If you are the type of traveler who thinks with their stomach, discovering a new place means eating your way through a destination. Food is a portal to the story of any place, its history and traditions, or even, in some cases, its future. From enjoying street food to lunching in some of the best Michelin-starred restaurants, here are ten places that serve as home points for a number of those downright sublime and lifelong mouth-watefrit culinary trips.
1. From Tokyo, With Love: A Sushi Paradise
When it comes to sushi, Tokyo stands as this internationally renowned location the world over that everyone hears about. The sushi in the city is king, with more Michelin-starred restaurants than any other place on earth. Sukiyabashi Jiro: One of the first sushi-ya to launch on a massive scale, having achieved notoriety in documentaries such as “Jiro Dreams of Sushi,” this still-springy great stalwart keeps extending singularly attentive service and award-winning debut tachie strolls snuggled away from Roppongi Hills amid Omotesando Hills. Tsukiji Outer Market is close to the former site of Tsukiji Fish Market, and features numerous stalls selling fresh sushi & sashimi from different shops and small eateries for a more casual experience.
2. Paris: The Heart of French Food
The French capital may be the beacon of French culinary quality. It is home to some of the best patisseries and bistros in the world. Dine in luxurious surroundings with magnificent views from the Eiffel Tower at Le Jules Verne. You can also follow the food trends but stick to traditional French fare at regular brasseries serving coq au vin and bouillabaisse. Sweet Every sweet tooth should try pastries from Pierre Hermé and Ladurée (housed within the Galerie Royale), known respectively for their macarons, croissants,…
3. Street Food Heaven — Bangkok, Thailand
Bangkok is a lively street food mecca with delicious flavors and foods everywhere. Try Thai street food at the numerous markets, like Chatuchak Weekend Market (a must-see after all) and Yaowarat or Chinatown. Here are the little things that contributed to a deep sense of satisfaction: Eating pad thai (rice noodle stir-fry), som tam (greens papaya salad) and mango sticky rice. To experience local foods, head to Raan Jay Fai, which is a street food from Michelin for their addictive crab omelet and pad kee mao.
4. 3 — Barcelona, Spain: Catalan Food Making An Impact On The WorldIEnumerator
With its wealth of Catalan culinary customs and lively tapas scene, Barcelona is firmly established as a leading gourmet city. Savor inventive fare at globally acclaimed restaurant El Celler de Can Roca, where thrilling Catalonian dishes take center stage. Search out busier and more casual spots like the bustling La Boqueria Market (90) to sample cheeses, cured meats and fresh seafood. To keep you going, make sure to grab some patatas bravas (potatoes with sauce) and, of course, pan con tomate.
Italian Classics: Rome, Italy
In our opinion, Rome is the heart of Italian cuisine and home to many traditional dishes for you to try. This is your chance to feast on authentic carbonara or cacio e pepe in local trattorias such as Roscioli and Da Enzo al 29. Find the colourful Campo de’ Fiori market, which is full of fruits and typical crafts. Finish off the meal by treating yourself at established gelato and tiramisu joints like Giolitti or Pompi.
Istanbul, Turkey: Where Old Tradition Meets New Flavor
Food in Istanbul is a synthesis of Eastern and Western culinary traditions. Head to places such as Mizrahi for classic kebabs and mezes, or dive into the wonders of the Grand Bazaar. Also, get a sample of delicious baklava and Turkish delight at the famous Hafiz Mustafa. Karaköy: The lively nook of Karaköy is also larvae-rich with its innovative food scene, offering the best street-food fare.
Mexico City, Mexico: Celebrate with the Flavors of Mexico
Mexico City is an utter mecca for food, where traditional Mexican dishes meet contemporary fare. Stop at La Merced market to browse the produce, meats and regional foods. Journey to Mexico City and indulge in some of the best food on Earth — whether that means devouring slow-roasted tacos al pastor or nested mole poblano with hot churros from a bustling street-style restaurant or vibrant top-tier restaurants such as Pujol and Quintonil serving modern reinterpretations of old-time classics Go.
O Meu Palpite: Lisboa, Portugal A Dream to a lover of Seafoods.
Lisbon, known for its seafood and culinary scene, turned a maritime heritage into the almost lyrical national dish bacalhau. Check out Time Out Market, which has a selection of elite-chef dishes — bacalhau à brás (salted codfish) and pastéis de nata (custard tarts from the famous Pastéis de Belém). Walk the cobbled streets of Alfama and try some grilled sardines or stewed seafood in one of the traditional tascas (taverns) for an authentic local experience.
NYC, USA — The International Food Lovers Mecca
One of the things I love about NYC is that its food scene can satisfy pretty much any taste buds, given New York City is so diverse and ever-changing! Whether you are street food vendor or a high-end dining outlet, the city has room for every one. Chelsea Market (for all the good foodie artisanal stalls) or Eleven Madison Park. Taste New York City with boroughs crammed of global-rich features, including Chinatown and Little Italy, and grab a bite from one (or all) of the two famous pizza places —New York pies or bagels.
A Culinary Exploration of Korean Cuisine, Seoul, Korea
Seoul has an abundance of Korean dishes as a food hub. Gwangjang Market, where you can taste such local meals as bibimbap, bulgogi and kimchi. The lively street food culture in the city provides sought-after dishes like tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) and hotteok (sweet pancakes). For a traditional dining experience, head to the popular Jingogae or Baetjang for an exceptional taste of Korea.
These locales offer unique and unforgettable food experiences, giving you the chance to savor flavors that reflect culture and tradition of its regions. If you enjoy wandering through street food markets or want to hit up the best restaurants in town, these places are guaranteed to make your taste buds sing and give you a unique travel experience.
