Restaurant Review - Lombardi's Pizza

New York, NY 10012

Lombardi's Pizza 

32 Spring Street

(212)941-7994

http://www.firstpizza.com/

Lombardi's is a signature location being that it is the first pizzeria to open in NYC. Opened by an Italian immigrant who started the tradition of staple foods around the world, the restaurant has over 100 years of tradition since it first opened back in 1905. Unfortunately for that matter, the hype is only behind the fact that it is the first pizza restaurant which ultimately leads it to be the one tourist destination in Little Italy of Nolita. 

Known for their pizzas, it is a must order for anyone who fancies to try out the signature pizza. Being that Italian food is circled around a family tradition, Lombardi's Pizza bakes up a fresh humongous pie that is to be shared. The pizza is ordered to your liking, selecting your desired toppings. It is recommended to share the pizzas between a group, leaving room for the extra things on the menu. Although it is a limited menu, calzones are one of the favorites at Lombardi's Pizza for a stuffed filling that is jammed with melted cheese. 

For anyone going in a bigger group that fancies alcoholic beverages, the fresh sangria pitcher is probably the kicker of the night. There isn't much on the menu for drinks, but we can't say no to a pitcher of sangria! 

All in all, Lombardi's Pizza is honestly just a F-O-M-O. It is one of those things that you may regret not trying when you visited NYC, but there's not much to rave about there. Therefore, get it checked off that bucket list, but don't wait on a long line to do so because you might regret that one as well!

Story of My Life - Nami Island Travels

Namiseom (also known as Nami Island) is the perfect place to visit as a one day trip for it's fall colors. Although the weather is getting colder, it is worth the travel to Chuncheon (north of Seoul). This moon shaped island is known for the popular Korean drama, Winter Sonata. It is the ultimate couple's spot with rental houses by the water to vacation.

Although the island is extremely small and you can walk the whole thing within 30 minutes, there are a ton of activities. A handful of concerts have been held on the island, which includes Jason Mraz. There are also a handful of group activities and many photo friendly places to visit. There is even a map to guide you to each recommended photo locations and a handful of signs with Winter Sonata memorable locations.

A few of the must sees are the "wild ostriches," the "foe hawk" chipmunks, the fat lady naked statue, and of course the Winter Sonata statue. You'll definitely find a handful of other things along the way, but make sure you have a little scavenger hunt for these things!

One of my ultimate favorite thing about Namiseom is the recycle project they have. They are extremely green and try to recycle as much as they can. In addition to this, there is also a UNICEF building. I am a big fan of this because it has been difficult to find UNICEF in Korea, but I'm glad I found one in an unexpected place!

It is easy and cheap to get to Namiesom, but a little time consuming. Depending on which part of Seoul you are coming from, it can take at an average of two hours. Simply hop on the train and take a ferry boat over to the island. When getting off the subway, it is recommended to walk to the ferry which is 15 minutes away because everyone is waiting to grab a cab and hop on the bus. Worse part is, there's probably a bunch of traffic heading that way so you can beat the rush.

Plan accordingly on the time to leave the island because the wait for the ferry boat can stretch from the beginning to the end of the island (we were nearly at the end), but because the ferry holds a lot, the wait was roughly 30 minutes. There will be a handful of people cutting in as well, it's going to happen!

Sweet Tooth Satisfaction - Maman Gateau 마망갸또

Maman Gataeu is a dessert cafe as well as a baking academy that actually specializes in all things caramel. With a dessert menu that averages at $5 a plate and caramel for almost $1 a piece, it is honestly a must visit. They obviously offer other things on the menu, being it is a well-recognized baking school in Seoul. Maman Gataeu bakes up all things sweet which includes cheesecakes, roll cakes, layered cakes and more. They also offer a wide range of coffee selection and drinks for guests to enjoy, catering to the season and speciality items of that very season.

