Latest news with #Michelin-starred
Forbes
an hour ago
- Entertainment
- Forbes
3 Amazing Off-The-Beaten Path Things To Do In Chicago
Chicago is full of fun things to do, see, and eat. getty If you're a seasoned and savvy traveler, and you've been to all of the major tourist spots in Chicago many times before—Navy Pier, 'The Bean', The Magnificent Mile—add something extraordinary and curious to your itinerary this time around. Chicago is full of excellent places to eat. getty Now operating out of bigger and better digs, Duck Sel, Michelin-starred chef Donald Young's brainchild, is back in business. Since the initial launch in 2021, this culinary juggernaut has evolved into an experience like no other—especially since it was named a semifinalist for a James Beard Best Chef: Great Lakes award. But, I can't tell you where. It's a secret. Seriously. Once you book your preferred time slot and date, you'll be notified that the address will be given just before your reservation. You'll be given a code and a secret password to enter and once inside you'll be taken on a wild and whimsical ride through 15 courses. Young will walk you through each plated dish, relaying stories from not only his childhood, but also, his classical French training in France and his avant-garde techniques he learned on his own. There will be surprises—you won't find spoilers here. This will be the dinner you tell all your friends about later. The Chicago Fire at a recent match at Soldier Field. Wendy Altschuler Soon, there will be a new massive privately-funded soccer-specific stadium for The Chicago Fire, built in the city's newest neighborhood: The 78. But, until that grand day comes, The Men in Red will play at Soldier Field for loyal fans at home matches. Whether you purchase a single-match ticket, or you're looking for something a bit more special with Premium Seating—Fieldside Seats and Lounges or Executive and Skyline Suites, you'll enjoy a thrilling time from the first whistle to the last. Where to stay: Located within walking distance, Hyatt Regency McCormick Place Chicago has everything you might need. For dining and drinks, pop in Arc Bar, Sixes and Eights, or Third Star, or grab snacks from Market. The fitness studio and swimming pool also make this hotel an excellent choice for families. Hyatt, the official sponsor of Chicago Fire FC, is the perfect choice. For Fitness Buffs Who Love Fresh Air The waterfront bike trail along the Lake Michigan shore, with the downtown skyline, is an incredible sight to see. getty Chicago has plenty to do in the summertime and it's no surprise that the outdoors are where locals and visitors like to hang out. The Windy City's 18-mile Lakefront Trail, operated by the Chicago Park District, is the ideal place to go for running, walking, biking, and indulging in the best of what this season has to offer. Stretching from Ardmore Avenue on the north side to 71st Street on the south side, this trail provides not only access to the lake, parks, and beaches, but also, an opportunity to get your work out in while exploring the city. And if you get hungry, there are plenty of places to stop and eat along the way. Pro tips: One of the city's best gems, the Lakefront Trail is a dream for cyclist. Whether you hop on the trail at Monroe Street, near Millennium Park and Buckingham Fountain; Museum Campus; or Montrose, you'll have a wonderful day riding along Lake Michigan. For supreme comfort while riding, choose cycling jerseys, bibs, and shorts from Mission Workshop—you'll love the soft feel, extra pockets, and protective chamois. Finally, if you plan on riding the whole trail—or further—you may want to invest in an on-bike storage system that can hold all of your supplies. The longer you can be outside, enjoying Chicago's paved waterfront trail, the better.
Miami Herald
an hour ago
- Entertainment
- Miami Herald
This Miami restaurant has a Michelin star and an award-winning chef. Now it's closing
Another Michelin-starred Miami restaurant is closing, this one from a celebrated James Beard Award-winning chef. Itamae Ao, the stunning 10-seat Peruvian-Japanese restaurant in Midtown from Chef Nando Chang, has announced that it's closing, with the final service Saturday, Aug. 2. The announcement comes a month after Maty's, the Peruvian restaurant operated by Chang's sister Valerie, also a James Beard Award winner, shut down. Itamae Ao's future was immediately uncertain: It's accessed through the adjoining Maty's space, and with Maty's closure, there was no way for customers to enter the smaller restaurant. Chang, who said he is looking for a new home for his award-winning concept, said he was grateful for 'the great run we've had in this special space.' 'Itamae AO has always been closely tied to Maty's — not just because my sister was its chef but because it literally serves as the entrance to our restaurant,' he said. 'When she stepped away, we knew it would soon be time for us to move on as well. Itamae AO isn't going away, and I'm excited to find our new home.' This summer, while he actively seeks a new space, Chang plans to take Itamae on the road with pop-ups in Milwaukee and New York City. The Changs entered the Miami restaurant industry with their father Fernando, operating the original Itamae counter at a Design District food hall. Later, they opened the restaurant as a standalone. Valerie Chang went on to open Maty's, earning the James Beard Award for Best Chef: South in 2024; her brother earned the same award in 2025, a two months after Itamae Ao earned a Michelin star. The guide praised Chang's skill with classic Peruvian-Japanese flavors. 'Searing levels of acidity and spice figure prominently on this bold tasting menu, often in the form of leche de tigre,' the guide says. 'From lobster bisque with sweet potato gnocchi to creamy rice with Hokkaido scallops and parmesan, the cooking possesses style and substance in spades.' At the Michelin ceremony in Orlando, Chang delivered an emotional speech, thanking his family and the city where he has found a home. 'I want to say I could not be prouder . . . to be a part of this beautiful country,' he said. 'Thank you, America, and thank you, Miami. ' He also thanked the James Beard Foundation for their commitment to diversity: 'All food is immigrant and immigrants make America great.'
