A Perfect Celebration of Food in Dubai

While Dubai boasts a myriad of noteworthy cultural facets, only a few come close to its iconic cuisine. Those who have been to the great culinary event known as the Taste of Dubai would immediately agree that the seemingly simple opportunity of being able to experience Dubai's unique flavors should never be missed. Despite becoming aware of such an encouraging fact however, it is only to be expected that many would still be skeptical as to whether such a food-filled festivity warrants a visit to Dubai. So as not to miss a truly unique dining opportunity, those still in doubt should read on.

As it is highly praised as one of the best Dubai events, March 2012 would definitely be filled with excitement as the aforementioned food festival takes place. One of the main reasons as to why it is considered as the top attraction in Dubai during March, is that the festival brings forth both gastronomic and auditory pleasures. It should be pointed out though, that those behind the festival do not merely provide diners with a chance to eat while listening to suitable music, but they make it a point to showcase Dubai's best music artists so as to truly satisfy the crowd.

Aside from being an unforgettable dining experience, the Taste of Dubai is also touted as a memorable learning opportunity. While many are not aware, the festival also encompasses a myriad of accessible cooking lessons that should pique the interest of every food lover. Akin to the musical talents employed to intrigue diners, the chefs chosen to educate as well as entertain food enthusiasts are among the best in their profession. True cooking aficionados would surely recognize names such as Aldo Zilli and Richard Sandoval, and would truly be surprised upon realizing that such top chefs would directly interact with their fans.

When planning to attend global food festivals such as the Taste of Dubai, even the most enthusiastic food lovers would have to face a particular concern: how to entertain their children while also entertaining themselves. While many immediately give up upon realizing such a problem, those who spend a bit more time to learn more about the aforesaid gastronomic celebration would definitely be pleased with what they would find out: the festival also features a top-notch kid's area that would surely grab the attention of any child. Merely showing kids a picture of the massive play area would definitely make them want to go.

Ten Cafes in Chicago

Forget about Seattle, Chicago is actually the most caffeinated city in America. With average Chicagoans spending nearly three times the national average at coffeehouses, it's no surprise that the Windy City is home to some unique cafes. For those new to Chicago, you must pay patronage to the java gods by getting your caffeine buzz at least once from this list of Chicago's most aroma-arousing cafes and coffeehouses.

1. Earwax - (1561 N. Milwaukee - Wicker Park) - This un-aptly-named vegan brunch diner is just one of Wicker Park's peculiar places to score some joe. Don't let the name fool you, local hipsters speak highly of Earwax's bottomless cup of coffee. After you get your fix, check out the foreign film rental establishment below.

2. Mercury Cafe - (1505 W. Chicago - East Village) The enormous space within Mercury Café makes it a great place for gatherings of friends or other meetups. Or you can just isolate yourself and enjoy the tea, coffee, and espresso drinks available on their robust menu.

3. Wormhole - (1462 N. Milwaukee - Wicker Park) Make no mistake, this Wicker Park café is hipster-approved and certified. A charming place with an unmistakably funky vibe apparent from the collection of toys and novelty items decorating the walls. The pop-culture savvy will appreciate the humorous references to old-school video games, films, and Internet memes.

4. @Spot Café - (901 N. Larrabee - Noble Square) - A family-owned gourmet food and drink café with award-winning Paninis. This comfortable coffeehouse is a great place to relax and enjoy some local musicians or peruse the art on the walls.

5. Bridgeport Coffee Company - (3101 S. Morgan Street - Bridgeport) Perhaps the best café in Chicago's south side, the Bridgeport Coffee Company is a part of the neighborhood's history. Wi-fi, coffee, sandwiches, and fresh flowers on the tables - what more could you ask for?

6. Unicorn Café - (1723 Sherman Avenue - Evanston) Get away from the hustle and bustle of Chicago and take a trip just north of Chicago to check out this creative café in Evanston. A friendly place with a welcoming vibe may be just what new-in-town Chicagoans need to kick the big city blues.

7. Filter - (1373-75 N. Milwaukee - Wicker Park) It disappeared for some time, but the new and improved Filter has once again found its place as a staple of Wicker Park coffee. Thrift store décor and plenty of couches add to the comfy lounge environment where you can often find patrons with their requisite laptops or groups of friends.

8. Caffe Streets - (1750 W. Division - Bucktown) The wooden interiors give Caffe a rustic vibe perfect for enjoying their specialty coffees from different roasters. There's no Wi-fi, but this only adds to the down-home atmosphere, along with the friendly baristas.

9. Intelligentsia - (3123 N. Broadway - Lakeview) They have multiple locations now, but the most well-known can be found along the busy Broadway Avenue in Lakeview. These guys take coffee seriously, actually developing their own while working alongside growers. But don't let the hoity-toity attitude fool you, this café is just as accessible to the common man.

10.Julius Meinl - (4363 N. Lincoln - Lincoln Square) This international roaster offers a selection of premium coffee blends from all over the world. Known for impeccable service, interesting food, and a vibe of sophistication, this is a great place for intimate conversation.