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  • Vegan Pumpkin Pie: the perfect recipe for the Fall season

    Few desserts capture the spirit of autumn quite like a pumpkin pie. Its aroma of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger evokes the comfort of home, cozy sweaters, and crisp fall mornings. This year, try giving this classic a plant-based twist with the vegan pumpkin pie , creamy, spiced, and completely dairy-free. Perfect for Thanksgiving, holiday gatherings, this vegan pumpkin pie  brings all the flavor of the traditional version, but with cruelty-free ingredients that everyone can enjoy. Why choose a Vegan Pumpkin Pie Opting for a vegan pumpkin pie  doesn’t mean compromising on taste. On the contrary, it’s rich and naturally sweet. Plus, it’s easier to digest and environmentally friendly. Whether you follow a vegan lifestyle or just want to reduce your use of animal products, this dessert is a delicious way to do good for yourself and the planet. Ingredients For the crust: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour ½ cup coconut oil or vegan butter (chilled) 2–3 tablespoons ice-cold water 1 tablespoon coconut sugar (optional) A pinch of salt For the filling: 2 cups pumpkin purée (homemade or canned) ¾ cup full-fat coconut milk ½ cup maple syrup or brown sugar 2 tablespoons cornstarch or arrowroot powder 1 teaspoon cinnamon ½ teaspoon nutmeg ½ teaspoon ginger ¼ teaspoon cloves 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract A pinch of salt How to make a Vegan Pumpkin Pie Step 1: prepare the crust. In a bowl, mix flour, salt, and sugar. Add the coconut oil and use your hands to create a crumbly texture. Gradually add cold water until the dough forms. Roll it out and line a 9-inch pie pan. Chill in the fridge while you prepare the filling. Step 2: make the filling. In a large bowl, whisk together pumpkin purée, coconut milk, maple syrup, cornstarch, and spices until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust sweetness or spice to your liking. Step 3: assemble and bake. Pour the filling into the chilled crust. Bake at 180°C / 350°F for about 50–55 minutes, or until the center is just set. Let the pie cool completely, it will firm up as it cools. Step 4 : serve and enjoy. Top your vegan pumpkin pie with coconut whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon. It’s delicious served cold or at room temperature. Tips for a perfect Vegan Pumpkin Pie Homemade pumpkin purée gives a fresher, deeper flavor, but canned works just as well. To make it gluten-free, use almond or oat flour for the crust. For an extratouch, decorate with pecans or a drizzle of maple syrup. This vegan pumpkin pie is simple to make, rich in flavor, and kind to animals, it’s proof that tradition and sustainability can go hand in hand. So this season, bake your pie and share it with your friends. Don't forget to take pictures and tag us on our social media!

  • Trump’s Pasta tariffs: it’s time to make Pasta from scratch

    If you’ve ever wandered down the pasta aisle and tossed a bag of your favorite Italian fusilli or rigatoni into the cart without thinking twice, those days might soon be over. Italian pasta brands are warning that skyrocketing import taxes could make authentic pasta in the U.S. a luxury item. Yes, read that again. A-luxury-item. According to a recent Wall Street Journal  report, the U.S. Department of Commerce has announced a staggering 92% antidumping duty on pasta made by Italy’s top producers, including La Molisana, along with an additional 15% import tariff from the Trump administration’s trade policies toward the European Union. That’s a jaw-dropping 107% in total duties, meaning the cost of importing Italian pasta could more than double overnight. For family-owned producers like La Molisana , based in Campobasso in southern Italy, the new tariffs are devastating. “It’s an incredibly important market for us,” said Giuseppe Ferro to reporters, whose company employs 350 people and generates roughly $400 million in annual revenue. “But no one has those kinds of margins.” In other words, selling pasta in America will soon be too expensive to be sustainable. This isn’t just bad news for Italian businesses. It’s a blow to pasta lovers across the U.S. Authentic Italian brands could start disappearing from supermarket shelves as soon as January, leaving Americans to rely on alternative pasta options. But the question that might arise is: will the flavor and quality ever be quite the same? The Campobasso region, like many parts of rural Italy, depends heavily on local pasta factories. Losing a key export market like the United States could ripple through the local economy, affecting jobs and family-run farms that supply high-quality durum wheat. “It would be a real shame to have the market snatched from us for no real reason,” Ferro told reporters . While Italian exporters are urging the Commerce Department to reconsider the ruling, there’s growing concern that the decision might stick. For American consumers, that means one thing: pasta prices are about to boil over. So, what people can do? Here’s an idea: if imported spaghetti will soon cost a fortune, why not learn to make it yourself? Join one of our hands-on pasta-making classes and discover how to craft fresh tagliatelle, tortellini, and gnocchi from scratch. You’ll learn traditional Italian techniques from real chefs, plus you will enjoy a glass of wine while cooking. Because if pasta is going to cost a million dollars, you might as well have the satisfaction of saying: “I made it myself.”

