Maeve

Cayman Islands

This is where a lot of the locals get their fish fry. In my opinion, it's the best place on island for fish fry. They also have tables under cabanas on a beach and it's on the quieter side of the island.

My favourite spot on the Island. Not only do they have amazing food but they throw events like live music and parties. It's an amazing cultural and creative hub. They use a lot of local produce, give a lot back to the community and support local creatives.
If you go you should ask for Aris Latham's vegan pie - it's unreal.

It's a local tradition to hop on a boat and go to Rum Point on a Sunday. It can get pretty crazy - everyone anchors at a sandbar plays music and it always ends up being a big party. You can't miss this tradition if you come to Cayman!

They have insane Trinidadian and local food here but my favourite thing to get are the doubles. The best hangover cure is getting takeaway from here.

Little Cayman is the smallest island of the three and though the majority of tourists visit Grand Cayman - Little Cayman is an amazing place to go for a couple of days to recharge. Everything is slow moving here and it's so peaceful. You can rent scooters and explore the island.

A quiet beach named after the fact that it's got little starfish dotted around the shore. You can get there by boat and anchor in the shallows. It's a nice place to chill with friends.

Here you can get local art and amazing produce from local farmers. Also cool place to meet some Caymanians and get some advice on what's going on on the island.

Discover the Cayman Islands with Maeve

Kurtis Wells

Berlin

You tend to bump into people who miss home as much as I miss home, or people looking for a taste of the Caribbean, so it’s not very hard to connect. For me, this is the most authentic Jamaican/Caribbean restaurant, they don’t serve food without it being spicy, and most Germans they like food without spice, which is totally fine. I had a chat with the owner and he told me he doesn't like cooking without spices because you come for the most authentic meal. I’d recommend the oxtail.

It’s an African spot with multiple restaurants and bars, it’s pretty cool you can just hang out for hours, you feel like you’re literally not in Berlin. YAAM is centred around Black people. They curate this vibe where people can come and perform and sell their art, this is one spot where I’ve definitely felt connected to culture.

They make a lot of Caribbean-style drinks and cocktails it’s cool to pop in there if you don’t just want the average cocktail, and you want a rum punch.

The Caribbean Art Collection is an incredible experience. From being greeted with wine by the owners to hearing stories about each piece and its origins, my visit was nothing short of special. Being able to unfold what inspired all the different pieces collected and donated by artists all over the Caribbean really gives perspective on how culture can be exported through art.

In my opinion, Badehaus really highlights a lot of the underground scene surrounding upcoming talent in Berlin. I’ve discovered great acts here. It’s perfect for a spontaneous Saturday night.

Kurtis Wells Top Caribbean Spots in Berlin

Portland

Owner, Ian Williams, offers sneaker-themed coffee + 👟 detail shop ☕️.

🎧 The NW first & only Hip-Hop winery created by Bertony Faustin.

Delicious, authentic west African cuisine cooked by a native west African girl.

They serve authentic Jamaican Cuisine in the heart of Portland. And yes, they cater events!

A contemporary soul food restaurant that provides career development opportunities and is non-profit.

Based in Portland, this pop-up vegan supper club is curated by two Black queer artists, Chef Salimatu Amabebe and artist, Annika Hansteen-Izora. It was founded on the premise to rail and dance against the erasure of Blackness in the food and art worlds.

A mellow Ethiopian spot offering yummy traditional food.

A unique cultural experience where you can come learn how to cook African food or order some for dinner!

Fresh and delicious Haitian and Caribbean meals.

Everything to make you salivate: baby back ribs, brisket, chicken, cajun links, etc…

Private Chef/Caterer providing delicious food all throughout the PDX & Gresham area.

The BEST green juices and smoothies. Literally, the best.

Cannabis dispensary in the heart of Madison South neighbourhood.

Black co-owned florist. Flowers & weddings without rules.

Keeping it sweet and simple. Good coffee, good food.

Owner Anthony Brown and big smile brings unique food is unique in his bright blue cart with Southern and Mexican inspired fusion of just plain ol” deliciousness.

