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PAGE 1: Best Things to Do in Athens, Greece: Restaurants and Museums to Visit - Thrillist
URL: https://www.thrillist.com/travel/nation/things-to-do-athens-greece
Words: 3,071
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Cavan Images/Getty Images Cavan Images/Getty Images Travel International Off-the-Beaten Path in Athens, Where Ancient Innovation Meets Modern Culture Explore Europe's oldest capital city through the footsteps of modern Athenians in three perfect days. By Olivia Ellis Published on Nov 1, 2024 at 11:51 AM Skip Ahead: Your Athens Snapshot | Local Culture Connoisseur Itinerary | Culinary Traveler Itinerary | Neighborhood Hopper Itinerary | Know Before You Go Dating back to 3000 BCE, Athens is synonymous with ancient history, democracy, and culturally rich mythology. But this sprawling city, home to 129 neighborhoods across more than 1,000 square miles, has much to offer visitors than just its storied past. Europe’s oldest capital city is now a living paradox of old meets new, where ancient ruins stand in stark contrast to a buzzing contemporary culture that’s pushing boundaries through its food, art, technology, and design. Formerly industrial areas have been transformed into vibrant social spaces with trendy cafés, bars, and cultural venues that “reflect the city’s artistic spirit,” in the words of Athens-based spatial designer Stavros Sgouros. While most visitors flock to the Acropolis or the busy streets of Monastiraki and Plaka, there's an overlooked side of Athens that shines brighter than the Parthenon's marble on an August day. In the time that has passed since the 2008 economic crisis, Athens has rebuilt itself, rising from the ashes of a modern Greek tragedy with renewed energy and creativity. In the first half of 2024, over 21.6 million passengers passed through Athens International Airport, a significant increase over the same time period last year and a testament to the city's renaissance. Most visitors come to Athens with simple goals of wandering the Acropolis and the Parthenon and indulging in traditional dishes like gyro and moussaka. But the heart of Athens beats strongest off the expected tourist path. It’s here, among the lesser-known neighborhoods, where you’ll find the city’s complex and inspiring history still echoing through the streets. If you’re keen to experience Athens like a local, you’ve come to the right place. Your trip isn’t complete until you… See: The panoramic sunset views from Philopappos Hill. Also known as the Hill of the Muses, Philopappos Hill rises gracefully over Athens, just steps away from the city’s iconic landmarks, but it feels like a world of its own. The brief climb to the top is like stepping back in time, with ancient ruins sprinkled along the path. Touch: The warm sand beneath your feet on a beach along the Athenian Riviera. Tourists often miss Athens' nearby coastline, just a short metro, bus, or tram ride away. In the summer, locals enjoy the hidden gem of the Athenian Riviera, relaxing at beaches like Kavouri or spending evenings visiting Bolivar, a lively beachfront bar. In cooler months, sip coffee by the sea at a café, such as Moorings in Voula. Smell: Richly scented spices along Evripidou Street. Athens is a sensory feast. Just past the central market is Evripidou Street, where the air is filled with the aromas of freshly ground spices like Greek saffron, thyme, exotic cumin, and cinnamon, along with the savory scent of pastourma (cured and spiced beef). Vendors and spice shops like Bahar, a local staple since 1940 with over 2,500 products, make this fragrant journey one not to be missed. Hear: Music under the moonlight at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus during Athens Epidaurus Festival or the unmistakable sound of bouzoukia. On the southern slope of the Acropolis, the ancient Herodeon theater hosts the Athens Epidaurus Festival from May to October each year, with performances from opera to ballet under the Athenian night sky. Beyond the summer, head to a bouzoukia, where live music, table dancing, swirling smoke, and thunderous beats fill the air. By morning, you’ll feel like an adopted Athenian. Taste: A rich tapestry of flavors in a meal at a local tavern in Koukaki. Koukaki, just beyond the historic center, is one of Athens’ best kept secrets for a traditional Greek meal. “Koukaki has modernized over the years,” says Maria Filindras, who grew up in the area, "but the heart of the neighborhood, the connection to its food and community, is still the same." It’s the perfect spot to enjoy real Greek flavors away from the crowds, while still staying close to the city’s heart. Kerameikos | SEN LI/Moment/Getty Images _____________________________________________________________________ Things to do for the local culture connoisseur The first European Capital of Culture in 1985, Athens is swiftly transforming into a cultural hub where ancient legacies intertwine with a vibrant, gritty modern scene. Whether you’re interested in classical art or provocative urban graffiti, the city offers an authentic experience for every traveler eager to feel its creative pulse. While the Acropolis and its museum are essential for any Hellenophile, the privately owned Benaki Museum in the upscale Kolonaki neighborhood is often overlooked and features a comprehensive collection of Greek art from prehistoric times to today. Alternatively, visit the National Gallery, showcasing 1,000 paintings from the post-Byzantine era to modern Greece. For contemporary Greek art, Athens has numerous micro art galleries, particularly concentrated in Kifissia and Metaxourgeio. Music and theater are integral to Greek culture, celebrating ancient legacies and contemporary voices across generations. While summer days in Athens can be long and hot, locals eagerly await sunset, flocking to venues for live performances like the ancient Odeon of Herodes Atticus open-air theater and Technopolis, a late 19th-century gasworks facility transformed into a vibrant cultural complex. Bibliophiles will delight in Athens' independent bookshops. Lexikopoleio in Pangrati is a welcoming store with books in various languages and literary events. Evripidis in Chalandri spans four floors of global literature and was featured in Pan MacMillan’s list of beautiful bookstores worldwide in 2018. Ohh Boy | Photo by Thanasis Karanikas/ipolizei.gr, courtesy of Ohh Boy 8:30 am - Make your way to Pangrati for a modern Greek brunch at Ohh Boy. Greeks are known for their exceptional dishes, and breakfast is no exception. In the artsy neighborhood of Pangrati, Ohh Boy stands out as one of the best new spots in the city for a scrumptious, slow breakfast, featuring a delightful array of sweet and savory options, along with plenty of vegan choices. Indulge your sweet tooth with irresistible banoffee pie, and don’t miss the zucchini and corn pancakes as a savory main. 10 am - Dive into Athens' multifaceted urban landscape with a street art tour. Explore Athens’ vibrant neighborhoods and their intricate social fabric on a street art tour with Alternative Athens. This immersive experience offers a unique perspective on the city today, allowing you to look beyond the city’s ancient monuments and uncover the contemporary narratives that shape its modern identity. National Archaeological Museum | NurPhoto/NurPhoto/Getty Images 1:30 pm - Wander through antiquity at the National Archaeological Museum. Avoid the swarming crowds at the Acropolis Museum and instead, visit the National Archaeological Museum, home to one of the world’s largest collections of ancient and prehistoric art. Be sure to check out the famous Mask of Agamemnon, a remarkable gold mask unearthed at Mycenae, thought to represent the legendary king himself. Another highlight is the Antikythera Mechanism, a 2,000-year-old device considered by many to be the world’s first computer. 3 pm - Savor contemporary Greek tavern cuisine at Rozalia in the bohemian heart of Exarcheia. For dinner, head to the avant-garde, alternative neighborhood of Exarcheia, just a five-minute walk from the National Archaeological Museum. This underappreciated area, known for its rich anarchist history dating back to the 1940s, is home to Rozalia, celebrated for its exceptional mezze (small plates) set within an atmospheric, traditional garden, allowing you to savor a wide variety of dishes. The star of the show is the house moussaka, served and baked in clay pots. 9 pm - Catch a movie under the stars at Cine Thisio. Since 1904, Athenian locals have enjoyed films in open-air cinemas surrounded by seasonal blooms of deep purple and pink, a starlit sky, and a gentle breeze. Cine Thisio, along Apostolou Pavlou in the neoclassical Thisio neighborhood, stands out with its stunning views of the Acropolis and its renowned homemade sour cherry drink. Tickets are available only at the box office, so arrive early to secure yours. Cine Thisio | Photo courtesy of Cine Thisio _____________________________________________________________________ Things to do for the culinary traveler In Athens, food is more than sustenance; it’s a way of life. The moment you arrive in the Greek capital, you'll feel the city pulse with culinary traditions. For locals, a day often revolves around eating and drinking, creating moments to be shared with family and friends. And while traditional fare remains a cornerstone, Athens has evolved into a vibrant hub of fusion cuisine, offering a diverse array of flavors. Flavors and vibes vary by neighborhood. Psirri and Thiseio are rich in authentic Greek cuisine, while Koukaki and Pangrati offer a slower pace with fewer tourists. For a deeper connection to the city’s culinary heritage through the lens of a local, try a cooking class or join a food tour like the beloved Athens Food on Foot. Once the sun sets, Athens comes alive, showcasing its talent in mixology and oenology. While Greek wines may not be as renowned as their Italian peers, they offer unique flavors worth exploring. The area around the ancient necropolis of Keramikos, along with the lively district of Gazi, boast an artsy, LGBTQ+-friendly atmosphere filled with impressive cocktail bars. Whether you’re a purist eager to sample hidden gems or looking to dive into expertly alchemized cocktails, you’ve come to the right place. Kora Bakery | Photo courtesy of Kora Bakery 10 am - Sip a freddo cappuccino and grab a pastry from Kora Bakery. Start your day with a freddo cappuccino and modern Greek pastries at Kora Bakery in Kolonaki. Don’t miss the must-try rye cinnamon roll, and if you’re craving something heartier, their focaccia sandwiches are perfect, with olive oil rich focaccia that’s crisp on the outside, soft inside, and filled with seasonal ingredients like roasted vegetables, artisan cheeses, and savory cured meats. 12 pm - Get lost amongst the smells, sounds, and sights of the Varvakios Agora (Athens Central Market). Just a short walk from breakfast, Varvakios Agora, or Athens Central Market, is a foodie pilgrimage site. Established in 1884, the market lets you lose yourself in its vast, storied halls, soaking it all in. Check out Spyros Korakis’ stall in the fish market for a sampling of avgotaraho (Greek cured fish roe), and for a pre-lunch bite across from the meat market, Karayiannis serves up marinated anchovies and spicy lamb meatballs, the perfect mezze. Varvakios Agora, Central Street Market | Ivo Antonie de Rooij/Shutterstock. Lindasj22/Shutterstock. 1:30 pm - Take a cooking class at The Greek Kitchen. Skip the restaurant lunch and head to The Greek Kitchen in Monastiraki, where four friends teach you generations-old recipes. The class starts with sourcing fresh ingredients and ends with making classic dishes such as dolmades (stuffed grape leaves), spanakopita (spinach pie), and portokalopita (a traditional orange syrup cake). 3 pm - Dive into the world of Greek oenology at Athens Wine Tasting. With a full belly and new tricks, it’s time to explore Greek wines and learn how to pair your dishes. Just a 10-minute walk from The Greek Kitchen, Athens Wine Tasting offers an experience tasting wines from across Greece, guided by a certified expert who shares their history from ancient times to today. 9 pm - Dinner at Linou Soumpasis k sia in Psirri. This spot is one of the culinary highlights of Psirri, a former industrial area now vibrant with local creatives and food enthusiasts. The modern taverna offers Greek classics with a contemporary twist, like their Greek salad featuring creamy Greek brie and a standout lamb tagliata. Linou Soumpasis k sia | Photo courtesy of Linou Soumpasis k sia _____________________________________________________________________ Things to do for the neighborhood hopper While central Athens is vibrant, the suburbs, known as "proastia," offer a quintessential escape into local life. Each neighborhood reveals authentic experiences away from tourist crowds, allowing you to uncover hidden gems and gain a deeper understanding of Athens beyond its busy center. Start by taking the metro southwest to Piraeus, the original capital of modern Greece. This port neighborhood, with its working-class roots, is in the midst of a glow-up driven by local creatives. For contemporary art, visit Rodeo, an art gallery featuring Greek and international talent. If you want a classic tavern experience, don't miss Stoa Rakadiko. Travel further south by bus or tram to the glamorous Athenian Riviera, which includes Vari, Voula, and Vouliagmeni. This stretch features pristine sandy beaches like Zen Beach and unpretentious taverns such as Kavouri’s Agora, which serves fresh Mediterranean dishes with a sea breeze. Local artist Sofia Pyrrou notes, "Vouliagmeni feels like home, but Kavouri has a special pull, a calm that clears my mind and fills me with inspiration to create." Glyfada stands out as the commercial hub of the southern suburbs, buzzing with energy as locals and occasional celebrities gather to unwind, especially at sunset. On the city’s northern edge, a quick northbound metro ride away from the center, the suburbs offer a quieter atmosphere with an elegant charm. If you’re seeking leafy surroundings, scenic hikes, and impressive meals, Kifissia is the place to be. Sea Turtle Rescue Centre | Photo courtesy of Archelon Sea Turtle Rescue Centre 10 am - Unwind in the thermal waters of Lake Vouliagmeni. Either take a 40-minute taxi (around €30) or hop on the metro’s red line to Elliniko then take the 122 bus directly to Lake Vouliagmeni. Begin your day by soaking in the healing waters of this unique lake formed over 2,000 years ago. 12 pm - Lunch at a seaside tavern in Voula. After basking in the sun at one of Athens’ distinct natural wonders, take the 122 bus to Kavouri in Voula for lunch at a seaside tavern. The pedestrian pathway along Kavouri beach offers panoramic Mediterranean views and a variety of restaurants. For an affordable option, Tripia Varka satisfies seafood and ouzo cravings with its laid-back atmosphere, while Garbi, a local staple since 1924, serves up succulent seafood dishes. Sea Turtle Rescue Centre | Photo courtesy of Archelon Sea Turtle Rescue Centre 1:30 pm - Discover local conservation at The Sea Turtle Rescue Centre. Get hands-on with turtle conservation at The Sea Turtle Rescue Centre in Glyfada, just a 10-minute taxi ride or 20-minute bus from Kavouri. Tour the facility where injured sea turtles are rehabilitated before returning to the sea, supporting their survival since the 1980s. 3 pm - Explore the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center. “More than just a cultural venue, the SNFCC is an exemplary fusion of modern architecture and sustainable design.” says Sgouros. Hop on the T7 tram along the coast to the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center, where you can explore the expansive park, discover engaging exhibitions, enjoy panoramic views and delve into the rich collection at the National Library of Greece. The library includes over 4,500 ancient Greek texts, early works by Homer, and the impressive Byzantine dictionary The Large Etymological. 9 pm - Taste wines and small plates at Paleo Wine Store in Piraeus. Finish your day by taking the tram to Piraeus, Athens' energetic port neighborhood. Head to Paleo Wine Store, an extraordinary wine bar in a former tobacco storage facility, offering exceptional Mediterranean small plates and one of the largest wine lists you'll encounter. Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center | George Pachantouris/Moment/Getty Images. LOUISA GOULIAMAKI/AFP/Getty Images. _____________________________________________________________________ What to know before you go The currency Greece uses the euro (EUR) and, as of October 2024, $1 exchanges to .91€. Unlike many other southern European and Balkan countries, the majority of shops and restaurants in Greece accept credit cards, so don’t worry about exchanging cash. International adapters you’ll need When traveling to Greece, you'll need a Type C or Type F travel adapter, which features two round pins. Greece operates on a voltage of 230V and a frequency of 50Hz, so ensure your devices are compatible, or bring a voltage converter. When to plan your visit Athens often tops summer travel lists, but autumn and winter have their own unique charm, allowing you to enjoy the city’s rich history and culture without the crowds. Late spring offers warm weather and fewer tourists, making it perfect for swimming and a more authentic experience. The summer showcases Athens’ buzzing atmosphere and sun-soaked allure. Plaka historic district and Monastiraki Square at sunset | Alexander Spatari/Moment/Getty Images. Grant Faint/The Image Bank/Getty Images. Do’s and don’ts when visiting Athens Do take advantage of Athens’ efficient public transportation system, and try to avoid taxi rides in the city center due to relentless traffic. If visiting in summer, heed heat warnings and stay hydrated, as heat-related hospitalizations are on the rise. Don’t assume shops and restaurants will stay open late; many close early, especially in the off-season, so plan ahead. Most supermarkets are closed on Sundays, which can catch visitors off guard. Your Athens dinner party fact Beneath Athens lies a hidden web of tunnels, some dating back to ancient times, used over the centuries as drainage systems, aqueducts, WWII bomb shelters, and even secret smuggling routes. Today, only a few entrances are accessible, such as the Makrigianni Site beneath the Acropolis Museum, but these buried passageways reveal layers of history that most tourists (and even locals) don’t know exist. Related A Cheat Sheet to the Greek Islands, From Rhodes to Naxos Greece is home to thousands of islands—and these are the most magical. Related The Greek Beach That Looks Like the Moon Sarakiniko beach, on the island of Milos, is a hidden wonder. Related Forget Santorini—This Underrated Greek Island Has It All Pink beaches, ruins, hiking, and crowd-avoidance. Want more Thrillist? Follow us on Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, and YouTube. Olivia Ellis is a freelance travel writer currently based in Athens, with a passion for exploring her favorite place—Europe. Enthralled by diverse cuisines and local culture, she shares her travel experiences through her engaging content on YouTube. When she’s not creating, she loves to get lost in nature, always seeking the next great adventure. Sign Up for Next Flight Out Each week a Thrillist editor shares their first-person account of their latest adventure and inspo to help you plan your next trip. Subscribe I am 21+ years old By signing up, I agree to the Terms and Privacy Policy.
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PAGE 2: Chicago - Best Restaurants, Bars and Things to Do in CHI - Thrillist
URL: https://www.thrillist.com/chicago
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Skip to main content Events Three Perfect Days in Chicago—Without the Crowds Want to see a different side of Chicago? There are countless under-the-radar things to eat, see, and show the kids—and these itineraries can show you the way. Travel How to Spend Two Fancy but Affordable Days in Chicago Eat like a Top Chef, sweat with a sauna master, access rare art, and more tips to living large without going broke in the Windy City Events Everything You Need to Know to Go to Sueños, El Festival Latino In its fourth year, the Latine-centered music fest promises a second stage, a smooth entry, and a LATAM-spanning food menu Travel A Pet-Friendly Getaway to a Midwest Haven for Craft Beer and Cheese Also very popular: bratwursts, badgers, and the wiener mobile. Things to Do Travel The Midwest City with a Shockingly Authentic German Christmas Market Carmel is just 30 minutes north of downtown Indianapolis, but at Christmas it feels a world away. Travel The Ultimate Wellness Guide to Chicago Here’s how to unwind in the Windy City. Events 23 Things You Have to Do in Chicago This Year These are the must-hit festivals, concerts, events, and most fun things to do in Chicago this year. Travel The 10 Most Awe-Inspiring Abandoned Places Near Chicago From one of the most haunted locations in the U.S. to the long-forgotten Chicago Freight Tunnels. Travel The Prettiest Place for Public Art? Your Local Amtrak Station Waiting for your train just got a whole lot more artsy thanks to Amtrak’s new program. Travel The 'Hamptons of the Midwest' Is Finally Embracing Its Dungeons & Dragons Legacy "I don't see anything dark, and I don't see anything nerdy." Travel The Midwest City that Boasts Some of the Quirkiest Museums in the U.S. Head to these altars dedicated to the Big Mac and Heinz Ketchup. Travel Let’s All Stop Underestimating Iowa This Midwest state is so much more than corn, caucuses, and flyover country. Load More Load More Get Out of Town Travel How to See Milan’s Magnificent Art and Design Scene in Two Days Make the most of a visit to Italy’s design capital, admiring Renaissance paintings, visiting contemporary art installations, and joining chic locals for fine dining and wine at Michelin-starred restaurants Travel Drag Legend and Travel Pro Sasha Velour Knows How to “Werq the World” The RuPaul’s Drag Race winner shares her favorite travel memory, dream cities to perform in, and tricks for traveling for drag Travel Barge Cruising Is a Slow-Travel Antidote to Overtourism Drift down narrow waterways on a small boat in the French countryside, sipping local wine and snacking on cheese with a handful of friends and family Travel How to Spend Two Family-Friendly Days on California's Central Coast Explore tide pools, feed farm animals, watch elephant seals, and make time for local wine and coffee for the adults Presented By Visit California More City Guides Discover the best things to eat, drink, and do with our expertly curated city guides.
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PAGE 3: Best Things to Do in Cancun, Mexico, According to Local Experts - Thrillist
URL: https://www.thrillist.com/travel/nation/things-to-do-cancun-mexico
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Ziga Plahutar/E+/Getty Images Ziga Plahutar/E+/Getty Images Travel International Three Days in Cancun Without a Single Tourist Trap—Yes, It’s Doable Make the most of Cancun by embracing it for what it is: a frenetic hodgepodge created especially for you. By Rosie Bell Updated on Sep 11, 2024 at 9:54 AM Skip Ahead: Your Cancun Snapshot | Foodie Itinerary | Party People Itinerary | Travelers with Kids Itinerary | Where to Stay | Know Before You Go It is precisely because Cancun is a purpose-built hospitality haven that it seems totally geared towards the whims of tourists. Unbeknown to many, a dream team of bankers, architects, archaeologists, statisticians, sociologists, lawyers, government agencies, and urban planners converged in the late 1960s to create a tropical paradise in an untouched, industry-free location with consistently pleasant weather to draw visitors from around the globe. Decades later, Cancun is the poster child of the Mexican all-inclusive holiday. The iconic Cancun Hotel Zone (Zona Hotelera) is a slender sandbar shaped like the number "7," boasting butterscotch-soft sands that extend for 14 miles, gracefully curving along the Nichupté Lagoon and the Caribbean Sea. It is extremely beautiful and also deeply polarizing. People love to hate Cancun but that doesn’t stop millions from jetting there to escape the quotidian. Tourism in Mexico has surpassed pre-pandemic numbers and Cancun International Airport (CUN) has the lion’s share of those passengers—5.46 million tourists flew there in the first half of this year alone. Cancun is somewhat fairly pigeonholed as a tourist Disneyland but for every glow-in-the-dark Señor Frog's plastic cup or tequila “museum” in the Hotel Zone, there is a low-lit cantina or passed-down-through-generations handicrafts store in Centro (also known as Downtown Cancun) where the people who keep the tourism machine alive reside. For the historians among us, Cancun has investigation-worthy Mayan ruins right within the city limits (El Meco, Yamil Lu’um, San Miguelito, and El Rey which is opposite Playa Delfines). For those wishing to explore further afield, eco-parks, island adventures, and even the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef await. The Cancun of today has appeal for a wide variety of groups beyond the beaches. Your trip isn’t complete until you… See: One of the thousands of cenotes scattered across the Yucatán Peninsula. Believed to be gateways to underworlds below, cenotes were created by the collapse of limestone caves, resulting in sinkholes with water as clear as blanco tequila. In these stalactite and stalagmite-having caverns, vines dangle, stairs descend, and they are a swimmer’s perfect jewel with some as close as 40 minutes from Cancun. Do your research and pick your cenotes wisely as some are uber-deep and best left to divers while others have major crowds and even lines of people waiting to take pictures (looking at you, Cenote Suytun). To escape the crowds, avoid “celebrity cenotes” like Cenote Dos Ojos near Tulum and Cenote Jardin del Eden near Puerto Aventuras. Instead, dip to your heart’s content at Cenote Yal-Kú when in Akumal or head out to Cenote Verde Lucero and Cenote Zapote at the Ruta de Cenotes near Puerto Morelos where 57 cenotes vie for your attention. Touch: Powdery white sand at one of the city’s standout beaches. Even Cancun naysayers can’t fault the city’s dreamy beaches. This year, Cancun’s Hotel Zone boasts 47 Blue Flag-certified beaches that meet high standards for safety, environmental management, and cleanliness. Visit Playa Marlin, Playa Pez Volador, or Playa Chac Mool, which is easily accessible without any resorts blocking entry. Smell: The inviting aroma of marquesitas being prepared in Parque de las Palapas. Marquesitas are crunchy rolled crêpes that are served as tubes. They are crispy like churros but filled with a blend of savory and sweet ingredients. The most common combination is Nutella and cheese—an unusual mix that isn’t as unappetizing as it sounds. While the savory-sweet combo might not appeal to everyone, the scent of that dough being spread on the piping hot griddle conjures one of the quintessential aromas of the Yucatán. Go to Parque de las Palapas in the evening to breathe it all in. Hear: Live mariachi band serenades. Passionate, moving, and deep-throated. Mariachi music may have originated in the Mexican state of Jalisco but that’s not to stop you from enjoying it in Cancun. You can find singers in vibrant costumes performing heartfelt folkloric songs at restaurants like La Parilla Plaza la Isla, Aristeo, Mextreme, seafood joint Va Q Va, or at Porfirio’s while you sample their 100-strong tequila and mezcal collection. Mariachis are also part and parcel of the experience at Xoximilcho, a riveting floating fiesta aboard a colorful gondola-like trajinera. Taste: Tacos, tacos, tacos. Honestly, did you even come to Mexico if you didn’t have one? A great taco has the power to unite people from all social strata like no man’s business. Whether you wish to stick to plain old pastor (spit-grilled pork slices) and seafood (tacos de pescado) or push the boat out with cow’s brain (tacos de sesos) or eyeballs (tacos de ojos), there’s a hand-sized taco treat with your name on it in Cancun. Since tacos are their raison d'être, you can expect pure scrumptiousness at Taqueria Coapenitos, brightly painted Gory Tacos, and at Tacun, which feels festive with a ceiling of hanging piñatas. Oh-so-flavorful filings can also be found at Los Meros de Jalisco which, uniquely for Cancun, also has Guadalajara specialty carne en su jugo (“meat in its juices”) on the menu. Cancun coastline at sunrise | Wei Fang/Moment/Getty Images _____________________________________________________________________ Things to do for foodies For the gourmand whose pantry is as colorfully cluttered as their passport is laden with stamps, Cancun shouldn’t be overlooked. There are resort kitchens helmed by Michelin-starred chefs as well as no-name, off-the-beaten-path carts serving award-worthy bites, and plenty in between. “It really has everything,” says Karen Garza, a private chef and sommelier in Cancun. Originally from Matamoros in the state of Tamaulipas, she has lived in Cancun for over a decade and urges foodies to embrace the city’s kaleidoscopic culinary identity beyond its touristy reputation. “You can find fresh and local ingredients, traditional Mayan cuisine, world-class restaurants, gastronomic events and festivals, seafood, regional dishes, international cuisine such as Italian, Greek, French, Japanese, and also cuts of meat; literally everything,” she says. 9 am - Fill up during a local-led street food tour. Mexican cuisine was added to UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity and the folks at Cancun Food Tours are utterly proud of that fact. Join them bright and early on their educational Textures of Mexico Cancun Street Food Tour to sample a variety of local breakfast dishes in places where locals eat. Each tour has a maximum of 10 guests so you’ll have ample elbow room and space to tilt your head to sidestep any taco spillage. 1 pm - Pick up a pretty charcuterie box at Delibox Mexico. When Karen Garza isn’t whipping up meals for visiting NFL players as a private chef, she runs Delibox Mexico where you can snag an elaborate charcuterie box serving two to 14 people. Certainly not the stereotypical Cancun purchase, these are fun for a beach picnic. Three times a year, Garza also hosts charcuterie board-making workshops and wine pairings in Spanish and English. 1:30 pm - Get a haul of hot sauces and spices at Chedraui Cancún Chac-Mool. Sure, you can pick up your desired condiments, sauces, and spices at the resort gift shop or even at an open-air market. However, there’s something refreshing and honest about shopping where the prices are fixed and nobody is trying to goad you into purchasing more. Additionally, these products will be much more economical at Chedraui than at the aforementioned establishments. El Frish Fritanga | Courtesy of El Frish Fritanga 3 pm - Feet-in-the-sand seafood and sunset at El Frish Fritanga. This thatch-roofed Hotel Zone seafood joint is so well known for its hospitality that fishing excursioners bring their hauls there for cooking. The oysters are fresh, the vibes are on point, and there are delightful, string-lit views of the Nichupté Lagoon. Shoes optional. 8 pm - Energetic dinner at Ilios. Liven up your culinary tour by making reservations at Ilios on a weekend (when it’s most pumping). This lagoon-front eatery helped fill the Greek food gap in Cancun with an elegant and extra cast of characters: DJs, sparklers, fire breathers, cocktails on fire, Greek goddesses, and belly dancers. Come for the plate breaking. 11 pm - Late-night tacos at La Cabañita. If you’re still famished after your day of deliciousness, head to this locally-adored after-hours spot in Centro which only opens at 7 p.m. Tacos come in fours, not the standard pair. Ilios | Courtesy of Ilios _____________________________________________________________________ Things to do for party people MTV immortalized it as a spring break destination for college kids in the 2000s, but Cancun doesn’t discriminate by age, nationality, persuasion, or how you like to get your merrymaking fix. Life-of-the-party types, young professionals, retirees, wedding parties, and live music lovers come to Cancun to let loose and meet people from around the world. Daphne Slaats, a Dutch teacher living in Cancun is a fan of the varied dusk-till-dawn party scene there. “I love the party boats, a fancy beach club after work, or amazing shows in big clubs at night,” she says. “When I feel more like a smaller, cozy place, I take the bus to the center for just 10 pesos (54 cents at the time of writing) and go salsa dancing at La Coyota.” Some of Cancun’s drinking holes need no introduction like HRoof and The City (Latin America’s largest nightclub). But there are also tucked-away gems like Mu Burger House which deserves a special mention for its dedication to stocking hard-to-come-by bottles of Mexican craft beers and its creative takes on the carajillo cocktail (known to some as the Mexican espresso martini). You can pretty much find a good time anywhere in Cancun, but Punta Cancun (also known as the Party Center or Plaza Party) is where the fiesta is at. It is situated in the North Hotel Zone at the intersection where the two parts of the “7” converge and it is a haven for both day drinkers and night hedonists. 10 am - Lively liquid breakfast at Mextreme. This place is unapologetically loud, colorful, and full of life. The waitstaff, often doing magic tricks and balancing trays or multiple drinks on their heads, bring an element of showmanship to your meal. Start your day with Mextreme’s famed green chilaquiles—tortilla chips drenched in a vibrant salsa verde, topped with crema, cheese, and a fried egg. This plate is rumored to zap away hangovers. 12 pm - Water sports at Playa Chac Mool. As one of the closest beaches to the Party Center—and some relatively inexpensive Hotel Zone hostels—there’s a playful, ready-for-anything energy on Playa Chac Mool. Surfers appreciate the strong tides and there are opportunities for sailing, parasailing, or hiring jet skis and banana boats. Mandala Beach Club | Courtesy of Mandala Beach Club 3 pm - Pose and preen at Mandala Beach Club. Regardless of which stage you find yourself on the detox/retox cycle, you’ll be in good company with the deep blue sea as your oasis of a backdrop at Mandala Beach Club in the heart of the Party Center. 7 pm - Marlin meals and big pirate energy at Marinero’s. Line your stomach and transition from a sun-soaked day to a vibrant night at Marinero’s. There’s a nautical theme throughout and live music that won’t burst your eardrums. The marlin burrito, seafood molcajete, and the Marinero’s Platter of calamari, shrimp, and breaded fish are standout menu items. 9:30 pm - Loud Latin beats at La Vaquita. You might never hear a single non-English song at some of the bars and clubs in the Party Center. Not at La Vaquita. Hip-hop is prevalent, but Daddy Yankee, Bad Bunny, and J Balvin would be proud of the reggaeton selection at this open-air house of perreo. La Vaquita | Courtesy of La Vaquita _____________________________________________________________________ Things to do for travelers with kids Cancun might be known for all-out bacchanalia, but dig a little deeper and you’ll find it’s also a playground for families looking to make great memories. “Cancun is a particularly fantastic destination for families of all kinds,” according to Yandra Orsini who is the senior brand amplification manager at Grupo Xcaret, which operates a wide range of theme parks, hotels, tours, and other sustainable experiences in the state of Quintana Roo where Cancun is located. “Visitors continue to flock to our beautiful region because there’s always something new to see, explore, taste, and experience,” she says. One of those new experiences is Toboganxote, which is reportedly the world’s only 5-in-1 waterslide at Xplor adventure park, located about an hour outside Cancun. On the experiences front, interactive museums like the Museo Maya de Cancún, offer an exciting way to introduce children to Mexico’s history and they can get up close and personal with wildlife on sea and land. Where lodging is concerned, many resorts in Cancun are family-friendly, boasting amenities like kids’ clubs, splash pools, and family-sized suites. Also, at some all-inclusive hotels like Moon Palace Cancun and select Hyatt Inclusive Collection properties, youngsters play, stay, and dine free of charge when accompanied by paying adults. If you want your kids well-fed, entertained, and engaged, there is big fun on the cards in Cancun. 10 am - Glass bottom boat tour to MUSA. Take your tots, tweens, and teens on a subterranean adventure without getting wet. Departing daily from Punta Nizuc, this 2.5-hour educational adventure offers a stunning view of the Great Mayan Reef and the Underwater Museum of Art (MUSA). Marvel at coral species, exotic fish, and captivating sculptures that were designed to encourage coral growth. 1 pm - Family lunch at La Vicenta. The whole gang can partake in the yumminess at La Vicenta but kids are the guests of honor. Children eat for free all day and the ‘Chentitos’ Kids Club puts on special activities for two to 11-year-olds. 2:30 pm - Ascend Cancun Scenic Tower. Standing 260 feet tall in the Hotel Zone, Cancun Scenic Tower (Torre Escénica) grants bird's-eye views of the city's chaotic beauty. The tower’s viewing platform lifts and lowers, making it accessible without stair-climbing so there’s no need to break a sweat. If you’ve got a bracelet from any Xcaret Group theme park or tour, the ride is on the house. Sandcastles on the beach | oversnap/iStock/Getty Images 3:30 pm - Sand castles at Playa Tortugas. The Hotel Zone is divided into North, Middle, and South Zones. The Middle and South Zone Caribbean-facing beaches have those postcard turquoise-hued waters with stronger currents. The North, shaped like the horizontal bar of the "7," faces the calm Bahía de Mujeres with its waves tamed by Isla Mujeres a 30-minute ferry ride away. This is where you’ll find Playa Tortuga, which has shallow waters and a playground for kids to let their hair down in. 5:30 pm - Jolly Roger Pirate Show and Dinner. Step aboard and meet a crew of rowdy pirates swinging from ropes, battling with swords, and firing off cannons like it’s the golden age of piracy. All while you’re knocking back drinks and digging into grilled lobster or filet mignon. The night ends with a bang—literally—with fireworks lighting up the Caribbean sky. Check-in is from 5:30 pm at the Terminal Maritima Punta Sam pier. Jolly Roger Pirate Show | Courtesy of Jolly Roger Pirate Show _____________________________________________________________________ Where to stay Nizuc Resort & Spa ($$$$) If your fantasy Cancun vacation includes free-standing soaking tubs, private villas with tropical gardens, or even paddleboarding with your pets, the 29-acre Nizuc Resort & Spa is the place for you. While dogs munch on veal bone beef tartare and poultry sausage burritos, the rest of the clan have six outstanding restaurants to choose from as well as a Dom Pérignon wine cellar experience. Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach Cancun ($$$) Gem Spa at Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach Cancun is no secret among wellness aficionados. It’s a palatial 40,000-square-foot den of tranquility with 26 treatment rooms, a celebrated 10-step hydrotherapy ritual, and experiences inspired by gemstone therapy. Parents may be pleased to know there’s a separate Gem Spa dedicated to young ones aged between five and 15 years old. Live Aqua Cancún ($$) For a supremely stylish stay sans the pitter-patter of small feet, make reservations at Live Acqua Cancún, an adults-only, all-inclusive paradise. All 371 rooms have sea views and adjustable mood lighting, there’s a standout spa, seven pools at different temperatures, and a swim-up bar. It’s also right on a pristine beach with Blue Flag certification. Selina Cancun Lagoon Zone ($$) Selina is a powerhouse boutique hostel chain that launched in Panama in 2014 and soon took over the world, opening more than 80 locations in just six years. Like other outposts, Selina Laguna Cancun leans into its multihyphenate identity as a gathering spot for digital nomads (there are coworking facilities), tequila-thirsty partygoers, poolside sun worshippers, yogis, and backpackers with its enviable suite of amenities. This includes a tour desk, nightclub, and a movie room as well as shared and private rooms with TikTok-worthy wall art. Mayan Monkey ($) Your wallet and social life will thank you for booking a room at Mayan Monkey. Built on the site of what was once a Señor Frogs branch, the party goes on with cocktail-making classes, game nights, and live music. Mayan Monkey is a very social spot so you’ll likely have a slew of new amigos to hit the beach with, the closest being less than 10 minutes away on foot. Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach Cancun | Courtesy of Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach Cancun _____________________________________________________________________ What to know before you go The currency The currency used in Cancun is the Mexican peso (MXN). US dollars ($) are accepted in tourist zones but carrying pesos ensures you can pay without limitations and enjoy all experiences—street food, local eateries, markets, and more. At the time of writing, $1 USD exchanges for 18.65 pesos. International adapters you’ll need Cancun uses Type A and Type B electrical plugs, the same as those in the USA and Canada. Type A plugs have two flat pins, while Type B plugs include an additional grounding pin. Throughout Cancun and Mexico, the standard voltage is 127 V with a frequency of 60 Hz. When to plan your visit While temperatures are sunny and warm year-round in Cancun, be mindful of the Atlantic hurricane season from June to November, and sargassum seaweed on beaches from April to October (monitor the seaweed forecast groups and pages). For fewer crowds and better rates, consider the shoulder seasons of October to November and April to May. Those dreaming of swimming with whale sharks may do so between mid-May and mid-September. Do’s and don’ts when visiting Cancun Do pay attention to beach flags for safe swimming—green is safe, yellow means caution, red indicates danger, and black forbids entering the water. Also, protect marine life by using eco-friendly, biodegradable sunscreen in places like Garrafon Natural Reef Park in Isla Mujeres. Tap water is unsafe in Cancun so only drink bottled or filtered water. Your fun Cancun dinner party fact Nobody knows how the city’s name and spelling changed. It appeared on initial government documents as “Kan Kun,” which is Mayan for “nest of snakes” or “pot of gold.” Rumor has it that a clerical error was responsible for the change to the now-famous spelling. Want more Thrillist? Follow us on Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, and YouTube. Rosie Bell is a location-independent travel writer predominantly covering Latin America and the Caribbean. She has written for over 30 publications including BBC Travel, Forbes, Condé Nast Traveler, and Lonely Planet. An avid sun-seeker, her favorite destinations include the beaches of Mexico, Panama, Maldives, and Brazil. She has had the great fortune of calling the Mexican Caribbean home for over three years. Follow her on Instagram and read her informative musings on digital nomad life at DiscoverySessions.com. Sign Up for Next Flight Out Each week a Thrillist editor shares their first-person account of their latest adventure and inspo to help you plan your next trip. Subscribe I am 21+ years old By signing up, I agree to the Terms and Privacy Policy.