  • Christmas Gift Ideas: give the gift of a cooking experience with IMPASTIAMO

    This holiday season, skip the usual gifts and give something unforgettable, like an experience to be shared and remembered. With an IMPASTIAMO Gift Card , you’re not just giving a present, you’re gifting a seat at the table with some of Los Angeles’ most passionate chefs. An experience to taste and remember Instead of another item to unwrap, imagine gifting someone the chance to cook handmade pasta with Chef Gino , learn traditional Italian recipes from Chef Maria Elena , explore authentic Sicilian flavors with Chef Gianpaolo , or dive into the colorful world of Mexican salsas with Chef Natalia Luna . Every IMPASTIAMO class is more than a cooking lesson, it’s a celebration of culture and connection. Flexible, meaningful, and fun Our Gift Cards  make it easy to share the love of cooking. Choose the amount you’d like to gift, there’s no expiration date, and they can be used for any class, any cuisine, any time of year . Each experience brings people together to cook, laugh, and enjoy a meal. For families, friends, and teams Whether it’s a family night out, a unique date idea, or a fun way for coworkers to bond, IMPASTIAMO Gift Cards fit every occasion. They’re a perfect alternative to material gifts, no wrapping paper, no clutter, just a joyful, hands-on experience that sparks new skills and great memories. How to get yours You can purchase your IMPASTIAMO Gift Card directly on our website. Choose your amount, add a personal message, and send instantly, ready to make someone’s Christmas truly special. Here's what's next! After purchasing your gift card, contact us to schedule your cooking experience, Choose the location (we’re in California, the Bay Area, NYC, and Texas), Pick your perfect Chef, Select your cooking experience (Cavatelli, Gnocchi, Samosas, Mexican Salsas, or whatever kind of food you like the most!) This year, give a gift that brings people together, give the gift of cooking with IMPASTIAMO.

  • Capunti Pasta: the real Italian recipe

    Today we’ll explore a delicious capunti pasta recipe inspired by Mediterranean flavors: cherry tomatoes, taggiasca olives, and feta cheese. When it comes to traditional Italian food, pasta always takes the spotlight and among the many varieties, capunti pasta stands out for its versatility.  What Is Capunti Pasta? Capunti is a traditional pasta shape from Southern Italy, especially Puglia. It is made by rolling small pieces of semolina dough into elongated, hollow shapes using the fingers. The grooves in capunti are perfect for holding onto sauces.  The Mediterranean flavours This capunti pasta is a recipe that celebrates the Mediterranean diet, known for its fresh vegetables, olive oil, and healthy flavors. These ingredients not only taste incredible together but also reflect the rich culinary heritage of Southern Europe. Ingredients To prepare this Mediterranean capunti pasta , gather the following fresh and high-quality ingredients. For the Capunti pasta: 400 gr of semolina flour 200 gr of lukewarm water Pinch of salt For the Mediterranean sauce:  250 g cherry tomatoes, halved 80 g Taggiasca olives, pitted 150 g feta cheese, crumbled 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 1 garlic clove, finely chopped Fresh basil leaves Salt and pepper to taste Step-by-Step Preparation Prepare the Capunti To prepare capunti, combine the semolina with lukewarm water and start mixing in a bowl. Continue until you obtain a smooth dough ball. Once the dough is ready, let it rest under a kitchen towel for 5 minutes. In the meantime, prepare the sauce. Prepare the Sauce Cut and toss in the cherry tomatoes and let them soften for a few minutes, releasing their natural juices. Then add the Taggiasca olives and cook briefly. Cut into cubes the feta cheese and add all the ingredients into a bowl. Mix all the ingredients together and garnish with fresh basil, olive oil and the chopped garlic. Cook the Pasta Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the capunti until al dente. This usually takes around 10, but always check the package or taste a piece before draining.  Drain the pasta and mix it inside the bowl with the rest of ingredients. PS. This type of pasta is best enjoyed cold. Pair it with a crisp white wine, such as a Vermentino or Falanghina. In the end, the beauty of the capunti pasta lies in its simplicity. With just some fresh Mediterranean ingredients, you can create a dish that is light yet deeply flavorful. Whether you’re passionate about traditional Italian food or simply looking for a new and quick recipe to try, this dish will become a favorite at your summer table.

