How to Spend a Perfect Food Weekend in Baltimore

Spend a weekend biking around historic neighborhoods, treasure hunting in vintage shops on the Avenue and exploring the city's diverse food scene

Baltimore may be best known for its picturesque Inner Harbor—home to the popular National Aquarium—and crustacean bounty, but while the sealife is impressive and there's nothing quite like cracking into a dozen Maryland Blue crabs liberally sprinkled with spicy Old Bay, there's so much more to Charm City. Spend a weekend biking around historic neighborhoods, treasure hunting in vintage shops on the Avenue and exploring the city's diverse food scene, from the newest food hall housed in an old auto body shop to small-batch ice cream made in locally-inspired flavors, and of course, plenty of fresh seafood.

Day 1

Courtesy of Visit Baltimore

If you arrive by train—a quick and easy trip from New York City, Philadelphia, or D.C.—The Ivy's antique London taxi cab will meet you at the station. Check into the 19th-century mansion situated in the historic Mount Vernon neighborhood, restored to its original splendor with eighteen plush guestrooms and suites, a spa, conservatory and cozy library. The country's only highly-inclusive urban hotel, your stay comes with extras like afternoon tea service, a minibar stocked with goodies like locally made kombucha and caramels, and what may be the best hotel breakfast of your life.

Before sightseeing, start with lunch at the Mount Vernon Marketplace, located less than a mile from the hotel. The former warehouse was transformed into a fun food hall with stalls selling everything from freshly-shucked local oysters to vegan soups and ramen. After lunch, pull up a stool at Taps Fill Station, where the entire menu of beer, wine, mead, olive oil and more is on draft. Order a kombucha or nitro cold-brew coffee before walking a few blocks to the George Peabody Library. The collection of 19th-century research materials is part Johns Hopkins University and sadly, isn't meant for public book perusing, but it's worth a stop in to gape at the stunning architecture—thought to be one of the most beautiful libraries in the world with its five tiers of balconies, ornate columns and glass skylight ceiling. Across the street find the Walters Art Museum. With free entry, the museum is home to a millennia-spanning collection that includes ancient Greek sculptures, 19th-cen tury European modernist masterpieces and a notable collection of Fabergé eggs. Afterward check out Mount Vernon's Washington Monument, the first memorial honoring the founding father that dates back to 1732, and climb the spiral staircase inside for a lofty view of central Baltimore. On the walk back to the hotel, stop into all-day café Dooby's for one of their house-baked cookies in flavors like Fruity Pebble marshmallow or matcha with white chocolate chips.

Back at the Ivy, mix yourself a drink in the Mansion Bar before sitting down to dinner at Magdalena, the hotel's on-site restaurant. Chef Mark Levy's French-inspired dishes like butter poached lobster and seared foie gras feel extra special in the cozy, candlelit dining rooms, including one situated in the home's former treasury. Don't miss dessert from German pastry chef Hans-Jurgen Sund, including the authentic and satisfying apple strudel.

Day 2

Courtesy of Visit Baltimore

Start your day at the Ivy's restaurant again, only this time for the epic breakfast. The multi-course feast features house smoked salmon, grapefruit brulée and stacks of lemon souffle pancakes drizzled with blueberry compote, among other made-to-order delights. Work off the morning meal with a guided bike tour of the city's waterfront with Light Street Cycles, passing historic Fort McHenry, quaint Fell's Point and other riverfront neighborhoods. On the way back pedal past Vaccaro's to pick up a cannoli at the sixty-one year-old Little Italy institution.

After the twelve mile tour, head north to the Remington neighborhood to refuel at R. House. The recently opened food hall occupies an airy, industrial-inspired space that was once an auto body shop and is now home to ten chef-driven stalls (and one rotating pop-up) selling Korean barbecue, Venezuelan Arepas, poke bowls and more. On a sunny day, take your food to one of the communal tables outside on the wrap around patio. From there, head north to Hampden, where you'll find 36th street—also known as the Avenue—lined with independent shop loaded with character. There are kitschy gift shops and vintage boutiques selling vinyl records and brightly colored costume jewelry, Atomic Books, where Baltimore's own John Waters receives fan mail, and Ma Petite Shoe—a shoe shop that also specializes in artisan-made chocolates from around the world. Pick up a few beautifully-wrapped bars to take home, and end your visit to the Avenue at The Charmery for a scoop of ice cream in seasona lly-changing flavors like Old Bay caramel and Berger Cookies and Cream, made with the beloved chocolate frosted cookies from a local bakery.

