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21 Top Foodie Destinations Around the World

If you love food and want to explore some really fantastic foodie destinations, we’ve got the list for you! Adding culinary activities to your vacation itinerary is one of the best ways to experience the culture of the destination you’re in. 

This list contains 21 of the best places to go for foodie vacations. If there’s one thing we truly believe here at Savored Journeys, it’s that eating well and traveling well go together like… well, you can’t have one with the other, as they say.

» Looking for awesome dining experiences to travel for? Try these 10 Most Remote Dining Locations . You might like How to Recreate International Dishes at Home.

For us, it’s part of the experience to taste the  tapas in Barcelona , the sushi in Tokyo , chocolate in Switzerland, and that incredibly delicious sauerkraut soup in Prague . That’s why we make it a priority to visit top foodie destinations around the world. If you agree, then you’re probably a foodie traveler, just like we are.

We make food a priority during our travels, in order to experience the culture, learn about the people, and immerse ourselves in what makes this place unique. Yes, we believe you can do all of that through food.

Read more about our favorite foodie cities: Paris | London | Bologna

Table of Contents

Why We Travel For Food And So Should You

Culinary vacations are becoming more popular now than ever before. We’ve all started to realize that many of our favorite things to do on vacation and the strongest memories we take back home with us have to do with food.

Maybe you took a really great food tour , or you learned to make pasta in Italy, or you ate at a particularly amazing fine dining restaurant. Those are all cherished memories now.

Have you ever noticed how even the faint aroma of something you ate on vacation instantly takes you back to when you experienced it? Tasting an Argentinian Malbec transports me to a tasting room in Mendoza . The smell of galangal and lime instantly brings to mind the Thai cooking class we took in Chiang Mai.

Even the sight of choclo (really large corn) gets me excited for the intense flavors of Peruvian food . Just ask Nick – “big corn”, makes me unreasonably excited. Food is powerful. It’s what makes us who we are as a people. It is an essential part of life and community.

In fact, I seriously question whether you can experience the real, authentic side of a culture without experiencing the food.

After all, what is Thailand without a plate of Pad Thai, China without Dim Sum, Canada without poutine, Mexico without street tacos?

Indulging in Michelin starred restaurants , veering off the beaten path to where they make the best fried noodles, immersing yourself in pasta making in Chianti, or even accepting a dare to eat balut in the Philippines – these are the things vibrant memories are made of. Check out these vegetarian food experiences too!

Top Foodie Vacations Around the World

We are always searching for culinary vacations that promise incredible dining options, fun food-inspired experiences and some really good wine to wash it all down with.

And while there are so many great locations around the world that satisfy that craving, some stand out more than others in the culinary department. I have to admit, even picking only 21 destinations that we think are foodie heaven is hard – there are so many!

When it comes to foodie destinations, the best ones have irresistible food that’s you can’t find anywhere else. Some will immediately come to mind, like Italy and Spain. Others you have to search a little for.

1. Mendoza, Argentina

Some of the best wines come out of Mendoza, but did you know about its culinary scene? Mendoza is a perfect spot for foodies who want to enjoy all three of pillars of good travel in one destination: good food, wine and adventures.

Many of the top wineries in the region serve impressive multi-course wine lunches from their winery restaurants that have often have breathtaking views of the Andes from every seat and include as much wine as you want to drink.

Visit these wineries and restaurants for a complete foodie experience in Mendoza:

• Bodega Ruca Malen (lunch and wine tasting)
• Andeluna Cellars (lunch and wine tasting)
• The Vines of Mendoza (for a comprehensive tasting)
• Siete Fuegos (Fine dining on an open fire — and stay at The Vines Resort & Spa – check prices and read reviews )

Tours you may enjoy:

• All day, small group, luxury wine tour with gourmet lunch
• Maipú Wine-Tasting Tour from Mendoza Including Trapiche Winery

2. Paris, France

When people plan their trips to Paris, they tend to forget that the city is a foodie paradise, even though it’s in France. There are so many fun food things to do in Paris that will enhance your sightseeing, help you build lasting memories, and create a diverse and interesting itinerary. 

With so many delicious French foods to try, croissants and Croque Monsieurs belong right there alongside the Eiffel Tower and Sacre-Coeur. No vacation to the French capital is complete without trying the foods that make the country so unique – yes, escargot and frog’s legs included!

Whether that’s a stop off one of Paris’ many street food markets to check out the products, at a local crepe stand, or on a full-day food tour , there are many ways to taste and enjoy Paris.

If you have extra time, you can also get outside of the city to either the Bordeaux wine regio n or Champagne wine region . Reims and Epernay are two of the main Champagne cities to visit to learn more about French wines .

Tours you might enjoy:

• Montmartre Hill Sweet & Savory French Gourmet Food & Wine Tasting Tour
• Bateaux Parisiens Seine River Gourmet Dinner & Sightseeing Cruise

3. Tuscany, Italy

One of the top things on most foodie’s bucket lists is to take cooking classes in Italy . We dream of making tender, homemade pasta and rich meaty tomato sauces, drinking wine in Tuscany and eating briny olives and antipasto on the terrace overlooking the vineyards.

This experience can be found all over Italy — there’s no shortage of cooking schools and wine tasting tours.

One of our favorite areas in Tuscany is Chianti. Not only is it absolutely gorgeous and easy to get around (see our self-guided Chianti tour ideas), there are dozens of amazing Chianti Classico wines to try. Here are some of our favorite places to stay in Tuscany for wine tasting.

I’ve always been enchanted with Montepulciano, as well.

Montepulciano is a charming hilltop town in the heart of Tuscany, Italy, known for its picturesque streets, historic architecture, and world-class wineries. The town is surrounded by rolling hills covered in vineyards, and the local wine industry is a major part of the economy and culture.

There are several wineries in and around Montepulciano that offer tours and tastings, like Avignonesi, Poliziano, and Boscarelli.

• Small-Group Wine Tasting Experience in the Tuscan Countryside
• Cooking Class and Lunch at a Tuscan Farmhouse with Local Market Tour from Florence

4. San Sebastian, Spain

It might not be a major cosmopolitan city like Paris or London , but San Sebastian is perhaps the greatest food destination in the world, with more Michelin stars per capita than any other city and a thriving pintxos scene that you won’t believe until you see it.

It makes the list not only because of the overabundance of haute cuisine, but because it is literally paradise, with its incredible view over the crescent bay and the beautiful La Concha Beach. There are three 3-star restaurants, among a handful of 1- and 2-starred places, plus a plethora of pintxos bars serving gourmet-style bites that are just as good as any fancy meal you’ve ever had.

• Here’s a great evening pintxos tour in San Sebastian that you’ll love.
• Arzak – 3-stars — one of the top restaurants in the world — not to be missed.

Just an hour or so from San Sebastian is the Rioja wine region of Spain, where you’ll also find some really incredible food from Michelin star chefs and formidable home-style restaurants. One of the funnest foodie things we’ve ever done was a pinchos crawl down the tiny streets of Logrono, Spain. It’s a foodie’s dream!

• Evening Pintxo-Tapas Tour with a Local Expert
• PINTXOS in San Sebastian – Private Gastronomic and Cultural Adventure

5. Bordeaux, France

Combine the delicious wines of Bordeaux with the gorgeous scenery and you have the vacation every foodie has been dreaming about in France. You should plan for at least a week in Bordeaux to give it justice. You can spend two days in the Left Bank and two days in the Right Bank , and still only scratch the surface of the wine and food possibilities.

Also, be sure to spend time in the center of Bordeaux, where we found some really incredible food options, from wine bars to street food markets. The newly opened wine museum is also very much worth a visit.

A bike tour through Bordeaux is perfect for wine enthusiasts, foodies and really anyone who wants to enjoy the countryside while biking through some of the world’s most beautiful vineyards.

You can enjoy a winery biking tour through the Left Bank or the Right Bank. The area around Saint Emillion is my favorite, and it’s flat and easy to ride.

Imagine foie gras, duck confit, and black truffles paired with bold and complex Bordeaux wines. You’ll be having gourmet lunches and dinners paired with world-class wine every day. It doesn’t get any better than this.

Check out these guided foodie activities in Bordeaux:

• Small-Group Saint-Emilion Day Trip from Bordeaux
• Bordeaux Gourmet Food Walking Tour with Lunch

6. New York City, New York, USA

New York City is also a culinary capital of the world. Here you’ll find incredible food everywhere, from street vendors to Michelin-starred restaurants and even a few completely outrageous foods that you won’t find anywhere else.

Culinary trends seem to start and end in NYC. But one of the things that makes this city so great is the high number of really talented chefs that call it home. Most of them have restaurants there that aren’t insanely hard to get into, so you can eat dinner made by a master. Some to check out are Le Bernardin, Eleven Madison Park, and Cosme (by the legendary Mexico City chef of Pujol ).

Be sure to also make it to favorites like Katz Delicatessen, Momofuku Noodle Bar, and the Peter Luger steakhouse. You’ll also find huge, thin slices of New York Pizza, street hot dogs, Jewish delis, extravagant brunches. It’s all there waiting for you to discover.

