GV Food & Drink

Dunkin’ Is Releasing a New Summer Munchkins Bucket—And It’s Perfect for the Beach!

Mariah Thomas — Mon, 23 Jun 2025 20:58:50 +0000

There’s a reason most of us can’t get enough of Dunkin’. Of course, that would be mouthwatering donuts and Munchkins, not to mention arguably the best coffee around. But Dunkin’ has also built a reputation for dropping limited-edition seasonal flavors and fun packaging that keep fans coming back.

Now, just in time for summer, Dunkin’ is releasing a brand-new Summer Munchkins Bucket, and it’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. It’s sugary, delicious and super fun—even more so if you’re hitting the beach.

Intrigued? You should be. Whether you’re a donut devotee or just looking to treat yourself on a sunny day, this new release will make your summer that much sweeter. Keep reading to find out what the new bucket is all about and when you can get your hands on it.

Get Reader’s Digest’s Read Up newsletter for more food news, fun facts, humor, cleaning, travel and tech all week long.

What is the new Dunkin’ summer bucket?

View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Markie_devo (@markie_devo)

The latest edition to the Dunkin’ lineup, the Summer Munchkins Bucket is the ultimate treat for donut lovers on the go. Each colorful bucket comes packed with 50 classic Munchkins of your choice—plenty to share … or keep all to yourself. No judgment!

The bucket features a sprinkle-punched orange lid, a bright magenta handle and a matching scoop to make snack time feel like a mini party. “So you can shovel those donut holes in your mouth? I’m in,” said one very happy TikTok fan, who may or not be kidding about that. Also, once you’re done munching on the donut holes, you can use the bucket to collect shells or make sandcastles with the kids!

Just a heads-up: While the bucket is filled with fan-favorite Munchkins, you won’t find seasonal specialties like the Orange N’ Vanilla or Pride donuts inside. But those are still available separately to round out your summer assortment.

How much does the Summer Munchkins Bucket cost?

Dunkin’s Summer Munchkins Bucket price tag can vary depending on your location. Most spots are offering a bucket filled with 50 Munchkins for between $10 and $17. But if you just want the colorful bucket without donuts, some stores are selling the empty bucket on its own for $3 to $5. Check with your local Dunkin’ for exact pricing in your area.

When will it be available?

Although the Dunkin’ Summer Munchkins Bucket will officially launch on June 25, lucky customers have already seen it pop up at select locations ahead of schedule. If Munchkins are now all you can think about, check in with your local Dunkin’—it could already have the bucket ready and waiting.

And don’t wait too long. We don’t know how long the buckets will be available for purchase. It might be only until they sell out, and shoppers are already snapping them up when they find them!

What are Dunkin’ fans saying about this summer treat?

Dunkin’s seasonal buckets always get love, but this summer’s version is really turning heads—especially for its vibrant design. One TikTok user dubbed it “the cutest sand bucket ever,” while another deemed it “way cuter than the Easter buckets.” Someone else was already planning their snack attack, commenting, “Gimme a bucket of glazed and 20 minutes.”

As noted above, it’s a multipurpose bucket that’s great for making sandcastles on beach days—or even accessorizing a beachy Halloween costume down the road. And just when you thought the bucket couldn’t get any better, one TikTok user pointed out a cool detail: “The bottom has a donut, so when you press it in sand, it makes a donut!” Sweet!

Why trust us

At Reader’s Digest, we’re committed to producing high-quality content by writers with expertise and experience in their field in consultation with relevant, qualified experts. We rely on reputable primary sources, including government and professional organizations and academic institutions as well as our writers’ personal experiences where appropriate. We verify all facts and data, back them with credible sourcing and revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.

Sources:

Instagram: @markie_devo
TikTok: @shay_rika
TikTok: @gabibistany
TikTok: @torries.story

Does McDonald's Serve Onion Rings?

Why McDonald's Coffee Is So Good

Buy This Freezer Staple at McDonald's

The post Dunkin’ Is Releasing a New Summer Munchkins Bucket—And It’s Perfect for the Beach! appeared first on Reader's Digest.

Connor Reid Named Supervising Producer of Eater Video Team

Eater Staff — Mon, 23 Jun 2025 17:26:00 +0000

Eater announced that Connor Reid has been promoted to supervising producer for the video team. Reid has been with the brand for six years, first hired as a producer, then promoted to senior producer before landing in his current role. He will be managing a new senior producer, Tom Daly, and producer, Gabby Lozano. Daly joins the team as Senior Producer to support productions in the field.

In his duties, Reid oversees the barbecue video series Smoke Point and spearheaded last year’s special on the American World Series of BBQ, for which he traveled to Kansas City, Kansas, to watch pitmasters from around the country compete for the title of grand champion. Additionally, he has produced both seasons of Icons, Pizza and Burgers, profiling legendary businesses like Paulie Gee’s and Hamburger America, respectively.

Currently, Reid is overseeing the benchmark Eater series Mis en Place, in its third annual partnership with Yeti, which takes viewers into some of the most prestigious kitchens around the world.

The Eater Video team has won five New York Emmy Awards including in 2022 and 2021; won a Webby Award in 2024; and been previously recognized by the James Beard Foundation, Daytime Emmys, and the ASMEs.

At Houston’s First LGBTQ+ Senior Center, Lunchtime Is for Building Community

Amy McCarthy — Mon, 23 Jun 2025 16:16:06 +0000

As noon — lunchtime — rapidly approaches, it is somehow both hot and muggy and pouring rain on a Wednesday in late May in Houston, but the vibes inside the Law Harrington Senior Living Center are totally sunny. In the Annise Parker Multipurpose Room, named for the city’s first openly gay mayor, elderly residents are sidling up to their tables as workers prepare to distribute lunch trays while they chat with regulars and newcomers alike.

On the menu today: King Ranch casserole, a Texas staple that’s sort of like cheesy layered enchiladas, plus steamed broccoli and carrots. For the folks who aren’t feeling the day’s chosen casserole, there’s cold sandwiches and tons of snacks scattered around the room. Everyone, though, is excited for dessert — an iconic Little Debbie Nutty Buddy bar. Most were really looking forward to that upcoming Friday, when a local funeral home was scheduled to drop off donated cupcakes for a monthly party celebrating all the Center’s June birthdays.

“That’s kind of ironic, the funeral home sponsoring the birthday party cupcakes,” I said as I chatted with one particularly gregarious resident.

Her response? “I think they’re out here trying to recruit new customers.”

Law Harrington’s well-appointed building on Cleburne Street in Houston’s historic Third Ward looks much like the many luxury midrise apartment complexes that dot the city’s landscape — it boasts a sleek modern design, a dog park, a gym. But as the city’s only senior living facility specifically focused on supporting the city’s aging LGBTQ+ population, this building isn’t your average old folks home. Inside these walls is a vibrant hub for building queer community among LGBTQ+ elders, all while enjoying a hot meal with friends and neighbors.

In Houston and across the country, LGBTQ+ seniors are uniquely vulnerable to housing instability and poverty in their golden years. They’re more than twice as likely than non-LGBTQ people to live alone without family, which means that many lack the support network that becomes increasingly important as a person gets older and needs help cooking meals, getting to medical appointments, or doing chores around the house.

“Our seniors have been on the front lines of our movement, and they didn’t really have the high-powered oil and gas jobs that many people in Houston had,” says Dan Cato, director of marketing and communications for the Montrose Center, which operates the Law Harrington Senior Living Center. “They were our bartenders, our entertainers, our drag queens, and so they are on very limited incomes. We wanted to support them in a way that meant that they could stay in the neighborhoods that they helped create.”

Law Harrington’s location was chosen specifically because of its proximity to both the Montrose, historically the nucleus of queer culture in Houston, and the Third Ward, a historically Black neighborhood. Both the Third Ward and the Montrose have been impacted heavily by gentrification in recent years, displacing Black and LGBTQ+ seniors from their respective homes as wealthier, less diverse residents move in. Since opening its doors in 2021, Law Harrington serves as a place of connection for two communities, both of which are more likely to experience financial instability, housing discrimination, and other inequities as they age. About a third of LGBTQ+ seniors are low-income, and those rates increase dramatically for transgender seniors, people of color, and persons over the age of 80. Even though Black seniors only make up about 9 percent of the total American elderly population, they make up 21 percent of all elders living below the federal poverty level. They also experience food insecurity at a rate that’s nearly four times higher than their white counterparts.

Open to all people over the age of 62 who are income-qualified to live there, the Law Harrington is not exclusively home to LGBTQ+ people. It can’t be, because of the way that federal housing law works — it must be equally open to all regardless of their sexuality or gender identity. But the Center is unapologetically and unabashedly queer-centric. It’s named for Charles Law and Gene Harrington, both legendary queer activists with roots in Houston. The space is decked out with trans pride flags and rainbows are abundant. Still, there’s a large contingent of non-LGBTQ+ residents, and the Center’s staff members aren’t afraid to have confrontations with anyone who might not be respectful of their queer neighbors.

“There’s a pretty large contingent of residents who are not LGBTQ+, and every LGBTQ+ senior center has kind of struggled to find the balance,” Christian Capo, the Center’s social services program director, says. “But we’re very insistent on being clear that this is a LGBTQ+ affirming space, and if you’re not comfortable with seeing 17 rainbow flags every day, that’s not going to work.”

Lunch is delivered daily by Baker Ripley, a 100-plus-year-old Houston nonprofit that operates a sprawling range of social programs across the city. Meeting the nutritional needs of seniors, many of whom have dietary restrictions or specific dietary requirements, is a highly specific task. Most of their diets are low-sodium and low-calorie, to help with conditions like hypertension or diabetes. Each meal is developed in conjunction with a registered dietician to ensure that the meals can actually meet the needs of those who eat them. Judging by the May menu posted outside the lunchroom, there’s an emphasis on lots of veggies, grains, and pulses like lentils, and milk is offered with most meals to help combat issues like osteoporosis and vitamin D deficiency.

You don’t have to live at Law Harrington to score a lunch plate free of charge. Seniors over the age of 60 who live elsewhere are asked to sign up a day in advance for their hot meal, so that Law Harrington employees can ensure that they’ve ordered enough meals for everyone who needs to eat. Diners who don’t live at Law Harrington are encouraged to show up early and enjoy free coffee, play board games or dominoes, and of course, socialize with the folks in their community. Today, there are about 45 people signed up to eat, including both first-time visitors and longtime residents.

Carmen, a resident who lives at Law Harrington with his cat, Princess, says that lunch is his favorite part of living at Law Harrington. Born in North Carolina, he was living in Atlanta when he came to Houston for the first time, and fell in love with the Montrose’s vibrant queer culture. He moved here in 1981, but eventually, as its real estate became more desirable among real estate developers, Carmen got priced out of the Montrose. At Law Harrington, he can both live affordably in the neighborhood he loves while getting the support he needs. He can obtain medical care, get a ride to a nearby grocery store, hang out in one of the cozy chairs in the building’s library, or simply relax at home with Princess before coming to lunch to socialize.

It’s this sense of community that the Center’s congregate meal program hopes to foster. “Congregate meal program” is a jargony term popular in the elder care world that simply means healthy, nutritious meals that are served in a group setting, according to the Nutrition and Aging Resource Center. Research shows that congregate meal programs are incredibly beneficial for seniors for a number of reasons, not least of which is that they can combat the serious loneliness that many elderly people experience. For many seniors these meals are literally a lifeline — getting out for lunch and staying social can help them stay healthy and maintain their independence for longer.

