in the experience to capture the essence of these incredible food festivals.
On my first trip to Belgium many years ago, I was astonished to discover that their cuisine is as tempting as their nearby neighbors, France and Italy. One of the most delicious pastas I've ever had was actually in Brussels. That's why when I learned that Belga on Union Street started serving Belgian delights, I didn't hesitate to head over.
Lunch time in this part of the city during weekdays is actually quite calm. There were plenty of seats for my eating chums, who came all the way from their conference in fidi, and I. Because my stomach was growling, I wasn't able to take a picture of my burrata and iceberg lettuce salad- both a delightful, healthy lunch meal. My friend had a humungous steak with fries. Since I can't comment on anything that is red meat, I believed her when she said it was 'good'. A must eat here is their fries with ketchup, which tasted homemade with a hint of curry.
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| Dessert time! |
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| Fish croquettes for my appetizer. |
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| Lovely lunch spot |
There are a handful of wine regions around the world celebrated by and well-known to wine connoisseurs and amateurs alike. There’s Napa Valley in northern California, home to over 400 wineries. The famed Bordeaux region in southwest France, which boasts some of the most prestigious winemaking in the world. And of course Tuscany, producing unparalleled, timeless variations of the drink. While each of these places is renowned with good reason, there is a multitude of lesser-known wineries around the world that not only produce world-class wines, but also offer awe-inspiring experiences in relatively untouched areas of the globe. If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure, be sure to check out these four wine regions.
1. Douro Valley, Portugal
Running along the Douro River from northern Spain to the coastal city of Porto, the Douro Valley has been in the wine-producing business for over two thousand years. In fact, UNESCO has named Douro as one of the oldest wine-growing regions in the world. The steep hillsides lined with vineyards and sprinkled with family-owned quintas (wineries) make for quite a scenic adventure. Douro Valley is also home to Port wine, a fortified red wine only produced in this region.
Quinta da Pacheca is one of the oldest wineries in the area and offers the unique opportunity to stay the night in a large shed shaped like a wine barrel. They offer tours, wine tastings, and food pairings as well.
For a scenic winery nestled into the hillside, be sure to check out Quinta do Pôpa. In addition to tours and tastings, they provide full travel planning for sightseeing, things to do, and places to eat in the Douro region.
2. Mosel-Saar-Ruwer, Germany (Also known as, Moselle)
Located along the Mosel River in West Germany, Mosel is one of Germany’s oldest wine regions. The area is widely known for its white wine, particularly Riesling. The exceptionally steep slopes are said to produce better grapes because the rainwater flows quickly away into the river. Mosel is unique as almost all of the work is done completely by hand, which can be quite strenuous in such a precipitous landscape.
Elsewhere, S.A. Prum, one of the most famous wineries in this region, has been in one family since 1156. With sweeping views of the rolling green hills and cascading river, S.A. Prum is perfect for a serene getaway.
3. Texas Hill Country, USA
Located just one hour east of Austin, the Texas Hill Country region is home to picturesque hills, swimming holes, and the proverbial bluebonnets that sprinkle the countryside. With over nine million acres and a unique microclimate, this region is ideal for the production of cool climate grapes, Italian varietals, and Bordeaux blends. The region is relatively young in the wine production world, as most wineries have only been around since the 1990s. This fact makes Texas Hill Country's many domestic and international awards even more astounding.
The Fredericksburg Wine Road 290 is home to 16 award-winning wineries. While each is worth a visit, be sure not to miss Pedernales Cellars. Their large patio overlooking the hills combined with their live music makes for a quintessential Texas experience. Grape Creek Vineyards is also a must-see. Situated on over 100 acres, this Italian-themed winery gives you the feeling of being a world away from the USA.
4. Mendoza, Argentina
Located at the foothills of the Andes, this region in Argentina is home to wide open spaces, a beautiful mountainous backdrop, and unique architecture. Widely known for their legendary malbecs, Mendoza boasts over 1,500 wineries spread throughout the region.
It’s no surprise Mendoza produces such delectable grapes considering the Europeans originally brought their best varieties to the country years ago. From small family-owned estates to large corporate wineries, Mendoza has a little something for every taste.
Be sure not to miss Carmelo Patti, known as the most passionate winemaker in Mendoza. As a true craftsman, his amazing Malbec has won international acclaim. The Vines of Mendoza is also a spectacular winery to visit. Situated on over one thousand acres, the state of the art facility produces over 200 different wines.
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| Off the beaten path by VanSky |
Running along the Douro River from northern Spain to the coastal city of Porto, the Douro Valley has been in the wine-producing business for over two thousand years. In fact, UNESCO has named Douro as one of the oldest wine-growing regions in the world. The steep hillsides lined with vineyards and sprinkled with family-owned quintas (wineries) make for quite a scenic adventure. Douro Valley is also home to Port wine, a fortified red wine only produced in this region.
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| Duoro Valley by joyfull |
For a scenic winery nestled into the hillside, be sure to check out Quinta do Pôpa. In addition to tours and tastings, they provide full travel planning for sightseeing, things to do, and places to eat in the Douro region.
2. Mosel-Saar-Ruwer, Germany (Also known as, Moselle)
Located along the Mosel River in West Germany, Mosel is one of Germany’s oldest wine regions. The area is widely known for its white wine, particularly Riesling. The exceptionally steep slopes are said to produce better grapes because the rainwater flows quickly away into the river. Mosel is unique as almost all of the work is done completely by hand, which can be quite strenuous in such a precipitous landscape.
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| Moselle by Thorsten Schler |
3. Texas Hill Country, USA
Located just one hour east of Austin, the Texas Hill Country region is home to picturesque hills, swimming holes, and the proverbial bluebonnets that sprinkle the countryside. With over nine million acres and a unique microclimate, this region is ideal for the production of cool climate grapes, Italian varietals, and Bordeaux blends. The region is relatively young in the wine production world, as most wineries have only been around since the 1990s. This fact makes Texas Hill Country's many domestic and international awards even more astounding.
The Fredericksburg Wine Road 290 is home to 16 award-winning wineries. While each is worth a visit, be sure not to miss Pedernales Cellars. Their large patio overlooking the hills combined with their live music makes for a quintessential Texas experience. Grape Creek Vineyards is also a must-see. Situated on over 100 acres, this Italian-themed winery gives you the feeling of being a world away from the USA.
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| Texas Hill by Fotoluminate LLC |
Located at the foothills of the Andes, this region in Argentina is home to wide open spaces, a beautiful mountainous backdrop, and unique architecture. Widely known for their legendary malbecs, Mendoza boasts over 1,500 wineries spread throughout the region.
It’s no surprise Mendoza produces such delectable grapes considering the Europeans originally brought their best varieties to the country years ago. From small family-owned estates to large corporate wineries, Mendoza has a little something for every taste.
Be sure not to miss Carmelo Patti, known as the most passionate winemaker in Mendoza. As a true craftsman, his amazing Malbec has won international acclaim. The Vines of Mendoza is also a spectacular winery to visit. Situated on over one thousand acres, the state of the art facility produces over 200 different wines.
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| Mendoza by rocharlbelro |
Guess what I found inside the refrigerator!?! French macarons galore in pistachio and strawberry!!! Teeheeehee... I lost count how many there were after drooling at them. And best of all, I don't have to fly out to France just to get my hands on these babies.
