Luna Explores Europe
My Favorite Restaurants in Europe
I'm Luna, and a few years ago I began exploring Europe with my wonderful boyfriend. I’m eager to share my adventures, tips, and more with fellow travelers. So far, I've embarked on 9 trips and visited 14 countries.
My partner and I have made it a bit of a sport to hunt down the best restaurants whenever we travel.
We're not chasing Michelin stars - we're after places with character.
The kind of spots that serve local cuisine, tell a story, and sometimes just happen to be the first ones we stumble upon.
One thing I love abroad is how many restaurants display their menus outside on a stand. It's super practical - you get an instant feel for what's on offer. But here's my golden rule: if I see a mix of Italian, sushi, and burgers all on one menu? That's a red flag. Mention 'traditional' cuisine, though, and you've already got my attention.
And let's be honest, a little research always helps. I won't lie - ChatGPT has been our secret weapon on many trips, helping us uncover authentic local food gems.
So here it is: my 5 favorite restaurants (so far)!
Grand Café de Rooden Hoed, Antwerp
We're big eaters, so naturally, we both go for the largest portion available - and every single time, it's a treat. I know some people just go for the mussels and skip the broth, but let me tell you: the broth is amazing. Don't let it go to waste!
Pro tip:
The best time to eat mussels is during the cooler months - roughly from September to April - when they're at their plumpest and most flavorful. That's when you get the real melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Restaurant Le Dézaley, Zürich
One of my favorite restaurants in Switzerland has to be Restaurant Le Dézaley in Zürich. We dove headfirst into a bubbling pot of truffle-infused cheese fondue - no frills, just perfectly chewy bread to dip. The rich aroma of melted cheese filled the cellar-like dining room, where even the walls looked like they were carved from aged Gruyère. It was a true Swiss essential.
Fun Fact:
Did you know that in traditional Swiss fondue etiquette, if you lose your bread in the pot you're expected to buy the next round of drinks? In the Netherlands they expect you to do the dishes.
Tosca Cafe, Verona
At Tosca Cafe in Verona, it wasn't just the food that earned it a spot among my favorite restaurants - it was the warmth of the host. We had risotto made with Amarone wine, silky fettuccini, and the most unforgettable pistachio tiramisu. The sommelier recommended a beautiful red wine that matched our meal perfectly. Since we arrived early (unlike the locals who dine late), we had the whole place to ourselves, soaking up stories and laughter.
Fun Fact:
Verona's cuisine is deeply rooted in slow-cooked dishes and rich wines, with Amarone risotto being a true local delicacy born from the surrounding Valpolicella vineyards.
Katpedele, Klaipéda
Katpedele in Klaipéda easily makes the list of my favorite restaurants. Set on a boat deck draped in fairy lights, the atmosphere was pure magic. Though their tasting menu is usually for four or more, we convinced our waiter to serve it just for the two of us - and wow, was it worth it. From roasted meats to hearty potatoes and perfectly prepared vegetables, each bite surprised us. We capped it off with a bowl of refreshing šaltibarščiai, Lithuania's iconic cold beet soup.
Fun Fact:
Lithuanians traditionally eat šaltibarščiai in the summer for its cooling effect - and it's often paired with hot boiled potatoes for contrast.
Restaurant Beska, Prizren
Restaurant Beska in Prizren, Kosovo, turned an unplanned lunch stop into one of my favorite restaurant experiences. A heaping plate of mixed grilled meats, stuffed peppers, local wine, and a flaky savory crepe-like dish - all shared between new friends - made it unforgettable. It was a heavy lunch, sure, but the flavors were irresistible. And the price? Shockingly low. For four generous meals and drinks, we paid only 45 euros total.
