Boston's South End Neighborhood - Victorian Architecture, Fabulous Restaurants, and Trendy Boutiques

Whether you're visiting Boston for the first or the twentieth time, you'll love exploring Boston's South End neighborhood because of the spectacular architecture, the many gourmet restaurants and nightspots, and the trendy one-of-a-kind boutiques sprinkled along all of the major streets and avenues.  Although the South End is adjacent to popular Back Bay, it's a bit off the usual path of Boston tourists because few major monuments or historical sites are located there.  But if you make the 10-minuted walk from Back Bay across the garden-filled Southwest Corridor Park to the South End, you'll be enchanted by the beauty of this mostly-residential Boston neighborhood.

Most of the housing in Boston's South End was built during the mid-1800s, after land for the area was created by filling a shallow bay.  In fact, the neighborhood has the highest area of Victorian brick row houses in the United States and is listed in the National Register of Historic Places.  If you're an architecture fan, you'll find an amazing array of styles: Renaissance Revival, Greek Revival, Egyptian Revival, Italianate and French Second Empire, Queen Anne, and much more. 

Best of all, most of these gorgeous houses and their elaborate iron rails and other ornamentation have been meticulously restored during the past 30-40 years.  Some areas, such as Columbus Avenue, were originally designed to look like Parisian boulevards, while in other areas, homes cluster around English-inspired parks and lanes.  These designs make possible fabulous gardens, window box plantings, and tree-filled streets.

South of Washington Street, in an area now called "SoWa," you'll find former canneries, piano factories, and other industrial buildings now transformed into artists's studios, galleries, and lofts.  SoWa is where you'll find a number of arts-related activities such as periodic Open Studios, "First Friday" gallery walks, and SoWa Open Market where local and regional artisans exhibit and sell their creations on Sunday afternoons from late spring through fall.

Boston's South End is the city's hippest neighborhood.  You'll find lots of wonderful and innovative chef-owned restaurants, such as B and G Oysters, Aquitaine, and Hamersley's Bistro.  Main streets such as Columbus Avenue, Washington Street, and Tremont Street are where you'll also find lots of trendy boutiques and gourmet markets.

You'll also notice that the neighborhood is very dog-friendly.  Dogs (and their owners) can enjoy the Joe Wex Dog Recreation Space in Peters Park between Shawmut and Washington Streets.  And everyone enjoys one of the highlights of the Halloween season:  the Annual Halloween Pet Parade, featuring dogs decked out in their favorite costume.  As the ghoulish canines parade through the South End up through Boston Common, everyone smiles.

All About Chicago Restaurants

Chicago is a big-time sports town with die hard fans for their Bears, Bulls, Cubs, and the World Champion Chicago White Sox. Even if you don't like baseball, you'll have the time of your life just like Ferris Bueller as you take in a Cubs game at Wrigley. The Windy City does a nice job blending in the new while maintaining its old world charm. Incorporated as a town in 1833, Chicago has grown to be the nation's third-largest city (with a population of more than 3 million), the birthplace of the first skyscraper and one of the few international US cities. Chicago today offers a truly cosmopolitan flare that adds to any visitor's big-city adventure - a beautiful city in the Midwest heartland that radiates a spirit of energy.

With 77 neighborhoods (yes, we did say 77), you can go from one to the next in a split second before you realize you're in a different area with completely new sights and sounds. Having unmistakable character, each of this city's neighborhoods brings a whole new array of shops, restaurants, attractions, historical elements, and intrigue.

Shopping on Michigan Ave. is truly magnificent, so make sure you work that into the plan.

Chicago is also known for its deep dish pizza, so you must try some while in town. Yes, the toppings are buried under the sauce, but trust us...it is fantabulous and worth the 40 minute wait. We like Gino's East and Giordanno's, but as you will see there are many other solid choices.

Whether you want to cozy up in a casual neighborhood bar or don your best black dress for some late night cocktails, Chicago has it all! Here are just some of our journeyPod Picks:

Alinea - With a kitchen filled with the country's top culinary awards, risk-taking super-chef Grant Achatz has upped the ante in Chicago with these avant-garde culinary creations. A progressive American restaurant offering a multi-sensory prix fix degustation menu of 12 or 24 courses, the fare at Alinea causes a certain awe and "wow" by everyone who shares the experience in dining here. The 24 course menu is called the "tour" and is as much a marathon as it is a meal, generally taking nearly four or five hours to finish. Jackets are recommended, jeans not allowed. And remember - at Alinea, you come hungry, and leave... well, with your wallet a lot thinner. Alinea is located at 1723 N. Halsted St. (at Willow St.).