“It really is all about the interaction. Maybe you can’t come every day because you’ve got doctor’s appointments or you’re going to your grandkid’s soccer game, but knowing that you have the option to come and have a meal five days a week makes it a lot easier to keep interacting,” Capo says. “We want everyone to have some consistency and some social interaction in their lives, on their terms. The loneliness is really the number one thing we’re trying to address.”

According to the residents, not all the dishes served here are winners, but they agree that the quality of the food is generally excellent. Even Jeremy, a resident who had a few gripes about some of the Center’s policy choices and expressed an interest in more pork-free options for religious reasons, couldn’t help but brag. “The food really has gotten much better over the last two years,” Jeremy said as he enjoyed his lunch. “And the service is impeccable. Everybody is so accommodating, for the most part.”

Beyond lunch, the team at Law Harrington also works to keep seniors fed the other two meals of the day. The apartments are equipped with kitchens, and many residents cook meals for themselves and their neighbors. An emergency pantry stocked with staples provided by the Houston Food Bank is open a few times a week, and the nonprofit Common Market drops off boxes of fresh produce every two weeks that residents can use to cook at home. Second Servings, a nonprofit that rescues unused food from restaurants and grocery stores, frequently drops off meals and regularly hosts a pop-up grocery store at the Center where seniors can “shop” for produce and pantry staples.

Richard, a resident who’s been at Law Harrington practically since it opened, especially loves the produce deliveries, which he uses to make a big batch of veggie soup that he slow-cooks all night long. “I’ll spend an hour cleaning up the vegetables and cutting them, then you just throw it all in there with chicken broth,” Richard says. “It doesn’t matter what you put in there, it always tastes wonderful.” His lunch companion Peter, on the other hand, is more of a baker, who just finished off the last of a homemade red velvet cake.

The residents of Law Harrington have lived a thousand lives before landing here. Before retirement, Richard worked as a teacher, a fashion consultant, and a hospice chaplain. One woman, whose family had been heavily involved in the Nation of Islam organization in her youth, showed me a photo of herself as a smiling 20-something standing next to the legendary boxer Muhammad Ali, taken shortly before he famously refused to make himself eligible for the draft during the Vietnam War. All of these experiences make for excellent conversation over lunch, and the atmosphere in the dining room is heady with stories, cheeky jokes, even a little light political chatter.

Now nearly five years old, Law Harrington’s staff is continually looking to build even more bridges between the people it serves and the broader community, especially young queer people. There’s discussions of bringing in participants from Hatch, the Montrose Center’s group for LGBTQ+ teens, and a few summers ago, a group of Boy Scouts built community gardens for the residents to complete their Eagle Scout projects. The Houston Gaymers, a group for LGBTQ+ video game enthusiasts in the city, stop by yearly to spend a day playing board games and chatting with the residents.

“The coolest thing about this space is the way that it brings so many different people together, and you can really see the impact of that,” Capo says. “The conversations that we’ve had here, and the tolerance and community building that comes out of people just talking to each other is incredible. There was a time in the beginning when people were a little more shy, but now you see people from very disparate backgrounds and life experiences all intermingling and hanging out together. It’s incredible to see.”

Spice Up Your Summer With Hot Dishes at These 13 Chicago Spots

Aimee Levitt — Mon, 23 Jun 2025 15:40:33 +0000

It may seem counterintuitive, but one of the best ways to keep cool in hot weather is to order up some spicy food. Spice causes you to sweat, and sweat lowers your body temp. That’s the scientific argument, anyway. Another possibility: A cold beer perfectly pairs with spicy food, soothes a burning tongue, and that’s what cools you down.

Blue Moon, in particular, has a unique blend of sweet, subtle citrus and wheat notes that complement hot and spicy flavors especially well, whether it’s fiery chicken wings, chili-spiced tacos, or peppery barbecue. Luckily, Chicagoland has a wealth of places to enjoy a Blue Moon with spicy foods this summer.

What Should You Do if ICE Comes to Your Restaurant?

Jaya Saxena — Mon, 23 Jun 2025 14:38:26 +0000

An ICE officer | MediaNews Group via Getty Images

In an interview on CNN in January, border czar Tom Homan bemoaned that immigrants in the U.S. were too informed. “Sanctuary citizens are making it very difficult to arrest the criminals,” he said, apparently annoyed that immigrants would be aware of basic rights they are owed by the government he works for. “For instance, Chicago, very well-educated. They’ve been educated how to defy ICE, how to hide from ICE.”

The ICE raids that the Trump administration has ordered across the country rely on fear, and there’s no shortage of that. Farm workers aren’t showing up to pick fruit, and street vendors aren’t showing up to run their businesses. They’re keeping their children home from school. “People in the neighborhood are talking about it. Agents are coming around, and people are scared to go to work,” a restaurateur in Queens told GrubStreet. And ICE has grown more violent and flagrant as the raids have gone on, detaining citizens and politicians, all while refusing to identify themselves.

According to the American Immigration Council, immigrants of all statuses make up 22 percent of the food service industry, and ICE agents are sweeping up everyone in their raids on businesses. “We’re seeing lots of reports of unlawful arrests, extra judicial arrests, and disregard for the Fourth Amendment standards that they should be following in the way that they carry out the arrests,” says Jessie Hahn, senior counsel for labor and employment policy at the National Immigration Law Center. And how an ICE raid may play out in a business is different from what it could look like on the street or in an individual home, which is why it’s important for all restaurant and food industry workers to know what to do if ICE shows up at work. We spoke to Hahn, and consulted other experts, about how restaurant workers and owners can work together to keep everyone safe.

Know the difference between public and private spaces

There are distinctions about what ICE can do in public versus private spaces, and much of the Know Your Rights literature out there, like these guides published by the Immigrant Defense Center, focus on what to do if ICE stops you on the street, where the question of entering a space without consent doesn’t apply. “A lot of this is what lawyers look at as bedrock, constitutional Fourth Amendment and Fifth Amendment protections that are not unique to immigration enforcement,” says Hahn. The Fourth Amendment protects against unreasonable searches and seizures, and differentiates between what can be searched in public and what can be searched in private without a warrant.

For restaurants, spaces like the bar and dining room count as public places “because anyone from the general public can enter,” says Hahn. This means ICE could question both workers and customers in those areas (to which the Immigrant Defense Project suggests asking if you’re free to go, or invoking your right to remain silent). But just as the general public can’t enter the kitchen or the manager’s office, neither can ICE without a judicial warrant giving them explicit permission. “You should consider placing signage indicating certain areas as ‘private’ to distinguish them from public areas in advance of any ICE raid,” writes the hospitality practice group of the Fox Rothschild law firm.

But it’s not just enough to mark a space as private. The door to that private area must also remain closed. “ICE is doing a good job of not busting down doors to private businesses,” says Brittney Valles, co-founder of the Independent Hospitality Coalition. But she notes the recent case of a taco truck in LA that was raided by ICE. “The door was open, and so they were able to enter the kitchen space. So the advice that we’re giving to owners is, don’t leave the door ajar. Make them slip a warrant under the door.”

Make sure staff knows who is authorized to let ICE in

Most legal authorities have the ability to enter private spaces if given consent by the business owner. “What we recommend is that owners communicate with all of their staff, and that the staff is clear that only the employer has the ability to grant that permission “to enter private areas, says Hahn. “If they are asked, they should say, essentially, ‘I don’t have the authority to grant you access.’”

Know the difference between a judicial warrant and an administrative warrant

It’s understandable to see a government official with a gun flash a piece of paper that says “warrant” and let them do whatever they want out of fear. But according to Hahn, it’s crucial that restaurant workers and owners know the difference between a judicial warrant and an administrative warrant because a judicial warrant is the only type of warrant that gives federal authorities permission to enter a private space without the owner’s consent.

“A judicial warrant is going to be signed by a judge, and at the top it’s going to name the court that the judge sits on,” says Hahn. A judicial warrant will also list a time frame for a search to be conducted, specific areas or items to be searched, and will allow officers to enter locked areas listed. Ask for a copy of the warrant and keep track of exactly where it authorizes ICE to go.

Hahn says many officers will attempt to enter without a warrant at all, or with an administrative warrant, which does not give them the legal authority to enter a private area without consent of the owner. “An administrative warrant will usually say Department of Homeland Security on the top, or Immigration and Customs Enforcement,” rather than the name of a court and judge, says Hahn. “It is important to kind of stop and take a beat and say, ‘I need to see the document and look at the document and understand, is this a judicial warrant or not?’”

Don’t accidentally communicate

Unfortunately, there have been documented instances of ICE agents arresting and kidnapping people even after being asked to show a judicial warrant. During a recent Know Your Rights training, Valles says “we were trying to push everybody past that point because ICE doesn’t seem to care.” Instead, she emphasized not falling for ICE’s attempts to get workers to reveal more information than they wanted.

You may understand your Fifth Amendment right as the right to stay silent, but that includes other forms of communication. “When ICE comes into a worksite, one of the typical things that happens is that they will tell people to separate by status or by category or by nationality,” says Hahn. “If you stay silent, but you walk to the corner of the room for the people who were born somewhere other than the United States, you just admitted [your citizenship status] even though you never said anything.” Citizens and non-citizens alike have constitutional rights, so if ICE asks you to self-sort, stay where you are.

Document everything

Most experts advise anyone subject to these raids to document what is happening, whether on your phone or in written notes, but not to interfere. “Do not lie or provide false information to officers or attempt to destroy or hide any documents or items. Do not assist employees with hiding from officers or leaving the premises or encouraging them to do so,” says Fox Rothschild. Restaurant owners can inform employees that they have the choice to speak with ICE or not, but they should not attempt to convince employees to refuse. But also, owners do not have to provide information on any employee’s immigration status, or even identify specific individuals to ICE. “You don’t want to obstruct them,” says Hahn. “But you can still make it clear that you are declining to consent to a search, and then you can watch carefully what they’re doing and keep track of what they’re saying and what they’re doing.”

Hahn says to make sure your phone stays on the ICE agent at all times, and Valles notes the importance of being clear and vocal in any documentation. “While you’re recording, say all the things like You don’t have a warrant. We don’t authorize you to be here. “Because if this is going to go to a court level, you want to make sure that it was very explicit that you said all of the things that you needed to say, and it’s on camera, and they definitely heard you.”

Know what you’re up against

Valles says many ICE raids are coming through I9 audits, so “now is a good time to audit all of your I9s to make sure that everything is in compliance, so that you don’t give any wiggle room.” It’s also probably a good idea to ensure the restaurant has active legal counsel. If that’s the case, “the host/receptionist or company representative should inform ICE that counsel is being contacted. If counsel is able to come to the premises immediately, the company representative should request that the officers wait for counsel to arrive before proceeding,” writes Fox Rothschild. It may not keep ICE from proceeding with a search, but it can help an employer if contesting the search later to say that ICE ignored these requests.

And in general, restaurants with large immigrant workforces — regardless of documentation status — would do well to contact local immigration lawyers, and give employees those numbers and resources. By working together, restaurants can keep their workers and customers safe.

The silver lining is that there are instances in which communities have come together to protect their neighbors and chase ICE away. “We are seeing immigrant communities and employers exercising their rights and pushing back,” says Hahn. “So that is great, because when communities know their rights, they can better resist the raids and all the harm that they’re creating.”