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PAGE 4: Best Things to Do in Budapest, Hungary: Restaurants, Museums and Culture - Thrillist
URL: https://www.thrillist.com/travel/nation/things-to-do-budapest-hungary
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Travel Europe A Locals-Approved Guide to Budapest’s Hidden History and Hip Haunts The Hungarian capital is known for its rich cultural scene, but its best features are off the beaten track. By Jennifer Walker Published on Nov 12, 2024 at 9:00 AM Skip Ahead: Your Budapest Snapshot | Arts & Culture Itinerary | Counterculture Itinerary | Culinary Traveler Itinerary | Where to Stay | Know Before You Go When it comes to architecture, Budapest has a dramatic flair. The Hungarian capital’s eclectic style has long attracted the film industry, but it’s also an ideal destination for travelers who seek out cities rich with history, art, and culture. It's a compact city, and you can see the main sights over a long weekend, as much of the downtown area clusters around the Danube River. But Budapest's true charm lies in the places hiding in plain sight that can even take some residents years to discover. It's a city that's been shaped by its complex history and isolated by a language that shares nothing in common with those spoken by its neighbors. Hungarian is unlike any European language (except, as a distant relation, to Finnish). It's a country marked by occupation, from the Ottoman Empire to the Habsburgs, and then later the scars of the World Wars, revolutions, and decades of communism. If you know where to look, you'll find its history written on the walls, from the Turkish bath houses to bullet-scarred walls left behind from the uprising against the Soviet occupation in 1956. Tucked between the grand boulevards and palatial apartment blocks, you'll find small local galleries, bohemian hubs in dilapidated former factory buildings, and a vibrant cultural and culinary life. Whether it's history, art, food, nightlife, or a lively counterculture, Budapest has something for any curious traveler. Your trip isn't complete until you… See: Budapest from the Danube River. Take a stroll along the embankments or take a boat trip to see the best of the city from the water. Touch: Budapest's thermal waters. Budapest sits on more than 100 geothermal springs, each with its own mineral profile. There are more than 10 thermal baths, but the most spectacular are the Szechényi, Gellért, and Rudas baths, which incorporate a 16th-century Ottoman bathhouse. These spots are popular, so if you want to escape the crowds, try some of the lesser-known baths like the Lukács Baths or the Veli Bej, a former Ottoman bath house hidden inside a hospital. Smell: A glass (or more) of Hungarian wine. Hungary has excellent wine, from bold reds from Eger to sweet Tokaj dessert wines. Sample some wines or go to a tasting, like with Tasting Table, which is run by a Hungarian-American married couple. Hear: Budapest has an excellent music scene, from classical to contemporary. Try to take in a classical performance at MÜPA, a modern complex by the river with excellent classical concerts, or the newly opened House of Music in City Park. If you prefer something more modern, come in August when the famous Sziget Festival is in full swing. Taste: "Whenever we think about a typical Hungarian dish, it's always paprika,” says Gabriella Andrónyi, a local culinary guide and the author of My Hungarian Cookbook. “The most important thing is to try gulyás soup and paprikás chicken because these are the iconic dishes we prepare at home." St.Stephen’s Basilica | Alexander Spatari/Moment/Getty Images _____________________________________________________________________ Things to do if you appreciate culture Budapest offers plenty for the art lover to admire. Excellent museums are scattered throughout the city, like the Museum of Fine Arts and the Ludwig Museum, both of which are worth visiting. It’s impossible, though, to manage everything in one day. If you're looking for a mix of architecture, fine art, contemporary art, and classical music, get a feel for Budapest's vibrant cultural and artistic landscape with the itinerary below. 9 am - Grab breakfast at Kelet Gallery and Cafe. Art Nouveau architecture, independent galleries, cafés, and design boutiques characterize Béla Bartók Boulevard, and Kelet has been an institution here for over a decade. This café is known for its rich coffees made with beans from a local roaster and tasty breakfasts, and also features wall-to-wall books on the ground floor and an art gallery on the first floor. Kelet Gallery and Cafe | Photo courtesy of Jennifer Walker 11 am - Discover a hidden art gallery in the Castle District. Head to the Koller Gallery, a hidden spot in the Castle District that's free to visit. They deal in fine art from local contemporary and historic artists, with a selection that would fit in a museum. Visit their ivy-clad garden with surrealist sculptures and head up to the top floor for views over the Danube and the Hungarian Parliament Building. 12 pm - Enjoy modern Hungarian cuisine in a former 17th-century inn. The Pest-Buda Bistro claims to be one of Hungary's oldest restaurants, occupying a former inn dating back to 1696. The restaurant retains a Baroque tavern-like vibe and offers homey and comforting food, with a menu focused on signature dishes like gulyás, chicken paprikás, and stuffed cabbage. Koller Gallery | Photo courtesy of Jennifer Walker 2 pm - Learn about Hungarian photography in two small museums. Hungary is famous for its photographers, with emigré names like Robert Capa, André Kertész, László Moholy-Nagy, and Brassaï having Hungarian roots. Head across the river and up Andrássy Avenue and you’ll find two small but excellent museums dedicated to photography. On one side of the boulevard, there’s the Mai Manó House of Hungarian Photography, residing in a house once belonging to a former imperial photographer that now exhibits photography. Across the road, you have the Robert Capa Contemporary Photography Center which features a permanent exhibition on Capa and temporary press photography exhibitions. Robert Capa Contemporary Photography Center | Photo courtesy of Jennifer Walker 5 pm - Grab afternoon tea at Café Zsivagó. Café Zsivagó is a bohemian coffee house around the corner from the Robert Capa Contemporary Photography Center that evokes a cozy living room from the 19th century. It's a popular spot with creative locals, notably for its selection of teas, alcoholic drinks, and homemade savory pastries and pies. Sometimes there's live jazz music here. 7:30 pm - Take in a classical concert at Liszt Ferenc Academy of Music. The Liszt Ferenc Academy of Music is striking architecturally, decked out with Zsolnay ceramics, stained glass, murals, and lashings of gold leaf. The academy hosts inexpensive concerts that begin at 7:30 pm almost nightly. Liszt Ferenc Academy of Music | Photo courtesy of Jennifer Walker _____________________________________________________________________ Things to do if you appreciate counterculture It can be tempting to stick to the top sights you can find in most any guidebook to this city, but Budapest's charms lie in its hidden spots. "It's pretty tempting to tick off all the touristy sites, they're beautiful, but Budapest offers so much more," says Attila Höfle from BudapestFlow, which organizes tours of the city that focus on alternative culture. "I'd recommend exploring the VIII District. Massive gentrification of the inner districts has pushed out alternative bars, independent galleries, artists, and small entrepreneurs into this part of town, and you can really find hidden and inspiring spots." This itinerary takes you around some of these spots to explore a different side of the city. 10 am - Breakfast at Lumen. This café inside a former downtown chemical factory on Horanszky utca, is popular with local bohemians, artists, and students. You'll find excellent egg dishes, granola, and Hungarian savory French toast called bundáskenyér for breakfast. Paloma Art Space | Photo courtesy of Jennifer Walker 11:30 pm - Get to know some local designers at Paloma Art Space. This unique space occupies a colonnaded courtyard with boutiques and workshops selling bags, jewelry, clothes, accessories, leather goods, and art from 50 local designers. You can even peek inside some workshops and chat with the designers yourself. 12:30 pm - Grab a soup and baguette at Bors GasztroBár. This hole-in-the-wall serves excellent street food, mainly soups and baguettes made with creative flavor combinations. The menu is seasonal, and you can anticipate a line, but the wait is worth it. 2 pm - Explore the street art of District VII. "It's full of large murals, but also smaller, uncommissioned art, like stickers, paste-ups, by local and international artists, along with Hungarian political street art, like the ‘Hungarian Banksy' by the Two-Tailed Dog Party," Attila says. "It's worth slowing down and taking a closer look.” Keep a look out while walking, or you can even do a street art tour to learn all the lore surrounding these pieces. Bors GasztroBár | Photo courtesy of Jennifer Walker 6 pm - Enjoy dinner among the cool kids. Café Csiga is a popular hangout for young creatives in the area, so it's always packed with a lively atmosphere. On the menu, you’ll find a mix of soups, from beef gulyás to Hungarian cold summer fruit soups, international dishes, and Central European fare, like sztrapacska, a Slovakian noodle dish made with potatoes and ewes’ cheese. 8 pm - End your night with a drink off the beaten path. Budapest’s District VII is also home to plenty of watering holes that are central to its countercultural spirit. "You can find really hidden and inspiring spots, like Nyolcsésfél, an ex-communist block that was once the telephone exchange—it's a really ugly building, but it's filled with artist studios and galleries. It has a nice courtyard garden with a bar and a cool mural in the background." Alternatively, head deeper into the district to Gólya, a warren of rooms in a high-ceilinged industrial space that operates as a left-wing community space by day and a bar and party hub by night. VII District | A great shot of/Shutterstock _____________________________________________________________________ Things to do for the culinary traveler Hungarian food shares similar traits to its Central European neighbors, in that it's heavy on the meat and potatoes, but its signature spice—paprika—makes Hungarian cuisine stand out. However, Hungarian culinary tradition is also rich in its desserts, liqueurs, wine, and pickles. Trying to taste everything traditionally Hungarian will leave you feeling like you're going to roll home, so here's an itinerary you can do in a day that gives you the best tastes of those signature Hungarian flavors. . 9 am - Start the day with a sweet treat. Café Gerbeaud’s story began in the 1850s and still captures this old-world grandeur with its opulent interior with crystal chandeliers and silk-dressed walls. "Try their iconic Gerbeaud cake, which is everyone's favorite recipe, as it's a classic all the grandmothers make. It was invented by the pastry chef," says Andrónyi. The iconic cake, also known by the Hungarian phonetic spelling, Zserbó, is made with flakey pastry layers, apricot jam, ground walnuts, apricot liqueur, and dark chocolate. Cafe Gerbeaud | Photo courtesy of Cafe Gerbeaud 11 am - Try the fried Hungarian dough at Retro Lángos. Once a kiosk outside the entrance to the Arany János utca metro stop, Retro Lángos gained such a cult following with both locals and tourists that they moved into a bigger, more comfortable spot across the road. Làngos is best described as a savory deep-fried dough topped with sour cream and cheese. It’s calorie-dense but so delicious! Best to share. 12 pm - Sample fresh sausages at Belvárosi Disznótoros. This is a standing-only place with tasty pork sausages. "The name means ‘pig-killing dinner in the downtown,'" says Andrónyi. "These are what we eat when we kill the pig. The sausages with paprika and the sausages with rice and liver are typical of what we eat in the winter. I always recommend trying them with freshly grated horseradish and mustard." Belvárosi Disznótoros | Photo courtesy of Jennifer Walker 1 pm - Explore the culinary offerings at the Central Market Hall. This site occupies a striking cast iron and red brick building with cathedral-like proportions. Head to the basement for pickle stands and kiosks selling game meats, while the ground floor is known for its vibrant fruit and vegetables, meat, poultry, charcuterie, and cheese stalls. While here, grab some culinary souvenirs like paprika powder or a bottle of Pálinka, a traditional local fruit brandy. If you’d prefer a less-crowded alternative offering a similar experience, hop on the metro to Újbuda Központ and check out the Fehérvári Market. It’s set in a brutalist building left over from communist times and the first floor is packed with seasonal vegetables, fruit, and even stalls from small vendors like mushroom inspectors. Central Market Hall | RossHelen/Shutterstock. fornStudio/Shutterstock. 3 pm - Learn the history of Hungary's famous bitters. You'll find these orb-shaped bottles in every Hungarian bar. Unicum is a bitter liqueur intertwined with the history of the Hungarian-Jewish Zwack family. Legend says it was invented by a physician to the Habsburg court when the emperor had digestive issues. "There are 40 kinds of herbs and spices inside, and we don't know what they are exactly because it's a secret recipe," says Andrónyi. Explore the story of unicum at the Zwack Unicum Museum, where you can tour the factory cellars and (of course) get a taste for yourself. 7:30 pm - Feast on Hungarian-Jewish cuisine at Rosenstein. Take tram 23 to Keleti Palyaudvar, and you'll be close to this family-owned restaurant serving excellent Hungarian and Hungarian-Jewish dishes. Definitely book ahead and try their acclaimed matzo ball soup or any of the duck or goose dishes on the menu. Rosenstein | Photo courtesy of Jennifer Walker _____________________________________________________________________ Where to stay W Budapest ($$$$) Opposite the Hungarian State Opera in the former Ballet Institute, the W Budapest revived this landmark that had stood abandoned for decades. It blends the building's architecture with modern design inspired by chess and the hotel's ballet heritage. The basement features a luxury spa resembling a hall of mirrors, paying tribute to Harry Houdini. There's on-site dining and a hidden cocktail bar serving drinks inspired by different eras and buildings of the city, with a speakeasy vibe. Mystery Hotel ($$$) Set in a former masonic lodge, the Mystery Hotel embraces its quirky past with surrealist decor and original Egyptian-style murals left behind. There's also a beautiful spa, with a hot tub enclosed in a glass conservatory and tropical foliage. In the summer, enjoy a rooftop bar with views overlooking the city. Inside, the main bar and restaurant occupy the former masonic ceremonial hall. Brody House ($$) This boutique hotel in the Palace District overlooks the Hungarian National Museum and occupies an old townhouse that once belonged to a famous doctor. Brody House embodies a shabby chic aesthetic, with exposed brick end chipped walls combined with work from local artists. There's an ivy-clad courtyard that’s home to the Garden Cafe, a Turkish brunch café and bar. W Budapest Hotel | Photo courtesy of W Budapest _____________________________________________________________________ What to know before you go How to get around Budapest has excellent public transit, with a network of trams, metros, and buses. It's best to get a pass, as you can travel without limits within the time your pass is valid. However, if you get a single ticket, validate it before getting on the metro, tram, or bus. A single ticket costs 450 HUF, a 24-hour pass is 2500 HUF, and you can buy tickets from ticket machines and counters or get a digital ticket on the BudapestGO app. Currency Hungary used the Hungarian Forint (HUF), roughly 370 HUF to the dollar. International adapters you'll need Hungary uses the standard continental European plug with two prongs, so if you’re bringing a generic European adapter, that will do. When to plan your visit The shoulder season is a good time to visit, as it's less busy than the middle of August during the Sziget Festival or December during the Christmas market season. Anytime is good to visit; it just depends on the weather, crowds, and what you'd like to do. Your fun Budapest dinner party fact Budapest has hundreds of caves carved out by thermal water. You can even go spelunking in the Buda Hills, but if you're a licensed cave diver, you can dive the world's largest known thermal water cave right in the city center opposite one of the thermal baths. Related Go to Budapest for the History, Stay for the Cake Delicious pastries await you around every corner in the Hungarian capital. Related Budapest's Ruin Bars Are Worth a Trip to Hungary Romkocsma are massive abandoned buildings that have been converted into bars and hangouts. Related The Most Popular Christmas Markets in Europe, Ranked The most Instagrammed spots during the most wonderful time of the year. Want more Thrillist? Follow us on Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, and YouTube. Jennifer Walker is a British-Hungarian ex-nuclear physicist turned writer living in Hungary. Although she has lived and worked in the UK, Germany, Spain, Georgia, and India, she returned to Budapest in 2013 to reconnect with her Hungarian roots. She writes about Central Europe and is co-author of Moon Prague, Vienna, and Budapest. Her work has been featured in CNN Travel, Lonely Planet, The Times (UK), The Independent, National Geographic Travel, Conde Nast Traveler, BBC Travel, and Time Out. She spends most of her free time discovering Budapest’s hidden places and secrets (which she sometimes shares on Instagram @jenniferdeborahwalker). Sign Up for Next Flight Out Each week a Thrillist editor shares their first-person account of their latest adventure and inspo to help you plan your next trip. Subscribe I am 21+ years old By signing up, I agree to the Terms and Privacy Policy.
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PAGE 5: Best Things to Do in Hong Kong: Island Hopping, Dim Sum, and More - Thrillist
URL: https://www.thrillist.com/travel/nation/things-to-do-hong-kong
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xPACIFICA/Stone/Getty Images xPACIFICA/Stone/Getty Images Travel Cities A Locals-Approved Guide to Hong Kong’s Lesser-Traveled Gems From island hopping in search of uncrowded beaches to buying a meticulously crafted mahjong set, there’s a treasure trove of hidden gems that showcase the true heartbeat and history of Hong Kong By Izzy Baskette Updated on Jan 15, 2025 at 12:00 PM Skip Ahead: Don’t Leave Until | Nostalgic Traveler Itinerary | Nature Enthusiast Itinerary | Major Epicure Itinerary | Where to Stay | Know Before You Go Hong Kong is a region defined by juxtaposition. Peaceful, verdant peaks and cerulean-hued waters surround frenetic street markets and strobing neon signs. More than 800-year-old Taoist temples juxtapose against hoards of towering skyscrapers. Generations of lifelong locals reside alongside flocks of newcomer expats. These compelling contrasts and the eclectic mix of Eastern and Western influences have understandably earned Hong Kong the nickname Asia’s World City—although it’s technically not a city, but a special administrative region. When you expand your horizons past the top tourist attractions like Victoria Peak, the Big Buddha, and Hong Kong Disneyland, there’s so much more to Hong Kong. From island hopping in search of uncrowded beaches and stunning hikes to buying a meticulously crafted mahjong set from the region’s last woman mahjong tile carver, there’s a treasure trove of hidden gems that showcase the true heartbeat and history of Hong Kong. In this guide, you’ll find three unexpected schedules for how to spend a few days in the region—with tips and anecdotes from local creatives. We know it’s impossible to explore all 263 islands and 18 districts over the course of one trip, but these well-tailored recommendations are a solid start. Here’s a less touristy guide to what to do in Hong Kong. Don’t leave Hong Kong until you... See: Separating Hong Kong Island and the Kowloon Peninsula, Victoria Harbor is the jewel of the area. Previously called Hong Kong Harbor, or Fragrant Harbor before British imperialism forced its renaming in 1861, this expansive body of water was how Hong Kong transformed from a fishing village into a modern hub. Ferry rides aside, the best way to get out on the water is on a junk (a traditional Chinese sailing ship). Known for its characteristic red sails, the Dukling is the last regularly sailing antique junk the sunset cruise or Symphony of Lights sail, which allows spectacular views of Hong Kong’s nightly sound and light show. Touch: Some of Hong Kong’s most beloved inhabitants are not, in fact, people at all; they’re cats. Found outside of small businesses and slipping between vendor stalls, there are thousands of stray felines that call this region home. But these aren’t your typical big-city alley cats. Often fed and fashioned make-shift beds by residents, they make for a great picture and double as semi-professional rodent exterminators. If you successfully win their trust, they might allow for an under-the-chin scratch. They may not have houses, but this community of kitties has undoubtedly made Hong Kong home. Smell: Before you taste the culinary delicacies of the region, you’ll smell them. From the caramel-y sweet scents of egg tarts and toasty roasted chestnuts to the aromatically arresting fragrances of roast goose and wonton noodle soup, let your nose lead you to your next meal. A trip along the streets of Sham Shui Po—one of the oldest districts in Hong Kong known for its stalwart restaurants and textile shops—will present you with all of the above and more, including rice noodle rolls, chilled soy milk, milk tea, clay pot rice, and snake soup. Hear: Cantonese opera is like nothing most travelers have heard before. It’s uniquely melodic, intense, chaotic, and full of high-pitched falsetto notes. Just one type of Chinese opera, the Cantonese version is mostly performed in Hong Kong and the Guangdong Province of China. In addition to dazzling vocals, each performance combines elements of martial arts, acrobatics, acting, and elaborate wardrobes. Drop by the Sunbeam Theatre, which holds performances throughout the week. Additionally, during the summer months each year, the Chinese Opera Festival vibrantly showcases these time-honored talents across Hong Kong and China. Taste: A successful night out in Hong Kong means at least a shot or two of baijiu. Made from fermented grains and water, baijiu is a sweet and sometimes savory Chinese liquor that is served neat and at room temperature. Available at almost every restaurant and bar, it’s usually served as a shot during festivities or toasts. You can also try baijiu-centric cocktails at trendy bars like Bamboo. FYI: Cheers in Cantonese is gon bui! arkira/iStock/Getty Images _____________________________________________________________________ Things to do for the history-loving film buff In some parts of Hong Kong, time seems to stand still. It’s this sense of romance and quiet moments of beauty that has served as a muse for some of the world’s most prominent creatives. One of the best ways to appreciate this nostalgic essence is through the work of acclaimed Hong Kong-based director Wong Kar-wai, creator of films such as In the Mood for Love and 2046. His nonlinear and highly color-saturated works have drawn travelers to the region for decades and served as inspiration for emerging talents like filmmaker Jazzie Sillona. Originally from Qatar and of Filipino descent, Sillona has lived in Hong Kong since 2018 and spends most of his days creating content for his popular Instagram page, as well as running his production company Jazzie Films. “I first fell in love with Hong Kong watching Jackie Chan movies with my dad,” Sillona says. “I find inspiration from how compact and timeless [Hong Kong] is. In my Humans of Hong Kong series, I channel inspiration from Wong Kar-wai and Wes Anderson by capturing locals in authentic, unscripted moments.” The magic of Sillona’s instant film-filtered videos is that, other than a visible smartphone here and there, one could easily believe they were shot decades ago. Similar to Sillona, it’s completely possible to live out your own wistful daydreams of times past in Hong Kong, from catching a matinee of your favorite Kar-wai movie to sipping coffee under a canopy of vintage tchotchkes. And there’s no harm in trying your hand at some artistic videography while you’re at it. 10 am - Sip coffee among retro knick knacks. With every available square inch covered in vintage memorabilia, Fullcup Plant is a true love letter to the 1960s and ’70s. In a space that was originally occupied by a bing sutt (a traditional Hong Kong diner that serves chilled drinks and a small menu of snacks), diners can peruse the Japanese-inspired menu for dishes like the signature black wagyu beef rice bowl and astronomy-influenced drinks like the Venus Rose Latte. Turn your phone on Do Not Disturb and take in the owner’s quirky collection of ephemera from antique signage and literature to newspaper-covered ceilings and stained glass. 11 am - Source some secondhand fits. Dressing the part is crucial when it comes to truly turning back time. Needless to say, this requires a stop by a stylish secondhand store or two. Some of the best options can be found in Kowloon including Little Dot Vintage for duds sourced from the 1950s to ’80s, Midwest Vintage for American-made styles, Sing Jai Kee for ’90s apparel, and Retrostone for band tees and denim. Midwest Vintage | Photo courtesy of Izzy Baskette 1 pm - Purchase a hand-carved set of mahjong tiles. In a pocket-sized shop in Hung Hom, you can find Ho Sau-Mei: The only female mahjong-tile carver in Hong Kong. First starting her craft at 13 years old, Sau-Mei now helms the family business at Kam Fat Mahjong, which was first opened by her father in 1962. Each tile is a labor of love, meticulously carved every day by the store owner herself in the small workshop. With a rise in the popularity of mahjong across the world, especially among younger generations, the shop is experiencing a pleasant surge in popularity, so don’t be surprised if you encounter a waitlist. 2:30 pm - Catch a classic matinee. Lux Theatre is a true delight, according to Sillona and his dreamy Reel. Opened in the 1970s, this movie theater retains its original charm, down to its decades-old film posters and the solely hand-marked paper tickets that workers pass out stating seat assignments (these make for an exquisite souvenir). There is also an antique weighing machine, which was all the rage in Hong Kong throughout the 1960s and ’70s, as well as an old-school film projector from when movies still required the film to be closely monitored and manually loaded throughout the screening. The theater shows a mix of modern-day and throwback Hong Kong- and Chinese-made films. Otherwise, drop by the Hong Kong Film Archive, which hosts screenings of pivotal films throughout the month (usually around 11 am) as well as exhibitions and international film festivals. Hong Kong Film Archive | Edward Wong/South China Morning Post/Getty Images 6 pm - Have breakfast for dinner. The modern iteration of bing sutts, cha chaan tengs are affordable, fuss-free cafes that serve Hong Kong-style comfort foods. Sillona’s favorite is one that mimics the interior of a red minibus called Cafe Match Box. (Compact buses have been used as speedy public transit since the 1960s.) Located a bit off the beaten path in Causeway Bay, the eatery’s menu specializes in breakfast classics like Spam and noodles or omelets. Plus, the restaurant has a ping pong table out front for a pre- or post-dinner match. If your preferences tend to lean sweet over savory, you’re in good company with Sillona. He orders the same thing each time: Hong Kong-style french toast. “The bread is dipped into egg, pan-fried, and then covered with condensed milk,” he explains. “Some [diners] like peanut butter inside, but I prefer mine with just the condensed milk, and a lot of butter.” 10 pm - Take the stage at this late-night pastime that never goes out of style. First gaining popularity in the 1980s as it made its way over from Japan, karaoke (often called KTV in the region) is ingrained in Hong Kong nightlife. Particularly, this was people’s moment to live out their dreams of Cantopop stardom from Anita Mui and Leslie Cheung. There are still plenty of spots with expansive options for retro music primed for singing your heart out. Visit the reasonably priced gay bar Boo Bar in Kowloon or the cafe-lounge hybrid Cosmos in Causeway Bay, which offers light-filled private rooms and a dependable menu of small bites. _____________________________________________________________________ Things to do for the nature enthusiast For many first-timers to Hong Kong, it might come as a surprise how close to nature the thrumming metropolis actually is. In fact, nearly 75% of Hong Kong is made up of verdant parks and preserves, all of which are accessible by boat, bus, or subway. One way to truly disconnect from the hustle and bustle is by boarding a ferry to one of the region’s 263 islands. Slower paced oases like Cheung Chau—known for its annual Bun Festival which usually takes place in May—offer adventurers everything from stellar seafood to less-crowded hiking trails and serene swimming. Cheung Chau | @ Didier Marti/Moment/Getty Images 9 am - Escape the chaos via a scenic ferry ride. To get to Cheung Chau from Hong Kong Island, embrace the morning air and bask in the water views by taking a ferry. The ride takes between 35 minutes and an hour, and ferries run about every 30 minutes from Central Pier 5 on Hong Kong Island. The round-trip fare costs roughly $28 HKD ($3.60 USD). Seats aren’t assigned, so hop on early and secure a seat up top and outside for the best views. 10 am - Discover a heavenly hidden gem while hiking. Once on the island, you’ll be greeted by a swath of moored fishing boats swaying peacefully in the harbor and loads of local seafood restaurants. Before leaving the island’s main drag, stash a couple of pineapple buns from family-run and -owned bakery Kwok Kam Kee Cake Shop in your backpack for later. To avoid crowded paths like the Cheung Chau Loop, opt for a hike out to the majestic Angel Wing Rock (also called the Cheung Chau Fire Stone), a mythical rock formation that resembles an angel’s wing. Pak Tso Wan Beach | gionnixxx/iStock/Getty Images. Katherine MacCallum/iStock/Getty Images. 12 pm - Soak in the seclusion of an uncrowded beach. After your daring hike, a leisurely swim is in order. Instead of the island’s two main beaches (Tung Wan Beach and Kwun Yam Beach), opt for Pak Tso Wan Beach. Here you can enjoy your pineapple buns in peace, while soaking in the photogenic cove. Seeing that it’s a low-trafficked area, it’s good to note that there are no lifeguards or shark nets here. 3:30 pm - Recharge and socialize back on the mainland. After catching a ferry back to the mainland, the West Kowloon Art Park is an idyllic destination for continuing your fresh-air adventure. Located on the Kowloon side of Victoria Harbor, the park is a great place to laze around after a morning of hiking. Pick up a matcha tonic or shiso lemonade from the nearby Rest Coffee Gin, go for a walk along the promenade, or find a shaded spot by the water to play cards and take a nap. West Kowloon Art Park | Marc Fernandes/NurPhoto/Getty Images. josephmok/iStock/Getty Images. 7 pm - Find a verdant terrace for dinner and drinks with a view. Formerly the home of Hong Kong’s Supreme Court, this stunning landmark now operates as a venue for swanky restaurants and bars dubbed The Magistry. When weather permits, the property’s Botanical Garden is a can’t-miss destination. Although there’s a slight dress code (no ripped jeans or sportswear), spending an evening on the British-influenced, lush terrace is a mellow way to end an active day. Menu items include oysters, caviar, and small plates like smoked salmon and pastry puffs. The drink menu offers a wide selection of gin. 9 pm - Pamper your weary soles. After a long day of hoofing it, there’s nothing better than a foot massage. Using traditional Chinese practices of reflexology—applying pressure to specific points—foot massages are said to allow qi (one’s life force) to flow throughout the body to stay balanced. It also doesn’t hurt that they're generally inexpensive and available into the late hours of the night. For more luxe options, try the Chaun Spa and Massage or Ten Feet Tall. Meanwhile, cheaper alternatives include Gao’s Foot Massage and Tai Pan Reflexology Parlour. _____________________________________________________________________ Things to do for the food lover Whether it’s through glistening roast meats, juicy dumplings, crunchy clay pot dishes, or silky tofu pudding, the city’s local cuisine is treasured by those who consume and create them. According to Hong Kong native and chef Archan Chan of the contemporary Cantonese restaurant Ho Lee Fook, food is Hong Kong’s love language. “Usually, Asian parents don’t say I love you. You’ll never hear that,” she says. “But, every time I came home or went to my grandma’s place, my family would have homemade soups ready. Broths and soups are meant to be good for your body. This is how they showed their love.” Alongside beloved, longtime restaurant owners and vendors, younger generations are channeling childhood memories to keep the authenticity of Hong Kong cuisine intact. If the sound of dim sum in the morning, pineapple buns in the afternoon, and grilled char siu in the evening piques your interest, this food-centric itinerary is for you. Ho Lee Fook | Photo courtesy of Izzy Baskette 9 am - Expand your palate through local produce tasting. Start any trip to a new destination by visiting the local wet market, which is full of fresh produce, seafood, meat, and more. According to Christine Wong, author of the recently published vegan cookbook The Vibrant Hong Kong Table, it’s the first thing she does on every trip back to Hong Kong. She especially recommends Central Market in the Central District, the oldest market in Hong Kong. “It’s colorful, it’s exciting, it’s bustling,” she says. “Big trucks go barreling down in between the stalls, and it’s the best way to try unique fruits and vegetables and more.” Try some lychee and longan grown on the nearby islands, or mud crab and cuttlefish plucked straight from the surrounding water. 11 am - Order endless rounds of dim sum. Located within the historic Old Police Headquarters in Tai Kwun is the contemporary eatery Chinese Library. Here, the brunch menu dazzles without breaking the bank. Held every Saturday and Sunday from 11 am to 3:30 pm, diners can enjoy endless rounds of appetizers, dim sum, and shared plates for $63 USD per person. Popular choices include black truffle har gau, barbecue pork baos, turnip cakes, pork cheung fun, and braised wagyu beef. For an extra $20 USD, you can tack on unlimited prosecco. 1 pm - Practice sustainability at Hong Kong’s first zero-waste store. Since 2017, Live Zero is trailblazing the sustainability movement in Hong Kong. Owned by Tamsin Thornburrow (a self-ascribed eco warrior), the Sai Ying Pun grocery commits to a zero-plastic ethos by offering reusable glass containers to customers. Shoppers can peruse ethically sourced goods from spices, dried fruits, nuts, chocolate, loose leaf tea, candy, and supplements. There’s also a selection of clean beauty and home products to peruse. 2 pm - Snag delicate dinnerware as souvenirs. Porcelain is cherished in Hong Kong culture. And not only is it whimsically beautiful, but it doubles as delicate dinnerware. For this, there’s only one place to go: the last hand-painted porcelain factory in Hong Kong, Yuet Tung Chinaworks. Specializing in Guangcai (characterized by colorful designs painted on a white base), the shop is filled to the brim with vibrant plates, bowls, silverware, tea cups, and more. 3 pm - Learn how to cook traditional Sichuan cuisine. Although you might enjoy the local cuisine, learning what goes into making the food can give you a whole new level of appreciation. Learn the traditions and techniques of Sichuan cuisine from chef Theign Phan of Grand Majestic Sichuan. During the two-hour lesson, guests will cook in a wok, become more familiar with regional spices, and sip champagne. As Sichuan cuisine has become increasingly popular in Hong Kong lately, it’s a perfect time to join the trend. Char sui | ammyvision/Moment/Getty Images _____________________________________________________________________ Where to stay Four Seasons Hong Kong $$$$ For an ultra-luxurious lodging, look no further than the Four Season Hong Kong. Conveniently located in Central—near the ferry terminal, MTR, and plenty of shopping—the sleek, 42-story hotel is the ultimate home base during a trip filled with long days of exploration. In terms of in-room amenities, guests can choose their own pillows and mattress toppers, take advantage of 24-hour room service, and unwind in the rooms’ deep-soak tub. There are also two outdoor pools, a hair salon, spa, fitness center, and eight restaurants and bars. If you’re open to the splurge, the hotel is worth the investment. Tai O Heritage Hotel $$$ If an island escape is more your speed, trek over to Lantau Island for a stay at Tai O Heritage Hotel. Once a maritime police station, the renovated, 19th-century colonial-style hotel is truly boutique, with only nine rooms and suites available. The rooms are simple but chic, decorated in a nautical aesthetic. Although, there’s no pool or spa—which is no problem if your schedule is stacked with nearby explorations and departures from the hotel grounds. Guests can sign up for two-hour hotel tours, in which guides share fascinating architectural and historical facts about the hotel and island. Eaton HK | Photo courtesy of Eaton HK Eaton Hong Kong $$ Located in the Jordan district in Kowloon, Eaton Hong Kong is a certifiably cool lodging option. Run by a younger generation of Hong Kong natives, not only does the hotel offer stylish rooms, but also provides guests with a temporary community through programming like sound baths, yoga classes, art exhibitions, and DJ sets. The property also offers a co-working space, movie theater, rooftop pool, and fitness center. _____________________________________________________________________ What to know before you go The currency Hong Kong uses the Hong Kong Dollar (HKD). As of January 2025, $1 USD exchanges for $7.79 HKD. While most places accept payment using American credit cards, it’s recommended to always have cash onhand in case a particular vendor doesn’t. Some travelers also opt to open an Octopus card for their trip, which is a reloadable, prepaid card that can be used at businesses and for public transit. How to get around Hong Kong is incredibly pedestrian-friendly. But, if you’re traveling farther distances, taking the Mass Transit Railway (the local subway system) or snagging a ride via Uber is best. For the MTR, American cards can be used to pay for fares, which adds to its convenience. Although minibuses are romantic in theory, having a basic understanding of the city layout and minimal Cantonese language skills are definitely necessary as passengers have to call out to their stop to the driver. If you do choose to explore this option, we suggest the green minibuses over the red, as they usually have fixed routes and some have bells installed now to avoid yelling to the driver. Octopus or coins can be used to pay for fares. When to plan your visit Peak typhoon season runs from July to September in Hong Kong. Additionally, June and August are the wettest months of the year. So, the ideal time to visit is from October to December, when the temperatures are mild and the rainfall lightens. International adaptors you’ll need There are two plug types used in Hong Kong: Type D and Type G. The Type D plug has three round pins organized in a triangular shape, while the Type G plug has three rectangular pins in a triangular shape. Hong Kong’s standard voltage is 220V, with a frequency of 50Hz. Don’ts when traveling to Hong Kong CBD is illegal in Hong Kong, so do not pack any CBD or CBD-infused products. Although most are aware of the usual paraphernalia that can’t be packed while traveling abroad, CBD might slip an average traveler’s mind. We highly recommend double-checking all of your belongings before leaving for the airport in order to avoid any unwanted hiccups upon arrival. Advice from a local According to Sillona, a way to quickly make a good impression is to learn a few common Cantonese phrases or words. “Everyone appreciates people who speak the language,” he says. “It’s a sign of respect.” Your fun Hong Kong dinner party fact Hong Kong roughly translates to “fragrant harbor.” This name comes from the fact that Victoria Harbor was once lined with incense shops. Want more Thrillist? Follow us on Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, and YouTube. Izzy Baskette is the former New York City Staff Writer for Thrillist. Sign Up for Next Flight Out Each week a Thrillist editor shares their first-person account of their latest adventure and inspo to help you plan your next trip. Subscribe I am 21+ years old By signing up, I agree to the Terms and Privacy Policy.