Home of custom cakes & elaborate cupcakes, cookies... you name it.

BuzzFeed Tasty's Top 50 wings in the USA!

Southern-style cuisine fused with their Oregon roots.

A fun and tasty twist on your average healthy snacks. Perfect snacks for kids.

A soul food cart serving heart-warming dishes.

This publishing company all started with a book written by co-founder and CEO, Jelani Memory. As a black father with a blended family, racism was an inevitable topic of conversation. The increasingly popularity of this book developed into creating more books about complex topics such as feminism, cancer, gratitude, belonging and much more.

Their work and activism includes direct community education workshops, supporting the outreach of their continued advocacy as first respondents, and helping community members contribute through direct engagement and legislative value. They are focused on shifting cultural and systemic discrimination.

An amazing initiative which tracks the progress of the federal, state and local legislation which addresses police violence.

Founded by Cameron Whitten, a local Portlander, who has more than five years of experience in non-profit leadership and donation accountability. Cameron has served as the Executive Director of local nonprofits such as Know Your City, Brown Hope, and Q Center.

Black-Owned Businesses in Portland

Abornmal Sleepz

Manchester

This is where the studio is, however from time to time they have art exhibitions and stuff. Besides me there's a community of studios and musicians/bands. If you're into music don't be a stranger!

Right in the heart of where I've grown up. Beautiful park that's been renovated. Great day out when the weather's nice. Manchester Carnival takes place here in Summer time too

You will find everything here from bars, nights out, quirky restaurants and vintage shops. It's worth exploring on a visit to Manchester.

This is a really cool club spot open in the day. Perfect balance of a good night out. Whether you're smart casual or all out dressed up all are welcome. They have ping pong tables and beer pong. I DJ here sometimes and is the main place I go out to.

When I was growing up I loved the arcades here. You can do shopping here as an alternative to Town/Arndale centre. If you got kids or are a kid take them to the arcade in the food court.

Go for a chicken split - it wont taste the same anywhere else you go I guarantee!

This is a legendary food spot. You'll find your favourite artists here at crazy hours of the morning. This is on the curry mile and a must go

Abnormal Sleepz' Best Spots in Manchester

Varnrable

Addis Ababa

A place for organic homemade Ethiopian food and tella, a traditional brew. Tella is brewed in households, usually in the rural areas, and consumed on a daily basis. But tella's legitimate status has been fading away, losing its place to mass produced beer and imported liquor. In Selo everything is homemade, from the injera to the tella. Ingredients are collected from local communities, creating an authentic and sustainable culture around Selo. The energy is inclusive and warm, the food is fresh and tasty, and there is a variation of tellas to try out!

Shifta offers a wide range of delicious Caribbean, vegan and African food. The food I had there was super tasty! It's vibrant and filled with local creatives. A great place to eat, drink and hang out all night, having good conversations or just listening to the music. 

Fendika Cultural Center is the perfect place to take in traditional music, and at the same time enjoy traditional food and drinks in a chilled environment. There are performances every week and the place is filled with soul and good energy. Everything is traditional and relevant. I went there to soak up some local jazz one night and that was a beautiful trip.

This is a club concept, making electronic parties at different locations and with differenct DJs. They are reimagining rave culture in the modern day Addis Ababa. These parties are some of the highlights in the club scene and are happening once a month. 

A traditional restaurant in Addis Ababa where you can experience cultural performances while you eat local food. From around 7.30pm there are musicians, dancers and singers performing traditional acts from different tribes around Ethiopia, while wearing outfits from the different regions. All your senses are being stimulated while being in a beautifully decorated room with traditional design and art. 

The perfect way to get out of the city, and it is only a short car ride away from the centrum. There is a great view over the city and you're able to take a walk in nature. The park itself is how we know most parks to be, but if you wander more up, in the mountain, there are small villages; more raw and beautiful nature. 

An institute of Ethio jazz in its historical location, owned by the legendary Mulatu Astatke. This place features some of the best jazz musicians live in raw sessions. 