Update: June 23, 2025, 10:10 a.m.: This article has been updated throughout with additional guidance.

7 Essential Tips for Exploring Kuala Lumpur Jakarta Route

WILSON NG — Mon, 23 Jun 2025 12:53:52 +0000

7 Essential Tips for Exploring Kuala Lumpur Jakarta Route

The Kuala Lumpur Jakarta route is one of the busiest and most important connections between Malaysia and Indonesia. Whether you’re traveling for business or a short getaway, preparation is key to a smooth journey.

With multiple flights available daily, knowing how to make smart travel choices can save you time, money, and energy. This article provides practical tips for a better and more enjoyable trip along this route.

Travel Smarter on the Kuala Lumpur Jakarta Route

Travel between these two Southeast Asian capitals is fast and frequent, but it can be stressful without good planning. A few simple tips can make a huge difference.

Below are seven essential travel tips to help you get the most out of your Kuala Lumpur Jakarta experience.

1. Book Your Flight Ahead of Time

Flight prices rise quickly as departure dates approach. Booking early helps you secure lower fares and better time slots for your journey.

Try to plan your trip at least two or three weeks in advance for the best rates available. This also gives you more choices for departure times and seats, improving the overall experience.

2. Choose a Reliable Airline for Peace of Mind

Selecting a trusted airline like TransNusa ensures your flight is on time and the process is smooth from check-in to landing.

TransNusa offers reliable service with schedules tailored for Malaysian and Indonesian travelers. Flying with a dependable carrier reduces the risk of last-minute issues or delays.

3. Travel During Off-Peak Hours

Avoid flying on Friday evenings or Monday mornings when airports are busiest. These time slots usually mean higher ticket prices and longer queues.

Midweek flights, like those on Tuesday or Wednesday, tend to be cheaper and more relaxed overall. Less crowding at the airport improves comfort and speeds up the boarding and arrival process.

4. Keep Your Travel Documents Ready

Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months and have your travel documents easily accessible during your trip.

Though no visa is required for short visits, always check entry requirements before you fly. Having everything in order helps you move faster through immigration and customs.

5. Pack Light for Short Trips

For flights under three hours, bring only carry-on luggage to skip baggage fees and avoid delays at baggage claim.

Check the airline’s weight limit and size rules so you don’t face issues at the gate. Packing light also allows you to move more freely upon arrival, especially if you’re heading straight to meetings.

6. Stay Updated on Flight Schedules

Use airline apps or email alerts to stay informed about any changes in your flight’s departure or arrival time.

Weather and air traffic can affect timing, so having real-time updates can help you adjust quickly. TransNusa provides schedule notifications to keep travelers informed and prepared.

7. Plan Your Transport on Arrival

Jakarta is known for its traffic, so arranging your transport in advance can save time and reduce stress after landing.

Use trusted apps or book airport pickup services to avoid long taxi queues and fare uncertainty.This also helps ensure a smoother transition from the airport to your hotel or destination.

Conclusion

Traveling the Kuala Lumpur–Jakarta route can be seamless with the right preparation. By booking smart and staying informed, you can avoid unnecessary stress and enjoy a smooth journey.

Start planning your next trip now. Check flight schedules and fares at TransNusa flights from Kuala Lumpur to Jakarta for a simple, efficient travel experience.

———-

Keyword: Kuala Lumpur Jakarta

The post 7 Essential Tips for Exploring Kuala Lumpur Jakarta Route appeared first on PlacesAndFoods.

If You See a Red Tag on an Item at Aldi, This Is What It Means

Kelly Bryant — Fri, 20 Jun 2025 13:25:33 +0000

Once you get past the whole temporarily-paying-for-a-shopping-cart thing, Aldi is a pretty magical place. There’s the Aisle of Shame, the low prices and those cashiers who scan items at the speed of light. And let’s not forget the chain’s annual advent calendar filled with wine. (Cheers to Christmas at Aldi!)

But there’s still a certain mystique around Aldi if you aren’t completely familiar with how the company operates. Like Aldi’s red tags on certain items—what are those all about? Should you grab an item if you see a red tag adorning it, or should you steer clear?

The good news is that you don’t have to be a member of a secret club to decode Aldi’s tags. In fact, Aldi eschews the idea of any sort of loyalty program—the company believes the value of its products speaks for itself. So let’s demystify those red tags so you know exactly what you’re looking at the next time you make an Aldi run.

Get Reader’s Digest’s Read Up newsletter for more news, humor, travel, tech, cleaning and fun facts all week long.

What does it mean if you see a red price tag at Aldi?

It means you’re about to save some money!

“A red tag is a signifier that Aldi is looking to move on the product fast for two main reasons,” says Dan Wilderness, founder of The Financial Wilderness, where he covers personal-finance topics and money-saving tips. “First, the packaging is damaged. You’ll usually see a 30% discount with this. It’s worth considering what’s within to see if there’s a danger of the product being damaged, but if not, this is purely about an imperfect box, so it’s a great way to get something cheap.”

Wilderness says the second reason an item may have a red tag is because the product is about to expire, so before buying it, be honest with yourself about whether you’re really going to use it before that date. “This is usually food and will be due to expire either that day or immediately afterward, so you’ll want to use it soon,” he says. “Discounts here will vary depending what it is but can be up to 70%.”

How do you get the discount?

It’s simple—so simple, in fact, that all you have to do is throw the red-tagged item in your cart and head to checkout.

“Aldi shoppers just need to grab the products that bear the red labels or stickers in order to receive these discounts,” says savings expert Marc Mezzacca, founder of CouponFollow. “In the case of products that have red markdown labels with a nearby expiration date, it would be best to make the cashier aware, although the discount is usually recognized automatically.”

Well, that sounds easy.

How much of a discount can you expect?

It really depends on the product. Mezzacca notes that red tags labeled “Aldi Savers” offer substantial savings, often as much as as 33% off normal price.

“Clearance items are often priced for sale at their final discounted price, though savings can be variable,” he says. “Prices on Aldi Finds are already set and generally have reasonable value, though specific discount percentages often aren’t marked. The most dramatic savings are often red-stickered perishables, often reduced up to 50%.”

What does Aldi do with unsold food?

To avoid having unsold food, Aldi offers plenty of markdowns before items expire. However, in the event the store does not sell these items, it might mitigate the potential for food waste by donating unsold food to various charities, including Feed America. Through that organization, Aldi collaborates with local food banks so that stores are giving back to the very communities in which they operate.

About the experts

Dave Wilderness is the founder of The Financial Wilderness, where he writes about a variety of personal-finance topics, including supermarket savings.
Marc Mezzacca is a savings expert and the founder of CouponFollow, which helps people save money at online retailers by providing coupon codes and shopping advice.

Why trust us

Sources:

Dave Wilderness, founder of The Financial Wilderness; interviewed, June 2025
Marc Mezzacca, savings expert and founder of CouponFollow; interviewed, June 2025

What the Heck Is Aldi?

Here's Why Aldi's Cashiers Stay Seated

Bad Habits Aldi Customers Should Avoid

The post If You See a Red Tag on an Item at Aldi, This Is What It Means appeared first on Reader's Digest.

Weekend Trip to Nanjing China

Jennifer Che — Fri, 20 Jun 2025 08:08:15 +0000

I took a short weekend trip to Nanjing, China at the beginning of April 2024.

Nanjing is a former capital of China and has a lot of history.

The Japanese invaded Nanjing during the second Sino-Japanese War and massacred tens to hundreds of thousands of people, something the Chinese still very much remember to this day. A museum devoted to the massacre is one of the main sites to visit. I didn't get to visit due to my flight time, but my friends had time to spend a whole afternoon there. They said it was definitely somber and difficult, and you needed to be in the right frame of mind to visit.

Ancient Wall in Nanjing

As an ancient city, Nanjing is surrounded by an old city wall. These walls are fascinating to visit, and the one in Nanjing is no exception. You do need to buy tickets to enter the wall area, but it is well worth the money.

Not only do you get to go inside the wall and explore the interesting dark alleys and “rooms”, you get to walk along the long wall above the city for miles and miles on end!

Try walking from one gate to another, for example, which may only be a few kilometers.

Sadly I had to head to the airport, so I had no time to take a longer “hike” along the wall. However, my friend brought her (“roll-y”) suitcase and actually walked a large portion of the wall before catching a ride to the airport for her later flight.

Niushou Mountain

Nanjing is full of beautiful mountains, parks and gardens, some of which include the surrounding hills which provide beautiful panoramic views.

We visited Niushou Mountain, a famous Buddhist mountain which includes the famous Usnisa Pagoda.

During the spring the park is full of blooming trees! The blossoms are beautiful and add so much color to the whole park.

The park is big, so even if there are a lot of visitors, you can typically find some quiet space to enjoy the beautiful nature that surrounds you.

Food

Nanjing‘s most famous dish is probably the Nanjing Salted Duck, which you find in most restaurants (and even the airport duty free shop!). Even the Courtyard Marriott, where I stayed, gave me a cute little stuffed duck as part of their welcome gift (so cute!).

2025 on the World’s 50 Best Restaurants list, beating out Asador Etxebarri in Atxondo, Spain (which landed at No. 2) for the coveted spot. It’s the second time a restaurant in Lima, Peru has won the title — Central being the first, in 2023. In his acceptance speech, chef Mitsuharu ‘“Micha” Tsumura — who opened Maido in 2009 — noted his belief that “hospitality can do amazing things: It can make dreams come true, it can solve most of the problems that we think cannot be solved.”

Maido will occupy the number one position until next year. That’s because in 2019 the organization announced a rule change stating that after a restaurant ascends to the No. 1 spot, it becomes ineligible and is removed from the list in future years. Although the change in eligibility rules was at first billed as a diversity initiative, reporting from Lisa Abend in 2019 revealed that chefs fearing a ding to their reputations as they fell from the top spot lobbied for the change.

Below, a comprehensive look at all of the restaurants that the World’s 50 Best have deemed best in the world. You’ll note that nearly all of the restaurants that have been ranked first are located in Europe; those that aren’t in Europe serve European-style tasting menus; and all of the restaurants except Central are helmed exclusively by men.

Maido is the 2025 World’s Best Restaurant

Year at No. 1: 2025

Vital intel: Chef Mitsuharu ‘Micha’ Tsumura embodies Nikkei cuisine — Peruvian ingredients shaped by Japanese techniques — at his restaurant, which opened in 2009. In the years since, Maido was named Latin America’s Best Restaurant by the 50 Best organization four times. Tasting menus (without pairings) start at 1190 sol (or $331 USD) and might include dishes like asado de tira nitsuke (a braised beef short rib), toro belly cut tableside, and a smoked paiche ham served as one bite. Reservations — even before this latest 50 Best accolade — book out months in advance.

Disfrutar, Barcelona, Spain

Years at No. 1: 2024

Vital intel: Chefs Eduard Xatruch, Mateu Casañas, and Oriol Castro opened Disfrutar in December 2014 and have accrued accolades ever since. In addition to holding the top spot on the World’s 50 Best List, it was awarded three Michelin stars in 2024. The El Bulli-trained chefs offer diners their choice of tasting menus featuring either Disfrutar classics or seasonal dishes, each with around 20 courses for 290 euros ($315 USD). Those courses celebrate molecular gastronomy, with surprising textures and whimsical platings served in an ambiance that, the Eater Guide to Barcelona notes, is “never too stuffy.”

