Week 1

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Reffen Copenhagen Street Food
Outdoor Food Market
Copenhagen, Denmark
8/19/24

               As my first stop on this incredible journey, I decided to visit the commonly talked about “Reffen.” Before coming to Copenhagen, every influencer, previous DIS student I was in communication with, and almost anyone who has ever been to and loved Copenhagen, has been to this Copenhagen street food market. “Reffen” is the largest street food market in the Nordics, offers food from all around the world, and is a vibrant waterfront destination. It was once a neglected harborside lot, yet it has transformed into a bustling hub where food lovers, artisans, and music enthusiasts come together to enjoy a unique cultural experience. I felt extremely peaceful here. The atmosphere was both calm and engaging, with families, friends, and students sitting by the water, savoring and sharing dishes from around the world. I felt at peace, yet still so engaged in the different types of people around me.

               I went with a few friends who are also foodies like me, and we decided to get three dishes to share. We started off with chipotle chicken tacos which were decent. I am not sure how popular and authentic Mexican food is here, and I am spoiled with California Mexican Food, so I wouldn’t get this again. The chef was extremely nice though and gave me a student discount! Then we tried a Korean chicken rice bowl which was very good. It had a spicy sauce that definitely caught me off guard, but the mix of the sauce with the chicken and vegetables was a perfect combination. Lastly we had my favorite dish, which was a truffle, cheese, and potato pizza. The combination of the truffle mixed with the cheese couldn’t have been a better duo. It melted in my mouth and bursted with flavor. Other than the endless food options, the setting of “Reffen” was quite perfect. The sun was setting, people were talking and drinking, music was playing, and everything felt content. I will definitely be back and can’t wait to try new foods the next time I visit.

Overall rating: 8.8/10

Atelier September
Restaurant
Copenhagen, Denmark
8/20/24

               For brunch one morning I went on a quick walk around the block to commonly talked about “Atelier September.” One of my friends who lives in my building recommended this restaurant to a group of us, and it didn’t disappoint. The line was out the door when we arrived, we had to wait about 30 minutes to sit down. The restaurant itself had a great atmosphere as well. It was very minimalistic but had a fancy feel to it. I noticed that my friends and I were speaking at an average level, but we were by far the loudest ones in the room. I have realized that Danish people are very reserved and only speak when they really have something important to say!

               I ended up ordering the french omelet which I always see on social media, but have never tried for myself until now. It’s prepared in a way that makes the omelet smooth as silk on the outside, moist and creamy on the inside, with a tender egg wrapping a filling of softly scrambled eggs. It was SO fluffy and flavorful. It didn’t seem to have that many spices, but it was perfectly salted and paired so well with the bread and whipped butter that came on the side. It also had a bit of a pepper kick that I would normally assume to be too overpowering, but it paired so nicely with the salt and soft egg consistency. The slice of sourdough made the meal more complete. It was paired with the most delicious whipped butter I have ever had in my life. It was so light and melted perfectly onto the bread. The eggs wonderfully softened in my mouth and overall it was a delicious meal. I have a few other friends who have gone recently as well and they have absolutely loved the food.

Overall Rating: 7.9/ 10

Wulf and Konstali
Restaurant
Copenhagen, Denmark
8/23/24

               After getting a little lost on the metro, I was able to make my way to probably my favorite restaurant I’ve tried so far, “Wulf and Konstali”. “Wulf and Konstali” is a brunch place where you can choose your personal mix of 5 or 7 delicate dishes. There are more than 20 different variants, consisting of classic brunch dishes, kitchen’s favorites, meat and fish, fruits and greens, sweet treats, and their very own baked goods. I ended up selecting 5 dishes which included a chocolate croissant, scrambled eggs with chives, organic yogurt with raspberry compote and almond-quinoa granola, a smoothie bowl with numerous toppings, and a poppy-seed waffle with raspberry whipped cream. All of this was $20 which was one of the cheaper places I have been to in Copenhagen so far, and so much was included. We filled out these little slips, selecting which options we wanted, and I was in heaven. The raspberry compote on the yogurt was by far one of the sweetest yet freshest things I have ever tasted, and although I am not a poppy-seed fan, the waffle was absolutely delicious. It was on the thinner side which made the outside a little crispier and I loved it. The eggs were also very fluffy, something I’ve noticed they do here in Copenhagen, and I was definitely full after this meal which made me like it even more. I am excited to come back and try 5 new things!

Overall rating: 9.3/10

Patagonia Grill, at Seaside
Restaurant
Copenhagen, Denmark
8/25/24

               Today’s meal was very exciting because I met my visiting host family! Through my program here in Copenhagen, we are given the option to meet with a Danish family throughout the semester and I was assigned a lovely family of four. I met with Mia, the mom, and Karoline, the daughter, and we had such a lovely meal. They decided to take me around the city and we stopped at this beautiful outdoor food venue called Seaside. Seaside offers homemade delicacies from all corners of the world, and the food is prepared in seven independent kitchens under one roof. I decided to get a steak salad from “Patagonia Grill” and we were able to sit in Seaside’s maritime surroundings overlooking the harbor. My salad was very interesting. I wasn’t used to this, but the steak was cold and sprinkled with salt. I will say the salt made it SO much better. It was a flaky salt that had a little crunch to it, and it brought out the flavors of the steak. I didn’t love the chewy consistency of the cold steak, but I did really enjoy the lettuce, tomatoes, and dressing. It kind of tasted like a caesar dressing, but a little sweeter. The salad also had snap peas in it which was such a surprising yet pleasant crunch. I don’t think I’ve ever had a salad with full snap peas, and I really enjoyed it. The setting of the place made the meal so much more enjoyable. It was right along the water and everyone was just enjoying their meals and company. I enjoyed, but next time I come to this place I will try something different.

Overall Rating: 6.8/10

Wrap up

               I have been here for about a week now and I have felt extremely lucky. I feel so comfortable, my roommates are amazing, everywhere is so clean, the public transportation has been extremely easy to adjust to, my classes seem awesome, and I am just feeling so thankful. I feel very independent here as well. I am able to walk around any time of the day and not worry too much about what is going on around me. I can go to a grocery store, coffee shop, almost all cuisines of restaurants, and more within a 5 minute walk, and I feel like such a woman! I am so excited for the rest of this journey and cannot wait to experience more delicious food experiences and enjoy my time here.

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Week 2

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Community Dinner
Home-cooked Meal
Copenhagen, Denmark
9 9/24

               To kick off the week, my apartment and I participated in a community dinner—one of the 3-4 events our program organizes each term. Through this initiative, our institution provides us with ingredients, and we come together to cook, eat, and bond as an apartment. I’m always excited for these “free meals,” especially since Copenhagen is notoriously expensive, and I’m navigating life on a college budget! Today’s meal was falafel wraps, and our ingredients included fresh tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, onions, tortilla wraps, lettuce, bell peppers, tzatziki, hummus, creamy feta, and of course, falafel. It was a simple cooking experience; all we really had to do was chop the veggies and bake the falafel, but the result was surprisingly delicious.

               One of the first things I’ve noticed since moving here is how much fresher everything tastes. The vegetables are brightly colored and have a “natural” flavor that I rarely find back home. I’ve learned that in Copenhagen, produce isn’t treated with a lot of pesticides or preservatives, so while things spoil faster, they taste infinitely better. Even everyday items like bread are made without the additives commonly used in the States, which means it’s fresher but has a shorter shelf life. The fruits and vegetables are smaller, too, likely because they aren’t pumped full of steroids or chemicals. Knowing that what I’m eating is more natural and probably healthier is reassuring, but it also makes me question the practices back home in the U.S..    

           After prepping the vegetables, we assembled our wraps and sat down together, sharing stories and getting to know each other better. Despite the simplicity of the ingredients, the flavors were vibrant and distinct. The red bell peppers had an unexpectedly bold taste, and the feta was creamier than what I’m used to. Each bite combined the crunch of fresh veggies, the warmth of crispy falafel, and the softness of the wrap—it was a flavor combination that made my taste buds happy. I devoured my wrap in about five minutes and felt completely satisfied with the meal. Plus, we had some leftovers, so I’m looking forward to enjoying them for dinner tomorrow!

Overall Rating: 8.3/10

Delphine
Restaurant
Copenhagen, Denmark
9/12/24

               For my roommate’s birthday dinner, we went to Delphine, an elegant Greek restaurant in Copenhagen. Before going, I was told that Delphine is the kind of place you’d typically visit with your parents, and after experiencing it myself, I completely agree. The restaurant exuded a mature, upscale vibe, and while it was on the pricier side, the experience made it worth it.