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PAGE 7: Best Restaurants in San Gabriel Valley: Good Places to Eat Outside LA - Thrillist
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Bone Kettle | Dylan + Jeni Bone Kettle | Dylan + Jeni Los Angeles Eat Where to Eat in the San Gabriel Valley, LA’s Eastern Neighbor By Kat Thompson Published on Feb 12, 2020 at 12:04 AM Lester Guijarro/Flickr Arcadia, the city where I grew up, and the San Gabriel Valley as a whole, is home to hundreds of Asian Americans and immigrants, which in turn means excellent ma-and-pop restaurants. Of the approximately 525,000 self-identified Asian Americans that call the SGV home, almost two thirds of them were born elsewhere, according to a report by KPCC. And although a good portion of them are Asian -- specifically Chinese -- it’s important to note the regional diversity of the many cuisines. There are Sichuan specialty shops with oxymoronic spicy and numbing cold noodles. There’s Cantonese soup dumpling restaurants where the liquid-filled parcels are hand-wrapped, and Taiwanese cafes that feature porkchop rice. There are other surprising favorites, too, beyond the explosion of Asian flavors. A local Hawaiian restaurant run by a hardworking and stubborn auntie. A place where Hainan chicken is the well-known specialty, but Italian food favorites -- like creamy baked halibut and mushroom pizza -- are also worth a shot. A late night taco truck where people of all backgrounds gather for dollar tacos and slender glass bottles of Mexican Coke. A Japanese-American owned donut shop that’s open 24 hours a day, and produces one of Jonathan Gold’s favorite donuts. A burger spot that’s been open for over 50 years, where locals still sit in the no-fuss swivel bar stools and dive into fresh, beefy patties and pie. The San Gabriel Valley -- and the food within its confines -- has a quiet magic to it. The primarily homestyle cooking teems with the experiences of its creators. The more upscale spots are trendy yet unpretentious. As an Angeleno who’s rendezvoused at the Beverly Hills steakhouses, eaten fresh fish on the ocean-hugging west side, and watched the sunset on rooftops in Downtown LA, I can confidently say that no other neighborhood in the city of angels has the same heart as the food in the San Gabriel Valley. I mean, I guess there’s no place like home. Thirsty Cow Korean BBQ Thirsty Cow Korean BBQ Rowland Heights Premium all-you-can-eat Korean barbecue with endless banchan to choose from Korean barbecue is legendary in Los Angeles, but getting to K-Town from the east side of LA can be a bit of a hassle. Thankfully, Thirsty Cow exists. Thirsty Cow Korean BBQ is an all-you-can-eat spot in Rowland Heights where the quality of meat is worth the approximately $30 per person price tag. Choose from a long list of proteins, including short ribs, brisket, marinated pork, chicken, and shrimp (to name a few) and then keep the meat coming. And coming. And coming. The servers are attentive and will change your grill frequently to ensure there’s no crusty char on your meat. The sides are unlimited, and the steamed egg is divine. There’s cinnamon dusted grilled pineapple for dessert, which is absolutely as refreshing and delicious as it sounds. I typically need to roll myself out after a trip to Thirsty Cow, and it’s always worth it. Bhanu Indian Grocery & Cuisine Rosemead Half restaurant, half grocer with flavorful and unfussy Indian fare Bhanu is a discreet spot. Located in a random strip mall (as so many great LA restaurants are) next to what was formerly a Petco, the Indian restaurant-grocer combo doesn’t seem too enthralling from the outside. But this is why we learn not to judge a book by its cover; Bhanu is excellent. The brother and sister pair who started Bhanu once owned restaurants in Bombay, and brought their know-how and recipes -- much to the delight of all of us -- to the SGV. The array of samosas, regardless of the filling, is always pleasing. The masala dosa is crispy while the dough is perfectly tangy and stuffed with spiced potatoes. Popular dishes, like tikka masala, butter chicken, palak paneer, and lamb vindaloo, are executed just right and intensely flavorful. You can not go wrong here. And the best part of finishing a meal at Bhanu’s? Wandering the grocery aisles for snacks and sweets to take home. Young Dong Tofu Young Dong Tofu Arcadia Comforting tofu soups with an array of Korean classics like bulgogi and bibimbap You won’t find an AYCE deal for Korean barbecue at Young Dong, but what you get in its place are bubbling pots of sundubu-jjigae (or Korean tofu soup), platters of marinated bulgogi, a stunning Korean pancake layered with green onions and carrots, and enough banchan (aka small plates) to keep you full. Young Dong has always been the ideal spot for a rainy day meal; there’s just something that comforts you from the inside out when eating spicy soup loaded with cubes of soft tofu. Every soup order comes with a raw egg to crack into the boiling masterpiece, as well as cabbage kimchi, spicy cucumbers, and sesame bean sprouts. There’s an array of tofu soups to choose from, like kimchi, seafood, beef, and -- my personal favorite -- dumpling. If tofu soup isn’t enough, order a plate of bulgogi; I guarantee the meat, soup, and banchan will be plenty. Paper Pot Arcadia and Diamond Bar DIY platters of veggies and proteins cooked in fragrant soups within a surprising pot Hot pot is such a comfort food in the SGV, especially during the colder seasons. There’s nothing quite like the DIY spirit of the meal, where you can select your favorite meats, veggies, and broth, and leisurely cook them in a personal pot of boiling broth while simultaneously getting a steamy facial. Paper Pot seems gimmicky with its otherworldly paper pots that somehow boil soup bases without catching fire (thanks to some clever induction heating), but wading past that wow-factor you’ll find bright slices of well-marbled beef, baskets of fresh produce, and a wide selection of savory soups to choose from. The sesame sauce Paper Pot provides is nutty and earthy, while a yuzu-laced soy sauce is perfectly complementary to freshly cooked beef. Paper Pot is the perfect spot for a long lunch with a friend where you’ll get proteins, veggies, rice, and endless amounts of soup. Golden Deli San Gabriel and Temple City A beloved, Jonathan Gold-approved Vietnamese restaurant with generous egg rolls Golden Deli is a mystical place within the San Gabriel Valley, and no guide would be complete without mentioning it. The family-owned Vietnamese spot makes arguably the best pho in Los Angeles complete with cooked down bone broth, tender slices of ribeye, and bouncy rice noodles. But, like many Vietnamese spots, pho isn’t the only star. The grilled pork vermicelli bowl contains a generous portion of charbroiled, marinated pork, alongside fresh herbs and veggies atop a bed of thin vermicelli noodles doused with a sweet and funky fish sauce with pickled carrots. The chả giò, or fried egg rolls, possesses a crackly skin and is crammed with pork and served alongside platters of fresh veggies to lighten the appetizer. Dessert includes mung bean and pandan jelly coconut beverages, and a tart lemon soda perfects the meal. T.Tseng/Flickr Mian San Gabriel & Rowland Heights Tingly Szechuan food served with a cooling mung bean tea Mian serves a mindblow in a bowl. Of all the things to order at the noodle shop -- including a steamy bowl of spicy beef noodle soup and a delicate, souffle-like steamed egg topped with minced pork -- you must get the Szechaun cold noodles. The springy bowl of noodles is one of the most perplexing dishes I’ve ever had. Though the noodles are chilled, they’re fired up with chiles and Szechuan peppercorns, which deliver a numbing tingle to your tongue and lips. How can something be so hot and simultaneously so cold? To accompany the chile-laced noodles, Mian serves all its guests a soothing, chilled mung bean tea which is subtly sweet and deliciously nutty. Pork dumplings smothered in chile oil round out the meal. Beijing Pie House Monterey Park and Alhambra Northern Chinese spot specializing in flaky meat pies and lacey pan-fried dumplings It's not uncommon to order a meal entirely built from carbs at Beijing Pie House. In fact, I would venture to say that such a feat is encouraged. As its name suggests, Beijing Pie House specializes in Chinese meat pies, which can be stuffed with an array of meats and veggies; there’s summer squash and lamb, fennel and pork, and the classic combination of green onions and beef -- among another dozen or so options. And though the pies are the namesake of the restaurant, the menu stretches beyond them with a variety of mouth-watering options. The nutty dan dan noodles will tingle your tongue with Szechuan peppercorns, while the pan-fried dumplings don attractive and crispy lace skirts, hiding the juicy and meaty filling. Even something as simple as a green onion pancake is dressed in fragrant white pepper and cut to look like a bready rose. Be honest; no one is mad at consuming a carb-filled wonderland as a meal unless they’re unfortunately imprisoned by the keto diet. Bone Kettle Bone Kettle Pasadena Upscale-without-the-price Southeast Asian eats in trendy Old Town Pasadena Though the San Gabriel Valley is well known for cheap eats at cash-only spots, we can do high end Asian food, too. Take Bone Kettle, for example; situated in the center of Pasadena’s trendy Old Town, the Southeast Asian kitchen heavily influenced by Indonesian, Thai, and Malaysian cuisine brings forth eloquent dishes charged with the sophisticated flavors of the region. Their signature noodle soups are served with a beef bone broth that’s cooked for 36 hours and choice of varying tender proteins, like melt-in-your-mouth fatty brisket and braised oxtails. Round out your meal with an order of crispy chicken wings, fragrant pandan creme brulee, and a refreshing raspberry yuzu lemonade for the full experience. Cos&Pi South Pasadena Cozy brunch spot with fresh-baked pastries, bechamel-stuffed hashbrowns, and a memorable burger Though Cos&Pi is a relatively new restaurant, it's left an undeniably strong impression on me and other LA eaters -- especially in the brunch category. Cos&Pi is family owned and operated, so expect warm service, homemade pastries, and well-made comfort food. Highlights include a beef burger smothered with a fragrant and meaty bacon jam and glistening caramelized onions, crunchy bricks of hashbrowns au gratin stuffed with creamy bechamel sauce, and IG-worthy avocado toast delicately layered with edible flowers. This is an elevated neighborhood breakfast spot perfect for families, people with dogs, and anyone who wants to have an excellent meal. Bonus? You won’t have to fight for street parking or end up circling the block 14 times. Tacos La Doña San Gabriel Late-night taco truck with a huge selection of meats for an affordable price I live in New York now, and there's no denying New York City’s food scene is incredible. But, if there were ever a food to make me homesick -- aside from In-N-Out’s classic double-double -- it would be dollar tacos from my favorite food truck in the SGV, Tacos La Doña. The late night taco truck has been around since I was in high school, a beacon of light during intense midnight hunger pangs. For a mere dollar per taco, I’d load up on al pastor (marinated pork flavored with pineapple), carne asada (beef), suadero (beef brisket), carnitas (fried pork), and lengua (beef tongue) tacos before getting cozy on the trunk of my car and devouring the entire platter. An order of Mexican Coke is mandatory. Though the tacos aren’t a single dollar anymore, they’re still a steal at $1.25. A bonus is the salsa bar, where you can customize your tacos with lime, cilantro, onion, and a rainbow of salsas to your heart’s content. Cole Saladino/Thrillist Pie 'N Burger Pasadena No-frills classic burger and pie spot that’s been family owned and operated for decades In addition to having some of the best Chinese food in the country, the San Gabriel Valley is also home to one of Los Angeles’ best burgers -- in fact, the best burger according to our national burger critic, Kevin Alexander. This family-owned joint, which has been open since 1963, will timewarp you with its board menu, swivel stool bar seating, and no-nonsense selections. As the name of the diner-like spot suggests, I’d recommend going with the pie and, uh, burger. The char on the well-salted patty is mouth-watering, while the simple toppings -- lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, grilled onions, thousand island dressing, and a single slice of American cheese -- make for a perfectly balanced cheeseburger. Fries come out hot and fresh, and the pie selection is generous (I’d suggest the fresh strawberry if it’s in season, or the baked peach). Ocean Bo El Monte El Monte Casual, no-fuss Chinese food where the dim sum options are limitless and affordable Though Ocean Bo specializes in dim sum, you won’t find steaming push carts jamming into your chair legs or frantic aunties trying to push an additional plate of taro dumplings into your order here. Instead, Ocean Bo operates like two different businesses. In one entrance, the restaurant is treated more like a donut shop during the earlier hours, where diners can select an assortment of dim sum dishes to be packaged in styrofoam containers for take-out. The remainder of the restaurant operates like a typical sit down spot, where guests order dim sum dishes from a menu rather than flagging down the shumai cart that’s blown past them for the third time. Ocean Bo is simple, and the food is good, hearty, and affordable. Don’t expect velvet-backed chairs and luxurious carpeting. Do expect excellent dim sum at a reasonable price and a crowd on weekend mornings. Aloha Food Factory Alhambra Mom-and-pop restaurant specializing in Hawaiian favorites Like any legitimate mom-and-pop shop, the food at Aloha Food Factory comes out a bit slow, but is very obviously crafted with genuine care and a love for traditional Hawaiian dishes. Whatever you order, be sure to get a stack of macadamia pancakes to go along with it. It’s topped with a luscious macadamia cream sauce and crushed macadamia nuts, and the pancakes themselves are fluffy and griddled to perfection. My personal favorite is the Loco Moco, a hearty hamburger patty topped with yolky fried eggs and gravy, but you can’t go wrong with the savory kalua pork or Portguese sausage. Veronica/Flickr Savoy Kitchen Alhambra Hainanese chicken and Italian food that somehow goes together perfectly Savoy is one of those “if you know, you know” spots. Opened in 1982, the specialty of this corner restaurant on Valley Boulevard is a simple yet comforting dish of Hainanese chicken and rice. Each order comes with fragrant rice, juicy cuts of white and dark meat chicken, and a trio of sauces which may just be the highlight of the entire meal: a tongue-tingling ginger with bite, a zesty chile-based sauce with a healthy kick of acidity, and a balanced sweet-and-salty soy sauce. I’d also recommend getting an order of the creamy and butter baked halibut, which is topped with a rich, bubbling cheese. The halibut comes with either rice or pasta; I’d recommend getting rice and scooping cuts of delectable fish over it. And don’t forget: Orders of iced lemon tea are refillable and the perfect complement to whatever dish you end up getting at this Valley Boulevard mainstay. Jin Jiang San Gabriel Soup dumplings and stir fried Shanghainese noodles in a discreet plaza Tucked away in the corner of an unassuming plaza, Jin Jiang is the spot to frequent for hand-wrapped xialongbaos -- or soup dumplings -- that’ll make you forget that Din Tai Fung even exists. The unfussy xialongbaos are generously filled with your choice of pork or crab submerged in an uplifting, meaty broth and served with a mandatory side of ginger intended for diners to douse in black vinegar. In addition to the homely soup dumplings, Jin Jiang serves up a warming hot and sour soup, flaky green onion pancakes, and oil slicked Shanghainese fried noodles. Opt for the complementary hot jasmine tea, served in styrofoam cups, to cut through the heaviness of the meal. Thomas Hawk/Flickr Donut Man Glendora 24-hour donut shop well-known for seasonal favorites, like the fresh strawberry donut A trip to Donut Man is an adventure down route 66 that guarantees happy memories of stuffed balls of fried dough. The 24/7 donut shop churns out fresh yeast and cake donuts multiple times a day and has been owned and operated by the same man, Jim Nakano, for over 45 years. The seasonal specialties here are, in all honesty, some of the best donuts I’ve ever eaten in my life. Take, for example, the fresh strawberry donut: it’s only available during the warm berry season -- roughly from January until September in sunny Southern California -- but the limited time offer is a sphere of gooey, fruity heaven. You get a glazed yeast donut crammed full of easily 10 gigantic fresh strawberries. In the fall, Donut Man opts for creamy pumpkin and cinnamon-laced apple filled donuts. And you can’t go wrong with Tiger Tails: a twisted donut swirled with cinnamon sugar that’s available year round. Happy Family Restaurant Monterey Park Chinese classics made exclusively with vegetarian-friendly ingredients Happy Family Restaurant is a good name for this restaurant, as it allows meat eaters and vegetarians alike to leave perfectly pleased. Though the entire menu is plant-based, you wouldn’t be able to tell for some dishes; their version of orange chicken is on par with your favorite Chinese spot, despite being made from mushrooms. The menu is extensive but covers all Chinese favorites, like hot and sour soup, Singaporean noodles, fried rice, and more. And if you’re someone who really desires that meat flavor and texture, Happy Family Restaurant also has plenty of dishes with soy bean proteins. Trust me, you won’t miss meat when eating here. Sign up here for our daily LA email and be the first to get all the food/drink/fun Los Angeles has to offer. Kat Thompson is a Bangkok-born, LA-raised staff food writer. When not eating -- or writing about eating -- you can find her playing Settlers of Catan or reading sappy YA novels. Become a Local Insider in Los Angeles Get our expert guides to your new favorite city. Subscribe I am 21+ years old By signing up, I agree to the Terms and Privacy Policy.
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"page_name": "Best Things to Do in Athens, Greece: Restaurants and Museums to Visit - Thrillist",
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"content": "Cavan Images/Getty Images Cavan Images/Getty Images Travel International Off-the-Beaten Path in Athens, Where Ancient Innovation Meets Modern Culture Explore Europe's oldest capital city through the footsteps of modern Athenians in three perfect days. By Olivia Ellis Published on Nov 1, 2024 at 11:51 AM Skip Ahead: Your Athens Snapshot | Local Culture Connoisseur Itinerary | Culinary Traveler Itinerary | Neighborhood Hopper Itinerary | Know Before You Go Dating back to 3000 BCE, Athens is synonymous with ancient history, democracy, and culturally rich mythology. But this sprawling city, home to 129 neighborhoods across more than 1,000 square miles, has much to offer visitors than just its storied past. Europe’s oldest capital city is now a living paradox of old meets new, where ancient ruins stand in stark contrast to a buzzing contemporary culture that’s pushing boundaries through its food, art, technology, and design. Formerly industrial areas have been transformed into vibrant social spaces with trendy cafés, bars, and cultural venues that “reflect the city’s artistic spirit,” in the words of Athens-based spatial designer Stavros Sgouros. While most visitors flock to the Acropolis or the busy streets of Monastiraki and Plaka, there's an overlooked side of Athens that shines brighter than the Parthenon's marble on an August day. In the time that has passed since the 2008 economic crisis, Athens has rebuilt itself, rising from the ashes of a modern Greek tragedy with renewed energy and creativity. In the first half of 2024, over 21.6 million passengers passed through Athens International Airport, a significant increase over the same time period last year and a testament to the city's renaissance. Most visitors come to Athens with simple goals of wandering the Acropolis and the Parthenon and indulging in traditional dishes like gyro and moussaka. But the heart of Athens beats strongest off the expected tourist path. It’s here, among the lesser-known neighborhoods, where you’ll find the city’s complex and inspiring history still echoing through the streets. If you’re keen to experience Athens like a local, you’ve come to the right place. Your trip isn’t complete until you… See: The panoramic sunset views from Philopappos Hill. Also known as the Hill of the Muses, Philopappos Hill rises gracefully over Athens, just steps away from the city’s iconic landmarks, but it feels like a world of its own. The brief climb to the top is like stepping back in time, with ancient ruins sprinkled along the path. Touch: The warm sand beneath your feet on a beach along the Athenian Riviera. Tourists often miss Athens' nearby coastline, just a short metro, bus, or tram ride away. In the summer, locals enjoy the hidden gem of the Athenian Riviera, relaxing at beaches like Kavouri or spending evenings visiting Bolivar, a lively beachfront bar. In cooler months, sip coffee by the sea at a café, such as Moorings in Voula. Smell: Richly scented spices along Evripidou Street. Athens is a sensory feast. Just past the central market is Evripidou Street, where the air is filled with the aromas of freshly ground spices like Greek saffron, thyme, exotic cumin, and cinnamon, along with the savory scent of pastourma (cured and spiced beef). Vendors and spice shops like Bahar, a local staple since 1940 with over 2,500 products, make this fragrant journey one not to be missed. Hear: Music under the moonlight at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus during Athens Epidaurus Festival or the unmistakable sound of bouzoukia. On the southern slope of the Acropolis, the ancient Herodeon theater hosts the Athens Epidaurus Festival from May to October each year, with performances from opera to ballet under the Athenian night sky. Beyond the summer, head to a bouzoukia, where live music, table dancing, swirling smoke, and thunderous beats fill the air. By morning, you’ll feel like an adopted Athenian. Taste: A rich tapestry of flavors in a meal at a local tavern in Koukaki. Koukaki, just beyond the historic center, is one of Athens’ best kept secrets for a traditional Greek meal. “Koukaki has modernized over the years,” says Maria Filindras, who grew up in the area, \"but the heart of the neighborhood, the connection to its food and community, is still the same.\" It’s the perfect spot to enjoy real Greek flavors away from the crowds, while still staying close to the city’s heart. Kerameikos | SEN LI/Moment/Getty Images _____________________________________________________________________ Things to do for the local culture connoisseur The first European Capital of Culture in 1985, Athens is swiftly transforming into a cultural hub where ancient legacies intertwine with a vibrant, gritty modern scene. Whether you’re interested in classical art or provocative urban graffiti, the city offers an authentic experience for every traveler eager to feel its creative pulse. While the Acropolis and its museum are essential for any Hellenophile, the privately owned Benaki Museum in the upscale Kolonaki neighborhood is often overlooked and features a comprehensive collection of Greek art from prehistoric times to today. Alternatively, visit the National Gallery, showcasing 1,000 paintings from the post-Byzantine era to modern Greece. For contemporary Greek art, Athens has numerous micro art galleries, particularly concentrated in Kifissia and Metaxourgeio. Music and theater are integral to Greek culture, celebrating ancient legacies and contemporary voices across generations. While summer days in Athens can be long and hot, locals eagerly await sunset, flocking to venues for live performances like the ancient Odeon of Herodes Atticus open-air theater and Technopolis, a late 19th-century gasworks facility transformed into a vibrant cultural complex. Bibliophiles will delight in Athens' independent bookshops. Lexikopoleio in Pangrati is a welcoming store with books in various languages and literary events. Evripidis in Chalandri spans four floors of global literature and was featured in Pan MacMillan’s list of beautiful bookstores worldwide in 2018. Ohh Boy | Photo by Thanasis Karanikas/ipolizei.gr, courtesy of Ohh Boy 8:30 am - Make your way to Pangrati for a modern Greek brunch at Ohh Boy. Greeks are known for their exceptional dishes, and breakfast is no exception. In the artsy neighborhood of Pangrati, Ohh Boy stands out as one of the best new spots in the city for a scrumptious, slow breakfast, featuring a delightful array of sweet and savory options, along with plenty of vegan choices. Indulge your sweet tooth with irresistible banoffee pie, and don’t miss the zucchini and corn pancakes as a savory main. 10 am - Dive into Athens' multifaceted urban landscape with a street art tour. Explore Athens’ vibrant neighborhoods and their intricate social fabric on a street art tour with Alternative Athens. This immersive experience offers a unique perspective on the city today, allowing you to look beyond the city’s ancient monuments and uncover the contemporary narratives that shape its modern identity. National Archaeological Museum | NurPhoto/NurPhoto/Getty Images 1:30 pm - Wander through antiquity at the National Archaeological Museum. Avoid the swarming crowds at the Acropolis Museum and instead, visit the National Archaeological Museum, home to one of the world’s largest collections of ancient and prehistoric art. Be sure to check out the famous Mask of Agamemnon, a remarkable gold mask unearthed at Mycenae, thought to represent the legendary king himself. Another highlight is the Antikythera Mechanism, a 2,000-year-old device considered by many to be the world’s first computer. 3 pm - Savor contemporary Greek tavern cuisine at Rozalia in the bohemian heart of Exarcheia. For dinner, head to the avant-garde, alternative neighborhood of Exarcheia, just a five-minute walk from the National Archaeological Museum. This underappreciated area, known for its rich anarchist history dating back to the 1940s, is home to Rozalia, celebrated for its exceptional mezze (small plates) set within an atmospheric, traditional garden, allowing you to savor a wide variety of dishes. The star of the show is the house moussaka, served and baked in clay pots. 9 pm - Catch a movie under the stars at Cine Thisio. Since 1904, Athenian locals have enjoyed films in open-air cinemas surrounded by seasonal blooms of deep purple and pink, a starlit sky, and a gentle breeze. Cine Thisio, along Apostolou Pavlou in the neoclassical Thisio neighborhood, stands out with its stunning views of the Acropolis and its renowned homemade sour cherry drink. Tickets are available only at the box office, so arrive early to secure yours. Cine Thisio | Photo courtesy of Cine Thisio _____________________________________________________________________ Things to do for the culinary traveler In Athens, food is more than sustenance; it’s a way of life. The moment you arrive in the Greek capital, you'll feel the city pulse with culinary traditions. For locals, a day often revolves around eating and drinking, creating moments to be shared with family and friends. And while traditional fare remains a cornerstone, Athens has evolved into a vibrant hub of fusion cuisine, offering a diverse array of flavors. Flavors and vibes vary by neighborhood. Psirri and Thiseio are rich in authentic Greek cuisine, while Koukaki and Pangrati offer a slower pace with fewer tourists. For a deeper connection to the city’s culinary heritage through the lens of a local, try a cooking class or join a food tour like the beloved Athens Food on Foot. Once the sun sets, Athens comes alive, showcasing its talent in mixology and oenology. While Greek wines may not be as renowned as their Italian peers, they offer unique flavors worth exploring. The area around the ancient necropolis of Keramikos, along with the lively district of Gazi, boast an artsy, LGBTQ+-friendly atmosphere filled with impressive cocktail bars. Whether you’re a purist eager to sample hidden gems or looking to dive into expertly alchemized cocktails, you’ve come to the right place. Kora Bakery | Photo courtesy of Kora Bakery 10 am - Sip a freddo cappuccino and grab a pastry from Kora Bakery. Start your day with a freddo cappuccino and modern Greek pastries at Kora Bakery in Kolonaki. Don’t miss the must-try rye cinnamon roll, and if you’re craving something heartier, their focaccia sandwiches are perfect, with olive oil rich focaccia that’s crisp on the outside, soft inside, and filled with seasonal ingredients like roasted vegetables, artisan cheeses, and savory cured meats. 12 pm - Get lost amongst the smells, sounds, and sights of the Varvakios Agora (Athens Central Market). Just a short walk from breakfast, Varvakios Agora, or Athens Central Market, is a foodie pilgrimage site. Established in 1884, the market lets you lose yourself in its vast, storied halls, soaking it all in. Check out Spyros Korakis’ stall in the fish market for a sampling of avgotaraho (Greek cured fish roe), and for a pre-lunch bite across from the meat market, Karayiannis serves up marinated anchovies and spicy lamb meatballs, the perfect mezze. Varvakios Agora, Central Street Market | Ivo Antonie de Rooij/Shutterstock. Lindasj22/Shutterstock. 1:30 pm - Take a cooking class at The Greek Kitchen. Skip the restaurant lunch and head to The Greek Kitchen in Monastiraki, where four friends teach you generations-old recipes. The class starts with sourcing fresh ingredients and ends with making classic dishes such as dolmades (stuffed grape leaves), spanakopita (spinach pie), and portokalopita (a traditional orange syrup cake). 3 pm - Dive into the world of Greek oenology at Athens Wine Tasting. With a full belly and new tricks, it’s time to explore Greek wines and learn how to pair your dishes. Just a 10-minute walk from The Greek Kitchen, Athens Wine Tasting offers an experience tasting wines from across Greece, guided by a certified expert who shares their history from ancient times to today. 9 pm - Dinner at Linou Soumpasis k sia in Psirri. This spot is one of the culinary highlights of Psirri, a former industrial area now vibrant with local creatives and food enthusiasts. The modern taverna offers Greek classics with a contemporary twist, like their Greek salad featuring creamy Greek brie and a standout lamb tagliata. Linou Soumpasis k sia | Photo courtesy of Linou Soumpasis k sia _____________________________________________________________________ Things to do for the neighborhood hopper While central Athens is vibrant, the suburbs, known as \"proastia,\" offer a quintessential escape into local life. Each neighborhood reveals authentic experiences away from tourist crowds, allowing you to uncover hidden gems and gain a deeper understanding of Athens beyond its busy center. Start by taking the metro southwest to Piraeus, the original capital of modern Greece. This port neighborhood, with its working-class roots, is in the midst of a glow-up driven by local creatives. For contemporary art, visit Rodeo, an art gallery featuring Greek and international talent. If you want a classic tavern experience, don't miss Stoa Rakadiko. Travel further south by bus or tram to the glamorous Athenian Riviera, which includes Vari, Voula, and Vouliagmeni. This stretch features pristine sandy beaches like Zen Beach and unpretentious taverns such as Kavouri’s Agora, which serves fresh Mediterranean dishes with a sea breeze. Local artist Sofia Pyrrou notes, \"Vouliagmeni feels like home, but Kavouri has a special pull, a calm that clears my mind and fills me with inspiration to create.\" Glyfada stands out as the commercial hub of the southern suburbs, buzzing with energy as locals and occasional celebrities gather to unwind, especially at sunset. On the city’s northern edge, a quick northbound metro ride away from the center, the suburbs offer a quieter atmosphere with an elegant charm. If you’re seeking leafy surroundings, scenic hikes, and impressive meals, Kifissia is the place to be. Sea Turtle Rescue Centre | Photo courtesy of Archelon Sea Turtle Rescue Centre 10 am - Unwind in the thermal waters of Lake Vouliagmeni. Either take a 40-minute taxi (around €30) or hop on the metro’s red line to Elliniko then take the 122 bus directly to Lake Vouliagmeni. Begin your day by soaking in the healing waters of this unique lake formed over 2,000 years ago. 12 pm - Lunch at a seaside tavern in Voula. After basking in the sun at one of Athens’ distinct natural wonders, take the 122 bus to Kavouri in Voula for lunch at a seaside tavern. The pedestrian pathway along Kavouri beach offers panoramic Mediterranean views and a variety of restaurants. For an affordable option, Tripia Varka satisfies seafood and ouzo cravings with its laid-back atmosphere, while Garbi, a local staple since 1924, serves up succulent seafood dishes. Sea Turtle Rescue Centre | Photo courtesy of Archelon Sea Turtle Rescue Centre 1:30 pm - Discover local conservation at The Sea Turtle Rescue Centre. Get hands-on with turtle conservation at The Sea Turtle Rescue Centre in Glyfada, just a 10-minute taxi ride or 20-minute bus from Kavouri. Tour the facility where injured sea turtles are rehabilitated before returning to the sea, supporting their survival since the 1980s. 3 pm - Explore the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center. “More than just a cultural venue, the SNFCC is an exemplary fusion of modern architecture and sustainable design.” says Sgouros. Hop on the T7 tram along the coast to the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center, where you can explore the expansive park, discover engaging exhibitions, enjoy panoramic views and delve into the rich collection at the National Library of Greece. The library includes over 4,500 ancient Greek texts, early works by Homer, and the impressive Byzantine dictionary The Large Etymological. 9 pm - Taste wines and small plates at Paleo Wine Store in Piraeus. Finish your day by taking the tram to Piraeus, Athens' energetic port neighborhood. Head to Paleo Wine Store, an extraordinary wine bar in a former tobacco storage facility, offering exceptional Mediterranean small plates and one of the largest wine lists you'll encounter. Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center | George Pachantouris/Moment/Getty Images. LOUISA GOULIAMAKI/AFP/Getty Images. _____________________________________________________________________ What to know before you go The currency Greece uses the euro (EUR) and, as of October 2024, $1 exchanges to .91€. Unlike many other southern European and Balkan countries, the majority of shops and restaurants in Greece accept credit cards, so don’t worry about exchanging cash. International adapters you’ll need When traveling to Greece, you'll need a Type C or Type F travel adapter, which features two round pins. Greece operates on a voltage of 230V and a frequency of 50Hz, so ensure your devices are compatible, or bring a voltage converter. When to plan your visit Athens often tops summer travel lists, but autumn and winter have their own unique charm, allowing you to enjoy the city’s rich history and culture without the crowds. Late spring offers warm weather and fewer tourists, making it perfect for swimming and a more authentic experience. The summer showcases Athens’ buzzing atmosphere and sun-soaked allure. Plaka historic district and Monastiraki Square at sunset | Alexander Spatari/Moment/Getty Images. Grant Faint/The Image Bank/Getty Images. Do’s and don’ts when visiting Athens Do take advantage of Athens’ efficient public transportation system, and try to avoid taxi rides in the city center due to relentless traffic. If visiting in summer, heed heat warnings and stay hydrated, as heat-related hospitalizations are on the rise. Don’t assume shops and restaurants will stay open late; many close early, especially in the off-season, so plan ahead. Most supermarkets are closed on Sundays, which can catch visitors off guard. Your Athens dinner party fact Beneath Athens lies a hidden web of tunnels, some dating back to ancient times, used over the centuries as drainage systems, aqueducts, WWII bomb shelters, and even secret smuggling routes. Today, only a few entrances are accessible, such as the Makrigianni Site beneath the Acropolis Museum, but these buried passageways reveal layers of history that most tourists (and even locals) don’t know exist. Related A Cheat Sheet to the Greek Islands, From Rhodes to Naxos Greece is home to thousands of islands—and these are the most magical. Related The Greek Beach That Looks Like the Moon Sarakiniko beach, on the island of Milos, is a hidden wonder. Related Forget Santorini—This Underrated Greek Island Has It All Pink beaches, ruins, hiking, and crowd-avoidance. Want more Thrillist? Follow us on Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, and YouTube. Olivia Ellis is a freelance travel writer currently based in Athens, with a passion for exploring her favorite place—Europe. Enthralled by diverse cuisines and local culture, she shares her travel experiences through her engaging content on YouTube. When she’s not creating, she loves to get lost in nature, always seeking the next great adventure. Sign Up for Next Flight Out Each week a Thrillist editor shares their first-person account of their latest adventure and inspo to help you plan your next trip. Subscribe I am 21+ years old By signing up, I agree to the Terms and Privacy Policy.",