Central, Lima, Peru

Years at No. 1: 2023

Vital intel: Chef-owners Virgilio Martínez and Pia León take diners through Peru’s various ecosystems by borrowing ingredients and inspiration for each course on Central’s menu from a different altitude. From their flagship space in Lima, they offer both “classic” and “experimental” versions of a set tasting menu, for PEN 1590 (that’s about $404). Central is the first restaurant outside of Europe or the United States to take home the top honors, and the first restaurant with a woman credited as a co-chef or chef to hold the number one spot.

Geranium, Copenhagen, Denmark

Years at No. 1: 2022

Vital intel: Helmed by chef Rasmus Kofoed, Geranium is one of Denmark’s most celebrated culinary establishments, and the first restaurant in the country to earn three Michelin stars. (Yes, it beat Noma to it by several years.) From its eighth floor perch, the restaurant’s dining room overlooks the scenic Fælledparken gardens. Currently, the three-hour “Spring Universe” tasting menu clocks in at $4,200 DKK (about $613 USD). The restaurant has been meat free since 2022.

Noma, Copenhagen, Denmark

Years at No. 1: 2021, 2014, 2012, 2011, 2010

Vital intel: René Redzepi, famed for his foraging expeditions and fermenting techniques, redefined what it means to be a locavore with Noma. The restaurant’s new Nordic, hyper-local cuisine made Copenhagen a global dining destination and served as a training ground for a number of notable chefs. In 2016, Redzepi closed Noma. He opened a new Noma in Copenhagen in early 2018. That restaurant was considered eligible for the 2019 list, landing at No. 2. And after 2020 pandemic hiatus, the restaurant won the top honors on the 2021 list. In January 2023, the restaurant announced that it would close — permanently, this time — by the end of 2024, with plans to do the occasional pop-up.

Mirazur, Menton, France

Years at No. 1: 2019

Vital intel: Mirazur, which overlooks the Mediterranean Sea, isn’t known for being particularly influential, but Colagreco has been building his reputation for years. The Italian-Argentine chef honed his approach to French cuisine working along side chefs Alain Passard and Alain Ducasse. He opened Mirazur in 2006 serving a tasting menu inspired by three themes: sea, garden, and mountain. That menu, available for both lunch and dinner currently costs 450 euros, or around $490, per person.

Osteria Francescana, Modena, Italy

Years at No. 1: 2018, 2016

Vital intel: Osteria Francescana had been hovering near the top spot before making it to no. in 2016. Massimo Bottura’s Italian restaurant was ranked second in 2015, and third the year before that. The first Italian restaurant to reach the top of the list, Osteria Francescana has a reputation for being near-impossible to get into, thanks in part to chef Bottura’s whimsical menu items, like “You say Tomato, I say Tomato… and Bread” and “From Gragnano to Bangkok.” The tasting is currently 350 euros, or $381.

Eleven Madison Park, New York

Years at No. 1: 2017

Vital intel: Daniel Humm and Will Guidara vied for the top spot on the World’s 50 Best list since their restaurant made it into the top 50 in 2010, a year before the chef and general manager purchased EMP from Danny Meyer. The restaurant, which serves a seasonal tasting menu and also has three Michelin stars and four from the New York Times, is just the second American restaurant to be named best in the world by this particular list. Just months after landing the No. 1 spot, the restaurant underwent a major renovation; in 2021, Humm announced its menu would go completely vegan. Currently, it offers a five-course tasting for $285, or a full tasting for $365.

El Celler De Can Roca, Girona, Spain

Years at No. 1: 2015, 2013

Vital intel: In 2013, the modernist Spanish restaurant became the second restaurant from the Girona region of Spain to make it to the top of the list. At El Celler De Can Roca, Roca brothers Joan, Josep, and Jordi serve two avant-garde tasting menus: a regular tasting with five main courses, and a “festival” version with a whopping 12 main courses (not including appetizers and desserts). Since being named the world’s best, the brothers have been as committed to international outreach as they are to innovation, becoming Goodwill Ambassadors for the United Nations Development Program and embarking on a 2014 worldwide tour.

El Bulli, Girona, Spain

Years at No. 1: 2009, 2008, 2007, 2006, 2002

Vital intel: The first restaurant to nab the top spot, El Bulli ties with Noma for most years spent at number one. The Spanish restaurant pioneered modernist, molecular gastronomy techniques, and El Bulli chef Ferran Adrià trained several renowned chefs early in their careers, including José Andrés and fellow World’s 50 Best chef René Redzepi. El Bulli closed in 2011, with Adrià turning it into a foundation, research lab, and museum called El Bulli 1846.

The Fat Duck, Bray, England

Years at No. 1: 2005

Vital intel: At the time the Fat Duck topped the list, it was unusual to appear for just a single year. At the time, chef Heston Blumenthal’s 10-year-old restaurant was lauded for its highly innovative multi-course tasting menu, which included the now-retired snail porridge and egg and bacon ice cream. In 2017, Blumenthal was recognized by the World’s 50 Best Restaurants list for lifetime achievement. The restaurant is still going strong, with its current “Sensorium” tasting menu — billed as “a journey through the mind at the Fat Duck” — starting at £275 ($351).

The French Laundry, Yountville, California

Years at No. 1: 2004, 2003

Vital intel: Thomas Keller’s the French Laundry was the first American fine dining establishment to make it to the No. 1 spot on the list. The restaurant, which featured Keller’s French cooking in a picturesque Napa Valley setting, was also the first on the World’s 50 Best list to take the spot two years running. In the years since, the French Laundry remained stubbornly on list of back 50 restaurants, ranking no. 86 in 2018. It’s now, of course, off the list for good.

• The World’s 50 Best Restaurants List (and Its Flaws), Explained [E]

Overheard at the 2025 James Beard Awards

Sam Nelson — Thu, 19 Jun 2025 19:10:22 +0000

The Lyric Opera House during the 2025 James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards. | Daniel Boczarski/Getty Images for James Beard Foundation

A version of this post originally appeared on June 18, 2025, in Eater and Punch’s newsletter Pre Shift, a biweekly newsletter for the industry pro that sources first-person accounts from the bar and restaurant world. Subscribe now for more stories like this.

Along with the usual flood of tourists and locals enjoying the summer weather, downtown Chicago was packed this weekend due to both the “No Kings” march that brought tens of thousands of people to protest the Trump administration, and the parties and pop-ups tied to the 35th annual James Beard Awards.

The tension between resistance and revelry was felt throughout Monday’s celebration at the Lyric Opera in Chicago. Finalists shared their thoughts with Eater, discussing what the awards mean to them, ways the honors can continue to evolve, the lingering impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on hospitality industry, and the biggest challenges they face when it comes to making the best food— from housing, to staffing, to protecting their teams from ICE raids.

On the impact of the awards

“[After being nominated] we were busier right away. The response has been incredible. It’s such a good burst of business in January, at a time that’s classically slow, that we are mostly grateful for. It’s been amazing.” — Jeanie Janas Ritter, Bûcheron, Minneapolis (2025 winner, Best New Restaurant)

“We have so many people visiting Buffalo to just come hang out. Every Saturday, people fly in, eat barbecue, see [Niagara] Falls and fly back out. Our volume has increased probably like 45 times [since being nominated].” — Ryan Fernandez, Southern Junction Barbecue, Buffalo, New York (2025 finalist, Best Chef: New York State and 2024 finalist, Best Emerging Chef)

On how the awards could evolve

“I love that the [James Beard Awards] expanded and added these new categories for beverages. I think that it’s so important to continue to see that the front of house and the back of house work together. Of course, the chef is the star of the show. People go to restaurants to eat, but you’ve got to have something to drink too. I think continuing to expand on the front-of-house recognition would be a great call.” — Cassandra Felix, Daniel, New York City (2025 finalist, Outstanding Professional in Beverage Service)

“[I’d love to see an award that] celebrates general managers. I just hired Daniel Harrington and he has shifted the dynamic in such a beautiful way. I’m a very hands-on owner. I’m either there way too much or I’m traveling somewhere and he’s that anchor. He keeps me steady. He executes. No one really recognizes the GM. They make less money than everyone else and typically work way more hours, much like chefs. I think GMs could use a little bit of love.” — Julia Momosé, Kumiko, Chicago (2025 winner, Outstanding Bar)

“I love beverages and I’m a horrible cook. Like, I can’t cook for shit. I would love to see a little bit more separation of spirits, nonalcoholic, beers, and wine [categories] so there’s more representation of beverages just like we do the chefs.” — June Rodil, March, Houston (2025 finalist, Outstanding Wine and Other Beverages Program)

“I wonder if coffee [could] be an additional [James Beard] category. Coming from Portland, we have so much coffee, and Chicago does, too.” — Tommy Klus, Scotch Lodge, Portland, Oregon (2025 finalist, Outstanding Bar)

On staffing challenges

“We live on a tiny island in the middle of nowhere, so every single thing makes it a little harder. Employee housing is really, really tough for where we are. It’s kind of become an affluent area, and so finding places reasonably priced for our talented team to live is difficult.” — Jay Blackinton, Houlme, Orcas Island, Washington (2025 finalist, Best Chef: Northwest and Pacific)

“Where we are in the world, which is a pretty small community with 50,000 to 100,000 people, it’s very difficult to retain really strong talent. That’s always been the focus of our restaurant, to do exactly that, to retain and keep our people as long as possible. At first, our mission statement was to create well-paying, long-term hospitality jobs. After 2020, that has shifted to retaining [them]. We do care about quality of life with the way we operate the restaurants, with the way that the kitchens operate. We just try to make as pleasant an environment as possible.” — Josh Niernberg, Bin 707, Grand Junction, Colorado (2025 finalist, Outstanding Chef)

“Post-pandemic, a lot of people left the industry just because they got so stressed out during that crazy time. Finding good people [is my biggest challenge, but] there’s a lot of young folks that are coming up in the ranks that show a lot of initiative, so we’re hopeful on that.” — Daniel Castillo, Heritage Barbecue, San Juan Capistrano, California (2025 finalist, Best Chef: California)

“The big challenge that my restaurant is facing right now is staying motivated as we continue this absolute roller-coaster ride. It’s a good roller coaster, but keeping people focused is really hard. Keeping myself focused is really hard. The intellectual focus it requires to be a restaurant of our type is not something you wake up out of bed and have, so I think that’s the hard part. We’re supposed to be having more fun.” — Erling Wu-Bower, Maxwells Trading, Chicago (2025 finalist, Best Chef: Great Lakes)

On the state of the world

“We’re in Downtown LA and our restaurant has been completely surrounded with the protest — the peaceful protest — so it’s been a little bit challenging for the last two weeks. We can’t wait to get back open and welcome everyone in our community back to celebrate Los Angeles in general and hopefully a win for me at the James Beard Awards.” — Tobin Shea, Redbird, Los Angeles (2025 finalist, Outstanding Professional in Cocktail Service)

“The general public is really strained at this point. That affects small businesses, especially the restaurant businesses with such tight margins. The geopolitical climate, the state of the world, the unrest, I think is exponential right now in terms of its impact across the globe. It’s making everybody a little scared and I think that affects the way they spend their day, as it should. I think potentially [people are] afraid to spend because of all the uncertainty.” — Derek Wagner, Nicks on Broadway, Providence, Rhode Island (2025 finalist, Best Chef: Northeast)

“[The biggest challenge facing us] is the current state of the state, for sure. Immigration, keeping the team alive and safe. [The award nomination] definitely gives us a platform to talk about uncomfortable subjects. It definitely gives us the courage to keep going.” — Emmanuel Chavez, Tatemó, Houston (2025 finalist, Best Chef: Texas)

Disclosure: Some Vox Media staff members are part of the voting body for the James Beard Awards. Eater is partnering with the James Beard Foundation to livestream the awards in 2025. All editorial content is produced independently of the James Beard Foundation.