               We kicked off the meal with some drinks, since I am legal in Denmark! I tried the “Watermelon Dolphin,” a cocktail made with tequila, watermelon, lemon, salt, and soda, and it was quite delicious. It didn’t taste like alcohol at all, just a refreshing, sparkling watermelon juice with a slight tang from the fresh lemon. The drink was fresh, and just the right balance of sweet and sour—definitely a highlight of the meal. For the main course, I ordered the grilled lamb, which was served with a zucchini and red pepper salsa. Though I don’t usually love lamb, but I felt adventurous and gave it a try. The lamb was perfectly cooked, tender, and bursting with flavor and if I was a big fan of lamb, I’m sure it would have been perfect. However, the real star of the dish for me was the salsa. The grilled zucchini and peppers provided a fresh contrast to the richness of the lamb, making each bite feel balanced and less heavy.

               The ambiance of Delphine was chic and stylish, and with an attention to detail that made the experience feel even more special. Even the bathrooms were awesome, with their artsy design and fun mood lighting adding an unexpected touch of creativity. One tradition in Denmark is to place a small Danish flag on the table for someone’s birthday, so the restaurant did just that for my roommate, which added to the celebratory feel of the dinner. I wouldn’t choose the lamb next time, which was completely my fault, but Delphine was definitely a great spot with elevated food, excellent drinks, and a memorable atmosphere.

Overall rating: 7.6/10

Balderdash Bar
Copenhagen, Denmark
9/13/24

               Tonight, I went to Balderdash, a cocktail bar located in the oldest neighborhood of Copenhagen. The bar is known for its cozy atmosphere and creative cocktails, and it definitely didn’t disappoint. It’s not the typical bar experience—Balderdash has a classy vibe, and instead of ordering at the bar, you order from your table. They serve only from their preset menu, which changes weekly, adding a fun element of surprise to each visit.

               We were seated in a fancy booth, and I quickly noticed that most people there were at least 40 years old, making me feel like a mature young adult. I asked our waiter for a recommendation, and he suggested the “Midnight Oil Milkshake.” This drink was pretty much a literal milkshake, but with a twist. It was made with Adriatico roasted almond, banana, black truffle, birch, coconut, and lactose-free cream. It was creamy, icy, and absolutely delicious—definitely one of the top three things I’ve had in Copenhagen so far. The truffle flavor was unique and paired surprisingly well with the banana and cream, making it taste like a vanilla and banana milkshake with hints of almond and a strong truffle flavor that balanced out the sweetness. It was also so refreshing yet tasted like a dessert. The glass it came in was also really pretty, matching the refined and elegant vibe of the bar.

               Balderdash was a delightful surprise with its creative drinks and cozy, classy atmosphere. I’m already looking forward to going back and seeing what’s on the menu next!

Overall Rating: 9.3/10

Bageriet Brod Bakery
Copenhagen, Denmark
9/15/24

               On the first day of class, my professor brought us breakfast—a loaf of sourdough bread, and since then, I haven’t been able to stop thinking about it. I found out that it came from a local sourdough bakery that’s not only dedicated to crafting sourdough but also uses all organic ingredients, which is pretty amazing! I decided to visit the bakery myself and buy a loaf for the week. The journey there wasn’t easy, I got very lost on the metro, but it was absolutely worth it. This bread is just perfect. The crust is incredibly crunchy and crisp, while the inside is fluffy, soft, moist, and light all at once. Each bite is a perfect balance of crispy outer crust and delicate inner dough, melting perfectly on the tongue.

               Walking into the bakery, I was immediately hit by the incredible scent of freshly baked sourdough. It wasn’t the typical sweet bakery smell but something rich and fresh. The woman at the counter was very helpful, explaining the different types of loaves, each with its own distinct shape and sourdough twist. I went with the same loaf my professor brought us, which was a more squared shape, and I couldn’t have been happier with my choice.

               I’ve had the bread for almost a week now, and it’s still as fresh as the day I bought it, probably thanks to the lack of preservatives, which is common in Copenhagen. I have made so many sandwiches and breakfast dishes with this loaf, and I will be buying another one soon.

Overall rating: 9.6/10

Wrap up

               Another fantastic week has passed while studying abroad in Copenhagen. I definitely tried some of my favorite things this week, since I have been here. I also wanted to share some fun things I have noticed about Copenhagen vs. the United States. A lot of restaurants and food venues in Copenhagen charge an automatic extra 25% tax that goes to the city. Therefore, although the residents here get more through it, everything is much more expensive so visitors like me. Also, something that a lot of people don’t love but I find so convenient is that caps on bottles don’t come off all the way! They stay attached so that you don’t lose them, (I’m assuming). I am a big fan of this invention and wonder why America doesn’t do this as well! Lastly, the tap water in Denmark is TOP TIER. No matter if you’re in a restaurant, kitchen, gym, bathroom (!), or really any public place, the sink water is completely safe to drink and they pride themselves on this!

Overall I am eager for next week’s eats!

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Week 3

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Malmö Saluhall, PÅRIS
Food Court
Malmö, Sweden
Date: 9/21/24

               I decided to take a day trip to Malmö, Sweden! It is only a 50-minute train ride from Copenhagen and the perfect quick and peaceful getaway. I came to Malmö with no set plans or itinerary, but resorted to TikTok for advice. The first thing I saw was to visit Malmö Saluhall, and it was one of the top food markets I have ever visited. They offered really any cuisine you can think of and at high quality. According to their website, Malmö Saluhall boasts offerings like; “sausages hand-made in a barn without electricity, plaice that is only caught when it’s high tide around the small island of Ven, knives so sharp they can slice bone marrow, hand-sorted coffee beans, falafel fried in olive oil, chilled tea, Korean street food, locally grown garlic and fresh goat yoghurt” and more. Therefore, all good quality and top-notch dining.

               The place itself had a rustic yet trendy vibe and every single vendor looked better than the next. I decided to grab a poke bowl at “PÅRIS” because I’d heard great things about the fresh fish in Sweden, and I hadn’t had fish since arriving abroad. The ingredients were incredibly fresh, with every vegetable vividly colored. I ordered the Hawaiian salmon bowl, featuring Norwegian salmon in teriyaki sauce, served over warm sushi rice. It was topped with cucumbers, soybeans, avocado, radishes, red cabbage, napa cabbage, scallions, sesame seeds, and the standout—mango salsa. The salsa had a Hawaiian spice that was juicy yet tangy, perfectly complementing the marinated salmon.

               I found it interesting that the bowl included two types of cabbage, adding a satisfying crunch that isn’t typical in the poke bowls I’ve tried before. Plus, it seemed like every dish at PÅRIS featured some type of Hawaiian salsa, which I loved! I later discovered that Chef Joen Sjödell runs this poke bar with two of his friends, and he even started one of Sweden’s first sushi restaurants in Lund! Overall, the portion size was generous, and the combination of flavors made for an appreciable poke bowl.

Overall rating: 7.9/10

Gottelisa
Candy Shop
Malmo, Sweden
Date: 9/21/24

               One of my top bucket list items while studying abroad was trying Swedish candy at some point. My ENTIRE for-you page this summer was people taste testing Swedish candy and I knew I had to try it for myself. The best part about Swedish candy that some of you may not know is that almost all of them are free of dyes and artificial flavors. Therefore, they use natural coloring and aromas instead. Not only this, most are vegan and gluten-free using cornstarch instead of gelatin! A lot of Swedish candy is also free of trans fats, genetically modified organisms, and high fructose corn syrup. This is all so amazing to me, and makes the candy taste better and makes my stomach feel better after eating it!

               I couldn’t resist trying almost every type of candy in the store, and I noticed a few key differences compared to American candy: the texture, flavors, and sour levels were on a whole new level. Many of the candies I tried had a unique gummy-marshmallow hybrid texture. It was like biting into a firmer marshmallow with a chewy gummy consistency. It was such a pleasant feel in the mouth, and I found myself enjoying the texture more than any other candy I’ve tried. The flavors also stood out to me. The fruity gummies tasted like real fruit, not the artificial flavors we’re used to, making each bite more authentic and delicious. And the sour candies were genuinely sour, like the burst of tang you get from biting into a lemon, rather than just a sharp, bitter taste that makes your face scrunch up, like a warhead for example. Almost every piece of candy I tried was great, and since finishing my bag, I’ve been craving more!

Overall rating: 9.4/10

Gustavino
Restaurant
Malmo, Sweden
Date: 9/21/24

               For my last stop on this day trip, my friends and I went to Gustavino. The place itself was a rustic Italian Wine Bar in the heart of Malmö, so it was in a perfect area with a bunch of tourists and people watching. It had a really warm and friendly atmosphere, while also having an elegant and authentic feeling. The interior had wooden accents and shelves lined with wine bottles, giving it an authentic Italian feel. It was the perfect place to sit in and relax after a long day of walking and exploring. The waitress was nice enough to translate literally the entire menu for us, and I ended up ordering the ravioli.