Explore Addis Ababa's Cultural Scene with Varnrable

Hawai'i

Owner and head instructor, Dharma Shay, opened the gym which specialises in functional fitness, athletic training, personal training, nutrition guidance, HIIT, post-natal exercise classes, youth athletic training, strength and conditioning, Olympic lifting, jiu-jitsu, and stand up martial arts. This is a great gym on the big island with highly trained and professional staff.

Owners, Randy and Gabby, opened their locally-sourced restaurant on the Big Island in 2011. They have delicious options such as blackened ono sandwiches, their Da Aina burger with a fantastic avocado cream sauce, lilikoi cheesecake or their tropical dreams ice cream. They also have an online shop selling their signature Kona Ketchup, Hawaiian Fire Sauce, and Mauka Mustard at great prices. Vegan friendly!

A beautiful studio in Kailua Kona that offers vinyasa, power, yin, restorative, and meditation classes.

A family-operated hearty, healthy, soul restaurant serving delicious, organic food in the heart of Lihue. The menu consists of Kauai-grown traditional soul food staples such as collard greens, candied yams, fried fish, and fresh baked cornbread.

Opened by two best friends, Chase and Mercedes, Pau Hana offers a high-quality mobile bar service for any event, celebration or reason to have a great time with delicious drinks in hand without having to worry about your guests desires.

After receiving her cosmetology license in 2009 from Western Beauty Institute in Van Nuys, California Raquel with her Los Angeles-native hustle and island girl heart is living out her dreams in Maui. In 2017, Raquel became a Curl Coach Educator for DevaCurl. While curly hair is a passion of Raquel's she also loves to style, colour, and cut all hair types. She has an online shop carrying various hair products as well.

A wonderful artist who tattoos around Maui and Kauai Island. He specialises in black and grey, Polynesian tribal, and ornamental work.

Qiana, a native New Yorker, from Red Hook, Brooklyn and her husband from Southern Italy opened Sale Pepe - Maui’s authentic Italian restaurant. Their pastas and artisan Italian pizzas are crafted by a certified pizzaiola with fresh, local ingredients in classic and creative presentations. Paired with the enjoyment of a fun, social wine bar atmosphere you cant find anywhere else on the island.

They are open for business.

This teahouse has multiple locations across Oahu inside various Sand People and Down To Earth retail stores. Founded in 2015, Kye Teahouse was established on the foundation of Going Back to Nature. Their ingredients are grown in Hawaii & picked only at the peak of freshness. It's one of the reasons why their tea taste so incredible. All of the packing and shipping materials are biodegradable & environmentally sustainable.

Chef, Lamont Brown, showcases locally-sourced ingredients on a worldly platform, with emphasis on Spanish and Mediterranean cuisine. Visit their restaurant in Haleiwa for the perfect date night, or a great time with friend.

Owner, Soufiane Bouharkat, grew up in Paris and opened his first cafe there. Later moving to Oahu, he opened Le Crepe Cafe in 2009. He creates a bright and enthusiastic Ohana environment for everyone to experience and strives daily to provide his guests with fresh, natural ingredients that not only taste good, but makes you feel great as well.

Locally-owned scuba diving company located in Honolulu, Hawaii. Manny will take you on incredible diving adventures and leave with an experience you'll never forget! Check out his website for a list of activities and price.

Husband and wife team, the Bensons, whose roots are from Louisiana, were inspired by the Hawaiian Islands, which they decided to make Oahu home and open a mouth-watering deli.

Hawaii finally has their very first co-working space! Located on Oahu and birthed from the idea of creating a community of creators and dreamers, BoxJelly strives to cultivate an inspiring workplace that embodies the worth of a well-lived in home.

A food Truck that specializes in Jamaican cuisine. The truck was inspired by a great friend of owner, Damon, that taught him how to cook Jamaican food. He passed away about thirteen years ago and he's been sharing his food with friends and family for years. He actually started the business in December 2019 with a food cart only selling chicken and shrimp plates. In June of 2020, he obtained the food truck, expanded his menu to brown stew chicken and curry chicken. They also do a jerk pork belly, sandwiches and tacos with the Caribbean flare.