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Travel + Leisure
3 hours ago
- Travel + Leisure
These Are the Top 100 Hotel Restaurants in the U.S., According to OpenTable and Kayak
Gone are the days of bland hotel breakfasts and lifeless nighttime buffets. Now, hotels and resorts are dedicated to making each meal better than the last. And with keeping the trend of hotel restaurants becoming destinations in their own right in mind, booking site Kayak and OpenTable worked together to release their first-ever list of the top 100 hotel restaurants in America. The list was created based on "diner insights" and spanned more than two dozen states, including spots from James Beard Award winners and Michelin-starred haunts. "Hotel restaurants have become formidable players over the years as hoteliers have recognized the power of serving their guests memorable and locally-inspired dining experiences," Scott Hudson, the VP of global sales and services at OpenTable, said in a statement. "The hotel restaurants we have on OpenTable are not just attractive to the 60 percent of diners that use us while on the road—but many are equally as popular among locals too." Orlando topped the list with seven total restaurants in the area (which also encompassed Lake Buena Vista and Golden Oak), including Nami, the Bull & Bear Steakhouse, and Ravello at Four Seasons Orlando. Next was Las Vegas where six Sin City restaurants make the list. Those included Beauty & Essex, the Catch at Aria, and Momofuku Las Vegas. Miami also boasted five of the top hotel restaurants in the country, including Gianni's at the Former Versace Mansion, and The Roof at Esmé. Other highlights on the list included California's three Michelin-starred Addison in the Fairmont Grand Del Mar and Philadelphia's Vernick Fish from James Beard-winning Chef Greg Vernick. The abundance of incredible hotel restaurants is great news considering nearly half of Americans (47 percent) said they have booked a trip specifically to visit a restaurant, according to the study."Travelers aren't just asking 'Where should I go?' They're asking 'What's on the menu when I get there?'" Kate Williams, the chief communications officer at Kayak, said in the statement. "Great dining experiences are an essential part of today's travel itineraries, and hotels are rising to the occasion." To complete the study, Kayak and OpenTable surveyed more than 1,000 Americans who had dined at a restaurant in a hotel within the last five years as well as looked at data on flight and hotel searches made on Kayak between Jan. 1 and June 22. OpenTable also analyzed seated diners by traveler type from online reservations for all active hotel restaurants on the OpenTable platform in the United States between June 1, 2024, and May 31, 2025. See all the winners, and find your next hotel and restaurant to book all in one, at
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Travel + Leisure
3 hours ago
- Travel + Leisure
I've Spent 13 Years Visiting the Same Stretch of Florida Beach—Here's Why I Love It
Top 5 Can't Miss Wide, clean, and sparkling, Fort Lauderdale's beaches are an integral part of any visit. Local restaurants, art galleries, curated shops, and more are found along the pedestrian-friendly Las Olas Boulevard. The city is home to stylish, five-star hotels like the Four Seasons Hotel and Residences Fort Lauderdale, where you'll immediately feel at home as you're offered a glass of bubbly or chilled water in a sustainable aluminum bottle. This feeling extends throughout the property's common areas and in the private guest rooms. Fort Lauderdale's first Michelin-starred restaurant, Maas, offers both chef tastings with thoughtful wine pairings and a la carte options. Water taxi rides along the New River and Intracoastal Waterway make for a fun sightseeing experience. When I first started dating my now-husband, Steve, over a decade ago, I didn't expect Fort Lauderdale to become such a recurring character in my life. But Steve's family lived in the area, and when he invited me to join him for Thanksgiving to meet his family, I, of course, jumped at the opportunity. In addition to being excited about the relationship milestone, I was equally thrilled to escape New York City just as the weather was starting to turn chilly. Although Steve's family lived inland, he promised we could stay at one of the hotels lining Fort Lauderdale's A1A, the scenic coastal highway that runs along much of Florida's Atlantic coastline. That first hotel has since closed, and in many ways, the city has transformed. Once the initial thrill of warm-weather holidays and meet-the-family nerves wore off—and after I'd spent plenty of time with my toes in the sand—I began to see a more layered destination. The beachfront evolved, with