Courtesy of Visit Baltimore

A few minutes away by car is the friendly Union Craft Brewing, where you can take a tour of the facility before sampling from the brewed-on-site beer. Try a Duckpin Pale Ale, or, in the summer months, the Old Pro Tee Time—a tart, refreshing gose made with botanicals and fruit. Fill a crowler with your favorite brew to take home, the oversized cans are easily packable. For dinner, try the lively Bar Vasquez for an Argentinian feast, with empanadas de queso stuffed with a mix of housemade ricotta and other cheeses, bright ceviche, and a robust steak menu featuring various cuts flown in from Uruguay—all of which pairs well with a glass of red wine and the nightly live music.

Day 3

Courtesy of Visit Baltimore

There are plenty of worthy breakfast destinations in Baltimore, including the nearby Dooby's and Miss Shirley's Café, a city institution, but fill up on the Ivy's memorable meal while you can, and then head to the American Visionary Art Museum. This unique museum houses an intriguing and delightful collection of pieces, all by self-taught artists. The building itself is also a work of art, covered in dazzling mirror, glass and china, created as part of a mosaic apprentice program for at-risk youth. While the permanent collection is definitely worth a look, the rotating exhibition is always a must-see, including this year's The Great Mystery Show, featuring pieces inspired by dreams, religion, outer space, and more. Stop by the museum's award-winning gift shop before you go for art books and other quirky trinkets.

Courtesy of Visit Baltimore

To cap off your weekend in Charm City, board the Baltimore Water Taxi, which makes stops at several waterfront neighborhoods, like Locust Point and Harbor East, where you'll find the Loch Bar at the Four Season's Hotel. From your perch on the plush outdoor patio, take in sweeping views of the Inner Harbor while snacking on lobster rolls, crabcakes, and anything from the expansive raw bar. Paired with a glass of Champagne or local craft beer, it's the perfect finale to your visit to Baltimore.

Source: How to Spend a Perfect Food Weekend in Baltimore

Swiss-Belhotel Seef Bahrain Among Finalists for 2018 Bahrain Food & Travel Awards

Laurent A. Voivenel, Senior Vice President, Operations and Development for the Middle East, Africa and India, Swiss-Belhotel International

Two-time winner of the Best 4-Star Hotel in the GCC Food and Travel Awards, Swiss-Belhotel Seef Bahrain has once again been nominated among the finalists for the coveted 2018 Bahrain Food and Travel Awards. The hotel has been selected in two categories 'Best 4-Star Hotel' and 'Best All Day Casual Restaurant' for Swiss-Café.

Congratulating the team, Laurent A. Voivenel, Senior Vice President, Operations and Development for the Middle East, Africa and India, Swiss-Belhotel International, said, "Swiss-Belhotel Seef Bahrain is one of our flagship hotels in the region that has established a tremendous reputation in the Kingdom in terms of its distinctive service standards and high quality of product. We are extremely proud of the prestigious industry accolades that the hotel has been consistently recognized with. The credit for this goes to our fantastic team led by General Manager Herve Peyre who is also the Area General Manager for the group in Bahrain where we have extensive development in progress. We are confident their hard work and dedication will once again pay off. Our objective is to deliver the most memorable experiences and excellent value to our guests and awards such as these motivate us to do better." 

Located in Bahrain's central business and commercial district only 20 minutes' drive from Bahrain International Airport, Swiss-Belhotel Seef Bahrain provides guests with superior facilities and standards of service. The 28-storeys tall hotel boasts a superb choice of 144 contemporary and spacious guestrooms and suites offering breath-taking sea and city views. The hotel is fully equipped to meet the needs of modern business and leisure travellers with an array of facilities and unique features including specialty dining venues, extensive banquet and conference facilities equipped with state-of-the-art technology, a fabulous fitness centre as well as outdoor swimming pool and spa. 

Source: Swiss-Belhotel Seef Bahrain Among Finalists for 2018 Bahrain Food & Travel Awards

Delicious New Food Finds Across Canada From Hometown Hockey’s Tara Slone

Each week, Tara Slone, co-host of Rogers Hometown Hockey, stops in a different Canadian town or city in search of the country's most compelling hockey stories. She also keeps an eye out for the best places to eat wherever she goes. Here are her picks from the first four stops on the tour: Niagara Falls, Haliburton, Truro, and Charlottetown. Check back in with this post to find out where Tara ate in Kingston, Winnipeg, Kamloops and beyond, as Hometown Hockey continues through the NHL season.1 of 4
Source: Delicious New Food Finds Across Canada From Hometown Hockey's Tara Slone

Want to run a restaurant? Cleveland chefs sought for new Ohio City food hall

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Calling all Cleveland chefs: Have you always wanted to own your own restaurant, but didn't have the capital? Here's a chance to run your own kitchen, relatively risk-free.

