Tay Ho Oakland Restaurant & Bar
Tay Ho Oakland Restaurant & Bar serves authentic Vietnamese cuisine in a warm, community-focused setting in Oakland, California
Dining & Restaurant Reviews
Fort Ross Vineyard
Fort Ross Vineyard on the Sonoma Coast offers wine tasting with a Pacific Ocean view in Jenner, California
Point Reyes Farmstead Cheese Company
Point Reyes Farmstead Cheese Company crafts award-winning cheeses on a sustainable family farm – overlooking Tomales Bay – in Northern CA
Korbel Delicatessen & Market
Korbel Delicatessen & Market in Guerneville serves fresh local fare with outdoor seating amid redwoods and vineyards
Korbel California Champagne Cellars
Korbel California Champagne Cellars in Guerneville produces méthode champenoise sparkling wines and offers tours and tastings amid scenic Russian River Valley landscapes
Bird & The Bottle
Bird & The Bottle in Santa Rosa serves Korean meets American inspired small plates and cocktails in a lively, flavor-forward Sonoma setting
Moshin Winery
Moshin Winery in Healdsburg crafts sustainable, small-lot wines through their four-tier gravity-flow process, preserving the natural finesse and vibrant character of Russian River Valley grapes
MacRostie Winery
MacRostie Winery in Healdsburg offers elegant Sonoma Coast wines and guided tastings complimented by outstanding views of the Russian River Valley
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Michelin Rated & Notable Dining Reviews
Montreux Jazz Café
Dinner after listening to jazz at Montreux Jazz Café was the quintessential Montreux experience, in Montreux, Switzerland
Expendio de Maiz
The Michelin starred Expendio de Maíz offers a casual, communal dining experience centered on bespoke Mexican cuisine without a fixed menu
The Restaurant at Auberge du Soleil
Lunch at The Restaurant at Auberge du Soleil was an incredible introduction to a wonderful weekend in wine country of Northern California.
Whiskey & Seaweed by Clare Smyth
Light bites and drinks at Whiskey & Seaweed, crafted by the kitchen of Core by Clare Smyth, served a delicious procession of pretty plates - in London, England
HA’ by Carlos Gaytan
Dinner at HA’ restaurant was the perfect way to celebrate my birthday at Hotel Xcaret México in Tulum, Mexico
The Restaurant at Meadowood Napa Valley
Before it burned down, The Restaurant at Meadowood Napa Valley gave me an absolutely incredible, stunning night of service and food
The Wolf’s Tailor
At Denver’s Michelin-starred The Wolf’s Tailor, Japanese and Italian traditions are fused together using seasonal, locally sourced ingredients
kato restaurant
Kato in Los Angeles' Arts District offers a Michelin-starred Taiwanese-inspired tasting menu, blending Asian-American flavors in a sleek, minimalist space
La Paix
Having my birthday dinner at La Paix, a Michelin starred restaurant in Tokyo, Japan, was a bespoke experience in French and Japanese cuisine
Mizumi
Mizumi restaurant, in Wynn Las Vegas offers a decadent Japanese menu within a refined and beautiful environment in Las Vegas, Nevada
Sushi by Scratch Restaurants – Cedar Creek
Sushi by Scratch Restaurants in Cedar Creek outside of Austin is everything I love about omakase: decadence, deliciousness - and fun
Alinea
Alinea, a renowned culinary destination in Chicago, Illinois, offers a multi-sensory dining experience that challenges traditional food presentation with its innovative dishes.
Beckon
Beckon in Denver, Colorado, is an intimate, chef-driven restaurant offering a seasonal tasting menu that highlights meticulously crafted dishes.
