Author: Rowena Dumlao

Northern Italy, Restaurants in Italy

Savoring the Dolomites: An Exquisite Meal at Burjè 1968 in Corvara

South Tyrol isn’t just about jaw-dropping mountain views and world-class skiing, it’s a paradise for food lovers, too. This northern Italian region, set against the dramatic peaks of the Dolomites, boasts one of the richest and most diverse culinary traditions in Italy. Picture hearty Alpine dishes infused with Mediterranean freshness, subtly influenced by French elegance, and occasionally spiced up with exotic ingredients. These flavors are … Continue reading Savoring the Dolomites: An Exquisite Meal at Burjè 1968 in Corvara

Rowena Dumlao
Wineries, Wineries in Europe

Viña Costeira: A Sip of Ribeiro, the Oldest Denomination of Galicia

Viña Costeira wines embody the lively spirit of Galicia, deeply rooted in the historic Ribeiro Denomination of Origin (DO), one of Europe’s oldest wine regions. This land isn’t about uniformity, it’s a colorful mosaic of vineyards, each variety bringing its own distinct character. That’s the magic of Ribeiro. Since 1968, Viña Costeira has been at the forefront of preserving and celebrating native grape varieties. With … Continue reading Viña Costeira: A Sip of Ribeiro, the Oldest Denomination of Galicia

Rowena Dumlao
Center, Wineries, Wineries in Italy

Cupelli of San Miniato: Sparkling Wines From Indigenous Tuscan Grapes

Step into Cupelli Winery, where every glass captures the vibrant essence of Tuscany. As one of the few wineries dedicated exclusively to Metodo Classico sparkling wines made from indigenous Tuscan grapes, Cupelli stands apart for its unwavering commitment to tradition, quality, and craftsmanship. The story began in the 1950s, when Amelio Cupelli and his family moved from Marche to Tuscany, building a thriving agricultural estate. … Continue reading Cupelli of San Miniato: Sparkling Wines From Indigenous Tuscan Grapes

Rowena Dumlao
Restaurants, Restaurants in Europe

House of Plates: Farm-to-Fork Dining in Castlebar, Ireland

As we ventured north from Galway to Northern Ireland, we made a pit stop in Castlebar, a lively town in County Mayo that’s one of the largest in the west of Ireland. With its bustling yet compact center, Castlebar is packed with shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions, making it the perfect place to refuel and explore. Right in the heart of town, House of Plates … Continue reading House of Plates: Farm-to-Fork Dining in Castlebar, Ireland

Rowena Dumlao
Restaurants, Restaurants in Europe

Kai Restaurant: A Sustainable Food Destination in Galway, Ireland

In 2011, Jess Murphy, a New Zealand native, and her husband, David Murphy, established Kai Restaurant at 22 Sea Road in Galway’s Westend. The name “Kai,” derived from the Māori word for food, reflects Jess’s heritage and deep-rooted passion for high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. From the outset, Kai championed sustainability, offering a seasonal menu that evolves daily, emphasizing organic, wild, and ethically sourced produce. The … Continue reading Kai Restaurant: A Sustainable Food Destination in Galway, Ireland

Rowena Dumlao
Restaurants, Restaurants in Europe

An Elevated Irish Dining Experience at Landline Restaurant, Park Hotel Kenmare

After a day of winding through the breathtaking Ring of Kerry, with its rugged coastal vistas and postcard-perfect landscapes, I arrived in Kenmare, eager to unwind with a memorable meal. My destination was the historic Park Hotel Kenmare, home to Landline Restaurant, a refined yet welcoming space that has quickly become one of Ireland’s most celebrated dining experiences. Known for its seasonal Irish ingredients presented … Continue reading An Elevated Irish Dining Experience at Landline Restaurant, Park Hotel Kenmare

Rowena Dumlao
Restaurants, Restaurants in Europe

Cullen’s at the Cottage: Irish Flavors & Fine Wines at Ashford Castle

The fairytale grounds of Ashford Castle in Cong, County Mayo, Ireland hold many treasures, and Cullen’s at the Cottage, set amidst the waterfront and gardens, is one of its most delightful gems. Ashford Castle itself dates back to 1228, originally built by the de Burgo (Burke) family, one of Ireland’s most powerful Norman clans. Over the centuries, it changed hands several times, with a significant … Continue reading Cullen’s at the Cottage: Irish Flavors & Fine Wines at Ashford Castle

Rowena Dumlao
South, Wineries, Wineries in Italy

Tenuta del Meriggio: The Essence of Irpinia in the Bottle

Surrounded by Irpinia’s rugged hills and time-honored vineyards, Tenuta del Meriggio is crafting some of the most distinctive wines in the region. Founded in 2010 by Bruno Pizza (pictured with his wife, Nunzia) and supported by their daughter, Emilia, this estate isn’t about chasing trends—it’s about creating wines that truly reflect the land, the climate, and the dedication behind every harvest. With a strong focus … Continue reading Tenuta del Meriggio: The Essence of Irpinia in the Bottle