The Galley Group, founded in Pittsburgh two years ago, is bringing its restaurant-incubator concept to Cleveland next year, with space for four aspiring chef-owners. The eatery - it doesn't have a name yet - will be part of the Quarter development, under construction at the corner of Detroit Avenue and W. 25th Street in Ohio City.

It will occupy the first floor of the historic Forest City Savings and Trust Building, built in 1890s and currently occupied by Massimo da Milano, which will close later this month.

The building is being reconfigured with four small kitchens and communal seating space for about 250. The four-in-one food hall is expected to open in late summer.

The concept works like this:

Chefs are given their own small kitchens, rent free, for one year. They create their own menu, hire their own staff, and supply small equipment.

There's a bar and communal dining area for all four mini-restaurants. Visitors order at the counter and their food is brought to them.

Chefs share 30 percent of their revenue with the Galley Group, which manages and markets the complex.

Tyler Benson and Ben Mantica, co-founders of the Galley Group, operate two restaurant incubators in Pittsburgh, the Smallman Galley in the Strip District and the Federal Galley in North Side. Cleveland will be their third location, with a fourth set to open later in 2018 in downtown Detroit.

Mantica, a Pittsburgh native, said the company is looking to grow in relatively inexpensive cities on the upswing. "The trajectory of Pittsburgh is pretty exciting," he said. "We see the same thing in Cleveland."

He said they were particularly interested in the Ohio City neighborhood - already established as a food and beer hub, with a young and growing population, plus the West Side Market. "People there are already excited about local food and local beer," he said.

Interested chefs have until Feb. 1 to apply (see galleygrp.com). Finalists will be invited to present their ideas, and some menu items, to a panel of industry insiders.

Applicants don't need to be from Northeast Ohio to apply, but "we'd like to have as many people from Cleveland as possible," said Benson. Former Clevelanders, working elsewhere, are also encouraged to participate.

"It's a low-risk opportunity to come back to your hometown," said Mantica.

The project is being developed by the Snavely Group, based in Chagrin Falls, and is part of a $60 million redevelopment of several blocks at the busy West Side intersection. A complex with 194 apartments is under construction across the street.

Also part of the development: A West Side outpost of the Music Settlement, a second location for The Grocery, and a co-working space called the Beauty Shoppe, which also is headquartered in Pittsburgh.

The Beauty Shoppe and the restaurant incubator will be located in adjacent spaces, and should complement each other, said Peter L. Snavely Jr., vice president of development for the Snavely Group.

"When you combine these two, it creates a unique working and playing experience," he said. "I think Ohio City is the perfect neighborhood for this concept."

Plus, he said, "It solves the age-old battle of where you should go to eat. You've got four options in one."

Source: Want to run a restaurant? Cleveland chefs sought for new Ohio City food hall

This week in food and drink: Gift guides

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This week in food and drink: Gift guides

Food and beer pros across the USA TODAY Network share locally made gifts for the holidays.

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USA TODAY Network Published 10:13 a.m. ET Dec. 16, 2017

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Yummy Bazaar curates gourmet goods from around the world, with boxes like Spices & Seasonings ($53.25) featuring products from France and Italy. Order at yummybazaar.com.(Photo: courtesy of Yummy Bazaar)

Food and beverage pros from across the USA TODAY Network have been sharing tasty gift ideas from their regions and states all season. This week's top tweets date back to November to round up giving inspiration from Arizona to Michigan. Wrap up that holiday shopping with these tastes of place.

 

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Source: This week in food and drink: Gift guides

Travel Food Vlogger Films Cotton Candy Art in Eastern Asia

This food vlogger captured a street food vendor creating cotton candy animals! The vendor used a variety of colored sugars to create the pieces of edible art!The channel owner runs a food vlog where she films weird and wonderful food creations from around the world, including ice cream burritos in Taiwan and black crepes in Bangkok. Credit: Travel Thirsty via Storyful

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Source: Travel Food Vlogger Films Cotton Candy Art in Eastern Asia

From food to decorations, here’s how to protect your furry friends from holiday dangers

Holiday food, decorations, parties and travel all pose potential threats to pets.

But with a little planning, you can celebrate and take precautions to keep dogs and cats safe.

Holiday food

Many favorite holiday treats can be dangerous to pets. The list is long, and includes:

Alcohol can cause respiratory failure, central nervous system depression, abnormal blood acidity,  coma and death

Chocolate, coffee and caffeine can cause abnormal heart rhythm, seizures and death

Onions, garlic and chives can cause red blood cell damage

Raisins and grapes can cause kidney failure and death

Sweets and baked goods, especially if made with the artificial sweetener xylitol, can cause liver failure and death

Nuts (macadamias, almonds, pecans and walnuts) as well as fatty meats, gravy and turkey skin can cause vomiting, diarrhea and potentially deadly pancreatitis

Yeast dough can cause potentially deadly stomach bloat

Your best bet: Keep all of them out of reach from curious cats and dogs, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association. Also caution friends and family, since guests might not realize how dangerous their innocent treat can be.