With two locations, one out in Hongdae and another in Sinsa, it is a must visit for anyone who is looking to enjoy some good dessert away from the busy streets. The location in Hongdae is closer to the Hapjeong station, where the quieter street of restaurants and coffee shops are in Hongdae. Although the Sinsa location is by the busy streets of Garosu-gil, you can definitely find peace at this dessert cafe.

Hongdae Location: 02-3141-9664 Opened from 12-11PM
서울시 마포구 서교동 395-113 (Mapo-gu, Seogyo Dong, 395-113)
Sinsa Garosu-gil Location: 070-4353-5860
서울시 강남구 신사동 524-27 1F Cafe, 2F Baking School (Gangnam-gu, Sinsa-dong 524-27)

Sweet Tooth Satisfaction - Mango Six

Mango Six is the one place in Korea that allows for you to get mangoes in everything. They offer choices of drinks and desserts that incorporate this all time favorite. Using mangoes, they make drinks paired with tapioca, coconut, banana, kiwi and even served as a dessert with fruits and shaved ice. They do not skimp out on the amount of mangoes used and it is the place to go to for any mango lover.

For those who are not looking to indulge in the mango fruit, there are other options as well. Mango Six offers fresh fruit juices that can be served hot or cold after whipped up. Being that they are a cafe, they offer Kona bean coffee from Hawaii along with other small options of foods of soup bowls, and baked goodies.

Another signature mark of the Mango Six franchise is the concept behind their Kuki six dessert options. The six dessert options of choc chip cookie, double choc cookie, coconut cookie, orange cream cheese muffin, earl grey white chocolate muffin and the brownie all comes from the recipe from the famous girl group KARA. Nicole is known for her baking and Mango Six is the only place that you can find these baked goods.

Regardless of what your favorite is, Mango Six is the one franchise that is a must visit for all things good. Of course, it would be smart to go for the mango choice, but there's definitely something to satisfy everyone's taste buds! Be sure to visit a store that is practically located in all of the tourist areas of Seoul.

Sweet Tooth Satisfaction - Palazzo del Freddo

One of my favorite gelato spots in Korea is Palazzo that has branches all around Seoul with quick stops in the famous shopping areas. A quick pick me up can have you going with a variety of flavors that you cannot find elsewhere. Their flavors vary from day to day with flavors that cater to the taste of foreigners as well as Koreans. The textures of the gelato depend on the flavor that they use with some being extremely thick and others that just simply melt in your mouth.

My ultimate favorite is sesame. Whipped up fresh, it is a full blast of sesame flavor and is so smooth that it just melts in your mouth. For just $2.50 a cone or to be neater to have it in a cup, you definitely can't go wrong with a quick sweet tooth pick me up! One of the most popular ones is Stracciatella among the locals which is another flavor that will melt with each bite. For those who are looking for something more flavorful and thick, definitely go for their chocolate. It is a darker infused chocolate with a taste so creamy and thick that you do want to savor every bite!

Daily Refreshments - Kirin Ichiban Frozen Beer

Kirin Ichiban Beer is known to be one of the popular Japanese refreshments in Seoul, Korea. For that very reason, a lot of people go to visit the many locations that have Kirin Ichiban Beer. One of the unique touches to this Japanese beer is the fact that it comes with a frozen foam. This frozen foam is the rave in Seoul because it helps to keep your beer cool as you consume it. It's definitely the go to for anyone who loves beer, with waits in the Sinsa Garosu-gil area for an hour. An hour just for a frozenbeer, yes. Although it is the most recognized pace to go for the frozen beer because of atmosphere and it's a popular tourist area, the Kirin Ichiban Frozen Beer can be found elsewhere as well. The concept is still the same where you are poured the Kirin draft beer and topped with the frozen foam that comes from a soft-serve like machine. On average, look to pay $8 for a cup of this popular beer. It's definitely worth it to try once, but then again it can be just a hype considering you can get a larger amount of beer for the same price. 

For those of you who are looking to visit the famous Kirin Ichiban beer garden in Garosu-gil, keep in mind there is a two hour down time from 3-5PM. It is definitely recommended to go on the weekdays where lines are shorter!