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"content": "Skip to main content Events Three Perfect Days in Chicago—Without the Crowds Want to see a different side of Chicago? There are countless under-the-radar things to eat, see, and show the kids—and these itineraries can show you the way. Travel How to Spend Two Fancy but Affordable Days in Chicago Eat like a Top Chef, sweat with a sauna master, access rare art, and more tips to living large without going broke in the Windy City Events Everything You Need to Know to Go to Sueños, El Festival Latino In its fourth year, the Latine-centered music fest promises a second stage, a smooth entry, and a LATAM-spanning food menu Travel A Pet-Friendly Getaway to a Midwest Haven for Craft Beer and Cheese Also very popular: bratwursts, badgers, and the wiener mobile. Things to Do Travel The Midwest City with a Shockingly Authentic German Christmas Market Carmel is just 30 minutes north of downtown Indianapolis, but at Christmas it feels a world away. Travel The Ultimate Wellness Guide to Chicago Here’s how to unwind in the Windy City. Events 23 Things You Have to Do in Chicago This Year These are the must-hit festivals, concerts, events, and most fun things to do in Chicago this year. Travel The 10 Most Awe-Inspiring Abandoned Places Near Chicago From one of the most haunted locations in the U.S. to the long-forgotten Chicago Freight Tunnels. Travel The Prettiest Place for Public Art? Your Local Amtrak Station Waiting for your train just got a whole lot more artsy thanks to Amtrak’s new program. Travel The 'Hamptons of the Midwest' Is Finally Embracing Its Dungeons & Dragons Legacy \"I don't see anything dark, and I don't see anything nerdy.\" Travel The Midwest City that Boasts Some of the Quirkiest Museums in the U.S. Head to these altars dedicated to the Big Mac and Heinz Ketchup. Travel Let’s All Stop Underestimating Iowa This Midwest state is so much more than corn, caucuses, and flyover country. Load More Load More Get Out of Town Travel How to See Milan’s Magnificent Art and Design Scene in Two Days Make the most of a visit to Italy’s design capital, admiring Renaissance paintings, visiting contemporary art installations, and joining chic locals for fine dining and wine at Michelin-starred restaurants Travel Drag Legend and Travel Pro Sasha Velour Knows How to “Werq the World” The RuPaul’s Drag Race winner shares her favorite travel memory, dream cities to perform in, and tricks for traveling for drag Travel Barge Cruising Is a Slow-Travel Antidote to Overtourism Drift down narrow waterways on a small boat in the French countryside, sipping local wine and snacking on cheese with a handful of friends and family Travel How to Spend Two Family-Friendly Days on California's Central Coast Explore tide pools, feed farm animals, watch elephant seals, and make time for local wine and coffee for the adults Presented By Visit California More City Guides Discover the best things to eat, drink, and do with our expertly curated city guides.",
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"content": "Ziga Plahutar/E+/Getty Images Ziga Plahutar/E+/Getty Images Travel International Three Days in Cancun Without a Single Tourist Trap—Yes, It’s Doable Make the most of Cancun by embracing it for what it is: a frenetic hodgepodge created especially for you. By Rosie Bell Updated on Sep 11, 2024 at 9:54 AM Skip Ahead: Your Cancun Snapshot | Foodie Itinerary | Party People Itinerary | Travelers with Kids Itinerary | Where to Stay | Know Before You Go It is precisely because Cancun is a purpose-built hospitality haven that it seems totally geared towards the whims of tourists. Unbeknown to many, a dream team of bankers, architects, archaeologists, statisticians, sociologists, lawyers, government agencies, and urban planners converged in the late 1960s to create a tropical paradise in an untouched, industry-free location with consistently pleasant weather to draw visitors from around the globe. Decades later, Cancun is the poster child of the Mexican all-inclusive holiday. The iconic Cancun Hotel Zone (Zona Hotelera) is a slender sandbar shaped like the number \"7,\" boasting butterscotch-soft sands that extend for 14 miles, gracefully curving along the Nichupté Lagoon and the Caribbean Sea. It is extremely beautiful and also deeply polarizing. People love to hate Cancun but that doesn’t stop millions from jetting there to escape the quotidian. Tourism in Mexico has surpassed pre-pandemic numbers and Cancun International Airport (CUN) has the lion’s share of those passengers—5.46 million tourists flew there in the first half of this year alone. Cancun is somewhat fairly pigeonholed as a tourist Disneyland but for every glow-in-the-dark Señor Frog's plastic cup or tequila “museum” in the Hotel Zone, there is a low-lit cantina or passed-down-through-generations handicrafts store in Centro (also known as Downtown Cancun) where the people who keep the tourism machine alive reside. For the historians among us, Cancun has investigation-worthy Mayan ruins right within the city limits (El Meco, Yamil Lu’um, San Miguelito, and El Rey which is opposite Playa Delfines). For those wishing to explore further afield, eco-parks, island adventures, and even the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef await. The Cancun of today has appeal for a wide variety of groups beyond the beaches. Your trip isn’t complete until you… See: One of the thousands of cenotes scattered across the Yucatán Peninsula. Believed to be gateways to underworlds below, cenotes were created by the collapse of limestone caves, resulting in sinkholes with water as clear as blanco tequila. In these stalactite and stalagmite-having caverns, vines dangle, stairs descend, and they are a swimmer’s perfect jewel with some as close as 40 minutes from Cancun. Do your research and pick your cenotes wisely as some are uber-deep and best left to divers while others have major crowds and even lines of people waiting to take pictures (looking at you, Cenote Suytun). To escape the crowds, avoid “celebrity cenotes” like Cenote Dos Ojos near Tulum and Cenote Jardin del Eden near Puerto Aventuras. Instead, dip to your heart’s content at Cenote Yal-Kú when in Akumal or head out to Cenote Verde Lucero and Cenote Zapote at the Ruta de Cenotes near Puerto Morelos where 57 cenotes vie for your attention. Touch: Powdery white sand at one of the city’s standout beaches. Even Cancun naysayers can’t fault the city’s dreamy beaches. This year, Cancun’s Hotel Zone boasts 47 Blue Flag-certified beaches that meet high standards for safety, environmental management, and cleanliness. Visit Playa Marlin, Playa Pez Volador, or Playa Chac Mool, which is easily accessible without any resorts blocking entry. Smell: The inviting aroma of marquesitas being prepared in Parque de las Palapas. Marquesitas are crunchy rolled crêpes that are served as tubes. They are crispy like churros but filled with a blend of savory and sweet ingredients. The most common combination is Nutella and cheese—an unusual mix that isn’t as unappetizing as it sounds. While the savory-sweet combo might not appeal to everyone, the scent of that dough being spread on the piping hot griddle conjures one of the quintessential aromas of the Yucatán. Go to Parque de las Palapas in the evening to breathe it all in. Hear: Live mariachi band serenades. Passionate, moving, and deep-throated. Mariachi music may have originated in the Mexican state of Jalisco but that’s not to stop you from enjoying it in Cancun. You can find singers in vibrant costumes performing heartfelt folkloric songs at restaurants like La Parilla Plaza la Isla, Aristeo, Mextreme, seafood joint Va Q Va, or at Porfirio’s while you sample their 100-strong tequila and mezcal collection. Mariachis are also part and parcel of the experience at Xoximilcho, a riveting floating fiesta aboard a colorful gondola-like trajinera. Taste: Tacos, tacos, tacos. Honestly, did you even come to Mexico if you didn’t have one? A great taco has the power to unite people from all social strata like no man’s business. Whether you wish to stick to plain old pastor (spit-grilled pork slices) and seafood (tacos de pescado) or push the boat out with cow’s brain (tacos de sesos) or eyeballs (tacos de ojos), there’s a hand-sized taco treat with your name on it in Cancun. Since tacos are their raison d'être, you can expect pure scrumptiousness at Taqueria Coapenitos, brightly painted Gory Tacos, and at Tacun, which feels festive with a ceiling of hanging piñatas. Oh-so-flavorful filings can also be found at Los Meros de Jalisco which, uniquely for Cancun, also has Guadalajara specialty carne en su jugo (“meat in its juices”) on the menu. Cancun coastline at sunrise | Wei Fang/Moment/Getty Images _____________________________________________________________________ Things to do for foodies For the gourmand whose pantry is as colorfully cluttered as their passport is laden with stamps, Cancun shouldn’t be overlooked. There are resort kitchens helmed by Michelin-starred chefs as well as no-name, off-the-beaten-path carts serving award-worthy bites, and plenty in between. “It really has everything,” says Karen Garza, a private chef and sommelier in Cancun. Originally from Matamoros in the state of Tamaulipas, she has lived in Cancun for over a decade and urges foodies to embrace the city’s kaleidoscopic culinary identity beyond its touristy reputation. “You can find fresh and local ingredients, traditional Mayan cuisine, world-class restaurants, gastronomic events and festivals, seafood, regional dishes, international cuisine such as Italian, Greek, French, Japanese, and also cuts of meat; literally everything,” she says. 9 am - Fill up during a local-led street food tour. Mexican cuisine was added to UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity and the folks at Cancun Food Tours are utterly proud of that fact. Join them bright and early on their educational Textures of Mexico Cancun Street Food Tour to sample a variety of local breakfast dishes in places where locals eat. Each tour has a maximum of 10 guests so you’ll have ample elbow room and space to tilt your head to sidestep any taco spillage. 1 pm - Pick up a pretty charcuterie box at Delibox Mexico. When Karen Garza isn’t whipping up meals for visiting NFL players as a private chef, she runs Delibox Mexico where you can snag an elaborate charcuterie box serving two to 14 people. Certainly not the stereotypical Cancun purchase, these are fun for a beach picnic. Three times a year, Garza also hosts charcuterie board-making workshops and wine pairings in Spanish and English. 1:30 pm - Get a haul of hot sauces and spices at Chedraui Cancún Chac-Mool. Sure, you can pick up your desired condiments, sauces, and spices at the resort gift shop or even at an open-air market. However, there’s something refreshing and honest about shopping where the prices are fixed and nobody is trying to goad you into purchasing more. Additionally, these products will be much more economical at Chedraui than at the aforementioned establishments. El Frish Fritanga | Courtesy of El Frish Fritanga 3 pm - Feet-in-the-sand seafood and sunset at El Frish Fritanga. This thatch-roofed Hotel Zone seafood joint is so well known for its hospitality that fishing excursioners bring their hauls there for cooking. The oysters are fresh, the vibes are on point, and there are delightful, string-lit views of the Nichupté Lagoon. Shoes optional. 8 pm - Energetic dinner at Ilios. Liven up your culinary tour by making reservations at Ilios on a weekend (when it’s most pumping). This lagoon-front eatery helped fill the Greek food gap in Cancun with an elegant and extra cast of characters: DJs, sparklers, fire breathers, cocktails on fire, Greek goddesses, and belly dancers. Come for the plate breaking. 11 pm - Late-night tacos at La Cabañita. If you’re still famished after your day of deliciousness, head to this locally-adored after-hours spot in Centro which only opens at 7 p.m. Tacos come in fours, not the standard pair. Ilios | Courtesy of Ilios _____________________________________________________________________ Things to do for party people MTV immortalized it as a spring break destination for college kids in the 2000s, but Cancun doesn’t discriminate by age, nationality, persuasion, or how you like to get your merrymaking fix. Life-of-the-party types, young professionals, retirees, wedding parties, and live music lovers come to Cancun to let loose and meet people from around the world. Daphne Slaats, a Dutch teacher living in Cancun is a fan of the varied dusk-till-dawn party scene there. “I love the party boats, a fancy beach club after work, or amazing shows in big clubs at night,” she says. “When I feel more like a smaller, cozy place, I take the bus to the center for just 10 pesos (54 cents at the time of writing) and go salsa dancing at La Coyota.” Some of Cancun’s drinking holes need no introduction like HRoof and The City (Latin America’s largest nightclub). But there are also tucked-away gems like Mu Burger House which deserves a special mention for its dedication to stocking hard-to-come-by bottles of Mexican craft beers and its creative takes on the carajillo cocktail (known to some as the Mexican espresso martini). You can pretty much find a good time anywhere in Cancun, but Punta Cancun (also known as the Party Center or Plaza Party) is where the fiesta is at. It is situated in the North Hotel Zone at the intersection where the two parts of the “7” converge and it is a haven for both day drinkers and night hedonists. 10 am - Lively liquid breakfast at Mextreme. This place is unapologetically loud, colorful, and full of life. The waitstaff, often doing magic tricks and balancing trays or multiple drinks on their heads, bring an element of showmanship to your meal. Start your day with Mextreme’s famed green chilaquiles—tortilla chips drenched in a vibrant salsa verde, topped with crema, cheese, and a fried egg. This plate is rumored to zap away hangovers. 12 pm - Water sports at Playa Chac Mool. As one of the closest beaches to the Party Center—and some relatively inexpensive Hotel Zone hostels—there’s a playful, ready-for-anything energy on Playa Chac Mool. Surfers appreciate the strong tides and there are opportunities for sailing, parasailing, or hiring jet skis and banana boats. Mandala Beach Club | Courtesy of Mandala Beach Club 3 pm - Pose and preen at Mandala Beach Club. Regardless of which stage you find yourself on the detox/retox cycle, you’ll be in good company with the deep blue sea as your oasis of a backdrop at Mandala Beach Club in the heart of the Party Center. 7 pm - Marlin meals and big pirate energy at Marinero’s. Line your stomach and transition from a sun-soaked day to a vibrant night at Marinero’s. There’s a nautical theme throughout and live music that won’t burst your eardrums. The marlin burrito, seafood molcajete, and the Marinero’s Platter of calamari, shrimp, and breaded fish are standout menu items. 9:30 pm - Loud Latin beats at La Vaquita. You might never hear a single non-English song at some of the bars and clubs in the Party Center. Not at La Vaquita. Hip-hop is prevalent, but Daddy Yankee, Bad Bunny, and J Balvin would be proud of the reggaeton selection at this open-air house of perreo. La Vaquita | Courtesy of La Vaquita _____________________________________________________________________ Things to do for travelers with kids Cancun might be known for all-out bacchanalia, but dig a little deeper and you’ll find it’s also a playground for families looking to make great memories. “Cancun is a particularly fantastic destination for families of all kinds,” according to Yandra Orsini who is the senior brand amplification manager at Grupo Xcaret, which operates a wide range of theme parks, hotels, tours, and other sustainable experiences in the state of Quintana Roo where Cancun is located. “Visitors continue to flock to our beautiful region because there’s always something new to see, explore, taste, and experience,” she says. One of those new experiences is Toboganxote, which is reportedly the world’s only 5-in-1 waterslide at Xplor adventure park, located about an hour outside Cancun. On the experiences front, interactive museums like the Museo Maya de Cancún, offer an exciting way to introduce children to Mexico’s history and they can get up close and personal with wildlife on sea and land. Where lodging is concerned, many resorts in Cancun are family-friendly, boasting amenities like kids’ clubs, splash pools, and family-sized suites. Also, at some all-inclusive hotels like Moon Palace Cancun and select Hyatt Inclusive Collection properties, youngsters play, stay, and dine free of charge when accompanied by paying adults. If you want your kids well-fed, entertained, and engaged, there is big fun on the cards in Cancun. 10 am - Glass bottom boat tour to MUSA. Take your tots, tweens, and teens on a subterranean adventure without getting wet. Departing daily from Punta Nizuc, this 2.5-hour educational adventure offers a stunning view of the Great Mayan Reef and the Underwater Museum of Art (MUSA). Marvel at coral species, exotic fish, and captivating sculptures that were designed to encourage coral growth. 1 pm - Family lunch at La Vicenta. The whole gang can partake in the yumminess at La Vicenta but kids are the guests of honor. Children eat for free all day and the ‘Chentitos’ Kids Club puts on special activities for two to 11-year-olds. 2:30 pm - Ascend Cancun Scenic Tower. Standing 260 feet tall in the Hotel Zone, Cancun Scenic Tower (Torre Escénica) grants bird's-eye views of the city's chaotic beauty. The tower’s viewing platform lifts and lowers, making it accessible without stair-climbing so there’s no need to break a sweat. If you’ve got a bracelet from any Xcaret Group theme park or tour, the ride is on the house. Sandcastles on the beach | oversnap/iStock/Getty Images 3:30 pm - Sand castles at Playa Tortugas. The Hotel Zone is divided into North, Middle, and South Zones. The Middle and South Zone Caribbean-facing beaches have those postcard turquoise-hued waters with stronger currents. The North, shaped like the horizontal bar of the \"7,\" faces the calm Bahía de Mujeres with its waves tamed by Isla Mujeres a 30-minute ferry ride away. This is where you’ll find Playa Tortuga, which has shallow waters and a playground for kids to let their hair down in. 5:30 pm - Jolly Roger Pirate Show and Dinner. Step aboard and meet a crew of rowdy pirates swinging from ropes, battling with swords, and firing off cannons like it’s the golden age of piracy. All while you’re knocking back drinks and digging into grilled lobster or filet mignon. The night ends with a bang—literally—with fireworks lighting up the Caribbean sky. Check-in is from 5:30 pm at the Terminal Maritima Punta Sam pier. Jolly Roger Pirate Show | Courtesy of Jolly Roger Pirate Show _____________________________________________________________________ Where to stay Nizuc Resort & Spa ($$$$) If your fantasy Cancun vacation includes free-standing soaking tubs, private villas with tropical gardens, or even paddleboarding with your pets, the 29-acre Nizuc Resort & Spa is the place for you. While dogs munch on veal bone beef tartare and poultry sausage burritos, the rest of the clan have six outstanding restaurants to choose from as well as a Dom Pérignon wine cellar experience. Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach Cancun ($$$) Gem Spa at Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach Cancun is no secret among wellness aficionados. It’s a palatial 40,000-square-foot den of tranquility with 26 treatment rooms, a celebrated 10-step hydrotherapy ritual, and experiences inspired by gemstone therapy. Parents may be pleased to know there’s a separate Gem Spa dedicated to young ones aged between five and 15 years old. Live Aqua Cancún ($$) For a supremely stylish stay sans the pitter-patter of small feet, make reservations at Live Acqua Cancún, an adults-only, all-inclusive paradise. All 371 rooms have sea views and adjustable mood lighting, there’s a standout spa, seven pools at different temperatures, and a swim-up bar. It’s also right on a pristine beach with Blue Flag certification. Selina Cancun Lagoon Zone ($$) Selina is a powerhouse boutique hostel chain that launched in Panama in 2014 and soon took over the world, opening more than 80 locations in just six years. Like other outposts, Selina Laguna Cancun leans into its multihyphenate identity as a gathering spot for digital nomads (there are coworking facilities), tequila-thirsty partygoers, poolside sun worshippers, yogis, and backpackers with its enviable suite of amenities. This includes a tour desk, nightclub, and a movie room as well as shared and private rooms with TikTok-worthy wall art. Mayan Monkey ($) Your wallet and social life will thank you for booking a room at Mayan Monkey. Built on the site of what was once a Señor Frogs branch, the party goes on with cocktail-making classes, game nights, and live music. Mayan Monkey is a very social spot so you’ll likely have a slew of new amigos to hit the beach with, the closest being less than 10 minutes away on foot. Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach Cancun | Courtesy of Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach Cancun _____________________________________________________________________ What to know before you go The currency The currency used in Cancun is the Mexican peso (MXN). US dollars ($) are accepted in tourist zones but carrying pesos ensures you can pay without limitations and enjoy all experiences—street food, local eateries, markets, and more. At the time of writing, $1 USD exchanges for 18.65 pesos. International adapters you’ll need Cancun uses Type A and Type B electrical plugs, the same as those in the USA and Canada. Type A plugs have two flat pins, while Type B plugs include an additional grounding pin. Throughout Cancun and Mexico, the standard voltage is 127 V with a frequency of 60 Hz. When to plan your visit While temperatures are sunny and warm year-round in Cancun, be mindful of the Atlantic hurricane season from June to November, and sargassum seaweed on beaches from April to October (monitor the seaweed forecast groups and pages). For fewer crowds and better rates, consider the shoulder seasons of October to November and April to May. Those dreaming of swimming with whale sharks may do so between mid-May and mid-September. Do’s and don’ts when visiting Cancun Do pay attention to beach flags for safe swimming—green is safe, yellow means caution, red indicates danger, and black forbids entering the water. Also, protect marine life by using eco-friendly, biodegradable sunscreen in places like Garrafon Natural Reef Park in Isla Mujeres. Tap water is unsafe in Cancun so only drink bottled or filtered water. Your fun Cancun dinner party fact Nobody knows how the city’s name and spelling changed. It appeared on initial government documents as “Kan Kun,” which is Mayan for “nest of snakes” or “pot of gold.” Rumor has it that a clerical error was responsible for the change to the now-famous spelling. Want more Thrillist? Follow us on Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, and YouTube. Rosie Bell is a location-independent travel writer predominantly covering Latin America and the Caribbean. She has written for over 30 publications including BBC Travel, Forbes, Condé Nast Traveler, and Lonely Planet. An avid sun-seeker, her favorite destinations include the beaches of Mexico, Panama, Maldives, and Brazil. She has had the great fortune of calling the Mexican Caribbean home for over three years. Follow her on Instagram and read her informative musings on digital nomad life at DiscoverySessions.com. Sign Up for Next Flight Out Each week a Thrillist editor shares their first-person account of their latest adventure and inspo to help you plan your next trip. Subscribe I am 21+ years old By signing up, I agree to the Terms and Privacy Policy.",
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"url": "https://www.thrillist.com/travel/nation/things-to-do-budapest-hungary",
"page_name": "Best Things to Do in Budapest, Hungary: Restaurants, Museums and Culture - Thrillist",
"title": "Best Things to Do in Budapest, Hungary: Restaurants, Museums and Culture - Thrillist",
"content": "Travel Europe A Locals-Approved Guide to Budapest’s Hidden History and Hip Haunts The Hungarian capital is known for its rich cultural scene, but its best features are off the beaten track. By Jennifer Walker Published on Nov 12, 2024 at 9:00 AM Skip Ahead: Your Budapest Snapshot | Arts & Culture Itinerary | Counterculture Itinerary | Culinary Traveler Itinerary | Where to Stay | Know Before You Go When it comes to architecture, Budapest has a dramatic flair. The Hungarian capital’s eclectic style has long attracted the film industry, but it’s also an ideal destination for travelers who seek out cities rich with history, art, and culture. It's a compact city, and you can see the main sights over a long weekend, as much of the downtown area clusters around the Danube River. But Budapest's true charm lies in the places hiding in plain sight that can even take some residents years to discover. It's a city that's been shaped by its complex history and isolated by a language that shares nothing in common with those spoken by its neighbors. Hungarian is unlike any European language (except, as a distant relation, to Finnish). It's a country marked by occupation, from the Ottoman Empire to the Habsburgs, and then later the scars of the World Wars, revolutions, and decades of communism. If you know where to look, you'll find its history written on the walls, from the Turkish bath houses to bullet-scarred walls left behind from the uprising against the Soviet occupation in 1956. Tucked between the grand boulevards and palatial apartment blocks, you'll find small local galleries, bohemian hubs in dilapidated former factory buildings, and a vibrant cultural and culinary life. Whether it's history, art, food, nightlife, or a lively counterculture, Budapest has something for any curious traveler. Your trip isn't complete until you… See: Budapest from the Danube River. Take a stroll along the embankments or take a boat trip to see the best of the city from the water. Touch: Budapest's thermal waters. Budapest sits on more than 100 geothermal springs, each with its own mineral profile. There are more than 10 thermal baths, but the most spectacular are the Szechényi, Gellért, and Rudas baths, which incorporate a 16th-century Ottoman bathhouse. These spots are popular, so if you want to escape the crowds, try some of the lesser-known baths like the Lukács Baths or the Veli Bej, a former Ottoman bath house hidden inside a hospital. Smell: A glass (or more) of Hungarian wine. Hungary has excellent wine, from bold reds from Eger to sweet Tokaj dessert wines. Sample some wines or go to a tasting, like with Tasting Table, which is run by a Hungarian-American married couple. Hear: Budapest has an excellent music scene, from classical to contemporary. Try to take in a classical performance at MÜPA, a modern complex by the river with excellent classical concerts, or the newly opened House of Music in City Park. If you prefer something more modern, come in August when the famous Sziget Festival is in full swing. Taste: \"Whenever we think about a typical Hungarian dish, it's always paprika,” says Gabriella Andrónyi, a local culinary guide and the author of My Hungarian Cookbook. “The most important thing is to try gulyás soup and paprikás chicken because these are the iconic dishes we prepare at home.\" St.Stephen’s Basilica | Alexander Spatari/Moment/Getty Images _____________________________________________________________________ Things to do if you appreciate culture Budapest offers plenty for the art lover to admire. Excellent museums are scattered throughout the city, like the Museum of Fine Arts and the Ludwig Museum, both of which are worth visiting. It’s impossible, though, to manage everything in one day. If you're looking for a mix of architecture, fine art, contemporary art, and classical music, get a feel for Budapest's vibrant cultural and artistic landscape with the itinerary below. 9 am - Grab breakfast at Kelet Gallery and Cafe. Art Nouveau architecture, independent galleries, cafés, and design boutiques characterize Béla Bartók Boulevard, and Kelet has been an institution here for over a decade. This café is known for its rich coffees made with beans from a local roaster and tasty breakfasts, and also features wall-to-wall books on the ground floor and an art gallery on the first floor. Kelet Gallery and Cafe | Photo courtesy of Jennifer Walker 11 am - Discover a hidden art gallery in the Castle District. Head to the Koller Gallery, a hidden spot in the Castle District that's free to visit. They deal in fine art from local contemporary and historic artists, with a selection that would fit in a museum. Visit their ivy-clad garden with surrealist sculptures and head up to the top floor for views over the Danube and the Hungarian Parliament Building. 12 pm - Enjoy modern Hungarian cuisine in a former 17th-century inn. The Pest-Buda Bistro claims to be one of Hungary's oldest restaurants, occupying a former inn dating back to 1696. The restaurant retains a Baroque tavern-like vibe and offers homey and comforting food, with a menu focused on signature dishes like gulyás, chicken paprikás, and stuffed cabbage. Koller Gallery | Photo courtesy of Jennifer Walker 2 pm - Learn about Hungarian photography in two small museums. Hungary is famous for its photographers, with emigré names like Robert Capa, André Kertész, László Moholy-Nagy, and Brassaï having Hungarian roots. Head across the river and up Andrássy Avenue and you’ll find two small but excellent museums dedicated to photography. On one side of the boulevard, there’s the Mai Manó House of Hungarian Photography, residing in a house once belonging to a former imperial photographer that now exhibits photography. Across the road, you have the Robert Capa Contemporary Photography Center which features a permanent exhibition on Capa and temporary press photography exhibitions. Robert Capa Contemporary Photography Center | Photo courtesy of Jennifer Walker 5 pm - Grab afternoon tea at Café Zsivagó. Café Zsivagó is a bohemian coffee house around the corner from the Robert Capa Contemporary Photography Center that evokes a cozy living room from the 19th century. It's a popular spot with creative locals, notably for its selection of teas, alcoholic drinks, and homemade savory pastries and pies. Sometimes there's live jazz music here. 7:30 pm - Take in a classical concert at Liszt Ferenc Academy of Music. The Liszt Ferenc Academy of Music is striking architecturally, decked out with Zsolnay ceramics, stained glass, murals, and lashings of gold leaf. The academy hosts inexpensive concerts that begin at 7:30 pm almost nightly. Liszt Ferenc Academy of Music | Photo courtesy of Jennifer Walker _____________________________________________________________________ Things to do if you appreciate counterculture It can be tempting to stick to the top sights you can find in most any guidebook to this city, but Budapest's charms lie in its hidden spots. \"It's pretty tempting to tick off all the touristy sites, they're beautiful, but Budapest offers so much more,\" says Attila Höfle from BudapestFlow, which organizes tours of the city that focus on alternative culture. \"I'd recommend exploring the VIII District. Massive gentrification of the inner districts has pushed out alternative bars, independent galleries, artists, and small entrepreneurs into this part of town, and you can really find hidden and inspiring spots.\" This itinerary takes you around some of these spots to explore a different side of the city. 10 am - Breakfast at Lumen. This café inside a former downtown chemical factory on Horanszky utca, is popular with local bohemians, artists, and students. You'll find excellent egg dishes, granola, and Hungarian savory French toast called bundáskenyér for breakfast. Paloma Art Space | Photo courtesy of Jennifer Walker 11:30 pm - Get to know some local designers at Paloma Art Space. This unique space occupies a colonnaded courtyard with boutiques and workshops selling bags, jewelry, clothes, accessories, leather goods, and art from 50 local designers. You can even peek inside some workshops and chat with the designers yourself. 12:30 pm - Grab a soup and baguette at Bors GasztroBár. This hole-in-the-wall serves excellent street food, mainly soups and baguettes made with creative flavor combinations. The menu is seasonal, and you can anticipate a line, but the wait is worth it. 2 pm - Explore the street art of District VII. \"It's full of large murals, but also smaller, uncommissioned art, like stickers, paste-ups, by local and international artists, along with Hungarian political street art, like the ‘Hungarian Banksy' by the Two-Tailed Dog Party,\" Attila says. \"It's worth slowing down and taking a closer look.” Keep a look out while walking, or you can even do a street art tour to learn all the lore surrounding these pieces. Bors GasztroBár | Photo courtesy of Jennifer Walker 6 pm - Enjoy dinner among the cool kids. Café Csiga is a popular hangout for young creatives in the area, so it's always packed with a lively atmosphere. On the menu, you’ll find a mix of soups, from beef gulyás to Hungarian cold summer fruit soups, international dishes, and Central European fare, like sztrapacska, a Slovakian noodle dish made with potatoes and ewes’ cheese. 8 pm - End your night with a drink off the beaten path. Budapest’s District VII is also home to plenty of watering holes that are central to its countercultural spirit. \"You can find really hidden and inspiring spots, like Nyolcsésfél, an ex-communist block that was once the telephone exchange—it's a really ugly building, but it's filled with artist studios and galleries. It has a nice courtyard garden with a bar and a cool mural in the background.\" Alternatively, head deeper into the district to Gólya, a warren of rooms in a high-ceilinged industrial space that operates as a left-wing community space by day and a bar and party hub by night. VII District | A great shot of/Shutterstock _____________________________________________________________________ Things to do for the culinary traveler Hungarian food shares similar traits to its Central European neighbors, in that it's heavy on the meat and potatoes, but its signature spice—paprika—makes Hungarian cuisine stand out. However, Hungarian culinary tradition is also rich in its desserts, liqueurs, wine, and pickles. Trying to taste everything traditionally Hungarian will leave you feeling like you're going to roll home, so here's an itinerary you can do in a day that gives you the best tastes of those signature Hungarian flavors. . 9 am - Start the day with a sweet treat. Café Gerbeaud’s story began in the 1850s and still captures this old-world grandeur with its opulent interior with crystal chandeliers and silk-dressed walls. \"Try their iconic Gerbeaud cake, which is everyone's favorite recipe, as it's a classic all the grandmothers make. It was invented by the pastry chef,\" says Andrónyi. The iconic cake, also known by the Hungarian phonetic spelling, Zserbó, is made with flakey pastry layers, apricot jam, ground walnuts, apricot liqueur, and dark chocolate. Cafe Gerbeaud | Photo courtesy of Cafe Gerbeaud 11 am - Try the fried Hungarian dough at Retro Lángos. Once a kiosk outside the entrance to the Arany János utca metro stop, Retro Lángos gained such a cult following with both locals and tourists that they moved into a bigger, more comfortable spot across the road. Làngos is best described as a savory deep-fried dough topped with sour cream and cheese. It’s calorie-dense but so delicious! Best to share. 12 pm - Sample fresh sausages at Belvárosi Disznótoros. This is a standing-only place with tasty pork sausages. \"The name means ‘pig-killing dinner in the downtown,'\" says Andrónyi. \"These are what we eat when we kill the pig. The sausages with paprika and the sausages with rice and liver are typical of what we eat in the winter. I always recommend trying them with freshly grated horseradish and mustard.\" Belvárosi Disznótoros | Photo courtesy of Jennifer Walker 1 pm - Explore the culinary offerings at the Central Market Hall. This site occupies a striking cast iron and red brick building with cathedral-like proportions. Head to the basement for pickle stands and kiosks selling game meats, while the ground floor is known for its vibrant fruit and vegetables, meat, poultry, charcuterie, and cheese stalls. While here, grab some culinary souvenirs like paprika powder or a bottle of Pálinka, a traditional local fruit brandy. If you’d prefer a less-crowded alternative offering a similar experience, hop on the metro to Újbuda Központ and check out the Fehérvári Market. It’s set in a brutalist building left over from communist times and the first floor is packed with seasonal vegetables, fruit, and even stalls from small vendors like mushroom inspectors. Central Market Hall | RossHelen/Shutterstock. fornStudio/Shutterstock. 3 pm - Learn the history of Hungary's famous bitters. You'll find these orb-shaped bottles in every Hungarian bar. Unicum is a bitter liqueur intertwined with the history of the Hungarian-Jewish Zwack family. Legend says it was invented by a physician to the Habsburg court when the emperor had digestive issues. \"There are 40 kinds of herbs and spices inside, and we don't know what they are exactly because it's a secret recipe,\" says Andrónyi. Explore the story of unicum at the Zwack Unicum Museum, where you can tour the factory cellars and (of course) get a taste for yourself. 7:30 pm - Feast on Hungarian-Jewish cuisine at Rosenstein. Take tram 23 to Keleti Palyaudvar, and you'll be close to this family-owned restaurant serving excellent Hungarian and Hungarian-Jewish dishes. Definitely book ahead and try their acclaimed matzo ball soup or any of the duck or goose dishes on the menu. Rosenstein | Photo courtesy of Jennifer Walker _____________________________________________________________________ Where to stay W Budapest ($$$$) Opposite the Hungarian State Opera in the former Ballet Institute, the W Budapest revived this landmark that had stood abandoned for decades. It blends the building's architecture with modern design inspired by chess and the hotel's ballet heritage. The basement features a luxury spa resembling a hall of mirrors, paying tribute to Harry Houdini. There's on-site dining and a hidden cocktail bar serving drinks inspired by different eras and buildings of the city, with a speakeasy vibe. Mystery Hotel ($$$) Set in a former masonic lodge, the Mystery Hotel embraces its quirky past with surrealist decor and original Egyptian-style murals left behind. There's also a beautiful spa, with a hot tub enclosed in a glass conservatory and tropical foliage. In the summer, enjoy a rooftop bar with views overlooking the city. Inside, the main bar and restaurant occupy the former masonic ceremonial hall. Brody House ($$) This boutique hotel in the Palace District overlooks the Hungarian National Museum and occupies an old townhouse that once belonged to a famous doctor. Brody House embodies a shabby chic aesthetic, with exposed brick end chipped walls combined with work from local artists. There's an ivy-clad courtyard that’s home to the Garden Cafe, a Turkish brunch café and bar. W Budapest Hotel | Photo courtesy of W Budapest _____________________________________________________________________ What to know before you go How to get around Budapest has excellent public transit, with a network of trams, metros, and buses. It's best to get a pass, as you can travel without limits within the time your pass is valid. However, if you get a single ticket, validate it before getting on the metro, tram, or bus. A single ticket costs 450 HUF, a 24-hour pass is 2500 HUF, and you can buy tickets from ticket machines and counters or get a digital ticket on the BudapestGO app. Currency Hungary used the Hungarian Forint (HUF), roughly 370 HUF to the dollar. International adapters you'll need Hungary uses the standard continental European plug with two prongs, so if you’re bringing a generic European adapter, that will do. When to plan your visit The shoulder season is a good time to visit, as it's less busy than the middle of August during the Sziget Festival or December during the Christmas market season. Anytime is good to visit; it just depends on the weather, crowds, and what you'd like to do. Your fun Budapest dinner party fact Budapest has hundreds of caves carved out by thermal water. You can even go spelunking in the Buda Hills, but if you're a licensed cave diver, you can dive the world's largest known thermal water cave right in the city center opposite one of the thermal baths. Related Go to Budapest for the History, Stay for the Cake Delicious pastries await you around every corner in the Hungarian capital. Related Budapest's Ruin Bars Are Worth a Trip to Hungary Romkocsma are massive abandoned buildings that have been converted into bars and hangouts. Related The Most Popular Christmas Markets in Europe, Ranked The most Instagrammed spots during the most wonderful time of the year. Want more Thrillist? Follow us on Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, and YouTube. Jennifer Walker is a British-Hungarian ex-nuclear physicist turned writer living in Hungary. Although she has lived and worked in the UK, Germany, Spain, Georgia, and India, she returned to Budapest in 2013 to reconnect with her Hungarian roots. She writes about Central Europe and is co-author of Moon Prague, Vienna, and Budapest. Her work has been featured in CNN Travel, Lonely Planet, The Times (UK), The Independent, National Geographic Travel, Conde Nast Traveler, BBC Travel, and Time Out. She spends most of her free time discovering Budapest’s hidden places and secrets (which she sometimes shares on Instagram @jenniferdeborahwalker). Sign Up for Next Flight Out Each week a Thrillist editor shares their first-person account of their latest adventure and inspo to help you plan your next trip. Subscribe I am 21+ years old By signing up, I agree to the Terms and Privacy Policy.",
