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Favorite Cities of Alex Glushenkov

8 cities I keep returning to, with the restaurants and places I would send a friend to in each.

Jerusalem

Its the best city in the world. This city, a timeless tapestry of cultures, religions, and history, weaves together the threads of humanity's shared heritage, captivating hearts with its sacred magnificence.

Restaurants

  • Machneyuda (Israeli, Mediterranean) — Vibrant spot with innovative local dishes from the best-known chefs in Jerusalem.
  • Ishtabach (Middle Eastern) — Compact restaurant specializing in Kurdish-Syrian pastries amid laid-back surrounds
  • Azura (Middle Eastern) — Traditional Sephardic cuisine in the heart of Mahane Yehuda Market.
  • Mona (Contemporary) — Fine dining with local and international influences in a historic building.
  • Hazot (Chophouse) — Hatzot is a classic Israeli Steak House, with a great selection of homemade salads, meats, some organ meats and the famous Hatzot meurav Yerushalmi.

Places to see

  • Western Wall & Tunnel (Historical, Religious) — One of Judaism's most sacred sites, the Western Wall is a remnant of the Second Temple. The tunnels reveal ancient passageways and archaeological wonders.
  • City of David (Archaeological, Historical) — An active archaeological site believed to be the original urban core of ancient Jerusalem. Explore tunnels, ruins, and guided tours.
  • The Israel Museum (Museum, Cultural) — Israel's national museum featuring art, archaeology, and the Dead Sea Scrolls. Home to the iconic Shrine of the Book.
  • Machaneh Yehudah (Market, Cultural) — A vibrant open-air market mixing spices, produce, street food, and nightlife. A true taste of Jerusalem's culture and cuisine.
  • Holy Sepulchre Church (Religious, Historical) — A major Christian pilgrimage site, believed to be the location of Jesus's crucifixion, burial, and resurrection.

Moscow

A vibrant metropolis where history dances with modernity, beckons visitors with its iconic landmarks, rich cultural tapestry, and the unmistakable pulse of a city that never sleeps.

Restaurants

  • Grand Cafe Dr. Jhivago (Russian) — Elegant Soviet-era inspired restaurant serving traditional Russian dishes with a luxurious twist. Located near the Kremlin, it's known for its lavish decor, caviar service, and classic borscht.
  • Cafe Pushkin (Russian, French) — Iconic Moscow restaurant designed to resemble a 19th-century aristocratic mansion. Serves refined Russian and French cuisine in a historic, literary setting.
  • Khachapuri (Georgian) — Casual and cozy Georgian restaurant famous for its namesake dish—cheese-filled bread. Offers a variety of authentic Georgian comfort foods and wines.
  • Mari Vanna (Russian) — Charming home-style Russian restaurant styled like a grandmother's apartment. Serves nostalgic dishes such as dumplings, pickled vegetables, and hearty soups.
  • Megobari (Georgian) — Trendy Georgian wine bar and restaurant in the heart of Moscow. Combines traditional Georgian flavors with a modern vibe, offering tapas-style plates and a wide wine selection.

Places to see

  • Red square and Kremlin (Historical, Cultural) — The heart of Moscow and a UNESCO World Heritage site, home to iconic landmarks like St. Basil's Cathedral, Lenin's Mausoleum, and the Kremlin fortress.
  • Bolshoi Theatre (Cultural, Entertainment) — One of the world's most famous opera and ballet theatres, known for its grandeur and rich cultural legacy.
  • Vdnkh (Park, Historical) — A vast exhibition park featuring Soviet-era pavilions, fountains, museums, and gardens—a mix of history and recreation.
  • Gorky Park (Park, Leisure) — Moscow's central park offering outdoor activities, bike paths, art installations, and cafes. A modern urban hangout space.
  • Izmaylovskiy Bazar (Market, Cultural) — A colorful open-air market filled with traditional crafts, souvenirs, antiques, and local food—set in a mock fairytale kremlin.

Minsk

A hidden gem nestled in the heart of Belarus, exudes an enchanting allure with its picturesque streets, elegant architecture, and a resilient spirit that whispers tales of a captivating past and a promising future.

Restaurants

  • Wood & Fire (International, Grill) — Contemporary restaurant specializing in wood-fired cooking techniques, offering a diverse menu of grilled specialties.
  • Pinky Bandinsky (Fusion, European) — Trendy restaurant with creative decor and an innovative menu blending international flavors with local ingredients.
  • Ember (Contemporary, Grill) — Upscale dining venue focusing on ember and smoke cooking, creating unique flavors in a sophisticated atmosphere.
  • Lebiažy (Belarusian, European) — Riverside restaurant offering scenic views and a menu featuring traditional Belarusian dishes with modern presentation.
  • FABRIQ (International, Modern) — Industrial-chic restaurant with an open kitchen concept, serving a diverse selection of international dishes and craft beverages.