Black-Owned Businesses in Hawai'i

Izzy Bossy

Jamaica

Winifred beach has to be my favourite beach its one of the last beaches which hasn’t been bought by foreigners a hub for the community to come and cool af, if you go you must go up to Cynthia’s and get some food just ask for her down on the beach!

Blue lagoon holds a special place in my heart one of my favourite place to swim its hot and cold under and has a magic in the air, if you go down make sure to get a raft trip ask for Beena with the bleached hair and go over to monkey island.

Obviously, I had to put some music-related tings. If you know me you know how much DANCEHALL IS MI EVERYTHING and the best way to keep up with the new music is to get a CD from Junior on William Street.

Boston is the home of jerk. You can’t come to Jamaica and not try it. There are a few amazing places, but you must go to its home, Boston. Go to Mickey's - the first place on the left (if you are facing it). I also always get a chicken sausage from Bumpy as well; you will see him, he is right across.

Corey makes the best fruit smoothies in Port Antonio. He also makes peanut punch with almond milk which is quite rare here, but it’s super yummy. He is based in the back of the fruit market just walk through the shop to the back left corner and you will see him.

This is by far my favourite date night spot. The owner, Vanessa, is one of my good friends and cooks the most delicious food. Get the lobster! Actually, get anything its all amazing !! Also located on Long Bay Beach - you HAVE to go!

Have you ever had a burger with plantain and callaloo? Well then, you must go to Woody's in Drapers. Their burgers are literally so unique tasting and delicious.

If you are going to Rio Grande make sure you head out early as its a full day of rafting. I always drive up and start from Berrydale. You can stop the raft and swim in the river. Also, half way up if you call in advance, you can stop for food at Belinda. She is not there all the time, so you must organise in advance, but I promise you you won’t regret it!

Sanko Bay is a tiny local beach. There isn’t sand, but you can swim and the view is so beautiful. We are currently trying to re-build the community centre situated on this beach to support and give the Drapers community a hub for the locals. We’re also giving free workshops and equipment for our future generation to be able to bloom.

Everyone always talks about Dunn River, but there are so many hidden gems. Reach Falls is much quieter and you can walk down the back of the waterfall where there are holes you can jump through (this will make more sense when you reach). It’s way more chilled and private; take some snacks, drinks & lots of mosquito repellent with you in your bag.

IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR SOME VIBEZ YOU MUST GO TO MANNAS. You can also pre-order food for small and big groups. Hit up Jason. This is also a must-go!

Coconut shrimp curry to die for. Great for any celebration or just a lovely dinner. Make sore you ask the owner to tell you his story and why he set up soldier camp.

Explore Portland, Jamaica, with Izzy Bossy

Ethiopian Records 

Order the ye tsom firfir (fasting firfir). It is the best thing and come with friends, you won't be able to finish it on your own.

Their green juice is my personal favourite and the place is filled with artwork, most of it made by ZELALEM MERGA and Tesfahun Kebru.

Come early if you want to get those precious seats inside so you can experience the live music up close.

Anytime you want somewhere that has fresh air, greener around Mexico/ Mekenissa Zoma Musuem is the place, take a book and take time for yourself. Also take your time to explore the entire space.

Found next to Washa Mikael Rock Hewn Church. A walk up the hill with a nice view. Go during the day.

Found in the neighbourhood of Goma Kuteba and in front of the Ministry of Health. Take your time exploring the space.

Inside or out, the national theatre is filled with history.

My current neighbourhood, Kazanchis, where Fendika is situated. Sundays are the best days to work around anywhere in Addis.

I like barber shops, even though I haven't cut my hair in more than 10 years and I only go there for a trim or for my beard, because like anywhere else in the world, the barber shop conversations are lively. I used to go at least twice a month to another called Finfine Hotel Barber’s with my dad, I have very fond memories of that place.

Addis Ababa with Ethiopian Records 

Florentino

Cafe Sanjuan in Stockport is just 10 minutes on the train from Manchester's city centre. It’s the only Colombian spot in Manchester run by a lovely family and the food is as authentic as it gets. While it’s also an important hub for the Colombian community in the area, they are super welcoming of anyone wanting to try something new. Their weekend specials are something to behold.