  • Holiday gifts idea: gift a cooking experience with IMPASTIAMO

    Instead of wrapping up another pair of socks or a candle, IMPASTIAMO offers something more meaningful: an experience. Our newly launched gift cards  are now available and can be redeemed for any of IMPASTIAMO’s popular pop-up cooking classes held across the city of Los Angeles. A gift for everyone Looking for new gift ideas? The best part of the IMPASTIAMO gift card lies in its simplicity and flexibility. Buyers can select the amount they wish to gift, ensuring it fits their budget. There is no expiration date , so recipients can redeem their card whenever it best suits their schedule. Unlike many seasonal offers, these cards can be used for any pop-up class, any cuisine, at any time of year . Beyond the typical gift The IMPASTIAMO gift cards are designed to gift an experience. Every class is led by authentic chefs who showcase both their craft and their culture. Venues vary from intimate kitchens to creative spaces across LA, making each event unique. Participants learn step-by-step recipes and techniques, and every session ends by sharing a meal together. The result is not just cooking skills, but a memory made around the table. Perfect for families, friends, and teams The Gift Cards are perfect for everyone. Families can use them for a fun night out, friends can turn them into a hands-on gathering, and companies can purchase them for team-building experiences or simply gifts for employees .  For gift-givers, it offers a chance to present something that doesn’t gather dust on a shelf but instead sparks joy, conversation, and even a new hobby. How to purchase IMPASTIAMO gift cards are now available online on our website. Choose the amount, add a personal touch, and send instantly.

  • Diwali in Los Angeles: where to celebrate the Festival of Lights

    In 2025, Diwali will fall around October 18–22 , and Los Angeles will light up with community events, temple ceremonies, and cultural festivals that honor this timeless tradition. Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is one of the most radiant celebrations of the year. Originating in India and now celebrated across the world, Diwali (or Deepavali) marks the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. Homes glow with diyas (oil lamps), temples resound with chants, and families come together to share sweets, prayers, and laughter. What Diwali means The word Diwali  comes from the Sanskrit Deepavali , meaning “row of lights.” Across Hindu, Sikh, and Jain traditions, it celebrates spiritual victory, prosperity, and renewal. Many devotees perform Lakshmi Puja , praying to the goddess of wealth and fortune, and decorate their homes with rangoli  (colorful floor art), candles, and fairy lights. But Diwali is more than just a festival, it’s an invitation to pause, reflect, and begin anew. Where to celebrate Diwali in Los Angeles Los Angeles, with its diverse and thriving South Asian community, offers plenty of ways to experience Diwali, whether you want to join a traditional puja, attend a street fair, or simply enjoy the food and music. 1. BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir A must-visit for anyone seeking a traditional celebration. This stunning temple hosts a multi-day Diwali and Annakut festival  with prayers, lights, music, and an extraordinary vegetarian feast.  2. Little India  Just a short drive from downtown Los Angeles, Artesia’s Pioneer Boulevard  transforms into a glowing corridor of lights, shops, and restaurants during Diwali week. You can shop for sarees, jewelry, sweets like laddu  and barfi , and join the local street celebrations. 3. Malibu Hindu Temple Set in the hills near Calabasas, this temple offers peaceful Lakshmi and Ganesha pujas  followed by prasadam  (blessed food). It’s ideal if you’re looking for a spiritual experience away from the city noise. Remember to wear bright, traditional clothes like sarees, kurtas, or anything colorful. But also, don’t miss to bring a diya;  many temples invite guests to light their own lamps, so be sure to bring yours! Let us know where you’ll be celebrating Diwali. In the meantime Happy Diwali! From IMPASTIAMO.