A First Timer’s Guide to a Fantastic Day in Greenville, South Carolina

Melody Pittman — Thu, 19 Jun 2025 16:23:00 +0000

From a food tour to local shopping, seeing a waterfall to a luxury hotel sleep, here is how to spend a perfect day in Greenville, South Carolina.

Is This Small Town Near Atlanta Georgia’s Best-Kept Secret for Outdoor Fun?

Em — Thu, 19 Jun 2025 13:12:05 +0000

Looking for a weekend escape packed with small-town charm and big outdoor energy? Say hello to Villa Rica, Georgia—where history, hiking, hole-in-ones, and handcrafted wine are just 35 minutes west of Atlanta.

Tucked off Interstate 20, Villa Rica is more than a charming Southern town—it’s your adventure basecamp for summer fun. Whether you’re hiking historic trails, sipping local wine, or panning for gold where prospectors once stood, Villa Rica delivers outdoor experiences with a twist of history.

Take a Walk Through Time at Clinton Nature Preserve

Clinton Nature Preserve is a 200-acre woodland wonder that is home to peaceful trails, a modern playground, and Carnes Cabin, a pre-Civil War homestead listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Catch a Concert or Event at The Mill Amphitheater

Head downtown to The Mill Amphitheater, Villa Rica’s 2,500-seat green-space venue for everything from classic car shows to comedy nights and live music. Plan your visit to Villa Rica around an event (trust us, the locals show up in style), or stop by just to soak in the good vibes and downtown charm.

(c)VillaRica.org

Get Your Gold Fix at Pine Mountain Gold Museum

Did you know Villa Rica was home to one of America’s first gold rushes? Travel back to 1826 at the Pine Mountain Gold Museum, the only gold museum in Georgia located on an actual mine site. Tour the grounds, explore the interactive exhibits, and pan for real gold and gemstones—perfect for kids and history lovers alike.

Tee Off in Style at Three Top Golf Courses

Villa Rica is home to three championship courses, each offering unique layouts and scenic challenges:

Mirror Lake Golf Club: Two full courses—Lake and Mountain—plus a cozy clubhouse for post-round bites.
The Frog Golf Club: A Tom Fazio-designed gem, this award-winning course is as beautiful as it is challenging. It’s also an Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary!
Fairfield Plantation Golf & Club: Designed by Willard Byrd, this course pairs Bentgrass greens and Bermuda fairways with year-round tee times.

Sip History at Little Vine Vineyards & Winery

Little Vine Vineyards is the first winery in west-central Georgia in more than 100 years—and it’s reclaiming the region’s pre-Prohibition legacy of fine wine. Family-owned and beautifully rustic, the vineyard grows bunch grapes on land that once rivaled California in wine production. Tastings run Friday to Sunday, often with live music on Saturdays. Sit, sip, and savor.

Explore Downtown

Downtown Villa Rica is walkable, welcoming, and full of surprises. Pop into local boutiques, grab coffee at a corner café, or browse antiques before heading back home. If you’re visiting on a weekend, check out the downtown event calendar—you never know when a festival, farmers market, or street party might pop up.

Where to Stay: Rest Easy or Retreat in Seclusion

Traveling with family?
The Holiday Inn Express is right off I-20 and offers convenience, comfort, and proximity to all of Villa Rica’s top spots. Spacious rooms, a solid breakfast, and easy highway access make this a great home base.

Looking for romance?
Escape to the Villa Rica Bed & Breakfast, a secluded 80-acre retreat designed just for couples. With themed rooms, serene ponds, and private woodland walks, this adults-only escape is ideal for reconnecting in nature—with no distractions.

Learn more at VIllaRica.org

Watch the 2025 James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards

Eater Staff — Wed, 18 Jun 2025 20:57:04 +0000

The James Beard Foundation Restaurant and Chef Awards took place on June 16, 2025, at the Lyric Opera of Chicago. This year’s ceremony for the Restaurant and Chef Awards crowned winners from the list of nominees announced on April 2 (that list was whittled down from semifinalists announced January 22), on the heels of the foundation’s Media Awards, which celebrated winners in books, broadcast, and journalism categories on Saturday, June 14.

Watch the James Beard Awards:

The broadcast livestream

Full livestream of the awards stage

For more real-time coverage of all the Beard Awards festivities, be sure to tune in to Eater’s Instagram for behind-the-scenes moments on the night of the awards, from the red carpet to the acceptance speeches to the food-filled after party.

Everything you need to know about the James Beard Awards

All the news, updates, and information about this year’s James Beard Awards Restaurant and Chef nominees. See the latest.

Additional photo illustration credits: Getty Images for the James Beard Foundation

An urban jungle: India’s must-see cities

Harry Harrison — Tue, 17 Jun 2025 23:03:22 +0000

From the ancient alleyways of Delhi to the serene backwaters of Kerala, the cities in India offer a tapestry of experiences waiting to be unravelled. In this diverse country, travellers have something new to see and do everywhere they go in India's best places to visit. Are you ready to experience India’s rich heritage and colourful urban landscapes? This ultimate guide takes you to India’s top cities, where you’ll come across must-see attractions, hidden gems, and other amazing things to do.

Delhi

Let’s kick off the list of India's best cities with the country's bustling capital. Delhi is a city of contrasts, where ancient history blends in perfectly with modern vibes. Don’t miss the iconic Red Fort, built by the storied Mughal emperor Shah Jahan. Outside the UNESCO site, which served as a key battleground in India’s First War of Independence, you can stroll around the age-old market of Chandni Chowk, where you can enjoy local treats like dilli-ki chaat (fried potatoes covered in spices) to your heart’s content.

Qutub Minar, the "victory tower," is a UNESCO World Heritage Site named after the founder of the Delhi Sultanate. Around the 73m (240ft) minaret are mosques and structures that can easily take half a day to explore.

See it for yourself on: Delhi Day Tour: Multi-Transport Highlights

Mumbai

The City of Dreams is a metropolis where Bollywood glamour meets everyday hustle, with tons of things to do. Visit Shree Siddhivinayak Temple or go for a stroll in Colaba, a tourist district teeming with gourmet dining options and designer boutiques. But don’t stop there. Tour the city in a rickshaw or enjoy its street food delicacies, such as spicy vada pav. You can also visit Sanjay Gandhi National Park outside the city or cool down in the Snow Kingdom amusement park.

When in Mumbai, take a short journey to the Mumbai Taj and the Gateway of India in the south. After taking a closer look at these landmarks, hop on a ferry to Elephanta Caves. At this UNESCO World Heritage Site, you can witness intricate carvings and sculptures dedicated to Hindu gods, mainly Lord Shiva.

See it for yourself on: Northern India: Riverside Safaris, Ancient Fortresses & The Taj Mahal

Varanasi

Without a doubt, Varanasi is the spiritual heart of India. It is one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, dating back more than 3,000 years. Start at the ghats of the Ganges (steps leading to the river) and see the mesmerizing ritual of Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat firsthand. For a quieter experience, take a morning boat ride to see the ghats glowing in the sunrise light. You can also wander through narrow alleys to uncover hidden gems, such as the quiet Sankat Mochan Temple or the obscure but beautiful Tulsi Manas Mandir. Don’t miss the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. It honours Lord Shiva and is one of the holiest sites for Hindus. You can participate in the temple’s rituals, including the Ganga Aarti. Inside the temple, you can make offerings of flowers, milk, and water at the sacred Shiva Lingam.

See it for yourself on: Essential India

Bengaluru (Bangalore)

Known as the Silicon Valley of India, Bengaluru offers a mix of tech-savvy culture, beautiful gardens, and historic architecture that many visitors adore. ISKCON Bangalore temple perfectly embodies these features. After you visit the temple, take a stroll in Lalbagh Botanical Garden and admire the majestic Bengaluru Palace. For something different, check out the arty vibe of Church Street and its quirky cafes and bookstores. Other worthy destinations are the Tipu Sultan's Palace and the National Gallery of Modern Art.

Agra

Agra is home to some of India’s most visited attractions, including the one and only Taj Mahal, a timeless wonder. This white marble giant never fails to impress and is exceptionally enjoyable to see at sunrise or sunset. Don't miss the nearby Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site, a magnificent red sandstone fortress that tells the story of India’s Mughal past.

See it for yourself on: Golden Triangle

Kolkata

Find old-world charm in the City of Joy. Kolkata is a feast for the senses, perfect if you love when every corner holds a piece of history. Start your journey with a visit to the Victoria Memorial and its grand white marble building. It’s not just a place of historical significance — it’s also a stunning sight to behold. Don't miss the lush gardens where you can unwind and catch your breath.

Afterward, head to Howrah Bridge, which connects the city to its eastern outskirts. The view from the bridge, especially at sunset, is a must-see in the city. For a more spiritual journey, make your way to Kalighat Temple. This holy place honours the goddess Kali. Another off-the-beaten-path treasure is the Marble Palace and its collection of antiques. If you're a bookworm, College Street is lined with old bookstores and stalls. It’s the largest book market in India, and you can find everything from rare antique books to modern bestsellers.

Jaipur

Jaipur, the gorgeous capital of Rajasthan, is a place where history comes alive in the shape of towering forts and royal palaces. Amber Fort is an absolute must-see. This majestic stronghold lies high on a hill overlooking Maota Lake. Roam its courtyards and halls while keeping an eye on the carvings that tell stories of the royal past. Don’t miss the Sheesh Mahal, the Mirror Palace, where thousands of small mirrors create a mind-boggling effect. No trip to Jaipur is complete without seeing Hawa Mahal, the Palace of Winds. This pink sandstone structure boasts hundreds of small windows and was designed to allow royal women to observe street life discreetly.

See it for yourself on: Delhi to Kathmandu Adventure

Ahmedabad

Nestled in the heart of Gujarat, Ahmedabad is a treasure trove of history, culture, and architecture. Sabarmati Ashram, the former residence of Mahatma Gandhi, is a must-visit for a peek into India’s independence movement. If you're an architecture enthusiast, the hand-carved, 15th-century Adalaj Stepwell awaits. Next, explore Sidi Saiyyed Mosque, which has an iconic Tree of Life stone lattice window that's a symbol of the city. Elsewhere, the Calico Museum of Textiles showcases India’s rich textile history through age-old fabrics and designs.

See it for yourself on: Uncover India: High Deserts & Markets

Chennai

Chennai is a mix of old and new, from temples to colonial history. Start with Marina Beach, India’s longest urban beach, and join early-morning walkers, local vendors, and beachgoers for an energetic start to the day. Head to Kapaleeshwarar Temple in Mylapore next. This Dravidian-style temple celebrates Lord Shiva with rich inscriptions and sculptures. For a touch of Chennai’s colonial history, you can also visit Fort St. George. The first English fortress in India is home to a museum of relics from the colonial era.

Another worthy destination is the Theosophical Society in Adyar. Once you make friends with the 450-year-old banyan tree sprawling across the gardens, it's easy to understand why this place is an oasis in the middle of the city. Add another layer of history to your stay by visiting Santhome Cathedral, a serene Gothic-style church.