Straight from exit 8 of Sinsa station on line 3, take a left when you reach Tous Le Jours bakery on the corner. Go straight along Garosu-gil shopping street right after  the Fossil store. 

Address: 534-5 Sinsa-dong Gangnam Gu

신사동 강남구 534-5

Phone: 02-548-8858

Life in Korea - Korean War Museum

One of the most important events in the history of Korea is the Korean War. Many of the times, you will hear your students speak about the Korean War along with several important dynasties throughout the history of Korea. The one that is constantly brought up and related to during class time is the Chosun dynasty. To be honest, I never really understood the significance of the event until visiting the War Museum this past weekend.

With three floors of exhibits, an outdoor exhibit of plane models along with a current science exhibit going on, the War Museum is a must visit. For starters, it is free of price unless you are going to see the special exhibits. Nonetheless, you are able to run around to learn through written and visual aspects. It is the best place to go and get a summary of Korea’s history, which is important, to many.

After visiting the museum, I feel a lot of pride and understand why Koreans feel the way they do towards the history of Korea. It was definitely a great insight that was needed after living here for over a year and a half. The best part about running around the museum in addition to the learning experience is the significance behind every piece that they have.

 It is definitely important to read the captions that they have for their statues and symbolic pieces. The creativity and reflection of each piece holds so much meaning that I was held captive for quite a while. I don’t deny the fact that I was touched a few times with a few of the exhibitions and movies, teary eyed practically.  I do suggest it to every that lives in Seoul.

In addition to all of the all of the significant meaning and history of Korea which sounds pretty boring, the exhibit incorporates technology in a new way. They offer 4D viewings and a handful of other things that should be kept a secret because it should be experienced personally! Do keep in mind that if you go on the weekend, you will be faced with a handful of  children running around as well. 

Story of My Life - Phuket, Thailand Travels

Being in Korea for a little too long can be a drag on anyone, but being able to take a vacation to a nearby country, or not so nearby is always amazing. After living in Korea for over a year and realizing how important and wise it is to take advantage of the proximity of traveling all of Southeast Asia, my next travel was to Thailand! Being stressed from the amount of work that I’ve been doing in Korea, relaxation was the number one factor to this vacation.

With that in mind, the only place to visit was the Phuket area for the main purpose of island hopping. The one must visit island where I spent most of my time was Phi Phi Island. It is filled with tourists and one of the best places to stay. They offer a handful of guides to the neighboring islands that allows for you to do the most traveling to beaches and water activities possible. The one must visit is Maya Bay, where the movie the Beach was filmed. A word of advice is to go for the travel agencies that are deeper into the island, the price is definitely a big difference.

Another thing that was amazing about Phi Phi Island is the unlimited amount of great food which is not just limited to Thai. The seafood is fresh and the amazing compliments of foreign food are included as well. It is a bit of a splurge to purchase by weight, but they are unique and meaty that is actually worth it. On another note, nothing is more fresh than their tropical fruits. The island offers fresh smoothies practically everywhere you go and fruits that are cut up and ready to eat. I practically had more than the recommended daily serving everyday.

For those who are bold enough to, try to eat what the locals do. That’s the one thing that is always on my list so going to the cheapest areas and eating things that are found on the streets is my thing. There is a slight chance of food poisoning of course, but I always take my risk. Although I expected to try something as crazy as bugs in Thailand, this trip was pretty calm in regards to food, nothing that crazy.

As for accommodation, staying at the Andaman Legacy Resort is a bit far from the main bar area so it is a bit quieter and the best part is the hotel. It’s a bit on the higher end, but still only setting you back about $60 a night. For a clean place with quick service and amazing hospitality, it is my recommendation to make to anyone. There’s free wi-fi all around the resort and they have their own pool area next to the free breakfast. It is one place that I would probably go back to, especially with the cute towel designs daily!