  • Montrose Oktoberfest 2025: German traditions in LA

    October in Los Angeles means cooler evenings, golden sunsets, and one of the city’s most anticipated cultural events: Montrose Oktoberfest . This annual celebration brings the spirit of Bavaria to Southern California, offering locals and visitors the chance to experience German traditions without leaving LA. With beer gardens, live music, authentic food, and family-friendly entertainment, it’s the perfect way to welcome fall. Oktoberfest 2025 What Is Oktoberfest? The original Oktoberfest traces its roots back to Munich, Germany, in 1810, when the city celebrated the wedding of Crown Prince Ludwig with days of feasting, dancing, and beer. Over two centuries later, the tradition has grown into one of the world’s largest festivals, attracting millions of visitors each year. Today, Oktoberfest is celebrated across the globe, and Los Angeles proudly hosts its own version in Montrose, capturing the essence of Bavarian culture while adding a SoCal twist. Dates, Location, and Tickets Montrose Oktoberfest 2025  will take place on Saturday, October 4, 2025 , in the heart of the Montrose Shopping Park in Glendale. The event runs from morning until late evening, transforming Honolulu Avenue into a festive hub of music, food, and fun. Entry is typically free for children under 12 , while general admission tickets for adults range from $10–$15 at the gate . Families looking to save can purchase pre-sale tickets online  for a small discount, often around $8–$12 . A portion of the proceeds goes to local community projects, so every ticket supports a good cause. Dinner Open Air At the heart of Oktoberfest is the food and drink. Visitors can indulge in authentic German fare  such as bratwurst, schnitzel, sauerkraut, and giant Bavarian pretzels. Sweet tooths won’t be left behind, with apple strudel and German chocolate cake available from local vendors. Pair it all with a frothy pint of imported German beer or seasonal craft brews from California breweries. Beyond food, Montrose Oktoberfest features rows of local vendors selling crafts, souvenirs, and festive gear. Expect to find handmade jewelry, Oktoberfest mugs, hats, and themed merchandise , perfect for remembering your day. Entertainment and Activities Montrose Oktoberfest isn’t just about food and beer, it’s an all-day experience. Visitors can enjoy live oompah bands , traditional dance performances, and family-friendly contests. Kids will love the carnival rides and game booths, while adults can test their strength in stein-holding competitions or join in on the costume parade. For those seeking a more relaxed vibe, the beer garden offers the perfect spot to unwind with friends while enjoying live music. With activities tailored to all ages, Montrose Oktoberfest successfully combines tradition with community spirit. Tips for Visiting Arrive early : the event gets crowded by midday, and early birds snag the best seating. Bring cash : while many vendors accept cards, cash lines often move faster. Plan your ride : parking in the area is limited, so consider carpooling or using rideshare apps.

  • IMPASTIAMO meets Angelo Mirabito: discovering life’s simple pleasures in Stromboli

    When our IMPASTIAMO team decided to gather for a teambuilding trip, we knew it had to be somewhere special. We packed our bags and from Los Angeles we crossed the ocean to Stromboli, a vulcanic island in southern Italy.   From the very first step off the ferry in Vulcano, we were greeted by the island’s signature smell of sulfur. It might surprise you at first, but soon it becomes part of the atmosphere, just like the black volcanic sand, the steaming fumaroles, and the quiet beauty that exists nowhere else in the world. Our journey then brought us to Stromboli, famously captured by Roberto Rossellini in the film Stromboli, Land of God , starring Ingrid Bergman. Here, time literally slows down. Stromboli is still a fishing village at heart. Cars are almost nonexistent, replaced by small electric golf carts that cover just a handful of routes. The real star of the island is the Volcano itself, alive and powerful, throwing sparks of lava, a constant reminder of nature’s strength (it feels like stepping into a page of German Romanticism, where beauty and danger coexist). But Stromboli is not only about its volcano. It is also about its people, and for us, that person was Angelo Mirabito. Angelo is the heart behind the well-known restaurant Il Malandrino, but more than that, he is a man whose life is deeply tied to the island. With a bright, genuine smile, he welcomed us as though we were old friends. He told us his story: how he once left Stromboli to work as a builder in Modena for over a decade, only to return after his father’s passing. Since then, he has dedicated his days to his land, his restaurant, and his people. Angelo didn’t just tell us about his life, he shared it with us. He took us to his grove of olive trees, teaching us how to pick the olives that would later be preserved in brine. It’s a simple recipe of water, salt, garlic, and chili pepper, yet in his hands it felt like part of an ancient ritual, a way of connecting to the land. Later that afternoon, Angelo, together with Bartolo and his son Antonino, invited us on his boat. We sailed out toward Strombolicchio and jumped into the deep blue water just as the sun was setting. The thrill of diving in at that golden hour is something none of us will forget. As evening fell, the day turned into something even more memorable. Angelo showed us how to fish for squid, and by nightfall we had caught enough for a meal. Still inside the boat, he cooked pasta for us with the squid we had caught and the tomatoes from his own garden. It wasn’t just dinner: it was a celebration of simplicity, of authenticity, of being present in the moment. In Stromboli, with Angelo as our guide, we learned that true richness is not found in what is grand or fast-paced, but in the small things: the taste of fresh tomatoes, the rhythm of the sea, the smile of someone who has given his life to his island. Our teambuilding trip reminded us not only of the joy of working together, but also of the value of slowing down, appreciating where you are, and remembering that life’s beauty often lies in the most ordinary moments.