Growing up in Manchester I've seen a drastic change in the city centre. As gentrification continues in and around the area, finding a down-to-earth spot to have a drink and snack without getting your head blown off by generic Top 40 music surrounded by hoards of yuppies has become next to impossible. Peste feels like a sanctuary away from that, you can browse records, books and cassettes while having a bevy or a hot chocolate – and it's peaceful. When it’s busy, it’s always good people too. Definitely recommend it for pre-drinks, or if you’re in Sunday chill mode, this place is the one. They invite local favourites to play on the weekend too.

Pho No. 1, just opposite the main post office depot, lies on a road with a number of different Vietnamese spots. All of them have their own particular charm and great food, but I find the people running Pho No. 1 to be lovely people. Not only are all their mains to die for but one of the ladies in there has started to organise raves. I love to go in, get a spicy vermicelli noodle soup and get a little update on how it's all going.

Kabana is a Sunday classic. I was introduced to this spot of Joey B's and Samrai's (basically if DJs had club music parents, these guys are that to me) and I’ve never looked back. It’s a legendary spot. The nehari on Sunday is to die for.

The raspberry Danish is amazing. Its got very popular so you have to queue up but it is worth it.

Maybe one of the only true 24-hour spots in Manchester. This place is super important to workers working throughout the night and has been running since 1999. A classic after-the-club spot but also, the food's great, it’s worth going anytime.

Chicken Run in Moss Side makes these chicken splits that are to die for. Going down in the summer, ordering one and then walking down to Alexandra Park is something I’ve really enjoyed in recent years.

Pho Cue holds a special place in my heart. Not only is the name very tongue-in-cheek but the food is also ridiculously good. Located in Chinatown, what it does best is serve up exciting takes on Vietnamese dishes. Everything on the menu is incredible. Definitely worth the trip.

Where to Eat and Drink in Manchester According to Florentino

Amsterdam

Black-owned vegan food spot in Amsterdam southeast with flavourful Surinamese dishes. The bowls are bomb and the vegan pom is a must-try!

A family-run vegan restaurant fusing Jamaican and Caribbean dishes with Japanese dishes. I love their Jamaican plate with plantains and the owners are too sweet!

Newly open at one of my favourite clubs in Amsterdam, Garage Noord. Authentic Sichuan food with fab cocktails and a terrace as well. The club opens at midnight so you can burn the calories off with a dance!

Also known as 'the queen of johnnycakes', which are Caribbean snacks. You can find her stand in multiple locations in southeast Amsterdam. Tip: they also do vegan johnnycakes with different fillings!

Authentic Ethiopian restaurant. Great for sharing meals, especially the injera with all toppings. They also have great fruit-flavoured beers and coffee.

Ghanaian restaurant in Amsterdam southeast. You can’t go wrong with the jollof, plantains or kelewele. African restaurants are very rare in Amsterdam so I’m always looking forward to supporting any new spot.

Non-profit art space with great exhibitions and curation focusing on queer and Afro-diasporic communities.

A Black-owned event space in southeast Amsterdam facilitating its direct community by hosting small parties, panels and ballroom functions. We love to see it!

Being a part of the ballroom community, I notice how hard it is to have access to spaces to practice or get together. Cultural centre Nowhere has facilitated its space to the community for many years. There are classes every week from members of the Dutch ballroom scene as well as organised get-togethers by The Living Room.

Arakaza on Where to Go in Amsterdam During Dekmantel Festival

MMH Radio

Copenhagen

There’s no Caribbean food in Copenhagen, when I moved here I couldn’t find any good jerk seasoning but my boy does a thing called Yam CPH once a month like a pop up, which is definitely a spot to check out if you’re here at the right time. It’s in different places but you can follow them on Instagram. It's also like on the high end of Caribbean food – shout out to Kye!

Speakers Korner on blågårdsgade Nørrebro.

Owned by DJ bistand who has a monthly show on MMHRADIO. Bass music. Drum n bass, Jungle, Dub, Roots, Rave etc.