• Greenwich Village Walking and Food Tasting Tour
• Chelsea Market and High Line Food Tour

7. Tokyo, Japan

I’m a huge sushi fan. Who isn’t, right? In Tokyo, you will find the freshest, best, most amazing sushi in the world. If that’s not reason enough to head to Japan for your next foodie vacation, I don’t know what else I can say – WAIT, yes I do.

How about the really fun, totally cool izakayas you can find in all the back alleys and small crevices around the city. It sounds like dive bar quality, but it’s so not. In fact, it’s an adventurous foodie’s dream. Or the old Tsukiji outer market , which is an absolute must visit in Tokyo.

You’ll see foods you’ve never heard of before , even lots of unique Japanese drinks , and get to sample tons of things along the way. In Japan, you can eat the best of every type of food they make, from gyoza to okonomiyaki to ramen and takoyaki. Nearly every chef is a master at his cuisine.

Another great activity in Tokyo for food lovers is participating in a traditional tea ceremony. You can see what it’s all about and learn the proper manners in an informal ceremony in Hamarikyu Gardens . These things and more are part of our complete 3-day foodie guide to Tokyo.

• Tsukiji Fish Market Food and Culture Walking Tour
• Walking Food Tour of Shibuya at Night

8. Bangkok, Thailand

I think Thai food is very much a universally loved cuisine. Getting to try authentic Thai dishes the way they were meant to be eaten (at a night market or from a street vendor in Thailand ) is one of the best culinary experiences I’ve ever had.

In Bangkok, there are opportunities for cooking classes , food tours, street food for every meal, even Michelin star restaurants. For an even more unique experience, head out of town to the nearby floating markets to witness something you won’t see anywhere else. Make sure you try the mangosteens. Oh so good.

The best thing about Bangkok food is that there is a lot of it everywhere. There used to be street food vendors dispersed throughout the city, but now there are conglomerations of food stalls that you can find in the city. Some of our favorites are Bangkok’s Chinatown Market, Wang Lang Market, and the Chatuchak weekend market.

No matter where you’re staying, there is likely a street food market nearby. Be sure to keep your eyes open as you walk around. Street food is definitely the way to go in Bangkok. It’s so cheap and it’s delicious.

• Bangkok Midnight Food Tour by Tuk Tuk
• Chef designed Bangkok Food Tour for 8 Exclusive Guests

9. London, England

Another big city that is often overlooked as a food destination is London . But don’t make this mistake! London is the food capital of the world. No where will you find the array of international food choices , dining experiences , and foodie activities  that you will find in London.

People often think London doesn’t have good food – or that it consists merely of fish and chips and pub food. But that couldn’t be farther from the truth. In fact, London is one of the biggest food cities in the world. You can find every type of cuisine imaginable in the city. Plus, where else in the world can you find nearly dozens of afternoon tea choices ?

You can browse around London’s many markets , including Camden Market and  Borough Market – which are two of our favorites, or you can stop for a street food break at the really cool and fun Boxpark in Shoreditch.

We absolutely love Soho for the dizzying array of food choices. You can’t walk three steps without coming up a different restaurant, wine bar, pub, waffle bar, gelateria – you name it.

• London East End Food Tour
• Secret Food Tour: London Bridge & Borough Market w/ Private Tour Option

10. Melbourne, Australia

Melbourne, Australia, is a great food city, with many great restaurants to check out around the city. Some of our favorite restaurants in Melbourne are located on Flinders Lane. Two that I highly recommend are Chin Chin and Lucy Liu.

While staying in Melbourne, don’t miss the opportunity to get out to the wonderful Yarra Valley wine region. There are more than a dozen of wineries to visit. It’s a cool climate, so they produce a lot of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and some sparkling.

We love food and wine events, and Melbourne, Australia is home to one of the best, the Melbourne Food & Wine Festival . The festival extends for 17 days in March and features global culinary superstars who host events, create unforgettable dishes for participants to sample and draw crowds of over 250,000 each year.

• Melbourne Foodie Discovery Walking Tour
• Yarra Valley Wine & Food Day Tour from Melbourne with lunch at Yering Station

11. Stellenbosch, South Africa

Only an hour outside of Cape Town is the Stellenbosch Wine Region of South Africa. Of all the places we’ve been to for wine tasting, Stellenbosch is my favorite. The winery experience is so much more inviting and relaxed here.

You can take a tour with a group, so you don’t have to drive yourself, or you can plan your own winery tour with a designated driver. When you arrive at a winery, you’ll be able to  relax at a table or on a comfy couch and have the wine samples brought to you.

The region also has a large number of top restaurants with chef’s who know the wine well and create masterpieces that live up to the wine.  Some of the best foodie things in Stellenbosch:

• Rust en Vrede Restaurant
• Overture at Hidden Valley Restaurant
• Spier Winery and Eight at Spier Restaurant
• Visit Stellenbrau Brewery

When you’re done eating your way through Stellenbosch, there’s another nearby wine region to explore: Franschhoek. Both areas are well known for their gourmet cuisine and fine wines.

• Full Day Afrivista Wine Tours from Stellenbosch
• Wine Tasting and cultural tour with a wine maker

12. Bologna, Italy

While there are many touristy things to do in Bologna and the surrounding area, it truly is one of the best culinary vacation spots in the world.

There are so many food experiences to have in this area, from a full blown DOP food tour that takes you to a Parmigiano-Reggiano factory, a Parma ham production facility, and a home where traditional Balsamic vinegar is made, to a more intimate cooking class in the city, you simply will not run out of food-related things to do.

The Emilia-Romagna area (of which Bologna is the capital), is known for its wine, but you may think it’s only home to the sparkling semi-sweet Lambrusco wine. Lambrusco is found mostly in the northern part of the region, but Romagna makes mostly Sangiovese red wines, in a style not too different from neighboring Tuscany.

A wine-tasting trip to Romagna will reveal a whole new world of wine you didn’t know was out there.

• Bologna Food Tour from a local perspective
• Secret Food Tours Bologna w/ Private Tour Option

13. Mexico City, Mexico

When we were preparing to go to Mexico City , thoughts of indulging in real, authentic Mexican food were all I could think about. I could eat burritos, carnitas, enchiladas, tacos and guacamole all day, every day and be perfectly content.

If that sounds like something you might say, then a culinary trip to Mexico City should definitely be at the top of your list! There are a lot of great eating experiences to have around Mexico City. We found some really great restaurants , like Pujol and Maximo Bistrot. We tried many different mezcals and tequilas, and spent an entire day wandering around Mercado Roma, tasting awesome foods.

We also highly recommend taking a food tour – we like this historic center food tour . You may even want to try your hand at making some of these foods – if you’ve never handmade a tortilla, I think it might be time you tried!

Here’s a cooking class that includes a food market tour.

• Colonia Roma Food Tour
• A Night of Tacos and Mezcal in Mexico City

14. Dotonbori, Osaka, Japan

When it comes to food, Japan has more dishes to love than nearly anywhere. But for me, the star of the show is one single street in Osaka, called Dotonbori . And one of my favorite things to eat there is the famous Osaka dish, Okonomiyaki, pictured above. Dōtonbori is one of the principal tourist destinations in Osaka.

It runs along the Dōtonbori canal from Dōtonboribashi Bridge to Nipponbashi Bridge in the Namba district of the city. It’s not a huge area. It covers only about 8 blocks. But it is absolutely jam packed with restaurants, food stalls and street vendors selling every type of food specialty Japan is known for. I would make a special foodie trip to Japan, just to visit Dotonbori and eat my heart out.

Around 5pm, Dotonbori Osaka turns from a fairly quiet, mostly deserted street, into a bustling and utterly jam-packed food metropolis with lines of hungry people queued up to buy trays of hot-off-the-grill gyoza , yakisoba, takoyaki, okonomiyaki, sukiyaki! If you can eat it, they are selling it. On Dotonbori food is king!

• Eat, Drink, Cycle: Osaka Food and Bike Tour
• Sushi Cooking Class in Osaka
• Osaka Local Foodie Walking Tour in Dotonbori and Shinsekai

15. Lima, Peru

You wouldn’t think it, would you? But Peru was named the top South America Food & Drink Destination by Frommer’s and for very good reason. Peru has a multicultural population that includes immigrants from Spain , China, Japan and more, and that helps to create a thriving food scene with regional variations that are unique and unexplored. 

Lima’s signature dishes, like ceviche and chicharones, are becoming favorites around the world and opening people’s eyes to the flavors of Peru. (Read our guide on foods you must try in Peru.) Restaurants like Astrid & Gaston have been delighting foodies for many years in Lima.

Superchef Gaston Acurio of La Mar and many others are priming the city with a modern take on traditional favorites. Now is the time to experience Peru’s food scene, before it is fully discovered.