Udaipur

The City of Lakes is a dreamscape of palaces, serene lakes, and romantic views. Start at the City Palace that overlooks Lake Pichola. Here, you can relish the complex’s architecture, courtyards, and views of the city. As you walk along its many passages and mosaics, you can feel the grandeur of the Rajput kings. For a touch of serenity, hop on a boat ride around Lake Pichola and glide across the water to get an up-close view of the marble gem called the Lake Palace.

Hopefully, you’re a big fan of lakes, because Jag Mandir is next up. This island palace is home to countless gardens and sculptures. At the end of the day, catch the sunset from Sajjangarh Monsoon Palace. The spectacular fortress sits high above the city, meaning you’ll get to see all the lakes and places you saw earlier in the day.

See it for yourself on: Rajasthan Adventure

Jodhpur

Known as the Blue City for its strikingly painted houses, Jodhpur is a visual feast and a hub of Rajasthan’s rich culture. Start at Mehrangarh Fort, perched high above the city, where you can explore the courtyards and museums and enjoy panoramic views of the blue-hued cityscape below. A short walk from the fort brings you to Jaswant Thada, an exquisite marble cenotaph dedicated to Maharaja Jaswant Singh II.

See it for yourself on: Rajasthan Adventure

Panaji

Panaji, the charming capital of Goa, is a delightful blend of colonial architecture, palm-fringed beaches, and laid-back vibes. Start your day at the iconic Basilica of Bom Jesus, home to the remains of St. Francis Xavier. Stroll through Fontainhas, the Latin Quarter, where the colourful Portuguese-style houses transport you to an earlier era. For a taste of Goan culture, visit the local markets or take a cruise on the Mandovi River.

The best Indian street foods you have to try

Kate Woodley — Tue, 17 Jun 2025 21:06:02 +0000

India ignites the senses. Amid the relentless honking and lively chaos, delicious aromas waft through the air. An estimated 10 million street vendors sell from their carts and stalls across the country, and it’s easy to see that Indian street food lies at the heart of the culture. Eating street food is one of the best things to do in India. Conversations flow and smiles are shared over a samosa or steaming cup of chai, something that will become a cherished part of your adventures in India, too.

So, what exactly is the best street food in India? People have many opinions on that, but here are our top street foods and drinks to try.

A brief history of Indian street food

The concept of street food in India dates back centuries, originating in bustling markets, caravanserais, and along ancient trade routes where vendors catered to travellers, merchants, and workers seeking quick and affordable meals. India's street food evolved with its history of migrations and invasions. Persian, Mughal, Portuguese, and British influences brought new ingredients and techniques, blending with regional flavours to create a variety of what's now considered traditional Indian cuisine. Each region of the country then developed its own street food specialties shaped by local produce, spices, and culinary traditions. Today, travelling and eating your way around India feels like a never-ending journey of delicious discovery.

Samosa

Did you know India’s street food superstar, the samosa, traces its roots to the Middle East and Central Asia, not India? While the fillings and flavours vary slightly by region, the essence of the samosa remains the same. Street vendors deep-fry samosas to perfection before filling them with potatoes, peas, lentils, or meat seasoned with spices like cumin, coriander, and garam masala. Each messy, satisfying crunch is as delightful as the burst of flavour that follows, making samosas irresistible wherever you find them.

Taste it on: Delhi Day Tour: Culinary Delights of India

Vada pav

Nicknamed the "Indian burger," vada pav has become a fan favourite for Mumbaikars since its invention in 1966. It's so popular that Mumbai has more than 20,000 vada pav stalls. This iconic vegetarian snack consists of spicy deep-fried potato dumplings (vada) placed inside a soft bread roll (pav), served with chutneys and green chillies for an extra kick.

Taste it on: Northern India: Riverside Safaris, Ancient Fortresses & The Taj Mahal

Bhel puri

If you’re in a rush but need a substantial snack, bhel puri is your perfect go-to Indian street food. This creative concoction is made of puffed rice, sev (crunchy chickpea noodles), and chopped vegetables like tomatoes, onions, and potatoes, all tossed together with tamarind chutney and spices. Don’t wait too long to dig in — enjoy bhel puri immediately to savour its signature crunch. If you let it sit, the crispy textures quickly transform into a soggy, though still flavourful, mix.

Poha

Poha is a popular breakfast dish across India and a great way to start the day. The dish typically involves cooking flattened rice with onions, potatoes, and green chillies and seasoning it with spices such as mustard seeds, turmeric, and curry leaves. The final touch is adding garnishes like fresh coriander, lemon juice, and sometimes roasted peanuts for added crunch. Known for being both filling and easy to digest, it’s the perfect fuel for a day of adventures in India.

Pav bhaji

Breaking off bite-sized pieces of these lightly toasted buttery buns and scooping up spiced vegetable curry are part of the joy of eating pav bhaji. It’s packed with hearty vegetables like potatoes, carrots, peas, and bell peppers, making for a nourishing meal or snack. Deceptively filling, this popular Indian street food from Mumbai will leave you rubbing your belly in satisfaction. You’ll do that a lot in the City of Dreams, one of the best places to visit in India, especially for street food.

Taste it on: Uncover India: High Deserts & Markets

Panipuri

Up for a challenge? Try fitting a whole panipuri in your mouth without making a mess! Biting into a panipuri, also known as golgappa in some regions, offers an exciting explosion of taste as the crispy shell breaks open, releasing a flood of spicy, sweet, and sour flavours. These golden hollow balls are usually stuffed with a spicy mixture of tamarind water, chickpeas, and chopped potatoes.

Tawa pulao

Tawa pulao sounds simple: rice, vegetables and pav bhaji masala. How mind-blowing can it be? Like all Indian street food, don’t underestimate it. This dish might become the best thing you’ve tried — at least until your next meal! Tawa pulao, which gets its name from the pan it's cooked in, is made by stir-frying pre-cooked rice with vegetables like onions, tomatoes, bell peppers, and peas, and a blend of spices. The critical ingredient is pav bhaji masala, a spice mix that gives the dish its signature taste.

Idli

These fluffy white circles give nothing away regarding their taste. Idlis are made from fermented rice and lentil batter, typically served with coconut chutney or sambar, a flavorful lentil soup with a spicy kick. A popular snack or breakfast in South India, these savoury steamed rice cakes offer tremendous gut-health benefits because of the fermentation process, exactly what you need to keep the dreaded "Delhi belly" away.

Taste it on: Best of Southern India

Dosa

No list of the best Indian street food would be complete without the iconic dosa. A traditional South Indian dish with roots that date back to the 5th century, it’s a crispy, golden crepe made from a fermented batter of rice and lentils. The fermentation process gives it a unique tang and a light, bubbly texture. Dosas are best enjoyed with your hands, so dig in — it’s part of the experience. Vendors serve them hot and often pair dosas with a variety of flavorful sides, such as spicy chutneys or a steaming bowl of sambar. Dosas are primarily eaten for breakfast, though they are served all day long.

Taste it on: India Encompassed

Gulab jamun

After all those savoury dishes, your sweet tooth probably craves dessert. Galub jamun is a classic Indian dessert made from deep-fried dough balls soaked in sugar syrup infused with cardamon, rose water, or saffron. They are favourites at festivals across India and South Asia, and once you pop one of these golden balls into your mouth, it's hard to stop!

Jalebi

The vibrant orange colour of jalebi instantly sparks curiosity in anyone passing by. Most people can't help but stop and try, often captivated by street vendors cooking up the dessert in a streaming hot pan of oil. Vendors become artists, creating intricate spirals and circular shapes with the batter. Once ready, jalebi are soaked in a sugar syrup flavoured with saffron or rose water. A guaranteed sugar rush, these crispy sweet treats are best enjoyed hot while standing on the side of the road as the chaos passes you by.

Peda

Originating in Uttar Pradesh’s Mathura, the birthplace of Krishna, pedas are more than a sweet treat. They are an essential part of Janmashtami, a Hindu festival celebrating the birth of the god Krishna. During the festival, they’re prepared as an offering, but you can eat them on any other day of the year, too. This rich, fudge-like sweet is made from mawa (evaporated milk solids), milk, sugar, and ghee, creating a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture, often infused with cardamom, saffron, or nuts. To finish, pedas are garnished with crunchy pistachios or almonds, adding an extra layer of flavour.

Lassi

A refreshing lassi is the perfect antidote for a burning belly after a spicy meal. Order with care because this traditional yogurt-based Indian drink comes in two distinct variations, each offering a different taste. Sweet lassi is a delightful blend of yogurt, sugar, and sometimes fruit: mango, bananas, strawberries, or whatever the vendor wants to throw in there. On the other hand, salty lassi is made with yogurt, salt, and a mix of spices, providing a tangy, savoury alternative. Try both and pick your favourite.

Taste it on: Essential India

Chai

It’s nearly impossible to walk down India’s streets without spotting someone sipping a cup of chai or hearing the chaiwallas (tea vendors) shouting "chai, chai, chai." In India, chai means tea. Drinking chai is so deeply embedded in Indian culture that you won’t be able to avoid it. No matter how busy your schedule is, there’s always time for a chai break! Masala chai is made by brewing black tea with milk, sugar, and fragrant spices, setting it apart from regular chai. After one sip, you’ll quickly see why Indians drink it all the time.

Taste it on: Rajasthan Adventure

The Best Zucchini Recipes, According to Eater Staff

Kat Thompson — Tue, 17 Jun 2025 19:48:10 +0000

Zucchini deserves respect: it’s one of summer’s most versatile ingredients. With cinnamon and cooking time, it tastes almost like an apple in cakes, sweet loafs, and alongside pork chops. It makes a great salad base when shaved long and served fresh. It’s also just as at home on the grill as burgers and chicken wings, and wears a sear beautifully. Whether you prefer zucchini sweet or savory, these are the recipes that Eater staffers will be making this summer.

