Fig & Olive Restaurant

Located on East Oak Street in the heart of Chicago's high-end shopping district, Fig & Olive is New York's finest import. As soon as you walk in, you feel as though you've been transported to New York - from the DJ to the lively ambience and prompt service. Needless to say, I was pleasantly surprised by my first (highly-anticipated) experience at the Fig & Olive.

Duck & Waffle

I'd been dying to go to Duck & Waffle all summer so on my final day in London last Wednesday, Bisi and I thought it would be a fitting farewell and ventured down to London's East End. 

Kurobuta (Marble Arch)

With the intention of having a romantic dinner date for two, Bundi and I headed out to Kurobuta by Marble Arch.

Asia de Cuba Restaurant

I had been dying to dine at Asia de Cuba for a while but its combination of Cuban and Asian cuisine always managed to scare me into a safer alternative. However, since I found myself back in London for the summer, I figured I'd finally go for it! 

The eclectic decor can only be described as library meets portrait gallery while the entrance is littered with interesting props like this human-sized chess set. However, somehow it seems to work much like the food itself. After spending a few minutes decoding the menu, I finally settled on a starter of scallops and plantains as well as a dish aptly named "Chicken Milanasia" to share - both were delicious. If you're one for trying new things, this is definitely the place for you!

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Oblix Restaurant

So this time last week, I was 32 floors above London soaking in the skyline. The views from Oblix at The Shard are beyond breathtaking, and the food even more so with the extensive cocktail and wine list adding to the opulent atmosphere. Despite mocking the seeming overuse of egg whites on the cocktail list, I have to admit that the Pomegranate was one of the best I've ever had! As you can see from our extensive table of food, there is more than enough to choose from on the menu with everything from steak tartare to duck with smoked carrots.

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Mastro’s Steakhouse Chicago

Mastro’s has the perfect location downtown on Dearborn Street in the heart of the restaurant district near other well-known restaurants like RPM and Brazzaz. Despite having to call weeks in advance to even get a table, the pricing is fairly reasonable around $70 including tip.

The food is perfect for sharing. The four of us shared appetizers, steaks, sides and dessert. Even though the portions were pretty huge, the quality was incredibly high. My must-try items on the menu are the Bone-in Kansas City Strip steak, the Scalloped Potatoes, the Alaskan King Crab Black Truffle Gnocchi, and of course the signature Butter Cake!

If you’re ever downtown, with friends, family or even on a date, this place is perfect for all occasions. Just be prepared for the food coma!

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