Gucci Osteria Beverly Hills
Gucci Osteria in Beverly Hills delivers an upscale dining experience - where Italian-inspired cuisine meets a chic ambiance and artful presentation
n/naka
n/naka presents an exquisite kaiseki dining experience, where Chef Niki Nakayama masterfully blends traditional Japanese techniques with modern influences in a meticulously curated tasting menu
20,000 Leagues Under the Sea Dining at Lost Spirits Distillery
Dinner at 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea at Lost Spirits Distillery was deliciously, batshit wild - and perfectly fitting for Las Vegas
Pasta Bar Los Angeles by Scratch Restaurants
Dinner at Pasta Bar Los Angeles by Scratch Restaurants was a creative, curious and - above all else - delicious affair in Encino, California
Noma
Noma. Table of four. Casual perfection, defined.
Orsa & Winston
Dinner at Orsa & Winston is a delicious journey into the culinary mind of Chef Josef Centeno, pairing Italian and Japanese inspiration in DTLA
Sushi by Scratch Restaurants – Los Angeles
Dinner at Sushi by Scratch Restaurants - Los Angeles proved to be - yet again - one of the best, unique and delicious omakase sushi experiences in Encino, California
Centurion New York
Towering over the Manhattan skyline, the Centurion New York showcases a menu of contemporary cuisine, expertly led by Chef Daniel Boulud
Hestia
Hestia in Austin, Texas, is a sophisticated restaurant that centers its menu around live-fire hearth cooking of high-quality ingredients in a sleek, modern setting.
Per Se
Overlooking Central Park, Per Se in New York offers a luxurious culinary experience with artfully presented dishes that blend French technique with seasonal ingredients.
45 Grill & Health
Lunch at 45 Grill & Health offered me life giving views of Lake Geneva while enjoying mouth watering cuisine and wine of the region
The Duchess Restaurant at the W Hotel Amsterdam
Dinner at The Duchess restaurant at the W Hotel Amsterdam was a delicious, Michelin star delight - in Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Citrin
A group dinner at Citrin for DineLA Restaurant Week was a great backdrop for conversation and delicious bites in Santa Monica
Smyth
My dinner at Smyth was an incredible experience of relaxed culinary refinement through cuisine and service in Chicago, Illinois
Citrin x Mélisse
Dinner at Citrin x Mélisse was a delicious experience of gastronomic pleasure, in Santa Monica, California
Jont DC
Dinner at Jont in Washington DC firmly placed the cuisine of the restaurant as one of my favorite dining experiences in the United States
SingleThread Restaurant
Dinner at SingleThread Restaurant was an experience in decadent perfection - from service to presentation to taste - in Healdsburg, California
Providence
Dinner at Providence was my first foray into the world of Michelin starred restaurants, in Los Angeles, California
The French Laundry
Dinner at The French Laundry. Table for one. Culinary Excellence.
Vespertine
Pretty plating.....
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Experiences & Engaging Conversations
YETI’S Wild PDR Series at SingleThread Farm
YETI’s Wild PDR Series at SingleThread Farm in Healdsburg was an intimate, globally inspired dining experience that celebrated connection, diversity, and storytelling through food in the heart of Wine Country
Iron & Kin Presents an Omakase Cocktail Experience by Zach Sheldon & Garrick Gurney
An omakase cocktail experience with two of San Diego’s top bartenders offered a tasting where craft and creativity aligned in perfect balance
Curated Travel Guides
Travel Guide: Hawaii
Hawaii presents an unparalleled escape, where pristine beaches and lush rainforests converge to create a tranquil haven
Travel Guide: Lisbon, Faro & Sintra
Portugal is a coastal gem in southwestern Europe. From the vibrant capital of Lisbon and the sunny Algarve coast, Portugal combines natural beauty with a warm, delicious food culture.
Travel Guide: Paris
Paris is a city of timeless elegance, where iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and Notre-Dame stand as symbols of art, history, and romance
Travel Guide: London, England
London, England is city where historic landmarks merge with modern elegance to offer unparalleled sophistication through museums, delicious dining, and cultural experiences
Travel Guide: British Columbia, Canada
British Columbia, Canada’s westernmost province, is renowned for its stunning landscapes—rugged coastlines, vibrant rainforests, and the majestic Rockies—alongside vibrant cities like Vancouver and Whistler.