sleek five-star hotels and upscale restaurants popping up. The arts district took on a new life as its own dedicated neighborhood. And somehow, a few old dive bars and beach shops managed to hang on. Slowly, I started to get excited about what a long weekend in Fort Lauderdale could hold. Most notably, for me, a New Yorker who considers finding her next great meal an art, I found myself back home gushing to friends and family about all the great food we had experienced on our most recent trip to Fort Lauderdale. But don't just take my word for it. Local expert Jenni Morejon, president and CEO of Fort Lauderdale Downtown Development Authority, has strong opinions on this up-and-coming Florida city. Move over, Miami: There's a new sunshine scene-stealer in town. Best Hotels & Resorts A guest room inside the Four Seasons Hotel Fort Lauderdale. Four Seasons Hotels Conrad Fort Lauderdale Beach For an upscale suite stay, the Conrad is a standout, where you'll wish you could stay longer. 'You won't find softer hotel sheets in any other luxury hotel,' writes Travel + Leisure contributor Lydia Mansel—and probably not a better ocean-view ping-pong table either. Four Seasons Hotel and Residences Fort Lauderdale Opened in 2023, this glamorous yet understated property quickly became one of the hottest stays in town. Expect warm, five-star service, spacious rooms, and marble bathrooms, plus a stylish lobby. The Ritz-Carlton, Fort Lauderdale This central beach property delivers the kind of excellent service Ritz-Carlton loyalists have come to expect from the brand. Post up at one of the hotel's beach chairs if you're feeling a toes-in-sand day, and don't forget to inquire about the complimentary water taxi service. W Fort Lauderdale Fans of the W know they're in for a good time when they stay at one of the hip brand's properties, and those lucky enough to spend the night at the Fort Laurderdale location beeline for the the WET Deck pool, where you can relax on a lounger with a frozen cocktail in hand. Pier Sixty-Six After a billion-dollar renovation earlier this year, this iconic property opened its doors once again–this time with a glow-up of the signature rotating rooftop lounge, the Pier Top. Best Things to Do The iconic white wave wall along Fort Lauderdale's beach. Wirestock/Getty Images Bonnet House Museum & Gardens This 'beautifully preserved slice of old Fort Lauderdale is a must-visit for travelers with a keen interest in culture and history,' says Morejon of the historic 1920s home, whimsical art estate, and tropical garden escape located just off the beachfront. You might even glimpse a monkey amid the mangroves —. Historic Stranahan House Museum The city's 'oldest surviving structure serves as a gateway to our beginnings,' notes Morejon. The house, dating back to 1901, belonged to Frank Stranahan—considered Fort Lauderdale's founding father—and visitors today can learn more through a guided tour of the home, which contains many original furnishings. Broward Center for the Performing Arts 'Anyone with an appreciation for live performances should be sure to check the schedule,' Morejon says of the Broward Center for the Performing Arts. The downtown Fort Lauderdale venue hosts a full slate of Broadway tours, ballets, operas, comedy shows, concerts, and community performances across its two main theaters. Beaches 'The pristine golden sands remain a draw for the city,' Morejon admits. Even if the beaches are just one part of the South Florida city's identity, you can't do wrong whiling away a couple of hours on the sand, whether that's going for a long stroll, swimming in the ocean, or working on your tan. Best Restaurants Interior dining room at Daniel's: A Florida Steakhouse. The Louis Collection Maass Deserving of its Michelin star, Maass, located in the Four Seasons, is perhaps best known for its chef's counter tasting experience where guests get to choose their chopstick holders and steak knife. The cocktail program is excellent, but the wine pairing is the real move here. Heritage As a New Yorker, I take my pizza seriously, so when I stumbled into Heritage last year and tasted their pizza (and stuffed peppers, pasta, chopped salad, and olive oil cake), I knew I'd found something special. I've been back to the Bib Gourmand spot on every visit since, and can't wait to return. Daniel's: A Florida Steakhouse Morejon says Daniel's 'helped elevate the dining scene in downtown.' The full dinner experience is worth it, but if you only have time to visit during happy hour, you simply must order the wagyu smash burger and perhaps a paloma. Best Time to Visit Aerial view of Fort best time to visit Fort Lauderdale is from October to May when the weather is about as glorious as it gets: sunny skies, warm temperatures, and (relatively) low humidity. Summer is considered low season due to the heat (and the start of hurricane season), but that also means fewer crowds and better hotel deals. That said, Fort Lauderdale is built to handle the heat. Most restaurants, bars, and shops have strong air conditioning, and between dips in the ocean (or your hotel pool) and time spent exploring the city's scene beyond the beach, you might find the summer weather surprisingly manageable. If you're visiting around Thanksgiving, consider signing up for the Fort Lauderdale Turkey Trot, a scenic 5K that winds along A1A with ocean views the whole way. Whether you run, jog, or walk it, the reward is the same—a beachside brunch or a cold drink after crossing the finish line. How to Get There An airplane flying over a sign pointing to the Fort Lauderdale Lauderdale is easy to reach, with plenty of direct flights from major cities across the U.S. You can drive, but keep in mind that Florida is a big state, so if you're coming from out of state, especially the north, expect a long haul to reach South Florida. Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport (FLL) is the most convenient option; it's compact, easy to navigate, and just a short drive from the beach and downtown. Miami International (MIA) and Palm Beach International (PBI) are alternatives, but they're farther from the city center and usually less ideal, unless you find a significantly better fare or flight time from your departure city. Neighborhoods to Visit A pedestrian walkway around the water in Fort Lauderdale. Kelsey Glennon/Travel + Leisure Downtown Fort Lauderdale and Las Olas 'Downtown Fort Lauderdale and Las Olas remain at the center of the action, constantly evolving with new residential towers, office spaces, and public areas that foster genuine human connection,' says Morejon. Sailboat Bend A historic neighborhood west of downtown, near the Broward Center for the Performing Arts and the New River, Sailboat Bend 'offers tree-lined streets, historic architecture, and a more relaxed pace,' says Morejon. It's convenient location 'just beyond the urban core,' makes it an easy add to any Fort Lauderdale itinerary. FAT Village Morejon calls the the Flagler Arts and Technology area the 'heart of the city's creative artists, teeming with murals, art galleries, and regular art walks that highlight the city's growing role as a cultural destination.' How to Get Around Bicycles parked on Fort Lauderdale and car services like Uber and Lyft operate throughout the Fort Lauderdale area. They're both plentiful and inexpensive. You don't need a car if you're flying in from out of town, but if you prefer being behind the wheel, you can certainly rent one. Be aware that parking near the beach is difficult, and most of the hotels along the strip charge somewhat steep daily valet fees. There's also a water taxi that takes passengers across three interconnectable routes in Pompano Beach, Hollywood, and Fort Lauderdale. It's a fun tourist activity, and a cool way to see some of South Florida's best destinations, but it's also a functional means of transport, 'connecting many popular neighborhoods, restaurants, and hotels,' notes Morejon.
The Advertiser
3 hours ago
- Entertainment
- The Advertiser
9 unmissable new luxury experiences in Asia that are worth the splurge
These hot new stays and services prove Asia does luxe best. Fairmont Udaipur supplied By Carrie Hutchinson The Aussie dollar's not stretching far in Europe or the US - but in Asia? It still buys you serious luxury. Think top-tier service, bold design and stays that are anything but ordinary. From jungle spas to design-led villas and palace hotels, these are the newest places to spoil yourself sensibly. Subscribe now for unlimited access. or signup to continue reading All articles from our website The digital version of Today's Paper All other in your area 1. Fine dining meets star power Chef Andre Chiang in the Kitchen. Picture supplied Michelin-starred chefs are bringing their celebrity to Singapore. Like Madonna, he goes by one name only, and now chef Fei (real name: Fei Lianghui) offers a contemporary take on Cantonese and Teochew cuisines at the Mandarin Oriental's Cherry Garden. His aromatic lobster creation, with basil and pickled mustard greens, is an homage to Chaoshan, where he grew up. Take the pressure out of ordering by choosing a set menu, starting at about $165 a person. Across town, Taiwanese chef Andre Chiang is setting up a culinary home at Raffles, where he's been the artist in residence while writing his book, Fragments of Time . His outpost, in the hotel's most elegant dining space, opens later this year. 2. The world's biggest infinity bath Spa Junglia. Picture supplied Soak away stress on Japan's tropical Okinawa