Localeur’s Takeout Guide
Something we’re thankful for after 2020? Tons of our favorite restaurants around the world are absolutely nailing it in the takeout and delivery game. We’re sharing our picks for grabbing a well-prepared meal to enjoy from the safety and comfort of home, whether a special occasion looms or you simply can’t bear the idea of your own cooking.
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Nicli Antica
Vancouver, Canada
A fan favorite in Vancouver and the first-ever VPN (Verace Pizza Napoletana-certified) pizzeria in town, the Nicli Antica boasts the authenticity of Neapolitan-style pizzas. Intentionally light on the sauces and toppings, the focus of the pizzas here are the fine ingredients. The level of pride Nicli takes to maintain its pizzas is truly legitimate. Pre-pandemic, this place didn’t offer delivery or takeout; today, bringing a pie home is a breeze. Check back in early December, when Nicli promises to sell frozen pies to whip up in your own oven.
Mandolin Aegean Bistro
Miami, Florida
One of Miami’s most idyllic date night restaurants hasn’t abandoned the cause despite date nights mostly taking place at home these days. Mandolin is THE spot for thoughtfully prepared Mediterranean food in the Magic City; they’re absolute experts in the cuisine, cooking up some of the best grilled octopus, lamb chops, and baklava you’ll ever eat stateside. The Greek and Turkish samplers are great options for getting your mezze fix – and don’t overlook their pantry offerings when you go to place your order.
Bahadur
Berlin, Germany
Bahadur is a young, authentic, and exciting Indian restaurant in Wilmersdorf that stands in stark contrast to the run-of-the-mill Berlin Indian restaurant experience. Run by Punjabis, their speciality is grilled meats, breads, and dishes using their tandoor oven. Their lamb chops and grilled prawns are fantastic and reassuringly spicy; their thalis are also a sight to behold, featuring a range of different curries and pickles, served with perfectly cooked pilau rice and a bhatoora – that big inflatable bread.
Miss Sophie
Oslo, Norway
For those who dine in, Miss Sophie is all about conjuring the vibe of a wild night in Paris combined with the cocktail scene of New York – but don’t fret, as their takeout game is also strong, perhaps best in terms of its brunch appeal. In fact, Miss Sophie was one of the first places in Oslo to offer a proper brunch concept and quickly became as highly sought-after in the daylight hours as it is after dark. Order up a spread full of smoothie bowls, beautiful salads, belly-filling sandwiches, and tons of coffee for the perfect lazy Sunday.
Canlis
Seattle, Washington
Known for decades as the definitive special-occasion Seattle restaurant, Canlis was remarkably quick to shift its focus from the place you go to for your 10th anniversary to the place you think of first when it comes to enjoying a night in. From their early-pandemic popups featuring bagels, burgers, and family meals to their at-home bingo stream, drive-in movie nights, well thought-out dinner spreads, and online “Community College” offering crash courses in all things food and wine, this place proves again and again that it’s earned its place in the hearts of many a Seattle local.
Wine Food Market
Prague, Czech Republic
On the edge Smíchov outside the historical center, Wine Food Market has a wide range of Italian goodies that practically beg to be boxed up and taken home. Order from the extensive menu that utilizes the best the market has to offer: Pizzas are available on both a classic and a gourmet menu, and they come in two sizes. Pastas, meats, and fish dishes should not be overlooked, nor should the custom-made sweet treats at the dessert counter. And, as the name of this place suggests, it’s imperative that you check out their wine selection.
Comedor
Austin, Texas
We dare you to find a restaurant in Austin more talked about than Comedor. The menu is packed with what’s considered to be modern Mexican cuisine – but if you’ve been to Mexico in the past decade, you know that what some consider contemporary is simply new to the states. Comedor successfully transforms these traditional latin delicacies for layman consumption, from tacos and tostadas to tortas and larger protein dishes. If you forget to add a pre-made margarita or Jester King bomber to your order, you’re doing it wrong.
El Pastor
London, England
Are you hungry for a little taco party at home? Give the idea a couple of minutes to sink in and you’ll be sold. This multi-locationed favorite of Londoners has taken its appeal to new heights in 2020, cooking up all its most popular dishes but, as they say, “leaving the fun part to you” by letting diners assemble these delectable creations themselves. Margaritas and sides are available to round things out, and all deliveries are packaged in sustainable materials. If you haven’t tried out El Pastor yet, there’s no time like the present.
Arthurs Nosh Bar
Montreal, Canada
From brunch specials like shakshuka to the latke smorgasbord you never knew you needed, this Jewish deli in Montreal is an ace in the takeout arena. Fish – from the classic bagel and lox to the formidable “salmon tower for two" – is sustainably sourced; pancakes arrive in batter form for you to griddle yourself (because pancakes just don’t hit the same when you get them to go). If you’re looking to have the ultimate weekend nosh, mimosas and all, Arthurs is your spot.
Doris Metropolitan
Houston, Texas
Houston is known for a couple of things, one being its meat; in this case, specifically steak. Doris Metropolitan, in the middle on Montrose off Shepard Street, is a standout for adding its Middle Eastern flair to cuts on offer, a unique concept even in a city whose identity is so firmly rooted in its food scene. Go à la carte or opt for a prix fixe meal for two or four people; finish off the sous-vide meats on your grill at home. You can’t go wrong and won’t leave hungry.
Love Baked Wings
Los Angeles, California
You know when Beyoncé’s personal tour chef opens up a wings spot, it’s going to be good. Even the most health-conscious foodies among us need a good protein fix every once in a while. Insert Loved Baked Wings. This tiny little spot on Melrose offers up non-GMO, free-range chicken baked to perfection. Everything here is gluten-free and ridiculously good. If you aren’t sure where to start, try the garlic parm and rosemary (extra crispy!) with a side of homemade ranch (so bomb!), and definitely get yourself an order (or two) of carrot fries – next-level goodness, health nut-style.
Taisteal
Edinburgh, Scotland
Looking for a fancy dinner that’s nonetheless approachable and easy to enjoy at home? Taisteal is the place in Edinburgh. This restaurant is included in the Michelin guide and has many other accolades, and for good reason: The food is delicious. Featuring local Scottish produce presented in many different – at times unusual – ways, this place is sophisticated enough for a celebratory meal and laid-back enough to suit your fancy on a slightly dressed-up weeknight, too.
Other Spots We Love
St. Roch Market
New Orleans, Louisiana
Erich
Vienna, Austria
Fast Sud
Florence, Italy
Puritan & Co.
Boston, Massachusetts
Waypoint Public
San Diego, California
Clamato
Paris, France
Doña Alicia
Havana, Cuba
Naked & Sated
Madrid, Spain
Crazy Sushi
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
T|aco
Boulder, Colorado
Krog Street Market
Atlanta, Georgia
Copper Onion
Salt Lake City, Utah
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