Travel Guide: Chicago
Chicago is a dynamic city known for its striking skyline, deep rooted culture and a renowned food scene
Travel Guide: New Orleans
New Orleans is a vibrant city where French, Spanish, African, and Caribbean influences blend into a unique culture celebrated for its jazz, cuisine, and the spirited energy of Bourbon Street and Mardi Gras, pulsing with history, resilience, and joy
Travel Guide: Istanbul
Istanbul is a vibrant city where East meets West, blending rich history with modern energy along the banks of the Bosphorus.
Travel Guide: Tokyo, Kyoto & Osaka
From the tranquil temples of Kyoto to the bustling streets of Tokyo, Japan captivates visitors with its rich culture, natural beauty, and incredible cuisine.
Travel Guide: Washington DC, Delaware and Maryland
Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Delaware offer a rich mix of history, culture, and coastal beauty, from iconic monuments and museums to charming harbor towns and scenic beaches
Travel Guide: Wyoming
Wyoming is a land of wide-open beauty, home to Yellowstone, Grand Teton, and endless outdoor adventure.
Travel Guide: Alberta, Canada
Alberta, Canada, boasts breathtaking Rocky Mountain landscapes, stunning national parks and of course - dinosaurs
Travel Guide: Greece
Greece is a country rich in ancient history and stunning landscapes, from the iconic ruins of Athens to the sun-soaked islands of the Aegean Sea.
Travel Guide: Switzerland
Switzerland is a land of breathtaking alpine landscapes, medieval towns, and a unique blend of European cultures
Travel Guide: Texas
Texas, the second-largest U.S. state, boasts vast landscapes—from deserts and pine forests to Gulf Coast beaches—and a rich blend of cowboy heritage, vibrant cities, and world-renowned barbecue
Travel Guide: Amsterdam & Rotterdam
The Netherlands is a captivating blend of historic charm and modern innovation, known for its picturesque canals, vibrant cities, and progressive culture.
Travel Guide: Dubai & Maldives
Dubai’s ultra-modern opulence and the Maldives’ serene tropical beauty unite to offer the ultimate luxury escape, blending vibrant city experiences with tranquil island relaxation.
Travel Guide: Napa & Sonoma Valley
Napa and Sonoma Valleys are celebrated wine regions offering stunning landscapes, world-class wineries, and delicious culinary experiences
Travel Guide: Tahiti, Moorea & Bora Bora
On the islands of French Polynesia, volcanic peaks meet crystal-clear lagoons, overwater bungalows, and vibrant Polynesian culture
Travel Guide: Colorado
Colorado provides a refined retreat where majestic mountain vistas, world-class skiing, and serene hot springs combine with a vibrant culinary scene to create the ultimate luxury escape
Travel Guide: San Francisco & Northern California
Northern California is a captivating blend of breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and vibrant cultural diversity, offering something for every traveler
Travel Guide: Copenhagen, Denmark
My time in Copenhagen was a journey through a vibrant blend of old-world charm, beautiful architecture and delicious cuisine.
Travel Guide: Berlin
Berlin is a city of contrasts, where history—from the Berlin Wall to World War II—intersects with cutting-edge art, vibrant nightlife, and a modern energy that propels it into the future
Travel Guide: Mexico
Tulum’s restaurants and Cancun’s vibrant resorts come together to offer an exquisite escape, seamlessly combining serene jungle tranquility by turquoise waters
Travel Guide: Toronto
Toronto is a vibrant, multicultural city with an iconic skyline, diverse neighborhoods, world-class museums, delicious international cuisine, and a thriving arts scene
Travel Guide: New York City
New York City is a dynamic, iconic metropolis known for its skyscrapers, cultural diversity, and vibrant energy, blending historic landmarks with a modern, global appeal.