Worried pets might have ingested something they shouldn't? Keep your veterinarian's phone number on your speed dial. In an emergency, it pays to know the location and hours of the closest emergency animal clinic. The ASPCA also provides a poison control hotline at 888-426-4435; download the organization's new mobile app for instant access to potentially life-saving information.

Decorations

The most dangerous decoration is the biggest: your Christmas tree. Securely anchor your tree to ensure it won't tip and fall, especially if you've got a cat who sees it as a new climbing challenge. Cover water containers for live trees to prevent pets from drinking. Water can contain fertilizer or other residue from any chemicals that trees were treated with; additives put in the water to help keep the tree fresh also can be harmful. Ornaments and electric light cords can prove irresistible to puppies who love to chew. Cats and kittens are captivated by tinsel, which they love to bat around and carry in their mouths. Unfortunately, swallowing even a small bit can lead to an obstructed digestive tract, the ASPCA warns.

Other dangerous plants include poinsettias, mistletoe and holly. And, it should go without saying, but don't leave lighted candles unattended with pets around.

Parties

Even if your pets are friendly, consider putting them in a secure room during holiday festivities. This will reduce the risk they are fed something dangerous and prevent escape attempts as guests arrive or depart.

Travel

No room for your dog at grandma's house? Consider whether pets will be happier at home with a pet sitter or at kennel where they can play with other dogs. To find a reliable pet sitter, visit petsitters.org. To find a boarding facility, start with recommendations from friends or your veterinarian. You can also check with the Better Business Bureau or Colorado's licensing board to see if the kennel you're considering has any complaints on file.

Planning to hit the road with your pet? Get a health certificate from your veterinarian to show your pet is in good health. Don't know where to stay? GoPetFriendly.com is a handy resource to find pet-friendly hotels, restaurants and attractions.

If you haven't taken a road trip with your dog, consider taking a few shorter rides around town to make sure you don't have a nervous traveler or one who suffers from motion sickness. To make your trip more pleasant, consider bringing your dog's food and some water from home, as well as  favorite toys or blankets. Take frequent breaks so your dog can stretch his legs and go potty.

Source: From food to decorations, here's how to protect your furry friends from holiday dangers

Where to find good vegan food in Las Vegas? Vegans, Baby tells all

How do you find a good vegan meal in Las Vegas? Diana Edelman knows where to go. She's the creator of Vegans, Baby, a website where plant-based eaters can discover restaurants that offer vegan or vegan-friendly fare.

Edelman started the website after she moved to Vegas a few years ago and struggled to find vegan places to eat in the city.

"The tricky thing about Las Vegas is, we really don't have many 100% vegan restaurants. By and large, the majority of the restaurants on Vegans, Baby are vegan-friendly," she said.

Edelman feels the website is an important resource for locals and tourists.

"I wanted [the website] to be a full resource for people coming into town, whether from Southern California or England," she said. "I wanted people to have this opportunity to not make an excuse [and not eat vegan] while they're traveling."

Two Las Vegas donut shops are vegan-friendly: Donut Bar and Ronald's Donuts. Diana Edelman

Las Vegas isn't known for having a vegan scene but options are improving. "It's slowly getting there," she said. "More and more restaurants are starting to have vegan options. They're coming out with vegan menus."

Edelman visits every place she lists on the website. Restaurants don't pay to be listed unless they want coupons posted in the deals section, which is separate from the listings.

While out-of-towners will need to follow their GPS to find some of the eateries, several are located in touristy places along Las Vegas Boulevard and downtown.

Three of Edelman's favorite dishes include:

--chicken pot pie gnocchi at VegeNation (616 Carson Ave. No. 120 in downtown Las Vegas).

Makers & Finders in downtown Las Vegas has spicy mushroom empanadas. Diana Edelman

--spicy mushroom empanadas at Makers & Finders (1120 S. Main St. No 110 in downtown Las Vegas).

--vegan omakase tasting menu at Nobu (Caesars Palace and Hard Rock Hotel).

The Vegas vegan's list also includes a few doughnut shops that avoid using lard in their recipes.

Edelman has also recently published the "Las Vegas Vegan Food Guide." "It goes through 36 different categories and lists the best in each category [as to] what to order," she said.

Source: Where to find good vegan food in Las Vegas? Vegans, Baby tells all

Top food and drink picks in Zurich, the undiscovered foodie paradise in Switzerland

When you think of Zurich, you probably imagine a wealthy metropolis teeming with hard-working business people.