Heading out of Phi Phi Island, the closest big city is Phuket and spending a day or two in Phuket is recommended. It is nothing like the islands of course, but you are able to see a glimpse of Thailand for the food, culture, and lots of lady boys. Walking around for shopping (lots of bargaining) and the street foods is amazing in Phuket. Because it is not as clean as the islands, it’s not the favorite place for many, but there’s nothing more than getting the full cultural experience than in the actual cities. The one thing that I do feel horrible about is elephant trekking because of the marks that I saw, but it is now over with. I still have a passion for them, but I hope you'll be treated better! Another wonderful trip checked off my bucket list, can’t wait for the next one!

Restaurant Review - Buccella

Buccella in Sinsa-dong right off of the famous Garosu-gil shopping street in the Apgujeong area is my favorite place to go to for a good sandwich. The most basic sandwich is decked out and paired with a cibatta bread that is absolutely amazing. It takes the sandwich to a whole new level by incorporating the most basic ingredients of fresh vegetables and cold cuts. 

The best part about the sandwiches is that it is paired with a small salad for a measly price of $9 which is no splurge at all. The one recommendation to make is the steak sandwich which has a little more of a salty taste, bringing more flavor to the sandwich that is topped with an over the top mustard. 

It is hands down, one of the best sandwich places in Seoul which you want to avoid during peak hours when traveling with a big group. Because seating is limited, there is almost always a wait. Simply put your name down on the list, shop the Garosu-gil shopping street and you will get phoned when it is your turn in line. 

With two locations in town, be sure to visit one at the very minimum!

Apgujeong address: 534-22 Sinsa-dong Gangnam-gu, Seoul, South Korea. Phone: 02-334-7334

Hongdae address: 330-19 Seogyo-dong Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Life in Korea - Cat Cafe

A cat cafe, which is similar to the dog cafe that I previously blogged about is a cafe with cats running around. You’ll find cats hiding in your shoes, jumping on the tables, running around, and sleeping in all hidden places. Upon entrance, you are required to change into a pair of slippers (cats are indoor animals after all) and clean your hands with a sanitizer before being allowed to interact with the animals.

Once you walk in, you will find a handful of toys to play with and cats everywhere, literally. They are not shy and they will jump around, maybe even go through your things. Some will even snuggle against your legs, but they do not have a habit of scratching so there is no need to worry about that. Like a dog cafe, the cat cafe requires you to purchase a drink that covers the entrance fee. Depending on the cafe, there may be a wide range of menu options. 

There are more cat cafes than dog cafes because cats are easier to manage so it is pretty easy to find one. Simply look for a huge cat sign, they'll point you in the direction of the cat cafe. The one I visited was in Myeondong, but you can also find a handful of other ones in the many other popular tourist areas. Gangnam, Hongdae, Sinsa are a few of the many in town. You should definitely make your way to one to experience what they have to offer, something a little more different. 

Bottoms Up - daily coffee 121

Located in the famous Jeongja-dong, daily coffee 121 is one of the many coffee shops along the main strip of Bundang which is south of Seoul. This peaceful area offers guests a nice scenic street of plants and families to enjoy a cup of coffee along with some shopping. Offering freshly brewed coffees, daily coffee 121 is recognized for their tall standing coffee brewing machine inside the cafe. 

In addition to their signature coffee machine, they are recognized for their venti drinks. Korea is known to be the place with small and mini everything. daily coffee 121 breaks from this norm and actually offers all guests a large drink with their purchase. This justifies their higher cost for coffee, priced at an average of $7, but totally worth the drink that you are getting. 

With so many coffee shops to choose from, definitely make a visit to daily coffee 121 if you are looking for a venti cup of coffee to refresh your mind and go on with your day. From Jeongja Station exit 4 on the yellow Bundang Line and go straight until you see Woori Bank (make a left here). For a more detailed list, visit here.

Restaurant Review - Stone Wall Brasserie

One of the most famous places in Bundang which is south of Seoul is Jeongja-dong for the street of coffee shops. In addition to having the best coffee shops and outdoor setting, brunch is one recommendation when you are in town served from 10Am to 3PM. Bundang is known to be a quiet residential and family area which is the perfect place to enjoy an outdoor brunch, especially at Stone Wall Brasserie. 