NoMi (Chi - Gold Coast/Streeterville) - Located on the 7th floor of the Park Hyatt Hotel, NoMi serves upscale contemporary French global cuisine with an Asian twist. Boasting stunning views of Michigan Avenue and Lake Michigan, this contemporary restaurant offers indoor and outdoor seating, and an adjoining swanky lounge for after-dinner drinks. The restaurant is also known for its high-end, high-ticket tea offerings that include rare and limited leaves including vintage Pu-erh, reserve and display teas that range from $14 up to $700 a pop. Hint: Tables 30-37 offer the best Magnificent Mile views. NoMI can be found at 800 N. Michigan Ave. (at Chicago Ave.).

mk the restaurant (River North) - Rated by Zagat as the "place to go back to as often as possible" - this contemporary neighborhood favorite attracts an upscale crowd with its consistently delicious new American cuisine - with global influences that focus on the freshest ingredients available. Exposed brick and wood beams prove to be an elegant addition to this two-story space that features a bar, lounge and two dining rooms. For starters, try the lobster soup poured tableside over lobster meat; and for dinner, the seared rare ahi tuna. The desserts don't disappoint either - the "Cake and Shake" - a mini vanilla milkshake served with buttermilk chocolate cake will have you smiling all night long! The restaurant is located at 868 N Franklin St. (at Chestnut St.).

Follia (West Loop) - A chic and icy-cool destination in the gritty Fulton Street warehouse district, Folia is a new Italian restaurant that always buzzing with the hip young crowd and corporate diners. Just about everything on the menu here scores, from the paper-thin prosciutto and mushroom pizza to the risotto Milanese and the taglioni with pesto and meat sauces. All the desserts are made in-house and are worth the calories. For all you chocolate addicts out there - try the chocolate lava cake (even though Follia's most popular is the tiramisu-like cake with amaretto and mascarpone cheese). Just don't be alarmed when you approach the front door of the place - you'll see stylishly dressed mannequins peering back at you. (The restaurant displays art and fashions by local college students that you can purchase, or admire while you wait for a table.) Follia is located at 953 W. Fulton Market (at Morgan St.).

Landmark (Lincoln Park) - Fine dining meets hip and bustling bar/lounge scene at this multi-level space located in the Lincoln Park/Clybourn Corridor. A perfect night spot that draws more than just a crowd of Steppenwolf theater-goers (located just across the street), Landmark boasts multiple kitchens offering its diners innumerable menu options like grilled strip steak and pork chops, or pizza and lobster club sandwiches. Try the signature cocktails at Landmark or old favorites like a Cosmo made with Orange Grey Goose or a Bellini. The place is located at 1633 N. Halsted St.

Sushi Wabi - Voted "Best Sushi in Chicago" by Chicago Tribune readers, Sushi Wabi is the city's original hipster sushi hot spot - its industrial (wood-block and steel tables), its loud, its filled with well-heeled, well-dressed locals who dig the clubby vibe and the DJ-spun music (nightly from 7pm to 11pm) while chowing down on a mean plate of maki. If you need any suggestions, order the: dragon roll, spicy shrimp and tuna rolls, spider roll and the gyu negima--scallions rolled in slices of marinated beef, all of which are the restaurant's specialties. Sushi Wabi is located at 842 W. Randolph St. (at Halsted St.).

TRU (Chi - Gold Coast/Streeterville) - Talk about fine dining! Set in an open, airy loft space that could almost double as an art gallery, TRU marries style, sophistications and substance - offering progressive French cuisine (that's more like playful works of art) and impeccable service. Served on a spectacular array of non-traditional surfaces produced by local and international artists, the décor is offset by the stark white walls adorned by contemporary art pieces (among which you'll see an original Warhol). Food is as delicious here, as it is gorgeous; and specialties include: foie gras with pineapple relish and venison loin with creamed corn. The desserts are dreamy (the restaurant even accepts dessert-only reservations), and include selections like quince ice cream float with sour cherries, house-made lollipops and chocolate pot de-crème. Jackets here are required, as are reservations! The restaurant is located at 676 North Saint Clair St. (at Huron St.).