               The ravioli was filled with porcini mushrooms, spinach, cherry tomatoes, and parmesan, and covered in tomato sauce. I’m not a typical ravioli fan, but it sounded too good to pass up. The ravioli itself was so light but burst with flavors. The mushrooms and spinach mixed with the cheese and tangy tomato sauce offered so many flavor combos and complemented each other very nicely. I really liked that the cheese didn’t overpower the other ingredients, and the pasta itself was so soft and airy. We were also given some French bread on the side, and it was perfect for dipping in the extra tomato sauce and cheese. Although I am not the biggest fan of ravioli, I really enjoyed my meal and would honestly order it again.

Overall rating: 7.7/10

Buka
Bakery
Copenhagen, Denmark
Date: 9/17/24

               Before I went abroad, Buka was highly recommended to me as a must-visit spot. While it might seem like just a regular bakery at first glance, Buka sets itself apart with its fun and delectable pastries. There’s a Buka on my street, and I’ve never seen it without a line out the door. What makes their pastries stand out are the crazy fillings, limited edition treats, and the fact that they’re open every day! My friends and I decided to try the chocolate cream and berry croissant, and let me tell you, it was perfection. This croissant isn’t your usual pastry; it’s stuffed with a whipped chocolate ganache and layered with a raspberry compote, both inside and out. When you take a bite, the fillings burst out, delivering a satisfying blend of flavors that fill your mouth with happiness.

               I’m usually not a fan of fruit in desserts, but the sweetness of the compote paired with the rich, creamy chocolate was fantastic. The croissant itself was buttery and flaky, with a soft and light interior and a thicker, crispy crust. I loved it so much that I got the same treat for my friend’s birthday a few days later, and she loved it too!

               I’ve also tried their matcha, which, unfortunately, wasn’t my favorite. However, I’m eager to explore more of their baked goods on my next visit.

Overall rating: 8.8/10

               While in Sweden, you might be wondering, “Hannah, why didn’t you try the Swedish meatballs?!” Well, I don’t eat pork, but I didn’t want you to miss out on the experience, so I interviewed my friend who tried them!

               Overall, she loved them and mentioned that the texture of the meatballs was very consistent throughout. They were a bit tougher compared to American meatballs, but she actually preferred this firmer texture. She explained how the meatballs were tender and packed with a unique blend of spices that made them incredibly flavorful. She also loved the crispy exterior, which added a satisfying crunch, and the sweet sauce that covered the meatballs was simply phenomenal.

               The meatballs were served with lingonberry jam, cucumber slaw, and creamy mashed potatoes. These sides added a perfect balance, with the tartness and sweetness of the lingonberries complementing the savory meatballs beautifully. I did try the mashed potatoes, and they were so smooth and creamy and genuinely tasted like cake. They were absolutely delicious, and to add—so beautiful.

Photos from the Week!

Week 4

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Lagkagehuset
Bakery and Cafe
Copenhagen Denmark
9/24/24

            Today I did my first Too Good To Go order while in Copenhagen. Too Good To Go is an app where restaurants, grocery stores, donut shops, cafes, really any place where goods can go bad can offer their goods for a lower price at a certain point of the day, rather than throwing them away. Through the app you can sign up for a surprise bag, which will consist of food three times the price that you pay. So today I bought a surprise bag for 49dkk (about $7) at Lagkagehuset, which is a beautiful bakery and cafe about three minutes away from my apartment! I ended up getting two rye buns, two chia buns, 4 poppy seed croissants pastries with what I think was almond paste inside, and the most delicious strawberry tart. I had to of course try all of them and I was honestly happy with every single item. The rye buns and chia buns were super dense and had and tasted like a heavy whole wheat bread, with a crispy and crunchy outside of toasted seeds. The rye bun had sunflower seeds coating the outside which I enjoyed, and the chia bun was very simple yet healthy tasting. They were both decent, but the price made it better. The croissant was also really good. At first I thought it was poppy seed lemon, but the more I tasted the paste the more I realized it was almond. The poppy seeds were a super interesting touch that I wouldn’t normally pair with almond paste and phyllo dough, but it was very good and added to the texture in my mouth. The tart on the other hand was the star of the taste test. It consisted of the most fluffy and creamy vanilla cream, sitting on an almond cookie type base, covered in chocolate, strawberries, and sliced almonds. The vanilla cream with the strawberries bursted in my mouth with the flavor. The vanilla was a more subtle taste, but the strong strawberry flavor tied in so well with the chocolate and cookie and I am just salivating writing and thinking about it right now. I will definitely use this app again and hopefully get a set of new things in the future.

Overall Rating: 7.4/10

Frankies
Restaurant
Copenhagen, Denmark
9/26/24

            Since arriving in Copenhagen, I finally decided to try my first Italian restaurant abroad. I had heard countless times that Frankies, a pizza place just around the corner from my school, was a must-visit, so I figured it was time to see what all the buzz was about. I ordered a margherita pizza with a side of truffle mascarpone, and while I enjoyed it, I have to admit—it wasn’t mind-blowing. It was good, but it was still just pizza. But I mean what would you expect, I’m not in Italy.. Yet! I sat outside with a friend and really enjoyed the atmosphere. Frankies is located in the middle of the city, so we were surrounded by a mix of locals and tourists passing by, which added to the fun of people-watching while we ate.

            The pizza itself was thin, but the crust managed to stay fluffy, soft and chewy, which I loved. What truly elevated the experience, though, was the truffle mascarpone. Oh my gosh, it transformed the pizza! The rich, oily truffle paste added this deep, earthy flavor that paired perfectly with the simple margherita base of tomato, mozzarella, and fresh basil. I highly recommend it if you visit Frankies and like the taste of truffle!

            One thing that threw me off, though, was the fact that the pizza came completely uncut. I received the whole pie in one piece, and I had to slice it myself with a fork and knife! It definitely wasn’t easy, and I found myself wondering why they do this. Maybe it’s meant to slow you down and savor the experience?

Overall rating: 7.7/10

Apotek 57
Cafe
Copengagen, Denmark
9/27/24

            I’ve been on a mission to find the best cinnamon roll in Copenhagen, and I think I’ve come pretty close. After trying four different places, Apotek 57 has taken the top spot as my personal favorite so far. What makes Apotek 57 so unique is that it’s tucked inside Frama Studio Store, a designer showroom and multi-functional studio space. It’s such a cool spot, offering a mix of homemade seasonal dishes, baked goods, and specialty coffees brewed from La Cabra, a modern coffee roastery based in Denmark. The ambiance is the perfect blend of cozy and chic, with every dish and pastry looking so pretty and tasty.

            I decided to treat myself to a solo dessert date and ordered the cinnamon roll to see if it lived up to the buzz. And let me tell you, after one bite, I understood exactly what the hype was about. The dough was incredibly soft, fluffy and warm, giving it a perfect chew. It was perfectly spiced, with just the right balance of cinnamon and sweetness. What really set it apart, though, was the glaze on top. It added a delicious tangy sweetness, but the cinnamon flavor itself was rich and bold without being too overwhelming. The edges of the roll had this caramelization that gave it a slightly sticky finish due to the gooey caramel-like filling that had melted between the dough. Every bite was a burst of warmth and flavor, exceeding my expectations. It was definitely the best cinnamon roll I’ve had in Copenhagen.

Overall rating: 9.1/10

Bageriet B
Bakery
Copengagen, Denmark
9/29/24

            One morning I decided to do some homework at Bageriet B. This bakery was very praised and recommended and I can say that the croissant I got was the best pastry I have had in Copenhagen, and may honestly be one of the best pastries I have ever had. I sat at this bakery for a few hours and the line was out the door the entire few hours I was there. Everything at Bageriet B is baked from scratch in house daily, and the SMELL, oh my gosh the smell of this place. I could smell the fresh pastries and bread from a mile away. I ended up ordering a hazelnut chocolate croissant, and although it was on the pricier side, it was extremely worth it. I talked to one of the bakers and he said that it was a double baked chocolate croissant which I don’t think I’ve ever had! This made it crispier and a little more well-done, taste and texture wise, but the creamy inside evened out with the crunchier outside and meshed perfectly together. Not only was the croissant filled with chocolate, it had a truly delicious hazelnut paste piped inside as well.

            The paste was creamy yet gooey at the same time and paired perfectly with the buttery dough. The flavors get even better. The chocolate croissant was also topped with a caramel glaze, crushed almonds, crushed hazelnuts, AND a perfect cinnamon crumble. The nuts and crust offered a great crunch, while the buttery dough covered in hazelnut paste and chocolate filled, made the chew magical. The caramel was also a little salty but so sticky and sweet. I think this is one of the only places I have tried so far that I would go back again and again.

