Dining out in far-flung places

Renata Snidr, NARAT

It’s hardly surprising that Renata Snidr has had great dining experiences in far-flung locales.

After all, the NARAT employee’s travels have taken her to far-flung parts of the world, enabling her to sample different dishes and restaurants while doing so.

“I am a bit of a foodie, counting both restaurant dining and street food amongst the most memorable,” she says. “One of the most memorable indoor dining experiences I have had was at the Clos-Maggiore in London, England. Surrounded by the vibrant theatre and art scene of Covent Garden, this hidden jewel of a restaurant tucked away in a street corner has an enviable menu that is rated amongst the best in London. What is most memorable is the magnificent atmosphere when you step into its Conservatory. Your meal here takes place under a canopy of cherry blossoms over which is a glass roof, from which the stars twinkle through.”

Cuisines she gives the thumbs-up to include one from Central Africa.

“If you appreciate ethnic food, some of the most delectable food can be considered Ethiopian cuisine,” she says. “Restaurants in Toronto such, as Ethiopian House, are frequently rated as the best dining spots in the city. The culinary tradition is an extension of what you can find in Ethiopia. You are not going to find world-class fine dining restaurants in the country; however the delectability of food you encounter; from popup cafes, to street vendors to restaurants will make your taste buds jump for joy.  Be prepared to eat with your hands!

“A few other favourites that come to mind is stumbling across a German bakery in the middle of the desert enroute to Sossusvlei in Namibia. Other than the bakery, there is a general store, a small lodge and the only gas station for miles. The pastries and pies you find here are literally amongst the most delicious I have had. The generous helpings go a long way too.

“Japan is a food lover’s paradise – even if you do not like sushi. Osaka, known locally as ‘Tenka no daidokoro’ – the country’s kitchen –is the place to be in if your visit is guided by gastronomic factors. Osaka’s Dotonbori Street is a culinary wonderland to explore at night. Neon lights, 3-D signs and flashing billboards are now iconic visuals of Japan. The succulent smells of food stalls that greet travellers are alluring and serve as a taste of what’s to come (pun intended).

“A particular restaurant I dine in frequently when in Vietnam is the Cargo Club in Hoi An, which is a wonderful UNESCO heritage town that is adorned with colourful oriental lanterns. It is one of the magical towns of Vietnam. A river-facing table on the rooftop affords some of the best views the city has to offer and aptly, complements its exquisite cuisine.

“Still in Indochina, in Siem Reap, Cambodia, the Georges Rhumerie French Restaurant treats you to French-Khmer fusion cuisine in a setting that draws influence from the jungles of Cambodia and the streets of Paris for an unforgettable dining experience.”
Meanwhile, Snidr says food and travel are intertwined.

“Gastronomy in my opinion is part of a country’s identity,” she says. “Without knowing or experiencing its food, you only encounter one side of the culture. Even sharing a meal in the home of a local can ultimately elevate your appreciation of that destination visit.”