David Burke's Primehouse (River North) - Located in the River North's James Chicago Hotel, David Burke's Primehouse is a mecca for all meat aficionados. Known for dry-aging steaks on the premises in its own salt cave (a temperature and humidity-controlled room fitted with salt tiles), the restaurant is refined, but not stuffy - attracting a see-and-be-seen crowd. And don't just come for the steaks! Burke's notable dishes, like the spicy "angry lobster" and "Kobe beef sashimi" are delectable. Just make sure you save room for the "cheesecake lollipops"! The James Hotel is located at 616 N. Rush St. (at Ontario St.).

Japonais (River West) - One of the city's trendiest dining destinations. Japonais offers a sensuous scene and Euro-Asian fare that's got foodies and fashionistas in Chi-town buzzing. The dishes and the décor at this 300-seat, industrial-chic space (with 2 dining rooms, a sushi bar and downstairs lounge and patio) is first-class. Japonais boasts four sensuous environments: a red (tables and sushi bar) and green (lounge-y with a wall of flames) room; a subterranean lounge; and a riverfront terrace - an invitingly dreamy setting of draped daybeds and candlelight. The menu takes creative license with traditional Japanese fare and creates a hot and cold mix of not-to-be-missed specialties, like the Kobe carpaccio, lobster spring rolls, the six seafood tartars and the maki rolls. Though service has been an issue, the food, décor and pretty cocktails you'll drink here make up for it - try the "Floating Orchids" or choose from the extensive sake menu. At 600 W. Chicago Ave. (at Larrabee St.).

Gibson's Bar and Steakhouse (Chi - Gold Coast/Streeterville) - Named after the Gibson martini (garnished with an onion), this bar and restaurant commemorates all things big and bigger. Known for its "big martinis, big steaks and big desserts" - Gibsons has long been known to have patrons hooked after just one visit. Try the strawberry shortcake or the "turtle" chocolate-nut-caramel concoction. Reservations are strongly recommended, or be prepared to wait. Gibsons Bar and Steakhouse is located at 1028 North Rush (at Oak St.).

Narcisse (River North) - A former champagne n' caviar bar, Narcisse has gotten serious about fine dining. A swanky hot spot with really attractive eats, drinks, décor and clientele, it boasts a remarkable champagne collection and four-star meals. Start with the sturgeon roe, and then move on to the filet mignon or grilled ostrich. Narcisse offers more than 100 different bubbly choices and a slew of signature cocktails, like the Champagne Marquis, a mix of Perrier-Jouet champagne, Godiva chocolate liqueur and Cuerenta Y Tres (pls don't call it Liquor 43 like the tourists). Psst.... no sneakers, no hats, no athletic gear, no jeans. The restaurant is located at 710 North Clark St. (at Superior St.).

Piece (Bucktown) - Where else can you create your own East Coast, thin-crust style pizza in a trendy and casual bar atmosphere? With two sunken lounge areas, a long bar, and a number of booths and tables, Piece also features games - shown on projection screens and TV's, live Jazz on Wednesdays, karaoke night Thursdays, and live bands on Saturdays. The place also has an excellent selection of beers on tap that include: Hoegaarden, Onion Pale Ale, Goose Island and Guinness. If you're more Dockers, than DKNY - make your way here. Piece is located at 1927 W North Ave. (at Winchester Ave.).

LuxBar (Chi - Gold Coast/Streeterville) - A neighborhood saloon, LuxBar captures an elegance and simplicity with its stone, glass brass and wood to a late-30's business crowd. Artisanal in style, the menu offers traditional comfort food and some new contemporary favorites mixed in; try Kobe burger with foie gras. The bar serves specialty cocktails and classics all made from natural, fresh ingredients. (The staff here has also been trained in the customer care philosophy that has made Gibson's Steakhouse famous for legendary service.). If you can, grab a seat near the marble fireplace in the back of the room - it adds intimacy to a meal, while the floor-to-ceiling front windows offer great people-watching. LuxBar is located at 18 East Bellevue (at State St.).

Zapatista (CHI - South Loop) - The Mexican fare at this latest rustic-like restaurant in the South Loop is made with passion, heart & soul. The menu variety ranges from burritos, tacos & enchiladas to specialties like Camarones Sinaloa & Carne a la Parrilla, and guacamole made table-side. With its slow-turning fans, amped-up mariachi tunes and black & white photos, Zapatista is a lively cantina with indoor/outdoor seating that serves some of the finest quality tequilas available (with your choice of 50 here); not to mention, their specialty drink list is amazing. Try the Azul y Oro - a blue margarita made with Gran Gala orange liquor and La Revolucion with grenadine and chile piquin. Located at 1307 South Wabash (13th St.).