Overall rating: 9.7/10

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Week 5

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Augustiner Klosterwirt
Restaurant
Munich, Germany
Date: 10/4/24

            This week, I was lucky enough to travel to Munich, Germany for Oktoberfest! Before I arrived, I was determined to find a great schnitzel spot, and on the first night, my friends and I wandered around the city center and landed at Augustiner Klosterwirt, a lively German restaurant that served schnitzel! The place was buzzing with excitement. There was a line out the door all night. It was a two-story restaurant and pub, open daily until midnight, and was the perfect spot to soak in the festive spirit of Oktoberfest.
My friends and I were seated with a lovely German couple, fully dressed in traditional Dirndl and Lederhosen. They were so warm and friendly, sharing with us the best dishes to try and gave us so much valuable information on Oktoberfest traditions. Throughout the meal, we chatted, toasted together, and they even asked us about our studies. The husband ended the night by saying, “All you have is now,” which just stuck with me! They truly made the dinner so much better.

            Now, onto the food! We were warned that the portions were large, so my friend and I decided to share the Wiener Schnitzel and a starter called Die Frauentürme, which translates to “the women’s towers.” The starter was delicious, but it had a few unexpected components. It was a mix of obatzda, a Bavarian cheese spread, and radish cream cheese, served with a soft pretzel and homemade bread for dipping. The obatzda is made by combining two-thirds aged soft cheese, usually Camembert, and one-third butter, seasoned with salt, pepper, hot paprika, and sometimes a touch of beer. It came topped with a small pretzel sticking out of it, and was paired with pickles, mini tomatoes, onions, and shredded carrots, which I found to be such a random assortment! The cheese spread was very flavorful, though it reminded me a bit of cheese wiz. That said, I still really enjoyed it, especially with the fresh bread for dipping.

            Then came the Wiener Schnitzel which was a thin, breaded, pan-fried veal cutlet served with wild cranberries and fries. It was absolutely delicious. The breading was perfectly crisp and golden, and the veal itself was full of flavor. Although I typically prefer chicken schnitzel, this dish was exactly what I was looking for. I also really liked the cranberry sauce, which added a nice sweetness that paired wonderfully with the savory veal. The atmosphere was also just amazing and made the meal so much more enjoyable.

Overall rating: 7.9/10

Oktoberfest
Tent
Munich, Germany
Date: 10/5/24

            At Oktoberfest, my friends and I made our way into the Hofbräu Festzelt tent, which is famously known as the gathering spot for Americans studying abroad during the celebration. The atmosphere was like nothing I’ve ever experienced before. It was an exhilarating blend of cultures, music, and an overwhelming rush of fun. I can’t explain the system that this place has, but they got it down. Picture this: thousands of people packed into a massive tent, yet somehow, the staff had mastered their serving skills. The waitresses would blow their whistles while pushing through seas of people carrying armfuls of beers and food plates to serve. Meanwhile, younger men would walk around carrying gigantic crates of pretzels trying to sell them to people. Naturally, I had to get one of the pretzels. This pretzel was massive, and I found out after doing research that pretzels in Germany are not just popular snacks, they hold cultural significance. They’re symbols of good fortune, prosperity, and longevity, making them a meaningful part of German baking tradition.

            Now, to share more about the pretzel– it was very good. The size was so impressive, and it was the perfect balance of textures that did it for me. The outside was perfectly crunchy, and the inside was soft, chewy, and moist. Every bite had just the right amount of salt, enhancing the flavor without overwhelming the natural richness of the dough. The crispy edges allowed for a satisfying center, making each bite a perfect blend of soft and crunchy. Honestly, I do think I liked the pretzel more than my friends, but I was very hungry at the time, which might have heightened the experience for me.
They also had a cinnamon-covered version, and I heard great reviews about them, but I didn’t get a chance to try it. All in all, it was a wild but wildly fun experience, and that pretzel? Absolutely hit the spot.

Overall rating: 7.6/10

Oktoberfest
Dessert Stand
Munich, Germany
Date: 10/5/24

            Other than the tents at Oktoberfest, they have an extremely impressive amusement park full of so many rides and food vendors. I went on so many rides which worked up my appetite. While heading out for the day, I ended up coming across this awesome dessert stand with chocolate covered everything. I took a bite of my friend’s chocolate-covered pineapple and grapes, which was so unique to me and oddly a really great combo, but the two highlights I tried were the chocolate-covered raspberries and something called Schaumtraum. The vendor explained that Schaumtraum is a local Munich specialty, so I knew I had to try it. It’s a delicate meringue ball resting on a crispy wafer, filled with bits of waffle cone, and all wrapped in a rich dark chocolate shell. The texture was great. It reminded me of marshmallow fluff, but it was much lighter, creamier, and not overly sticky, which I appreciated. The crunch from the wafer and waffle cone pieces added a perfect contrast to the smoothness of the meringue. The dark chocolate shell was another highlight, adding a deep richness and satisfying crunch to every bite. While I’m glad I tried it, I’m not sure I’d go for it again, but it was very tasty overall.

            I then had a skewer of chocolate-covered raspberries. I typically go for chocolate-covered strawberries but I am so happy I tried the raspberries. They were perfectly cool and juicy and so ripe and flavorful. I think the chocolate was white chocolate dyed pink, and I normally don’t like white chocolate, yet I really liked this one. It wasn’t too sweet and worked so well with the tartness of the raspberries. These desserts were a perfect ending to such a great day.

Overall rating: 8.8/10

Mein Bäcker
Bakery
Frankfurt, Germany
Date: 10/2/24

            While getting into the German spirit, a few days before I left, one of my apartment mates surprised us all with German pastries! Her parents went to Germany a few days prior and brought us back pastries to try from Mein Bäcker. “Mein Bäcker,” which translates to “My Baker” in English, had the tagline on the bag, “Out of pure love for the craft,” which I thought was such a charming touch.

            The pastry itself was quite unique. It reminded me of a cinnamon roll, but instead of the usual spiral shape, the dough was layered on top of itself. Despite being dusted with cinnamon, the flavor wasn’t as strong as I had expected. The dough seemed to dominate the taste, giving it more of a mild, bread-like flavor. In a way, you could call it a “modest” cinnamon roll which would be perfect for those who aren’t fans of a strong cinnamon taste. The pastry was also pretty thick, with a caramelized, slightly crisp exterior from the cinnamon that I really enjoyed. However, I couldn’t help but wonder if the flavor had dulled a bit because it wasn’t super fresh. My friend heated hers up and said it tasted much better that way, so I probably should’ve done the same!

            Overall, it was still a pleasant experience, and I’m really glad I got to sample an authentic German pastry. That said, I have to admit, Copenhagen and Elon Dining have spoiled me with pastries, and I’m eager to try them again soon!

Overall rating: 5.6/10

Photos from the Week!

Week 6

Watch on Instagram – Part 1

Watch on Instagram – Part 2

Vild Hvede
Regenerative Wheat Farm
Funen, Denmark
Date: 10/8/24

            One of the coolest most stand-out parts about DIS, the University I am studying through, is that they require all students to take a “Core” course, which is the main focus of your time in Copenhagen. With this course comes two week-long study tours, and I just completed the first one this week! I’m in the Sustainable Food Production and Consumption class, and for our travel week, we explored various parts of Denmark, visiting farms and food production sites.

            One of the most memorable stops was Vild Hvede, a regenerative wheat farm. Regenerative agriculture focuses on conservation and restoring ecosystems, emphasizing practices like topsoil regeneration, biodiversity, and improving the water cycle. In simple terms, it’s organic farming with a strong focus on sustainability. The farm uses natural fertilizers, holistic grazing, and overall cleaner, more eco-friendly methods than typical factory farms. After a tour of the farm, we were treated to an incredible farm-to-table dinner, which brought back fond memories of Elon Dining’s farm-to-table meals—make sure to check those out this semester, I miss them! Every dish was made with ingredients sourced directly from the farm, and the menu was simply exceptional.

            We started with roasted leeks drizzled in mustard vinaigrette, topped with a lemon crème fraîche and breadcrumbs made from the farm’s own wheat. The vegetables, all grown on the farm, were fresh and full of flavor. I hadn’t experienced leeks as the main dish before, and they reminded me a bit of asparagus in both texture and taste, though leeks are a bit more delicate and shreddy. The lemon crème fraîche was a highlight for me—smooth, tangy, and perfectly refreshing. Next up was a vibrant salad featuring three varieties of farm-fresh lettuce, edible flowers, sunflower seeds, and a mix of herbs like basil, parsley, thyme, and oregano. It was visually stunning, with the edible flowers adding a beautiful pop of color. This was probably my least favorite dish of the night but still quite good!

