We eat first.
Then we write.

The Curated is an honest, opinionated guide to the best of every city we cover. No paid placements. No "sponsored picks." We pay for our own meals and pick our own favorites.

We started this because most "Best 10 X in Y" lists online are recycled, paid-for, or written by someone who never actually visited. We wanted something better — and figured a few thousand other people did too.

How we work

Every guide starts with a long list of candidates. We visit, we eat, we observe. Then we cut ruthlessly. A "Best 12" list means we considered 30-50 places. If a spot doesn't make the cut, it doesn't make the list — even if it's famous.

Who's behind this

Right now, just one writer based in the worlds of food and travel with a notebook and a permanent stomach ache. Reach out if you want to write for us — we're picky but we're hiring.