That image isn't too far from the truth – but there's much more to Zurich than just banking and finance.

On top of its charming architecture, picturesque scenery and buzzing nightlife, the Swiss city has a thriving food scene which often gets overlooked.

Whether it's sausages or strudel you're after, you won't be disappointed there.

I was lucky enough to spend three days eating and drinking my way around, trying everything from street food stalls to five-star restaurants.

Here are my top eight food and drink picks in Zurich!

1) FOOD ZURICH festival Zurich Food festival Read More

If you're a real gourmand, you should try to visit the city during the FOOD ZURICH festival in September.

The programme boasts more than 150 events over eleven days, taking place everywhere from established restaurants to private homes, castles and tunnels.

If you're interested in hands-on experiences you can take part in cooking workshops and courses like cupcake decorating, sausage making and truffle hunting – or just stuff your face with some of the finest culinary creations Zurich has to offer.

In a nutshell, it's a paradise for food lovers of all ages, tastes and backgrounds.

2) Max Chocolatier World famous chocolates at Max Chocolatier

If there's one thing the Swiss know how to make, it's chocolate, and Max Chocolatier will knock your socks off.

The family-run business uses top quality ingredients in its unique handmade chocolates, shunning artificial colours and preservatives.

They also work closely with farmers around the world and pay above fair trade prices for their cacao beans.

Customers can choose from 156 different flavours, including the likes of alpine breeze, macchiato and Roteli Swiss liqueur.

Plus they sell incredible ice-cream in the summertime!

3) Hiltl Veggie delights at Hiltl

Founded in 1898, Hiltl holds the Guinness World Record for being the oldest vegetarian restaurant in the world.

Spread over two floors, the Sihlstrasse branch offers over 100 different dishes.

Choose from the likes of French, Italian, Indian or Chinese cuisine – all totally veggie and made fresh on site every day.

You can order a la carte, from the buffet, or for take-away, and they also have an innovative drinks menu including pressed juices, lemonades and cocktails.

The combined restaurant, bar-lounge, cooking studio, shop and seminar facility truly is a vegetarian Mecca.

Oh, and some nights it turns into a club – how very hip!

4) Food tour The Food Tour

Every Friday, gourmets can get the inside track on the city's culinary scene with a guided walk through the trendy Zurich-West quarter.

Learn about the eating and drinking culture of the area's inhabitants, visit some popular restaurants and sample some local delicacies.

Les Halles, a restaurant which has made its home in an old warehouse, stands out for its quirky décor, friendly atmosphere and famous moules frites.

The Viaduct, a market where farmers, bakers and butchers from the area sell fresh produce six days a week, is also worth a look.

5) The Dolder Grand Saltz at The Dolder Grand

If you're someone who enjoys the finer things in life, the Dolder Grand is the place to be.

Over the years, the five-star hotel has hosted the likes of Elizabeth Taylor, Winston Churchill, Hillary Clinton and The Rolling Stones.

Guests can choose from two dining options – The Restaurant and Saltz. The Restaurant has not one but TWO Michelin stars, 16 GaultMilau points and a lengthy waiting list.

I got to try Saltz, which is a little less swanky but still a big step above your average hotel restaurant.

The fresh, straightforward cuisine is excellent – but the panoramic views are unforgettable.

6) Gemüsebrücke Mirror reporter Kayla in Zurich

On Saturday mornings from 6am, the Gemüsebrücke (which means "vegetable bridge") hosts a market where locals come to buy vegetables, flowers, baked goods and more.

The square has been a market since the early 14 th century, and offers great views of the Limmat river as well as Lake Zurich.

Make sure you have a wander around the Old Town while you're here, stopping by the Fraumünster church with its remarkable stained glass windows.

7) John Baker Fresh pastries at John Baker

Here in Ireland, not everyone would stop by a bakery to pick up fresh bread everyday.

It's when you visit places like John Baker that you realise what we're missing!

This gorgeous bakery uses organic, eco-friendly and regional ingredients to create some of the most delicious bread we've ever tasted.

Pick up a croissant, baguette or some of their famous olive bread – you won't regret it.

8) Steinfels A delicious beer at Steinfels

Steinfels is a combined brewery and restaurant that specializes in great beers and burgers.

In addition to their four standard varieties - Lager, Weizen, Pils and IPA – they also offer a different seasonal brew every month, from tropical ales in summer to honey beers in winter.

Visitors to Steinfels can also watch master brewer Mathias Müller at work, sign up for special tastings and buy beer to take away.

Get there: Fly direct to Zurich with Swiss Air.

Public transport: If you're going to be using public transport a lot, it's a good idea to buy a ZürichCARD.