            Then came the beets in a tahini base. Now, I’m usually not a fan of beets, but this dish changed my mind—I went back for thirds! The earthy taste of the beets was perfectly balanced by the nutty, seedy tahini, which reminded me a bit of hummus. The flavors were rich yet light, and the beets were so ripe and delicious. The final dish, and my absolute favorite, was a parsnip purée topped with caramelized onions and zucchini. The zucchini and onions were cooked to perfection, seasoned beautifully, and paired with the silky purée in a way that created an unforgettable flavor combination. I could taste the freshness and quality of every ingredient, and it was clear that this meal was as nourishing as it was delicious. I really enjoyed this meal and knew that the ingredients were so fresh and truly healthy and real.

Overall rating: 8.4/10

Birkemosegaard
Biodynamic Farm
Sjælland, Denmark
Date: 10/9/24

            Our next stop on this trip was visiting a Biodynamic farm. A biodynamic farm is where the farm itself is considered an autonomous and living organism that is able to interact with the environment to build healthy and living soil, which in return, produces healthy and nutritious food overall. It is much more restrictive than an organic farm, and it focuses on crop rotation and soil changes. The farmer we talked to also told us that the farm attracts cosmic power which has been proven to make the nutrition and quality of his crops better- (so cool!).

            We were also given the pleasure of eating dinner from this farm as well. I believe most, if not all ingredients were taken directly from the farm. Our meal consisted of boiled potatoes, burnt eggplant in olive oil, tempe with kale and cabbage, Cauliflower with squash and quinoa, beet and carrot salad, and a braised white pea and pumpkin soup. The soup may be top three soups I’ve ever had in my life. It was a white pea soup, but it had a milky base with pumpkin puree, and the freshest vegetables. The subtle pumpkin flavor mixed with the creamy base and perfectly mushy beans melted in my mouth. I really can’t explain how delicious this soup was. I ended up trying the tempe, because it was the main source of protein for this meal, but I sadly was not a fan. It tasted a little burnt and the consistency was very odd. I just don’t think I am a tempe person.

            The eggplant and cauliflower were very tasty as well. And you can just see how bright and fresh they were. The colors were so vivid. The beet salad was also very good, again, not having too strong of an earthy beet flavor, but the standout was the potatoes. I am not sure if the freshness of the potatoes made them taste so good or the salty olive oil, but these potatoes were amazing. I honestly think it may have been the atomic power inside of them because they were perfectly cooked and so flavorful. Overall this meal was very satisfying and intriguing to learn about.

Overall rating: 8.2/10

Dansk Tang
Seaweed Farm
Sjælland, Denmark
Date: 10/10/24

            The most unique stop in my opinion on this trip was the seaweed farm we visited! Dansk Tang, which translates to “Danish Seaweed” is a seaweed farm/ company that sells their seaweed to over 120 restaurants, catering companies, canteens, and more. We met, spoke with, and learned from one of their main partners and harvesters, and he said how one of their missions is to give more to nature and the future than we take from it. He cultivates 5-6 different types of seaweeds, and we were able to see different parts of the farm and where the seaweed was being grown. He explained that seaweed is 15% protein, only 3% fat, and 50% fiber. Seaweed offers so many positives and its CO2 emissions while cultivating is extremely low. They deliver 20 different types of fresh seaweed, and I have learned that it contains vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin K, B vitamins, iodine, zinc, and iron, as well as certain antioxidants that can help protect your cells from damage.

            We ended up trying four different types of fresh seaweed; havsalat, strengetang, bladderwrack and gracilaria. All of which were decently slimy and fishy, but some more than the others. Havsalat was the most typical kind of seaweed you’d imagine. It was light green little clumps, but slimier and wet, making it very fresh tasting. Strengetang was super odd and didn’t have too much of a taste. This seaweed kind of looked like spaghetti. It was long and thin and had a harder crunch when you bit into it. Bladderwrack was the most oceany type to me. It was very fishy, slimy, and kind of stringy, looking more like the type of seaweed you’d find on a beach. It was also dark green and very thin. Lastly, gracilaria is a Danish type of seaweed that has a slightly salty taste, and is considered by Dansk Tang to be the most delicious seaweed. I didn’t love any of these specifically, but I think it is because I am used to Norwegian seaweed, which is what is used in sushi and those packs of seaweed snacks. I didn’t love any of the four types but it was very interesting to learn about the benefits of seaweed and taste different kinds that I normally would not taste.

Overall rating: 3.5/10

Hansen Is
Ice cream Shop
Jægerspris, Denmark
Date: 10/10/24

            My personal favorite stop on this travel week was the ice cream shop we visited called Hansen Is. Hansen Is is a very popular spot in Denmark and very well known. It is a family company that wanted to make ice cream with real cream and real milk. We talked to one of the owners and he told us that they are considered a small premium ice cream producer and are organic and want to give everyone a special experience. It was a very cute place and people constantly walked in and out and bought multiple things, all of which looked delicious.

            We ended up trying three different ice creams. We started off with the salty caramel sourdough ice cream bar and this was unbelievably delicious and cool to learn about. The ice cream is made from actual sourdough bread. They partnered with a bakery and restaurant where they treated the bread, boiled it in water, added enzymes, and converted the bread into starch. Then this starch was made into a syrup which was used as the sugar in the ice cream. The salt from the bread and caramelization from the bread made the flavor quite literally taste slightly like sourdough but with a rich vanilla and offered the CREAMIEST bite. It also had a big thing of caramel in the middle and was covered in chocolate. This ice cream tasted like nothing I’ve ever had before.

            Second, we had their chocolate ice cream. 20% of cocoa beans goes to waste, so they wanted to reduce this waste and incorporate all parts of the bean in their ice cream. This gave the ice cream a very subtle chocolate flavor that wasn’t too overpowering. It was also very smooth and not too bitter, but still had that real cacao taste to it. It was very melty which I didn’t love though, but overall it had a nice taste.

            Lastly, we tried their vanilla bean ice cream with cherry sauce. Going back to preventing waste, their cherry sauce is upcycled from cherry wine production. The sediment on the bottom of the tank during wine production is scooped and bought by Hansen Is. They are able to use this sediment to make a fresh cherry sauce to top their ice cream with. I didn’t love the sauce just because it was pure cherry flavoring which I am not a personal fan of, but the ice cream may have been the best vanilla ice cream I have ever had. I am not a vanilla fan at all but it was unbelievably creamy and so perfectly sweet and had the little black vanilla beans mixed in, and it was genuinely phenomenal.

I loved all of the thoughts behind each of these products and how they are sustainable, organic, and good for the environment overall.

Overall rating: 7.7/10

Photos from the Week!

Week 7

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Pasta Cooking Class at Cucina in Torre
Cooking class in a Restaurant
Florence/Italy
10/14/24

             I was lucky enough to travel to Florence, Italy this week and one of the top things on my list was to attend a cooking class. After a lot of research I found this awesome pasta making class where you make three different types of pasta, plus unlimited wine! My friend and I went the first day we were in Florence and all of my expectations were exceeded. We arrived at this beautiful tuscan restaurant with tables full of prepared ingredients for us to work with. My friend and I shared our table with two lovely couples, and throughout the class, we bonded over our love for food and travel, making the experience even more special.

The class was three hours long and we prepared three types of fresh pasta; ravioli, tortelli, and pappardelle. We were led by an Italian chef named Francesca, and she was AMAZING! She guided us through each step with such passion, explaining that the pasta we were crafting followed recipes from the time of the Medici family, evoking a sense of culinary history. We began by preparing an old-fashioned Tuscan ragù, made with beef, onions, carrots, celery, tomatoes, and a splash of red Tuscan wine. As it simmered, we moved on to the pasta.

We then started by making the dough for the pasta. We whisked eggs into flour and kept combining the two until it became a dough-like consistency. We then kneaded it, rolled it up, and let it sit in saran wrap while we started making the fillings for the tortelli and ravioli. The filling was a mix of ricotta, parmesan, olive oil, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. We weren’t given specific measurements for this, we just added things until it tasted good! After making the filling we started to roll out our dough. Since it was fresh, it wasn’t a tough dough, making it very easy to roll out. We separated it into three parts and rolled each of them out. For the tortelli we cut the dough into squares, put little dollops of cheese filling on each square, and then folded them diagonally into triangles. After doing that we used a pasta cutter wheel to evenly cut the triangle and then folded it into the typical tortelli shape. We boiled these in water for just a few minutes and then tossed it into a butter and sage sauce. We sprinkled a little cheese on top and then dug in. This pasta was just “wow.” That’s all I can really say. It was perfectly al dente, so flavorful and the filling mixed with the sage and butter offered so many flavors. It was delicious.