⇒ Where to stay in Lima, Peru: Hilton Lima Miraflores ( see prices and read reviews )

• Lima Gourmet Food Tour: Evening Experience
• Peruvian Cooking Class Including Local Market Tour and Exotic Fruit Tasting

16. New Orleans, Louisiana

New Orleans food expands way past typical American food. It has a style and culture all its own, with Creole and French influences. It’s an amazing place to explore if you’re a foodie who likes to try new things.

Not only does New Orleans have an abundance of great chefs and dining experiences , it also boasts a rather sophisticated cocktail scene. Many of the cocktails served in New Orleans are routed in the city’s eclectic past, and come not only with a swizzle stick, but a long history that you’ll want to hear all about.

• Unique foods you’ll want to try in New Orleans
• Shortcut Guide to the best restaurants, cocktail bars and things to do in New Orleans
• Click to see the best hotels on and near Bourbon Street .
• New Orleans Food Walking Tour of the French Quarter with Small-Group Option
• New Orleans Cooking Class

17. Copenhagen, Denmark

A must-do on many foodie’s list is Copenhagen , Denmark, to eat at  Noma , a highly acclaimed restaurant that’s spent many years at the top of the  The World’s 50 Best Restaurants list.

Chef/owner Rene Redzepi knows how to delight diners with his ultra-modern menu, now in a new location on the edge of Christiania. However, Noma remains very difficult to get into, not to mention expensive.

Even if you can’t make it to Noma, Copenhagen is blessed with chefs who came out of the Noma kitchen to build their own restaurants like 108, Amass, and Sanchez.

A few of our favorite options in Copenhagen are 1 Michelin star Relae, the first all-organic restaurant to make the World’s 50 Best Restaurants list, Baest (from the same owners), and 2 Michelin starred AOC.

For a more laid back food experience, head to the trendy food-filled Reffen on Copenhagen’s industrial Refshaleøen, where food trucks and stalls sell high quality International dishes.

Where to stay in Copenhagen: 71 Nyhavn Hotel ( see prices and read reviews .)

• The Copenhagen Culinary Experience Food Tour
• The Art of Baking Danish Pastry

18. Hong Kong

Hong Kong a wonderful food city, with all kinds of great food stalls, restaurants, and dishes with many cultural influences to try. One of the best ways to acquaint yourself with the food and to discover some of the best places to eat and drink in Hong Kong is by taking a food tour.

There are a dizzying number of restaurants in the city, not to mention foods that many Western travelers haven’t even heard of before. Let an expert guide you through the experience. Probably the most iconic food in Hong Kong is dim sum. There are even a few super affordable dim sum restaurants in Hong Kong with Michelin stars.

You must go to one of these top-rated restaurants to order a full meal of dim sum. For a Michelin-star meal, head to Tim Ho Wan. Another one to try is One Dim Sum . Roast goose is the dish I will never forget. It’s an iconic Hong Kong dish that you absolutely must try. The crunchy skin and layer of rendered fat over tender meat. It’s a thing of true joy.

We ordered roast goose in a tiny restaurant called Yat Lok Roast Goose in the Central neighborhood on Hong Kong Island.

• Hong Kong Food Tour: Central and Sheung Wan Districts
• Hong Kong Markets Private Walking Tour with Local Guide

19. Istanbul, Turkey

One of the best places you can travel to for an amazing foodie trip is Turkey . As one of the most visited countries in the world, Turkey has a lot to offer visitors. From seaside resorts on the Mediterranean Sea, historical sites, welcoming people, rich culture, amazing museums and delicious Turkish dishes, a trip to this county will be quite memorable.

Whether you’re spending time in Istanbul, Capadoccia, or one of the other popular cities in Turkey, you’ll be able to try great food everywhere you turn. Each area has a spin on the dishes they serve, but look out for things like Doner Kebab, Meze, Pide, and Baklava.

• Taste of Two Continents Food Tour
• The 10 Tastings of Istanbul With Locals: Private Street Food Tour

20. Naples, Italy

Each region of Italy has its own unique list of specialty foods you must try, and Naples is no different. From the iconic Neopolitan pizza, to deep fried macaroni, to rum-soaked sponge cakes, you really must spend some time eating your way through Naples to fully discover the city and all its charms.

Be prepared. There are a LOT of great things to eat in this city.  If you’re looking for a way to experience the best Italian food in Naples, there’s really no better way to do it than to go on a food tour with Eating Europe . We spent a week venturing around the city to find the best pizza.

Our favorite pizza in the city was at Pizzeria Da Attilio, but there are memorable pizzas at 50 Kalo and Antico Borgo Ai Vergini . These are just a few of the top of their game. Other foods to try include Pizza Fritta, Cuoppo and Pasta Frittatine.

• Naples Street Food Tour With Local Expert
• Street Food Tour of Naples with City Sightseeing and Top-Rated Local Guide

21. Catalunya, Spain

If you’ve been to  Spain , you already know that the entire country is vastly rich in culture, heritage, and especially  products and foods  that are specific to each micro region. Catalunya is one of those regions, and the amount of unique products, recipes and foods you can find there is astounding.

Catalunya has a very complex food culture. Not only does it have specific products that you don’t find in other parts of Spain, each of the smaller areas of Catalunya also have their own unique dishes that other areas of Catalunya don’t have. As a foodie in that area, you really will become immersed in a rich food culture. Even if you wanted to avoid it, you couldn’t. Food is so much a part of who they are.

While there, we discovered a plethora of products and foods you must try. You can visit wineries (there are many different wine regions – including Priorat and Emporda , plus they make Cava in Catalunya.)

With all of these great culinary destinations, you’ll never run out of food-centric vacations to take. We’ve been to each one of these and have loved them all. The variety of food around the world is just astounding.

Why not visit some of your favorites and find new dishes to love!

Be Prepared For Travel Planning is the most important part of any successful trip. Do it the easy way:

🧳 Travel Packing List | ✔️ Why You Need Travel Insurance | ✈️ What to Do Before You Leave Home

• Find and book the best hotel (our favorite booking site is Expedia)
• Research flight options (our favorite tool is Skyscanner )
• Book a tour (we always use Viator to find the best tours)
• Rent a car through Discover Cars (they search the best deals for you!)

Related Posts:

• 36 Best Beach Drinks to Order at All-Inclusive Resorts (+ Recipes!)
• 13 Unconventional Things To Do in Washington DC
• 11 Port Houses to Visit in Porto

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Laura Lynch, creator and writer of Savored Journeys, is an avid world traveler, certified wine expert, and international food specialist. She has written about travel and food for over 20 years and has visited over 75 countries. Her work has been published in numerous guidebooks, websites, and magazines.

48 thoughts on “ 21 Top Foodie Destinations Around the World ”

Nice list! I have been to a Lima, New Orleans, Tuscany, Switzerland, & Bordeaux and definitely agree! I turn every trip into a foodie destination, and while some places are better than others I have yet to be disappointed by the overall food anywhere. Right now I’m parked in South Korea and finding this food to be some of my favorite in the world!

Thanks for posting your thoughts, Katie. With so many awesome food destinations around the world, it’s hard to narrow it down, but I think most foodies would agree that these are some of the very best. I loved South Korea too. So much good food. I look forward to reading more about your adventures there.

Have you never been to Turkey?

oh my goodness! I have a lot of traveling and eating to do! I have been to Spain twice but not San Sebastián but love the food there! And Tuscany-so good! I went to a South African wine tasting recently so can’t wait to get there in person to drink the wine! And hardly a Better place in the US like NOLA!

Right? It’s hard to beat any of these places for good food. That’s what I love so much about traveling for food – there’s always more to discover!

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Well I thought reading the article would help me choose a foodie destination for our 10th anniversary but now I’m famished and I can’t pick one location!!!so im going to ask as a foodie who’s travelled on a foodie vacation, where would you go?!? Ok let me rephrase that if you had to choose 1 place that’s amazing and you could visit again where would it be? Suggestions greatly appreciated!

I know, food overload! Where you go depends greatly on the type of food you like and whether you want to do mostly food things, or historical things too. If I had to pick one, is go with Bologna Italy. You can do so many different food activities there, plus extend down into Florence and Tuscany. My second choice would be Tokyo. If you like Japanese food, you will be in foodie heaven there.

Have you been to Bilbao, Spain?

Yes and we love the food in that region!

always malaysia is a food paradise

Hi, Great list. Thank you for your post. I have a passion for travel and food as well and I gained a lot of information from your post. It creates motivation for me a lot. I hope that in the near future, you will have other posts like this. Best regards

Glad you enjoyed it!

nice post thanks

Left out Istanbul, Turkey. Best food ever!

You’re right, Carolyn. I love Turkish food too.

Wonderful blog! Thanks for sharing!

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Great blog. Thanks for sharing..

www.luxxpress.com

You left out Vietnamese street foods in Ho Chi Minh city . Also street foods in Hong Kong.

Absolutely! We’ll be sure to add those to the list in the future.

You are missing Ho Chi Minh City.

Thank you! This list is really helpful. Our website is also about foods to eat in different cities. https://foodieadvice.com/

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i’m gonna cry..where is malaysia….it’s country with the food paradise???uwahhhh

So sorry! I agree that Malaysia is a fantastic foodie paradise.

