Davidsbeenhere — Food Creator on YouTube
@Davidsbeenhere — New York, United States — 1.4M subscribers
I travel to the corners of the world hunting the best food each place has to offer, and I bring you along for every bite, every story, and every “wait… people eat this?” moment. Hey, I’m David. I’m from the US, but my stomach lives everywhere. For 15+ years I’ve eaten through 100+ countries on 6 continents, chasing street-food legends, family-run holes-in-the-wall, and markets that feel like a friendly brawl. DavidsBeenHere is food-first travel with a point of view: don’t just taste it, learn the why, culture, history, and the people behind the plate. If it’s delicious, unfamiliar, or comes with a story, I’m in. If it’s a tourist trap with a ring light, I’m out. Subscribe and come get lost with me, one dish at a time. For business inquiries: [email protected]
Restaurant Reviews by Davidsbeenhere
Iraqi Fish Restaurant in Baghdad
Baghdad, Iraq — Iraqi
The reviewer experiences maz goof, Iraq's national dish of fresh carp roasted vertically over an open fire in Baghdad. The fish is simply seasoned with olive oil, salt, and sometimes tamarind, served with fresh basil, herbs, and crispy samoon flatbread. The reviewer is impressed by the smoky, juicy, and completely unique flavor achieved through traditional slow-cooking methods.
Sue Brothers and Lin Kang
New Amsterdam, Guyana — Chinese (Cantonese)
The reviewer visits New Amsterdam, Guyana to explore the legendary brown bag fried rice at Chinese restaurants Sue Brothers and Lin Kang. The fried rice, made with fresh vegetables, meat, and served in a paper bag with pepper sauce, is praised for its authentic Cantonese preparation and unique flavor. The reviewer loves the experience and the cultural fusion of Chinese-Guyanese cuisine.
Burn's and Sons
Georgetown, Guyana — Guyanese
The reviewer visited Burn's and Sons just outside Georgetown, Guyana, and tried exotic local dishes including capybara, curried iguana, and bitter melon. Each dish offered unique flavors and textures, with the capybara standing out for its sweet and tender cassareep preparation. The experience was described as a totally unforgettable adventure into authentic Guyanese cuisine.
Mombasa Street Food
Mombasa, Kenya — Kenyan street food, Indian, Swahili
A vibrant exploration of Mombasa's underrated street food scene featuring Indian-influenced and Swahili dishes. The reviewer highlights exceptional standouts like mutton biryani, crispy samosas, and the unique Swahili pizza, praising the bold flavors and authentic food culture throughout.
El Turko
Miami, Allapattah, United States — Turkish
El Turko serves exceptional Turkish breakfast and traditional cuisine in Miami's Allapattah neighborhood, with award-winning dishes like perfectly crafted manti, tender kebabs, and decadent kunefe. The restaurant, owned by Chef Gokan from Adana, has won four awards in four years and is famous for serving authentic Turkish breakfast all day long, featuring high-quality ingredients prepared with traditional methods.
Doya by Chef Erhan Costen
Istanbul, Turkey — Turkish
Doya by Chef Erhan Costen is celebrated as one of the best Turkish restaurants in the world, showcasing innovative takes on traditional Turkish cuisine. The reviewer highlights standout dishes including woodfired kebabs, grilled octopus, shrimp saganaki, and the chef's signature short rib baklava, praising the quality and creativity throughout the meal.
Fatboy Doubles
Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago — Caribbean/Trinidadian Street Food
Fatboy Doubles is home to Trinidad's famous ham and cheese doubles, a gourmet twist on the traditional chickpea-based street food. The reviewer praised the creative fusion approach, high-quality ingredients like New Zealand cheese, and unique flavor profile, rating it 8 out of 10 for its innovative take on a classic Caribbean dish.
Curry Crafts
Paramaribo, Suriname — Surinamese, Caribbean, Indian-influenced
The reviewer visits Curry Crafts in Paramaribo to experience authentic Surinamese street food, specifically fresh masala crab. The restaurant, run by Michelle and her cook sister Visha, sources massive crabs daily from local swamps and prepares them with homemade masala spices that create unforgettable flavor. The reviewer raves about the masala crab, shrimp, and duck dishes, calling them mind-blowing and among the best food in the world.