Places to see

  • Victory Square (Historical, Monument) — A central landmark in Minsk commemorating Soviet soldiers of World War II, marked by an iconic obelisk and eternal flame.
  • Great Patriotic War Museum (Museum, Historical) — A major museum documenting the events of World War II with immersive exhibits and vast collections of military artifacts.
  • Chaliuskincai Park (Park, Leisure) — A large green space in Minsk offering amusement rides, walking paths, and recreational activities for families and visitors.
  • Komarovsky Market (Market, Cultural) — One of the oldest and most vibrant markets in Minsk, offering fresh produce, local specialties, and handmade goods.
  • Circus (Entertainment, Cultural) — A grand Soviet-style circus venue hosting traditional and modern performances that entertain both children and adults.

Paris

A timeless masterpiece of elegance and artistry, unveils enchanting beauty through iconic landmarks and artistic marvels.

Restaurants

  • L'Atelier de Joël Robuchon Étoile (French, Fine Dining) — Michelin-starred fine dining by the legendary Joël Robuchon, offering refined French cuisine in a chic, counter-style setting on the Champs-Élysées.
  • ALCAZAR (Modern French, Fusion) — Trendy Parisian brasserie with a botanical interior, serving modern French cuisine with international touches. Known for weekend brunch and chic ambiance.
  • Angelina (French, Café, Patisserie) — Historic tearoom famous for its hot chocolate and pastries, especially the Mont Blanc. A favorite Parisian stop since 1903 on Rue de Rivoli.
  • Epicure (French, Haute Cuisine) — Three Michelin-starred restaurant at Le Bristol Hotel offering an opulent fine dining experience with exquisite seasonal French cuisine.
  • Relais de l'Entrecôte (French, Steakhouse) — Beloved Parisian steakhouse specializing in one thing: steak-frites with secret sauce. No menu, just perfectly done beef, salad, and crispy fries.
  • Au Chien Qui Fume (French, Steakhouse) — This restaurant offering a traditional and Parisian cuisine made from fresh products directly sourced from market gardeners, poultry farmers, fishmongers and other craftsmen
  • Bistro des lettres (French, Steakhouse) — Located in the heart of the Latin Quarter, their menu features classic dishes with a modern twist, crafted using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients
  • Villa Dondelli (Italian) — This Parisian gem for Italian fine dining, known for its authentic, high-quality cuisine. The menu features gourmet pasta, freshly prepared seafood, and artisanal deli meats sliced with precision.

Places to see

  • Eiffel Tower (Landmark, Observation) — Paris's most iconic landmark, offering panoramic views from its observation decks and a dazzling light show at night.
  • Louvre Museum (Museum, Art) — The world's largest art museum, home to the Mona Lisa, ancient artifacts, and countless masterpieces.
  • Arc de Triomphe (Historical, Monument) — A monumental arch honoring those who fought for France, located at the western end of the Champs-Élysées.
  • Notre-Dame de Paris (Religious, Historical) — A stunning Gothic cathedral known for its architecture, stained glass, and role in Parisian history.
  • Disneyland Paris (Theme Park, Entertainment) — A magical theme park resort offering rides, entertainment, and fun for families and Disney fans of all ages.

Buenos Aires

A vibrant mosaic of passion and tango, intertwines life's rhythm with rich Argentine flavors, captivating visitors with lively energy and profound art appreciation.

Restaurants

  • El Desnivel, San Telmo (Argentine, Steakhouse) — Classic Argentine steakhouse known for its authentic parrilla experience in the heart of San Telmo.
  • Puerto Cristal (Seafood, Argentine) — Upscale waterfront restaurant offering stunning views of Puerto Madero and delicious seafood dishes.
  • Parrilla La Brigada (Argentine, Steakhouse) — Famous steakhouse where servers cut the meat with spoons to demonstrate tenderness, offering a theatrical dining experience.
  • Don Julio (Argentine, Steakhouse) — Award-winning parrilla consistently ranked among Latin America's best restaurants, known for exceptional steaks and wine selection.
  • Santos Manjares (Argentine, International) — Cozy restaurant serving traditional Argentine cuisine with a modern twist in a comfortable atmosphere.

Places to see

  • Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes (Museum, Art) — Argentina's premier fine arts museum featuring works by European masters and prominent Latin American artists.
  • Tres de Febrero Park (Park, Nature) — A vast green oasis in the city with lakes, rose gardens, and space for walking, biking, and relaxing.
  • Plaza de Mayo (Historical, Landmark) — Historic square surrounded by iconic buildings, central to many political and cultural events in Argentina's history.
  • Feira de San Telmo (Market, Cultural) — A lively Sunday market in the historic San Telmo neighborhood offering antiques, crafts, and tango performances.
  • Teatro Colón (Theater, Cultural) — One of the world's finest opera houses, renowned for its exceptional acoustics and stunning architecture.

London

A kaleidoscope of tradition and innovation, proudly wears its crown of iconic landmarks, from Buckingham Palace to Big Ben, echoing history's footsteps.

