If you're familiar with the Estonian dining scene, then you'll know 180° by Matthias Diether. Estonia's first Two Michelin Star restaurant, it leads the way not just in the country, but in the whole of the region, being the only restaurant within the Baltic Countries to hold this distinction. Matthias was born in Germany but, since January 2016, it's Estonia that he has called his home. After spending two years working at Pädaste Manor on Muhu Island, he moved to Port Noblessner on the edge of Tallinn, and for the last six years he has witnessed this former imperial Russian shipyard being reborn as the one of the city's most appealing districts.
Sitting just a short walk from the Old Town and Kalamaja, next to the Seaplane Harbour, Port Noblessner is characterised by a mix of the old and the new. Some of its characterful industrial buildings remain, but a chic regeneration means they now sit beside sleek modern properties, creating a beautiful seafront quarter filled with restaurants, art galleries and the Iglupark, where you can enjoy both a sauna and a swim with sea views.
Matthias was among the first to settle here, when the new buildings and businesses were still opening up, and he loves to sit and watch the comings-and-goings of the area as it continues to develop. We joined Matthias behind the scenes at his restaurant, as he showed us around and took us on a tour of the local area.
Christmas in Lithuania, From Vilnius to Kaunas
A magical Winter Wonderland for both young and old, Lithuania's Christmas Markets are a must this festive season.