Meal #1

Had my first breakfast at Huguosi, a casual, old school spot. Tons of ready plated items to choose from and all are very affordable, it’s quite fun. I got a beef roll and sandwich of some kind, and delicious sweet deep fried balls and almond jelly (not pictured). Note there are many branches, you don’t need to go to this particular one, just whatever’s closest!

Huguosi Xiao Ci 护国寺小吃

Address: 180 Di’anmenwai Ave, Shichahai, Dongcheng, Beijing, China, 100009
Directions: Google Maps
Hours: 6am-8:30pm, Mon-Sun

Meal #2

Did some walking around in Hutongs, and made our way to Nanluoguxiang. It’s a cute touristy walking street, and I went to a famous yogurt shop there on a local friend’s recommendation. It was pretty good! I also had some churros from a different stall, unfortunately I didn’t note that one down, but if you see one, go for it. There’s also just a ton of other street foods here.

Wenyu Nai Lao 文宇奶酪店

Address: 41 S Luogu Ln, Dongcheng, Beijing, China, 100009
Directions: Google Maps
Hours: 10:00am-10:00pm

Meal #3

Next was dinner at Jingzhun peking duck. OMG! Until today its the best I’ve ever had in my life, and at the time we spent about $17 CAD per person (and we over-ordered, there was another main pictured that we really didn’t need). The skin was so, so crispy, and the portion was amazing for the price. I did call ahead to reserve the duck but still ended up waiting almost an hour, so don’t show up too hungry, and do call ahead. I speak mandarin so I’m not sure if they have someone that speaks English, but it seems quite likely from how popular this place is on Tripadvisor, and the presence of the Holiday Inn across the street.

Jingzun Peking Duck 京尊烤鸭店

Address: Chunxiu Rd, Chaoyang, Beijing, China, 100027
Directions: Google Maps
Hours: 11:00am-10:00pm

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Yongle Fabric Market 永樂布業商場

Address: No. 21號, Section 1, Dihua St, Datong District, Taipei City
Directions: Google Maps
Hours: 10am-6pm, closed Sundays

Wan Long Sheng Yu Hang 丸隆生魚行

If you’re a fan of affordable sashimi, this is a must visit in Taipei. The chef, formerly a head chef at a five-star hotel’s Japanese restaurant, serves up delicious, fresh Japanese cuisine at affordable prices.

Walk into the market and look for the sushi bar with the sign “丸隆生魚行” (see picture). Be prepared to wait in line, but it’s totally worth it. Once you order you’ll be directed to your seat, and if you spend at least 200 TWD go help yourself to the unlimited Taiwanese-style miso fish & tofu soup, packed with fish, tofu and green onions. It is of course, delicious.

What to Order:

1. Engawa nigiri (鰭邊肉): If you’ve never had it before, it’s flesh from the side of a flounder fish. Decadent and fatty with a little bit of crunch. One order has 2 pieces.
2. Nigiri Platter: It’s a fantastic deal and everything is delicious, though my personal favourite is the amaebi (sweet shrimp). You’ll see nearly every table ordering this.
3. Shrimp Salad: Excellent refreshing side with sweet Taiwanese mayo, if you want to take a break from the sashimi. Also a good chance to try Taiwanese mayonnaise if you haven’t. It’s a different beast from both Western and Japanese mayo.
4. Yellowtail Sashimi: Just so delicious, and the photo doesn’t quite show it but it’s a good size too.
5. Grilled Fish: Initially tried this fish with lots of egg, then the mackerel on the second visit. Both are great! Highly recommend trying one.
6. Ankimo: Sorry, no picture for this. Basically monkfish liver. Texture resembles foie gras, creamy with a lovely flavour. I’d consider requesting some extra sauce, they did go a little light on it and it’s integral to balancing out the heaviness of the fish liver.

Lǎo Zhúzi Sān Fā Bāozi 老竹子三发包子

If you are staying in town for longer and have access to a microwave or steamer, the green onion buns at this store are excellent. These cheap buns are positively bursting with green onion flavour and make for an delightful snack or breakfast.