Nu jazz, Beats, soul. In a basement on stefansgade nørrebro. Small store where you can find prints and books as well. Nee and old stuff. Records from local danish artist who produce jazz and beats music.

Located different spots in central Copenahagen and Vesterbro. Second hand clothing fleamarket. At fleamarkets you can always try and discuss the price the seller gives you. Private sellers by stands and sell their clothing.

Fleamarket on Vesterbro Sønderboulevarden.

In the middle of Sønderboulevarden. In the summer there is a long Fleamarket stretching through the street. Clothes and things. On Sundays and sometimes Saturdays. On the same street you can go to Kihoskh and get a coffee or Itzi Bitzi for the best lunch pizza. Super nice street to hang out on when the sun is out.

It’s hiding in plain sight, in the centre opposite Tivoli in between 2 huge Irish pubs. It's basically just a black door, at night theres a bouncer but it's just straight up techno until 8am. They're doing this safe space, so there absolutely no discrimination allowed. If anything happens you can tell the bouncer. You also get this sticker on your phone so you’re not allowed to take any pictures. They want it to be a safe space where people can dress how ever they like and do whatever they like.

Every first Friday of the month MMH host a residence only night. All the resident DJs on our rota get a chance to go through and play. We pair them up all randomly and put people of different genres together. It's always a really good turn out. It's always fun. It’s a good place if you're not from here to meet people. Its here in the meat packing district.

They have really good nights and book good DJs! They’re pro LGBTQ, and one of the first bars to be really open and supportive, they always have the flag out. In the meat packing district as well! 

MMH Radio's Guide to Copenhagen

M1llionz

Birmingham

Domdines is my favourite Jamaican breakfast spot in the city. Ask for a lady named Verla!

Bings is the best yard food shop in the UK! I recommend the Stew Chicken

I used to play football there when I was younger. If you play football and you’re from Birmingham, then you’ve definitely played there.

If you’re single in the Summer, you won’t be disappointed!

M1llionz Takes us on a Tour of Birmingham

cktrl

London

Best fried dumplings in south. Healthiest juices available too (Apple juice and moringa)

Best jerk chicken and rice & peas in south, fight me. Always hits different.

Chef can make anything happen with jackfruit.

Health is wealth here, all your ital plant based dietary needs are met. Menu changes daily too.

Spelt flour fried dumplings actually go hard.. when there’s any left.

West Indian Spots in Southeast London With cktrl

Benji B

If I could move in here and (afford to) eat lunch and dinner every day I would. Italian-based food with locally sourced ingredients in a great setting - tastefully done and a special night out but not overly fancy. If it's nice weather sit in the small garden. Food is absolutely banging. I’ve always liked this neighbourhood too.
Who to ask for: Johnny
What to order: Everything on the menu.

One of my favourite local West Indian spots in North London.
What to order: fish stew or curry chicken w/ rice and peas & a veg pattie 
Who to ask for: Don’t ask for anyone, just get in line. Talking of which, if you are in a rush and it's lunchtime this ain't the place for you. Just know that all good things come to those who… wait in a long queue.

Sometimes only Ranoush Juice will do. More of a takeaway snack spot than a sit down place, although there are a few tables if you want to eat and go. Sometimes I realise it's on route to somewhere I’m headed and I’ll divert to make a stop, sometimes I’ll just make the trip especially. I go there for one specific item: the Ranoush Juice Shawarma wrap: one is never enough and two is too much.
What to order: Chicken Shawarma wrap and a fresh carrot juice

Just off Shaftesbury Avenue near Chinatown, serving a Middle Eastern menu inspired by Israeli cooking, Southern Spain and North Africa, the food here is fresh and good for lunch or dinner and is made in the open kitchen, right in front of you.
Who to ask for: Well, if you remember Layo and Bushwaka - The DJ duo closely associated with The End Nightclub in London, this is Layo’s place! So you could ask for him, or shake his hand and say good job.
What to order: Fattoush Salad, Persian Lemon Chicken, Tomato Labneh and plenty of Baharat Farmhouse Bread.