A card which lasts 24 hours costs 24 Swiss Francs and includes unlimited 2nd class travel by bus, train and tram in Zurich and the surrounding areas.

Source: Top food and drink picks in Zurich, the undiscovered foodie paradise in Switzerland

This Thing I Do: chef Carla Lalli Music makes food for plane travel

In her own personal send-off ritual, Carla Lalli Music—Bon Appétit's Food Director, passionate home cook, and frequent traveler—prepares tasty, nutritious dishes that travel well. "The food I take on the plane is the last home cooked food I'm going to have until I get back," she says. Here, she shares six of her favorites.

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Source: This Thing I Do: chef Carla Lalli Music makes food for plane travel

This airline has the worst food, according to new study

According to a new scientific study, Hawaiian Airlines has the most unhealthy in-flight meals  (iStock)

Hope you don't have any Hawaiian vacations coming up.

In their annual review of in-flight meals, researchers found that of all US airlines, Hawaiian Airlines has the most unhealthy in-flight meals, according to the study published by Charles Platkin, Ph.D., the director of the Hunter College NYC Food Policy Center and editor of DietDetective.com.

Hawaiian's meals clocked in at an average of 971 calories, Diet Detective nutritionists estimated. (The airline declined to provide their own nutritional information, which docked them a few points on the study's rating system.)

The healthiest meal award was a tie: Delta and Virgin both got four out of five stars on Platkin's scale, which accounts for factors like calories and accessibility of nutritional information. Delta's average calorie count per meal — snacks included — was 480, while Virgin America's was 340. Air Canada and JetBlue tied for second, followed by Alaska Airlines, United Airlines, American Airlines and several others.

The bulk of unhealthy calories that you eat in the air come from the snacks served on flights, Platkin writes. For many of the estimated 51 million holiday travelers, choosing your snack wisely can be a game changer.

"Even if you ate before you left home, you are still going to get hungry," he writes in the study, suggesting bringing healthy snacks, such as fruit, from home. "We often underestimate the amount of time a trip can take. A two-hour flight could mean four or five hours of travel."

This article originally appeared on the New York Post

Source: This airline has the worst food, according to new study

Ranked: the 50 best food cities of 2017

The best destinations for foodies in 2017 have now been revealed. Catering specialists Caterwings analyzed 11 different criteria in 100 cities, including critics' ratings, affordability, diversity of cuisines available and the quality of street food, to determine the world's best food cities for 2017. We bring you the top 50 destinations and explore the essential dishes in each one.

Source: Ranked: the 50 best food cities of 2017

BA chief says airline will not back down on charging short-haul passengers for food – even though they hate it

SNACK ATTACKED

Alex Cruz came under fire after ending free catering for economy passengers on short haul flights in January

THE boss of British Airways has dismissed calls for the airline to bring back free food and drink on short-haul flights, even though it is unpopular with travellers.

Alex Cruz came under fire after ending free catering for economy passengers on short haul flights in January.

British Airways

BA boss Alex Cruz has said that M&S food on short-haul flights is here to stay

The chief executive admitted the introduction of charges for food and drink was "very difficult", but insisted it was the right decision.

In a speech to the Aviation Club in central London, Mr Cruz claimed BA remains a "premium airline" but said customers expect low fares and "we don't really make an apology" for becoming moreefficient to compete with rivals such as easyJet and Ryanair.

When charges for Marks & Spencer products were implemented, some passengers complained they missed out due to slow service – while others were disappointed at having to pay when snacks were previously complimentary.

Alamy

The chief executive admitted the introduction of charges for food and drink had been 'very difficult'

Asked by former BA Concorde pilot John Hutchinson if he planned to change the "complete disaster" of a policy, Mr Cruz responded: "It was absolutely the right decision."

He accepted that it was very difficult at the beginning but said this was due to a logistics issue that took us a number of months to get to work.

Mr Cruz, who joined BA in April last year, told the audience: "Low fares are popular and for many customers they are what they expect.

"But they don't happen by magic. They happen because an airline has got itself in the right shape to be able to offer them."

AFP

BA boss Alex Cruz came under fire after ending free catering for economy passengers on short-haul flights in January

The carrier has been accused of turning itself into a budget operator in recent years, but Mr Cruz claimed it has a number of distinctive attributes which "in the hurly-burly of debate … caneasily be overlooked".

He praised the airline's loyalty programme, use of primary airports, punctuality record, staff and schedule size.

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Aviation consultant John Strickland said BA has to compete with low cost carriers while "upping its game" for the important premium fare segment.

"I don't see any conflict in doing both," he told the Press Association. "Whilst this is work in progress, BA is still the envy of many of its peers.

