There’s no better way to expand your culinary palette than to try international dishes. Many people take this seriously, traveling to different countries specifically to try their local dishes and experience new flavors. So, here are the 19 best foodie destinations around the world.
Barcelona
Another top foodie destination is Spain’s Barcelona, which blends traditional Catalan cuisine with modern culinary innovations. The city’s markets, like La Boqueria, are filled with fresh produce, seafood, and cured meats, and you’ll absolutely love trying out new dishes at the city’s famous (and highly affordable) Tapas bars. Don’t forget to try paella while you’re there.
New York City
As any American knows, New York City is a melting pot of global cuisines, home to the iconic New York-style pizza, high-end dining, and highly affordable hot dog stands. It’s incredibly multicultural, especially in areas such as Chinatown, Little Italy, Flushing, and Harlem, so you could probably try many cuisines from this list simply by visiting The Big Apple.
Rome
The culinary scene in Rome is one of the most famous in the world, steeped in history and tradition. Everyone loves classic Italian dishes like pasta carbonara, cacio e pepe, and supplì; in general, Italian food is inoffensive and accessible, so we’re sure you’ll find plenty of dishes that you enjoy.
Tokyo
Renowned for its sushi, sashimi, and ramen, foodie destinations don’t get much better than Tokyo. This city offers an incredible range of dining experiences, and it’s not just about traditional sushi. CNN reports that you’ll also find some of the best Wagyu steak in the world, not to mention countless amazing craft beer locations.
Paris
Despite its reputation for being somewhat rude to tourists, Paris, the heart of French cuisine, is still very famous for its patisseries, cheese shops, and bistros. You can stroll along the Seine and enjoy fresh baguettes, buttery croissants, and artisanal cheeses or indulge in exquisite dining experiences at iconic restaurants like Le Jules Verne. Wherever you go, your tastebuds will certainly be watering.
Bangkok
If you’re into the spicier side of Asian cuisine, you can’t beat Bangkok’s vibrant street food scene. The city is a paradise for food lovers, offering spicy Thai curries, fragrant mango sticky rice, and even a collection of stomach-churning fried insects. Markets like Chatuchak and Floating Markets provide an authentic taste of local flavors, so give Bangkok a go if you want to try something new.
Istanbul
When you visit Istanbul, you can expect to enjoy a rich blend of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean flavors. Street food, such as simit and döner kebabs, is readily available, and the city’s markets, like the Grand Bazaar, are perfect for exploring spices, sweets, and local delicacies. Traditional Turkish coffee is also a must-try.
Mexico City
If you’re a fan of Mexican food, it should come as no surprise to you that we’re recommending Mexico City, a culinary hotspot known for its vibrant flavors and street food culture. Tacos, tamales, and churros are just the beginning; you’ll find so many more obscure Mexican dishes that you’ve probably never tried, so consider flying over if you’re a serious foodie.
Marrakech
A lot of people overlook Morocco’s Marrakech as a foodie spot; it truly is a hidden gem for your taste buds. You’ll find aromatic spices and bold flavors everywhere you go, especially in the city’s markets or souks, which are filled with fresh herbs, dried fruits, and nuts. Tagines, couscous, and pastries like baklava are also staples of Moroccan cuisine, so don’t overlook Marrakech on your foodie bucket list.
Lima
When traveling to South America, it would be insane to miss out on Lima, the culinary capital of Peru. This city is famous for its fusion of indigenous, European, and Asian influences, offering a truly unique blend of cuisine. Ceviche, a dish of marinated raw fish, is particularly worth trying, but if that’s not your cup of tea, you’ll certainly find plenty of more contemporary dishes.
Singapore
While the city itself is known for being quite expensive, the food scene in Singapore is actually very affordable, providing a unique melting pot of Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Western influences. Hawker centers offer a variety of affordable and delicious dishes, such as Hainanese chicken rice and laksa, and the low prices allow you to try literally anything you lay your eyes on.
Sydney
While it’s not especially known for its food, Sydney boasts a vibrant food culture influenced by its multicultural population. It’s truly overlooked, especially for fresh seafood, like Sydney rock oysters and barramundi, not to mention the epic Sydney Fish Market. However, if you’re not a fan of fish, you’ll still find lots of other local produce, such as grills, trendy cafes, and fine dining establishments.
Buenos Aires
Anyone who loves beef simply has to visit Buenos Aires, which is the Mecca of steak. They have some of the best cuts in the world, served in parrillas or steakhouses, which serve up juicy cuts of meat cooked to perfection. Argentine cuisine also features empanadas, chimichurri, and dulce de leche, and it simply mustn’t be missed by meat lovers.
San Francisco
For a more local foodie destination, Americans should take a quick trip over to San Francisco, which has a truly diverse and innovative culinary scene. The city’s farmers’ markets, like the Ferry Building Marketplace, offer fresh, local produce, and seafood lovers will devour dishes like clam chowder and Dungeness crab. Michelin-starred restaurants and food trucks provide unique and delicious dining options, so bring plenty of spending money.
Hong Kong
Another Asian favorite among foodies is Hong Kong, which is a food lover’s paradise with its mix of Cantonese and international cuisines. Dim sum, roast duck, and wonton noodles are just a few of the local favorites. The city’s street food scene is bustling and vibrant, although don’t be surprised when you come across some dishes that don’t appeal to Western palettes.
Cape Town
Countless foodies ignore Cape Town’s food scene, which is a real shame because it’s fantastic. The dishes available are prime reflections of South Africa’s diverse cultural heritage; you’ll get to enjoy fresh seafood, like snoek and kingklip, local produce and artisanal goods, and more traditional meals, such as bobotie, biltong, and Cape Malay curry.
Berlin
Countless tourists flock to Berlin every year for many reasons, most of which involve food. It’s an urban haven for foodies with its eclectic mix of traditional and modern cuisines. Street food, like currywurst and döner kebabs, is particularly popular, and vegan and vegetarian tourists will never want to go home with all the plant-based options available.
Montreal
If you’re taking a trip up North, Montreal offers a unique blend of French and Canadian cuisines. You won’t find better poutine than here, and the local bagels and smoked meat sandwiches are to die for. The city’s markets, like Jean-Talon Market, also provide fresh, local produce, so you’ll have plenty of local goodies to bring back to the States with you.
Copenhagen
Perhaps the most hidden gem on this list, Denmark’s Copenhagen, is at the forefront of the New Nordic cuisine movement. The city’s restaurants, like Noma, are renowned for their innovative use of local ingredients. Traditional Danish dishes, such as smørrebrød and pastries, are also popular. Don’t be surprised when you can’t pronounce anything, though–just point to order or ask the chef for their recommendations.