Fernandez Bakery
Paramaribo, Suriname — Dutch-Surinamese Fusion
The reviewer visits Fernandez Bakery in Paramaribo to try classic Dutch-Surinamese street food. The oliebol is praised for its fluffy texture and creamy sugar filling, while the puffer jets showcase a creative fusion twist with savory toppings of salted meat and local fish. The bakery represents authentic Surinamese-Dutch culinary heritage.
Walk and Lime
Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago — Trini Chinese Fusion
The reviewer visits Walk and Lime to experience Trini Chinese fusion cuisine, featuring some of the spiciest noodles ever made with scorpion pepper and scotch bonnet. The dishes deliver intense heat and bold flavors, with the spicy noodles rating 10/10 on the spice scale and the pepper shrimp at 9/10, showcasing a remarkable blend of Chinese cooking techniques with Caribbean heat and soul.
1762
Basseterre, Saint Kitts and Nevis — Caribbean
1762 is a luxury restaurant situated atop Brimstone Hill Fortress offering Caribbean cuisine with stunning panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea, islands, and rainforest. The reviewer praised the saltfish flatbread and crab cakes for their authentic flavors and quality ingredients, particularly enjoying the locally-sourced seafood prepared with traditional techniques.
Esme Sunrise Snack and Bar
Nevis, Saint Kitts and Nevis — Caribbean
Esme Sunrise Snack and Bar is a rustic oceanside establishment offering traditional Nevis breakfast featuring Johnny cake and saltfish. The Johnny cake has a soft, savory donut-like quality while the saltfish is moist and well-seasoned with peppers and tomato paste. The main draw is the spectacular Atlantic Ocean view where you can see neighboring islands on clear days.
El Turco
Miami, United States — Turkish
The reviewer visits El Turco in Miami's Design District to experience authentic Turkish breakfast, which is served as a full spread rather than a single plate. They sample numerous traditional dishes including burek, manti, Izmir kofte, kunefe, and baklava, all of which they find exceptional. The overall experience is highly positive and approved as authentic Turkish cuisine.
Patrick's Home Studio Restaurant
Paramaribo, Suriname — South Asian, Brazilian, Caribbean Fusion
David visited Patrick's home studio restaurant in Suriname for an exclusive dinner featuring world cuisine inspired dishes. The standout item was the masala ducks doubles, which multiple guests rated as the best they've had even compared to versions in Trinidad, Jamaica, UK, and New York. The meal featured South Asian inspired soups, Brazilian picana with beans and farova, and creative dishes like fa with fried noodles, all served in an intimate setting.
Alfie's Blackfish Stand
Barley, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines — Caribbean, Saint Vincentian traditional
The reviewer visited Alfie's blackfish stand in Barley, the blackfish capital of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, to try pilot whale prepared as a traditional local stew. The blackfish was served with bread fruit, codfish, pilow rice and peas, and fresh vegetables in a flavorful, salty broth that the reviewer found delicious and comparable to calamari in texture. This is a highly sought-after local delicacy that sells out daily before 11 AM, particularly on cruise ship days.
La Pizzeria
Kingston, Jamaica — Italian-Jamaican Fusion Pizza
La Pizzeria in Devon House, Kingston, is an Italian-Jamaican fusion pizzeria run by Max, an Italian Jamaican pizza master who blends traditional Italian pizza-making techniques with Jamaican flavors and ingredients. The standout pizzas like Aki and Callaloo showcase bold, perfectly balanced flavors with expertly fermented dough and a crispy-yet-soft crust from a unique forno oven. This is a must-visit destination that represents authentic culinary fusion rather than a passing trend.
Jamal's Doubles Stand
Kingstown, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines — Caribbean/Trinidadian Street Food
A visit to Jamal's doubles stand in Kingstown revealed an authentic taste of Trinidad in St. Vincent. The vendor, a Trinidadian with roots on the island, creates exceptional doubles that sell out by 8:30 AM, featuring perfectly cooked chickpeas, shadow benny sauce, golden apple, and kuchilla. The reviewer praised both the doubles and cheese pie as reminiscent of the original Trinidad experience while adapted to local preferences.
Bushbar
Vermont, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines — Plant-based Caribbean (Ital)
Bushbar is a wellness retreat in Vermont offering plant-based ital food in a lush garden setting run by owner Zen. The reviewer enjoyed the fresh, organic ingredients grown on-site, homemade beverages, and the holistic experience combining food, art therapy, and nature. The overall experience was highly positive with everything prepared simply and naturally.
