Wining and dining is about enjoying good food, excellent beverages, and a pleasant atmosphere while creating a memorable experience for oneself or others. Wining and dining can also be a way to celebrate a special occasion, conduct important discussions, negotiate business deals, or build and strengthen relationships.
At Mansour Mall in Baghdad, I discovered Ahwak, a Lebanese restaurant offering a delightful culinary experience. The highlight was Sayadieh, a traditional fish and rice dish from Tripoli, known for its harmonious flavors and textures. Dining there was not just about food; it celebrated Lebanon’s rich cultural heritage and hospitality.
A visit to Delhi led to a memorable Bengali dining experience, with Sorshe Ilish stealing the spotlight. This iconic dish, featuring Hilsa fish in a mustard gravy, symbolizes Bengal's culinary heritage and cultural traditions. Its unique blend of flavors evokes a sensory journey through the rich tapestry of Bengali cuisine.
The author enthusiastically recommends BBQ Nation, a restaurant in New Delhi that offers on-table grilling, with an array of starters, mains, desserts, and drinks. They praise the lively and welcoming ambiance, quality food variety from tikkas to biryanis, hands-on grilling experience, attentive service, and reasonable pricing. They highlighted their satisfaction with the restaurant's 'unlimited' starters, flavorful main course options, delightful desserts, and an exceptional kitchen tour.
Sometimes, all you need is the sea breeze, the lull of waves, and a break from city chaos. Our spontaneous escape to Chandpur — a quiet beach between Tajpur and Shankarpur — became a revelation. From sipping tea under cloudy skies to savoring masala crab in a seaside shack, Chandpur offered serenity, solitude, and stories of the sea. Some places don’t just exist on maps — they live in memory.
Byblos, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, is a UNESCO World Heritage site rich in history and culture. The Lebanese city was the first built by the Phoenicians and heavily influenced international trade and communication. Today, Byblos offers historic ruins, a charming old market, traditional eateries, and a dynamic ambiance, blending its ancient heritage with modernity and offering a unique experience for travelers.
Weekends offer a unique breakfast experience, particularly with the dish called "fool," made from broad beans. Intrigued by a colleague's invitation, I discovered its delicious layers, including flatbread and an omelette. This meal not only satisfied my hunger but provided a delightful cultural journey, highlighting laughter and culinary surprises.
MADO Cafe at Mansour Mall offers a delightful experience with its renowned Kunafeh and Turkish ice cream. Originating from Nablus, Kunafeh is a traditional pastry that combines crispy layers with sweet cheese and pistachio garnish. The warm pastry paired with ice cream creates a symphony of flavors, making it a must-try dessert.
The author celebrates his 20th birthday with loved ones after returning home earlier than planned. His father, who he hasn't seen in two years, and school friends join the festivities. They enjoy a mix of familial and traditional Bengali dishes, reminisce on past times, and have a cake fight. In the evening, they continue celebrations at a local hotel. The author appreciates the efforts of his friends and family to make the day special, declaring it his best birthday ever.