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I’m a merchant mariner and I’ve traveled my whole adult life going all over the world trying good eats. I just came back from SE Asia and I’m pretty astounded that you would include Manila on this list. If there is a great Philippino dish to try it’s certainly the Sinigang not street squid (which I do love). However, the food game in PI isn’t on par with the rest of Asia. Have you been to Borneo? I’m in San Diego right now and I can honestly say that the food game here is better than half of these cities listed.

Part of the fun of traveling for food is to try these different cuisines and decide which ones you like the most. 🙂

Hi..I think you forgot India here ….I assume you never been to India.

We have, in fact, been to India and are headed back in January. This list can’t possibly be all inclusive. It’s just a taster of options for people looking to do culinary vacations. Thanks for adding India.

Missed Chengdu, China in the heart of Sichuan cuisine!

Worth a visit if you get a chance! The food, people and city are lovely!

Thanks Patrick!

Southern Italy (especially Naples and Sicily) is never mentioned in these rankings but it’s probably the best foodie region in Europe, easily topping Central and Northern Italy (Rome, Tuscany, Bologna, Venice and so on).

Thanks Christian. We visited Naples and Puglia this year and loved the food. It’s definitely a good addition to the list.

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Hey Laura, just finished reading the article, and god I’m so craving for that Neopolitan Pizza and a glass of wine imported from Italy only!!!!

Sounds amazing, right?!

Awesome write-up! Food tours are an amazing experience not only for foodies but for travelers who are interested in the culture of the destination as we all know that cuisine and food culture of any destination is based on historical influences and the uniqueness of the environment. For my tour, Delicious Kyiv: Ukrainian Wine & Appetizers Tasting Tour all wines and specialties of Ukrainian cuisine are prepared with ingredients from local wineries and farms.

I’m disappointed with the list. You missed Charleston, SC big time. It is a foodie destination and the best vacation destination.

We love Charleston too, but we wanted to keep the list short and not focused only on the U.S.

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Where to eat in 2022

Where to find the best food around the world in 2022

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Destination meals are compelling..

They’re delicious, too, but there’s good food everywhere. Destination meals are different. They whisk travelers from their cooking routines and familiar takeout spots, drawing them out with flavors that can’t be replicated, service that can’t be matched, and most of all, a story that can’t be told elsewhere. The cities, islands, neighborhoods, and regions that top the list of places we want to eat in 2022 span the globe, from Guadalajara to Markham, Saint-Martin to Orange County — yes, that O.C. — and their cuisines range from nasi lemak to puffy tacos to conche Creole. But every single one offers a captivating narrative, a reason to visit right now. These stories are told by a diverse cast of chefs, home cooks, street hawkers, and restaurateurs, all people who make us excited to travel, cooking the foods that make us excited to eat.

There’s the Korean-born opera singer in Buenos Aires serving japchae con carne, the pizzaiolo baking wild-yeasted pies on a Berkshires farm, the self-proclaimed first Arab pitmaster smoking Texas-style brisket in Dubai, and the photographer plating omakase picnics on a golden Malaysian rice paddy. There’s the chatty couple splitting coconuts on a bustling Saint-Martin street corner, the refugees baking peanut butter curry cookies at a nonprofit outside Atlanta, the chef distributing katsu sandos around St. Louis from a tiny Japanese fire truck, and on and on.

Two years into the COVID-19 pandemic, these stories also reveal cities that have emerged from the throes with their food traditions not just intact, but thriving — places where chefs gamely pivot to customers’ needs, restaurant workers lift each other up, and generous spirits endure. They’ve proven themselves resilient, if not immune, to the virus. We’re still anxious about the pandemic’s course and cautious about our impact on global health; we’re even more inspired by the myriad ways food communities everywhere have risen to meet the challenge head on — and come out serving food that’s unambiguously delicious. These are the 13 places we’re most excited to travel, and eat, as soon as we get the chance.

Note: There isn’t a corner of the globe untouched by COVID-19. This isn’t a list of Edens where you can escape the virus, nor an invitation to disregard the well-being of communities. It’s definitely not a guarantee these places will even welcome visitors throughout 2022. Check for updates from local health agencies before booking any trip. Travel responsibly. Eat well.

Guadalajara, Mexico | Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia | Saint-Martin, Caribbean | San Antonio, Texas | Markham, Canada | St. Louis, Missouri | Dubai, United Arab Emirates | Clarkston, Georgia | Mallorca, Spain | Orange County, California | Nantes, France | Buenos Aires, Argentina | Berkshires, Massachusetts

Guadalajara, Mexico

Mexico’s Silicon Valley and the proud home of tequila, birria, mariachis, and Mexican rodeo, the Jaliscan capital is driven by young, spirited entrepreneurs who link the city’s past and present.

Guadalajara is the new Mexico City. After years in the shadow of CDMX, Tapatíos are threatening to nab the title as the country’s gastronomic center. Financed by local tech and tequila industries, celebrated young chefs are drawing international diners and expanding on their parents’ success.

The buzz builds on the city’s famed taquerias, fondas, and street food, as well as Jalisco’s ancestral agave spirits. It’s also a destination for mariscos, spicy tortas ahogadas doused in incendiary Yahualica chile salsa, and antojitos (snacks) like red and green enchiladas and crispy tacos dorados. And then there’s birria, found at honored institutions and street stands. Strolling through the city, sizzling comales awaken the senses with aromas of chiles, tomatoes, and spices, while young locals can be heard toasting the enlivened dining scene. Grab a glass. — Bill Esparza

The 30 Essential Guadalajara Restaurants

• Need to Know:
• Currency: Mexican Peso ($1 USD = 21 pesos)
• When to visit: January through May or November and December for the warm, semiarid weather that’s part of Guadalajara’s attraction.
• Must-try: Tortas ahogadas, carnitas sandwiches drowned in a fiery salsa of tomatoes and lots of chile de árbol.

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Another city that never sleeps, the capital of Malaysia boasts an overwhelmingly diverse culinary scene.

Take a listen to Kuala Lumpur. Most days the streets reverberate with hawkers exchanging friendly banter, utensils ricocheting off woks, chendol trucks rumbling by, diners chatting excitedly at tables spilling out of open-air restaurants. Then, in 2020, an eerie silence took hold, interrupted only by scattered footsteps echoing through deserted alleys. Lockdowns caught the food and beverage industry off guard, and even as businesses pivoted to delivery, they faced shortages of containers and delivery riders, followed by more challenges. But then the noises of dining returned, along with brand-new sounds: Home bakers zipped by delivering bite-sized Nyonya kueh, private chefs warmly greeted guests for home-cooked meals, and proud locals paraded culinary tours through plates of nasi lemak and char kuey teow. The smells, sights, sensations, and of course tastes returned too, as locals and expats fill the streets again, not only in the city center but in lively suburbs and coastal enclaves. From the sound of it, Kuala Lumpur is hungry for visitors. — Ian Poh Jin Tze

The 38 Essential Kuala Lumpur Restaurants

• Currency: Ringgit ($1 USD = 4.18 ringgit)
• When to visit: The skies are blue and the weather dry from May till July, but consider braving the weather in September for Malaysia Day or December for New Year’s Eve, when the city is lit by fireworks.
• Must-try: Hokkien mee, with thick noodles braised in a dark, sweet soy sauce, punctuated by juicy, slightly charred pieces of pork lard.

Saint-Martin, Caribbean

Saint-Martin, the northern French half of a small West Indian island, that many consider the premier culinary destination in all of the Caribbean.

The Saint-Martin tourism board declared 2022 as the year of gastronomy, a signal that the dining industry is bouncing back from both the devastating Hurricane Irma in 2017 and the COVID-19 pandemic. The optimism isn’t misplaced; the island’s restaurants, from haute tasting menus to beach bars, are thriving, pairing delicacies like accra salt cod fritters with Champagne in celebration of the Creole and French flavors that drive the culinary scene.

Unlike some nearby Caribbean destinations (including the touristy Dutch half of the island overrun with cruise ships and casinos), it can feel effortless to eat well in French Saint-Martin, even on a budget. Wake up with fragrant herbal bush tea and warm johnnycakes, guava turnovers, or pain au chocolat. For lunch, taste the oceanic bounty: a splurge meal of fresh spiny lobster with crisp frites, or affordable plates of coconut shrimp or conch Creole from a beachside lolo. Follow that with beef samosas at the bar paired with epic blended concoctions. And for dinner, goat curry or a nouveau tasting menu, followed by Cuban cigars and aged rhum agricole. — Maria C. Hunt

The 18 Essential Saint-Martin Restaurants

• Currency: Euro ($1 USD = 89 euro cents), but most places take US dollars too
• When to visit: Saint-Martin is hot and sunny all year, but peak season is May to June and November to December.
• Must-try: Goat curry and bittersweet guavaberry rum, a local Christmas tradition.

San Antonio, Texas

A burgeoning metropolis with a strong culinary identity, fine dining fledglings, and hidden food gems that tell a story.