Second, we made the ravioli. We followed a similar process to the tortelli. We cut the dough into squares, but a little bigger this time, added the same cheese filling, folded the dough over and on top of each other, and used a pasta cutter wheel to shape it any shape we desired! We then put it in the boiling water for just a few minutes, and mixed it into arrabbiata sauce mixed with cherry tomatoes. This may have been my favorite dish of the class. The cheese to pasta ratio was so perfect, not one more than the other, and the filling oozing with the cherry tomatoes was so pleasant. I am not a typical ravioli fan, but this dish was great.

Lastly, we made pappardelle. We flattened the dough, rolled it while layering it on top of each other, and cut it into thin strands. We then unraveled the strands and there we had it- pappardelle! We did the same cooking procedure as the other two, and mixed it with the ragù. The meat was wildly flavorful, and the soft yet still crunchy vegetables mixed with it were so satisfying to eat with the pasta. I was very full at this point but overall really enjoyed this dish. This class was an amazing experience and definitely one of the highlights of my trip to Florence.

Overall rating: 9.7/10

Gelateria Dei Neri
Gelato Shop
Florence/Italy
10/15/24

             I was told that anywhere you go in Italy, you’ll find the best gelato of your life, and that advice turned out to be spot on. On my first night in Florence, even though it was late, my friend and I wandered down the street and stumbled upon a place called Gelateria Dei Neri. I was beyond excited, not just because I love gelato, but also because I couldn’t believe how affordable it was. The shop had this charming Italian vibe and was packed with people.

When I asked the scooper for his chocolate recommendation, he suggested the chocolate with brown sugar, and I couldn’t resist pairing it with hazelnut, my all-time favorite flavor. I got both in a cone for just three euros, and it was magical. The chocolate was a little richer than I usually prefer, but the chunks of brown sugar added a delightful crunch, balancing out the intense, dark chocolate. But the hazelnut… wow. It was hands down one of the best gelatos I’ve ever had. So smooth, creamy, and bursting with flavor. It had a lightness to it, almost reminiscent of Nutella, but with the perfect balance of hazelnut and tiny crunchy bits of the nut.

Overall rating: 9.1/10

All’antico Vinaio
Sandwich Shop
Florence/Italy
10/16/24

             When planning my trip to Florence, one of my top priorities was trying a sandwich from All’antico Vinaio, which is renowned as one of the most popular sandwich spots in the world. My brother, who studied in Florence, insisted that I couldn’t miss it, as it was one of his favorite places to eat during his time there. At all times of day the line was out the door and down the street, but despite the amount of people waiting, it went by extremely fast. In Florence there are three All’antico Vinaio’s on the same street. I am assuming they are there to make it go by faster, and I don’t think there was a difference between any of them. Once my friend and I made it inside, we were greeted by the sight of a huge counter filled with an array of cheeses, sauces, massive slabs of meat, and freshly baked bread. The energy was amazing as the staff quickly assembled sandwiches with expert precision.

I asked for the best turkey sandwich they had and I ended up receiving a sandwich with turkey, tomatoes, a whole avocado, mozzarella cheese, and then I requested they add some pistachio cream because it looked too good to pass up. This was all put on a huge piece of hot and crunchy baked schiacciata. The bread was perfectly crunchy, pairing beautifully with the smooth mozzarella and rich cream. There was something almost magical about the bread, its texture was wonderful. The turkey was thinly sliced, just how I like it, and the avocado was perfectly ripe, adding a nice creamy layer. But the real star was the pistachio cream. I’ve noticed pistachio is very popular in Italy, and I’m so glad I added it to my sandwich. It was sweet, creamy, and slightly salty, bringing a savory richness with a pistachio flavor that complimented all the fresh ingredients perfectly. Every bite was incredibly satisfying.

Overall rating: 8.8/10

Acqua Al 2
Italian Restaurant
Florence/Italy
10/16/24

             During my visit to Florence, my friend insisted we try Acqua Al 2, an Italian restaurant famous for its blueberry steak. This turned out to be my favorite meal in Florence, but before I dive into the food, let me describe the restaurant. It had such a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, and what really stood out were the hundreds of plates hanging on the walls, all designed and signed by international actors and musicians who have dined there. It added such a unique touch to the experience. Acqua Al 2 has been around since 1978, and their menu offers a modern twist on traditional Tuscan, Italian, and other cuisines. They’re particularly known for inventing the blueberry filet, which is served with their signature blueberry sauce.

My friend and I decided to split the blueberry steak and a pasta dish, and let me tell you, it was phenomenal. The pasta we shared was spinach and ricotta ravioli in a cream sauce, topped with avocado and pomegranate seeds, and it was quite perfect. The ravioli was perfectly cooked, with a creamy, flavorful spinach and ricotta filling. The sauce was rich and heavenly, and when paired with the sweetness of the pomegranate and the soft avocado, it created the perfect balance. Honestly, it’s one of the top three pasta dishes I’ve ever had, and I’m a pretty tough critic!

Then came the famous blueberry steak, and it completely exceeded my expectations. The filet was juicy, tender, and delicious on its own, but the blueberry sauce took it to another level. Instead of being overly sweet, the sauce had a tartness that worked so well with the richness of the meat. It reminded me of a blueberry-balsamic reduction, adding a unique flavor that made the steak even juicier. I usually prefer my steak well-done, but this one was served medium, and I’m so glad I trusted the chefs.

We finished the meal with a dessert tasting platter, which included several delightful treats: “Cheesecake con Salsa di Fragole”, an Italian-style cheesecake drizzled with strawberry sauce, “Barretta di Gianduja”, a chocolate and hazelnut crunch cake, Panna Cotta, a thicker vanilla bean custard drizzled with a passion fruit sauce, and Tiramisu, which is probably the most common, but is ladyfingers soaked in espresso, layered with whipped mascarpone and dusted with cocoa powder. The chocolate cake was light and fluffy, and the cheesecake was wonderfully creamy without being too rich. The panna cotta was interesting, probably my least favorite, but still great. And lastly, the tiramisu, it was classic and well-done, though I’m not a huge coffee fan, so I mostly enjoyed the mascarpone.

Overall Rating: 9.7/10

Wrap up

             Almost everything I ate in Florence was delicious. One of the best things that I noticed about my meals was that after I ate them, and I ate decently big portions, I never felt overly full or had stomach aches. I would eat an entire pizza and not feel that stuffed or gross, which has never happened to me in America. I was curious what the reasoning was, and after doing some research I found that the use of ancient grains such as Einkorn and Emmer is more popular in Italy than in the U.S, and these grains have weaker gluten structure and lower gluten content. This therefore results in easier digestibility and reduced digestive discomfort, making our stomachs happier after eating in Florence! People always said that the ingredients in Italian dishes were so much better for your stomachs and now I understand why. I also learned that the best gelato places keep their gelato in these metal tins that are set to the perfect temperature and keep the gelato perfectly cold and creamy without making it overly hard! I do have to agree with this, and enjoyed my gelato better when the place stored it in these tins.

Photos from the Week!

Week 8

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A’Marenna
Sandwich Shop
Sorrento, Italy
10/24/24

              This week I went to Sorrento, Italy! One of my closest friends from Elon is staying there, and she has heard all the rave over a local sandwich shop called A’Marenna. The line was out the door, and although it took a long time to get our food, the wait was so worth it. The place is a cozy little shop on one of the side streets leading towards the main tourist street in Sorrento, and two ladies ran the whole shop. At one point, the owner whipped out a microphone and started singing an Italian song! This was so enjoyable and fun, and really smart because of how long the line was. She knew how to entertain and thanked us all for waiting.

              I ended up ordering the Concett, which contained puglia stracciatella cheese, pistachio cream, tropea caramelized onions, and crunchy fried onions. It was served on Panuozzo bread, an Italian pizza bread that is stuffed and made into the delicious sandwiches we were served. This was an absolutely phenomenal sandwich. It was very thinly pressed, almost like a panini, but packed with flavor. The stracciatella cheese was so fresh, gooey, and rich, oozing out of the sandwich with every bite. The pistachio cream, subtle yet nutty, added an extra layer of flavor that I’ve totally fallen in love with. The onions, both caramelized and fried, brought the perfect balance of sweetness and crunch, elevating every bite. All of the ingredients were perfectly paired, making a fantastic sandwich.

Overall rating: 7.9/10

School Dinner
School
Sorrento, Italy
10/24/24

              My friend Julia, who I visited in Sorrento, attends the Sant’Anna Institute of Sorrento, and one of their housing options offers a meal plan where students can enjoy homemade dinners prepared and served by a local couple. Since Julia is a campus ambassador, she was able to sign us up for the dinner, even though we don’t live there. It was such a treat! Not only did I get to enjoy a home-cooked Italian meal, but I also got to see the place, chat with the chefs, and reconnect with a bunch of Elon friends I hadn’t seen since last spring.

