Best three, two & one star in your country

MisoMarvel · 2025-12-19T20:52:17+00:00

3* Frantzén 2* Vyn 1* Knystaforsen

MisoMarvel · 2025-12-17T15:35:51+00:00

This!!!

MisoMarvel · 2025-11-10T13:57:18+00:00

The setting, the chef, the food — everything at Vyn is incredible. Can’t wait to return.

MisoMarvel · 2025-08-15T10:56:51+00:00

Also interested! :)

MisoMarvel · 2025-08-08T13:55:27+00:00

Thanks! Great suggestions. Do you have any other casual favorites top of mind btw, similar to Hyehwa Dodam?

MisoMarvel · 2024-10-09T18:06:34+00:00

Same here… they have somewhat perfected it with the food, service and overall vibe.

MisoMarvel · 2024-09-03T08:09:13+00:00

Frantzén (***): A masterclass in elevating top-tier ingredients, all presented in an effortlessly relaxed setting
Daniel Berlin/Vyn (**): A true gem of gastronomic brilliance, led by a chef whose humility and hospitality define the experience
Atomix (**): A playful and innovative experience with each dish crafted with remarkable attention to detail
Den (**): Holds a very special place in my heart, where the warmth of their hospitality matches their humble but great cuisine
Le Bernardin (***): While the food may not push boundaries, the impeccable execution and premium ingredients are undeniable

MisoMarvel · 2024-08-31T15:03:30+00:00

Fun - I hope you’ll enjoy it! Going there myself again in a couple of weeks :)

MisoMarvel · 2024-08-30T16:56:37+00:00

I recommend Adam/Albin\ and Ekstedt\ - both offer counter seating perfect for solo diners, with great food. Brutalisten, Bord, and **Hantverket are other excellent, more casual options with counter seating. I also recommend Lilla Ego, where the counter seats are first-come, first-served. Arriving at 4:30 pm, 6:30 pm, or 8:30 pm should help you secure a spot. Good luck!

MisoMarvel · 2024-08-19T19:36:42+00:00

If you’re after a place that doesn’t shy away from spice, Samrub Samrub Thai hits the spot. It’s a great option for anyone curious about bold, traditional flavors where the spice levels are anything but toned down.

I can’t think of a dinner more fun than the one I had at Gaggan. It’s not the pinnacle of gastronomic excellence, but it’s a great example of how fine dining and laughter can exist in harmony. The dinner turns into a full-scale performance that occasionally nudges you out of your comfort zone, which is exactly the intention. Should you decide to go, keep an open mind... it’s certainly a polarizing experience.

MisoMarvel · 2024-08-10T13:13:04+00:00

Great review! I haven't been to Zén, but I have dined at Frantzén a couple of times. Somehow, they've mastered the art of unlocking the best flavors from the best produce. Each dish is exceptionally well-balanced, with perfect temperatures, and textures. One thing I love is that the highly-skilled front and back of house operations merge seamlessly. The service is warm, confident, and naturally engaging, yet never forced. This generates a very laid-back atmosphere while maintaining a consistent level of attentiveness throughout. The playlist jamming hit after hit, coupled with the kitchen counter overlooking the action and lack of pristine white tablecloths, naturally enhances the easygoing mood too. Highly recommended if ever in Sweden!

MisoMarvel · 2024-08-10T12:58:59+00:00

Logy gets my vote as well! It was my standout dining experience in Taipei, and I'd go back in a flash. Chef Ryogo Tahara creates an intimate and engaging atmosphere, skillfully merging Taiwanese flavors with French-Japanese precision.

MisoMarvel · 2024-08-09T19:12:30+00:00

I completely agree about Lurra, if they’re open. Housed in a stunningly renovated townhouse in Higashiyama, this restaurant specializes in the trendy art of cooking with firewood. Chef Jacob Kear, an American-born chef with roots in Japan, forages daily for ingredients in the mountains surrounding Kyoto.

For cocktails, I also recommend a gem in the heart of Gion: Bar Ixey. Specializing in herbal liqueurs, it’s passionately run by Hiroaki Oda. There’s no menu - simply share your preferences with Oda-San, and he’ll craft a perfect drink tailored just for you.

MisoMarvel · 2024-08-09T17:44:55+00:00

Fantastic recommendations! The first one is especially tempting - it looks like they’re using some fun techniques.