Stone Wall Brasserie is a spacious restaurant that offers outdoor seating to guests to enjoy during a sunny day. The best part is their menu. The brunch menu offers a plate of deliciousness served American style. Everything on the menu is a recommendation, but the one thing that definitely does stand out is Sunday Brunch - the French Toast platter. Served with a slice of french toast made fresh, two eggs, sausage, bacon, and fries are served on a huge plate with the option of a coffee or orange juice. It is an extremely filling meal to have for just $15. 

With friendly service and a menu in English, eating at Stone Wall Brasserie makes life easy. It is particularly hard to get an American breakfast, especially for Sunday brunch, but this is the one place to go. It makes it that much better that you escape the crazy city life in Seoul. Able to enjoy fresh air and family-oriented neighborhoods is one thing that is needed every now and then.

Address: 101 Paragon, 13-1 Jeongja-dong, Bundang-gu, Seongnam-shi, Gyeonggi-do
Telephone: 031-719-1542
Directions: Straight from exit 4 of Jeongja station on the yellow Bundang line. Take a left at Woori Bank and a right at Waffle Bant. Stone wall will be on your right between Paragon 104 and 105 with a stone exterior.

Bottoms Up - Twosome + Coffee

Teddy's Twosome + Studio is an upgrade from A Twosome Place coffee shop that is the place to go for their signature black toast sandwich that looks like burnt toast. For just an average of $5 per menu item of sandwich and coffee, the menu is not limited to just these two delicious choices. The coffee shop offers an open fridge of pre-made sandwiches, soups, salads, yogurts, pastries, and many other desserts that are ready to be picked up and prepped to be served on a plate for your satisfaction. 

Teddy's black toast is served on a plate with melted cheese and heated filling. It is the perfect place to grab a quick and even healthy bite. Themed around music, this cafe differs from the rest with more upbeat music playing at a louder frequency. Promoted by Big Bang, this more urban coffee shop is the place to go to for hip hop and up tempo music, mostly American, to bump to over a cup of coffee or brunch. This urban cafe offers three floors of black and white themed seating as well as an outdoor setting for nice weather. 

It is extremely popular among college students being that is it located right next to Hongik University, but it is also the spot to go to for many tourists as well. Because of the environment, it is a location recommended for grabbing food and or chatting with a friend. This would definitely not be the location to go to if you are trying to get some work done! Located from exit 9 of the Hongdae train station on line 2 (the green), it is located across the street from Nescafe and Starbucks. The easiest, but longer way to get there is to go straight from exit 9 until the light. Take a left and go straight to the end (you'll be facing Hongik Univeristy). Take a left at the light when you see the grey buildings of steel (do not walk past the gates) and the cafe will be on your right. 

There is a second branch in the Garosu-gil shopping area of Sinsa-dong. Straight from exit 8 of Sinsa station on line 3, take a left when you reach Tous Le Jours bakery on the corner. Go straight along Garosu-gil shopping street and you will see Twosome + Coffee on your left within a block's radius. 

Restaurant Review - Tomatillo

Tomatillos, the Korean equivalent of the American comfort food of Chipotle, literally. With branches all over Korea, you can get your Chipotle fix in Korea at any time that you want. Although it is not exactly the same as Chipotle, it is the closest you can get with a few exceptions. Nonetheless, it is an all time favorite place of foreigners, locals as well. 

With choices of quesadillas, burritos, tacos, tostadas, sides, desserts, and drinks (this includes alcoholic beverages), the choices may even top Chipotle. There are not many fast food joints in America that serve alcoholic beverages, smoothies, and desserts with your order, but Tomatillos is definitely on it. The popular eats at Tomatillos is the quesadillas and burritos, especially the California burrito. This special burrito is stuffed with french fries in place of rice. Not the traditional burrito, but it doesn't take away from the deliciousness of a burrito. You definitely can't find that at Chipotle! 

A meal at Tomatillos can set you back about ten bucks, but hey, you can't complain for the comfort food in a Korean Chain! For those who are looking for something more filling, you can order your meal as a set where you will be offered a side of rice, beans, nachos with salsa and a drink. 