Le Colonial (Chi - Gold Coast/Streeterville) - If you're looking to be transported to another time and place, Le Colonial vividly captures the beauty, romance and spirit of 1920's French-Colonial Southeast Asia. Recline beneath a palm tree on a cushy rattan chair, while surrounded with luxurious décor at this Chi-town destination. With a well-to-do crowd and, a dining area on one floor and a lounge upstairs, this restaurant is the perfect setting for a social gathering or a romantic evening for two. Boasting authentic Vietnamese cuisine on the menu, all the dishes are exquisite. Try the sea scallops, filet mignon and the Vietnamese tapioca for dessert. Le Colonial is located at 937 North Rush St. (Cross Street: Walton Pl.).

Blackbird (Chi - Downtown) - Serving French and American cuisine to a consistently packed house (daily), Blackbird is very trendy and minimalist - with bare white walls and a single banquette that spans the length of the room. The menu here (thanks to chef extraordinaire Paul Kahan) is dedicated to adventurous, market-fresh fare. Nearly every dish is a masterpiece! Try the creamy foie gras, the venison salad or the signature bouillabaisse. Just make sure you save enough room afterwards for what may be Chicago's best bread pudding! Blackbird is located at 619 W Randolph St. (at Desplaines and Jefferson Sts.).

Twisted Lizard (Lincoln Park/DePaul) - A lively Mexican restaurant that caters to young professionals who love to feast on fresh fajitas, enchiladas, chimichangas, burritos and "sincronizadas" (layered flour tortillas filled with re-fried black beans and choice of meat or vegetables). The décor is festive (surprise, surprise) and the cheerful Mexican music lends a fiesta-like ambiance to the ever-flowing margaritas (there are eight different types of margaritas served by the pitcher and more than 20 brands of tequila for building even more margaritas). Just make sure you go early or be prepared to wait (the citrusy margaritas and fresh chips and salsa make it worthwhile) at this basement-level restaurant. Twisted Lizard is located at 1964 North Sheffield Ave. (at Armitage Ave.).

Yoshi's Café - Formerly one of Chi-town's most exclusive dining spots, Yoshi's has now adopted a more casual (and less expensive) vibe. The eclectic fusion menu is amazing and features dishes that could be described having Japanese, Italian, French and American influences. Try the duck liver mousse pâté and house-cured salmon sushi, or the artichoke and radicchio risotto. Don't miss the Skyy Ginger cosmo either - its made with gingered lime juice, Skyy vodka and Cointreau, and garnished with fresh ginger. Yoshi's Café is located at 3257 N. Halsted St. (at. Melrose St.).

Tavern on Rush (River North) - If you're looking for something that's part restaurant, part lounge, Tavern on Rush offers both. With big steaks and a clubby atmosphere, this place draws a 30-something crowd to its country-club décor, leather accents and open kitchen. Though you might expect a dress code, there isn't one (which means you'll see blue jeans and the most expensive work suits). The classic American menu doesn't disappoint with its great selection of steak and seafood options. And, if you're in the mood for a cocktail - go for the martini, theirs are big enough to swim in! Taven on Rush is located at 1031 N. Rush St. (bet. E. Cedar St. and E. Bellevue Pl.).

Avec - If you're looking for a wine bar with great food, and you don't mind rubbing elbows with your neighbors at long communal tables, Avec is the place. The menu here focuses on small and large sharing plates of rustic, Mediterranean "peasant foods" - with many dishes cooked in a wood-burning oven and served in cast-iron pots. Try the house-marinated olives, chorizo-stuffed dates, the thin focaccia with truffle oil or the roasted chicken thigh panzanella salad. Avec also boasts a cheese cave with a collection of artisan cheeses from France, Portugal, Spain and Italy. Avec is located at 615 W. Randolph St. (at Jefferson St.).

X/O Chicago - This loungy place is named after the cognac designation (XO stands for "extra old" - the premium designation). The eclectic menu inflects global influences and mainly focuses on small sharable plates that change frequently, based on the season. The menu is divided into three "courses" - beginning with light dishes like the shrimp salad; progressing into second course like foie gras; and then the third course with choices like rib-eye steak with X/O sauce. For all you dessert lovers: try the Chocolate Orgasm (think puffy chocolate beignets and flourless chocolate cake). Located at 3441 N Halsted St. (at Newport Ave.).