"It can't afford to take its eye off the ball but by keeping strong management focus it stands a good chance of succeeding in delivering strong profitability in the years ahead."

Source: BA chief says airline will not back down on charging short-haul passengers for food – even though they hate it

Travel Channel's 'Man v. Food' heads to Louisville

In addition to packing and scheduling hacks, expert Whitney Trowbridge, has helpful family finance tips. Chie Davis

Casey Webb host of Man V. Food on The Travel Channel heads to Louisville December 11 for Season Two of the popular food challenge show.(Photo: Provieded by Travel Challenge)

The Travel Channel's "Man v. Food" is headed to Louisville for the premiere of season two.

Armed with an appetite for victory and thirst for glory, host Casey Webb will gobble his way through some epic eats, including our city's signature sandwich, a booze-infused Southern staple and a one-of-a-kind spicy popcorn and milkshake.

Tune into the Travel Channel at 9 p.m. Monday, Dec. 11 as Webb vies for a spot in the world's most famous Winner's Circle at Churchill Downs and takes on food challenges throughout Louisville.

Reach Kirby Adams at kadams@courier-journal.com Twitter @kirbylouisville. Support strong local journalism by subscribing today: www.courier-journal.com/kirbya

You may like: The best gift shops in Louisville are in hidden in hotels, salons and even the hospital

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Source: Travel Channel's 'Man v. Food' heads to Louisville

Europe’s Craziest Food-Related Travel Experiences

Europe's Craziest Food-Related Travel Experiences

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Source: Europe's Craziest Food-Related Travel Experiences

This week in food and drink: Restaurant openings

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This week in food and drink: Restaurant openings

Check out new restaurant openings in Milwaukee, Nashville, Phoenix and Asheville, N.C. Plus, a new brewery and pop-up bar in other major cities.

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USA TODAY Network Published 8:00 a.m. ET Dec. 2, 2017

Native opened in Los Angeles on November 14.(Photo: Jake Ahles)

We hope you've finished those Thanksgiving leftovers because it's prime time to dine out. Food scenes in Milwaukee, Nashville, Phoenix and Asheville, N.C., saw debuts this week. Plus, New York's Hudson Valley has a new brewery, and the Miracle holiday bar has popped up in Detroit.

See restaurant openings in major cities across America among the USA TODAY Network's tweets of the week.

 

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Source: This week in food and drink: Restaurant openings

Will Travel for Food: Betty Crocker Lost Recipes

To me, there's something beguiling about the term lost recipes, a way of hearkening to the past and the way we ate back then. The 1950s and 1960s were a time of Jell-O molds. I remember my friend's mom having several fancy coppers molds — one shaped like a fish, another would turn out a jiggling orange studded with fruit cocktail hen.

In my house, though my mother was an early Julia Child aficionado, we also had a big red Betty Crocker cookbook which my mom and I used to make pie dough and the types of dinners you definitely wouldn't find in Julia & Company or her other cookbooks. Interestingly, while we know there's really no Jolly Green Giant, Mr. Clean or Ronald McDonald, there wasn't a Betty Crocker either. She was "born" in 1921 as part of a contest to win a bag of General Mills Gold Medal Flour and because the company was flooded not only with contestant entries but questions for "Betty Crocker" she quickly became the brand icon and go-to person for all baking questions.

According to the food history blog, ToriAvery.com, Betty's first name was chosen because it sounded wholesome and cheerful; her last name was the same as a recently retired company director. Even Betty's signature was carefully orchestrated. A contest was held among female employees to come up with the best "Betty Crocker" signature which would use on all her correspondence. Her portrait which change slightly over the years. In 1965, it was re-drawn to give her a Jackie Kennedy look and 31 years later, her skin told became more olive so she could be more ethnically diverse.

If all that is disappointing, here is a reassurance. There really was an Aunt Jemima, though her real name was Nancy Green. She was a former slave born in 1834 who was hired in 1890 by the R.T. Davis Milling Company to represent Aunt Jemima, an advertising character, making her the first African Americans to promote a corporate trademark.

A history of mid-20th century cookery can be found in Betty Crocker Lost Recipes: Beloved Vintage Recipes for Today's Kitchen (Betty Crocker 2017; $25), a collection of once common recipes that really have disappeared from most modern tables. Beautifully photographed, each recipe and accompanying picture triggers immediate recollections for easy to make dishes like Pigs in a Blanket, Cantonese Chicken Chop Suey and Cheese Sandwich Loaf. In the latter, four different colored fillings—red (cooked ham, bacon, pimentos and mayonnaise), yellow (hard cooked egg yolks and mayonnaise), white (cream cheese, mayo and cucumber) and green (sweet pickles, mayo and watercress or parsley) are layered between slices of white bread (what else given this is the 1950s) and then, after being refrigerated, cut into multi-colored slices.