Spice Mill
St. Kitts, Saint Kitts and Nevis — Caribbean, Indian fusion
Spice Mill is an eclectic Caribbean restaurant with influence from Trinidad, Jamaica, and India, located on a pristine beachfront with stunning views of Nevis Peak. The restaurant features an Indian chef who creates authentic curries and fresh grilled seafood, complemented by the owner's homemade sorrel-based rum spirits. The experience combines exceptional food, breathtaking natural scenery, and warm hospitality that captures the essence of Caribbean island living.
Jack's Beach Bar
Bequia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines — Caribbean, Latin American fusion, Seafood
Jack's Beach Bar on Princess Margaret Beach in Bequia offers exceptional Caribbean cuisine with a creative Latin fusion. The chef prepares fresh seafood daily including ceviche, coconut shrimp, and unique jerk chicken arepas, all beautifully plated and showcasing local ingredients. The stunning oceanfront setting at sunset makes this a must-visit destination.
Barley St. Vincent
St. Vincent, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines — Caribbean, Local/Traditional
The reviewer visits Barley St. Vincent to experience blackfish (pilot whale), a traditional local delicacy prepared in two ways: stewed and crispy skin. Despite the unconventional nature of the protein, the reviewer appreciates the cultural significance and unique flavors, describing the meat as chewy like calamari and the skin as meaty and gelatinous like jerky.
New Amsterdam Street Food Vendor
New Amsterdam, Guyana — Caribbean Chinese Fusion
A visit to an authentic Guyanese Chinese street food vendor in New Amsterdam serving traditional fried rice in brown paper bags. The reviewer praised the fresh ingredients, bold seasoning, and unique Caribbean-Chinese fusion flavors that come through in this no-frills street food preparation.
1762° at Brimstone Hill
Basseterre, Saint Kitts and Nevis — Caribbean
David explores St. Kitts as an underrated Caribbean food destination, visiting multiple establishments from 1762° at Brimstone Hill to beachside bars. He samples diverse dishes including saltfish flatbread, fried fish, curry goat roti, jerk chicken, and fresh seafood, finding the island's food scene to be exceptional with incredible views.
Dutchies Gourmet Sausages
Miami, United States — South African
The reviewer explores South African cuisine at Dutchies Gourmet Sausages in Miami, featuring iconic dishes like bunny chow, gatsby, and traditional bilong. The establishment showcases authentic South African food preparation with a strong Dutch and Indian influence, complemented by South African wines and beers. The reviewer is impressed by the unique flavor combinations and quality of traditional South African offerings.
Nevis Four Seasons
Nevis, Saint Kitts and Nevis — Caribbean
A Michelin star Caribbean dining experience at Nevis Four Seasons featuring the national dish of saltfish with Johnny cakes and creole tomato sauce. The reviewer was impressed by Chef Xavier's creative preparation, which cleverly replicates eggs benedict style while highlighting the tender saltfish and sweet plantain notes. The dish delivered an authentic Caribbean culinary experience that evoked the beauty of island dining.
Fred's Bar and Restaurant
Bridgetown, Barbados — Barbadian
Fred's Bar and Restaurant in Bridgetown's market strip serves authentic Barbadian cuisine with exceptional fresh seafood. The cuckoo with okra and cornmeal paired with perfectly cooked flying fish, red herring, and saltfish gravies creates a truly memorable meal at incredibly affordable prices, with Friday nights featuring live music and a lively party atmosphere.
World's Finest Cheese House
Miami, United States — American (Hot Dogs)
The reviewer samples three hot dogs ranging from $1 to $100, with the $100 hot dog from World's Finest Cheese House being the most delicious despite its premium price. This gourmet creation features a croissant bun, Wagyu beef, mascarpone sauce, caviar, and edible gold flakes that create an exceptional flavor experience.
Chèvre Miami
Miami, United States — Fast Casual / Gourmet Hot Dogs
The reviewer visited Chèvre Miami to try their viral luxury hot dogs, including the golden glizzy and gold digger, both priced at $100. Despite the extravagant presentation with caviar and gold flakes, the reviewer was impressed by the high-quality ingredients and declared them the best hot dogs they've ever had.
KKO Cacao Beach
Marigot, Saint Martin — French Creole
KKO Cacao Beach offers an exceptional French Creole dining experience on Orient Bay's stunning beach, where the reviewer enjoyed beautifully presented grilled octopus with rich, smoky sauces and fresh French bread. The restaurant masterfully blends southern French culinary techniques with Caribbean ingredients and vibes, creating what the reviewer described as a Michelin-star level experience in a casual beachfront setting.