Fireplace Inn (Old Town) - An Old Town institution specializing in "Flinstone-sized" fall-off-the-bone BBQ baby back ribs, Fireplace Inn has been around since 1969. Boasting a casual ski-lodge-like vibe inside, and an all-season patio (with retractable roof) featuring 16 satellite-fed televisions outside, the Fireplace Inn satisfies many with its updated old-school environment. The menu also offers steak specialties, seafood and salads. If you're not in the mood for ribs, go for the BBQ chicken with mashed potatoes and gravy. Located at 1448 N. Wells St. (at Schiller).

Beautiful Savanah, Georgia - A City of Parks

Ft. Pulaski is on Cockspur Island, East of the historic downtown Savannah. It was built by orders of President Madison as the primary defense for the Savannah River, Ft. Pulaski (named after the Polish hero of the revolutionary War, who lost his life at the Battle of Savannah), was considered state of the art for military defenses. Seven and half foot masonry walls were able to withstand anything the enemy could throw at that time. Before the US Government could occupy the fort, Georgian militia moved in and then handed the fort over to the Confederacy after Georgia seceded six months later. The union had a new invention, the rifle canon. It took only thirty hours to breach the walls using this new form of artillery. Canon balls are still imbedded in the walls. The cannon balls breached the walls. The next volley would have hit the powder magazine. The commandant raised the white flag.

The fort is an architectural marvel. The walls are freestanding with masonry arches as the foundation and the roof. The attached pictures do not do justice to the beauty of the fort. The important lesson to be learned from visiting this magnificent fortress is that nothing built by man is indestructible. For every defense, a new offensive weapon is developed to penetrate. This pertains, not only to military matters, but also to matters of human nature. Just think the effect of love and kindness has over the long haul against any psychological defense. Robert E. Lee designed the outlieing battleworks for the fort.

Further East is Tybee Island. The island features the oldest and tallest lighthouse in Georgia. The island also has more parking meters per capita than anywhere else. If their primary industry is tourism, they have a peculiar way of welcoming them, even in stormy weather.

Walking around the fort and driving during a rainstorm, stirs up the appetite. Where does one eat when on the Atlantic coast? At a crab shack, of course. We found one, aptly named the Crab Shack, which was crowded. Our appetites overruled our desire to stay dry. When the rain diminished a little, we slogged through the ankle deep puddles to the restaurant. We had to wait for a table. But the wait was well worth the time. The food was copious, tasty, and relatively inexpensive. The atmosphere was akin to Jimmy Buffet's Margarittaville.

It was also the perfect time to visit historic Savannah: the end of the Music Festival, the beginning the St. Patrick's Day celebrations, and the fortieth anniversary of the restoration of the Davenport House.

CAT, the regional transportation authority, offers a free shuttle service throughout the historical district. Trolleys operate every twenty minutes Mon-Sat and every forty minutes on Sunday. It is a great way to get an overview of the city. You also get to meet a wide variety of tourists, homeless, and just regular folks.

The historic district is laid out around a system of squares and boulevards. Each square, 21 in totality, (used to be 28 in the original plans) start a few blocks from at the riverfront and are situated five abreast and five deep. The squares are surrounded by homes, public buildings, and churches. Separating each group of squares is a tree lined boulevard with one way streets running in either direction. The traffic flows remarkable well through this part of the city. The squares, now parks, were originally pasture lands where the livestock could feed. Today the visitor has a feeling of open spaces in an urban environment.

Many of the houses have been restored recently. Davenport House c. 1820 was having a birthday party with free tours. The house is now owned by the Savannah Foundation and was its first renovation project. General W. T. Sherman saved the city from destruction, but it was almost accomplished by developers one hundred years later.

Other houses of note are the Gordon-Low house, the home of Juliette Low, the founder of the Girl Scouts of America, the Andrew Low house (her birthplace), Flannery O'Connor's childhood home, and the Green-Meldrim House, where Sherman resided during his occupation.

Not to be missed is Bay Street, Factors Walk, and River Street. Along here are the old Cotton Exchange, now a Masonic Lodge, City Hall and the old customs house. On River Street, a cobble stoned street with a railroad track running down the center, are restaurants and souvenir shops. On the upper level, which fronts Bay Street are various professional offices.

A restaurant of note, which serves very good food, without resorting to a high tab is B. Matthew's Bakery-Eatery at 325 E. Bay Street. Situated in an actual bakery, they offer soup, sandwiches, quiches and various salads on an eat-in or take-out variety. We had soup, quiche, and an excellent Apple-Pecan Chicken Salad. The bakery is across from Ermmet Park, which has a Celtic Cross and the statue of the waving girl who welcomed every ship which came up the river. [Bay Street Factors Walk]

Within the historical district is Colonial Park Cemetery, where many Revolutionary War heroes are interred. Historical markers dot many of the gravesites describing the lives of the individuals.