  • How are Mid-Autumn Festival Traditions celebrated in 2025?

    Every year, when the moon is at its brightest in early autumn, millions of people across Asia and beyond come together to celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival . Origins of the Mid-Autumn Festival Also known as the Moon Festival , the Mid Autumn Festival is one of the most important cultural celebrations in China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Vietnam, Singapore, and Malaysia , and it is increasingly marked in major cities worldwide, from London’s Chinatown to Los Angeles and New York . The festival dates back more than 3,000 years, rooted in ancient harvest rituals and legends. The most famous is the story of Chang’e, the Moon Goddess , who is believed to reside on the moon with her jade rabbit. Families honor these legends by gathering under the full moon, a symbol of reunion, prosperity, and harmony. Traditional Foods: Mooncakes  Mooncakes Food plays a central role in the Mid-Autumn Festival. The most iconic treat is the mooncake , a round pastry symbolizing completeness and unity. Traditional Cantonese mooncakes are filled with lotus seed paste and salted egg yolk, while modern versions feature chocolate, matcha, ice cream, and even savory fillings. In Vietnam, people enjoy bánh trung thu , which come in baked and sticky-rice varieties. In Malaysia and Singapore, snow skin mooncakes are popular for their soft, mochi-like texture. Seasonal fruits such as pomelos are also eaten, as they are believed to bring family luck and togetherness. Customs and Celebrations Lantern Tradition The lantern tradition  is one of the most recognizable features of the Mid-Autumn Festival. Children carry brightly colored paper lanterns shaped like animals, fish, or stars, lighting up parks and streets. In places like Hong Kong’s Victoria Park , thousands of lanterns create breathtaking displays. Families gather outdoors for moon gazing , sharing tea and pastries, and expressing gratitude for abundance. In Vietnam, lion dances entertain children, while in Taiwan, barbecue gatherings have become a modern twist on the festival. Mid-Autumn Festival: house of traditions The Mid-Autumn Festival is more than food and lanterns, it is a powerful reminder of the importance of family unity and cultural heritage. Whether you are enjoying a traditional mooncake in Hong Kong, watching lion dances in Vietnam, or visiting Chinatown in London or Los Angeles , the Mid-Autumn Festival  offers a chance to reconnect with tradition and celebrate under the full moon.

  • What foods do Italians eat for breakfast?