Camila's
Miami, United States — Basque Cheesecake / Dessert
Camila's is Miami's first Basque cheesecake shop dedicated entirely to this Spanish dessert art form, founded as a heartfelt tribute to Claudia's daughter Camila. The reviewer tried over eight different flavors and a specialty ube milkshake, praising them as some of the best bass cheesecakes they've ever had with incredible taste and texture.
Zest
Sint Maarten, Saint Martin — French bakery and crepes
Zest is a French bakery and restaurant on the Dutch side of Sint Maarten owned by Dominic from Montreal, serving fresh pastries and crepes made daily with real butter and no artificial ingredients. The reviewer praised the chocolate croissants as some of the best he has ever had, along with perfectly crafted savory and sweet crepes that taste like authentic French cuisine. The experience showcases how Sint Maarten offers European quality food in a Caribbean setting.
Harriet's
Key West, United States — American Desserts
The reviewer visited multiple key lime pie spots in Key West, with Harriet's being the standout favorite. The key lime muffin received a perfect 10 out of 10 rating, featuring a fluffy texture, buttery crust, and exceptional lime flavor that the reviewer called the best key lime pie on earth.
Captain's Rib Shack
St. Martin, Sint Maarten — Caribbean barbecue
Captain's Rib Shack is one of St. Martin's famous lolo spots serving smoky barbecue wings and sweet spicy jerk wings with authentic Caribbean flavor. The reviewer thoroughly enjoyed the wings, expressing that they could have eaten many more.
Tulio
Coral Gables, United States — Italian
Tulio in Coral Gables is an exceptional Italian restaurant carrying over 40 years of family tradition and Venetian heritage. The reviewer experienced beautifully crafted dishes including tender octopus, perfectly executed pastas, and memorable mains like branzino and veal Milanese, all complemented by an impressive wine selection. Every detail reflected intentional preparation and genuine Italian hospitality across multiple generations.
Dutch Blonde
Philipsburg, Sint Maarten — Dutch/Pancakes
Dutch Blonde is Sint Maarten's only pancake house, located on the boardwalk in Philipsburg with stunning views of cruise ships and the island of Saba. The reviewer enjoyed their mullet pancakes featuring banana, walnut, and honey, paired with the house-brewed Dutch blonde beer. The combination of excellent food, exceptional location, and unique concept makes it a must-visit spot on the island.
Tasty Takeout
Saba, Netherlands — Caribbean, Dutch-Caribbean Fusion, Seafood
Tasty Takeout in Saba offers authentic Caribbean cuisine centered around fresh, locally caught seafood and creative Dutch-Caribbean fusion dishes. The highlight was the perfectly prepared red snapper from the Saba Bank paired with traditional sides, complemented by an inventive capsulon featuring layered garlic sauce, fries, and chicken. Owner Rubia creates memorable meals with genuine warmth and care.
Princess Delight
St. Eustatius, Netherlands — Caribbean Soul Food
Princess Delight serves authentic St. Eustatius soul food with standout dishes including incredibly tender stewed goat meat from local island sources, honey-glazed ribs, and cook-up rice. The owner, a born-and-raised local from a large island family, creates flavorful dishes that showcase the island's unique culinary traditions and fresh local ingredients.
Blue Restaurant
Houston, United States — Ethiopian
Davidsbeenhere visits Blue Restaurant in Houston for his first Ethiopian food experience, where he learns to make injera bread from scratch and explores traditional dishes with Chef Z. The restaurant offers authentic Ethiopian cuisine with standout items like doro wot, kitfo, and sambusas, paired with traditional coffee roasting and honey wine, creating an immersive cultural dining experience.
Dominic Ansil Bakery
New York, United States — French Pastry, Bakery
The reviewer flew to New York to try Dominic Ansil's famous Crona, a doughnut-croissant fusion available in rotating monthly flavors. The February white peach and lychee version and the DKA croissant both exceeded expectations with their exceptional texture and flavor. Both items were deemed worth the hype.
Street Food Tour - Saigon
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam — Vietnamese Street Food
The reviewer explores multiple iconic Saigon street food spots, tasting everything from fresh spring rolls and sticky rice noodles to crispy rice dishes and sticky rice desserts. Despite the intense heat and packed crowds, each vendor demonstrates incredible skill and passion for their craft, serving fresh, affordable, and delicious Vietnamese street food.