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"page_name": "Best Things to Do in Hong Kong: Island Hopping, Dim Sum, and More - Thrillist",
"title": "Best Things to Do in Hong Kong: Island Hopping, Dim Sum, and More - Thrillist",
"content": "xPACIFICA/Stone/Getty Images xPACIFICA/Stone/Getty Images Travel Cities A Locals-Approved Guide to Hong Kong’s Lesser-Traveled Gems From island hopping in search of uncrowded beaches to buying a meticulously crafted mahjong set, there’s a treasure trove of hidden gems that showcase the true heartbeat and history of Hong Kong By Izzy Baskette Updated on Jan 15, 2025 at 12:00 PM Skip Ahead: Don’t Leave Until | Nostalgic Traveler Itinerary | Nature Enthusiast Itinerary | Major Epicure Itinerary | Where to Stay | Know Before You Go Hong Kong is a region defined by juxtaposition. Peaceful, verdant peaks and cerulean-hued waters surround frenetic street markets and strobing neon signs. More than 800-year-old Taoist temples juxtapose against hoards of towering skyscrapers. Generations of lifelong locals reside alongside flocks of newcomer expats. These compelling contrasts and the eclectic mix of Eastern and Western influences have understandably earned Hong Kong the nickname Asia’s World City—although it’s technically not a city, but a special administrative region. When you expand your horizons past the top tourist attractions like Victoria Peak, the Big Buddha, and Hong Kong Disneyland, there’s so much more to Hong Kong. From island hopping in search of uncrowded beaches and stunning hikes to buying a meticulously crafted mahjong set from the region’s last woman mahjong tile carver, there’s a treasure trove of hidden gems that showcase the true heartbeat and history of Hong Kong. In this guide, you’ll find three unexpected schedules for how to spend a few days in the region—with tips and anecdotes from local creatives. We know it’s impossible to explore all 263 islands and 18 districts over the course of one trip, but these well-tailored recommendations are a solid start. Here’s a less touristy guide to what to do in Hong Kong. Don’t leave Hong Kong until you... See: Separating Hong Kong Island and the Kowloon Peninsula, Victoria Harbor is the jewel of the area. Previously called Hong Kong Harbor, or Fragrant Harbor before British imperialism forced its renaming in 1861, this expansive body of water was how Hong Kong transformed from a fishing village into a modern hub. Ferry rides aside, the best way to get out on the water is on a junk (a traditional Chinese sailing ship). Known for its characteristic red sails, the Dukling is the last regularly sailing antique junk the sunset cruise or Symphony of Lights sail, which allows spectacular views of Hong Kong’s nightly sound and light show. Touch: Some of Hong Kong’s most beloved inhabitants are not, in fact, people at all; they’re cats. Found outside of small businesses and slipping between vendor stalls, there are thousands of stray felines that call this region home. But these aren’t your typical big-city alley cats. Often fed and fashioned make-shift beds by residents, they make for a great picture and double as semi-professional rodent exterminators. If you successfully win their trust, they might allow for an under-the-chin scratch. They may not have houses, but this community of kitties has undoubtedly made Hong Kong home. Smell: Before you taste the culinary delicacies of the region, you’ll smell them. From the caramel-y sweet scents of egg tarts and toasty roasted chestnuts to the aromatically arresting fragrances of roast goose and wonton noodle soup, let your nose lead you to your next meal. A trip along the streets of Sham Shui Po—one of the oldest districts in Hong Kong known for its stalwart restaurants and textile shops—will present you with all of the above and more, including rice noodle rolls, chilled soy milk, milk tea, clay pot rice, and snake soup. Hear: Cantonese opera is like nothing most travelers have heard before. It’s uniquely melodic, intense, chaotic, and full of high-pitched falsetto notes. Just one type of Chinese opera, the Cantonese version is mostly performed in Hong Kong and the Guangdong Province of China. In addition to dazzling vocals, each performance combines elements of martial arts, acrobatics, acting, and elaborate wardrobes. Drop by the Sunbeam Theatre, which holds performances throughout the week. Additionally, during the summer months each year, the Chinese Opera Festival vibrantly showcases these time-honored talents across Hong Kong and China. Taste: A successful night out in Hong Kong means at least a shot or two of baijiu. Made from fermented grains and water, baijiu is a sweet and sometimes savory Chinese liquor that is served neat and at room temperature. Available at almost every restaurant and bar, it’s usually served as a shot during festivities or toasts. You can also try baijiu-centric cocktails at trendy bars like Bamboo. FYI: Cheers in Cantonese is gon bui! arkira/iStock/Getty Images _____________________________________________________________________ Things to do for the history-loving film buff In some parts of Hong Kong, time seems to stand still. It’s this sense of romance and quiet moments of beauty that has served as a muse for some of the world’s most prominent creatives. One of the best ways to appreciate this nostalgic essence is through the work of acclaimed Hong Kong-based director Wong Kar-wai, creator of films such as In the Mood for Love and 2046. His nonlinear and highly color-saturated works have drawn travelers to the region for decades and served as inspiration for emerging talents like filmmaker Jazzie Sillona. Originally from Qatar and of Filipino descent, Sillona has lived in Hong Kong since 2018 and spends most of his days creating content for his popular Instagram page, as well as running his production company Jazzie Films. “I first fell in love with Hong Kong watching Jackie Chan movies with my dad,” Sillona says. “I find inspiration from how compact and timeless [Hong Kong] is. In my Humans of Hong Kong series, I channel inspiration from Wong Kar-wai and Wes Anderson by capturing locals in authentic, unscripted moments.” The magic of Sillona’s instant film-filtered videos is that, other than a visible smartphone here and there, one could easily believe they were shot decades ago. Similar to Sillona, it’s completely possible to live out your own wistful daydreams of times past in Hong Kong, from catching a matinee of your favorite Kar-wai movie to sipping coffee under a canopy of vintage tchotchkes. And there’s no harm in trying your hand at some artistic videography while you’re at it. 10 am - Sip coffee among retro knick knacks. With every available square inch covered in vintage memorabilia, Fullcup Plant is a true love letter to the 1960s and ’70s. In a space that was originally occupied by a bing sutt (a traditional Hong Kong diner that serves chilled drinks and a small menu of snacks), diners can peruse the Japanese-inspired menu for dishes like the signature black wagyu beef rice bowl and astronomy-influenced drinks like the Venus Rose Latte. Turn your phone on Do Not Disturb and take in the owner’s quirky collection of ephemera from antique signage and literature to newspaper-covered ceilings and stained glass. 11 am - Source some secondhand fits. Dressing the part is crucial when it comes to truly turning back time. Needless to say, this requires a stop by a stylish secondhand store or two. Some of the best options can be found in Kowloon including Little Dot Vintage for duds sourced from the 1950s to ’80s, Midwest Vintage for American-made styles, Sing Jai Kee for ’90s apparel, and Retrostone for band tees and denim. Midwest Vintage | Photo courtesy of Izzy Baskette 1 pm - Purchase a hand-carved set of mahjong tiles. In a pocket-sized shop in Hung Hom, you can find Ho Sau-Mei: The only female mahjong-tile carver in Hong Kong. First starting her craft at 13 years old, Sau-Mei now helms the family business at Kam Fat Mahjong, which was first opened by her father in 1962. Each tile is a labor of love, meticulously carved every day by the store owner herself in the small workshop. With a rise in the popularity of mahjong across the world, especially among younger generations, the shop is experiencing a pleasant surge in popularity, so don’t be surprised if you encounter a waitlist. 2:30 pm - Catch a classic matinee. Lux Theatre is a true delight, according to Sillona and his dreamy Reel. Opened in the 1970s, this movie theater retains its original charm, down to its decades-old film posters and the solely hand-marked paper tickets that workers pass out stating seat assignments (these make for an exquisite souvenir). There is also an antique weighing machine, which was all the rage in Hong Kong throughout the 1960s and ’70s, as well as an old-school film projector from when movies still required the film to be closely monitored and manually loaded throughout the screening. The theater shows a mix of modern-day and throwback Hong Kong- and Chinese-made films. Otherwise, drop by the Hong Kong Film Archive, which hosts screenings of pivotal films throughout the month (usually around 11 am) as well as exhibitions and international film festivals. Hong Kong Film Archive | Edward Wong/South China Morning Post/Getty Images 6 pm - Have breakfast for dinner. The modern iteration of bing sutts, cha chaan tengs are affordable, fuss-free cafes that serve Hong Kong-style comfort foods. Sillona’s favorite is one that mimics the interior of a red minibus called Cafe Match Box. (Compact buses have been used as speedy public transit since the 1960s.) Located a bit off the beaten path in Causeway Bay, the eatery’s menu specializes in breakfast classics like Spam and noodles or omelets. Plus, the restaurant has a ping pong table out front for a pre- or post-dinner match. If your preferences tend to lean sweet over savory, you’re in good company with Sillona. He orders the same thing each time: Hong Kong-style french toast. “The bread is dipped into egg, pan-fried, and then covered with condensed milk,” he explains. “Some [diners] like peanut butter inside, but I prefer mine with just the condensed milk, and a lot of butter.” 10 pm - Take the stage at this late-night pastime that never goes out of style. First gaining popularity in the 1980s as it made its way over from Japan, karaoke (often called KTV in the region) is ingrained in Hong Kong nightlife. Particularly, this was people’s moment to live out their dreams of Cantopop stardom from Anita Mui and Leslie Cheung. There are still plenty of spots with expansive options for retro music primed for singing your heart out. Visit the reasonably priced gay bar Boo Bar in Kowloon or the cafe-lounge hybrid Cosmos in Causeway Bay, which offers light-filled private rooms and a dependable menu of small bites. _____________________________________________________________________ Things to do for the nature enthusiast For many first-timers to Hong Kong, it might come as a surprise how close to nature the thrumming metropolis actually is. In fact, nearly 75% of Hong Kong is made up of verdant parks and preserves, all of which are accessible by boat, bus, or subway. One way to truly disconnect from the hustle and bustle is by boarding a ferry to one of the region’s 263 islands. Slower paced oases like Cheung Chau—known for its annual Bun Festival which usually takes place in May—offer adventurers everything from stellar seafood to less-crowded hiking trails and serene swimming. Cheung Chau | @ Didier Marti/Moment/Getty Images 9 am - Escape the chaos via a scenic ferry ride. To get to Cheung Chau from Hong Kong Island, embrace the morning air and bask in the water views by taking a ferry. The ride takes between 35 minutes and an hour, and ferries run about every 30 minutes from Central Pier 5 on Hong Kong Island. The round-trip fare costs roughly $28 HKD ($3.60 USD). Seats aren’t assigned, so hop on early and secure a seat up top and outside for the best views. 10 am - Discover a heavenly hidden gem while hiking. Once on the island, you’ll be greeted by a swath of moored fishing boats swaying peacefully in the harbor and loads of local seafood restaurants. Before leaving the island’s main drag, stash a couple of pineapple buns from family-run and -owned bakery Kwok Kam Kee Cake Shop in your backpack for later. To avoid crowded paths like the Cheung Chau Loop, opt for a hike out to the majestic Angel Wing Rock (also called the Cheung Chau Fire Stone), a mythical rock formation that resembles an angel’s wing. Pak Tso Wan Beach | gionnixxx/iStock/Getty Images. Katherine MacCallum/iStock/Getty Images. 12 pm - Soak in the seclusion of an uncrowded beach. After your daring hike, a leisurely swim is in order. Instead of the island’s two main beaches (Tung Wan Beach and Kwun Yam Beach), opt for Pak Tso Wan Beach. Here you can enjoy your pineapple buns in peace, while soaking in the photogenic cove. Seeing that it’s a low-trafficked area, it’s good to note that there are no lifeguards or shark nets here. 3:30 pm - Recharge and socialize back on the mainland. After catching a ferry back to the mainland, the West Kowloon Art Park is an idyllic destination for continuing your fresh-air adventure. Located on the Kowloon side of Victoria Harbor, the park is a great place to laze around after a morning of hiking. Pick up a matcha tonic or shiso lemonade from the nearby Rest Coffee Gin, go for a walk along the promenade, or find a shaded spot by the water to play cards and take a nap. West Kowloon Art Park | Marc Fernandes/NurPhoto/Getty Images. josephmok/iStock/Getty Images. 7 pm - Find a verdant terrace for dinner and drinks with a view. Formerly the home of Hong Kong’s Supreme Court, this stunning landmark now operates as a venue for swanky restaurants and bars dubbed The Magistry. When weather permits, the property’s Botanical Garden is a can’t-miss destination. Although there’s a slight dress code (no ripped jeans or sportswear), spending an evening on the British-influenced, lush terrace is a mellow way to end an active day. Menu items include oysters, caviar, and small plates like smoked salmon and pastry puffs. The drink menu offers a wide selection of gin. 9 pm - Pamper your weary soles. After a long day of hoofing it, there’s nothing better than a foot massage. Using traditional Chinese practices of reflexology—applying pressure to specific points—foot massages are said to allow qi (one’s life force) to flow throughout the body to stay balanced. It also doesn’t hurt that they're generally inexpensive and available into the late hours of the night. For more luxe options, try the Chaun Spa and Massage or Ten Feet Tall. Meanwhile, cheaper alternatives include Gao’s Foot Massage and Tai Pan Reflexology Parlour. _____________________________________________________________________ Things to do for the food lover Whether it’s through glistening roast meats, juicy dumplings, crunchy clay pot dishes, or silky tofu pudding, the city’s local cuisine is treasured by those who consume and create them. According to Hong Kong native and chef Archan Chan of the contemporary Cantonese restaurant Ho Lee Fook, food is Hong Kong’s love language. “Usually, Asian parents don’t say I love you. You’ll never hear that,” she says. “But, every time I came home or went to my grandma’s place, my family would have homemade soups ready. Broths and soups are meant to be good for your body. This is how they showed their love.” Alongside beloved, longtime restaurant owners and vendors, younger generations are channeling childhood memories to keep the authenticity of Hong Kong cuisine intact. If the sound of dim sum in the morning, pineapple buns in the afternoon, and grilled char siu in the evening piques your interest, this food-centric itinerary is for you. Ho Lee Fook | Photo courtesy of Izzy Baskette 9 am - Expand your palate through local produce tasting. Start any trip to a new destination by visiting the local wet market, which is full of fresh produce, seafood, meat, and more. According to Christine Wong, author of the recently published vegan cookbook The Vibrant Hong Kong Table, it’s the first thing she does on every trip back to Hong Kong. She especially recommends Central Market in the Central District, the oldest market in Hong Kong. “It’s colorful, it’s exciting, it’s bustling,” she says. “Big trucks go barreling down in between the stalls, and it’s the best way to try unique fruits and vegetables and more.” Try some lychee and longan grown on the nearby islands, or mud crab and cuttlefish plucked straight from the surrounding water. 11 am - Order endless rounds of dim sum. Located within the historic Old Police Headquarters in Tai Kwun is the contemporary eatery Chinese Library. Here, the brunch menu dazzles without breaking the bank. Held every Saturday and Sunday from 11 am to 3:30 pm, diners can enjoy endless rounds of appetizers, dim sum, and shared plates for $63 USD per person. Popular choices include black truffle har gau, barbecue pork baos, turnip cakes, pork cheung fun, and braised wagyu beef. For an extra $20 USD, you can tack on unlimited prosecco. 1 pm - Practice sustainability at Hong Kong’s first zero-waste store. Since 2017, Live Zero is trailblazing the sustainability movement in Hong Kong. Owned by Tamsin Thornburrow (a self-ascribed eco warrior), the Sai Ying Pun grocery commits to a zero-plastic ethos by offering reusable glass containers to customers. Shoppers can peruse ethically sourced goods from spices, dried fruits, nuts, chocolate, loose leaf tea, candy, and supplements. There’s also a selection of clean beauty and home products to peruse. 2 pm - Snag delicate dinnerware as souvenirs. Porcelain is cherished in Hong Kong culture. And not only is it whimsically beautiful, but it doubles as delicate dinnerware. For this, there’s only one place to go: the last hand-painted porcelain factory in Hong Kong, Yuet Tung Chinaworks. Specializing in Guangcai (characterized by colorful designs painted on a white base), the shop is filled to the brim with vibrant plates, bowls, silverware, tea cups, and more. 3 pm - Learn how to cook traditional Sichuan cuisine. Although you might enjoy the local cuisine, learning what goes into making the food can give you a whole new level of appreciation. Learn the traditions and techniques of Sichuan cuisine from chef Theign Phan of Grand Majestic Sichuan. During the two-hour lesson, guests will cook in a wok, become more familiar with regional spices, and sip champagne. As Sichuan cuisine has become increasingly popular in Hong Kong lately, it’s a perfect time to join the trend. Char sui | ammyvision/Moment/Getty Images _____________________________________________________________________ Where to stay Four Seasons Hong Kong $$$$ For an ultra-luxurious lodging, look no further than the Four Season Hong Kong. Conveniently located in Central—near the ferry terminal, MTR, and plenty of shopping—the sleek, 42-story hotel is the ultimate home base during a trip filled with long days of exploration. In terms of in-room amenities, guests can choose their own pillows and mattress toppers, take advantage of 24-hour room service, and unwind in the rooms’ deep-soak tub. There are also two outdoor pools, a hair salon, spa, fitness center, and eight restaurants and bars. If you’re open to the splurge, the hotel is worth the investment. Tai O Heritage Hotel $$$ If an island escape is more your speed, trek over to Lantau Island for a stay at Tai O Heritage Hotel. Once a maritime police station, the renovated, 19th-century colonial-style hotel is truly boutique, with only nine rooms and suites available. The rooms are simple but chic, decorated in a nautical aesthetic. Although, there’s no pool or spa—which is no problem if your schedule is stacked with nearby explorations and departures from the hotel grounds. Guests can sign up for two-hour hotel tours, in which guides share fascinating architectural and historical facts about the hotel and island. Eaton HK | Photo courtesy of Eaton HK Eaton Hong Kong $$ Located in the Jordan district in Kowloon, Eaton Hong Kong is a certifiably cool lodging option. Run by a younger generation of Hong Kong natives, not only does the hotel offer stylish rooms, but also provides guests with a temporary community through programming like sound baths, yoga classes, art exhibitions, and DJ sets. The property also offers a co-working space, movie theater, rooftop pool, and fitness center. _____________________________________________________________________ What to know before you go The currency Hong Kong uses the Hong Kong Dollar (HKD). As of January 2025, $1 USD exchanges for $7.79 HKD. While most places accept payment using American credit cards, it’s recommended to always have cash onhand in case a particular vendor doesn’t. Some travelers also opt to open an Octopus card for their trip, which is a reloadable, prepaid card that can be used at businesses and for public transit. How to get around Hong Kong is incredibly pedestrian-friendly. But, if you’re traveling farther distances, taking the Mass Transit Railway (the local subway system) or snagging a ride via Uber is best. For the MTR, American cards can be used to pay for fares, which adds to its convenience. Although minibuses are romantic in theory, having a basic understanding of the city layout and minimal Cantonese language skills are definitely necessary as passengers have to call out to their stop to the driver. If you do choose to explore this option, we suggest the green minibuses over the red, as they usually have fixed routes and some have bells installed now to avoid yelling to the driver. Octopus or coins can be used to pay for fares. When to plan your visit Peak typhoon season runs from July to September in Hong Kong. Additionally, June and August are the wettest months of the year. So, the ideal time to visit is from October to December, when the temperatures are mild and the rainfall lightens. International adaptors you’ll need There are two plug types used in Hong Kong: Type D and Type G. The Type D plug has three round pins organized in a triangular shape, while the Type G plug has three rectangular pins in a triangular shape. Hong Kong’s standard voltage is 220V, with a frequency of 50Hz. Don’ts when traveling to Hong Kong CBD is illegal in Hong Kong, so do not pack any CBD or CBD-infused products. Although most are aware of the usual paraphernalia that can’t be packed while traveling abroad, CBD might slip an average traveler’s mind. We highly recommend double-checking all of your belongings before leaving for the airport in order to avoid any unwanted hiccups upon arrival. Advice from a local According to Sillona, a way to quickly make a good impression is to learn a few common Cantonese phrases or words. “Everyone appreciates people who speak the language,” he says. “It’s a sign of respect.” Your fun Hong Kong dinner party fact Hong Kong roughly translates to “fragrant harbor.” This name comes from the fact that Victoria Harbor was once lined with incense shops. Want more Thrillist? Follow us on Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, and YouTube. Izzy Baskette is the former New York City Staff Writer for Thrillist. Sign Up for Next Flight Out Each week a Thrillist editor shares their first-person account of their latest adventure and inspo to help you plan your next trip. Subscribe I am 21+ years old By signing up, I agree to the Terms and Privacy Policy.",
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"content": "Skip to main content Travel How to See Milan’s Magnificent Art and Design Scene in Two Days Make the most of a visit to Italy’s design capital, admiring Renaissance paintings, visiting contemporary art installations, and joining chic locals for fine dining and wine at Michelin-starred restaurants Shopping These LA-Based Experiential Gifts Have Total Wow Factor Nothing you can package up in a box compares to these one-of-a-kind experiences. Travel Drag Legend and Travel Pro Sasha Velour Knows How to “Werq the World” The RuPaul’s Drag Race winner shares her favorite travel memory, dream cities to perform in, and tricks for traveling for drag Travel Barge Cruising Is a Slow-Travel Antidote to Overtourism Drift down narrow waterways on a small boat in the French countryside, sipping local wine and snacking on cheese with a handful of friends and family Popular Reads Travel At Women-Only Dance Parties in Europe, Moms Just Want to Have Fun Family-friendly hours, plenty of Spice Girls, and, most importantly, no men makes for one helluva good night out Travel How Does Gen Z Travel So Much? Payment Plans Travelers are increasingly dependent on buy-now-pay-later lenders to make trips happen. Is wanderlust worth the debt and added interest? Travel Planning a Trip? AI Will Do That For You From Chatbot travel assistants to Instagram reel-generated itineraries, the latest AI innovations are transforming how we book a vacation Holiday From Anywhere Take a trip Take a trip Live Music Event Guides Take a trip Take a trip What Celebs Won't Travel Without Find Out Find Out Get ready to explore Thrillist Itineraries We turn your deepest passions into unforgettable travel experiences. Read More Guides & Destinations Neighborhood Guides Maps Travel Guides Inspiration Travel How to Spend Two Family-Friendly Days on California's Central Coast Explore tide pools, feed farm animals, watch elephant seals, and make time for local wine and coffee for the adults Presented By Visit California Travel How to Spend a Weekend in Yosemite With Kids Hike, bike, and explore one of the most beautiful places in the world with the whole family Presented By Visit California Travel Three Family-Friendly Days in Northern California’s Shasta Cascades Big water, big sky, and big family adventures Presented By Visit California Travel How to Spend Two Family-Friendly Days in Sonoma and Mendocino California's northern coast has whale watching hikes, kayaking, and lots of local wine and cheese Presented By Visit California Plan Your Trip Tips & Hacks What to Pack Lodging Flights Travel Alien Encounters and Ghostly Spirits on a Paranormal Road Trip Through the Southwest Chasing the supernatural — and the super kitschy — on a drive through the Arizona and New Mexico desert Travel Traveling with Presents? Here's What the TSA Wants You to Know Maybe don't wrap those holiday gifts just yet. Presented By Amazon Travel Flight Attendants Share Their Top Holiday Travel Survival Tips Take it from the pros before you go. Presented By Amazon Travel Staying in a Timeshare Might Be Your Best Travel Hack Yet It's also a great way to unwind and reset after the hectic holiday season. Latest Stories Travel Toast the Holidays at the World’s Most Magical Christmas Markets So merry, so bright. Presented By Amazon Travel The Wackiest Holiday Festivals and Events in the U.S. Change up your holiday traditions with lobster traps, tumbleweeds, and death-defying Christmas feats. Presented By Amazon Travel All Aboard the Most Festive Holiday Train Rides in the U.S. Live out your Polar Express dreams on these holiday train rides across the country. Presented By Amazon Travel How to Spend Two Sporty Days in Paris The City of Lights is also a city full of hoops, stadiums, and sneakers Travel Young Queer Christians Are Going on a New Kind of Pilgrimage After feeling cast out of their old houses of worship, religious-leaning LGBTQ young people seek welcoming pews, even if they have to travel Travel How to Spend Two Eco-Friendly Days in Texas Wine Country Raise a glass at organic wineries, pick up some low-impact souvenirs, stay the night at eco-conscious hotels, and explore Fredericksburg, the heart of Texas wine country Load More Load More",
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"url": "https://www.thrillist.com/eat/los-angeles/best-restaurants-in-san-gabriel-valley",
"page_name": "Best Restaurants in San Gabriel Valley: Good Places to Eat Outside LA - Thrillist",
"title": "Best Restaurants in San Gabriel Valley: Good Places to Eat Outside LA - Thrillist",
"content": "Bone Kettle | Dylan + Jeni Bone Kettle | Dylan + Jeni Los Angeles Eat Where to Eat in the San Gabriel Valley, LA’s Eastern Neighbor By Kat Thompson Published on Feb 12, 2020 at 12:04 AM Lester Guijarro/Flickr Arcadia, the city where I grew up, and the San Gabriel Valley as a whole, is home to hundreds of Asian Americans and immigrants, which in turn means excellent ma-and-pop restaurants. Of the approximately 525,000 self-identified Asian Americans that call the SGV home, almost two thirds of them were born elsewhere, according to a report by KPCC. And although a good portion of them are Asian -- specifically Chinese -- it’s important to note the regional diversity of the many cuisines. There are Sichuan specialty shops with oxymoronic spicy and numbing cold noodles. There’s Cantonese soup dumpling restaurants where the liquid-filled parcels are hand-wrapped, and Taiwanese cafes that feature porkchop rice. There are other surprising favorites, too, beyond the explosion of Asian flavors. A local Hawaiian restaurant run by a hardworking and stubborn auntie. A place where Hainan chicken is the well-known specialty, but Italian food favorites -- like creamy baked halibut and mushroom pizza -- are also worth a shot. A late night taco truck where people of all backgrounds gather for dollar tacos and slender glass bottles of Mexican Coke. A Japanese-American owned donut shop that’s open 24 hours a day, and produces one of Jonathan Gold’s favorite donuts. A burger spot that’s been open for over 50 years, where locals still sit in the no-fuss swivel bar stools and dive into fresh, beefy patties and pie. The San Gabriel Valley -- and the food within its confines -- has a quiet magic to it. The primarily homestyle cooking teems with the experiences of its creators. The more upscale spots are trendy yet unpretentious. As an Angeleno who’s rendezvoused at the Beverly Hills steakhouses, eaten fresh fish on the ocean-hugging west side, and watched the sunset on rooftops in Downtown LA, I can confidently say that no other neighborhood in the city of angels has the same heart as the food in the San Gabriel Valley. I mean, I guess there’s no place like home. Thirsty Cow Korean BBQ Thirsty Cow Korean BBQ Rowland Heights Premium all-you-can-eat Korean barbecue with endless banchan to choose from Korean barbecue is legendary in Los Angeles, but getting to K-Town from the east side of LA can be a bit of a hassle. Thankfully, Thirsty Cow exists. Thirsty Cow Korean BBQ is an all-you-can-eat spot in Rowland Heights where the quality of meat is worth the approximately $30 per person price tag. Choose from a long list of proteins, including short ribs, brisket, marinated pork, chicken, and shrimp (to name a few) and then keep the meat coming. And coming. And coming. The servers are attentive and will change your grill frequently to ensure there’s no crusty char on your meat. The sides are unlimited, and the steamed egg is divine. There’s cinnamon dusted grilled pineapple for dessert, which is absolutely as refreshing and delicious as it sounds. I typically need to roll myself out after a trip to Thirsty Cow, and it’s always worth it. Bhanu Indian Grocery & Cuisine Rosemead Half restaurant, half grocer with flavorful and unfussy Indian fare Bhanu is a discreet spot. Located in a random strip mall (as so many great LA restaurants are) next to what was formerly a Petco, the Indian restaurant-grocer combo doesn’t seem too enthralling from the outside. But this is why we learn not to judge a book by its cover; Bhanu is excellent. The brother and sister pair who started Bhanu once owned restaurants in Bombay, and brought their know-how and recipes -- much to the delight of all of us -- to the SGV. The array of samosas, regardless of the filling, is always pleasing. The masala dosa is crispy while the dough is perfectly tangy and stuffed with spiced potatoes. Popular dishes, like tikka masala, butter chicken, palak paneer, and lamb vindaloo, are executed just right and intensely flavorful. You can not go wrong here. And the best part of finishing a meal at Bhanu’s? Wandering the grocery aisles for snacks and sweets to take home. Young Dong Tofu Young Dong Tofu Arcadia Comforting tofu soups with an array of Korean classics like bulgogi and bibimbap You won’t find an AYCE deal for Korean barbecue at Young Dong, but what you get in its place are bubbling pots of sundubu-jjigae (or Korean tofu soup), platters of marinated bulgogi, a stunning Korean pancake layered with green onions and carrots, and enough banchan (aka small plates) to keep you full. Young Dong has always been the ideal spot for a rainy day meal; there’s just something that comforts you from the inside out when eating spicy soup loaded with cubes of soft tofu. Every soup order comes with a raw egg to crack into the boiling masterpiece, as well as cabbage kimchi, spicy cucumbers, and sesame bean sprouts. There’s an array of tofu soups to choose from, like kimchi, seafood, beef, and -- my personal favorite -- dumpling. If tofu soup isn’t enough, order a plate of bulgogi; I guarantee the meat, soup, and banchan will be plenty. Paper Pot Arcadia and Diamond Bar DIY platters of veggies and proteins cooked in fragrant soups within a surprising pot Hot pot is such a comfort food in the SGV, especially during the colder seasons. There’s nothing quite like the DIY spirit of the meal, where you can select your favorite meats, veggies, and broth, and leisurely cook them in a personal pot of boiling broth while simultaneously getting a steamy facial. Paper Pot seems gimmicky with its otherworldly paper pots that somehow boil soup bases without catching fire (thanks to some clever induction heating), but wading past that wow-factor you’ll find bright slices of well-marbled beef, baskets of fresh produce, and a wide selection of savory soups to choose from. The sesame sauce Paper Pot provides is nutty and earthy, while a yuzu-laced soy sauce is perfectly complementary to freshly cooked beef. Paper Pot is the perfect spot for a long lunch with a friend where you’ll get proteins, veggies, rice, and endless amounts of soup. Golden Deli San Gabriel and Temple City A beloved, Jonathan Gold-approved Vietnamese restaurant with generous egg rolls Golden Deli is a mystical place within the San Gabriel Valley, and no guide would be complete without mentioning it. The family-owned Vietnamese spot makes arguably the best pho in Los Angeles complete with cooked down bone broth, tender slices of ribeye, and bouncy rice noodles. But, like many Vietnamese spots, pho isn’t the only star. The grilled pork vermicelli bowl contains a generous portion of charbroiled, marinated pork, alongside fresh herbs and veggies atop a bed of thin vermicelli noodles doused with a sweet and funky fish sauce with pickled carrots. The chả giò, or fried egg rolls, possesses a crackly skin and is crammed with pork and served alongside platters of fresh veggies to lighten the appetizer. Dessert includes mung bean and pandan jelly coconut beverages, and a tart lemon soda perfects the meal. T.Tseng/Flickr Mian San Gabriel & Rowland Heights Tingly Szechuan food served with a cooling mung bean tea Mian serves a mindblow in a bowl. Of all the things to order at the noodle shop -- including a steamy bowl of spicy beef noodle soup and a delicate, souffle-like steamed egg topped with minced pork -- you must get the Szechaun cold noodles. The springy bowl of noodles is one of the most perplexing dishes I’ve ever had. Though the noodles are chilled, they’re fired up with chiles and Szechuan peppercorns, which deliver a numbing tingle to your tongue and lips. How can something be so hot and simultaneously so cold? To accompany the chile-laced noodles, Mian serves all its guests a soothing, chilled mung bean tea which is subtly sweet and deliciously nutty. Pork dumplings smothered in chile oil round out the meal. Beijing Pie House Monterey Park and Alhambra Northern Chinese spot specializing in flaky meat pies and lacey pan-fried dumplings It's not uncommon to order a meal entirely built from carbs at Beijing Pie House. In fact, I would venture to say that such a feat is encouraged. As its name suggests, Beijing Pie House specializes in Chinese meat pies, which can be stuffed with an array of meats and veggies; there’s summer squash and lamb, fennel and pork, and the classic combination of green onions and beef -- among another dozen or so options. And though the pies are the namesake of the restaurant, the