For a city named after the patron saint of lost things, San Antonio is great at holding onto its heritage. From the Alamo to the River Walk, the city is home to an assemblage of historic cultural landmarks, as well as institutions of tacos, barbecue, and other food traditions. Diners still rely on homegrown staples like the 65-year-old Ray’s Drive Inn (home of the puffy taco) and Schilo’s delicatessen (serving German-style deli meats since 1917), as well as decades-old local chains like Bill Miller Bar-B-Q and Burger Boy.

Over the last decade, San Antonio has embraced change without losing its grip on its roots. Just look at the Pearl; following the opening of the Culinary Institute of America in 2008, the mixed-use development became a hotbed for dining, including Southern coastal eats at Southerleigh Fine Food & Brewery and new Asian American cuisine at Best Quality Daughter. Same with Southtown, where restaurants like Little Em’s Oyster Bar and Battalion are becoming must-visits for splurge meals. — Polly Anna Rocha

The 15 Essential San Antonio Restaurants

• When to visit: In April when Fiesta turns San Antonio into one big party, but if crowds aren’t your scene the city is gorgeous in early winter.
• Must-try: Chicken on a stick (with a jalapeno) from any Fiesta booth, breakfast tacos from any taqueria named for a Mexican state, and brisket from any place that has a line before it opens.

Markham, Canada

The most diverse city in Canada, Markham brings an amalgam of gastronomic riches from the Asian continent to its gleaming plazas and bustling streets.

For a decade, construction has sprawled across Markham, always augmenting the suburban Toronto enclave. These new buildings provided space for new immigrants, further diversifying a complex community, and for thriving local restaurants to expand. More often than not, those places spotlight Asian cuisines, from high-end Chinese restaurants to strip-mall Hakka noodles to Afghani kebab shops. It’s no wonder David Chang, who runs restaurants downtown, believes Markham has the best food in Toronto .

Canada wasn’t immune to the scourge of anti-Asian hate that rippled through the U.S. during the pandemic, and much of the xenophobic vitriol was aimed at workers in the service industry. At the same time, Toronto imposed a longer ban on indoor dining than other major cities. But when Ontario lifted most capacity limits in October, it roused restaurants, cafes, and bars from their slumber. Joints are jumping again, and the neighborhood has resumed its rocket growth. Don’t make a quick stop to Markham on your next trip to Toronto; plan your whole trip around Markham. — Faiyaz Kara

The 38 Essential Markham Restaurants

• Currency: Canadian dollar ($1 USD = 1.25 Canadian dollars)
• When to visit: Late spring and summer is patio season in Ontario, but restaurant season is year-round.
• Must-try: The dazzling array of eats at Asian shopping centers like Pacific Mall, First Markham Place, Langham Square, and J-Town.

St. Louis, Missouri

The mid-sized city, celebrated for its storied baseball, stately Forest Park (that dwarfs New York’s Central Park), esteemed museums, world-class zoo, and pork ribs.

“St. Louis has snuck its way into the top 15 restaurant destinations in America.” This is the kind of remark you might hear at cocktail parties in the last few years, as people “discovered” the Midwestern culinary capital. In this case I heard the line from prolific restaurateur Danny Meyer, a Lou native, who’s got some insight. “The reason is that the chef and restaurateur community is so tight and aligned on making their city shine,” he added.

It wasn’t the national media that made the scene blossom, but local chefs who share a unifying ethos: Through mutual support and mentorship, the community becomes stronger while everyone reaps individual success. This doctrine turns radical when adopted by an entire city. Competitors operate like one giant restaurant group. Established chefs like Qui Tran, veteran owner of the celebrated restaurants Nudo House and Mai Lee, regularly collab with up-and-comers, like Kurt Bellon’s mobile Japanese sando shop, Izumi, driving exposure and investment while keeping the dining scene fresh. And immigrant-owned businesses like Chiang Mai, Akar, and Diana’s Bakery thrive through the shared belief that respect and self-representation are the best ways to celebrate cuisines. — Holly Fann

The 26 Essential St. Louis Restaurants

• When to visit: Early autumn when the STL humidity dies down, catch a postseason baseball game or a St. Louis Symphony Orchestra concert in Forest Park.
• Must-try: St. Louis style cracker-crust pizza topped with Provel cheese and always cut in squares, with a side of toasted ravioli.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

A sparkling jumble of skyscrapers on the Persian Gulf in the UAE, a city transformed from desert to metropolis, and a melting pot for the country’s 9 million foreign workers who make up one of the most diverse communities of diners on the planet.

Oil, industrial manufacturing, global trade, and real estate have all contributed to Dubai’s economic rise, but in the 2000s the city hit it big with luxury tourism. Since then affluent travelers have flocked to the glittering metropolis to drink bubbly and dine in glamorous high-end restaurants. But 2,700 feet below the spire of the world’s tallest building, a buzzing network of down-to-earth cafeterias, markets, and cafes feeds the city’s largely immigrant population with a blend of Middle Eastern, South Asian, and East Asian cuisines.

During the COVID pandemic, the Emirates quickly achieved one of the highest vaccination rates in the world, and reopened to tourists for Expo 2020 Dubai, a huge world’s fair that acts as a cultural and technological showcase. The long-delayed Ain Dubai, the world’s largest Ferris wheel, finally opened as well. Visitors to these attractions kickstarted the recovery of the local restaurant industry too, especially combined with the Expo’s food court overflowing with innovative, sustainable dining concepts, and an explosion of home-based food businesses during the pandemic. This isn’t the Vegas of the Middle East; it’s better. — Rahma Khan

The 24 Essential Dubai Restaurants

• Currency: Dirham ($1 USD = 3.67 Dirhams)
• When to visit: November to February, when the days are hot but the temperature drops close to 68 after sunset and humidity is low.
• Must-try: Persian kebabs cooked with Indian masala (spices), paired with a cup of karak chai.

Clarkston, Georgia

A petite city just under 10 miles east of Atlanta, Clarkston is a rich, multicultural community, where half the 13,500 residents (including many asylum seekers) hail from over 50 countries on six continents.

While Georgia’s buzzy capital is home to a formidably diverse culinary scene, hyperconcentrated Clarkston is the self-proclaimed “Ellis Island of the South,” packing immigrant food businesses representing dozens of nations from around the world into just one square mile.

Beginning in the 1990s, Clarkston became a safe haven for refugees fleeing conflicts in countries like Somalia, Syria, Libya, Myanmar, Ukraine, and Nigeria. Its proximity to Atlanta, access to public transportation, and affordable housing continue to make it an ideal place for those seeking asylum in the metro area. As it has welcomed chefs, cooks, and bakers from around the world, Clarkston has become a gem on the Atlanta food scene. Nonprofits like Just Bakery and Refuge Coffee Co. offer paid job training with living wages, job opportunities, and chances to establish long-term economic security. In a single afternoon, diners can enjoy Ethiopian, Nepalese, Burmese, North Indian, Eritrean, and Vietnamese food — assuming they have the stomach capacity. — Beth McKibben

The 10 Essential Clarkston Restaurants

• When to visit: Any time of year. Atlanta’s coldest month is January (averaging 48 to 50 degrees), with its hottest and most humid month being July (averaging around 90 degrees).
• Must-try: Mohinga, a fish soup with rice noodles typically sold by street vendors in Myanmar, or bak kut teh, a fragrant pork rib soup often found in Singapore. Both are available at PS-Asian.

Mallorca, Spain

The largest of Spain’s Balearic Islands, where mass tourism dominates the sprawling sandy beaches, while those in the know explore the tiny aquamarine coves, limestone mountains, and agricultural heartland in search of a slower pace.

There’s more to Mallorca than sunscreen and cheap sangria. For years, chefs have pursued sustainable approaches to food and tourism, pushing away from the island’s shallow reputation for bargain beach vacations. But it was COVID-19 that cemented Mallorca’s locavore credentials. The pandemic slowed the inflow of visitors and foreign ingredients, and residents populated restaurants, challenging chefs to cater to local tastes with local ingredients. Rather than diminishing the restaurant scene, isolation strengthened it, with many old tourist traps replaced by modern establishments that put seasonal produce front and center.

More developed than Menorca and less glitzy than Ibiza, Mallorca offers a range of vibes, with chic rural retreats, medieval villages, ancient olive groves, and secret beaches, not to mention the seaside capital, Palma de Mallorca. And even as Mallorca turns somewhat inward, decades of global visitors, including international chefs working on the island today, have left indelible marks on local gastronomy. It’s even the Spanish royal family’s summer destination of choice, should you need another endorsement. — Isabelle Kliger

The 17 Essential Mallorca Restaurants

• Currency: Euro ($1 USD = 89 euro cents)
• When to visit: May to June and September to November to escape the high-season crush.
• Must-try: Ensaïmada Mallorquina, a powdered coil-shaped sweet bread, available from most bakeries and on any breakfast buffet worth its salt.

Orange County, California

The less-discussed Southern California area known for palm trees and glitzy malls begins to surf its own culinary wave thanks to incredible Vietnamese, Mexican, and Korean communities.