Travel Guide: Italy and Sicily
Italy is a land of rich history, art, and cuisine, with cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice showcasing ancient ruins, Renaissance masterpieces, and romantic canals.
Travel Guide: Hudson Valley, the Adirondacks & Upstate New York
With its farm-to-table dining, local wineries, and outdoor adventures, exploring Upstate New York offers a refreshing change of pace from NYC
Travel Guide: San Diego
San Diego’s stunning coastal views, breweries and great dining options create the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure
Travel Guide: Mammoth Lakes
Mammoth Mountain offers incredible snowboarding, stunning alpine scenery, and year-round outdoor adventure
Hotels & Unique Stays
Kimpton Alton Fisherman’s Wharf
The Kimpton Alton Hotel at Fisherman’s Wharf offers modern comfort, acclaimed dining, and easy access to San Francisco’s Fisherman’s Wharf
AutoCamp Sonoma
AutoCamp Sonoma combines modern luxury and outdoor charm, offering upscale Airstreams and tents near Sonoma’s top wineries
Group Tours & Planned Itineraries
A Day Trip to Sintra, Portugal and Palace of Pena
When in Lisbon, one of the easiest and most fun day trips you can take is an easy 40 min train ride to Sintra, Portugal
Private Walking Tour of the Old Town of Kotor, Montenegro
Booking a private walking tour of the Old Town of Kotor, Montenegro was the perfect way to learn about the region before settling into a week long yoga retreat in Buljarica
From Tokyo: Guided Day Trip to Hakone, Owakudani & Mt. Fuji
Booking my day tour of Hakone, Owakudani & Mt. Fuji was a wonderful introduction and immersion to the landscape, culture and regional food of Japan
Bruges and Ghent – Belgium’s Fairytale Cities by Brussels City Tours
Touring Bruges and Ghent with Brussels City Tours was an overall delightful experience in exploring historic areas of Belgium
Chichen Itza and Xei-Ha Tulum Tour by Xcaret
Visiting Chichen Itza and spending time at Xei-Ha in Tulum was a great way to spend the day in Cancun, Mexico
Cathedrals, Markets and History: A Walking Food and Culture Tour of Palermo, Italy
Guiding my tour group through the streets of Palermo, Domenico was a skillful guide in showcasing the best of what Sicily's capital city had to offer
Rotterdam, Delft, The Hague and Madurodam Tour by Tours and Tickets
Booking the Rotterdam, Delft, The Hague and Madurodam Tour by Tours and Tickets was a delightful way to see a different view of The Netherlands
A Sensational Tour of Sicily with Kimberly Larkin and James Bene
Spending a week in Sicily during the "Sensational Sicily - Yoga, Culture + Self Discovery in Italy" retreat with Kimberly Larkin and James Bene was an extraordinary experience in balancing rest, yoga and adventure
Undiscovered Lisbon Food & Wine Tour with Eating Europe Lisbon
Booking this Eating Europe Lisbon tour, my intention was to walk the city streets and enjoy bites of local cuisine. What I got was that - and more.