Mào Lǐ Huāshēng Tāng 茂豊花生湯

A big chunk of almond jelly 杏仁露 with old school syrup and a dollop of crunchy ice is the perfect way to finish off your seafood and baozi feast. Do note you need to break apart the jelly yourself- it’s part of the fun. You also have to order 1 full bowl minimum to eat in, otherwise you must get it to go.

Note: Prices have increased to 50 TWD+ per bowl.

_{PS. Lot of locals on Google Maps say they find the staff rude, thus the low rating. I personally thought it was ok, just make sure to adhere to the 1 bowl per person rule, they are VERY strict about it lol.}

And that’s all. Go enjoy your food filled afternoon on Dihua Street!

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Browse List by Budget

Cheap | Mid Range | High End

Cheap Eats

Restaurante Coroncoro

If you’re looking for the ultimate affordable, local Costeño (coastal) meal, this is it. Do not be deceived by the low prices, the portions are all HUGE. I’d recommend ordering the Cazeula Mariscos seafood stew. This bowl is packed with a mix of mussels, squid, shrimp and fish in a savoury broth. But if you aren’t a seafood person, I found the Sanchoco de Costillas beef rib soup very tasty too. FYI, if you are in a small group, you may get seated with other tourists/locals at the same table. All part of the experience!

Address: Cra. 10 #39-22, Cartagena, Provincia de Cartagena, Bolívar, Colombia

Goyurt

Funny story….ended up here by accident. I was looking for La Paletteria (which turned out to be next door) and ended up buying a popsicle here without realizing I was in the wrong shop. But I have zero regrets. The Queso con Bocadillo (cheese and guava jam, a local snack) popsicle I chose seemed odd but turned out to be pretty good. If you like the idea of a rich, slightly savoury cheese ice cream paired with fruit jam, give it a try!

Address: Cl. 35 #3124, Cartagena, Provincia de Cartagena, Bolívar, Colombia

La Pateletteria

As per the story above, I did find this store in the end because it was just next door. The prices turned out to be cheaper than Goyurt for a non dairy popsicle. I still had a little room left, so I thought why not? The popsicles here are just as good! I got a corozo popsicle, which is a local red berry. Its sweet, tart refreshing goodness was much appreciated in the early afternoon. Honestly if you had the stomach for it like I did you can just hit up both popsicle shops. I certainly won’t judge.

Address: Cl. 35 #03-86 local 2, Cartagena, Provincia de Cartagena, Bolívar, Colombia

Cocteleria La Moderna

This street cart is honestly the f***ing bomb. One of the best cheap eats in Cartagena hands down (for me at least). The little shrimp ceviche cups here make for an amazing snack. While the shrimp itself wasn’t bad, the tomato based sauce here actually tasted better than the ones I had at Cancho and Alma. Yes, it’s that good. To top it off, it’s also a little cheaper than other carts- only few dollars Canadian for the smallest cup.

Address: Carrera 8ª B, Cartagena, Provincia de Cartagena, Bolívar, Colombia (next to Hotel Monterrey)

La Esquina Del Pandebono

It’s namesake, the Pandebono, is a must try at this bakery. A pandebono is basically a salty sweet cheese, chewy mochi-like bun with a crispy top. Grab a Nispero Juice while you’re at it too. It’s a unique, saccharine sweet, almost slightly caramel-y local fruit, also known as Sapodilla. I paid under a dollar CAD for the pandebono, and a bit more for the juice. Great option for a light, affordable breakfast in Cartagena. Do watch out for pigeons coming in from the square outside if you’re scared of that kind of thing. It’s also real busy in the morning so order quick!

Address: Calle San Agustin #35 – 78, Cartagena, Bolívar, Colombia

Exito

Yes, it’s just a local grocery store. I always like checking them out when I travel. You never know what you’ll find. Come here for your locally priced cookies, chips and fizzy drinks (under 2k COP a bottle at the time) and save your $$$ for a snorkel tour. Not much else to say really.