Restaurants

  • Masala Zone Soho (Indian) — Lively Indian restaurant offering street food-inspired small plates, regional curries, and colorful interiors in the heart of Soho.
  • Blacklock Shoreditch (British, Steakhouse) — Trendy chophouse known for its quality meats, Sunday roasts, and retro-style interior. Great value cuts in a relaxed setting.
  • Flat Iron Covent Garden (Steakhouse) — Popular steak spot offering quality flat iron cuts at reasonable prices. Simple menu, no reservations, and complimentary popcorn while you wait.
  • Dishoom Covent Garden (Indian, Fusion) — Beloved Bombay-inspired café serving richly spiced Indian dishes, legendary breakfasts, and vintage décor. A local favorite with a cult following.
  • The Vault (Bar, Cocktails) — Hidden speakeasy-style whisky bar beneath Milroy's of Soho. Cozy and intimate, with expert bartenders and a vast whisky selection.

Places to see

  • City of Westminster (District, Historical) — The historic and political heart of London, home to iconic landmarks like Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, and Buckingham Palace.
  • Tower of London (Castle, Historical) — A historic castle and former royal palace known for its medieval architecture, Crown Jewels, and centuries of British history.
  • British Museum (Museum, Cultural) — World-famous museum with a vast collection of art and artifacts from ancient civilizations to modern times, including the Rosetta Stone.
  • Hyde Park (Park, Nature) — One of London's largest royal parks, offering lakes, gardens, walking paths, and famous sights like the Serpentine and Speaker's Corner.
  • London Eye (Attraction, Observation Wheel) — A giant observation wheel on the Thames offering panoramic views of London's skyline from glass capsules.

Tel Aviv - Jaffa

A captivating fusion of old and new, where ancient history whispers through the ancient port of Jaffa and modern innovation ignites the vibrant streets of Tel Aviv, creating a dynamic cityscape.

Restaurants

  • Turkiz (Mediterranean, Seafood) — Seafood restaurant with Mediterranean influence in a vibrant atmosphere.
  • Hudson Brasserie (International, Brasserie) — Modern brasserie serving classic dishes with a contemporary twist.
  • Port Sa'id (Middle Eastern, Israeli) — Trendy spot serving Middle Eastern shared plates in a lively atmosphere.
  • OCD TLV (Contemporary, Fusion) — Innovative chef's tasting menu experience with precise attention to detail.
  • Mashya (Israeli, Contemporary) — Upscale restaurant blending local ingredients with modern cooking techniques.

Places to see

  • Carmel Market (Market, Cultural) — A bustling outdoor market offering fresh produce, street food, spices, clothes, and local treats — a vibrant slice of Tel Aviv life.
  • Promenade (Tayelet) (Seafront, Leisure) — A scenic beachfront walkway stretching along the Mediterranean, perfect for biking, walking, or enjoying the sunset over the sea.
  • Old Jaffa (Yafo) (Historic, Cultural) — An ancient port city with winding alleys, galleries, flea markets, and historic architecture overlooking the sea.
  • Neve Tzedek (Neighborhood, Cultural) — One of Tel Aviv's oldest neighborhoods, filled with boutique shops, cozy cafes, and charming architecture.
  • Sarona Market (Market, Culinary) — A modern indoor market offering gourmet food stalls, restaurants, and specialty products in a stylish, lively setting.

New York

New York, the city that never sleeps, pulsates with electrifying energy as towering skyscrapers and yellow taxis race through bustling streets, where dreams and possibilities know no bounds.

Restaurants

  • Katz's Delicatessen (American, Deli) — Iconic Jewish deli famous for its massive pastrami sandwiches and historic NYC charm. A must-visit since 1888.
  • Nusr-Et Steakhouse (Steakhouse, Turkish) — High-end steakhouse led by social media star 'Salt Bae'. Known for flashy presentation, juicy cuts, and gold-covered steaks.
  • Jacob's Pickles (American, Southern) — Comfort food haven on the Upper West Side. Famous for southern-style fried chicken, biscuits, and house-made pickles.
  • Gallaghers Steakhouse (Steakhouse, American) — Classic New York steakhouse near Times Square. Dry-aged steaks, old-school vibe, and a window into the meat locker.
  • Boucherie West Village (French, Brasserie) — Charming French brasserie with a lively vibe. Offers dry-aged steaks, oysters, and classic French fare in a stylish setting.

Places to see

  • Times Square (Landmark, Entertainment) — The iconic heart of Manhattan, famous for its neon lights, Broadway theaters, and buzzing energy — a must-see NYC experience.
  • Statue of Liberty (Monument, Historic) — A symbol of freedom and the United States, this colossal statue stands on Liberty Island and is accessible by ferry.
  • Central Park (Park, Nature) — A massive urban oasis with lakes, meadows, playgrounds, and walking paths — perfect for a stroll, picnic, or boat ride.
  • Empire State Building (Skyscraper, Landmark) — One of the most famous skyscrapers in the world, offering panoramic views of NYC from its observation decks.
  • Chelsea Market (Market, Culinary) — A trendy food hall and shopping space in the Meatpacking District, featuring artisanal bites, shops, and local flavor.