Brined Grilled Zucchini with Mint Salsa Verde

Sasha Marx, Cook’s Illustrated

I’m a big fan of both wet- and dry-brining for meats, so I was intrigued by the idea of brining vegetables for additional flavor like they do in this Cook’s Illustrated recipe. And I’m always looking for new things to throw on the grill during the summer. I tried out this recipe for a poolside gathering, and the delicious zucchini managed to upstage the steak we were grilling. The brining technique really does add an additional dimension, making the seasoning pervade the zucchini better, and the salsa verde adds a bright kick to the equation. — Missy Frederick, cities director

Ultimate Zucchini Bread

Deb Perelman, Smitten Kitchen

I’ve loved Smitten Kitchen’s ultimate zucchini bread recipe since before I had kids, but it’s become even more of a go-to recently. With two toddlers, I’m in the sneak-veggies-into-everything phase of my life, and this is truly the ideal vehicle. Deb’s zucchini bread is as easy as it gets: It doesn’t require a mixer or any zucchini wringing, and comes together in essentially one bowl. It’s light and fluffy, and is definitely an appropriate breakfast food, even with its crispy sugar topping. Plus, it means I can offer my kids “cake” and know that they’re getting a little serving of greens along the way. — Stephanie Wu, editor-in-chief

Za’atar Zucchini Ramen Noodles

Hetty McKinnon, Tenderheart

Hetty McKinnon’s noodles come together lightning quick, with a simple sauce of sliced zucchini, za’atar, mint and cheese — or nutritional yeast if you want to make it vegan. It’s the perfect recipe for when you’re too hungry to start a big project and just want to make something boxed and instant, but realize you haven’t had a vegetable in three days and really need to remedy that. — Jaya Saxena, correspondent

Marinated Zucchini With Farro, Chickpeas and Parmesan

Sarah Jampel, NYT Cooking

This salad has become a reliable way to clear out the almost-overripe zucchini in my crisper every summer and is a total crowd pleaser for dinner parties (while secretly being very easy to pull together). You can even cook and marinate your browned zucchini a few hours before serving, letting them soak up more flavor in the fridge. To liven up the salad, shave some beautiful, fresh pieces of zucchini and Parmesan cheese with a vegetable peeler and don’t limit yourself on the fresh herbs; almost everything will work here. To upgrade the salad further, roast your chickpeas with lots of herbes de Provence, paprika, and olive oil in an oven or air fryer for about 15 minutes to create crispy, flavorful chickpeas that add a layer of crunch that is reminiscent of croutons. — Emily Venezky, editorial associate

Cinnamon Zucchini Coffee Cake

Dorothy Kern, Crazy for Crust
Although some people prefer zucchini breads and cakes where you “can’t even taste the zucchini!,” I actually love the subtle, vegetal bite an entire large zucchini brings to this coffee cake. Other perks of this recipe: the inviting scent of cinnamon wafting through your kitchen as the cake bakes, the plush crumb, and the general ease of pulling this all together in less than an hour. My only note about this recipe is that the crumb on the cake is less of a crumb and more of a brown sugar and butter syrup that seeps into the cake and creates delightful brown sugar swirls throughout. If you want a more traditional crumb, you’ll definitely need to incorporate additional flour into the crumb mixture portion and use cold, rather than melted, butter. — Kat Thompson, associate editor, Eater at Home

This is the best way to visit Machu Picchu, Peru

Prachi — Tue, 17 Jun 2025 17:46:57 +0000

In celebration of my blog turning 13 today (a teenager!), I decided to post about my favourite trip this year. I’m not a fan of the term “bucket list” but a few places certainly seem worthy of a once-in-a-lifetime trip. For me, it was the 15th-century Inca citadel, Machu Picchu in Peru. I was fascinated with it ever since I read about it — possibly in a Childcraft / Worldcraft book. Over time, work trips and holidays took me all over the world. But Peru (and for that matter, South America) never happened. Until this year. A message landed in my LinkedIn mailbox from Peru Travel ME inviting me on a press trip to Peru, and of course, to visit Machu Picchu. Obviously, I jumped at it!

As an Indian national, you don’t need a visa to travel to Peru if you have a valid US or Schengen visa. Since I had both, it made my trip easier. And in early April, I was finally on a long flight from Mumbai to Lima (via Paris). The 10-day trip covered Lima, the Amazon rainforest, and Sacred Valley, which included Cusco and Machu Picchu.

The Inca empire

Carved over hundreds of millennia by the Urubamba (sacred river in Quechua), the Sacred Valley has been continuously inhabited for more than 3,000 years. It was from here that the Incas ruled, establishing the largest empire in pre-Columbian America. It connected modern-day Peru to parts of Ecuador, Bolivia, Argentina, Colombia, and Chile. Actually, the term Inca is a title, meaning king or nobleman. The correct name of the empire is Tawantinsuyu or land of four parts. A large part of this empire was built by the 11th emperor, Pachacuti. Most archaeologists now believe that Machu Picchu was built as an estate for him. Referred to as the “Lost City of the Incas”, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site attracting more than half a million people annually.

How to reach Machu Picchu

I spent a couple of days exploring Cusco (the ancient capital of the Incas) and other attractions in the Sacred Valley. These included the stunning ruins of Ollantaytambo, the charming market of Pisac, and an alpaca farm near Cusco. I even learnt how to shake up Peru’s national cocktail, the pisco sour. And then, it was time to visit Machu Picchu itself! You need a ticket to enter the site, and there are a limited numbers available every day. So book your ticket way in advance, particularly in the high season (May to August).

There are two ways to reach Machu Picchu. If you’re the active, adventurous sort, there’s the Inca trail hike. This could range from several hours to several days, depending upon your starting point. Most visitors take the train, a much more comfortable and quicker option. Peru Rail runs several trains through the day from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Caliente, the town near Machu Picchu. I travelled on the Vistadome Observatory, which I believe is the best way to reach Machu Picchu.

Photo by Marco Guzmán

The Vistadome experience

I checked out early from Tambo del Inka, a gorgeous Luxury Collection property by Marriott. The Ollantaytambo train station was about 20km (30 mins) from the hotel and I made it in time for my 7.45 am departure. The indigo-blue train was just chugging into the station as I arrived, so I promptly boarded. My travel companions were Veronica Smulders (the owner of Peru Travel ME), our fab guide Juan, and Marco Guzmán, a pro photographer who shot many of the lovely photos in this post! By the way, the gorgeous jacket I’m wearing is made by a Peruvian brand, Cora (gifted to me by Veronica who is pictured below). Our outfit twinning is completely by chance!

Photo by Marco Guzmán

The coach had wide panoramic windows on the side as well as on the roof, offering immersive views throughout the journey.

Photo by Marco Guzmán

There was a beautifully decked out bar car adjacent to our coach, which opened onto an observation deck.

It was my favourite spot to catch stunning views of the verdant Andes and the gushing river that flowed alongside the train tracks. Another highlight of this train is the live entertainment. It was a festive atmosphere on board, listening to live traditional music and watching Peruvian folk dances — complete with costumes and masks!

We got a snack box (included in the ticket) with chips, an energy bar, and some sweets plus tea or coffee. However, I was more interested in sampling the famous Cusqueña beer that was available at the bar!

Where to eat near Machu Picchu

We arrived in Aguas Caliente, a cute little town with many cafes and restaurants where you can stop for a bite. Since we had a lunch booked later, we just wandered around the town while waiting for the bus that would take us up to Machu Picchu. The bus ride was also panoramic. As the road wound higher and higher, a light fog descended on the mountain tops. I had watched many videos online of people reaching Machu Picchu and facing a whiteout because of that notorious fog. So, I was praying hard all the way through!

Luckily, by the time we reached the top, it was bright and sunny. We had lunch at Tinkuy Restaurant, which is right by the entry gate of Machu Picchu. The restaurant is part of Sanctuary Lodge (a Belmond Hotel) and offers a delicious buffet for a reasonable price.

Exploring Machu Picchu

When you book your Machu Picchu ticket, you have to choose a circuit to follow. I recommend selecting circuit 1 or 2 as these are the panoramic ones that give you the iconic views. Of these, circuit 2 is the most popular and offers the classic experience. The other circuits merely go through the ruins and you won’t get that brag-worthy shot (like below).

What can I say about Machu Picchu that’s not already been said! It’s every bit as spectacular as the million photos you see online. But seeing it in person is a remarkable experience. I love old buildings — it’s fascinating seeing centuries-old structures still standing (even if in ruins), and touching the old stones made smooth by age… It’s enough to give me goosebumps (just like when I saw the Colosseum in Rome).

Photo by Marco Guzmán

Remember that there’s a fair bit of climbing up and down on each of the circuits. Most of it is on original Inca stone steps, but ramps and additional steps are available at some places. Dress sensibly and wear comfortable shoes. Sneakers with a good grip are fine, you don’t need hiking shoes. You’re allowed to carry a small backpack, so bring water, sunscreen, and a poncho/raincoat — it can rain any time! You may also want to carry some medicine to combat altitude sickness.

The return journey

After spending a couple of hours exploring Machu Picchu, we took the bus back to Aguas Caliente. And it started raining just as we stepped off — I was glad to have lugged my raincoat along! Since our train was a bit later, we popped into one of the cafes to stay dry and grab some coffee. The return train ride passed away in a blur. We got another snack box, and the train staff put on a fashion show, modeling exquisite alpaca garments. From Ollantaytambo, it was another 2-hour drive to Cusco where I checked into Palacio del Inka, another beautiful Luxury Collection hotel by Marriott. It was a long, tiring day — but absolutely worth it to have seen my dream destination!

Photo by Marco Guzmán

Disclosure: My trip was hosted by Peru Travel ME, views my own.

The post This is the best way to visit Machu Picchu, Peru appeared first on Deliciously Directionless.

Po Toi Island and Stanley Hong Kong

Jennifer Che — Tue, 17 Jun 2025 16:05:41 +0000

Po Toi Island (蒲苔島) is the southernmost island off of Hong Kong Island. This off-the-beaten-path island is a great destination for a half day outing while in Hong Kong. Not only does it have gorgeous crystal blue waters and really interesting rock formations, there are ancient rock carvings, a curious abandoned house from the 1930's, and an old school noodle shop serving a hyper local version of Hong Kong style noodles using the locally harvested seaweed.

Po Toi Island is harder to access because the public ferry from Stanley or Aberdeen only runs on certain days of the week. On Saturdays there are only two times, 10:30AM and 1:30AM, and the last return boat leaves at 4PM. We showed up early (around 10AM?) to try an beat the crowds. I guess it didn't work and everyone is already in line, haha . . . .

Thankfully we made it onto the ferry (it's quite large, actually).

The views on the way to Po Toi Island are quite interesting. Check out these huge satellites!

And this island that is completely white rock!

Approaching Po Toi Island.

There was a time when Po Toi Island had over a thousand fishermen and farmers living there. However, as time went by, the younger generation moved into the city, and the population on the island dwindled down to

It is fascinating to see the houses that families just abandoned. Some have been here for close to a hundred years, and yet you can still peer in and see evidence of daily life.

Old Mansion Family Mo

The Old Mansion of Family Mo belongs to one of the few families known to have settled here about a century ago. This particular house was built in the 1930's but has long been abandoned.

You can walk around and explore the different rooms.

The Paths Around the Island are Easy to Navigate

The hiking trails around the island are extremely well marked. It will take several hours to explore everything, and we ended up not having enough time to explore the entire island during our half day trip. Still, we were able to see a majority of the recommended sites.

Ancient Rock Carvings over 3000 years Old!

Rock carvings were discovered in the 1960's, and are believed to be over 3000 years old. It's interesting, but we had a harder time seeing the patterns when we stood close to the rock, but could see it better when we stepped back a few feet.

We only encountered one restaurant on the island . . .

You're bound to get hungry after hiking, but the food options are quite limited. The one restaurant that serves hikers on weekends basically only serves variations on one main dish.

We both got a bowl of ramen topped with luncheon meat, an egg, and locally harvested seaweed.

I even bought a couple packs to take back home with me, sort of a hyper-local souvenir.

Off to See Cool Rock Formations!

Po Toi has a lot of cool rock formations, and part of the fun of this hike is exploring the island and identifying all of them.

Malaysia Toppled China as Thailand’s Top Tourist Source

WILSON NG — Mon, 16 Jun 2025 12:06:25 +0000

Malaysia Toppled China as Thailand’s Top Tourist Source

For years, China held the undisputed crown as Thailand’s largest source of international visitors. The sheer volume of Chinese tourists was a key driver of the Thai economy, shaping everything from tour packages to hotel development. To boost Chinese tourists, Thailand introduced VISA Free entry after pandemic. However, a seismic shift has occurred in the Land of Smiles, with Malaysia now surpassing China to claim the top spot.