Address: Multiple locations

Mid Range

La Taperia

Besides the downright adorable bull mascot (don’t fight me), this place also offers a super amazing deal on tapas. You can’t go wrong with the Mix de Tapas here- a platter of 6 tapas of your choice on bread. My friend and I ordered the octopus (pulpo), shrimp (camarones), meatballs (albondigas), omelette, salmon and meat pastry. It was all delicious, and more than enough for two small-average eaters. The tapas platter was already quite filling, but we spent a little extra on some sangria and chocolate cake and ended up with bill for two for under $30 CAD. The owner is also a super nice guy! While I didn’t see any lines out the door, the place is pretty tiny so I’d try to a little before or after prime mealtime. We went a bit later in the evening.

Address: Cra. 2 #no 31 46, Cartagena, Provincia de Cartagena, Bolívar, Colombia

Cancha Cevicheria

I did not want to bother lining up at the more famous ceviche spot in Cartagena so I ended up here. Don’t think I missed out on too much, because it turns out the 3 ceviche El Gran Combo here is excellent. While all the ceviches are pretty good, make sure to include the Palenquero Ceviche with squid, shrimp and tropical fruits in your order. There was also a second Ceviche with Japanese Mayonnaise that was very good, but unfortunately I don’t remember the name. The service is a little on the slow side but in my opinion, it’s worth the wait. Maybe don’t come here on your first night in town if you’re still trying to fight off some jet lag like I was…

Address: Cra 7 #32-25 Piso 2 Centro, Portal De los Dulces, Plaza De Los Coches, Provincia de Cartagena, Bolívar, Colombia

Caffe Lunatico

Pardon the horrible photo, but believe me, this is easily one of the best meals I had in Colombia. The Yucca Gnocchi here is exceptionally well made- one of the most pillowy soft pastas I have ever had the pleasure of eating. Paired with a light green sauce, it’s a pleasant change from the food coma inducing cream gnocchis I am used to. The Cheese Croquette with tomato jam is also a must try!

Address: Av. Pedregal #29-225, Cartagena, Provincia de Cartagena, Bolívar, Colombia

High End

Buena Vida Marisqueria

Great option for seafood with a chic interior and nice live music upstairs. You can’t seem to go wrong with any seafood on their menu, but their Miniature Crab Claw appetizer really knocks it out of the park. The sauce is filled to the brim with seafood flavour. I really wish offer some bread to dip it in, I felt a profound sadness watching the waitress take the leftover sauce away after we were done with crab, lol. Also, the Obleas dessert here is a fancy, modern take on a traditional Colombian dessert that you shouldn’t miss. Think big waffle sandwich of crispy, creamy coconut whipped cream and dulce de leche deliciousness.

Address: Esquina, Centro histórico, Calle del Porvenir, Provincia de Cartagena, Bolívar, Colombia

Alma

Alma is one of the most popular fine dining spots in Cartagena, and for good reason. The thing to get is the heavenly Braised Ox Tail Marmalade with Lobster Risotto. The ox tail is out of this world tender and lobster risotto just so good. Despite it being on the higher end price wise food in Colombia, when I compare the prices in Vancouver this it’s an extremely good deal. Must try if it’s in your budget. Also love the cute little candy bag they gave us. PS. dinner reservations are a must- and not same day mind you. Maybe 2-3 days ahead?

Address: Calle #36, Provincia de Cartagena, Bolívar, Colombia

Cafe Del Mar

Just drinks and a sunset, but just about every tourist does this so I’m throwing it in. I don’t remember exactly how much I paid, but the pricing puts it in the high end range for me. Do try to get there by around 5pm latest for a good seat. I followed some advice on Tripadvisor and showed up a little after 5:30pm and ended up with seats that weren’t exactly the best.