Rowena Dumlao
Center, Wineries, Wineries in Italy

Sipping Tuscany Through the Pisan Hills at Podere La Chiesa

Tucked away in the rolling Pisan Hills, 30 km southeast of Pisa on the road to Volterra, Podere La Chiesa offers a true expression of Tuscan winemaking. Perched at 125 meters above sea level, this winery is more than a place of production, it embodies a philosophy, a labor of love, and a commitment to the land. Run by Maurizio Iannantuono and Palma Tonacci, Podere … Continue reading Sipping Tuscany Through the Pisan Hills at Podere La Chiesa

Rowena Dumlao
Central Italy, Restaurants, Restaurants in Italy, Restaurants in Rome

Tenuta del Duca in Fiumicino: A Culinary Stay Before Takeoff

After years of running seasonal beachfront restaurants in Fregene and Focene, two coastal towns near Rome along the Tyrrhenian Sea, husband and wife Rosario Malapena and Cristina Sebastiani embark on a year-round venture in Fiumicino. Just five minutes from Leonardo da Vinci Airport, Tenuta del Duca is their latest project, blending refined cuisine with warm hospitality in a carefully restored 1930s farmhouse. More than just … Continue reading Tenuta del Duca in Fiumicino: A Culinary Stay Before Takeoff

Rowena Dumlao
Center, Wineries, Wineries in Italy

Castello di Querceto: Where History Takes Root and Wine Finds Its Voice

Amid the rolling hills of Greve in Chianti, a picturesque drive through neatly combed vineyards leads to Castello di Querceto, a historic estate where tradition and winemaking have flourished for over a century. Since 1897, the François family has nurtured this medieval property, shaping the identity of Chianti Classico and leaving an indelible mark on Tuscan viticulture. With a legacy built on passion, innovation, and … Continue reading Castello di Querceto: Where History Takes Root and Wine Finds Its Voice

Rowena Dumlao
Central Italy, Restaurants, Restaurants in Italy

A Butcher’s Cut and a Baker’s Craft: Royalbeef x Splendori Pizza Redefines Ostia’s Dining Scene

In Ostia, where the scent of the sea fills the air and seafood reigns supreme, Royalbeef has boldly flipped the script, proving that meat deserves its own spotlight on the coast. Founded by Giuseppe Domenico Larosa, whose Sicilian heritage is deeply woven into the restaurant’s philosophy, Royalbeef has become a destination for meat enthusiasts, sourcing top-quality cuts from sustainable farms in Campania and Puglia, as … Continue reading A Butcher’s Cut and a Baker’s Craft: Royalbeef x Splendori Pizza Redefines Ostia’s Dining Scene

Rowena Dumlao
Central Italy, Restaurants, Restaurants in Italy

Satricum: A Restaurant’s Whimsical Culinary Journey with Pinocchio

First came Alice in Wonderland, and now it’s Pinocchio, a natural continuation of Satricum’s signature blend of creativity, whimsy, and flavor. Dining here is an immersive experience, where Chef Max Cotilli wields his culinary ingenuity to craft exceptional dishes that are as imaginative as they are delicious. Complementing his artistry is Sonia Tomaselli, whose expertise in wine pairing and her warm, professional hospitality elevate every … Continue reading Satricum: A Restaurant’s Whimsical Culinary Journey with Pinocchio

Rowena Dumlao
Events, Italy

Nebbiolo nel Cuore XI: A Resounding Success in Rome for the King of Wines

The 11th edition of Nebbiolo nel Cuore, organized by Riserva Grande, concluded just days ago, further solidifying its status as a premier event for lovers of Nebbiolo, often referred to as the “king of wines and the wine of kings.” Held on January 12 and 13, 2025, at the Grand Hotel Palatino in Rome, the event drew over 800 participants, exceeding expectations with its vibrant … Continue reading Nebbiolo nel Cuore XI: A Resounding Success in Rome for the King of Wines

Rowena Dumlao
Restaurants, Restaurants in Rome

Box 71 at Mercato Irnerio: Home-Style Roman and Mediterranean Cuisine

Mercato Irnerio may not be Rome’s most famous food market, but it radiates a unique charm and offers a treasure trove of delightful culinary experiences. Situated in the northwest of the city near the Cornelia metro stop and along via Aurelia, this traditional Roman market seamlessly combines stalls selling fresh produce, clothing, and household goods with a selection of inviting eateries. Though smaller and less … Continue reading Box 71 at Mercato Irnerio: Home-Style Roman and Mediterranean Cuisine

Rowena Dumlao