              The first course was a pasta dish. A mix of mozzarella, tomato sauce, potatoes, onions, and various pasta shapes all mixed together. It was rich, and the pasta had soaked up the sauce so much that it almost reminded me of risotto. Each bite was hot and packed with flavor. The onions and potatoes gave the dish a creamy yet fresh texture, balancing out the richness of the cheese and sauce.

              For the main course, we had beef meatballs, a fresh salad, and grilled peppers. Julia, who is Italian, mentioned that the meatballs were nearly as good as her grandma’s, which is a huge compliment to the chef! These meatballs were some of the best I’ve ever had. They were unbelievably tender, almost melting in my mouth, with a tomato-based flavor and just the right amount of seasoning. The salad, dressed with a tangy vinegar dressing, was incredibly refreshing, while the grilled peppers were sweet and ripe.

              To finish off the meal, we had tiramisu. Even though I’m not a big fan of coffee, I absolutely loved this dessert. The mascarpone was so light and fluffy and had a delicate vanilla flavor that balanced out the coffee-soaked ladyfingers. Overall, the dish was lovely, and it was exciting to eat a home-cooked meal!

Overall Rating: 8.6/10

L’Abate
Italian Restaurant
Sorrento, Italy
10/25/24

              L’Abate was such a treat while visiting Sorrento. It is a beautiful Italian restaurant right in the center of the city, and the service was fantastic. Right away, we were welcomed by the nicely dressed waiters, and we were instantly given delicious, homemade-tasting bread.

              One thing I learned about L’Abate is that the chefs carefully design each dish to engage all the senses. Whether it’s the presentation, aroma, or the feel of the dish, every detail is crafted with intention. The restaurant’s atmosphere, combined with the charismatic staff, really made the experience better. The waitstaff was not only incredibly friendly but also showed genuine interest in us, checking on us often and cracking jokes throughout the night. As a lovely surprise, we were treated to complimentary pizza bread, which was essentially pizza dough topped with sauce and spices. It was incredible: crispy on the outside, doughy on the inside, and packed with bold Italian seasonings.

              For my main course, I went with the gnocchi, not realizing at first that Sorrento is famous for its Gnocchi alla Sorrentina. This signature dish features pillowy gnocchi smothered in fresh tomato sauce, topped with Treccia cheese, and finished with fresh basil. Let me tell you, it was delicious. The gnocchi were perfectly chewy with a light potato flavor, and the tomato sauce was a balance of sweet and tangy. The melted cheese was rich and creamy, coating the gnocchi beautifully, and every bite was satisfying. I would definitely return to L’Abate, not just for the food but for the warm and engaging service.

Overall Rating: 9.2/10

Home-cooked Meal
Apartment
Sorrento, Italy
10/26/24

              My friends and I decided to cook at home for one of our dinners, and Julia, being Italian, knew exactly how to make a delicious meal on a college budget. We kicked things off with a classic Caprese salad, slicing up fresh tomatoes and buffalo mozzarella that Julia picked up from a nearby deli. The mozzarella was by far some of the best I’ve ever had. It was so creamy and fresh. We drizzled everything with olive oil and balsamic glaze and topped it with basil. The tomatoes were incredibly juicy, and the combination of the rich cheese, tangy glaze, and fresh basil made for a perfect, simple appetizer.

              Next, we made an arugula, watermelon, and feta salad, which was so refreshing. I love adding fruit to salads, but I hadn’t tried this combo before, and it was so easy to make. I washed the arugula, chopped the watermelon, crumbled the feta, and tossed it all together with a drizzle of olive oil and balsamic. Despite its simplicity, the salad was packed with flavor. The salty, tangy feta paired with the sweet, juicy watermelon created a vibrant and refreshing dish.

              Lastly, we made fried eggplant, which I have never made before, but am such a big fan of. We started by “sweating” the eggplant, cutting it thinly,

sprinkling it with salt, covering it with weight, and letting it sit for 30 minutes or so to get out the juices. Then, we coated each slice in flour, dipped it in egg, and finally, covered it in breadcrumbs. After prepping around 60 pieces, we fried them one by one until they turned golden brown. The result was incredible. The eggplant was perfectly seasoned, with a crispy, golden breading that contrasted beautifully with the soft, warm interior. It was such a satisfying and flavorful dish to end our homemade meal.

Overall rating: 8.6/10

Raki
Gelato Dessert
Sorrento, Italy
10/26/24

              After declaring the gelato I had in Florence as the best I’ve ever tasted, I need to talk about a gelato chain in Sorrento called “Raki.” Without a doubt, this was the best gelato, and possibly one of the best desserts I’ve ever had. During my three-day stay in Sorrento, I went to Raki FIVE times, and each visit was just as perfect as the last. It was also so affordable.

              My favorite flavors were hazelnut and pistachio, but the pistachio was truly exceptional. I can’t even begin to describe how amazing it was. It had this subtle, nutty pistachio flavor that tasted like a real pistachio, but with perfect sweetness. The texture was smooth and creamy, soft and light, and chilled just right. Also, it didn’t leave me feeling overly full or heavy, which made it all the more enjoyable. If you ever visit Sorrento, I highly recommend stopping by Raki.

Overall Rating: 9.8/10

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Week 9

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Grønt Marked Nørrebro
Bakery
Copenhagen, Denmark
11/2/24

              This week, I volunteered at a unique farmers’ market in Copenhagen called “Grønt Marked.” It is a non-profit organization dedicated to making fresh, local food more accessible to the community while fostering a close connection between farmers and consumers. What struck me most was the market’s commitment to shared values like environmental care, sustainability, and animal welfare. As I spoke with a few of the vendors, it was clear that their produce was the result of their own hands-on, daily work in the fields. Their passion wasn’t about profit; it was about offering the freshest, most nutritious food while promoting sustainable and regenerative farming practices. Their dedication to feeding both people and the environment was awesome.

              The atmosphere at Grønt Marked was incredibly warm and welcoming as well. The vendors clearly poured love and care into every product, wanting to make a positive impact on both the health of the community and the planet. I was part of the volunteer team, helping to set up tables, greet visitors, and serve coffee. As a perk of volunteering, I got a discount and couldn’t resist buying some produce. I ended up getting lettuce, peppers, potatoes, flowers, and a jar of the most delicious honey I’ve ever tasted. The potatoes were so earthy, and the peppers were packed with flavor and so vibrantly colored. The honey was also incredible; it had a thick, paste-like consistency, which was so interesting, yet I loved it.

Overall Rating: 9.5/10

Pure Dansk
Hummus Making Class
Copenhagen, Denmark
10/29/24

              As part of my sustainable food production class, we had a guest speaker from Pure Dansk, a Danish organic legume company founded in 2020 by two sisters, Astrid and Malene. They work with nine Danish farmers who cultivate various legumes. I learned that legumes are naturally gluten-free, and 100 grams of cooked or soaked legumes daily fulfills all your protein needs! Astrid explained that although sustainable production costs more, they use eco-friendly packaging and prioritize waste recycling. Their products are grown, rinsed, and packed in Denmark, and the packaging is cradle-to-cradle certified.

              During her presentation, she highlighted three legumes, including Ingrid æter, which are yellow peas that we used for hummus. These peas had a nutty, slightly sweet flavor and are a chickpea substitute since Denmark’s climate doesn’t support chickpeas. We also learned about hestebønner (brown fava beans) with a deeper flavor and Anicia linser (green lentils) that have a distinct bite and versatility. Finally, we covered Grå ærter, or “gray peas,” which actually look brown and can substitute hazelnuts with their nutty taste.

              We made the hummus by blending Ingrid æter with olive oil, salt, pepper, water, and lemon juice. The flavor was a bit nuttier than traditional chickpea hummus, and it paired wonderfully with crackers and carrots. This easy recipe would make a perfect, simple snack for college students.

Overall Rating: 7.9/10

Meta Fermentary
Workshop
Copenhagen, Denmark
10/30/24

              In my sustainability class, we took a field trip to a houseboat, where we met Ezio Bertorelli, a former Noma chef who runs Meta Fermentary. We started by learning about fermentation’s benefits on gut health and its impact on mood and well-being. Chef Bertorelli offers fermented foods to restaurants to add nutrition and flavor depth. We sampled tempeh fried in butter, which was delicious, and homemade, fermented dips on sourdough, like spicy oil, miso butter, and rice water, each with unique flavors.

              We made miso paste using fava beans and barley. After grinding the beans and barley, we mixed in Koji (Aspergillus oryzae), which aids fermentation. We compacted the mixture into jars with salt, adding rocks on top for pressure. The paste will ferment until the end of the semester when we’ll try it.