Address: Baluarte de Santo Domingo, Cartagena, Provincia de Cartagena, Bolívar, Colombia

Lunatico Cooking Studio

This option costs a bit and involves a bit of labour…because it’s actually a cooking class and not a restaurant! It was of the best meals I had in Colombia, and also one of the best cooking classes I have ever done, so I think it’s pretty fair to include on this list. The Posta Negra (saucy, sweet Colombian style topside beef) I made for this class far surpassed the more famous version at La Mulata. And the Banana Ceviche? Best take on carribean ceviche I have had (it’s also served at Caffe Lunatico). You should also add on the market tour for a chance to try some delicious local fruits! Pictured on the bottom right is my favourite, the ‘nispero‘. And yes, it’s the same location as Caffe Lunatico, and yes, I would still do both, that’s how much I enjoyed this place!

Address: Av. Pedregal #29-225, Cartagena, Provincia de Cartagena, Bolívar, Colombia

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Best Food Centre in Miri

Long Men 龙门客栈
Location: Google Maps
Address: Lot 2911, Block 5, MCLD, Miri, 98000, Sarawak

My number one food centre out of the five I tried. Further but well worth the Grab ride, many standout dishes here. The Chong Fun (rice rolls) and Roti Kahwin (kaya and butter toast with half boiled egg), are fantastic. Highly recommend the Roti Kahwin if you’ve never tried it, it’s a simple but satisfying Malaysian breakfast staple.

Kolo mee (pork lard noodles, it’s much better than it sounds), Chai Tau Kweh (stir fried radish cake) and Lao Su Fun (silver needle noodles) are tasty here as well. And finally, the Char Kway Teows (stir fried flat rice noodle) here are my favourite in town. There are 2 popular stalls here, both are great. If you only go to one food centre in Miri, pick this one.

Best Breakfast in Miri

Kwangtung Cafe 廣東茶室
Location: Google Maps
Address: Lot 958, Jalan Kwang Tung, 98000 Miri, Sarawak

This cafe has the best Char Siew Bao (bbq pork buns) ever. I prefer them even more than authentic Cantonese buns I’ve had in Vancouver. The meat here is sweet and chopped into a soft, more uniform texture. You don’t get any dry bits or huge pieces of chewy fat. Their ‘dry’ Wontons are also excellent. Pardon the ugly bun, I peeled off all the skin (don’t ask). If you’re staying at the Yew Hotel like I did, it’s just a super short walk behind the building.

Best Fast Food

Sugar Bun
Location: 10+ locations, see list

There were no McDonalds in Miri back in the day, so this had to do. But you know what? Now I know I like Sugar Bun better. My old favourite the chicken burger was just as good as I remember. My picture is horrendous, but rest assured the combination of crispy, deep fried chicken patty with a juicy interior and sweet, carrot and cucumber slaw is delightful. Their fried chicken isn’t bad, well seasoned and crispy, but the meat can be dry depending on the cut you get. I wasn’t sure if it was normal to ask for that here, didn’t see anyone else doing it lol.

Best Dessert in Miri

Golden Delight
Location: Google Maps
Address: Persiaran Kabor, 98000 Miri, Sarawak

If you’re a fan of fried snacks or desserts, you absolutely cannot miss this place. I got the Abc Cendol (Malaysian shaved ice), Rojak (fruit & veggie salad w/ sweet dressing) and Kuih Udang (deep fried prawn cakes), all super amazing, though the best of all was the Kuih Udang. This is one of the best deep fried dishes in Malaysian cuisine, easy. I came back twice just for it. For fried items this place is far superior to the other popular rojak spot in town, Sin Wan desserts (imo). But skip the lychee drink, ordered that on my second visit and it was just ok.

Best Day Market

Tamu Muhibbah
Location: Google Maps
Address: Jalan Padang, 98000 Miri, Sarawak, Malaysia

Absolute must for durian fanatics! In the middle of the market between two buildings are rows of fruit vendors, most of which sell durian. Many different local varieties are available if you come during the season, and some you can only find in east Malaysia! You can basically do your own durian tasting session. Also good place to get some tarap (last picture)- a rare fruit I think that’s only available in certain areas in Malaysia and the Philippines. It’s probably one of my favourite fruits of all time. Get this if you aren’t a durian fan- a lot less pungent and fun to eat. There are many other local fruits as well, don’t be afraid to give something interesting looking a try. Also a good place to stock up local spices, etc.