Historic Downtown takes more than one day to explore. There are many places we want to visit in great depth in the future.

Visited Fort Jackson, another masonry fort erected to protect Savannah. The city spires are visible from the fort. Established by Thomas Jefferson, it saw duty in the war of 1812 and the Civil War. The walls were never breached. The fall of Savannah came from the West with Sherman's March to the Sea. The fort was evacuated and then fell into disuse. Just off shore, in the middle of the river lies the remains of The SS Georgia, an ironclad vessel, which was scuttled in order to keep out of the Union's hands. The Fort has frequent reenactments of the various wars in which the fort participated.

Drove around Forsyth Park on the West Side of the Historical District. We were surprised to see so many young people playing a form of Frisbee Football. We found out later that they were students of the Savannah College of Arts and Design (SCADS), which has purchased most of the large buildings of downtown Savannah. The college is a major presence in the city.

Tried to find Bonaventure Cemetery, the old cemetery of the city. The maps misdirected us and we were forced to ask for directions. Thank goodness for a young man waiting for a bus. He knew where the cemetery was and told us where to turn. The cemetery itself was interesting and included many graves of soldiers who died in defense of Savannah. Unlike The Colonial Park Cemetery in the Historic District, this one did not have historical markers.

A short distance from there is the Chatham County Garden Center and Botanical Gardens. Being early spring, not much was in bloom. Perhaps during the summer or early fall more flowers will be visible.

Top Five UK Restaurant Stories - July 2010

5. Skye Restaurant Named One of the Top 5 in the World by Famed Critic

A restaurant in Skye has been declared one of the best five places in the world to eat by famed food critic Frank Bruni. Staff at The Three Chimneys were ecstatic at the news that Mr Bruni rated them so highly, with the critic lavishing praise on the popular sea food restaurant in an article, stating that the restaurant was "an enchanting experience through and through. Some diners come by helicopter from Edinburgh or Glasgow: that's how big a deal this restaurant is in Scotland. It's intimate, beautiful, serves amazingly fresh local seafood, and does right by the local lamb as well."

The restaurant is run by a husband and wife team, with Shirley Spear acting as Head Chef while running the business alongside her husband Eddie. She said that "We did not know it, but he visited us two years ago and obviously still retains fond memories of his experience here. To be selected as one of only five well-known greats such as Trattoria Monti in Rome or Hill Country in New York is staggering."

The Spears took over the restaurant when they decided to make a lifestyle change and move their young children from Croydon to the comparatively quieter region of Skye.

4. EU Not to Ban Selling Eggs by the Dozen

In a move that food lobbyists in Britain will likely celebrate, it has been confirmed that the EU is not planning on banning the sale of groceries by quantity. Renate Sommer MEP responded to suggestions that shoppers might have to change their habits by stating that "There will be no changes to selling foods by number."

Earlier in the month the European Parliament rejected an amendment that proposed that some foods traditionally sold by number could be exempt from the proposals to label food by weight.

However Ms Sommers confirmed that the new rules would simply allow for both weight and number to be indicated, requiring little in the way of changing the traditional method of purchasing. The law appears to have no actual effect on how goods are sold, and simply seems to enforce that each product sold should have its weight indicated.

British Labour MEP Glenis Willmott said "there is absolutely nothing in the new rules... that would prevent producers from selling their products by quantity - so to say that it won't be possible to sell eggs by the dozen is plain wrong".

3. Bromley Beats Out Birmingham to be Named UK's Curry House Capital

The small town of Bromley has been named the UK's curry house capital after a survey revealed that the town had one Indian restaurant for every 853 residents in the town in south-east London.

The town beat of stiff competition from a number of other locations, including Birmingham which has become renowned for its "Balti Belt", a range of Indian Restaurants in the city centre. Other hotspots include Reading and Leicester.

There are currently believed to be around 9,000 Indian restaurants across the country, with Birmingham hosting a large amount of them but simply not matching the restaurant to person ratio of Bromley. The survey was released to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the UK's first Indian restaurant, with one in five UK residents now claiming that Indian food is their favourite meal.

2. Radical Indian Restaurant Defies Normal Conventions

Chef Dev Biswal is looking to bring through wholesale changes to the Indian restaurant scene after opening a restaurant that doesn't serve any curry dishes but does serve pork dishes. The controversial move comes attached to a promise that the restaurant will provide gourmet Indian food, however the use of pork seems to go completely against the halal traditions upheld by most Indian restaurants.