menu stretches beyond them with a variety of mouth-watering options. The nutty dan dan noodles will tingle your tongue with Szechuan peppercorns, while the pan-fried dumplings don attractive and crispy lace skirts, hiding the juicy and meaty filling. Even something as simple as a green onion pancake is dressed in fragrant white pepper and cut to look like a bready rose. Be honest; no one is mad at consuming a carb-filled wonderland as a meal unless they’re unfortunately imprisoned by the keto diet. Bone Kettle Bone Kettle Pasadena Upscale-without-the-price Southeast Asian eats in trendy Old Town Pasadena Though the San Gabriel Valley is well known for cheap eats at cash-only spots, we can do high end Asian food, too. Take Bone Kettle, for example; situated in the center of Pasadena’s trendy Old Town, the Southeast Asian kitchen heavily influenced by Indonesian, Thai, and Malaysian cuisine brings forth eloquent dishes charged with the sophisticated flavors of the region. Their signature noodle soups are served with a beef bone broth that’s cooked for 36 hours and choice of varying tender proteins, like melt-in-your-mouth fatty brisket and braised oxtails. Round out your meal with an order of crispy chicken wings, fragrant pandan creme brulee, and a refreshing raspberry yuzu lemonade for the full experience. Cos&Pi South Pasadena Cozy brunch spot with fresh-baked pastries, bechamel-stuffed hashbrowns, and a memorable burger Though Cos&Pi is a relatively new restaurant, it's left an undeniably strong impression on me and other LA eaters -- especially in the brunch category. Cos&Pi is family owned and operated, so expect warm service, homemade pastries, and well-made comfort food. Highlights include a beef burger smothered with a fragrant and meaty bacon jam and glistening caramelized onions, crunchy bricks of hashbrowns au gratin stuffed with creamy bechamel sauce, and IG-worthy avocado toast delicately layered with edible flowers. This is an elevated neighborhood breakfast spot perfect for families, people with dogs, and anyone who wants to have an excellent meal. Bonus? You won’t have to fight for street parking or end up circling the block 14 times. Tacos La Doña San Gabriel Late-night taco truck with a huge selection of meats for an affordable price I live in New York now, and there's no denying New York City’s food scene is incredible. But, if there were ever a food to make me homesick -- aside from In-N-Out’s classic double-double -- it would be dollar tacos from my favorite food truck in the SGV, Tacos La Doña. The late night taco truck has been around since I was in high school, a beacon of light during intense midnight hunger pangs. For a mere dollar per taco, I’d load up on al pastor (marinated pork flavored with pineapple), carne asada (beef), suadero (beef brisket), carnitas (fried pork), and lengua (beef tongue) tacos before getting cozy on the trunk of my car and devouring the entire platter. An order of Mexican Coke is mandatory. Though the tacos aren’t a single dollar anymore, they’re still a steal at $1.25. A bonus is the salsa bar, where you can customize your tacos with lime, cilantro, onion, and a rainbow of salsas to your heart’s content. Cole Saladino/Thrillist Pie 'N Burger Pasadena No-frills classic burger and pie spot that’s been family owned and operated for decades In addition to having some of the best Chinese food in the country, the San Gabriel Valley is also home to one of Los Angeles’ best burgers -- in fact, the best burger according to our national burger critic, Kevin Alexander. This family-owned joint, which has been open since 1963, will timewarp you with its board menu, swivel stool bar seating, and no-nonsense selections. As the name of the diner-like spot suggests, I’d recommend going with the pie and, uh, burger. The char on the well-salted patty is mouth-watering, while the simple toppings -- lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, grilled onions, thousand island dressing, and a single slice of American cheese -- make for a perfectly balanced cheeseburger. Fries come out hot and fresh, and the pie selection is generous (I’d suggest the fresh strawberry if it’s in season, or the baked peach). Ocean Bo El Monte El Monte Casual, no-fuss Chinese food where the dim sum options are limitless and affordable Though Ocean Bo specializes in dim sum, you won’t find steaming push carts jamming into your chair legs or frantic aunties trying to push an additional plate of taro dumplings into your order here. Instead, Ocean Bo operates like two different businesses. In one entrance, the restaurant is treated more like a donut shop during the earlier hours, where diners can select an assortment of dim sum dishes to be packaged in styrofoam containers for take-out. The remainder of the restaurant operates like a typical sit down spot, where guests order dim sum dishes from a menu rather than flagging down the shumai cart that’s blown past them for the third time. Ocean Bo is simple, and the food is good, hearty, and affordable. Don’t expect velvet-backed chairs and luxurious carpeting. Do expect excellent dim sum at a reasonable price and a crowd on weekend mornings. Aloha Food Factory Alhambra Mom-and-pop restaurant specializing in Hawaiian favorites Like any legitimate mom-and-pop shop, the food at Aloha Food Factory comes out a bit slow, but is very obviously crafted with genuine care and a love for traditional Hawaiian dishes. Whatever you order, be sure to get a stack of macadamia pancakes to go along with it. It’s topped with a luscious macadamia cream sauce and crushed macadamia nuts, and the pancakes themselves are fluffy and griddled to perfection. My personal favorite is the Loco Moco, a hearty hamburger patty topped with yolky fried eggs and gravy, but you can’t go wrong with the savory kalua pork or Portguese sausage. Veronica/Flickr Savoy Kitchen Alhambra Hainanese chicken and Italian food that somehow goes together perfectly Savoy is one of those “if you know, you know” spots. Opened in 1982, the specialty of this corner restaurant on Valley Boulevard is a simple yet comforting dish of Hainanese chicken and rice. Each order comes with fragrant rice, juicy cuts of white and dark meat chicken, and a trio of sauces which may just be the highlight of the entire meal: a tongue-tingling ginger with bite, a zesty chile-based sauce with a healthy kick of acidity, and a balanced sweet-and-salty soy sauce. I’d also recommend getting an order of the creamy and butter baked halibut, which is topped with a rich, bubbling cheese. The halibut comes with either rice or pasta; I’d recommend getting rice and scooping cuts of delectable fish over it. And don’t forget: Orders of iced lemon tea are refillable and the perfect complement to whatever dish you end up getting at this Valley Boulevard mainstay. Jin Jiang San Gabriel Soup dumplings and stir fried Shanghainese noodles in a discreet plaza Tucked away in the corner of an unassuming plaza, Jin Jiang is the spot to frequent for hand-wrapped xialongbaos -- or soup dumplings -- that’ll make you forget that Din Tai Fung even exists. The unfussy xialongbaos are generously filled with your choice of pork or crab submerged in an uplifting, meaty broth and served with a mandatory side of ginger intended for diners to douse in black vinegar. In addition to the homely soup dumplings, Jin Jiang serves up a warming hot and sour soup, flaky green onion pancakes, and oil slicked Shanghainese fried noodles. Opt for the complementary hot jasmine tea, served in styrofoam cups, to cut through the heaviness of the meal. Thomas Hawk/Flickr Donut Man Glendora 24-hour donut shop well-known for seasonal favorites, like the fresh strawberry donut A trip to Donut Man is an adventure down route 66 that guarantees happy memories of stuffed balls of fried dough. The 24/7 donut shop churns out fresh yeast and cake donuts multiple times a day and has been owned and operated by the same man, Jim Nakano, for over 45 years. The seasonal specialties here are, in all honesty, some of the best donuts I’ve ever eaten in my life. Take, for example, the fresh strawberry donut: it’s only available during the warm berry season -- roughly from January until September in sunny Southern California -- but the limited time offer is a sphere of gooey, fruity heaven. You get a glazed yeast donut crammed full of easily 10 gigantic fresh strawberries. In the fall, Donut Man opts for creamy pumpkin and cinnamon-laced apple filled donuts. And you can’t go wrong with Tiger Tails: a twisted donut swirled with cinnamon sugar that’s available year round. Happy Family Restaurant Monterey Park Chinese classics made exclusively with vegetarian-friendly ingredients Happy Family Restaurant is a good name for this restaurant, as it allows meat eaters and vegetarians alike to leave perfectly pleased. Though the entire menu is plant-based, you wouldn’t be able to tell for some dishes; their version of orange chicken is on par with your favorite Chinese spot, despite being made from mushrooms. The menu is extensive but covers all Chinese favorites, like hot and sour soup, Singaporean noodles, fried rice, and more. And if you’re someone who really desires that meat flavor and texture, Happy Family Restaurant also has plenty of dishes with soy bean proteins. Trust me, you won’t miss meat when eating here. Sign up here for our daily LA email and be the first to get all the food/drink/fun Los Angeles has to offer. Kat Thompson is a Bangkok-born, LA-raised staff food writer. When not eating -- or writing about eating -- you can find her playing Settlers of Catan or reading sappy YA novels. Become a Local Insider in Los Angeles Get our expert guides to your new favorite city. Subscribe I am 21+ years old By signing up, I agree to the Terms and Privacy Policy.",
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"full_text": "================================================================================\nFULL TEXT EXTRACTION: Thrillist – Best SGV Restaurants\nURL: https://www.thrillist.com/eat/los-angeles/best-restaurants-in-san-gabriel-valley\nExtracted: 2026-01-10T18:22:49.627123Z\n================================================================================\n\n\n────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────\nPAGE 1: Best Things to Do in Athens, Greece: Restaurants and Museums to Visit - Thrillist\nURL: https://www.thrillist.com/travel/nation/things-to-do-athens-greece\nWords: 3,071\n────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────\n\nCavan Images/Getty Images Cavan Images/Getty Images Travel International Off-the-Beaten Path in Athens, Where Ancient Innovation Meets Modern Culture Explore Europe's oldest capital city through the footsteps of modern Athenians in three perfect days. By Olivia Ellis Published on Nov 1, 2024 at 11:51 AM Skip Ahead: Your Athens Snapshot | Local Culture Connoisseur Itinerary | Culinary Traveler Itinerary | Neighborhood Hopper Itinerary | Know Before You Go Dating back to 3000 BCE, Athens is synonymous with ancient history, democracy, and culturally rich mythology. But this sprawling city, home to 129 neighborhoods across more than 1,000 square miles, has much to offer visitors than just its storied past. Europe’s oldest capital city is now a living paradox of old meets new, where ancient ruins stand in stark contrast to a buzzing contemporary culture that’s pushing boundaries through its food, art, technology, and design. Formerly industrial areas have been transformed into vibrant social spaces with trendy cafés, bars, and cultural venues that “reflect the city’s artistic spirit,” in the words of Athens-based spatial designer Stavros Sgouros. While most visitors flock to the Acropolis or the busy streets of Monastiraki and Plaka, there's an overlooked side of Athens that shines brighter than the Parthenon's marble on an August day. In the time that has passed since the 2008 economic crisis, Athens has rebuilt itself, rising from the ashes of a modern Greek tragedy with renewed energy and creativity. In the first half of 2024, over 21.6 million passengers passed through Athens International Airport, a significant increase over the same time period last year and a testament to the city's renaissance. Most visitors come to Athens with simple goals of wandering the Acropolis and the Parthenon and indulging in traditional dishes like gyro and moussaka. But the heart of Athens beats strongest off the expected tourist path. It’s here, among the lesser-known neighborhoods, where you’ll find the city’s complex and inspiring history still echoing through the streets. If you’re keen to experience Athens like a local, you’ve come to the right place. Your trip isn’t complete until you… See: The panoramic sunset views from Philopappos Hill. Also known as the Hill of the Muses, Philopappos Hill rises gracefully over Athens, just steps away from the city’s iconic landmarks, but it feels like a world of its own. The brief climb to the top is like stepping back in time, with ancient ruins sprinkled along the path. Touch: The warm sand beneath your feet on a beach along the Athenian Riviera. Tourists often miss Athens' nearby coastline, just a short metro, bus, or tram ride away. In the summer, locals enjoy the hidden gem of the Athenian Riviera, relaxing at beaches like Kavouri or spending evenings visiting Bolivar, a lively beachfront bar. In cooler months, sip coffee by the sea at a café, such as Moorings in Voula. Smell: Richly scented spices along Evripidou Street. Athens is a sensory feast. Just past the central market is Evripidou Street, where the air is filled with the aromas of freshly ground spices like Greek saffron, thyme, exotic cumin, and cinnamon, along with the savory scent of pastourma (cured and spiced beef). Vendors and spice shops like Bahar, a local staple since 1940 with over 2,500 products, make this fragrant journey one not to be missed. Hear: Music under the moonlight at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus during Athens Epidaurus Festival or the unmistakable sound of bouzoukia. On the southern slope of the Acropolis, the ancient Herodeon theater hosts the Athens Epidaurus Festival from May to October each year, with performances from opera to ballet under the Athenian night sky. Beyond the summer, head to a bouzoukia, where live music, table dancing, swirling smoke, and thunderous beats fill the air. By morning, you’ll feel like an adopted Athenian. Taste: A rich tapestry of flavors in a meal at a local tavern in Koukaki. Koukaki, just beyond the historic center, is one of Athens’ best kept secrets for a traditional Greek meal. “Koukaki has modernized over the years,” says Maria Filindras, who grew up in the area, \"but the heart of the neighborhood, the connection to its food and community, is still the same.\" It’s the perfect spot to enjoy real Greek flavors away from the crowds, while still staying close to the city’s heart. Kerameikos | SEN LI/Moment/Getty Images _____________________________________________________________________ Things to do for the local culture connoisseur The first European Capital of Culture in 1985, Athens is swiftly transforming into a cultural hub where ancient legacies intertwine with a vibrant, gritty modern scene. Whether you’re interested in classical art or provocative urban graffiti, the city offers an authentic experience for every traveler eager to feel its creative pulse. While the Acropolis and its museum are essential for any Hellenophile, the privately owned Benaki Museum in the upscale Kolonaki neighborhood is often overlooked and features a comprehensive collection of Greek art from prehistoric times to today. Alternatively, visit the National Gallery, showcasing 1,000 paintings from the post-Byzantine era to modern Greece. For contemporary Greek art, Athens has numerous micro art galleries, particularly concentrated in Kifissia and Metaxourgeio. Music and theater are integral to Greek culture, celebrating ancient legacies and contemporary voices across generations. While summer days in Athens can be long and hot, locals eagerly await sunset, flocking to venues for live performances like the ancient Odeon of Herodes Atticus open-air theater and Technopolis, a late 19th-century gasworks facility transformed into a vibrant cultural complex. Bibliophiles will delight in Athens' independent bookshops. Lexikopoleio in Pangrati is a welcoming store with books in various languages and literary events. Evripidis in Chalandri spans four floors of global literature and was featured in Pan MacMillan’s list of beautiful bookstores worldwide in 2018. Ohh Boy | Photo by Thanasis Karanikas/ipolizei.gr, courtesy of Ohh Boy 8:30 am - Make your way to Pangrati for a modern Greek brunch at Ohh Boy. Greeks are known for their exceptional dishes, and breakfast is no exception. In the artsy neighborhood of Pangrati, Ohh Boy stands out as one of the best new spots in the city for a scrumptious, slow breakfast, featuring a delightful array of sweet and savory options, along with plenty of vegan choices. Indulge your sweet tooth with irresistible banoffee pie, and don’t miss the zucchini and corn pancakes as a savory main. 10 am - Dive into Athens' multifaceted urban landscape with a street art tour. Explore Athens’ vibrant neighborhoods and their intricate social fabric on a street art tour with Alternative Athens. This immersive experience offers a unique perspective on the city today, allowing you to look beyond the city’s ancient monuments and uncover the contemporary narratives that shape its modern identity. National Archaeological Museum | NurPhoto/NurPhoto/Getty Images 1:30 pm - Wander through antiquity at the National Archaeological Museum. Avoid the swarming crowds at the Acropolis Museum and instead, visit the National Archaeological Museum, home to one of the world’s largest collections of ancient and prehistoric art. Be sure to check out the famous Mask of Agamemnon, a remarkable gold mask unearthed at Mycenae, thought to represent the legendary king himself. Another highlight is the Antikythera Mechanism, a 2,000-year-old device considered by many to be the world’s first computer. 3 pm - Savor contemporary Greek tavern cuisine at Rozalia in the bohemian heart of Exarcheia. For dinner, head to the avant-garde, alternative neighborhood of Exarcheia, just a five-minute walk from the National Archaeological Museum. This underappreciated area, known for its rich anarchist history dating back to the 1940s, is home to Rozalia, celebrated for its exceptional mezze (small plates) set within an atmospheric, traditional garden, allowing you to savor a wide variety of dishes. The star of the show is the house moussaka, served and baked in clay pots. 9 pm - Catch a movie under the stars at Cine Thisio. Since 1904, Athenian locals have enjoyed films in open-air cinemas surrounded by seasonal blooms of deep purple and pink, a starlit sky, and a gentle breeze. Cine Thisio, along Apostolou Pavlou in the neoclassical Thisio neighborhood, stands out with its stunning views of the Acropolis and its renowned homemade sour cherry drink. Tickets are available only at the box office, so arrive early to secure yours. Cine Thisio | Photo courtesy of Cine Thisio _____________________________________________________________________ Things to do for the culinary traveler In Athens, food is more than sustenance; it’s a way of life. The moment you arrive in the Greek capital, you'll feel the city pulse with culinary traditions. For locals, a day often revolves around eating and drinking, creating moments to be shared with family and friends. And while traditional fare remains a cornerstone, Athens has evolved into a vibrant hub of fusion cuisine, offering a diverse array of flavors. Flavors and vibes vary by neighborhood. Psirri and Thiseio are rich in authentic Greek cuisine, while Koukaki and Pangrati offer a slower pace with fewer tourists. For a deeper connection to the city’s culinary heritage through the lens of a local, try a cooking class or join a food tour like the beloved Athens Food on Foot. Once the sun sets, Athens comes alive, showcasing its talent in mixology and oenology. While Greek wines may not be as renowned as their Italian peers, they offer unique flavors worth exploring. The area around the ancient necropolis of Keramikos, along with the lively district of Gazi, boast an artsy, LGBTQ+-friendly atmosphere filled with impressive cocktail bars. Whether you’re a purist eager to sample hidden gems or looking to dive into expertly alchemized cocktails, you’ve come to the right place. Kora Bakery | Photo courtesy of Kora Bakery 10 am - Sip a freddo cappuccino and grab a pastry from Kora Bakery. Start your day with a freddo cappuccino and modern Greek pastries at Kora Bakery in Kolonaki. Don’t miss the must-try rye cinnamon roll, and if you’re craving something heartier, their focaccia sandwiches are perfect, with olive oil rich focaccia that’s crisp on the outside, soft inside, and filled with seasonal ingredients like roasted vegetables, artisan cheeses, and savory cured meats. 12 pm - Get lost amongst the smells, sounds, and sights of the Varvakios Agora (Athens Central Market). Just a short walk from breakfast, Varvakios Agora, or Athens Central Market, is a foodie pilgrimage site. Established in 1884, the market lets you lose yourself in its vast, storied halls, soaking it all in. Check out Spyros Korakis’ stall in the fish market for a sampling of avgotaraho (Greek cured fish roe), and for a pre-lunch bite across from the meat market, Karayiannis serves up marinated anchovies and spicy lamb meatballs, the perfect mezze. Varvakios Agora, Central Street Market | Ivo Antonie de Rooij/Shutterstock. Lindasj22/Shutterstock. 1:30 pm - Take a cooking class at The Greek Kitchen. Skip the restaurant lunch and head to The Greek Kitchen in Monastiraki, where four friends teach you generations-old recipes. The class starts with sourcing fresh ingredients and ends with making classic dishes such as dolmades (stuffed grape leaves), spanakopita (spinach pie), and portokalopita (a traditional orange syrup cake). 3 pm - Dive into the world of Greek oenology at Athens Wine Tasting. With a full belly and new tricks, it’s time to explore Greek wines and learn how to pair your dishes. Just a 10-minute walk from The Greek Kitchen, Athens Wine Tasting offers an experience tasting wines from across Greece, guided by a certified expert who shares their history from ancient times to today. 9 pm - Dinner at Linou Soumpasis k sia in Psirri. This spot is one of the culinary highlights of Psirri, a former industrial area now vibrant with local creatives and food enthusiasts. The modern taverna offers Greek classics with a contemporary twist, like their Greek salad featuring creamy Greek brie and a standout lamb tagliata. Linou Soumpasis k sia | Photo courtesy of Linou Soumpasis k sia _____________________________________________________________________ Things to do for the neighborhood hopper While central Athens is vibrant, the suburbs, known as \"proastia,\" offer a quintessential escape into local life. Each neighborhood reveals authentic experiences away from tourist crowds, allowing you to uncover hidden gems and gain a deeper understanding of Athens beyond its busy center. Start by taking the metro southwest to Piraeus, the original capital of modern Greece. This port neighborhood, with its working-class roots, is in the midst of a glow-up driven by local creatives. For contemporary art, visit Rodeo, an art gallery featuring Greek and international talent. If you want a classic tavern experience, don't miss Stoa Rakadiko. Travel further south by bus or tram to the glamorous Athenian Riviera, which includes Vari, Voula, and Vouliagmeni. This stretch features pristine sandy beaches like Zen Beach and unpretentious taverns such as Kavouri’s Agora, which serves fresh Mediterranean dishes with a sea breeze. Local artist Sofia Pyrrou notes, \"Vouliagmeni feels like home, but Kavouri has a special pull, a calm that clears my mind and fills me with inspiration to create.\" Glyfada stands out as the commercial hub of the southern suburbs, buzzing with energy as locals and occasional celebrities gather to unwind, especially at sunset. On the city’s northern edge, a quick northbound metro ride away from the center, the suburbs offer a quieter atmosphere with an elegant charm. If you’re seeking leafy surroundings, scenic hikes, and impressive meals, Kifissia is the place to be. Sea Turtle Rescue Centre | Photo courtesy of Archelon Sea Turtle Rescue Centre 10 am - Unwind in the thermal waters of Lake Vouliagmeni. Either take a 40-minute taxi (around €30) or hop on the metro’s red line to Elliniko then take the 122 bus directly to Lake Vouliagmeni. Begin your day by soaking in the healing waters of this unique lake formed over 2,000 years ago. 12 pm - Lunch at a seaside tavern in Voula. After basking in the sun at one of Athens’ distinct natural wonders, take the 122 bus to Kavouri in Voula for lunch at a seaside tavern. The pedestrian pathway along Kavouri beach offers panoramic Mediterranean views and a variety of restaurants. For an affordable option, Tripia Varka satisfies seafood and ouzo cravings with its laid-back atmosphere, while Garbi, a local staple since 1924, serves up succulent seafood dishes. Sea Turtle Rescue Centre | Photo courtesy of Archelon Sea Turtle Rescue Centre 1:30 pm - Discover local conservation at The Sea Turtle Rescue Centre. Get hands-on with turtle conservation at The Sea Turtle Rescue Centre in Glyfada, just a 10-minute taxi ride or 20-minute bus from Kavouri. Tour the facility where injured sea turtles are rehabilitated before returning to the sea, supporting their survival since the 1980s. 3 pm - Explore the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center. “More than just a cultural venue, the SNFCC is an exemplary fusion of modern architecture and sustainable design.” says Sgouros. Hop on the T7 tram along the coast to the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center, where you can explore the expansive park, discover engaging exhibitions, enjoy panoramic views and delve into the rich collection at the National Library of Greece. The library includes over 4,500 ancient Greek texts, early works by Homer, and the impressive Byzantine dictionary The Large Etymological. 9 pm - Taste wines and small plates at Paleo Wine Store in Piraeus. Finish your day by taking the tram to Piraeus, Athens' energetic port neighborhood. Head to Paleo Wine Store, an extraordinary wine bar in a former tobacco storage facility, offering exceptional Mediterranean small plates and one of the largest wine lists you'll encounter. Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center | George Pachantouris/Moment/Getty Images. LOUISA GOULIAMAKI/AFP/Getty Images. _____________________________________________________________________ What to know before you go The currency Greece uses the euro (EUR) and, as of October 2024, $1 exchanges to .91€. Unlike many other southern European and Balkan countries, the majority of shops and restaurants in Greece accept credit cards, so don’t worry about exchanging cash. International adapters you’ll need When traveling to Greece, you'll need a Type C or Type F travel adapter, which features two round pins. Greece operates on a voltage of 230V and a frequency of 50Hz, so ensure your devices are compatible, or bring a voltage converter. When to plan your visit Athens often tops summer travel lists, but autumn and winter have their own unique charm, allowing you to enjoy the city’s rich history and culture without the crowds. Late spring offers warm weather and fewer tourists, making it perfect for swimming and a more authentic experience. The summer showcases Athens’ buzzing atmosphere and sun-soaked allure. Plaka historic district and Monastiraki Square at sunset | Alexander Spatari/Moment/Getty Images. Grant Faint/The Image Bank/Getty Images. Do’s and don’ts when visiting Athens Do take advantage of Athens’ efficient public transportation system, and try to avoid taxi rides in the city center due to relentless traffic. If visiting in summer, heed heat warnings and stay hydrated, as heat-related hospitalizations are on the rise. Don’t assume shops and restaurants will stay open late; many close early, especially in the off-season, so plan ahead. Most supermarkets are closed on Sundays, which can catch visitors off guard. Your Athens dinner party fact Beneath Athens lies a hidden web of tunnels, some dating back to ancient times, used over the centuries as drainage systems, aqueducts, WWII bomb shelters, and even secret smuggling routes. Today, only a few entrances are accessible, such as the Makrigianni Site beneath the Acropolis Museum, but these buried passageways reveal layers of history that most tourists (and even locals) don’t know exist. Related A Cheat Sheet to the Greek Islands, From Rhodes to Naxos Greece is home to thousands of islands—and these are the most magical. Related The Greek Beach That Looks Like the Moon Sarakiniko beach, on the island of Milos, is a hidden wonder. Related Forget Santorini—This Underrated Greek Island Has It All Pink beaches, ruins, hiking, and crowd-avoidance. Want more Thrillist? Follow us on Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, and YouTube. Olivia Ellis is a freelance travel writer currently based in Athens, with a passion for exploring her favorite place—Europe. Enthralled by diverse cuisines and local culture, she shares her travel experiences through her engaging content on YouTube. When she’s not creating, she loves to get lost in nature, always seeking the next great adventure. Sign Up for Next Flight Out Each week a Thrillist editor shares their first-person account of their latest adventure and inspo to help you plan your next trip. Subscribe I am 21+ years old By signing up, I agree to the Terms and Privacy Policy.\n\n\n────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────\nPAGE 2: Chicago - Best Restaurants, Bars and Things to Do in CHI - Thrillist\nURL: https://www.thrillist.com/chicago\nWords: 500\n────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────\n\nSkip to main content Events Three Perfect Days in Chicago—Without the Crowds Want to see a different side of Chicago? There are countless under-the-radar things to eat, see, and show the kids—and these itineraries can show you the way. Travel How to Spend Two Fancy but Affordable Days in Chicago Eat like a Top Chef, sweat with a sauna master, access rare art, and more tips to living large without going broke in the Windy City Events Everything You Need to Know to Go to Sueños, El Festival Latino In its fourth year, the Latine-centered music fest promises a second stage, a smooth entry, and a LATAM-spanning food menu Travel A Pet-Friendly Getaway to a Midwest Haven for Craft Beer and Cheese Also very popular: bratwursts, badgers, and the wiener mobile. Things to Do Travel The Midwest City with a Shockingly Authentic German Christmas Market Carmel is just 30 minutes north of downtown Indianapolis, but at Christmas it feels a world away. Travel The Ultimate Wellness Guide to Chicago Here’s how to unwind in the Windy City. Events 23 Things You Have to Do in Chicago This Year These are the must-hit festivals, concerts, events, and most fun things to do in Chicago this year. Travel The 10 Most Awe-Inspiring Abandoned Places Near Chicago From one of the most haunted locations in the U.S. to the long-forgotten Chicago Freight Tunnels. Travel The Prettiest Place for Public Art? Your Local Amtrak Station Waiting for your train just got a whole lot more artsy thanks to Amtrak’s new program. Travel The 'Hamptons of the Midwest' Is Finally Embracing Its Dungeons & Dragons Legacy \"I don't see anything dark, and I don't see anything nerdy.\" Travel The Midwest City that Boasts Some of the Quirkiest Museums in the U.S. Head to these altars dedicated to the Big Mac and Heinz Ketchup. Travel Let’s All Stop Underestimating Iowa This Midwest state is so much more than corn, caucuses, and flyover country. Load More Load More Get Out of Town Travel How to See Milan’s Magnificent Art and Design Scene in Two Days Make the most of a visit to Italy’s design capital, admiring Renaissance paintings, visiting contemporary art installations, and joining chic locals for fine dining and wine at Michelin-starred restaurants Travel Drag Legend and Travel Pro Sasha Velour Knows How to “Werq the World” The RuPaul’s Drag Race winner shares her favorite travel memory, dream cities to perform in, and tricks for traveling for drag Travel Barge Cruising Is a Slow-Travel Antidote to Overtourism Drift down narrow waterways on a small boat in the French countryside, sipping local wine and snacking on cheese with a handful of friends and family Travel How to Spend Two Family-Friendly Days on California's Central Coast Explore tide pools, feed farm animals, watch elephant seals, and make time for local wine and coffee for the adults Presented By Visit California More City Guides Discover the best things to eat, drink, and do with our expertly curated city guides.\n\n\n────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────\nPAGE 3: Best Things to Do in Cancun, Mexico, According to Local Experts - Thrillist\nURL: https://www.thrillist.com/travel/nation/things-to-do-cancun-mexico\nWords: 3,390\n────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────\n\nZiga Plahutar/E+/Getty Images Ziga Plahutar/E+/Getty Images Travel International Three Days in Cancun Without a Single Tourist Trap—Yes, It’s Doable Make the most of Cancun by embracing it for what it is: a frenetic hodgepodge created especially for you. By Rosie Bell Updated on Sep 11, 2024 at 9:54 AM Skip Ahead: Your Cancun Snapshot | Foodie Itinerary | Party People Itinerary | Travelers with Kids Itinerary | Where to Stay | Know Before You Go It is precisely because Cancun is a purpose-built hospitality haven that it seems totally geared towards the whims of tourists. Unbeknown to many, a dream team of bankers, architects, archaeologists, statisticians, sociologists, lawyers, government agencies, and urban planners converged in the late 1960s to create a tropical paradise in an untouched, industry-free location with consistently pleasant weather to draw visitors from around the globe. Decades later, Cancun is the poster child of the Mexican all-inclusive holiday. The iconic Cancun Hotel Zone (Zona Hotelera) is a slender sandbar shaped like the number \"7,\" boasting butterscotch-soft sands that extend for 14 miles, gracefully curving along the Nichupté Lagoon and the Caribbean Sea. It is extremely beautiful and also deeply polarizing. People love to hate Cancun but that doesn’t stop millions from jetting there to escape the quotidian. Tourism in Mexico has surpassed pre-pandemic numbers and Cancun International Airport (CUN) has the lion’s share of those passengers—5.46 million tourists flew there in the first half of this year alone. Cancun is somewhat fairly pigeonholed as a tourist Disneyland but for every glow-in-the-dark Señor Frog's plastic cup or tequila “museum” in the Hotel Zone, there is a low-lit cantina or passed-down-through-generations handicrafts store in Centro (also known as Downtown Cancun) where the people who keep the tourism machine alive reside. For the historians among us, Cancun has investigation-worthy Mayan ruins right within the city limits (El Meco, Yamil Lu’um, San Miguelito, and El Rey which is opposite Playa Delfines). For those wishing to explore further afield, eco-parks, island adventures, and even the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef await. The Cancun of today has appeal for a wide variety of groups beyond the beaches. Your trip isn’t complete until you… See: One of the thousands of cenotes scattered across the Yucatán Peninsula. Believed to be gateways to underworlds below, cenotes were created by the collapse of limestone caves, resulting in sinkholes with water as clear as blanco tequila. In these stalactite and stalagmite-having caverns, vines dangle, stairs descend, and they are a swimmer’s perfect jewel with some as close as 40 minutes from Cancun. Do your research and pick your cenotes wisely as some are uber-deep and best left to divers while others have major crowds and even lines of people waiting to take pictures (looking at you, Cenote Suytun). To escape the crowds, avoid “celebrity cenotes” like Cenote Dos Ojos near Tulum and Cenote Jardin del Eden near Puerto Aventuras. Instead, dip to your heart’s content at Cenote Yal-Kú when in Akumal or head out to Cenote Verde Lucero and Cenote Zapote at the Ruta de Cenotes near Puerto Morelos where 57 cenotes vie for your attention. Touch: Powdery white sand at one of the city’s standout beaches. Even Cancun naysayers can’t fault the city’s dreamy beaches. This year, Cancun’s Hotel Zone boasts 47 Blue Flag-certified beaches that meet high standards for safety, environmental management, and cleanliness. Visit Playa Marlin, Playa Pez Volador, or Playa Chac Mool, which is easily accessible without any resorts blocking entry. Smell: The inviting aroma of marquesitas being prepared in Parque de las Palapas. Marquesitas are crunchy rolled crêpes that are served as tubes. They are crispy like churros but filled with a blend of savory and sweet ingredients. The most common combination is Nutella and cheese—an unusual mix that isn’t as unappetizing as it sounds. While the savory-sweet combo might not appeal to everyone, the scent of that dough being spread on the piping hot griddle conjures one of the quintessential aromas of the Yucatán. Go to Parque de las Palapas in the evening to breathe it all in. Hear: Live mariachi band serenades. Passionate, moving, and deep-throated. Mariachi music may have originated in the Mexican state of Jalisco but that’s not to stop you from enjoying it in Cancun. You can find singers in vibrant costumes performing heartfelt folkloric songs at restaurants like La Parilla Plaza la Isla, Aristeo, Mextreme, seafood joint Va Q Va, or at Porfirio’s while you sample their 100-strong tequila and mezcal collection. Mariachis are also part and parcel of the experience at Xoximilcho, a riveting floating fiesta aboard a colorful gondola-like trajinera. Taste: Tacos, tacos, tacos. Honestly, did you even come to Mexico if you didn’t have one? A great taco has the power to unite people from all social strata like no man’s business. Whether you wish to stick to plain old pastor (spit-grilled pork slices) and seafood (tacos de pescado) or push the boat out with cow’s brain (tacos de sesos) or eyeballs (tacos de ojos), there’s a hand-sized taco treat with your name on it in Cancun. Since tacos are their raison d'être, you can expect pure scrumptiousness at Taqueria Coapenitos, brightly painted Gory Tacos, and at Tacun, which feels festive with a ceiling of hanging piñatas. Oh-so-flavorful filings can also be found at Los Meros de Jalisco which, uniquely for Cancun, also has Guadalajara specialty carne en su jugo (“meat in its juices”) on the menu. Cancun coastline at sunrise | Wei Fang/Moment/Getty Images _____________________________________________________________________ Things to do for foodies For the gourmand whose pantry is as colorfully cluttered as their passport is laden with stamps, Cancun shouldn’t be overlooked. There are resort kitchens helmed by Michelin-starred chefs as well as no-name, off-the-beaten-path carts serving award-worthy bites, and plenty in between. “It really has everything,” says Karen Garza, a private chef and sommelier in Cancun. Originally from Matamoros in the state of Tamaulipas, she has lived in Cancun for over a decade and urges foodies to embrace the city’s kaleidoscopic culinary identity beyond its touristy reputation. “You can find fresh and local ingredients, traditional Mayan cuisine, world-class restaurants, gastronomic events and festivals, seafood, regional dishes, international cuisine such as Italian, Greek, French, Japanese, and also cuts of meat; literally everything,” she says. 9 am - Fill up during a local-led street food tour. Mexican cuisine was added to UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity and the folks at Cancun Food Tours are utterly proud of that fact. Join them bright and early on their educational Textures of Mexico Cancun Street Food Tour to sample a variety of local breakfast dishes in places where locals eat. Each tour has a maximum of 10 guests so you’ll have ample elbow room and space to tilt your head to sidestep any taco spillage. 