Food and travel is a match made in heaven. And trying out local cuisine is a crucial aspect of any travel experience. Thankfully, there are countless destinations around the world that will tantalise your taste buds. From the bustling streets of Bombay to the picturesque hills of Tuscany – there’s a foodie’s paradise in every corner of the globe.
Here are 10 best destinations from around the world that every foodie should consider visiting.
Mendoza, Argentina
Mendoza is an elegant city lined with trees and bathed in sunshine. Offering a fusion of exquisite food and wine, the spot is conveniently located in the heart of Argentina’s wine region of Cuyo. This cosmopolitan city is famed for its exceptional Malbecs and other red wines, providing the ultimate destination for foodies seeking adventures, good food, and delicious wine in one place.
When visiting Mendoza, don’t miss out on the chance to indulge in a wine tasting, or take a tour of the numerous bodegas (wineries). Many of the top wineries offer scrumptious lunches and boast awe-inspiring views of the Andes. The regional cuisine of Medoza features a variety of dishes, including the must-try parrillas – a traditional Argentinian grill serving various meats – along with tomaticán and humitas.
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Renowned for its delicious traditional food, Ethiopia is home to some of Africa’s most distinctive and delectable cuisine. The country boasts a rich cultural heritage that sets it apart from the rest of the continent, with a cuisine that remains one of the world’s best-kept culinary secrets, despite its growing popularity. And its bustling capital city is the best place to experience it all.
And for foodies who relish eating with their hands, Ethiopian cuisine offers a unique and memorable experience. Most dishes feature injera – a sour, spongy flatbread that serves as a base for a diverse array of crunchy salads, stews, and lentil curries. In addition, coffee (known as “bunna”) plays a prominent role in Ethiopian food culture, with a daily coffee ceremony viewed as a gesture of respect and friendship. For a foodie seeking a one-of-a-kind culinary adventure, Ethiopia offers the perfect blend of traditions, and hospitality.
Bordeaux, France
Bordeaux is a foodie’s dream vacation destination – especially when you’re pairing the opulent wines of the region with breath-taking scenery. Exploring Bordeaux’s culinary offerings warrants at least a week of your time, with an abundance of wine bars and street food markets to delight your senses.
For wine enthusiasts and foodies seeking to experience the French countryside, a bike tour through Bordeaux’s picturesque vineyards is a must-do activity. The region is renowned for its gastronomic delights, including foie gras, duck confit, and black truffles – which pair beautifully with bold Bordeaux wines. Whether indulging in gourmet meals, enjoying world-class wines, or simply taking in the stunning landscapes, Bordeaux offers and unparalleled experience for any food lover.
So c’est la vie and indulge in the flavours of this magnificent region!
Mumbai, India
A vibrant and colourful city that beckons foodies to indulge in its rich culinary heritage: Mumbai. In reality, every corner of India is a gastronomic delight waiting to be uncovered, with Mumbai being an incredible haven for vegetarian food lovers. The city offers a plethora of options for both vegetarians and non-vegetarians – with spicy curries and buttery naans being just a few of the many mouth-watering choices.
For those who relish street food, the bustling streets of Mumbai offer an endless array of food vendors. Among the local favourites is bhel puri – flavourful mix of puffed rice, sev, potatoes, onions, chat masala, and chutney. To complete the experience, pair this snack with a steaming cup of chai, a traditional spiced tea that will awaken your senses. For foodies seeking an adventure in India, Mumbai’s street food scene is a must-try!
Mexico City, Mexico
Mexico City has always been a top choice for food enthusiasts and sun seekers alike.
The city is a melting pot of old and new – where traditional meets modern, and fine dining collides with street food, creating a unique culinary landscape. In fact, in 2010, UNESCO declared traditional Mexican cuisine an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity – making it one of the most distinctive and celebrated culinary traditions in the world.