Overall Rating: 6.8/10

Frydenlund Slots Frugtplantage
Orchard
Vedbæk, Denmark
11/1/24

              My friends and I were in the fall mood and decided to go apple picking! We visited an orchard outside Copenhagen and had an amazing time. After a scenic trail, we arrived at the orchard with a shop offering products like apple juice, dressings, and compote, all made with orchard apples. We sampled different apple varieties, and I loved the Ingrid Marie for its sweetness. Cox Orange was also great, though the Ingrid Marie stood out.

              Picking apples was a treat! The orchard grows over 20 varieties, all chosen for their unique taste, ripeness, and ecological compatibility. I picked a mix of red, green, and yellow apples, each juicy, crispy, and flavorful, and bought some apple juice, which was pure, sweet, and refreshingly crisp—one of the best I’ve ever had.

Overall Rating: 9.6/10

Sustainable Meal Project
Class Project
Copenhagen, Denmark
11/1/24

              For my food production and consumption class, I created a sustainable meal with my group focusing on a protein-rich, waste-reducing dish. We made a chickpea-based salad with kale, apples, almonds, tomatoes, baked chickpeas, and carrots for a meaty taste and good protein content. We used the TooGoodToGo app to source bread, preventing waste. My vegetarian friend tried it, enjoyed it, and suggested adding cheese for a broader food group range. I’m thrilled with how it turned out and will definitely make it again!

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Week 10

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Sacrée Fleur
French Restaurant
Paris, France
11/8/24

              This week I ate in Paris!! I really wanted to treat myself to a nice steak while in Paris, so prior to coming I did a lot of research. I ended up landing on Sacrée Fleur which is a traditional French cuisine restaurant that focused on beef dishes. They had a very specific reservation signup, that allowed you to sit for 2 hours max, because the place was pretty small. This did make it feel more intimate though, and I felt more cared for by the staff. I ordered a flank steak, and all of their steaks come with a side salad, fries, and three dips. The dips had flavor pallets blue cheese, shallot, and pepper, and I shockingly liked all of them. The flank steak was cooked perfectly, and it was unbelievably juicy. As I was cutting into the tender flank, liquids would ooze out, and create the most delicious aroma. The steak was very flavorful and didn’t have too strong of a meat taste, it was quite perfect. It was also very big and priced so affordably.

              The sauces were so unique yet complimented the steak so well. I tried the pepper sauce first which reminded me of dijon mustard, but was more creamy and peppery. This was probably my least favorite, I think because of how strong of a pepper taste it was. Others may enjoy this, but I didn’t like that the pepper overpowered the steak taste. I then tried the shallot sauce which was my favorite. It reminded me of a thicker french onion soup. It had the perfect shallot taste, while still remaining light enough to not overpower the steak. It also had pieces of shallots in it which I really liked. The final sauce was the bleu cheese sauce and let me tell you, I cannot stand the taste of bleu cheese, but I shockingly really enjoyed this on my fries. It had the most subtle taste of all of the sauces, and had a sweet creamy side to it that paired so well with my hot fries. It didn’t really taste like bleu cheese, but still offered that subtle cheesy flavor to compliment the dish.

              The salad and fries were also wonderful. The salad was so simple but had a tart vinaigrette dressing that was so refreshing and worked really well with the steak. The FRENCH fries were also delicious, as they should be! They seemed to have more potato in them than american fries, which I definitely prefer, and they were so crispy, golden brown, and piping hot. They tasted more like fresh cut potatoes vs frozen fries that a lot of American fast food places have. I was so full after this meal and liked everything on my plate.

Overall Rating: 8.7/10

East Mamma
Italian Restaurant
Paris, France
11/9/24

              Now let me tell you, this was by far one of the best meals I have had while abroad thus far. I have two friends who went to Paris the week before me and recommended going to East Mamma. This is an Italian restaurant that may have served me one of the top three pasta dishes I have ever had in my life. The place itself had such a great vibe, and the entire menu looked great. I learned that the menu also changes monthly, depending on the seasonal ingredients and their arrivals, so everything they offered was the freshest at the time. I ordered the truffle pasta, my mind was set on it before even coming in. I am a big truffle fan, but let me tell you, this dish was exceptional. My other friend at the table also wanted to order the pasta and saw that there was an option to pay a little more if we wanted to get it served in a cheese wheel for two people. We of course had to order it out of the wheel so that I could get better content for you all ;), and it also made it taste cheesier and better.

              The waiter brought out a huge cheese wheel where he mixed the pasta and then served it to my friend and I in these cool metal pots. The wheel was an experience in itself, and the chunks of cheese from the wheel mixed into the dish made it top tier. The pasta was homemade mafaldine, which I have never had before but it was chewy and thick and quite perfect. It was mixed in mascarpone cream, fresh black truffle from italy, and covered in indulgent truffle all throughout. The sauce was creamy and so cheesy, with a perfect blend of truffle, and couldn’t have been better. This dish was quite perfect, I can’t explain to you how delectable it was. We were also given so much. It was a very heavy meal, but truly some of the best pasta I have ever had.

Overall Rating: 9.9/10 (highest so far)

Carette
Breakfast Restaurant
Paris, France
11/10/24

              Another recommendation before coming to Paris was to go to Carette for the best hot chocolate. I did really enjoy this place, but I do think it was a little overpriced and overrated. It was still good though! Before my morning flight my friends and I stopped here, and I was on a mission to get a croissant and of course try the hot chocolate. It was a very big place, and was very cute looking, so I enjoyed the vibe of it. I ended up ordering the hot chocolate, a croissant, and a cucumber finger sandwich. When they came out with the hot chocolate, the waitress brought a big pot of the thick hot chocolate, paired with a large side of whipped cream. She poured the hot chocolate into my mug and then I was able to scoop my fluffy whipped cream into it. I don’t love whipped cream but this one was so light and didn’t have too sweet of a taste which was perfect to pair with the thick and chocolatey drink. The hot chocolate was perfectly warm and did in fact taste like warm melted chocolate. It wasn’t unbelievably thick which was nice, but it wasn’t watered down at all.

              I then tried the croissant and I will say it was pretty great. It was very buttery and moist on the inside, while the outside crust was still flaky and had a nice crunch to it. It melted in my mouth and paired really well with the hot chocolate. I don’t know if this was necessarily the best croissant I have ever had, which was my hope since I was in France, but for being a french pastry, it was made really well at Carette. Then lastly, I tried the finger sandwich. I expected this to be filled with cucumbers and cream cheese, but the cucumbers were paired with some dill cream that I wasn’t a huge fan of. It was still refreshing but I most likely wouldn’t get this again. Overall I really enjoyed my hot chocolate and croissant.

Overall Rating: 7.7/10

Ladurée
Pastry Shop
Paris, France
11/9/24

              I wasn’t aware how known Ladurée was, not only in Paris, but in a lot of parts of the world as well. I was on a mission to try a really fantastic macaron while in Paris, and I tried four different ones, and Ladurée was my favorite. Ladurée is a manufacturer and retailer of high-end pastries and candy and was established in 1862! I didn’t realize how long it had been around. Although Ladurée makes pastries as well, it is definitely well-known throughout the world for its macarons, so I had to try one while in Paris, where its head office is located.

              I got the vanilla macaron and it quite literally melted in my mouth. It had a nice vanilla bean flavor to it while not being too sweet. The outer shell was crisp but gave way to a soft, chewy center, filled with a velvety vanilla ganache. This cream was thick but not overpowering, and melted so nicely into the cookie. I am typically a chocolate fan, but my friend got the vanilla one and said I had to try it. It was very good, but I would probably try the chocolate or even the pistachio next time. I did try a pistachio one at a restaurant while in Paris and it wasn’t nearly as good, so I do think that Ladurée does it best, I just chose the wrong flavor.

Overall Rating: 7.1/10

Wrap up

              Paris was awesome, and the food definitely made it even better. One standout that I wanted to mention was the crepe I had at the Eiffel Tower! All around the Eiffel Tower at all times of day, there were multiple vendors selling fresh crepes. I love crepes and have not had one in a really long time. As my friends and I watched the Eiffel Tower sparkle, we had to eat a crepe to make the experience better. I ordered a Nutella crepe for only five euros and it was piping hot. I loved watching the vendor make the crepe because it is such a simple and quick process, yet turns out so delicious every time! The crepe dough was thin and delicate, but had a slightly crisp edge that softened toward the center. The flavor was sweet yet not too strong, and had an almost airy texture. The smothered Nutella melted in my mouth and oozed out when I took a bite. It was the perfect treat to end my night.

Photos from the Week!