Summer sun, salty breeze, board shorts, burritos — this is the picture of Orange County painted by shows like The O.C. and Real Housewives of Orange County . That version of the O.C. does exist along the county’s 40 miles of coastline, but pop culture obscures the area’s 3.2 million real residents. They’re a diverse bunch, culturally and politically, and together they’re cooking some of the most interesting food in Southern California.

The region’s robust Vietnamese population (one of America’s largest) is growing to include second- and third-generation restaurant owners intent on pushing boundaries. Modern Mexican chefs are redefining relationships between ingredients and heritage, while taking political stands for equity and equality in a region that has, until recently, leaned red. In Anaheim’s Little Arabia District, sun-bleached strip malls swell with falafel, shawarma, and untold delights from across the Middle East. Now more than ever, Orange County’s culinary fortunes are on the rise. — Farley Elliott

The 38 Essential Orange County Restaurants

• When to visit: Basically year-round (this is Southern California, after all), but July to October for that perfect summer sun.
• Must-try: The tasting menu at the Michelin-starred Taco María, a perfect expression of the region’s beautifully complex relationship to Mexican cuisine.

Nantes, France

The historic capital of Brittany on the banks of the Loire river is among France’s best-in-class examples of urban renewal and sustainable living, only a few hours by train from Paris.

Nantes is among France’s fastest-growing small cities, quickly becoming a thriving nerve center for neo-bistros, bakeries, and wine bars. The city underwent a remarkable evolution in a decade, from post-industrial wasteland to cultural hub. It’s considerably more affordable than Paris, both to live in and to launch businesses from, and ranks high in quality of life. The “ville du futur” (city of the future) has attracted young, eco-minded transplants (two-thirds of residents are under 40 ) interested in supporting regional agriculture and contributing to a community of creatives and entrepreneurs.

Even before COVID-19, the steady stream of new arrivals included chefs, bakers, and sommeliers. Some were returning home, while others felt priced out of other dining industries. The pandemic turned that stream into a river, powering an exciting boom of modern, locavore bistros mixed with affordable fine dining, Japanese canteens, sourdough bakeries, pastry shops, coffee roasters, and natural wine bars, all centered on turning Nantes into France’s next great food capital. — Lindsey Tramuta

The 15 Essential Nantes Restaurants

• When to visit: Between early spring and mid-autumn for the best of seasonal dining.
• Must-try: Gâteau nantais, a moist regional cake made from almond flour, butter, sugar, and rum.

Buenos Aires, Argentina

South America’s lively metropolis, where there’s always something fun going down, especially for those who live to eat, drink, and socialize until the early hours of the morning.

Buenos Aires was under one of the world’s longest pandemic lockdowns, but that couldn’t quell Porteños’ culinary energy. These days the terraces are again buzzing with 20-somethings — glasses of vermouth, wine, and beer in hand — enjoying the rejuvenated dining scene.

The renewed vitality is clearest in Chacarita, which has quickly become the city’s epicenter of art, music, and dining. In the past few years, the former working class barrio has welcomed young creatives and entrepreneurs without losing its sense of community. This is especially true among chefs, who routinely pop up at each other’s restaurants, often leading to impromptu block parties. Meanwhile, red meat still reigns at traditional parrillas, but new restaurants are developing vegetable-centric menus as diners abandon their famously carnivorous habits . Plus the city’s tight-knit Koreatown has begun welcoming more culinary interest from outside the community. — Allie Lazar

The 38 Essential Buenos Aires Restaurants

• Currency: Argentine peso ($1 USD = 100.57 pesos; check unofficial “ blue rate ” before traveling)
• When to visit: Many find the weather to be ideal from March to May (fall) and October to December (spring). In November, the purple jacarandá trees are in full bloom.
• Must-try: Vermouth, steak, wine, helado, repeat.

Berkshires, Massachusetts

Located just a few hours from Boston and New York City, western Massachusetts’s Berkshire County is nestled between the Hoosac and Taconic mountain ranges, creating a natural sanctuary for arts, nightlife, agriculture, and dining.

During the pandemic, the Berkshires received a wave of transplants trading urban lockdowns for the serene woods, hills, and farmland of western Massachusetts. According to the Postal Service, the region saw the sixth greatest population growth among hundreds of similar areas in the U.S. The new arrivals were looking for a slower pace of life; they found a community with a proud agricultural history, chefs churning out locavore menus, and restaurateurs breathing new life into centuries-old architecture.

People have sought refuge in the Berkshires for generations, including artists like Herman Melville, Norman Rockwell, and Arlo Guthrie, and towns still orbit around cultural hubs like the Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center in Great Barrington and MASS MoCA in North Adams. Arts institutions and enclaves consistently drive money, diners, and inspiration to local food businesses, where chefs — much like artists — are always finding renewed inspiration in the land. — Stephanie Gravalese

The 31 Essential Berkshires Restaurants

• When to visit: The Berkshires are in full swing in summer, when the weather is warm, farms host outdoor dinners, and farmers markets overflow with fresh ingredients.
• Must-try: Pizza at Hilltown Hot Pies, where Rafi Bildner tells the story of local farms through fresh toppings, paired with some Berkshires cider.

Editorial lead: Nicholas Mancall-Bitel Editors: Lesley Suter, Erin DeJesus Creative director: Alyssa Nassner Contributors: Farley Elliott, Bill Esparza, Holly Fann, Stephanie Gravalese, Maria C. Hunt, Faiyaz Kara, Rahma Khan, Isabelle Kliger, Allie Lazar, Beth McKibben, Polly Anna Rocha, Jenn Tanaka, Lindsey Tramuta, Ian Poh Jin Tze Photographer: Liliana Espinosa Copy editors: Diana D’Abruzzo, Rachel P. Kreiter, Nadia Ahmad Fact checker: Kelsey Lannin Engagement editors: James Park, Carla Vianna, Milly McGuinness Project manager: Ellie Krupnick Special thanks to: Amanda Kludt, Matt Buchanan, Stephanie Wu Photos, in order: traveler1116 / Getty Images, Ian Poh Jin Tze, Ian Poh Jin Tze, Walter Bibikow / Getty Images, Bill Addison, Creative Touch Imaging Ltd / Getty Images, NurPhoto / Getty Images, Louie, Greg Rannells, Daryl Caluen / EyeEm, Andrew Hetherington, Andrew Hetherington, Artur Debat / Getty Images, A Restaurant, Farley Elliott, RossHelen / Getty Images, Laura Macías, Laura Macías, DenisTangneyJr / Getty Images

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Places to Travel for the Food Alone

If you’re anything like us, you love travel, and you love food. And when you combine the two, it’s like heaven on earth. But with so many countries to choose from, it can be a challenge figuring out which place to go to. That’s why we’ve created a list of places that are worth visiting for their food alone; there’s no better place to get great food than the original country itself, after all. So read on for the best food destinations in the world.

An island renowned for its culture and customs, Bali has a gastronomic scene as colourful and varied as its surroundings. Balinese food reflects the island’s history and the importance of food in their culture. It’s a celebration of local produce and cooking techniques.

Babi Guling is one of Bali’s signature foods, an exquisite roast suckling pig packed with a blend of spices, including turmeric, garlic, and ginger. The pig is roasted over an open flame, creating meat that is tasty and tender with crispy skin. Another must-try is Lawar, a typical salad with a combination of vegetables, coconut, and minced beef, all flavoured with a delicious blend of Balinese spices.

A local take on satay called “sate Lilit” is made with either minced chicken or fish mixed with spices, coconut, and lemongrass before being wrapped around bamboo sticks and cooked over a grill. The outcome is a tasty, smokey skewer that is ideal for a light supper or as a quick snack.

Bali offers a variety of sweet treats in addition to savoury ones. One well-known example is the Jaja Bali, a line of traditional Balinese cakes made with rice flour, coconut and palm sugar.

In addition to its breathtaking scenery and extensive history, Cape Town is a culinary lover’s paradise. The city’s rich multicultural population and its past as a trading hub are reflected in the culinary scene, which is a blend of many nationalities and influences.

“Bobotie” is one of Cape Town’s signature foods; it’s a traditional South African meal made with spicy minced pork and an egg-based topping. It’s usually served with yellow rice and sambals. The extraordinary fusion of spices, like turmeric and curry powder, gives the meal a comforting flavour that is warm and fragrant.

Because of its proximity to the seaside, seafood is also a staple in Cape Town. Calamari, mussels, and fish and chips are just a few delectable seafood selections. Numerous seafood restaurants can be found around the city’s harbour that serve fresh catches of the day prepared in a variety of ways to suit every palate.

In addition, street food vendors in Cape Town are well known for their mouthwatering offerings, which range from kebabs and samosas to bunny chow – a popular South African fast food delicacy made of a hollowed-out loaf of bread stuffed with curry.

Croatian food is a delicious fusion of many regional influences that reflect the historical and geographical diversity of the nation. Their cuisine is a unique blend of flavours that will please even the pickiest palates, drawing inspiration from its lush inland valleys, mountainous terrains, and rich coastal districts.