Biswal, who has worked as an executive chef in a Michelin starred restaurant, says the move is "something almost unknown in the UK's 10,000 predominantly Bangladeshi-owned south Asian establishments." Dishes are scheduled to change daily and will include a range of off-kilter Indian recipes.

He also intends to prove that wine can be matched to Indian cuisine, and is holding a tasting session to prove his point on the 8th August.

1. The Restaurant Show Begins Preparations for 2010 Event

The Restaurant Show 2010 is getting closer and closer, with event organisers promising everything from live shows to competitions and seminars in an attempt to attract visitors working in the restaurant and pub sectors. The show is now in its 22nd year and will run between October 11 - 13, boasting a line-up that includes some of the UK's biggest chefs as well as tips from restaurant heads on how to succeed in such a competitive field.

Show organisers are planning a number of features, such as;

- A Centre stage to host the top chefs in the business as they provide workshops for interested foodies.
- A competition theatre that will see chefs from around the country go head to head to see which can create the best dish.
- A drinks quarter that allows bar managers to gain extra information and insight into stocking the right wines and spirits.
- Business seminars in which visitors can tap the minds of some of the biggest names in the industry.

World's Most Beautiful Cities

Defining a city can be difficult, but Hugh Newell Jacobson may have managed a way to do so, but describing the beauty of a city and actually naming the top most beautiful cities in a world, can be a task that can only be described as herculean. Beauty, as they say in the age old clichéd manner, lies in the eyes of the beholder and hence, this list is completely subjective.

Top Most Beautiful Cities in the World

Barcelona

Steeped in history, art and culture, Barcelona is a port city and the second largest city in Spain, which is also home to one of the biggest names in football, FC Barcelona. The city leads the world, where the design industry and gastronomical experimentation is concerned. The love for design is also apparent in the stunning structures that dot the city. A green cover that can be widely attributed to its 68 parks and the work hard, play hard vibe that is visible for everyone at the 7 beaches that it boasts of, Barcelona is also one of the most disabled-friendly cities in the world, thanks to the improvements it had to make in preparation for the 1992 Olympics.

Buenos Aires

The capital and the largest city of Argentina, Buenos Aires is known for its cultural vibrancy and cosmopolitan inhabitants. Porteños or people of the port as the citizens of Buenos Aires, are known to exhibit their live culture, food, fashion, and share a deep rooted love for their traditions. This city which is heralded as one of the most beautiful cities in the world, was founded in 1536. Home to one of the finest opera house in the world, Teatro Colon, La Boca's pressed tin houses, and the passionate dance, Tango, Buenos Aires, is a city that is definitely worth a visit.

Cape Town

One of the most beautiful cities in the world and also one of the most popular destinations for tourists to Africa. With beautiful beaches and the famous Table mountain, that gives a panoramic view of the city at a height of 3,500 feet above sea level, the city is an astonishing potpourri of natural beauty, brilliant architecture, with buildings constructed in the Cape Dutch style, and a rich heritage. The city is the legislative and economic capital of South Africa with a mix of people from different races inhabiting it. In the recent past, Cape Town has topped a number of lists citing the top most beautiful cities in the world.

Chicago

Chi-town, Chi-city, Windy City, Second City, City of Big Shoulders; it is amazing, the number of epithets the city has been awarded with. A few people may question the inclusion of this city in the list of the most beautiful cities in the world, but this city with its cultural dynamism manages to capture the heart of anyone who visits it. A few other feathers in its cap, is that we owe the emergence of skyscrapers, deep dish pizza and America's first African American President to the city of Chicago.

Florence

Renaissance architecture, the art capital of Italy, and World Heritage Site, Florence is widely regarded as the last preserved cradle of the Renaissance. Tourism is the most significant industry in Florence, with thousands of tourists visiting it in a single month. Historically, Florence is the first home to Italian fashion. Most world famous fashion houses, that are now situated at Milan, were first founded at Florence. The Duomo remains the architectural masterpiece in the city where one is spoiled for choice.

Hong Kong

Four of the tallest buildings in the world - need I say more about the architectural spectacle that is Hong Kong. And all these buildings are picturesquely set against a mountain as a backdrop. This city which is a special region of the People's Republic of China, is definitely one the most beautiful cities in the world. This city is a perfect example of,'east meets west,' blending its traditional Chinese heritage with the values that it imbibed during the British regime. Hong Kong is home to several famous martial arts performers like Bruce Lee and Jackie Chan and famous directors like Wong Kar-wai.

