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  • Home
  • About
    • How Soirée Works
    • Why Us?
    • Our Team
    • Testimonials
  • Travel Styles
    • Private Journeys
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    • Exclusive Small Groups
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3/29/2023

9 tips for dining like a pro in Europe

 
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When it comes to food, Europe does it right. Whether a hearty shepherd’s pie in the U.K., a flaky croissant in France, or a divine risotto in Italy, travelers to Europe are in for a treat.

Yes, it’s true that sometimes budget limitations, fatigue, or lack of know-how means visitors to Europe may feel frustrated or that they’ve wasted their precious travel dollars on a less-than-satisfying dining experience, but it doesn’t have to happen.

Keep these dining tips in mind, and you’re likely to find eating in Europe one of the highlights of your trip.​

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3/9/2023

8 ways to enjoy Slow Food dining

 
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The Slow Food movement is nothing new. Originating in 1986 when Italian Carlo Petrini protested the opening of a McDonald’s restaurant near the Spanish Steps in Rome, the Slow Food movement represents a response to the fast food lifestyle. With an emphasis on locally-grown ingredients and traditional, regional cuisine, the movement is responsible for some of the best dining experiences around the world.

Yes, the movement has a website and is well-organized, but in truth the Slow Food movement is less an association and more a philosophy. Eat simple. Eat authentic products. Eat traditional. Slow down. Enjoy. Promote local cuisine, small farms.
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So, how can travelers explore and enjoy slow food?


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4/4/2022

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Recipe: Coq Au Vin

 
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It's autumn, and we're thinking of savory comfort foods now while dreaming of Paris in the spring. ​This rich, aromatic French favorite can inspire you to start planning your next French connection!

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3/17/2022

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Recipe: Irish Coffee

 
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Ah, there's nothin' like the luck of the Irish, and we're feeling it when we sip a lovely Irish coffee!

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3/10/2022

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Recipe: Pesto Bianco Ligure

 
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This delicious Pesto Bianco Ligure recipe from Italy is light, savory, and just right for spring gatherings.

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12/1/2021

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6 Searching for Italy recipes

 
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If you're like us, Stanley Tucci's Searching for Italy left you craving some serious Italian food! Well, six of those delicious, authentic recipes have been collected for you!

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3/4/2021

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Recipe: French Butter Cake with Fudge Frosting

 
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You had us at "butter." This recipe from our friends at Around the World in 80 Plates has our mouths watering!

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2/24/2021

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Stanley Tucci: Searching for Italy

 
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Stanley Tucci: Searching for Italy

We admit it: we're giving two thumbs up for Stanley Tucci's new food series on CNN. In fact, we know well and love the mouthwatering foods and destinations he highlights!

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2/18/2021

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Junk Food & Wine Pairings

 
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Let's admit it. Sometimes we can't resist the ooey-gooey goodness of junk food. There's a wine pairing for that.

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2/11/2021

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Recipe: Italian Hot Chocolate

 
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Cioccolata Calda (Italian Hot Chocolate)

Whatever you call it, Italy's thick, rich chocolate-fantasy-in-a-cup is easy to make and perfect for cold winter days--and nights!

​Check out our 5-ingredient recipe that will have you imagining yourself in a scenic piazza in no time.

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2/9/2021

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Recipe: Spanish Tortilla

 
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Spanish Tortilla

This traditional Spanish egg, potato, and onion dish can be served as breakfast, lunch, tapa, or dinner. It even makes a great light, yet satisfying, picnic course. In fact, it's even better at room temperature!

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2/4/2021

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Recipe: Pasta & Bean Soup (Pasta e Fagioli)

 
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Pasta & Bean Soup (Pasta e Fagioli)

No matter what you call it, this aromatic comfort food is all about great taste and timeless tradition. 

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1/8/2021

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Recipe: Tanzanian Yogurt & Honey Bread

 
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The thought of this yogurt & honey bread, lathered with high-quality butter, whisks us away to beautiful, exclusive retreats in Tanzania.

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12/17/2020

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Recipe: Italian Lentil Soup

 
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It's well known that Italian cooks create culinary masterpieces rich in flavor and texture with only a few simple ingredients. And this lentil soup is no exception. ​So magical is this savory and robust zuppa, that it is traditionally eaten at midnight on New Year's Eve to bring prosperity and luck for the new year.

But don't leave a trip to Italy up to the fates! We are Italy specialists, and when you're ready, we'll help you plan your customized Italy vacation.

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12/14/2020

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Recipe: Mulled Wine

 
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There's nothing like a Holiday Market to get you in the spirit of things! The famous German Christmas Markets have sparked similar celebrations around the globe, but there's something extra special about enjoying an original! Is a European Christmas Market on your wish list? Stir up this delicious mulled wine recipe to inspire you, and let's start planning now for Europe next year!

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12/14/2020

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Recipe: Venetian cookies (Zaeti)

 
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Zaeti are among the most popular cookies in Venice. This authentic recipe makes a thoughtful treat or gift, especially for yourself or loved ones who are dreaming of Italy! And when you're ready for a customized, immersive Italy experience, we'll be here to help.

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12/6/2020

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Recipe: Hanukkah Potato Latkes

 
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Potato latkes--crispy on the outside, soft on the inside--are a Hanukkah must-have! Typically served with applesauce and sour cream, these golden fried delights are a holiday favorite.

​Even better, 
eat them in Israel! Let's get started on your perfect custom itinerary

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11/29/2020

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Recipe: Blue Ribbon Cornbread

 
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Autumn is quickly shifting toward winter as temperatures drop and the last leaves fall. Cornbread is an American classic, a perfect companion to the soups and stews that add cozy comfort to this season. And America's classics are all the rage this year, from National Parks to the national treasures of our beautiful United States. Looking to explore close to home in 2021? Let's start planning!

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11/1/2020

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Recipe: Italian Meatballs

 
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Italian Meatballs in Tomato Puree

Forget what you think you know about Italian meatballs!  Italian food and travel blogger, culinary guide, and cooking instructor Monica Cesarato of Cook in Venice shares an authentic Italian comfort food with us. And we love it!
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Known as polpette in Italian, meatballs are a main dish, and are generally not served mixed with pasta. Try this simple and delicious hearty recipe, and let's dream of Italy together!

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5/15/2020

Italian coffee basics

 
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(Note: you'll find a quick coffee tutorial below)

​This author didn't drink coffee until a few years ago. Yes, when I was a very little girl, I stole sips from my father's cup, back before he started drinking it black and sugarless.

I've always found the aroma of coffee comforting. But once my palate developed, and I got past the age where even finger scoops of butter sounded like a treat, I flat out didn't like the taste of coffee, no matter how divine it smelled.


Until I let my guard down and tried it in Italy. Oh. My.


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