    Caffè Espresso with chocolate powder Breakfast in Italy, known as "Colazione", is a simple and light event that prioritizes quality. Whether you want to learn more about the Italian Breakfast before a trip to Italy or just want to implement their culture into your everyday life, you’ve come to the right place. What are some regional breakfast specialties in Italy? Here are some regional variations in breakfast specialties in Italy: Rome: Maritozzi are sweet brioche buns that are filled with whipped cream. Naples & Amalfi Coast: Sfogliatella, a shell-shaped pastry that is filled with orange-scented ricotta, is flaky and perfectly sweet. Tuscany: Crunchy almond biscotti is a Tuscany favorite and is great to dip in coffee. Puglia: Pasticciotto is a shortcrust pastry that is filled with custard or ricotta. Served warm, this breakfast item is a great way to start your day. Sicily: Granita con brioche is a granita slushy paired with a soft brioche. A perfect balance, especially for hot days! Northern Italy (especially in the dolomites): This breakfast leans toward savory tastes, which might include porridge, cheese, yogurt, bread, and dried fruit. Here are some additional staples: Plain biscuits or simple cakes (such as ciambella) Bread with butter and jam  What is coffee culture? Coffee is an essential pairing with Italian breakfast foods, and here is what you need to know about coffee culture in Italy: Un Caffe: A quick shot of espresso to get your day started! This is the foundation of Italian coffee culture, meant to be drunk quickly standing at the bar. Cappuccino: This is a frothy breakfast favorite, typically consumed before 11 am. Latte macchiato or caffe latte: For a classic coffee and pastry combo! Note: if you only order a “latte” in Italy, you might just get a glass of milk. Another note: milk-based coffee is considered too heavy after breakfast! Caffe d’orzo: A barley-based drink that mimics coffee. Hot chocolate: A great option for kids, especially in winter! Coffee culture in Italy means that it is usually enjoyed at a bar, rather than taken to-go. Beyond breakfast, coffee is a social experience for many people: meeting with friends, splitting up the work day, or taking a quick break. Furthermore, coffee sizes are small and concentrated, focusing on simplicity rather than elaborate syrups or flavors.  Here are some regional traditions for coffee: Naples is famous for their strong espresso and paying it forward (paying in advance for someone else’s coffee!) Venice is known for historic cafes like Cafè Florian. Turin is known for "bicerin", which is a layered drink with espresso, chocolate, and cream. What should I know about breakfast etiquette and timing? Here is a summary of breakfast etiquette and timing for you: Italians eat breakfast early in the morning, typically ranging from the hours of 7-10 am. Breakfast is a light meal, and often done quickly at home or at the bar. Coffee is nearly always espresso-based. Pastries are a popular breakfast item in Italy, and savory breakfast tastes are rarer in Italy. Coffee with milk is reserved for before 11 am! We hope you enjoy this Italian tradition in its simplicity!

  • Best Food Experiences to Try in South Korea

    D iscover the top food experiences to try in South Korea, from sizzling barbecue to traditional markets, for an authentic taste of the country’s cuisine. Depending on what region you are visiting, the Korean culinary experience can look entirely different and unique. Read on to find out the best places to visit in Busan, Seoul, and beyond! Korean Barbeque A true classic—and now popularized across the world, Korean BBQ is an interactive and social dining experience. Grilling the meat at your table, you can wrap it in lettuce along with garlic, ssamjang (spicy sauce), kimchi, and other banchan (side dishes). This is a communal experience that allows for lots of lovely conversations with the people you’re with. Here are some top meats to order at Korean BBQ : Samgyeopsal (pork belly) Galbi (marinated beef ribs) Chadolbaegi (thin-sliced beef brisket) Drinks are often paired with this meal! Soju Makgeolli (rice wine) Korean beers Traditional Korean Markets Gwangjang Market (Seoul) is famous for their bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes) and mayak gimbap. Jagalchi Market (Busan) is Korea’s largest seafood market. Tongin Market (Seoul) offers lunchbox cafes where you can pay with tokens. Some notable foods to eat at Korean markets: Tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) Odeng (fish cake skewers) Hotteok (sweet pancakes) Live octopus (sannakji) Be sure to bring cash—and come hungry! Street Food Here are our top picks for Korean street food: Tteokbokki with cheese Tornado potato skewers Korean corn dogs Grilled lobster tails or jumbo shrimp You can find these large street vendors in Seoul, particularly: Myeongdong Hongdae Dondaemun Night Market Convenience stores  If you’ve read our other article on convenience stores, you already know how much we love this budget-friendly option for snacks and quick meals. To reiterate, here are some must-tries: Triangle kimbap Instant noodles (using the hot water/microwave station) Dosirak lunchboxes Fried chicken  Wine and Dine For drinking and snacks, check out Korea’s small tent bars where locals go to unwind after work or to spend time with friends. Here are some popular drinks + snacks that go with them: Soju, makgeolli Spicy stir-fried octopus, Korean fried pancakes, fish cake soup These places can be found in many places in Seoul, and definitely near any universities. Chicken + Beer Korean fried chicken is known for a reason—with its crispy texture and delicious sauces, you’re guaranteed a good time. Korean fried chicken is paired with cold beer, and can make for a perfect night in or out. Here are some popular chains for fried chicken in Korea: BHC bb.q Chicken Kyochon Half-half orders are a great option to try multiple flavors! (Plus: get to try some different spice levels for people with different spice tolerances). We hope you enjoy all these culinary experiences and make the most of your next trip to Korea!