Best Roti Canai

Restoran Al-Asna
Locations: See list

Not much to say, but this chain serves pretty solid roti canai. I like getting to watch the chef make them.

Best Night Market

Pasar Malam Seberkas
Location: Google Maps
Address: Pasar malam seberkas, 98000 Miri, Sarawak, Malaysia

This is not very big as far as night markets go (Taiwan is king), but still pretty awesome though. I love the dessert stalls, you can buy smaller portions to sample everything. The freshly made Apam Balik (peanut pancake) was HEAVENLY. Wish I was hungry enough to try more! Super tempted to buy some kek lapis (the colourful layered cakes) but everyone was telling me to buy in Kuching instead, so I can’t rate the ones at this market. Also didn’t try any savoury food as I had come here after dinner, but the grilled chicken looked pretty good!

Bonus – Lodging

Yew Hotel
Location: Google Maps
Address: Lot 243 Jalan Setia Raja Miri, Sarawak, Malaysia

Simple and super affordable hotel. Cleaners came in daily, water bottles, a television and hair dryer were provided as well. The wifi was adequate for browsing and getting work done. Location was good, short walk to Bintang Megamall, just across the street from the Miri Handicraft Centre, and Kwantung Cafe nearby is great for breakfast (as mentioned above).

PS. if you’re going to the mall, do the walk instead of getting a Grab during rush hour. This may not be Kuala Lumpur but the traffic still gets pretty crazy!

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Day 1

I showed up after a long drive from Vancouver and caught the tail end of the Revy Street Fest. It’s a festival that features free live music at the Grizzly Plaza in downtown Revelstoke nightly from 6-9pm throughout the summer. Otherwise, there’s not much else to do in town in the evening besides walk around town or catch dinner, except I already did the latter on the way in, so I headed straight to bed.

Day 2

The next morning, I got up nice and early (heard parking at the mountain might not be that easy later in the day) and started off with breakfast at Le Marche Gourmet, a lovely little restaurant connected to a local European grocery. Fresh fruit paired with a house made bagel and some fancy cheese? Don’t mind if I do.

Next, I headed to the Meadows in the Sky Parkway located in Mount Revelstoke National Park. It’s a bit of a drive uphill, but the paved road and gorgeous views make this an easy drive. Once you’re at the top, there are a number of walking/hiking trails to choose from. I first opted for the Fire Lookout Trail that would take me to a famed historic fire lookout. For a short 30 minute round trip walk, you get to see a ton of subalpine meadows, and (if you wish) climb up into a the fire tower. After this I opted for another short trail around an hour, though unfortunately I forget the name. But this is definitely a must do. You can check out this Parks Canada page for a list of different hiking options.

And for lunch, I stopped by one of my favourite spots in town- Chubby Funsters Kitchen and Cocktails. The service is always excellent, décor cozy and very “BC” (peep the Hudson’s Bay inspired curtains), and the food? Easily one of the best in the province for casual dinners. The PB+J burger is always my choice, though luckily for me my dining partner likes to try different things, so I’ve got to try a few other entrees here and there, and they’ve all been very, very good. The tempura fried cheese curds are another favourite.

After lunch, it’s back to the outdoors. We headed to the Revelstoke Mountain Resort to see what activities they might have for the summer. Axe throwing and the Pipe Mountain Coaster seemed to be the most popular activities, though the wait for the latter was too long (you’re supposed to grab a ticket, book a time and come back a few hours later). It does seem pretty fun if you have the time & patience though! Instead, I headed to Moses Falls for a short hike.

For dinner, we wanted to try out Kawakubo, the more popular Japanese restaurant in town at first, but the wait was a little long so we tried Frisby Ridge Sushi instead. It turned out pretty decent! I’ve had a ton of sushi and teriyaki in Vancouver, and this place can easily hold it’s own against any good place in Vancouver for simple Japanese fare.

And there you have it. I hope this post might have inspired you to stop by Revelstoke on your next BC road trip.

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