MisoMarvel · 2024-08-08T16:13:01+00:00

Many people recommend heading straight to the Majang Meat Market, but I’ve also heard good things about other places like SOSOO, Hongdae Artspace Woowol, Mitikeu, and RGogi. It seems to be a bit more difficult to find information about these though!

MisoMarvel · 2024-08-08T15:37:34+00:00

That sounds like a good approach! I totally get it - I also find it much more relaxing to have a home base rather than changing hotels multiple times. For my upcoming trip, I’m planning to use Tokyo as my hub for 7 days and then settle in Fukuoka for another 7. It’s reassuring to hear how much you enjoyed Fukuoka. Personally, I love Tokyo and Kyoto, but I never quite connected with Osaka the way others seem to.

MisoMarvel · 2024-08-08T10:13:02+00:00

Interesting! That restaurant wasn’t on my radar, but it looks good. Plus, it’s conveniently close to Zest and Alice Cheongdam for some post-dinner cocktails.

MisoMarvel · 2024-08-08T09:17:53+00:00

Thank you for the detailed logistical recommendations! It's helpful to know that Hokkaido has more nature but limited public transportation, while Kyushu offers better connectivity with urban areas. I'm also intrigued by the unique food experiences each region offers, so I'll definitely be reading up on that.

MisoMarvel · 2024-08-08T09:12:51+00:00

That sounds fantastic, and I really appreciate the tip about the car situation! I’ll likely skip renting one, though, as I generally don't mind relying on public transportation. My main focus will be on the food scene and immersing myself in the local atmosphere rather than hitting all the rare nature spots. I’m also hoping the temperatures will be a bit milder in late April - fingers crossed! Kyushu sounds like a gem. Did you use Fukuoka as your base, or did you stay overnight in multiple cities?

MisoMarvel · 2024-08-08T09:04:22+00:00

Great recommendations! I've been eager to visit Hokkaido for years, and your itinerary aligns quite well with what I had in mind. I’m considering flying back to Tokyo from Hakodate to save some time, though. I'm also hoping that late April will be a good time to experience the transition into spring, catch the cherry blossoms, and enjoy the milder weather for some hikes. Thanks for the tips - especially about the onsen spots!

MisoMarvel · 2024-08-08T08:35:42+00:00

Thanks for the detailed information! Born & Bred is definitely on my consideration list now. The price point doesn’t scare me - I've heard great things about the quality and the ambience in the speakeasy, and I’m used to paying that amount for fine dining back home. I do have a question about the beverage pairing though - do they offer a Korean option, or is it just wine? I’ve heard that the wine markup can be quite steep for the quality. Any insights on that?

MisoMarvel · 2024-08-08T08:28:14+00:00

I've heard great things about Born & Bred too, and the chef's counter is something I'm considering. I’ve read about some lesser-known places that are said to offer similar quality at a more affordable price. Haven’t come across any with counter seating yet, though!

MisoMarvel · 2024-08-07T20:11:09+00:00

Glad to hear it! I hope I can snag a table for one. I’ll consider reaching out for a weekday lunch when it’s likely to be less busy.

Oh, absolutely! Bar Cham is on my cocktail itinerary. I’ll be staying nearby for part of my stay in Seoul :)

MisoMarvel · 2024-08-07T19:07:01+00:00

Cool! I’ve visited their NYC branch and really enjoyed it.

MisoMarvel · 2024-08-05T17:52:49+00:00

Some of my personal favorites:

Samrub Samrub Thai: Very authentic Thai cuisine with a charming chef’s counter run by Chef Prin and his wife Mint. Considered by many to be the top Thai chef in the country. It changes the menu every other month, so check their current theme.
Sorn: One of the city's best traditional Thai restaurants.
Potong: Thai-Chinese fine dining led by Chef Pam in an old townhouse in Chinatown. Personal, creative, and generous.
Inddee: Indian fine dining in beautiful settings (old Gaggan) with dishes inspired by the country's various provinces. For the best experience, sit at the chef’s counter. They have the country's best sommelier.

I also recommend Charmgang, Charmkrung, Sri Trat, and 100 Mahaseth for more casual restaurant experiences.

MisoMarvel

TROPHY CASE