  • 5 Things to do in LA this October 2025

    Los Angeles in October is one of the most exciting times of the year. The city cools down just enough to enjoy outdoor festivals, spooky attractions, and cultural events, while still keeping that famous California sunshine. Whether you’re a local looking for weekend plans or visiting LA for the first time, here are 5 things to do in Los Angeles in October 2025. A Neapolitan Pizza Making Class with IMPASTIAMO Neapolitan Pizza Making Class If you love authentic Italian food, don’t miss our Neapolitan Pizza Making Class  on October 4th, 2025  from 5:00 PM – 7:30 PM PDT. This 2.5h hands-on class takes place in Inglewood, CA and is designed for food lovers of all levels. You’ll learn how to knead, stretch, and top your pizza like a true Italian, guided by Chef Peppe Miele. Even better, you’ll get to enjoy your creation fresh from the oven. Vegan options are available. Plus, enjoy a welcome drink to kick things off. Tickets are starting from $139 per person , making it a perfect activity for friends, couples, or anyone looking for a fun culinary experience.  Cinespia There’s nothing quite like a movie night at Cinespia  in Hollywood. Held at the iconic Hollywood Forever Cemetery, Cinespia transforms classic film screenings into unforgettable experiences. Guests bring blankets, picnic baskets, and friends to enjoy cult favorites and timeless movies projected on a giant outdoor screen. In October, the lineup often features Halloween classics, so it’s the perfect way to get into the spooky spirit while surrounded by LA’s creative community. From Oct. 11th until Oct. 31st, you’ll find the following projections: On Oct. 11th, 2025: The Craft On Oct. 4th, 2025: The Rocky Horror Picture Show: 55th Anniversary On Oct. 18th : Paranorman On Oct. 25th : A Nightmare on Elm Street On Oct. 31st: Scream halloween party Arrive early to grab a good spot and snap some photos against the historic Hollywood backdrop. Price tickets starts from $29.99 Knott's Scary Farm Looking for thrills? Knott’s Scary Farm in Buena Park is Southern California’s largest Halloween event. By night, the beloved Knott’s Berry Farm amusement park transforms into a haunted playground with mazes, scare zones, and terrifying live shows. Running on select nights throughout October, Knott’s Scary Farm attracts horror fans from all over the country. Whether you love haunted houses, creepy characters, or just the adrenaline of a good scare, this is the ultimate Halloween attraction near LA. This year you’ll find two new entries: Mary, the haunting of worth home The Zoo It’s not recommended for Children under 13. Price tickets starts from $64 for a single night ticket. Smorgarburg LA Every Sunday in October 2025, Smorgasburg LA  transforms the ROW DTLA into a foodie paradise. This weekly outdoor market features over 60 local vendors offering everything from global street food to artisanal desserts and craft drinks. Beyond food, you’ll also find unique pop-up shops, live music, and a lively community vibe that makes it one of LA’s favorite weekend hangouts. Whether you’re craving authentic tacos, trendy desserts, or something entirely new, Smorgasburg is the perfect Sunday plan for food lovers exploring Los Angeles this fall. Entry is free , and guests only pay for what they eat or buy, with most dishes priced between $7–$15 . Mr. Bones Pumpkin Patch For a more family-friendly autumn experience, head to Mr. Bones Pumpkin Patch  in Culver City that opens on Oct. 4th. Known for its whimsical pumpkin displays and photo-ready installations, it’s a go-to destination for families and couples. Kids can enjoy pony rides, a straw maze, and face painting, while adults can shop for the perfect pumpkin or sip seasonal drinks. With its festive atmosphere, Mr. Bones offers the quintessential LA fall experience, without ever leaving the city. Starting price from $15.

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