Recent data from Thailand’s Ministry of Tourism and Sports reveals that as of early June 2025, over 2.04 million Malaysian visitors have flocked to Thailand this year, edging out China’s 2.02 million. This marks the first time in 13 years that Malaysia has held this position, a truly remarkable turn of events. Malaysia is back to number one top tourist to Thailand

Why the Shift? Unpacking the Malaysian Surge and Chinese Dip

Several factors are contributing to this fascinating realignment:

The Malaysian Advantages:

Proximity and Accessibility: Malaysia shares a long land border with Thailand, making cross-border travel incredibly easy and affordable. Many Malaysians opt for short getaways, especially to southern Thai provinces like Songkhla and Hat Yai, which are easily accessible by car or bus.
Frequent Short Trips: Malaysian tourists often make multiple short trips to Thailand throughout the year, driven by long weekends, school holidays, and the lure of quick, budget-friendly escapes.
Favorable Exchange Rates: The Malaysian Ringgit’s performance against the Thai Baht can influence travel decisions, making Thailand a more attractive and affordable destination for Malaysian travelers.
“Value for Money” Perception: Thailand continues to offer a diverse range of experiences – from bustling city life to serene beaches and delectable street food – at prices that are generally appealing to Malaysian tourists.
Ease of Entry: Simplification of immigration processes, including the removal of the TM.6 immigration form at land checkpoints, has further streamlined travel for Malaysians.
Cultural and Culinary Connections: Shared cultural nuances and the widespread availability of halal food make Thailand a comfortable and welcoming destination for many Malaysians.

The Chinese Conundrum:

Safety Concerns and Media Coverage: High-profile incidents, including a kidnapping case involving a Chinese actor and widespread fears of scams and other crimes, have significantly impacted Chinese traveler confidence in Thailand. Negative media portrayals have amplified these concerns.
Economic Headwinds in China: Broader economic pressures within China are affecting outbound travel decisions, with consumers becoming more cautious about discretionary spending, including international travel.
Shift Towards Domestic Tourism: Similar to many countries, China has seen a growing trend of domestic tourism, with more Chinese opting to explore their own vast country rather than venturing abroad.
Post-Pandemic Recovery: While China was a significant market pre-pandemic, its recovery in terms of outbound tourism has been slower and more uneven compared to other markets.

Looking Ahead

While Malaysia’s ascent as Thailand’s top tourist source is a clear indicator of current trends, the tourism landscape is constantly evolving. Thailand’s continued focus on enhancing travel convenience, diversifying its offerings, and ensuring a safe and welcoming environment will be crucial in maintaining its position as a global tourism powerhouse. The story of Malaysia surpassing China is a statement on how Malaysians love to travel to Thailand all year long.

The post Malaysia Toppled China as Thailand’s Top Tourist Source appeared first on PlacesAndFoods.

Fei Fei Crab Arkadia Desa Park City

WILSON NG — Mon, 16 Jun 2025 06:51:52 +0000

Fei Fei Crab Arkadia Desa Park City

This is Fei Fei Crab Arkadia Desa Park City, their 12th and latest outlet in Malaysia. This is newly opened, opened since last week.

Let’s start with Stir Fried Kailan with Crab Meat Seafood (RM 58). This is a twin dish, stir fried kalian with crab meat and seafood with crispy shredded kalian. The stir fried seafood is flavourful while the shredded kailan is crispy.

Thailand Signature crab Meat Fried Rice RM 38.80. The fried rice comes with wok hei and crab meat just like in Thailand. The chili sauce is sweet and spicy, added flavour to the delicious fried rice.

Pork Knuckles and Ribs RM 128 (S)

This is twin dish with crispy pork knuckles and savoury pork ribs! The pork knuckle is deep fried to perfection, the pork ribs is sweet and yummy.

Signature Hamsap Crab – Creamy Salted Egg Crab

2 Crabs – XXL (RM 268)

They only use Indonesian mud crab as it is meaty. The hamsap sauce is savoury with butter salted egg sauce and this is the top seller. Didn’t take a lot of video as I am busy eating crab.

If you order 2 crabs, you will get a plate of Steamed prawns for free! The prawns are very fresh and complements well with the chili. According to the owner, many customers are delighted for these free steamed prawns.

无壳蟹No Shell Crab Kam Heong Sauce with Mantao Rm128

Their latest dish, No shell crab with Kam Heong sauce (sauce of your choice) and mantao. The crabs are deshelled and cooked with your preferred sauce and complement with fried mantao. My parents love this.

The Fei Fei Crab Arkadia Desa Park City is their 12^th outlet and the food is good as usual. We always love their fresh mud crabs and their other dishes too! We will come back again for more!

The post Fei Fei Crab Arkadia Desa Park City appeared first on PlacesAndFoods.

Wakaran Wan Chai

Jennifer Che — Sun, 15 Jun 2025 14:29:05 +0000

Tucked away on Ship Street in Wan Chai, Wakaran is a casual, upbeat restaurant that incorporates a fusion of Japanese, Chinese, and Western influences. The restaurant's name, "WA-KA-RAN" (和華蘭), is really a shortened form of the term "wakaranai", which means "I don't understand" in Japanese. Their rationale is, "who are we to tell anybody what they should really know about food?" After all, they strongly encourages the utmost creativity when it comes to their version of "Modern Asian", melding multiple cuisines together in all sorts of different ways.

Small Plates

From the small plates section, one of the signature dishes is Truffle Sesame Doughnut . Inspired by the deep fried glutinous rice sesame balls you see in Cantonese restaurants, Wakaran's version is topped with shaved comte cheese and black tuffle: a savory version if you will.

Another small plate that's delicious is the "K.F.C." a 50/50 Sichuan mala pepper and yuzu honey fried chicken. It's delicious, and for HK98 you get around 4-5 pieces.

Pomelo salad

Maki Our Way

One of my favorite dishes at the restaurant is their maki "tacos." They take the Korean concept of the crispy seaweed and bend it into a "shell" that is taco shaped. THEN, they add Japanese ingredients on top, such as otoro, wagyu steak and uni, salmon with sriracha mayo, and more. These bites are always delicious, and I really enjoy them!

Chargrilled Otoro Myoga Garlic Soy (HK138)

Wagyu & Uni Sand Ginger Soy (HK188)

Spicy Diced Salmon Sriracha Mayo (HK68)

Spicy Diced Salmon Sriracha Mayo on a black charcoal bread

shaved salted duck egg + tuna on a maki "crisp".

From the Grill

What's available on the grill changes depending on the season. You could have classic yakitori type dishes, grilled vegetables, or various types of grilled meat (like char siu!).

We really enjoyed the grilled oyster mushrooms, and ordered them more than once.

The yakitori is solid (we gor a chicken and scallion yakitori), though I'm still partial to Yardbird.

Whole Roasted Dry-Aged “Ma Yau” Kombu Sauce (Limited Daily - HK288)

Larger Plates

The Whole Smoked Pigeon is quite a special dish, and I can see why they limit the numbers. It seem to be quite labor-intensive to prepare this dish! The pigeon has a perfectly crispy skin, and will be served alongside some seasonal vegetables, such as kale in our case (Limited Daily) HK248.

"Sweet" (Dessert)

Everybody highly recommends trying the Ginger Rice Bomb Dumplings, which should really be eaten in one bite. It's a spherified burst of warm sweet ginger goodness when you bite into the ball. It's fun, and if you like ginger, it's pretty tasty.

Initial Thoughts - Wakaran Wan Chai Hong Kong

I'm a fan. I have always loved East Asian cuisines, and I like the creativity with which the team has put together different dishes here. The maki tacos are awesome; the grilled dishes are by and large solid tasty. Other dishes, like the pigeon, are surprisingly elegant. All in all, we've come back here multiple times and will continue to do so!

Wakaran Wan Chai Hong Kong
Shop B, G/F, Pinnacle Building
9 Ship Street, Wan Chai

Ruam Thai Wan Chai Hong Kong
Motorino Hong Kong - Neapolitan style pizza from New York
Bo Innovation Hong Kong - 3 Michelin Stars - NOW 2 Michelin Stars
22 Ships Wan Chai - Spanish Tapas {HONG KONG} NOW CLOSED

The post Wakaran Wan Chai appeared first on Tiny Urban Kitchen.

Croatia’s Stars, Part 4: Return to Boškinac

Florian — Sat, 14 Jun 2025 21:33:51 +0000

The Boškinac restaurant on the island of Pag showcases chef Matija Bregeš's Michelin-starred cuisine. The "Essence of the Island" menu features inventive dishes highlighting local flavors, all presented beautifully. This remarkable dining experience is highly recommended.

The post Croatia’s Stars, Part 4: Return to Boškinac first appeared on Food Perestroika.

GV Food & Drink

Dunkin’ Is Releasing a New Summer Munchkins Bucket—And It’s Perfect for the Beach!

What is the new Dunkin’ summer bucket?

How much does the Summer Munchkins Bucket cost?

When will it be available?

What are Dunkin’ fans saying about this summer treat?

RELATED:

Why trust us

Sources:

Connor Reid Named Supervising Producer of Eater Video Team

At Houston’s First LGBTQ+ Senior Center, Lunchtime Is for Building Community

Spice Up Your Summer With Hot Dishes at These 13 Chicago Spots

What Should You Do if ICE Comes to Your Restaurant?

Know the difference between public and private spaces

Make sure staff knows who is authorized to let ICE in

Know the difference between a judicial warrant and an administrative warrant

Don’t accidentally communicate

Document everything

Know what you’re up against

7 Essential Tips for Exploring Kuala Lumpur Jakarta Route

7 Essential Tips for Exploring Kuala Lumpur Jakarta Route

Travel Smarter on the Kuala Lumpur Jakarta Route

1. Book Your Flight Ahead of Time

2. Choose a Reliable Airline for Peace of Mind

3. Travel During Off-Peak Hours

4. Keep Your Travel Documents Ready

5. Pack Light for Short Trips

6. Stay Updated on Flight Schedules

7. Plan Your Transport on Arrival

Conclusion

If You See a Red Tag on an Item at Aldi, This Is What It Means

What does it mean if you see a red price tag at Aldi?

How do you get the discount?

How much of a discount can you expect?

What does Aldi do with unsold food?

RELATED:

About the experts

Why trust us

Sources:

Weekend Trip to Nanjing China

Ancient Wall in Nanjing

Niushou Mountain

Food

Maido is the 2025 World’s Best Restaurant

Overheard at the 2025 James Beard Awards

On the impact of the awards

On how the awards could evolve

On staffing challenges

On the state of the world

A First Timer’s Guide to a Fantastic Day in Greenville, South Carolina

Is This Small Town Near Atlanta Georgia’s Best-Kept Secret for Outdoor Fun?

Take a Walk Through Time at Clinton Nature Preserve

Catch a Concert or Event at The Mill Amphitheater

Get Your Gold Fix at Pine Mountain Gold Museum

Tee Off in Style at Three Top Golf Courses

Sip History at Little Vine Vineyards & Winery

Explore Downtown

Where to Stay: Rest Easy or Retreat in Seclusion

Watch the 2025 James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards

Watch the James Beard Awards:

The broadcast livestream

Full livestream of the awards stage

Everything you need to know about the James Beard Awards

An urban jungle: India’s must-see cities

Delhi

Mumbai

Varanasi

Bengaluru (Bangalore)

Agra

Kolkata

Jaipur

Ahmedabad

Chennai

Udaipur

Jodhpur

Panaji

The best Indian street foods you have to try

A brief history of Indian street food

Samosa

Vada pav