Story of My Life - Kyoto Travels

Kyoto, a place known for its beautiful temples, is one of the popular tourist areas in Japan. There are temples and shrines everywhere. This is the place to go if you want to take a break from the city area and get a sense of inner peace. With so many gorgeous temples around to visit, there is quite a lot to do in Kyoto. It may be hard if you are not spending two days in the area at the very minimum, but if you have a short trip, take your pick and pick from the best of the best. 

The popular destinations to visit include the Nijo Castle (which is nothing like the Osaka Castle), Kyoto Imperial Palace inside of the Palace Park, Nishiki Market (my ultimate favorite place in Kyoto), Kiyomizudera, Gion (where, if you are lucky, you will see a Geisha come out from the restaurant) Kinkakuji (the famous gold temple there are two pavilions: gold and silver), Ryoanji, Arashiyama (where the famous bamboo groove and famous  is located), Fushimi Inari Shrine, and many more!

Unlike the main city, it is difficult to travel around Kyoto on foot, but possible. There is less to see during the walk and things are further away from each other so it is suggested to just pick up the Kyoto one day bus pass that allows you to hop on the bus for just 500 yen. With each ride at 220 yen, the bus pass is definitely worth it after hopping on for just three times! 

I definitely learned to fall in love with Kyoto although I was not a big fan of the temples and shrines at first. I think the city does speak for itself in regards to beauty and it is a place to visit. Many of the popular tourist areas will leave you speechless. Of the Kyoto trip, my favorite is the Nishiki market because I am extremely big on eating and trying all sorts of crazy foods. You can find fresh sashimi that is absolutely delicious and will melt in your mouth, tofu donuts, baby octopus, eel, Japanese pickles, snacks, and a whole lot of other goodies.

Story of My Life - Osaka Travels

Finally taking the time to travel to a place that I have been dying to go to, Japan is definitely a place that stands for itself. With different parts of Japan offering different cultures, the first stop of my main three destination visit across Japan is Osaka. Osaka, the third largest city in Japan, south of Tokyo, is word to be the next capital of Japan should a deadly earthquake occur within the next few years.

Known for their octopus, the traditional eats of Osaka is takoyaki balls and okonomiyaki pancake. With all different takes on this traditional eat, they are around every corner and should be consumed wherever you go! Every store has their own way to make this yum yum and I can’t say I had too much of it! I basically tried it at every location I can find it. Some restaurants that specialize in oyster will throw oysters in it and I have to admit, it is AMAZING. Seafood in Japan is definitely taken to a whole new level!

In addition to the amazing traditional eat, there are a handful of tourist places that are a must visit in Osaka. This includes the famous Omeda Sky Building which is two buildings connected by a hallway bridge, the gorgeous Osaka Castle alongside the Osaka Castle Park, the Shitennoji Temple (one of Japan’s oldest temples), Shinsekai where the Tsutenkaku Tower is located,  Namba and a few of the other many popular areas that are all of walking distance.

The main attractions of Osaka are quite small, but a bit disperse through the city. If you really want to, you could walk the city like I did. In total, it took about a day of time. Getting into each area, snapping a few photos and heading out. If you are planning to shop around and explore, do give yourself a few more days in the city. There are a lot of shopping areas and the city is extremely gorgeous. For those who are taking the subway around and do not have a pass, it is extremely easy to get around. Price for subway goes by location, simply locate your stop on the map and there is a price next to the station’s name. Put in the cash for the amount that it says and click the ticket price. All buses are the same price and you pay as you get off the bus. 

They currently have a few events going on which include the light festival which can be found down the main street of Namba. It is extremely easy to get in and get out of the city. One recommendation is to grab a map of each area that you want to go to because it is all detailed and mapped out. The tourist information is one place that I definitely recommend. The best part about them is that they have everything written out that you would want and need to get around.  Osaka is definitely one place I recommend for those who are looking for a place to stretch outside of Tokyo.