To experience the essence of Mexico City’s food scene, indulge in local favourites like tostadas, enchiladas, and tamales – each offering a unique flavour and texture. And no Mexican meal is complete without a side of guacamole and a sip of Mezcal, a traditional agave-based alcoholic beverage that packs a punch. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a curious traveller, Mexico City promises a food adventure you won’t forget.
Santorini, Greece
Aside from its breath-taking sunset views, Santorini is also a foodie’s paradise. This volcanic island boasts not just charming villages and pristine beaches, but also a cuisine that will satisfy your taste buds. Think Greek salads with drizzles of olive oil, juicy kofta, fresh pomegranates, and tender land – all coming from a Grecian heaven.
Santorini’s cuisine is based on traditional Greek flavors, with a contemporary twist. Local delicacies like fava (mashed split peas) and revithada (chickpea stew), as well as mouth-watering Santorini cherry tomatoes or tomato fritters are all a must-try in the island’s many tavernas and restaurants. Don’t forget to pair your meal with some of the region’s finest wines!
Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo is a vibrant and lively city that offers a fantastic selection of once-in-a-lifetime culinary experiences. From luxurious dining to casual eateries, Tokyo caters to all kinds of foodies. The city is also known for its specific and niche restaurants that offer unique and exquisite dishes.
One of the must-try dishes in Tokyo is unagi, which is a grilled eel dish. Ramen lovers will also find themselves in heaven, as the city is filled with small restaurants that serve up incredible bowls of ramen. And no Tokyo food tour would be complete without sampling some of the world’s best sushi, including sashimi.
Tuscany, Italy
Tuscany, Italy is a food lover’s paradise. The region offers tender handmade pasta, rich meaty tomato sauces, and briny olives and antipasto. And there’s no better place to sip on acclaimed Tuscan wine than on a sun-baked terrace of one of the vineyards, taking in sweeping views of the Italian countryside.
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When it comes to soups, Tuscany is notorious for its ribollita – a Tuscan vegetable and bread soup. Another must-try dish in Tuscany is the pappa al pomodoro, a tomato and bread soup that captures the essence of the region’s cuisine. Whether you’re a foodie or not, Tuscany’s delicacies will take you on a journey through the flavours and traditions of Italy.
New Orleans, Louisiana
If you’re looking for some authentic southern comfort food, New Orleans is the place for you! Home to some of the United States’ finest chefs, this vibrant city is fully of magic, history, and sensory delights. From succulent crawfish to flavourful jambalaya and beignets, New Orleans is famed for its delicious cuisine – and of course gumbo, a thick, hearty stew packed with several meats and seafood.
Influenced by both Creole and French cultures, New Orleans cuisine is far from typical American food, with its unique style and culture. Foodies will love exploring the city’s many dining options, and don’t forget to check out the city’s sophisticated cocktail scene. Mixology and storytelling go hand in hand in this city, with many cocktails rooted in New Orleans’ rich history.
Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona, Spain has earned its reputation as a foodie mecca – attracting visitors looking for both fine dining and charming tapas bars. For those who love to cook as much as they love to eat, the famous Boqueria market is a must-visit destination.
While tapas are popular year-round, Barcelona is one of the best places to sample them, with high-quality small plates available at reasonable prices. Local and familiar foodies love to “tapas hop” from one restaurant to the next to experience the most variety while sightseeing at the same time. And be sure not to miss out on the seafood paella, a favourite among locals and visitors alike!
Traveling the world and experiencing new cultures through food is a true adventure for the senses. From the delicate flavours in Tokyo to the hearty stews of the Tuscan countryside, every dish tells a story, and every bite is a new experience. With so many destinations offering unique and delicious cuisine, the possibilities are endless for foodies looking to embark on a culinary journey around the world. So, pack your bags and prepare your taste buds for an unforgettable adventure!
Efrat Sagi-Ofir is CRO & Founder of Air Doctor. Air Doctor is a startup that connects travelers to a global network of 20,000 local medical doctors through an easy-to-use app, to receive appropriate medical care from anywhere in the world.
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