Some of you may have noticed that my newsletter has been a little quieter than usual. The truth is, life — and a wonderful adventure — pulled me away for a bit. Rather than rushing to write something quickly, I wanted to return with stories and inspiration worth sharing. Going forward, I’m planning to publish this newsletter on a quarterly basis, allowing me to share thoughtful seasonal recipes, nutrition insights, and a few culinary reflections from the road.
This past winter my lovely wife Arika and I set off on a memorable journey through Europe. Our adventure began in Amsterdam. Although it wasn’t my first time visiting, the city welcomed us in a way that felt entirely new. We arrived early in the morning, and stepping out of Centraal Station we were greeted by a dramatic, awe-inspiring sunrise stretching across the canals. The soft winter light reflected off the water and illuminated the narrow historic buildings in shades of gold and amber. For a few quiet moments the city felt peaceful, as if it was slowly waking up around us. Soon bicycles began gliding across the bridges and cafés opened their doors. On one especially cold afternoon we shared a cone of the famous fries with mayonnaise — hot, crispy, and absolutely perfect in the chilly air.
From there we flew to Nice, picked up a small car, and drove inland to Aix-en-Provence. Aix during the holidays felt magical. The Christmas markets filled the squares with the scent of roasted chestnuts, mulled wine, and fresh pastries. Lights hung across the streets, and the city’s many fountains — always flowing — seemed especially beautiful in the winter glow.
Next came Montpellier where the winding stone streets of the old city and the festive markets created an unforgettable atmosphere. Music drifted through the plazas, people gathered under outdoor heaters at cafés, and the spirit of the holidays seemed to fill every corner.
We spent one night in Toulouse, and the weather turned wet and cold — the perfect setting for one of my favorite meals of the trip, a rich and deeply satisfying cassoulet. That slow-cooked casserole of beans and meats was the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out.
From there we drove to Bordeaux where we dropped off the car and celebrated Christmas. We rented a place with a small kitchen and visited the local market, gathering everything we needed to cook a quiet holiday meal together. Since most restaurants close on Christmas Day, preparing our own meal felt simple and special.
After a few days we boarded a train to Paris. Paris, as always, did not disappoint. From elegant restaurants to cozy cafés and bustling brasseries, every meal seemed to carry its own story.
All in all, it was a fantastic journey. We saw so much in a short amount of time and were reminded how food, travel, and shared experiences nourish the soul. Now that we’ve explored both northern and southern France together, I’m already looking forward to our next culinary adventure — and sharing more of it with you here.