Evening Guided Walking Tour of the Gion District in Kyoto, Japan
This evening walking tour of the Gion District in Kyoto, Japan was definitely a unique experience in managing tour expectations
Agrigento, Italy: A Walking Tour of Ancient Sites Amidst a Rainstorm
Our walking tour of Agrigento with our tour guide, Luigi, showcased a cornucopia of ancient cathedrals and a vintage theater while sidestepping raindrops
Twilight Trastevere Rome Food Tour with Eating Europe Rome
Taking the Twilight Trastevere Rome Food Tour by Eating Europe Rome during my first night in Rome was a brilliant idea
A Walking Tour of the Cherry Blossoms of Washington DC
A walking tour of the cherry blossom along the National Mall was the perfect way to capture the emerging beauty of spring, in Washington DC
An Afternoon Trip to Florence, in the Tuscany Region of Italy
Taking an afternoon trip to Florence was a fantastic way to revisit one of my favorite regions in Italy
Evening Desert Safari in Dubai with Arabian Adventures Experience
Experiencing the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve with Arabian Adventures was a buffet of adventure in the Dubai desert
Berlin: 1-Hour City Tour by Boat by Get Your Guide
Taking the "Berlin: 1-Hour City Tour by Boat" by Get Your Guide was the perfect introduction to the sights of Berlin, Germany while cruising the Spree River
Cefalu, Italy: An Afternoon Stroll on the Northern Coast of Sicily
Walking the cobblestone streets of Cefalu, I felt mesmerized by ancient structures meeting modern times
West Highlands, Lochs & Castles Tour by Rabbie’s Tours
"The West Highlands, Lochs & Castles" tour was the perfect way to comfortably see the nooks, crannies and backroads of Scotland in a day
An Afternoon in Taormina: Basking in the Sunshine of the Western Coast of Sicily
My afternoon in Taormina served up luxurious White Lotus vibes in the beautiful coastal resort town in Sicily
Dive Into The Depth Of Your Being: Montenegro Yoga Retreat
The "Dive Into The Depth Of Your Being: Montenegro Yoga Retreat" by Kineesi Yoga at Mahakala Retreat Center in Montenegro was an experience in open mindedness, patience and self discovery.
Berlin: Highlights of Berlin Walking Tour by Insider Tours with Get Your Guide
Insider Tours Berlin's "Berlin: Highlights of Berlin Walking Tour" from Get Your Guide, was one of the best, most comprehensive tours I've ever experienced
Historical Walking Tour of Brussels, Belgium with Chocolate and Waffle Tastings
The "Historical Walking Tour with Chocolate and Waffle Tastings" Tour I booked as an introduction to Brussels, Belgium was a wonderful way to see the best of the city - in under 3 hours.
Amsterdam: Zaanse Schans, Volendam, and Marken Day Trip by Tours & Tickets
The "Amsterdam: Zaanse Schans, Volendam, and Marken Day Trip" by Tours & Tickets was a light yet comprehensive tour of the Dutch countryside, while highlighting traditional points of the Dutch culture
Venice: Highlights Tour, St. Mark’s Basilica & Doge’s Palace by Walks In Europe
The walking tour "Venice: Highlights Tour, St. Mark's Basilica & Doge's Palace" by Walks In Europe was a comprehensive dive into Venice's vibrant history
Istanbul: Asia Side Highlights in a Day
Booking a planned tour of Istanbul through Airbnb allowed me to explore the Asia side of Istanbul in a challenging yet rewarding way
Evening Food Tour with Fork & Walk Tours Berlin
Unfortunately, this Evening Food Tour with Fork & Walk Tours Berlin focused on Turkish food - not the expected German fare.
Vespa Tour of Rome: The Grand Tour with Bici & Baci Tours
Taking a Vespa tour of Rome, Italy with Bici & Baci Tours was the best way to see Rome in a refreshing new light
Venice: Walking Tour & Gondola Ride by Venice City Tours
Exploring highlights with "Venice: Walking Tour & Gondola Ride" group tour by Venice City Tours was a great introduction to the city
Leeds Castle, Canterbury Cathedral & Dover Tour by Evan Evans
The Leeds Castle, Canterbury Cathedral & Dover Tour by Evan Evans offered me a comprehensive and intellectually stimulating day outside of London.
More Reviews and Experiences
EclecticKim is made with by Kimberly Kirven.
EclecticKim is an online resource created and curated to provide restaurant reviews, travel guides, inspiration and reflections on a life well lived.
© Copyright 2015 – 2025 by Kimberly Kirven – All rights reserved.
EclecticKim is an online resource created and curated to provide restaurant reviews, travel guides, inspiration and reflections on a life well lived.
© Copyright 2015 – 2025 by Kimberly Kirven – All rights reserved.