There's also the classic salad supposedly created at the Waldorf Astoria hotel in New York City which can also be used as a sandwich filling and, one of my favorites, individual baked Alaska cupcakes—layers of ice cream, cake and meringue baked in a hot (450°F) oven for two to three minutes.

Put together and they make an impressive retro dinner.

1/4 cup finely chopped cooked ham

3 slices cooked bacon, crumbled

1/4 cup sliced pimientos, drained, chopped

4 hard cooked egg yolks, mashed

2 ounces cream cheese, softened

1/2 cup finely chopped peeled cucumber, well drained

1/3 cup finely chopped sweet pickles, well drained (about 4 small)

1/4 cup finely chopped fresh watercress or parsley

1 loaf (16 ounce) unsliced sandwich bread

2 tablespoons butter, softened

2 packages (8 ounce each) cream cheese, softened

Mix each filling separately in small bowls. Using a serrated knife, slice crusts from bread loaf. Cut loaf lengthwise to make 5 long slices.

Spread top of each slice with butter. Spread one filling on the bottom layer of bread. Top with one bread slice and spread one filling on top of bread. Repeat layers until all filling and bread are used. In medium bowl, mix cream cheese and milk until well blended. Spread cream cheese on outside of loaf, smoothing it as you spread.

Cover and refrigerate 3 hours or until firm. To serve, cut into ¾-inch slices.

Tip Use any of the ingredients in the pretty loaf to garnish the top of the loaf. Sweet pickles, pimiento, cucumber or watercress are a few suggestions

Waldorf Salad excerpted from Betty Crocker The Lost Recipes. Reproduced by permission of Houghton Mifflin Harcourt. All rights reserved.

Start to Finish: 10 Minutes

4 servings (3/4 cup each)

1/2 cup mayonnaise or salad dressing

2 medium unpeeled red apples, coarsely chopped (2 cups)

2 medium stalks celery, chopped (1 cup)

1/3 cup coarsely chopped nuts

In medium bowl, mix mayonnaise, lemon juice and milk until blended.

Stir in apples, celery and nuts. Serve on salad greens. Store salad covered in refrigerator.

Start to Finish: 3 Hours 45 Minutes

2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour

1 tablespoon baking powder

1 quart strawberry ice cream, softened (4 cups)

1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar

Place paper baking cup in each of 48 regular-size muffin cups; spray paper cups with baking spray with flour. In medium bowl, mix flour, baking powder and salt; set aside.

In large bowl, beat shortening with electric mixer on medium speed 30 seconds. Gradually add 1 2/3 cups sugar, about 1/3 cup at a time, beating well after each addition and scraping bowl occasionally.

Beat 2 minutes longer. Add 5 egg whites, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in 2 1/2 teaspoons vanilla. On low speed, alternately add flour mixture, about one third at a time, and milk, about half at a time, beating just until blended.

Divide batter evenly among muffin cups, filling only one third full.

Bake 10 to 14 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool 5 minutes. Remove cupcakes from pans to cooling racks. Cool completely, about 15 minutes.

Place 24 cupcakes in freezer plastic bag and freeze for another use. On top of each of the remaining 24 cupcakes, spoon and spread 2 heaping tablespoons ice cream. Cover; freeze at least 2 hours or overnight, until ice cream is hardened.

Heat oven to 450°F. In medium bowl, beat 4 egg whites, cream of tartar and 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla with electric mixer on high speed until soft peaks form. Gradually add 2/3 cup sugar, 1 tablespoon at a time, beating until stiff peaks form and mixture is glossy. Spread over ice cream topped cupcakes. Place on cookie sheet.

Bake 2 to 3 minutes or until lightly browned. Serve immediately.

Source: Will Travel for Food: Betty Crocker Lost Recipes

29 International Foods You Can Order On Amazon — No Travel Required

Taking time to travel and discover new places tops many of our wish-lists. But let's be real, mapping out all the trip logistics — like booking a flight, finding a hotel, deciding exactly what to do or see — can be a lot of work. That is especially true for those who want to have loads of fun but typically ball on a budget.

Not to worry, though. You can still have an amazing, around-the-world adventure without actually leaving the house. How, you ask? With food! Amazon has an online market of snacks and condiments that make for the perfect solution. The retailer sells thousands of packaged goods that can be shipped to your doorstep from nearly every corner of the globe. Whether you're a fan of Japanese Kit Kat flavors, want to try an artisanal French take on Nutella, or are looking for candy with a kick from Mexico, we've got something to temporarily cure your travel woes while you save up for your next trip.

Source: 29 International Foods You Can Order On Amazon — No Travel Required