Seafood is a staple of Croatian cuisine, particularly along the breathtaking Adriatic coast. Enjoy locally produced olive oil, herbs, and freshly caught fish, mussels, and oysters that are typically served grilled. Classic recipes like “buzara,” a savoury but straightforward preparation of shellfish, and “brodet,” a rich fish stew, are must-tries.

The food in the inland regions is heartier and more rustic, with an assortment of grilled meats, sausages, and stews. A traditional meal to try is “cevapi,” tender grilled minced meat accompanied by flatbread and “ajvar,” a sauce made with red pepper.

Using truffles in food is a distinctive feature of Croatian cooking, especially in the Istrian region. These aromatic mushrooms enhance meals like risotto, omelettes, and pasta by contributing a rich, complex flavour. Istria in itself is a must for their food.

A trip to Croatia would not be complete without indulging in some of its delicious pastries and desserts, such “kremšnita,” a slice of creamy custard, and “strudel,” a flaky pastry stuffed with sweet fillings like apple or cherry.

Japan is renowned for its mouthwatering, flavourful cuisine that is both diverse and beautifully presented. Fresh, premium ingredients are a staple in Japanese cuisine, and skilled chefs expertly prepare the dishes.

One of the most famous foods in Japan is sushi, which perfectly captures the spirit of Japanese cooking. In this delicate art form, fresh fish or vegetables are served with carefully seasoned vinegared rice, creating a symphony of flavours that highlight the inherent taste of each ingredient. Another well-liked meal is sashimi, a thinly sliced raw fish loved for its simplicity and freshness.

A wide variety of other foods are also included in Japanese cuisine, such as yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) and tempura (battered and deep-fried seafood or vegetables). In addition, many traditional Japanese recipes call for seasonal ingredients like chestnuts in the autumn and cherry blossoms in the spring.

Mochi is a popular traditional treat made of sticky rice cake that can be filled with fresh fruit or sweet fillings like red bean paste. Dorayaki is another popular one, consisting of two little pancakes filled with delicious red bean paste. You should also try taiyaki and, of course, matcha.

Mexican cuisine is a feast for the senses, with flavours ranging from zesty and spicy to sweet and savoury; one of the best foodie destinations.

Tacos are an essential component of any discussion about Mexican food. This famous meal, a hallmark of Mexican cuisine, is served at restaurants and on street corners nationwide. The simple taco embodies the essence of Mexican culinary philosophy – expertly prepared, bursting with flavour and simple ingredients. There is a taco for every taste, ranging from fish and vegetarian to carnitas and al pastor.

Another delectable dish from Mexico is mole, a thick, complex sauce prepared from a mixture of chocolate, spices, and chiles, among other things. Every region has a distinct mole, with differences in ingredients and cooking techniques.

In addition to its savoury cuisine, Mexico is also famous for its mouthwatering sweets, such as dulce de leche, a sweet milk-based delicacy, and churros, a deep-fried pastry covered in sugar and cinnamon. These sweets are the ideal way to wrap up a Mexican feast.

Morocco has a distinct and delectable food culture as a result of the influences of Arabic, Berber, and French cuisines. It’s an absolutely delightful fusion of tastes, aromas, and colours that reflects the diversity and long history of the nation.

Couscous is one of the most well-known dishes in Moroccan cuisine, a staple made from steamed semolina wheat and usually served with meat, vegetables, and a flavourful broth. Tagine is another typical meal: a gorgeous stew simmered with meat, vegetables, and a number of spices, such as saffron, cumin, and ginger. Tagines are often cooked in a traditional clay pot, which gives the dish its name.

A wide variety of delectable breads are also served in Moroccan cuisine, including khobz, a round flatbread that is an integral component of most meals. Moroccan street food is another thing you shouldn’t miss. Kebabs, grilled sardines, and savoury pastries stuffed with meat or vegetables can be found on street stalls and markets and are truly fantastic. Don’t miss out.

Various tasty pastries and desserts are also beautifully crafted in Morocco, such as baklava, a sweet pastry made with layers of filo dough, honey, and nuts. Moroccan mint tea is a beloved beverage frequently served with meals.

Of course, Italy has to be on this list. It’s famous for a reason: the use of fresh, high-quality ingredients, simple preparation methods and rich culinary traditions give it a title that can never be taken away. Many say it’s the best vacation for foodies. Italian cuisine is also quite varied, with each region having its own specialities and delicacies.

Pasta has become one of the most iconic foods in the world, let alone in Italian cooking. Coming in hundreds of varieties and sizes appropriate for varying sauces and cooking methods, you won’t find pasta better anywhere else other than in Italy. Another essential is pizza, originating from Naples, which is precisely where you should get it from.

The regional dishes in Italian cuisine reflect the respective local ingredients and cooking customs of each region. For example, in the northern regions of Italy, you’ll find dishes made from polenta and risotto. In the south, dishes are frequently made with fresh vegetables, olive oil and fish.

We can’t fail to mention Italy’s well-known desserts, like panna cotta and tiramisu. Of course, another must-try is gelato. You can sample classic flavours like chocolate and vanilla to more unique choices like lavender and basil. Coffee culture is also significant in Italy. But drinking it in the afternoon is not very common.

Thailand’s rich cultural legacy and diverse regional landscapes are reflected in the cuisine, a dynamic tapestry of tastes, textures, and fragrances. Thai cuisine is well known for combining flavours that are harmoniously sweet, salty, sour, and spicy to create dishes that are flavourful and incredibly complex.

The essence of Thai cuisine is the careful balancing act of fresh and aromatic ingredients, such as Thai basil, lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime leaves. Many Thai recipes benefit from the unique and fragrant flavour profile that these herbs and spices provide, including the well-known “Tom Yum Goong”, a hot and sour soup with prawns, mushrooms, and a healthy dosage of chilli.

Thai cuisine is largely centred around street food, and a trip to Thailand would only be complete with trying some of the delectable dishes from the numerous stands that line the streets. The diversity is astounding, from bowls of creamy and soothing noodle soup to skewers of exquisite grilled meats.

The regional diversity of Thai food is another distinguishing feature. Every region has its own distinctive cuisine, ranging from the delicate and flowery tastes of the north to the hot curries of the south. But one thing that remains consistent, is the Thai people’s love of colourful flavours and their dedication to using only the best, freshest ingredients. Thailand’s cuisine will leave you wanting more and more; it’s one of the best places to travel for food in the world.

With a big love for travel photography and writing, Greta is the voice behind the blog for the English audience, passionate about discovering and sharing the very best in travel.

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34 Best Foodie Cities in the World

Traveling for food is both our business and our passion. Discover 25 ‘foodie cities’ that have wowed us with their vibrant food cultures plus nine additional cities at the top of our list for future food trips.

Food and travel are intertwined for food travelers like us. At last count, we’ve traveled through more than 80 different cities in the last 5 years and all our travels have centered around food.

Not only do we enjoy eating new-to-us dishes in destinations around the world, but food experiences also provide us with a gateway to a city’s culture and its people.

We fondly remember entering a sushi joint at 8am in Osaka and observing a fish market employee, cigarette in hand, enjoying his first meal of the day. When we’re not traveling, we adore being warmly greeted by the septuagenarian owners of our favorite Lisbon tasca since we now live in Portugal .

We don’t find these dishes and experiences by accident. Instead, we do tons of advance travel planning as well as on-the-ground research to get the pulse of a city’s local food scene. Sure, it’s extra work, but the rewards more than exceed the efforts – especially when those rewards involve pizza, noodles and dessert .

Subscribe to our email list . You’ll receive a free downloadable guide to eating like a local when you travel. It includes tricks and techniques for finding great food wherever you travel.

Our Picks for the Best Foodie Cities in the World

Choosing our favorite foodie destinations is like picking a favorite child. But some cities excel so much with their food cultures that they stand out above the rest. These are our top foodie cities:

The massive city of Bangkok teems with vendors selling food on the street, in hawker centers and at floating markets. The city’s bustling Chinatown is especially impressive with its colorful sites, tantalizing tastes and exotic aromas.

We thought we knew all about Thai food after living in Chiang Mai for a month in 2016. And then Bangkok smacked us in the face, culinarily overloading us with a food culture that doesn’t stop from dawn until dawn.

Returning to Bangkok in 2018, we visited a floating market and ate our weight in street food during a Bangkok food tour . However, our favorite Bangkok memories involve strolling down alleys and randomly eating amazing food like salt crusted tilapia (Pla Pao), stir fried noodles (Pad se Ew) and shrimp with glass noodles (Goong Ob Woonsen) at all hours of the day and night.

Discover our Thai food favorites .

To be clear, street food is only part of Bangkok’s food story. The Thai capital has restaurants at all price points including Michelin starred restaurants like Gaggan . There’s even a Michelin starred street food restaurant, Raan Jay Fai, that serves omelettes loaded with fresh crabmeat.

The megacity also has a diverse range of international restaurants that serve classic food more typical in nearby countries like Japan and Taiwan.

Bangkok is a must visit stop in Thailand. It’s that special.