Low-key cafe breakfast spot that keeps it simple and gets it right. Breakfast also might be my favourite meal of the day to be honest.
Who to ask for: Elliot.
What to order: Scrambled eggs on 2 toast with parmesan shaving on top, hash browns and a cup of tea (I don’t eat red meat but if you like your bacon and all that theres plenty of that too).

Had to put a Japanese spot in this list and there are loads I could have chosen but I’m going with Dinings because it is top level Japanese food in an understated place. Was originally started by ex-Nobu chefs in 2006. I’ve eaten there from time to time over the years and it has maintained its quality.
What to order: Hamachi Tar Tar Chips, Unagi Nigiri, Miso Aubergine, Black Cod.

Top floor of the Standard in Kings Cross in London. Mexican and Spanish influenced menu. Environment posh but city vibe, feels like you’re in New York, lighting and design on point, definitely good for a night out. With the location being in Kings Cross, it gives a good mix of people -- and views. Food and drinks top level. Definitely not cheap tho.
Who to ask for: Thomas is the boss.
What to order: Cauliflower Tacos, Spanish Tortilla, Day Boot Fish. A Negroni before or an Old Fashioned after, depending on which way round you do it. Bartenders know what they are doing.

Feels like it would be rude not to include this classic. The OG Arcola street Mangal 1. What is there to say other than that I’ve ended up in here more than few times over the years. I respect this place a lot, the environment in the neighbourhood around this place has changed so much but this place has remained. There are undoubtedly loads of amazing Turkish places in London but this place is a classic.
What to order: Cacik, Tavuk Sis or Moussaka.

Classic Italian family run vibe not tryna be a cool spot but with a classic traditional feel. In a way this is the random one on the list - not sure why I like it so much but I do. Has a casual family feel to it, even if it ends up feeling a bit posh because of where it's located (Marylebone) and who goes there. I think I went in by chance once and I ended up going back. Not on the foodie cool list, you might go there and think “huh?” - but I like it for a secret straight up traditional Italian.
What to order: Cacio e Pepe, followed by Sea Bass.

This place been open for years and years but its hard to tell sometimes which nights it opens. Very simple environment - not a “night out” but good if you want a simple home cooking feel. Low key and casual, sometimes with shared tables. 
What to order: Fresh Bread, Banjon Borani, Lavand-e-murgh.

Benji B's Favourite Restaurants in London

Marlou Fernanda

Rotterdam

This is where I used to get my hair products when I had long curly hair.

When we’re in the city, we usually pass by to get a Pastechi.

For two years we’ve made it a habit to order pastechi, cheese balls, sate ku batata and other dishes from Curaçao at this specific place for the holidays, especially for New Year's Eve. I know the owners, and normally they’d do the catering whenever my good friend Junelisa had a party, for example. I’ve been waiting for them to open a restaurant ever since. They have the best Caribbean food in town (for me) no doubt!

I used to go to this café/venue/club where they’d have R&B, funk, soul, salsa and bossa-nova nights. I loved seeing so many people from Brazil coming together in Rotterdam to play beautiful samba music. I’d always go here with my big sister – I really miss those days! We used to meet so many people there and I felt like I was learning more about different cultures and different people.

I’m in their extended family program, and for that reason I’ve been able to go behind the scenes and visit their archives. They had so many crazy items that I’ve never seen before. A lot of slavery related items too. Curaçao and Brazil, of course, were a part of this too. I remember feeling so connected to my heritage and actually became angry at what ‘they’ stole from us.

Marlou Fernanda's Guide To Caribbean Spots In Rotterdam

Riaz Philips

OG Bakery. Hardo bread, patties, spiced bun, bulla cake and more FRESH out the oven.

Well refined and modern take. Head down on Wednesday nights for a Afro-sonic soundscape of live music and sing-a-longs.

West London’s finest with a wall mural of signed celeb customers that deserves to be Grade II listed.

Be prepared to queue out the door at lunchtimes and weekends (for a reason). A daily changing menu of every Jamaican fave.