Istanbul

The cultural & financial capital and the largest city in Turkey, Istanbul is an energetic city which derives its kick from the innumerable coffee houses and rooftop restaurants, that are forever brimming with people. The bazaars are forever crowded and the commuter ferries are always plying people. The architecture of the city adds to the beauty, with gorgeous domes, minarets, mosques and the most brilliant collection of frescoes which date back to the Byzantine era.

London

Sweeney Todd very famously sang, "There is no place like London". Though he may have had only bad things to say about the city, we cannot stop gushing about this mega-city that was founded almost 2 millenia ago by the Romans. Art, entertainment, music, culture, literature and even films - you name it and London commands its presence in the field. From the picturesque view that the London Eye offers you, to the almost mannequin like Buckingham Palace guards and the Big Ben, London travel ensures enough tourist spots and attractions for everyone and every choice.

New York City

New York, I Love You, a recently released film pays homage to the city that is the financial capital of the U.S.A. The Big Apple is captured in its many moods and sights but the movie still fails to do justice to the city, which is definitely one of the top most beautiful cities in the world. Tom Wolfe had one famously said, "Culture just seemed to be in the air, like part of the weather". Nothing seems truer for New York City, which can boast of being the center for several movements including the Harlem renaissance, jazz dance, hip hop and abstract expressionism. Of course, the fact that it is home to Broadway, Ellis Island, Times Square, Rockefeller Center and the Central Park is just a pleasant afterthought.

Paris

The most romantic city in the world, the home to the Eiffel Tower, Louvre and Notre Dame de Paris which have been the spectacular settings to many a movies, Paris remains 'the city of dreams' for most modern day tourists. Once the world leader in most cultural and artistic pursuits including movies, fashion, philosophy and even gourmet food, today Paris city is fighting a battle to maintain the cultural heritage. But that does not take away from the fact that this gorgeous city remains one of the most beautiful cities in the world and will continue to inspire writers and poets alike.

Rio de Janeiro

Carnival, Samba and a gorgeous natural coastline - Rio de Janeiro which literally means the River of January is an all year party. It is also home to the Corocvado & Sugarloaf mountains, and the statue of Christ the Redeemer, which is widely considered the largest art deco statue in the world. Today it is Brazil's primary tourist attraction and is also the host of the 2016 summer Olympics. The city has a vibrant night life and is an attractive destination for some of the most celebrities in the world.

Shanghai

The city with one of the most beautiful skylines in the world. Shanghai was a hugely cosmopolitan city of China, that suffered a setback in the Mao era. Today it is back in full force, competing for the title of the most advanced cities in the world. It is economically strong, has no fewer than 18 structures that are taller than 200 meters including the Oriental Pearl TV Tower, which is almost 468 meters high. Shanghai owns the status of the cultural and economic center of East Asia.

Sydney

Say Sydney and the first thing that pops into your head is the Opera house, with its expressionist modern design and shell like structure. Sydney is the topmost destinations for immigrants to Australia, which explains its multi-ethnic population. Though the recent racial attacks have been a cause of concern, it does not take away from the fact that the city still remains a tourism haven. It has a grand Mardi Gras procession and New Year fireworks display that finds its way into TV screens across the world.

Tokyo

Fluorescent incandescents, mind-numbing speed, technology, which to a non-Tokyokko (people of Tokyo), will seem like from a few light years in the future, the Wall Street of Japan, never-ending skyscrapers. Just a few of the many images which are symbolic of the city, Tokyo truly, in its own futuristic style deserves to be on the list of the most beautiful cities in the world. The buzz of the city seems like a cover for the movements of music, fashion, architecture, animation and most importantly Manga. The city is structured and ordered and has more restaurants with Michelin stars than Paris and London combined. It also has the distinction of being one of the most expensive cities in the world.

Venice

Visitors are always dumbfounded by this city floating on water, which has been built on 117 islands connected by 150 canals, 400 bridges and innumerable pavements. When your public transport takes the form of boats or gondolas, how can one not call it one of the most beautiful cities in the world? Historically, Venice was supposed to be the link between the East and the West. The city which has been the setting of many literary masterpieces, including Shakespeare's Merchant of Venice, has been for a really long time the favorite destination of tourists.

Hope this list of most beautiful cities in the world has been illuminating to most of you. While the beauty of a place is inherent, it is the people of the city that give it the character that tourist tend to love. This may not be an all inclusive list of the most beautiful cities in the world but we have tried to make it as expansive as possible.