island. This week saw the scheduled opening of Spa Junglia, and the Guinness Book of Records has already certified its public infinity bath, at nearly 83 square metres, as the biggest on Earth. The views of dense mountain-side forest are hard to beat, but there's also an onsen, sauna, cold plunge and cave bath. It's part of a huge entertainment destination, so send the kids off to Dinosaur Safari - the landscape bears more than a passing resemblance to Jurassic Park - while you kick back. 3. A Maldivian retreat for mind, body and sea SOUL Festival, Maldives. How do you make a Maldivian break better? Add an immersive wellness program. Soneva Fushi hosts the annual SOUL Festival (October 9-13), with a line-up of thought leaders and practitioners including biohacker Tim Gray, sound therapist Roses Gabor and longevity expert Nils Behrens. Start your day with an energising morning ritual, take part in workshops, book healing therapies at the spa and eat healthy cuisine. Of course, there's also time to explore shore and sea. From $5130 a night for two people, all-inclusive; 4. A new palace hotel with next-level grandeur Fairmont Udaipur bedroom. When you've finished dodging traffic in Delhi, head to the City of Lakes and the newly opened Fairmont Udaipur Palace. Fit for modern-day royalty, this lavish 327-room hotel set atop the Aravalli Hills is spread across a seven-hectare estate. Guests enter through a jaw-dropping fortress gateway before being welcomed beneath a sparkling chandelier. The rooms are dotted with handiwork by village craftspeople, while the restaurants serve the cuisines of India, Asia and the Mediterranean. From $443 a night; 5. Colonial charm in the Sri Lankan highlands Uga Halloowella. Picture supplied In the highlands of Sri Lanka, Channa Daswatte, protege of revered architect Geoffrey Bawa, has transformed the former residence of a World War I RAF fighter pilot. Uga Halloowella's six suites overlooking a tea plantation have an eclectic colonial vibe, but it's the attention to detail - a butler attending to all your tea-drinking needs, exquisite cuisine inspired by its location, and thoughtful excursions - that makes this boutique hotel a gentle retreat into times past. From about $1200 a night; Ne. Picture supplied Japan has become one of Australia's favourite travel destinations, but if you're keen to avoid crowds, head outside Tokyo and Kyoto. Set on farmland outside Shibata City, two hours by fast train from Tokyo, is Ne, offering an exclusive, all-inclusive, cuisine-focused rental for a party of up to four adults. Designed by architect Kenta Fukunishi, Ne is built using wood, earth from the property and locally fired Yasuda tiles. The commitment to sustainability and local culture at the eye-catching property runs deep. Chef Makoto Fuse, who studied the culinary arts in Paris, sources ingredients from the local area - he dries mountain herbs, makes spices from crushed branches and ferments vegetables for broth - and returns anything unused to the earth. Opens in August; from $2075 a night for two; 7. Temples, tuk-tuks and the Ganges in style See India on a Globus cruise. Picture supplied Ready to dip your toe into the world of river cruising? Globus's new 13-day Heritage of India & the Ganges River tour and cruise (from $8668 a person, twin-share) blends land and water activities. See the Taj Mahal at sunset, ride a rickshaw through Chandni Chowk bazaar and visit the spectacular Amber Fort before setting sail down the Ganges from Kolkata. 8. Adults-only glamping in Phuket Twinpalms Tented Camp in Phuket. Picture supplied Bustling Phuket now has a chic adults-only glamping retreat. Twinpalms Tented Camp has 29 spacious safari-style canvas abodes, some with their own plunge pools, set back from Bang Tao Beach on Phuket's west coast. Rather than full moon parties and Muay Thai fights, this is a retreat for those ready to immerse themselves in nature and enjoy the finer things in life, like island hopping on a superyacht. From $270 a night; 9. A boundary-blurring new dining experience 9 unmissable new luxury experiences in Asia that are worth the splurge British chef Joshua Paris has worked across the world - including at the Sydney Opera House restaurant Bennelong - and now his skills are on show at Aster by Joshua Paris. Set in Shanghai's upcoming Jing'an neighbourhood, the restaurant has a menu Paris describes as borderless, which means he blends techniques and influences from Europe, Australia and China. Be sure to order his rendition of the classic drunken pigeon, which comes with marinated foie gras. Seating just 46, the space features a purple aster flower installation floating above the bar. Speaking of which, end the night here with a cocktail and bite from the snack menu, available from 10pm.
