Each month we profile a different Canadian Food Blogger who is part of the FBC community. This month, we meet Nicole, who loves exploring new places, tasting different cuisines, and sharing these experiences with her readers.

Envy Eats Logo

Name: Nicole Vicentic

Blog name: @envy_eats

Where were you born? I was born in Hamilton, Ontario.

Where are you living now? I am currently living in Hamilton, Ontario.

Why did you start your blog?

I started my blog out of my love for food and travel. Food is more than just sustenance; it is a profound connection to our souls, a bridge to our past, and a celebration of our culture. Each fresh ingredient, every cherished recipe, takes us on a nostalgic journey back to our roots, evoking memories of family gatherings, laughter, and love. Cooking is an art that stirs an excitement deep within us, creating an urge to share these experiences with others. When we gather around a table with good food and good people, we craft moments that linger in our hearts, reminding us that the essence of life is beautifully intertwined with the flavors and aromas that define our journey. Good food and great company ensure that every shared meal is a cherished memory, an experience that binds us together in joy and warmth.

How did you decide on your blog name? A friend suggested the name, and I thought it was a clever idea. My initials sound like “envy,” and combined with “eats,” it means you’ll be envious of my culinary adventures. Genius, right?

What do you blog about?

My blog is a blend of my passions: food, travel, and the beautiful stories behind them. I love exploring new places, tasting different cuisines, and sharing these experiences with my readers.

Is your blog your business, your hobby or something in between?

My blog is a hobby that allows me to express myself. I’ve had paid opportunities to showcase restaurants and products, but it’s not something I rely on for a living.

What post on your blog most encapsulates you and why?

Travel photos of a girl in France.

Great question, but a tricky one! The first post that comes to mind is my reel from Marseille, France, specifically from the enchanting Cours Julien in February 2023. The story behind it is quite special. Cours Julien was on my must-see list, but that evening, the sunset was simply breathtaking. (By the way, I have an immense love for sunsets, starry nights, and the moon—I even got a tattoo in Paris to symbolize it.) As I was exploring the city alone, my cousin was engrossed in a thrilling football match between Marseille and PSG (I know, no ticket for me, and Messi was playing, no less—sigh).

Following the sun’s golden rays, I found myself drawn closer to the vibrant colors of the stairs that Cours Julien is famous for. When I reached the bridge, I realized the light had led me exactly where I wanted to be, gifting me the most beautiful sunset I had ever witnessed. Being an emotional person, I had a profound moment of gratitude sitting on those stairs. It was a time of personal challenges for me, having lived abroad for two years, and in that instant, all my worries melted away. It felt like a weight had been lifted from my shoulders. It's amazing how the universe guides you to where you need to be. That reel ended up going viral, which was the cherry on top of an unforgettable experience.

Which post do you wish received more love and why?

A collage of travel photos in Budapest: sea,

I wish my travel videos received more love because they showcase my passion for exploring and discovering new cultures. Two of my favorites are from Budapest and Crete.

Which post’s success surprised you and why?

A collage of travel photos: croissants, street.

My reel from Ljubljana, where I tried the viral “circle croissants” with pistachio, went viral on TikTok. I was also surprised by an opportunity with ‘Open Kitchen/Odprta Kuhna’ and Mini Slovenia! Odprta kuhna, Slovenia's beloved gourmet food market since 2013, has become a vibrant staple of Ljubljana, showcasing top eateries from across the country. Don't miss this colorful culinary experience every sunny Friday at Pogačarjev Square! They gave me the Mini Countryman for a few days to go explore various cities in Slovenia, and then stop at a small town to join the event. We collected food from various restaurants and donated it to the local charity. It was nice to be noticed, especially when you just freshly moved to a new country alone. Grateful for them, forever remembering this Eva!

What’s your biggest challenge as a blogger?

My biggest challenge is managing my social battery. As a marketing manager, my creative energy depletes quickly, making it hard to maintain a consistent blogging routine.

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned as a blogger?

The biggest lesson I’ve learned is to stay true to myself and not compare my journey to others. It’s easy to get lost and feel defeated if you’re constantly looking at what others are doing.

What has been your biggest success as a blogger so far?

My biggest success has been building a loyal and trusting community. My followers appreciate my authenticity, and I am proud to have built a space where people feel connected and valued.

Share a couple of your favourite food blogs to read. Why do you like them?
● @the_pstaqueen:** Nadia’s energy is contagious, and her love for Italian cuisine
resonates with me deeply.
@kototamo:** Sandra’s traditional Balkan recipes bring back memories of home and
family.
@marys_kouzina:** Mary’s Greek recipes, often featuring her grandmother, are
heartwarming and delicious.

What are you working on next for your blog?

I am focusing on more travel and personal posts, offering recommendations on places to visit, stay, and eat. I aim to help my followers experience destinations as a local would.

What else should we know about you that may or not be in your “About Me” page?

Adidas Originals is my dream company to work for. Their blend of storytelling, iconic branding, and timeless fashion is something I deeply admire. Being part of a team that shapes trends and inspires people would be a dream come true for me.

What makes your blog unique? My transparency and the quality of my content make my blog unique. I don’t promote things I don’t believe in, and I always receive compliments on my eye for photography and videography. My natural curiosity drives me to create engaging and authentic content.

How do you cultivate a sense of community around your blog?

​​I cultivate a sense of community by being genuine and engaging with my followers. I share personal stories and experiences, making my readers feel connected and valued. This authenticity fosters a loyal and interactive community.

What part of the FBC site do you find most useful? I find the restaurant tab most useful as it helps me explore new cities and discover great food spots, guided by recommendations from others.

Follow Envy Eats on Social Media

Instagram - Tik Tok

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