1 pm - Pick up a pretty charcuterie box at Delibox Mexico. When Karen Garza isn’t whipping up meals for visiting NFL players as a private chef, she runs Delibox Mexico where you can snag an elaborate charcuterie box serving two to 14 people. Certainly not the stereotypical Cancun purchase, these are fun for a beach picnic. Three times a year, Garza also hosts charcuterie board-making workshops and wine pairings in Spanish and English. 1:30 pm - Get a haul of hot sauces and spices at Chedraui Cancún Chac-Mool. Sure, you can pick up your desired condiments, sauces, and spices at the resort gift shop or even at an open-air market. However, there’s something refreshing and honest about shopping where the prices are fixed and nobody is trying to goad you into purchasing more. Additionally, these products will be much more economical at Chedraui than at the aforementioned establishments. El Frish Fritanga | Courtesy of El Frish Fritanga 3 pm - Feet-in-the-sand seafood and sunset at El Frish Fritanga. This thatch-roofed Hotel Zone seafood joint is so well known for its hospitality that fishing excursioners bring their hauls there for cooking. The oysters are fresh, the vibes are on point, and there are delightful, string-lit views of the Nichupté Lagoon. Shoes optional. 8 pm - Energetic dinner at Ilios. Liven up your culinary tour by making reservations at Ilios on a weekend (when it’s most pumping). This lagoon-front eatery helped fill the Greek food gap in Cancun with an elegant and extra cast of characters: DJs, sparklers, fire breathers, cocktails on fire, Greek goddesses, and belly dancers. Come for the plate breaking. 11 pm - Late-night tacos at La Cabañita. If you’re still famished after your day of deliciousness, head to this locally-adored after-hours spot in Centro which only opens at 7 p.m. Tacos come in fours, not the standard pair. Ilios | Courtesy of Ilios _____________________________________________________________________ Things to do for party people MTV immortalized it as a spring break destination for college kids in the 2000s, but Cancun doesn’t discriminate by age, nationality, persuasion, or how you like to get your merrymaking fix. Life-of-the-party types, young professionals, retirees, wedding parties, and live music lovers come to Cancun to let loose and meet people from around the world. Daphne Slaats, a Dutch teacher living in Cancun is a fan of the varied dusk-till-dawn party scene there. “I love the party boats, a fancy beach club after work, or amazing shows in big clubs at night,” she says. “When I feel more like a smaller, cozy place, I take the bus to the center for just 10 pesos (54 cents at the time of writing) and go salsa dancing at La Coyota.” Some of Cancun’s drinking holes need no introduction like HRoof and The City (Latin America’s largest nightclub). But there are also tucked-away gems like Mu Burger House which deserves a special mention for its dedication to stocking hard-to-come-by bottles of Mexican craft beers and its creative takes on the carajillo cocktail (known to some as the Mexican espresso martini). You can pretty much find a good time anywhere in Cancun, but Punta Cancun (also known as the Party Center or Plaza Party) is where the fiesta is at. It is situated in the North Hotel Zone at the intersection where the two parts of the “7” converge and it is a haven for both day drinkers and night hedonists. 10 am - Lively liquid breakfast at Mextreme. This place is unapologetically loud, colorful, and full of life. The waitstaff, often doing magic tricks and balancing trays or multiple drinks on their heads, bring an element of showmanship to your meal. Start your day with Mextreme’s famed green chilaquiles—tortilla chips drenched in a vibrant salsa verde, topped with crema, cheese, and a fried egg. This plate is rumored to zap away hangovers. 12 pm - Water sports at Playa Chac Mool. As one of the closest beaches to the Party Center—and some relatively inexpensive Hotel Zone hostels—there’s a playful, ready-for-anything energy on Playa Chac Mool. Surfers appreciate the strong tides and there are opportunities for sailing, parasailing, or hiring jet skis and banana boats. Mandala Beach Club | Courtesy of Mandala Beach Club 3 pm - Pose and preen at Mandala Beach Club. Regardless of which stage you find yourself on the detox/retox cycle, you’ll be in good company with the deep blue sea as your oasis of a backdrop at Mandala Beach Club in the heart of the Party Center. 7 pm - Marlin meals and big pirate energy at Marinero’s. Line your stomach and transition from a sun-soaked day to a vibrant night at Marinero’s. There’s a nautical theme throughout and live music that won’t burst your eardrums. The marlin burrito, seafood molcajete, and the Marinero’s Platter of calamari, shrimp, and breaded fish are standout menu items. 9:30 pm - Loud Latin beats at La Vaquita. You might never hear a single non-English song at some of the bars and clubs in the Party Center. Not at La Vaquita. Hip-hop is prevalent, but Daddy Yankee, Bad Bunny, and J Balvin would be proud of the reggaeton selection at this open-air house of perreo. La Vaquita | Courtesy of La Vaquita _____________________________________________________________________ Things to do for travelers with kids Cancun might be known for all-out bacchanalia, but dig a little deeper and you’ll find it’s also a playground for families looking to make great memories. “Cancun is a particularly fantastic destination for families of all kinds,” according to Yandra Orsini who is the senior brand amplification manager at Grupo Xcaret, which operates a wide range of theme parks, hotels, tours, and other sustainable experiences in the state of Quintana Roo where Cancun is located. “Visitors continue to flock to our beautiful region because there’s always something new to see, explore, taste, and experience,” she says. One of those new experiences is Toboganxote, which is reportedly the world’s only 5-in-1 waterslide at Xplor adventure park, located about an hour outside Cancun. On the experiences front, interactive museums like the Museo Maya de Cancún, offer an exciting way to introduce children to Mexico’s history and they can get up close and personal with wildlife on sea and land. Where lodging is concerned, many resorts in Cancun are family-friendly, boasting amenities like kids’ clubs, splash pools, and family-sized suites. Also, at some all-inclusive hotels like Moon Palace Cancun and select Hyatt Inclusive Collection properties, youngsters play, stay, and dine free of charge when accompanied by paying adults. If you want your kids well-fed, entertained, and engaged, there is big fun on the cards in Cancun. 10 am - Glass bottom boat tour to MUSA. Take your tots, tweens, and teens on a subterranean adventure without getting wet. Departing daily from Punta Nizuc, this 2.5-hour educational adventure offers a stunning view of the Great Mayan Reef and the Underwater Museum of Art (MUSA). Marvel at coral species, exotic fish, and captivating sculptures that were designed to encourage coral growth. 1 pm - Family lunch at La Vicenta. The whole gang can partake in the yumminess at La Vicenta but kids are the guests of honor. Children eat for free all day and the ‘Chentitos’ Kids Club puts on special activities for two to 11-year-olds. 2:30 pm - Ascend Cancun Scenic Tower. Standing 260 feet tall in the Hotel Zone, Cancun Scenic Tower (Torre Escénica) grants bird's-eye views of the city's chaotic beauty. The tower’s viewing platform lifts and lowers, making it accessible without stair-climbing so there’s no need to break a sweat. If you’ve got a bracelet from any Xcaret Group theme park or tour, the ride is on the house. Sandcastles on the beach | oversnap/iStock/Getty Images 3:30 pm - Sand castles at Playa Tortugas. The Hotel Zone is divided into North, Middle, and South Zones. The Middle and South Zone Caribbean-facing beaches have those postcard turquoise-hued waters with stronger currents. The North, shaped like the horizontal bar of the \"7,\" faces the calm Bahía de Mujeres with its waves tamed by Isla Mujeres a 30-minute ferry ride away. This is where you’ll find Playa Tortuga, which has shallow waters and a playground for kids to let their hair down in. 5:30 pm - Jolly Roger Pirate Show and Dinner. Step aboard and meet a crew of rowdy pirates swinging from ropes, battling with swords, and firing off cannons like it’s the golden age of piracy. All while you’re knocking back drinks and digging into grilled lobster or filet mignon. The night ends with a bang—literally—with fireworks lighting up the Caribbean sky. Check-in is from 5:30 pm at the Terminal Maritima Punta Sam pier. Jolly Roger Pirate Show | Courtesy of Jolly Roger Pirate Show _____________________________________________________________________ Where to stay Nizuc Resort & Spa ($$$$) If your fantasy Cancun vacation includes free-standing soaking tubs, private villas with tropical gardens, or even paddleboarding with your pets, the 29-acre Nizuc Resort & Spa is the place for you. While dogs munch on veal bone beef tartare and poultry sausage burritos, the rest of the clan have six outstanding restaurants to choose from as well as a Dom Pérignon wine cellar experience. Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach Cancun ($$$) Gem Spa at Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach Cancun is no secret among wellness aficionados. It’s a palatial 40,000-square-foot den of tranquility with 26 treatment rooms, a celebrated 10-step hydrotherapy ritual, and experiences inspired by gemstone therapy. Parents may be pleased to know there’s a separate Gem Spa dedicated to young ones aged between five and 15 years old. Live Aqua Cancún ($$) For a supremely stylish stay sans the pitter-patter of small feet, make reservations at Live Acqua Cancún, an adults-only, all-inclusive paradise. All 371 rooms have sea views and adjustable mood lighting, there’s a standout spa, seven pools at different temperatures, and a swim-up bar. It’s also right on a pristine beach with Blue Flag certification. Selina Cancun Lagoon Zone ($$) Selina is a powerhouse boutique hostel chain that launched in Panama in 2014 and soon took over the world, opening more than 80 locations in just six years. Like other outposts, Selina Laguna Cancun leans into its multihyphenate identity as a gathering spot for digital nomads (there are coworking facilities), tequila-thirsty partygoers, poolside sun worshippers, yogis, and backpackers with its enviable suite of amenities. This includes a tour desk, nightclub, and a movie room as well as shared and private rooms with TikTok-worthy wall art. Mayan Monkey ($) Your wallet and social life will thank you for booking a room at Mayan Monkey. Built on the site of what was once a Señor Frogs branch, the party goes on with cocktail-making classes, game nights, and live music. Mayan Monkey is a very social spot so you’ll likely have a slew of new amigos to hit the beach with, the closest being less than 10 minutes away on foot. Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach Cancun | Courtesy of Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach Cancun _____________________________________________________________________ What to know before you go The currency The currency used in Cancun is the Mexican peso (MXN). US dollars ($) are accepted in tourist zones but carrying pesos ensures you can pay without limitations and enjoy all experiences—street food, local eateries, markets, and more. At the time of writing, $1 USD exchanges for 18.65 pesos. International adapters you’ll need Cancun uses Type A and Type B electrical plugs, the same as those in the USA and Canada. Type A plugs have two flat pins, while Type B plugs include an additional grounding pin. Throughout Cancun and Mexico, the standard voltage is 127 V with a frequency of 60 Hz. When to plan your visit While temperatures are sunny and warm year-round in Cancun, be mindful of the Atlantic hurricane season from June to November, and sargassum seaweed on beaches from April to October (monitor the seaweed forecast groups and pages). For fewer crowds and better rates, consider the shoulder seasons of October to November and April to May. Those dreaming of swimming with whale sharks may do so between mid-May and mid-September. Do’s and don’ts when visiting Cancun Do pay attention to beach flags for safe swimming—green is safe, yellow means caution, red indicates danger, and black forbids entering the water. Also, protect marine life by using eco-friendly, biodegradable sunscreen in places like Garrafon Natural Reef Park in Isla Mujeres. Tap water is unsafe in Cancun so only drink bottled or filtered water. Your fun Cancun dinner party fact Nobody knows how the city’s name and spelling changed. It appeared on initial government documents as “Kan Kun,” which is Mayan for “nest of snakes” or “pot of gold.” Rumor has it that a clerical error was responsible for the change to the now-famous spelling. Want more Thrillist? Follow us on Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, and YouTube. Rosie Bell is a location-independent travel writer predominantly covering Latin America and the Caribbean. She has written for over 30 publications including BBC Travel, Forbes, Condé Nast Traveler, and Lonely Planet. An avid sun-seeker, her favorite destinations include the beaches of Mexico, Panama, Maldives, and Brazil. She has had the great fortune of calling the Mexican Caribbean home for over three years. Follow her on Instagram and read her informative musings on digital nomad life at DiscoverySessions.com. Sign Up for Next Flight Out Each week a Thrillist editor shares their first-person account of their latest adventure and inspo to help you plan your next trip. Subscribe I am 21+ years old By signing up, I agree to the Terms and Privacy Policy.\n\n\n────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────\nPAGE 4: Best Things to Do in Budapest, Hungary: Restaurants, Museums and Culture - Thrillist\nURL: https://www.thrillist.com/travel/nation/things-to-do-budapest-hungary\nWords: 2,925\n────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────\n\nTravel Europe A Locals-Approved Guide to Budapest’s Hidden History and Hip Haunts The Hungarian capital is known for its rich cultural scene, but its best features are off the beaten track. By Jennifer Walker Published on Nov 12, 2024 at 9:00 AM Skip Ahead: Your Budapest Snapshot | Arts & Culture Itinerary | Counterculture Itinerary | Culinary Traveler Itinerary | Where to Stay | Know Before You Go When it comes to architecture, Budapest has a dramatic flair. The Hungarian capital’s eclectic style has long attracted the film industry, but it’s also an ideal destination for travelers who seek out cities rich with history, art, and culture. It's a compact city, and you can see the main sights over a long weekend, as much of the downtown area clusters around the Danube River. But Budapest's true charm lies in the places hiding in plain sight that can even take some residents years to discover. It's a city that's been shaped by its complex history and isolated by a language that shares nothing in common with those spoken by its neighbors. Hungarian is unlike any European language (except, as a distant relation, to Finnish). It's a country marked by occupation, from the Ottoman Empire to the Habsburgs, and then later the scars of the World Wars, revolutions, and decades of communism. If you know where to look, you'll find its history written on the walls, from the Turkish bath houses to bullet-scarred walls left behind from the uprising against the Soviet occupation in 1956. Tucked between the grand boulevards and palatial apartment blocks, you'll find small local galleries, bohemian hubs in dilapidated former factory buildings, and a vibrant cultural and culinary life. Whether it's history, art, food, nightlife, or a lively counterculture, Budapest has something for any curious traveler. Your trip isn't complete until you… See: Budapest from the Danube River. Take a stroll along the embankments or take a boat trip to see the best of the city from the water. Touch: Budapest's thermal waters. Budapest sits on more than 100 geothermal springs, each with its own mineral profile. There are more than 10 thermal baths, but the most spectacular are the Szechényi, Gellért, and Rudas baths, which incorporate a 16th-century Ottoman bathhouse. These spots are popular, so if you want to escape the crowds, try some of the lesser-known baths like the Lukács Baths or the Veli Bej, a former Ottoman bath house hidden inside a hospital. Smell: A glass (or more) of Hungarian wine. Hungary has excellent wine, from bold reds from Eger to sweet Tokaj dessert wines. Sample some wines or go to a tasting, like with Tasting Table, which is run by a Hungarian-American married couple. Hear: Budapest has an excellent music scene, from classical to contemporary. Try to take in a classical performance at MÜPA, a modern complex by the river with excellent classical concerts, or the newly opened House of Music in City Park. If you prefer something more modern, come in August when the famous Sziget Festival is in full swing. Taste: \"Whenever we think about a typical Hungarian dish, it's always paprika,” says Gabriella Andrónyi, a local culinary guide and the author of My Hungarian Cookbook. “The most important thing is to try gulyás soup and paprikás chicken because these are the iconic dishes we prepare at home.\" St.Stephen’s Basilica | Alexander Spatari/Moment/Getty Images _____________________________________________________________________ Things to do if you appreciate culture Budapest offers plenty for the art lover to admire. Excellent museums are scattered throughout the city, like the Museum of Fine Arts and the Ludwig Museum, both of which are worth visiting. It’s impossible, though, to manage everything in one day. If you're looking for a mix of architecture, fine art, contemporary art, and classical music, get a feel for Budapest's vibrant cultural and artistic landscape with the itinerary below. 9 am - Grab breakfast at Kelet Gallery and Cafe. Art Nouveau architecture, independent galleries, cafés, and design boutiques characterize Béla Bartók Boulevard, and Kelet has been an institution here for over a decade. This café is known for its rich coffees made with beans from a local roaster and tasty breakfasts, and also features wall-to-wall books on the ground floor and an art gallery on the first floor. Kelet Gallery and Cafe | Photo courtesy of Jennifer Walker 11 am - Discover a hidden art gallery in the Castle District. Head to the Koller Gallery, a hidden spot in the Castle District that's free to visit. They deal in fine art from local contemporary and historic artists, with a selection that would fit in a museum. Visit their ivy-clad garden with surrealist sculptures and head up to the top floor for views over the Danube and the Hungarian Parliament Building. 12 pm - Enjoy modern Hungarian cuisine in a former 17th-century inn. The Pest-Buda Bistro claims to be one of Hungary's oldest restaurants, occupying a former inn dating back to 1696. The restaurant retains a Baroque tavern-like vibe and offers homey and comforting food, with a menu focused on signature dishes like gulyás, chicken paprikás, and stuffed cabbage. Koller Gallery | Photo courtesy of Jennifer Walker 2 pm - Learn about Hungarian photography in two small museums. Hungary is famous for its photographers, with emigré names like Robert Capa, André Kertész, László Moholy-Nagy, and Brassaï having Hungarian roots. Head across the river and up Andrássy Avenue and you’ll find two small but excellent museums dedicated to photography. On one side of the boulevard, there’s the Mai Manó House of Hungarian Photography, residing in a house once belonging to a former imperial photographer that now exhibits photography. Across the road, you have the Robert Capa Contemporary Photography Center which features a permanent exhibition on Capa and temporary press photography exhibitions. Robert Capa Contemporary Photography Center | Photo courtesy of Jennifer Walker 5 pm - Grab afternoon tea at Café Zsivagó. Café Zsivagó is a bohemian coffee house around the corner from the Robert Capa Contemporary Photography Center that evokes a cozy living room from the 19th century. It's a popular spot with creative locals, notably for its selection of teas, alcoholic drinks, and homemade savory pastries and pies. Sometimes there's live jazz music here. 7:30 pm - Take in a classical concert at Liszt Ferenc Academy of Music. The Liszt Ferenc Academy of Music is striking architecturally, decked out with Zsolnay ceramics, stained glass, murals, and lashings of gold leaf. The academy hosts inexpensive concerts that begin at 7:30 pm almost nightly. Liszt Ferenc Academy of Music | Photo courtesy of Jennifer Walker _____________________________________________________________________ Things to do if you appreciate counterculture It can be tempting to stick to the top sights you can find in most any guidebook to this city, but Budapest's charms lie in its hidden spots. \"It's pretty tempting to tick off all the touristy sites, they're beautiful, but Budapest offers so much more,\" says Attila Höfle from BudapestFlow, which organizes tours of the city that focus on alternative culture. \"I'd recommend exploring the VIII District. Massive gentrification of the inner districts has pushed out alternative bars, independent galleries, artists, and small entrepreneurs into this part of town, and you can really find hidden and inspiring spots.\" This itinerary takes you around some of these spots to explore a different side of the city. 10 am - Breakfast at Lumen. This café inside a former downtown chemical factory on Horanszky utca, is popular with local bohemians, artists, and students. You'll find excellent egg dishes, granola, and Hungarian savory French toast called bundáskenyér for breakfast. Paloma Art Space | Photo courtesy of Jennifer Walker 11:30 pm - Get to know some local designers at Paloma Art Space. This unique space occupies a colonnaded courtyard with boutiques and workshops selling bags, jewelry, clothes, accessories, leather goods, and art from 50 local designers. You can even peek inside some workshops and chat with the designers yourself. 12:30 pm - Grab a soup and baguette at Bors GasztroBár. This hole-in-the-wall serves excellent street food, mainly soups and baguettes made with creative flavor combinations. The menu is seasonal, and you can anticipate a line, but the wait is worth it. 2 pm - Explore the street art of District VII. \"It's full of large murals, but also smaller, uncommissioned art, like stickers, paste-ups, by local and international artists, along with Hungarian political street art, like the ‘Hungarian Banksy' by the Two-Tailed Dog Party,\" Attila says. \"It's worth slowing down and taking a closer look.” Keep a look out while walking, or you can even do a street art tour to learn all the lore surrounding these pieces. Bors GasztroBár | Photo courtesy of Jennifer Walker 6 pm - Enjoy dinner among the cool kids. Café Csiga is a popular hangout for young creatives in the area, so it's always packed with a lively atmosphere. On the menu, you’ll find a mix of soups, from beef gulyás to Hungarian cold summer fruit soups, international dishes, and Central European fare, like sztrapacska, a Slovakian noodle dish made with potatoes and ewes’ cheese. 8 pm - End your night with a drink off the beaten path. Budapest’s District VII is also home to plenty of watering holes that are central to its countercultural spirit. \"You can find really hidden and inspiring spots, like Nyolcsésfél, an ex-communist block that was once the telephone exchange—it's a really ugly building, but it's filled with artist studios and galleries. It has a nice courtyard garden with a bar and a cool mural in the background.\" Alternatively, head deeper into the district to Gólya, a warren of rooms in a high-ceilinged industrial space that operates as a left-wing community space by day and a bar and party hub by night. VII District | A great shot of/Shutterstock _____________________________________________________________________ Things to do for the culinary traveler Hungarian food shares similar traits to its Central European neighbors, in that it's heavy on the meat and potatoes, but its signature spice—paprika—makes Hungarian cuisine stand out. However, Hungarian culinary tradition is also rich in its desserts, liqueurs, wine, and pickles. Trying to taste everything traditionally Hungarian will leave you feeling like you're going to roll home, so here's an itinerary you can do in a day that gives you the best tastes of those signature Hungarian flavors. . 9 am - Start the day with a sweet treat. Café Gerbeaud’s story began in the 1850s and still captures this old-world grandeur with its opulent interior with crystal chandeliers and silk-dressed walls. \"Try their iconic Gerbeaud cake, which is everyone's favorite recipe, as it's a classic all the grandmothers make. It was invented by the pastry chef,\" says Andrónyi. The iconic cake, also known by the Hungarian phonetic spelling, Zserbó, is made with flakey pastry layers, apricot jam, ground walnuts, apricot liqueur, and dark chocolate. Cafe Gerbeaud | Photo courtesy of Cafe Gerbeaud 11 am - Try the fried Hungarian dough at Retro Lángos. Once a kiosk outside the entrance to the Arany János utca metro stop, Retro Lángos gained such a cult following with both locals and tourists that they moved into a bigger, more comfortable spot across the road. Làngos is best described as a savory deep-fried dough topped with sour cream and cheese. It’s calorie-dense but so delicious! Best to share. 12 pm - Sample fresh sausages at Belvárosi Disznótoros. This is a standing-only place with tasty pork sausages. \"The name means ‘pig-killing dinner in the downtown,'\" says Andrónyi. \"These are what we eat when we kill the pig. The sausages with paprika and the sausages with rice and liver are typical of what we eat in the winter. I always recommend trying them with freshly grated horseradish and mustard.\" Belvárosi Disznótoros | Photo courtesy of Jennifer Walker 1 pm - Explore the culinary offerings at the Central Market Hall. This site occupies a striking cast iron and red brick building with cathedral-like proportions. Head to the basement for pickle stands and kiosks selling game meats, while the ground floor is known for its vibrant fruit and vegetables, meat, poultry, charcuterie, and cheese stalls. While here, grab some culinary souvenirs like paprika powder or a bottle of Pálinka, a traditional local fruit brandy. If you’d prefer a less-crowded alternative offering a similar experience, hop on the metro to Újbuda Központ and check out the Fehérvári Market. It’s set in a brutalist building left over from communist times and the first floor is packed with seasonal vegetables, fruit, and even stalls from small vendors like mushroom inspectors. Central Market Hall | RossHelen/Shutterstock. fornStudio/Shutterstock. 3 pm - Learn the history of Hungary's famous bitters. You'll find these orb-shaped bottles in every Hungarian bar. Unicum is a bitter liqueur intertwined with the history of the Hungarian-Jewish Zwack family. Legend says it was invented by a physician to the Habsburg court when the emperor had digestive issues. \"There are 40 kinds of herbs and spices inside, and we don't know what they are exactly because it's a secret recipe,\" says Andrónyi. Explore the story of unicum at the Zwack Unicum Museum, where you can tour the factory cellars and (of course) get a taste for yourself. 7:30 pm - Feast on Hungarian-Jewish cuisine at Rosenstein. Take tram 23 to Keleti Palyaudvar, and you'll be close to this family-owned restaurant serving excellent Hungarian and Hungarian-Jewish dishes. Definitely book ahead and try their acclaimed matzo ball soup or any of the duck or goose dishes on the menu. Rosenstein | Photo courtesy of Jennifer Walker _____________________________________________________________________ Where to stay W Budapest ($$$$) Opposite the Hungarian State Opera in the former Ballet Institute, the W Budapest revived this landmark that had stood abandoned for decades. It blends the building's architecture with modern design inspired by chess and the hotel's ballet heritage. The basement features a luxury spa resembling a hall of mirrors, paying tribute to Harry Houdini. There's on-site dining and a hidden cocktail bar serving drinks inspired by different eras and buildings of the city, with a speakeasy vibe. Mystery Hotel ($$$) Set in a former masonic lodge, the Mystery Hotel embraces its quirky past with surrealist decor and original Egyptian-style murals left behind. There's also a beautiful spa, with a hot tub enclosed in a glass conservatory and tropical foliage. In the summer, enjoy a rooftop bar with views overlooking the city. Inside, the main bar and restaurant occupy the former masonic ceremonial hall. Brody House ($$) This boutique hotel in the Palace District overlooks the Hungarian National Museum and occupies an old townhouse that once belonged to a famous doctor. Brody House embodies a shabby chic aesthetic, with exposed brick end chipped walls combined with work from local artists. There's an ivy-clad courtyard that’s home to the Garden Cafe, a Turkish brunch café and bar. W Budapest Hotel | Photo courtesy of W Budapest _____________________________________________________________________ What to know before you go How to get around Budapest has excellent public transit, with a network of trams, metros, and buses. It's best to get a pass, as you can travel without limits within the time your pass is valid. However, if you get a single ticket, validate it before getting on the metro, tram, or bus. A single ticket costs 450 HUF, a 24-hour pass is 2500 HUF, and you can buy tickets from ticket machines and counters or get a digital ticket on the BudapestGO app. Currency Hungary used the Hungarian Forint (HUF), roughly 370 HUF to the dollar. International adapters you'll need Hungary uses the standard continental European plug with two prongs, so if you’re bringing a generic European adapter, that will do. When to plan your visit The shoulder season is a good time to visit, as it's less busy than the middle of August during the Sziget Festival or December during the Christmas market season. Anytime is good to visit; it just depends on the weather, crowds, and what you'd like to do. Your fun Budapest dinner party fact Budapest has hundreds of caves carved out by thermal water. You can even go spelunking in the Buda Hills, but if you're a licensed cave diver, you can dive the world's largest known thermal water cave right in the city center opposite one of the thermal baths. Related Go to Budapest for the History, Stay for the Cake Delicious pastries await you around every corner in the Hungarian capital. Related Budapest's Ruin Bars Are Worth a Trip to Hungary Romkocsma are massive abandoned buildings that have been converted into bars and hangouts. Related The Most Popular Christmas Markets in Europe, Ranked The most Instagrammed spots during the most wonderful time of the year. Want more Thrillist? Follow us on Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, and YouTube. Jennifer Walker is a British-Hungarian ex-nuclear physicist turned writer living in Hungary. Although she has lived and worked in the UK, Germany, Spain, Georgia, and India, she returned to Budapest in 2013 to reconnect with her Hungarian roots. She writes about Central Europe and is co-author of Moon Prague, Vienna, and Budapest. Her work has been featured in CNN Travel, Lonely Planet, The Times (UK), The Independent, National Geographic Travel, Conde Nast Traveler, BBC Travel, and Time Out. She spends most of her free time discovering Budapest’s hidden places and secrets (which she sometimes shares on Instagram @jenniferdeborahwalker). Sign Up for Next Flight Out Each week a Thrillist editor shares their first-person account of their latest adventure and inspo to help you plan your next trip. Subscribe I am 21+ years old By signing up, I agree to the Terms and Privacy Policy.\n\n\n────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────\nPAGE 5: Best Things to Do in Hong Kong: Island Hopping, Dim Sum, and More - Thrillist\nURL: https://www.thrillist.com/travel/nation/things-to-do-hong-kong\nWords: 3,854\n────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────\n\nxPACIFICA/Stone/Getty Images xPACIFICA/Stone/Getty Images Travel Cities A Locals-Approved Guide to Hong Kong’s Lesser-Traveled Gems From island hopping in search of uncrowded beaches to buying a meticulously crafted mahjong set, there’s a treasure trove of hidden gems that showcase the true heartbeat and history of Hong Kong By Izzy Baskette Updated on Jan 15, 2025 at 12:00 PM Skip Ahead: Don’t Leave Until | Nostalgic Traveler Itinerary | Nature Enthusiast Itinerary | Major Epicure Itinerary | Where to Stay | Know Before You Go Hong Kong is a region defined by juxtaposition. Peaceful, verdant peaks and cerulean-hued waters surround frenetic street markets and strobing neon signs. More than 800-year-old Taoist temples juxtapose against hoards of towering skyscrapers. Generations of lifelong locals reside alongside flocks of newcomer expats. These compelling contrasts and the eclectic mix of Eastern and Western influences have understandably earned Hong Kong the nickname Asia’s World City—although it’s technically not a city, but a special administrative region. When you expand your horizons past the top tourist attractions like Victoria Peak, the Big Buddha, and Hong Kong Disneyland, there’s so much more to Hong Kong. From island hopping in search of uncrowded beaches and stunning hikes to buying a meticulously crafted mahjong set from the region’s last woman mahjong tile carver, there’s a treasure trove of hidden gems that showcase the true heartbeat and history of Hong Kong. In this guide, you’ll find three unexpected schedules for how to spend a few days in the region—with tips and anecdotes from local creatives. We know it’s impossible to explore all 263 islands and 18 districts over the course of one trip, but these well-tailored recommendations are a solid start. Here’s a less touristy guide to what to do in Hong Kong. Don’t leave Hong Kong until you... See: Separating Hong Kong Island and the Kowloon Peninsula, Victoria Harbor is the jewel of the area. Previously called Hong Kong Harbor, or Fragrant Harbor before British imperialism forced its renaming in 1861, this expansive body of water was how Hong Kong transformed from a fishing village into a modern hub. Ferry rides aside, the best way to get out on the water is on a junk (a traditional Chinese sailing ship). Known for its characteristic red sails, the Dukling is the last regularly sailing antique junk the sunset cruise or Symphony of Lights sail, which allows spectacular views of Hong Kong’s nightly sound and light show. Touch: Some of Hong Kong’s most beloved inhabitants are not, in fact, people at all; they’re cats. Found outside of small businesses and slipping between vendor stalls, there are thousands of stray felines that call this region home. But these aren’t your typical big-city alley cats. Often fed and fashioned make-shift beds by residents, they make for a great picture and double as semi-professional rodent exterminators. If you successfully win their trust, they might allow for an under-the-chin scratch. They may not have houses, but this community of kitties has undoubtedly made Hong Kong home. Smell: Before you taste the culinary delicacies of the region, you’ll smell them. From the caramel-y sweet scents of egg tarts and toasty roasted chestnuts to the aromatically arresting fragrances of roast goose and wonton noodle soup, let your nose lead you to your next meal. A trip along the streets of Sham Shui Po—one of the oldest districts in Hong Kong known for its stalwart restaurants and textile shops—will present you with all of the above and more, including rice noodle rolls, chilled soy milk, milk tea, clay pot rice, and snake soup. Hear: Cantonese opera is like nothing most travelers have heard before. It’s uniquely melodic, intense, chaotic, and full of high-pitched falsetto notes. Just one type of Chinese opera, the Cantonese version is mostly performed in Hong Kong and the Guangdong Province of China. In addition to dazzling vocals, each performance combines elements of martial arts, acrobatics, acting, and elaborate wardrobes. Drop by the Sunbeam Theatre, which holds performances throughout the week. Additionally, during the summer months each year, the Chinese Opera Festival vibrantly showcases these time-honored talents across Hong Kong and China. Taste: A successful night out in Hong Kong means at least a shot or two of baijiu. Made from fermented grains and water, baijiu is a sweet and sometimes savory Chinese liquor that is served neat and at room temperature. Available at almost every restaurant and bar, it’s usually served as a shot during festivities or toasts. You can also try baijiu-centric cocktails at trendy bars like Bamboo. FYI: Cheers in Cantonese is gon bui! arkira/iStock/Getty Images _____________________________________________________________________ Things to do for the history-loving film buff In some parts of Hong Kong, time seems to stand still. It’s this sense of romance and quiet moments of beauty that has served as a muse for some of the world’s most prominent creatives. One of the best ways to appreciate this nostalgic essence is through the work of acclaimed Hong Kong-based director Wong Kar-wai, creator of films such as In the Mood for Love and 2046. His nonlinear and highly color-saturated works have drawn travelers to the region for decades and served as inspiration for emerging talents like filmmaker Jazzie Sillona. Originally from Qatar and of Filipino descent, Sillona has lived in Hong Kong since 2018 and spends most of his days creating content for his popular Instagram page, as well as running his production company Jazzie Films. “I first fell in love with Hong Kong watching Jackie Chan movies with my dad,” Sillona says. “I find inspiration from how compact and timeless [Hong Kong] is. In my Humans of Hong Kong series, I channel inspiration from Wong Kar-wai and Wes Anderson by capturing locals in authentic, unscripted moments.” The magic of Sillona’s instant film-filtered videos is that, other than a visible smartphone here and there, one could easily believe they were shot decades ago. Similar to Sillona, it’s completely possible to live out your own wistful daydreams of times past in Hong Kong, from catching a matinee of your favorite Kar-wai movie to sipping coffee under a canopy of vintage tchotchkes. And there’s no harm in trying your hand at some artistic videography while you’re at it. 10 am - Sip coffee among retro knick knacks. With every available square inch covered in vintage memorabilia, Fullcup Plant is a true love letter to the 1960s and ’70s. In a space that was originally occupied by a bing sutt (a traditional Hong Kong diner that serves chilled drinks and a small menu of snacks), diners can peruse the Japanese-inspired menu for dishes like the signature black wagyu beef rice bowl and astronomy-influenced drinks like the Venus Rose Latte. Turn your phone on Do Not Disturb and take in the owner’s quirky collection of ephemera from antique signage and literature to newspaper-covered ceilings and stained glass. 