Dispatch from Munich – Day 2

Image via travel1000places.com

Unfortunately the jet lag won and I found myself wide-awake and hungry early in the morning. I wound up buying way too many unhealthy snacks at a gas station and re-learning how to drive a stick shift in the streets of Munich at 3am. Needless to say I needed some serious caffeine to fuel my next, well same day.

Headed to Cafe Glockenspiel in Marienplatz for a late breakfast. The coffee was strong and the sunny day made a table on the rooftop terrace especially cozy. There was also a view of Marienplatz (image above is Marienplatz seen from Cafe Glockenspiel). Pretty much a perfect breakfast place despite the fact my “huevos rancheros” were served with Fritos (I was curious what huevos rancheros meant to the Münchener).

Next up was a City SightSeeing Tour with an hour-long tour of the hop-on hop-off variety. It was the easiest way to see the city and the top of the bus was nice and open. The tour was in 8 languages so most people would have access.

There are so many beautiful buildings in Munich that it would be impossible to put in all the pictures.  One of the most interesting buildings is the Maximilianeum, the seat of State Parliament (Bavarian Landtag).

This cafe looked like the place to be for some late afternoon sunning. I really wanted to hop off the bus and have a coffee but time did not permit. According to their website Tambosi is Munich’s oldest, continuously operated coffeehouse since 1810.

After the long day and a quick nap and change it was off to dinner at Cavos Taverna a beautiful Greek restaurant that turns into a party around 11pm. Decorated in white tables and chairs with pops of colors from the large photographs on the wall.

Image via placetobeguide.com

We started with a few appetizers of calamari, an artichoke and baked feta. The baked feta was the perfect level of salty and complimented by a drizzling of  balsamic and sesame seeds. I wanted the whole thing to myself. The artichoke was very fresh and fun to eat with a nice sweet aftertaste.

For the main course we ordered the Cavos plate – mixed grilled meat and the tuna steak with spinach and potatoes.  The tuna steak was succulent and the mixed grilled meat (chicken, beef and pork) was cooked well and nicely seasoned.

When debating dessert a plate of Greek yogurt with fresh fruits and honey was delivered to our table on the house. Truly an excellent way to end a meal.

Drink suggestion: MOVA – Cabernet Sauvignon / Agiorgitiko-Kokkalis

I was sad to be leaving Munich the next day but looking forward to the next city, Stuttgart.

Taste of Greece 2011 – Greektown Chicago

Last weekend was Taste of Greece in Greektown and I did not leave hungry. My knowledge of Greek food is pretty limited, when I think of Greek food the Gyro comes to mind. I did have one and it was good (see pic below). But I was lucky enough to have my friend Dana with me who is 100% Greek and knows her Greek food and guided me through all the food options.

We were on a mission to get Loukoumades. These are Greek donut holes, fried and dripping in honey sugar syrup and dusted with cinnamon. Sesame seeds are often added on top. We found them at Artopolis. They were heaven, satisfying and provided a nice sugar high.

Artopolis also provided us with tasty Spanakopita, spinach pie. It was the perfect size to share with flaky crust and right blend of spinach, feta and spices. Sometimes there seems to be too much crust and not enough spinach or vice-versa. Artopolis got the balance just right.

We rounded it out with Loukaniko, Greek sausage. Rich flavor with hints of citrus I believe there was fennel as well. Wrapped in a quality pita it made a nice little sandwich.

Added bonus to the food, there was some surprisingly good sangria that really packed a punch. I will definitely come back next year!