South London’s roti answer bringing Trinidad to our town with wraps, doubles and indo-trini sweets to send you into a food coma.

North London’s premier roti takeout spot. Meat-eaters and vegans both easily pleased.

Keep it simple. Jerk pork, lamb or chicken or a mix of all. Best jerk in town easily.

Be ready to wait and don't even think about asking the ladies where your food is. Go large mix. Infamous peppered steak and fry fish with sides.

One of the most incredible grocery shops in town, with hand-built rasta coloured shelving. Takeout round the back using their fresh ingredients.

The 10 Best Caribbean Food Spots in London with Riaz Philips

Ghetto Gastro

New York City 

Highbridge is a neighbourhood in the Bronx that's connected to Washington Heights in the Upper Manhattan by way of the pedestrian high bridge. The blending of cultures across this physical landscape is rich and the patties have a nice sweetness and a spicy punch. They also take some time, because you'll need to ferment the plantains for the filling for up to one week, which adds a tangy depth to the flavour.

For $4 or $5, any short-order bodega cook can style it how you like it, but the classic build is ground beef cooked down with white onions and American cheese, then topped with tomatoes and shredded lettuce on a hero or roll. Like a lot of foods that emerge from neighbourhoods and cultures where many are systematically deprived of wealth, the chopped cheese is a blue-collar dish, [with] it's social complexities. As the class makeup of the Bronx and Uptown has shifted to attract the richer, whiter populations in recent years, the chopped cheese found its way into the hands of folks who didn't grow up on it like we did but rather often "discovered" the sandwich, and, naturally, loved it. 

This place opened as Brother Roy's Green Garden in 1983 at a different location (it's always going to be Brother Roy's to us), but the juice bar is a beloved, Black-owned gathering place that promotes health and wellness. For youth used to seeing smoke shops and liquor stores on countless corners, this West Indian spot is where you find like-minded people knowledgeable about nutrition. Brother Roy's is across from an elevated train, facing the New York Housing Authority's Gun Hill Houses. The energy is chaotic on the streets. In the shop it's like an oasis. You smell fresh fruit. You hear patois that reflects Caribbean roots. 

The hood Chinese restaurant is ubiquitous in Black hip hop culture. For decades, references to dishes have appeared in song lyrics; there's even a brown and green Timberland boot that's been dubbed "beef and broccoli". The tan joints are called "sesame chickens". These are not the spots where you look for traditional Cantonese dumplings or classic Sichuan noodles. You're gonna find chicken wings next to egg foo Yung. Chinese sweet tea served in plastic quart containers. Everything comes in a to-go box because even if the spot is large enough for tables and chairs, you're probably not staying long. 

A popular seafood restaurant in City Island, across the street from Johnny's Reef, these restaurants have a serious cult following. 

Ghetto Gastro’s Top 5 Restaurants in New York City 

A long time fav spot for yard (Jamaican) food. You might not think its proper because unlike a lot of other yardie food shops, they often do have what you want and serve it with no bad attitude lol. The jerk wings, festival and fritters are great.

Been playing at and having mad raves in Soup for well over 10 yrs. Swing Ting, a collective I'm part of has had its regular monthly nights there. Its just a cool spot with vibrant nights on and serves food upstairs.

Can't skate for shit but I'm fascinated by it and the garms are fresh. Joe Gavin who used to work there shot my first ever video The Eyes 'Harder' and I've made tunes with Think Tonk who works there. Also, played a few 'pop up' Street raves outside the shop with Levelz and its always a vibe.

Another great venue with loads of sweaty drunken memories. Estate Records used to do Ballin On A Budget there.

My bredrin just took over this spot, formerly Kim's by the Sea, and its a proper slice of Manchester. Foods great, lots of local community characters/artists/creatives passing through and just a cool warm vibe.

I play a lot of gigs here, mostly Hit&run nights. The gigs vary but I've never had a bad night there.

A lot of these spots I've mentioned are in this area of the city centre. It's filled with a lot of bars, clubs and creative hubs. Pic of a video shoot with Equiknoxx, Swing ting, Tarnish Vision.

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