11 am - Source some secondhand fits. Dressing the part is crucial when it comes to truly turning back time. Needless to say, this requires a stop by a stylish secondhand store or two. Some of the best options can be found in Kowloon including Little Dot Vintage for duds sourced from the 1950s to ’80s, Midwest Vintage for American-made styles, Sing Jai Kee for ’90s apparel, and Retrostone for band tees and denim. Midwest Vintage | Photo courtesy of Izzy Baskette 1 pm - Purchase a hand-carved set of mahjong tiles. In a pocket-sized shop in Hung Hom, you can find Ho Sau-Mei: The only female mahjong-tile carver in Hong Kong. First starting her craft at 13 years old, Sau-Mei now helms the family business at Kam Fat Mahjong, which was first opened by her father in 1962. Each tile is a labor of love, meticulously carved every day by the store owner herself in the small workshop. With a rise in the popularity of mahjong across the world, especially among younger generations, the shop is experiencing a pleasant surge in popularity, so don’t be surprised if you encounter a waitlist. 2:30 pm - Catch a classic matinee. Lux Theatre is a true delight, according to Sillona and his dreamy Reel. Opened in the 1970s, this movie theater retains its original charm, down to its decades-old film posters and the solely hand-marked paper tickets that workers pass out stating seat assignments (these make for an exquisite souvenir). There is also an antique weighing machine, which was all the rage in Hong Kong throughout the 1960s and ’70s, as well as an old-school film projector from when movies still required the film to be closely monitored and manually loaded throughout the screening. The theater shows a mix of modern-day and throwback Hong Kong- and Chinese-made films. Otherwise, drop by the Hong Kong Film Archive, which hosts screenings of pivotal films throughout the month (usually around 11 am) as well as exhibitions and international film festivals. Hong Kong Film Archive | Edward Wong/South China Morning Post/Getty Images 6 pm - Have breakfast for dinner. The modern iteration of bing sutts, cha chaan tengs are affordable, fuss-free cafes that serve Hong Kong-style comfort foods. Sillona’s favorite is one that mimics the interior of a red minibus called Cafe Match Box. (Compact buses have been used as speedy public transit since the 1960s.) Located a bit off the beaten path in Causeway Bay, the eatery’s menu specializes in breakfast classics like Spam and noodles or omelets. Plus, the restaurant has a ping pong table out front for a pre- or post-dinner match. If your preferences tend to lean sweet over savory, you’re in good company with Sillona. He orders the same thing each time: Hong Kong-style french toast. “The bread is dipped into egg, pan-fried, and then covered with condensed milk,” he explains. “Some [diners] like peanut butter inside, but I prefer mine with just the condensed milk, and a lot of butter.” 10 pm - Take the stage at this late-night pastime that never goes out of style. First gaining popularity in the 1980s as it made its way over from Japan, karaoke (often called KTV in the region) is ingrained in Hong Kong nightlife. Particularly, this was people’s moment to live out their dreams of Cantopop stardom from Anita Mui and Leslie Cheung. There are still plenty of spots with expansive options for retro music primed for singing your heart out. Visit the reasonably priced gay bar Boo Bar in Kowloon or the cafe-lounge hybrid Cosmos in Causeway Bay, which offers light-filled private rooms and a dependable menu of small bites. _____________________________________________________________________ Things to do for the nature enthusiast For many first-timers to Hong Kong, it might come as a surprise how close to nature the thrumming metropolis actually is. In fact, nearly 75% of Hong Kong is made up of verdant parks and preserves, all of which are accessible by boat, bus, or subway. One way to truly disconnect from the hustle and bustle is by boarding a ferry to one of the region’s 263 islands. Slower paced oases like Cheung Chau—known for its annual Bun Festival which usually takes place in May—offer adventurers everything from stellar seafood to less-crowded hiking trails and serene swimming. Cheung Chau | @ Didier Marti/Moment/Getty Images 9 am - Escape the chaos via a scenic ferry ride. To get to Cheung Chau from Hong Kong Island, embrace the morning air and bask in the water views by taking a ferry. The ride takes between 35 minutes and an hour, and ferries run about every 30 minutes from Central Pier 5 on Hong Kong Island. The round-trip fare costs roughly $28 HKD ($3.60 USD). Seats aren’t assigned, so hop on early and secure a seat up top and outside for the best views. 10 am - Discover a heavenly hidden gem while hiking. Once on the island, you’ll be greeted by a swath of moored fishing boats swaying peacefully in the harbor and loads of local seafood restaurants. Before leaving the island’s main drag, stash a couple of pineapple buns from family-run and -owned bakery Kwok Kam Kee Cake Shop in your backpack for later. To avoid crowded paths like the Cheung Chau Loop, opt for a hike out to the majestic Angel Wing Rock (also called the Cheung Chau Fire Stone), a mythical rock formation that resembles an angel’s wing. Pak Tso Wan Beach | gionnixxx/iStock/Getty Images. Katherine MacCallum/iStock/Getty Images. 12 pm - Soak in the seclusion of an uncrowded beach. After your daring hike, a leisurely swim is in order. Instead of the island’s two main beaches (Tung Wan Beach and Kwun Yam Beach), opt for Pak Tso Wan Beach. Here you can enjoy your pineapple buns in peace, while soaking in the photogenic cove. Seeing that it’s a low-trafficked area, it’s good to note that there are no lifeguards or shark nets here. 3:30 pm - Recharge and socialize back on the mainland. After catching a ferry back to the mainland, the West Kowloon Art Park is an idyllic destination for continuing your fresh-air adventure. Located on the Kowloon side of Victoria Harbor, the park is a great place to laze around after a morning of hiking. Pick up a matcha tonic or shiso lemonade from the nearby Rest Coffee Gin, go for a walk along the promenade, or find a shaded spot by the water to play cards and take a nap. West Kowloon Art Park | Marc Fernandes/NurPhoto/Getty Images. josephmok/iStock/Getty Images. 7 pm - Find a verdant terrace for dinner and drinks with a view. Formerly the home of Hong Kong’s Supreme Court, this stunning landmark now operates as a venue for swanky restaurants and bars dubbed The Magistry. When weather permits, the property’s Botanical Garden is a can’t-miss destination. Although there’s a slight dress code (no ripped jeans or sportswear), spending an evening on the British-influenced, lush terrace is a mellow way to end an active day. Menu items include oysters, caviar, and small plates like smoked salmon and pastry puffs. The drink menu offers a wide selection of gin. 9 pm - Pamper your weary soles. After a long day of hoofing it, there’s nothing better than a foot massage. Using traditional Chinese practices of reflexology—applying pressure to specific points—foot massages are said to allow qi (one’s life force) to flow throughout the body to stay balanced. It also doesn’t hurt that they're generally inexpensive and available into the late hours of the night. For more luxe options, try the Chaun Spa and Massage or Ten Feet Tall. Meanwhile, cheaper alternatives include Gao’s Foot Massage and Tai Pan Reflexology Parlour. _____________________________________________________________________ Things to do for the food lover Whether it’s through glistening roast meats, juicy dumplings, crunchy clay pot dishes, or silky tofu pudding, the city’s local cuisine is treasured by those who consume and create them. According to Hong Kong native and chef Archan Chan of the contemporary Cantonese restaurant Ho Lee Fook, food is Hong Kong’s love language. “Usually, Asian parents don’t say I love you. You’ll never hear that,” she says. “But, every time I came home or went to my grandma’s place, my family would have homemade soups ready. Broths and soups are meant to be good for your body. This is how they showed their love.” Alongside beloved, longtime restaurant owners and vendors, younger generations are channeling childhood memories to keep the authenticity of Hong Kong cuisine intact. If the sound of dim sum in the morning, pineapple buns in the afternoon, and grilled char siu in the evening piques your interest, this food-centric itinerary is for you. Ho Lee Fook | Photo courtesy of Izzy Baskette 9 am - Expand your palate through local produce tasting. Start any trip to a new destination by visiting the local wet market, which is full of fresh produce, seafood, meat, and more. According to Christine Wong, author of the recently published vegan cookbook The Vibrant Hong Kong Table, it’s the first thing she does on every trip back to Hong Kong. She especially recommends Central Market in the Central District, the oldest market in Hong Kong. “It’s colorful, it’s exciting, it’s bustling,” she says. “Big trucks go barreling down in between the stalls, and it’s the best way to try unique fruits and vegetables and more.” Try some lychee and longan grown on the nearby islands, or mud crab and cuttlefish plucked straight from the surrounding water. 11 am - Order endless rounds of dim sum. Located within the historic Old Police Headquarters in Tai Kwun is the contemporary eatery Chinese Library. Here, the brunch menu dazzles without breaking the bank. Held every Saturday and Sunday from 11 am to 3:30 pm, diners can enjoy endless rounds of appetizers, dim sum, and shared plates for $63 USD per person. Popular choices include black truffle har gau, barbecue pork baos, turnip cakes, pork cheung fun, and braised wagyu beef. For an extra $20 USD, you can tack on unlimited prosecco. 1 pm - Practice sustainability at Hong Kong’s first zero-waste store. Since 2017, Live Zero is trailblazing the sustainability movement in Hong Kong. Owned by Tamsin Thornburrow (a self-ascribed eco warrior), the Sai Ying Pun grocery commits to a zero-plastic ethos by offering reusable glass containers to customers. Shoppers can peruse ethically sourced goods from spices, dried fruits, nuts, chocolate, loose leaf tea, candy, and supplements. There’s also a selection of clean beauty and home products to peruse. 2 pm - Snag delicate dinnerware as souvenirs. Porcelain is cherished in Hong Kong culture. And not only is it whimsically beautiful, but it doubles as delicate dinnerware. For this, there’s only one place to go: the last hand-painted porcelain factory in Hong Kong, Yuet Tung Chinaworks. Specializing in Guangcai (characterized by colorful designs painted on a white base), the shop is filled to the brim with vibrant plates, bowls, silverware, tea cups, and more. 3 pm - Learn how to cook traditional Sichuan cuisine. Although you might enjoy the local cuisine, learning what goes into making the food can give you a whole new level of appreciation. Learn the traditions and techniques of Sichuan cuisine from chef Theign Phan of Grand Majestic Sichuan. During the two-hour lesson, guests will cook in a wok, become more familiar with regional spices, and sip champagne. As Sichuan cuisine has become increasingly popular in Hong Kong lately, it’s a perfect time to join the trend. Char sui | ammyvision/Moment/Getty Images _____________________________________________________________________ Where to stay Four Seasons Hong Kong $$$$ For an ultra-luxurious lodging, look no further than the Four Season Hong Kong. Conveniently located in Central—near the ferry terminal, MTR, and plenty of shopping—the sleek, 42-story hotel is the ultimate home base during a trip filled with long days of exploration. In terms of in-room amenities, guests can choose their own pillows and mattress toppers, take advantage of 24-hour room service, and unwind in the rooms’ deep-soak tub. There are also two outdoor pools, a hair salon, spa, fitness center, and eight restaurants and bars. If you’re open to the splurge, the hotel is worth the investment. Tai O Heritage Hotel $$$ If an island escape is more your speed, trek over to Lantau Island for a stay at Tai O Heritage Hotel. Once a maritime police station, the renovated, 19th-century colonial-style hotel is truly boutique, with only nine rooms and suites available. The rooms are simple but chic, decorated in a nautical aesthetic. Although, there’s no pool or spa—which is no problem if your schedule is stacked with nearby explorations and departures from the hotel grounds. Guests can sign up for two-hour hotel tours, in which guides share fascinating architectural and historical facts about the hotel and island. Eaton HK | Photo courtesy of Eaton HK Eaton Hong Kong $$ Located in the Jordan district in Kowloon, Eaton Hong Kong is a certifiably cool lodging option. Run by a younger generation of Hong Kong natives, not only does the hotel offer stylish rooms, but also provides guests with a temporary community through programming like sound baths, yoga classes, art exhibitions, and DJ sets. The property also offers a co-working space, movie theater, rooftop pool, and fitness center. _____________________________________________________________________ What to know before you go The currency Hong Kong uses the Hong Kong Dollar (HKD). As of January 2025, $1 USD exchanges for $7.79 HKD. While most places accept payment using American credit cards, it’s recommended to always have cash onhand in case a particular vendor doesn’t. Some travelers also opt to open an Octopus card for their trip, which is a reloadable, prepaid card that can be used at businesses and for public transit. How to get around Hong Kong is incredibly pedestrian-friendly. But, if you’re traveling farther distances, taking the Mass Transit Railway (the local subway system) or snagging a ride via Uber is best. For the MTR, American cards can be used to pay for fares, which adds to its convenience. Although minibuses are romantic in theory, having a basic understanding of the city layout and minimal Cantonese language skills are definitely necessary as passengers have to call out to their stop to the driver. If you do choose to explore this option, we suggest the green minibuses over the red, as they usually have fixed routes and some have bells installed now to avoid yelling to the driver. Octopus or coins can be used to pay for fares. When to plan your visit Peak typhoon season runs from July to September in Hong Kong. Additionally, June and August are the wettest months of the year. So, the ideal time to visit is from October to December, when the temperatures are mild and the rainfall lightens. International adaptors you’ll need There are two plug types used in Hong Kong: Type D and Type G. The Type D plug has three round pins organized in a triangular shape, while the Type G plug has three rectangular pins in a triangular shape. Hong Kong’s standard voltage is 220V, with a frequency of 50Hz. Don’ts when traveling to Hong Kong CBD is illegal in Hong Kong, so do not pack any CBD or CBD-infused products. Although most are aware of the usual paraphernalia that can’t be packed while traveling abroad, CBD might slip an average traveler’s mind. We highly recommend double-checking all of your belongings before leaving for the airport in order to avoid any unwanted hiccups upon arrival. Advice from a local According to Sillona, a way to quickly make a good impression is to learn a few common Cantonese phrases or words. “Everyone appreciates people who speak the language,” he says. “It’s a sign of respect.” Your fun Hong Kong dinner party fact Hong Kong roughly translates to “fragrant harbor.” This name comes from the fact that Victoria Harbor was once lined with incense shops. Want more Thrillist? Follow us on Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, and YouTube. Izzy Baskette is the former New York City Staff Writer for Thrillist. Sign Up for Next Flight Out Each week a Thrillist editor shares their first-person account of their latest adventure and inspo to help you plan your next trip. Subscribe I am 21+ years old By signing up, I agree to the Terms and Privacy Policy.\n\n\n────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────\nPAGE 6: Thrillist - Adventure is always around the corner.\nURL: https://www.thrillist.com/\nWords: 688\n────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────\n\nSkip to main content Travel How to See Milan’s Magnificent Art and Design Scene in Two Days Make the most of a visit to Italy’s design capital, admiring Renaissance paintings, visiting contemporary art installations, and joining chic locals for fine dining and wine at Michelin-starred restaurants Shopping These LA-Based Experiential Gifts Have Total Wow Factor Nothing you can package up in a box compares to these one-of-a-kind experiences. 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Here's What the TSA Wants You to Know Maybe don't wrap those holiday gifts just yet. Presented By Amazon Travel Flight Attendants Share Their Top Holiday Travel Survival Tips Take it from the pros before you go. Presented By Amazon Travel Staying in a Timeshare Might Be Your Best Travel Hack Yet It's also a great way to unwind and reset after the hectic holiday season. Latest Stories Travel Toast the Holidays at the World’s Most Magical Christmas Markets So merry, so bright. Presented By Amazon Travel The Wackiest Holiday Festivals and Events in the U.S. Change up your holiday traditions with lobster traps, tumbleweeds, and death-defying Christmas feats. Presented By Amazon Travel All Aboard the Most Festive Holiday Train Rides in the U.S. Live out your Polar Express dreams on these holiday train rides across the country. Presented By Amazon Travel How to Spend Two Sporty Days in Paris The City of Lights is also a city full of hoops, stadiums, and sneakers Travel Young Queer Christians Are Going on a New Kind of Pilgrimage After feeling cast out of their old houses of worship, religious-leaning LGBTQ young people seek welcoming pews, even if they have to travel Travel How to Spend Two Eco-Friendly Days in Texas Wine Country Raise a glass at organic wineries, pick up some low-impact souvenirs, stay the night at eco-conscious hotels, and explore Fredericksburg, the heart of Texas wine country Load More Load More\n\n\n────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────\nPAGE 7: Best Restaurants in San Gabriel Valley: Good Places to Eat Outside LA - Thrillist\nURL: https://www.thrillist.com/eat/los-angeles/best-restaurants-in-san-gabriel-valley\nWords: 3,082\n────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────\n\nBone Kettle | Dylan + Jeni Bone Kettle | Dylan + Jeni Los Angeles Eat Where to Eat in the San Gabriel Valley, LA’s Eastern Neighbor By Kat Thompson Published on Feb 12, 2020 at 12:04 AM Lester Guijarro/Flickr Arcadia, the city where I grew up, and the San Gabriel Valley as a whole, is home to hundreds of Asian Americans and immigrants, which in turn means excellent ma-and-pop restaurants. Of the approximately 525,000 self-identified Asian Americans that call the SGV home, almost two thirds of them were born elsewhere, according to a report by KPCC. And although a good portion of them are Asian -- specifically Chinese -- it’s important to note the regional diversity of the many cuisines. There are Sichuan specialty shops with oxymoronic spicy and numbing cold noodles. There’s Cantonese soup dumpling restaurants where the liquid-filled parcels are hand-wrapped, and Taiwanese cafes that feature porkchop rice. There are other surprising favorites, too, beyond the explosion of Asian flavors. A local Hawaiian restaurant run by a hardworking and stubborn auntie. A place where Hainan chicken is the well-known specialty, but Italian food favorites -- like creamy baked halibut and mushroom pizza -- are also worth a shot. A late night taco truck where people of all backgrounds gather for dollar tacos and slender glass bottles of Mexican Coke. A Japanese-American owned donut shop that’s open 24 hours a day, and produces one of Jonathan Gold’s favorite donuts. A burger spot that’s been open for over 50 years, where locals still sit in the no-fuss swivel bar stools and dive into fresh, beefy patties and pie. The San Gabriel Valley -- and the food within its confines -- has a quiet magic to it. The primarily homestyle cooking teems with the experiences of its creators. The more upscale spots are trendy yet unpretentious. As an Angeleno who’s rendezvoused at the Beverly Hills steakhouses, eaten fresh fish on the ocean-hugging west side, and watched the sunset on rooftops in Downtown LA, I can confidently say that no other neighborhood in the city of angels has the same heart as the food in the San Gabriel Valley. I mean, I guess there’s no place like home. Thirsty Cow Korean BBQ Thirsty Cow Korean BBQ Rowland Heights Premium all-you-can-eat Korean barbecue with endless banchan to choose from Korean barbecue is legendary in Los Angeles, but getting to K-Town from the east side of LA can be a bit of a hassle. Thankfully, Thirsty Cow exists. Thirsty Cow Korean BBQ is an all-you-can-eat spot in Rowland Heights where the quality of meat is worth the approximately $30 per person price tag. Choose from a long list of proteins, including short ribs, brisket, marinated pork, chicken, and shrimp (to name a few) and then keep the meat coming. And coming. And coming. The servers are attentive and will change your grill frequently to ensure there’s no crusty char on your meat. The sides are unlimited, and the steamed egg is divine. There’s cinnamon dusted grilled pineapple for dessert, which is absolutely as refreshing and delicious as it sounds. I typically need to roll myself out after a trip to Thirsty Cow, and it’s always worth it. Bhanu Indian Grocery & Cuisine Rosemead Half restaurant, half grocer with flavorful and unfussy Indian fare Bhanu is a discreet spot. Located in a random strip mall (as so many great LA restaurants are) next to what was formerly a Petco, the Indian restaurant-grocer combo doesn’t seem too enthralling from the outside. But this is why we learn not to judge a book by its cover; Bhanu is excellent. The brother and sister pair who started Bhanu once owned restaurants in Bombay, and brought their know-how and recipes -- much to the delight of all of us -- to the SGV. The array of samosas, regardless of the filling, is always pleasing. The masala dosa is crispy while the dough is perfectly tangy and stuffed with spiced potatoes. Popular dishes, like tikka masala, butter chicken, palak paneer, and lamb vindaloo, are executed just right and intensely flavorful. You can not go wrong here. And the best part of finishing a meal at Bhanu’s? Wandering the grocery aisles for snacks and sweets to take home. Young Dong Tofu Young Dong Tofu Arcadia Comforting tofu soups with an array of Korean classics like bulgogi and bibimbap You won’t find an AYCE deal for Korean barbecue at Young Dong, but what you get in its place are bubbling pots of sundubu-jjigae (or Korean tofu soup), platters of marinated bulgogi, a stunning Korean pancake layered with green onions and carrots, and enough banchan (aka small plates) to keep you full. Young Dong has always been the ideal spot for a rainy day meal; there’s just something that comforts you from the inside out when eating spicy soup loaded with cubes of soft tofu. Every soup order comes with a raw egg to crack into the boiling masterpiece, as well as cabbage kimchi, spicy cucumbers, and sesame bean sprouts. There’s an array of tofu soups to choose from, like kimchi, seafood, beef, and -- my personal favorite -- dumpling. If tofu soup isn’t enough, order a plate of bulgogi; I guarantee the meat, soup, and banchan will be plenty. Paper Pot Arcadia and Diamond Bar DIY platters of veggies and proteins cooked in fragrant soups within a surprising pot Hot pot is such a comfort food in the SGV, especially during the colder seasons. There’s nothing quite like the DIY spirit of the meal, where you can select your favorite meats, veggies, and broth, and leisurely cook them in a personal pot of boiling broth while simultaneously getting a steamy facial. Paper Pot seems gimmicky with its otherworldly paper pots that somehow boil soup bases without catching fire (thanks to some clever induction heating), but wading past that wow-factor you’ll find bright slices of well-marbled beef, baskets of fresh produce, and a wide selection of savory soups to choose from. The sesame sauce Paper Pot provides is nutty and earthy, while a yuzu-laced soy sauce is perfectly complementary to freshly cooked beef. Paper Pot is the perfect spot for a long lunch with a friend where you’ll get proteins, veggies, rice, and endless amounts of soup. Golden Deli San Gabriel and Temple City A beloved, Jonathan Gold-approved Vietnamese restaurant with generous egg rolls Golden Deli is a mystical place within the San Gabriel Valley, and no guide would be complete without mentioning it. The family-owned Vietnamese spot makes arguably the best pho in Los Angeles complete with cooked down bone broth, tender slices of ribeye, and bouncy rice noodles. But, like many Vietnamese spots, pho isn’t the only star. The grilled pork vermicelli bowl contains a generous portion of charbroiled, marinated pork, alongside fresh herbs and veggies atop a bed of thin vermicelli noodles doused with a sweet and funky fish sauce with pickled carrots. The chả giò, or fried egg rolls, possesses a crackly skin and is crammed with pork and served alongside platters of fresh veggies to lighten the appetizer. Dessert includes mung bean and pandan jelly coconut beverages, and a tart lemon soda perfects the meal. T.Tseng/Flickr Mian San Gabriel & Rowland Heights Tingly Szechuan food served with a cooling mung bean tea Mian serves a mindblow in a bowl. Of all the things to order at the noodle shop -- including a steamy bowl of spicy beef noodle soup and a delicate, souffle-like steamed egg topped with minced pork -- you must get the Szechaun cold noodles. The springy bowl of noodles is one of the most perplexing dishes I’ve ever had. Though the noodles are chilled, they’re fired up with chiles and Szechuan peppercorns, which deliver a numbing tingle to your tongue and lips. How can something be so hot and simultaneously so cold? To accompany the chile-laced noodles, Mian serves all its guests a soothing, chilled mung bean tea which is subtly sweet and deliciously nutty. Pork dumplings smothered in chile oil round out the meal. Beijing Pie House Monterey Park and Alhambra Northern Chinese spot specializing in flaky meat pies and lacey pan-fried dumplings It's not uncommon to order a meal entirely built from carbs at Beijing Pie House. In fact, I would venture to say that such a feat is encouraged. As its name suggests, Beijing Pie House specializes in Chinese meat pies, which can be stuffed with an array of meats and veggies; there’s summer squash and lamb, fennel and pork, and the classic combination of green onions and beef -- among another dozen or so options. And though the pies are the namesake of the restaurant, the menu stretches beyond them with a variety of mouth-watering options. The nutty dan dan noodles will tingle your tongue with Szechuan peppercorns, while the pan-fried dumplings don attractive and crispy lace skirts, hiding the juicy and meaty filling. Even something as simple as a green onion pancake is dressed in fragrant white pepper and cut to look like a bready rose. Be honest; no one is mad at consuming a carb-filled wonderland as a meal unless they’re unfortunately imprisoned by the keto diet. Bone Kettle Bone Kettle Pasadena Upscale-without-the-price Southeast Asian eats in trendy Old Town Pasadena Though the San Gabriel Valley is well known for cheap eats at cash-only spots, we can do high end Asian food, too. Take Bone Kettle, for example; situated in the center of Pasadena’s trendy Old Town, the Southeast Asian kitchen heavily influenced by Indonesian, Thai, and Malaysian cuisine brings forth eloquent dishes charged with the sophisticated flavors of the region. Their signature noodle soups are served with a beef bone broth that’s cooked for 36 hours and choice of varying tender proteins, like melt-in-your-mouth fatty brisket and braised oxtails. Round out your meal with an order of crispy chicken wings, fragrant pandan creme brulee, and a refreshing raspberry yuzu lemonade for the full experience. Cos&Pi South Pasadena Cozy brunch spot with fresh-baked pastries, bechamel-stuffed hashbrowns, and a memorable burger Though Cos&Pi is a relatively new restaurant, it's left an undeniably strong impression on me and other LA eaters -- especially in the brunch category. Cos&Pi is family owned and operated, so expect warm service, homemade pastries, and well-made comfort food. Highlights include a beef burger smothered with a fragrant and meaty bacon jam and glistening caramelized onions, crunchy bricks of hashbrowns au gratin stuffed with creamy bechamel sauce, and IG-worthy avocado toast delicately layered with edible flowers. This is an elevated neighborhood breakfast spot perfect for families, people with dogs, and anyone who wants to have an excellent meal. Bonus? You won’t have to fight for street parking or end up circling the block 14 times. Tacos La Doña San Gabriel Late-night taco truck with a huge selection of meats for an affordable price I live in New York now, and there's no denying New York City’s food scene is incredible. But, if there were ever a food to make me homesick -- aside from In-N-Out’s classic double-double -- it would be dollar tacos from my favorite food truck in the SGV, Tacos La Doña. The late night taco truck has been around since I was in high school, a beacon of light during intense midnight hunger pangs. For a mere dollar per taco, I’d load up on al pastor (marinated pork flavored with pineapple), carne asada (beef), suadero (beef brisket), carnitas (fried pork), and lengua (beef tongue) tacos before getting cozy on the trunk of my car and devouring the entire platter. An order of Mexican Coke is mandatory. Though the tacos aren’t a single dollar anymore, they’re still a steal at $1.25. A bonus is the salsa bar, where you can customize your tacos with lime, cilantro, onion, and a rainbow of salsas to your heart’s content. Cole Saladino/Thrillist Pie 'N Burger Pasadena No-frills classic burger and pie spot that’s been family owned and operated for decades In addition to having some of the best Chinese food in the country, the San Gabriel Valley is also home to one of Los Angeles’ best burgers -- in fact, the best burger according to our national burger critic, Kevin Alexander. This family-owned joint, which has been open since 1963, will timewarp you with its board menu, swivel stool bar seating, and no-nonsense selections. As the name of the diner-like spot suggests, I’d recommend going with the pie and, uh, burger. The char on the well-salted patty is mouth-watering, while the simple toppings -- lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, grilled onions, thousand island dressing, and a single slice of American cheese -- make for a perfectly balanced cheeseburger. Fries come out hot and fresh, and the pie selection is generous (I’d suggest the fresh strawberry if it’s in season, or the baked peach). Ocean Bo El Monte El Monte Casual, no-fuss Chinese food where the dim sum options are limitless and affordable Though Ocean Bo specializes in dim sum, you won’t find steaming push carts jamming into your chair legs or frantic aunties trying to push an additional plate of taro dumplings into your order here. Instead, Ocean Bo operates like two different businesses. In one entrance, the restaurant is treated more like a donut shop during the earlier hours, where diners can select an assortment of dim sum dishes to be packaged in styrofoam containers for take-out. The remainder of the restaurant operates like a typical sit down spot, where guests order dim sum dishes from a menu rather than flagging down the shumai cart that’s blown past them for the third time. Ocean Bo is simple, and the food is good, hearty, and affordable. Don’t expect velvet-backed chairs and luxurious carpeting. Do expect excellent dim sum at a reasonable price and a crowd on weekend mornings. Aloha Food Factory Alhambra Mom-and-pop restaurant specializing in Hawaiian favorites Like any legitimate mom-and-pop shop, the food at Aloha Food Factory comes out a bit slow, but is very obviously crafted with genuine care and a love for traditional Hawaiian dishes. Whatever you order, be sure to get a stack of macadamia pancakes to go along with it. It’s topped with a luscious macadamia cream sauce and crushed macadamia nuts, and the pancakes themselves are fluffy and griddled to perfection. My personal favorite is the Loco Moco, a hearty hamburger patty topped with yolky fried eggs and gravy, but you can’t go wrong with the savory kalua pork or Portguese sausage. Veronica/Flickr Savoy Kitchen Alhambra Hainanese chicken and Italian food that somehow goes together perfectly Savoy is one of those “if you know, you know” spots. Opened in 1982, the specialty of this corner restaurant on Valley Boulevard is a simple yet comforting dish of Hainanese chicken and rice. Each order comes with fragrant rice, juicy cuts of white and dark meat chicken, and a trio of sauces which may just be the highlight of the entire meal: a tongue-tingling ginger with bite, a zesty chile-based sauce with a healthy kick of acidity, and a balanced sweet-and-salty soy sauce. I’d also recommend getting an order of the creamy and butter baked halibut, which is topped with a rich, bubbling cheese. The halibut comes with either rice or pasta; I’d recommend getting rice and scooping cuts of delectable fish over it. And don’t forget: Orders of iced lemon tea are refillable and the perfect complement to whatever dish you end up getting at this Valley Boulevard mainstay. Jin Jiang San Gabriel Soup dumplings and stir fried Shanghainese noodles in a discreet plaza Tucked away in the corner of an unassuming plaza, Jin Jiang is the spot to frequent for hand-wrapped xialongbaos -- or soup dumplings -- that’ll make you forget that Din Tai Fung even exists. The unfussy xialongbaos are generously filled with your choice of pork or crab submerged in an uplifting, meaty broth and served with a mandatory side of ginger intended for diners to douse in black vinegar. In addition to the homely soup dumplings, Jin Jiang serves up a warming hot and sour soup, flaky green onion pancakes, and oil slicked Shanghainese fried noodles. Opt for the complementary hot jasmine tea, served in styrofoam cups, to cut through the heaviness of the meal. Thomas Hawk/Flickr Donut Man Glendora 24-hour donut shop well-known for seasonal favorites, like the fresh strawberry donut A trip to Donut Man is an adventure down route 66 that guarantees happy memories of stuffed balls of fried dough. The 24/7 donut shop churns out fresh yeast and cake donuts multiple times a day and has been owned and operated by the same man, Jim Nakano, for over 45 years. The seasonal specialties here are, in all honesty, some of the best donuts I’ve ever eaten in my life. Take, for example, the fresh strawberry donut: it’s only available during the warm berry season -- roughly from January until September in sunny Southern California -- but the limited time offer is a sphere of gooey, fruity heaven. You get a glazed yeast donut crammed full of easily 10 gigantic fresh strawberries. In the fall, Donut Man opts for creamy pumpkin and cinnamon-laced apple filled donuts. And you can’t go wrong with Tiger Tails: a twisted donut swirled with cinnamon sugar that’s available year round. Happy Family Restaurant Monterey Park Chinese classics made exclusively with vegetarian-friendly ingredients Happy Family Restaurant is a good name for this restaurant, as it allows meat eaters and vegetarians alike to leave perfectly pleased. Though the entire menu is plant-based, you wouldn’t be able to tell for some dishes; their version of orange chicken is on par with your favorite Chinese spot, despite being made from mushrooms. The menu is extensive but covers all Chinese favorites, like hot and sour soup, Singaporean noodles, fried rice, and more. And if you’re someone who really desires that meat flavor and texture, Happy Family Restaurant also has plenty of dishes with soy bean proteins. Trust me, you won’t miss meat when eating here. Sign up here for our daily LA email and be the first to get all the food/drink/fun Los Angeles has to offer. Kat Thompson is a Bangkok-born, LA-raised staff food writer. When not eating -- or writing about eating -- you can find her playing Settlers of Catan or reading sappy YA novels. Become a Local Insider in Los Angeles Get our expert guides to your new favorite city. Subscribe I am 21+ years old By signing up, I agree to the Terms and Privacy Policy.\n\n",
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