Top Things to Eat in Bangkok Goong Ob Woonsen (Ginger Shrimp and Glass Noodles), Pad Thai, Pla Pao (Grilled Salt-Crusted Fish) and Tom Yum Goong (Lemongrass Shrimp Soup)

If Naples just had pizza, it would be enough to qualify the southern Italian city to rank as one of the world’s great foodie cities. But, as it turns out, Neapolitan pizza is just one part of the Naples food story.

Like many before and after us, pizza was our primary reason for visiting Naples for the first time in 2014. Not only did the pizza exceed our expectations, but it also motivated us to return for a month in 2017 and a week in 2020.

Read our Naples Pizza Guide .

But we didn’t just eat pizza during these trips to Naples. We jumped into the city’s unique coffee culture and discovered a local food culture that embraces local farm products like tomatoes literally grown on volcanic soil at nearby Mount Vesuvius and fresh fish caught in the Bay of Naples.

Food favorites in Naples include Pasta alla Genovese and Pesce Crudo, not to mention Fiocco di Neve, our new favorite sweet and a solid contender to replace the Sfogliatella as the best pastry in Naples. However, pizza will be number one on our agenda when we return to Naples yet again.

Top Things to Eat & Drink in Naples Neapolitan Pizza, Coffee, Fiocco di Neve, Mozzarella di Buffala, Pasta Genovese, Pizza Frite (Fried Pizza) and Sfogliatella

Paris is always a good idea whether you’re a lover of art, architecture, history or especially food. The city is nothing short of a veritable smorgasbord with temptations hiding in plain site on every street and in every arrondissement.

We first visited Paris together in 2012 and have since revisited a half dozen times including three trips in 2019, one in 2020 and yet again in 2022. If you’re suspecting that Paris is one of our very favorite food cities in Europe, you are correct.

Even still, we have one issue every time we visit – an overabundance of Parisian food favorites . Deciding between Steak Frites and Steak Tartare is a real challenge and don’t get us started about choosing among never ending rows of macarons, cakes and pastries at our favorite Paris patisseries .

Read our Paris Food Guide .

The restaurants in Paris are our raison d’être . From gastronomic Michelin starred temples like L’Arpege to intimate, energetic, internationally influenced dining rooms like Le Rigmarole to classic bistros like Paul Bert , the powerhouse dining doesn’t stop.

Paris has bargains for people like us who are willing to do some research and make advance reservations. But this this is also a city that justifies a splurge or two because it’s Paris after all.

We also love the city’s vast range of internationally influenced dining – Japanese, Chinese, Italian and Israeli. It’s all there. Plus, the wine flows freely and there’s nothing wrong with that.

Top Things to Eat & Drink in Paris Baguettes, Croissants, Pastries, Steak Frites, Steak Tartare and Wine

4. Charleston

Charleston has high standards when it comes to food. These standards don’t just apply to fancy food, as the charming city has more than its fair share of both highfalutin restaurants and down-and-dirty diners.

We stopped in Charleston during our 2016 US road trip and dove right into the city’s dining scene by eating at FIG and Husk . The two nationally-recognized restaurants wowed us with their modern interpretations of Southern foods like Carolina Gold Rice and locally raised pork.

There’s nothing more comforting than chowing down on buttery shrimp and grits in Charleston, especially the luxurious version at Husk. And then there’s classic southern barbecue like whole hog, cooked low and slow and served on a sandwich, at Rodney Scott’s BBQ .

Top Things to Eat in Charleston Barbecue, Shrimp & Grits, Fine Dining, Low Country Classics and Modern Southern Cuisine

With a nickname like La Grassa (the fat one), Bologna may very well be Italy’s most gastronomic city. This status is no accident. Bologna is literally situated in the heart of Emilia Romagna , otherwise known as Italy’s Food Valley .

Discover more great Italian food citie s including two in the Food Valley.

We first visited Bologna as tourists in 2010 and have since returned a half dozen times. The Italian city known for its porticoes has become a bit of a touchstone for us. Each time we return, we revisit favorite trattorias but also find new spots for eating pasta and other local food favorites.

Read our Bologna Food Guide .

Over the years, we’ve taken cooking classes to learn how to make tortellini the old fashioned way. Usually, though, we prefer to let local chefs cook Bologna classics like Tagliatelle al Ragu, Gramigna with Sausage, Lasagna Verdi al Forno and Tortellini in Brodo

Beyond fresh pasta, Bologna is justifiably famous for products like mortadella , the inspiration for baloney in America, and gelato . Home to gelato machine factory Carpigiani , many of the world’s best gelato makers learned their craft here.

Top Things to Eat & Drink in Bologna Gelato, Gramigna with Sausage, Lambrusco, Lasagna Verdi al Forno, Mortadella, Tagliatelle al Ragu and Tortellini in Brodo

With a reputation for eating until they drop, the people in Osaka don’t mess around when it comes to Japanese food . Their city, nicknamed Tenka no Daidokoro (the nation’s kitchen), is nothing short of an Asian food city paradise filled with vendors selling Okonomiyaki and Takoyaki throughout the city.

We weren’t Japan first-timers when we spent two weeks in Osaka in 2016, though it was our first time eating our way through the country’s snack food capital. We’re pleased to report that we found all the Japanese food of our dreams in this city equally defined by kooky kitsch and culinary creativity.

Read our Osaka Food Guide .

Like many food travelers who visit Osaka , we spent a good bit of time eating snack food on neon-lit Dotonbori Street and sushi in the Kuromon Ichiba Market. Without doubt, both are worthy activities. But Osaka is also city where it’s possible to experience a multi-course Kappao meal and cook your own Kobe beef at Korean-inspired Yakiniku barbecue restaurants in the city’s intimate Tenma neighborhood.

Osaka has one of the most impressive spas we’ve ever visited. We recommend a visit to Spa World between snacks. If you get hungry, you can eat there too. Better yet save room for a bowl of ramen .

Top Things to Eat & Drink in Osaka Kappo, Okonomiyaki, Ramen, Sake, Sushi, Takoyaki and Yakiniku

While Paris is France’s capital and most famous city, Lyon is arguably the country’s food capital. This is not a new development. Lyon has beckoned food travelers for decades if not longer.

The French food city hit our radar when gastronomic relatives waxed poetically about eating Volaille de Bresse en Vessie, Paul Bocuse’s infamous dish featuring a chicken cooked in a pig’s bladder, at the late chef’s Lyon restaurant. Two of America’s greatest French chefs, George Perrier and Daniel Boulud also hail from Lyon.

We made our first pilgrimage to Lyon in 2012 and later returned for a month in 2016. That wasn’t enough – hence our third visit in 2019 and our most recent visit in 2021. Phew!

Read our Lyon Food Guide .

We weren’t the first to fall for Lyon’s culinary charms and we won’t be the last. The city lives and breathes French cuisine at all levels from its market named after the late Chef Bucose to its finest restaurants. For us, though, the best way to eat in Lyon is in the middle.

The city has a slew of casual restaurants called bouchons that serve homemade comfort food like Quenelle de Brochet, Pâté en Croûte and Salade Lyonniase, the city’s namesake salad with frisée, lardons and a poached egg. These bouchons are the heart of the city’s food scene and where we made valuable contacts that opened the city’s culinary doors for us.

The city also has a growing community of young chefs pushing the culinary envelope without big staffs or big price tags. Dining at modern Lyon restaurants provides a sneak peak into the bright future of French cuisine.

Top Things to Eat & Drink in Lyon Pâté en Croûe, Quenelle de Brochet, Pink Praline, Rosette de Lyon, Salade Lyonniase, St. Marcellin Cheese and Wine

8. Copenhagen

If you traveled back in time to 2003 and guessed that Copenhagen would be one of the greatest food cities in the world you probably would have generated a chuckle from Danes. At the time, Danish cuisine primarily consisted of fish and potatoes.

2003 was the debut year of Noma, the pioneer of what has since been called New Nordic Cuisine. Since then, Klaus Meyer and Chef Renée Redzepi have proven that excellent food can be locally sourced and artfully prepared. And at the same time, Copenhagen’s food scene has grown exponentially.

Get the scoop on our epic dinner at Noma including photos of every dish .

Today, Copenhagen is a magnet for young chefs from all over the world looking to discover new skills while proving their mettle in the kitchens at the best Copenhagen restaurants . Beyond upscale dining, the city has a plethora of incredible baked goods, especially layered pastries and sourdough breads, along with a host of chef-driven international cuisine.

We ate it all when we finally made it to Copenhagen in 2021. Not only did we experience an epic meal at Noma, but we also ate barbecue, tacos, pizza, pasta as well as our weight in pastries. We also drank a lot of coffee since Copenhagen has almost as many coffee shops as it has bakeries .

Top Things to Eat & Drink in Copenhagen New Nordic Cuisine, Global Cuisine, Pastries, Rød Pølse (Hot Dogs), Specialty Coffee and Smørrebrød (Open Face Sandwiches)

Taipei comes alive at night. This is when night markets open and the city’s streets become culinary playgrounds filled with stalls and people.

We visited Taipei in 2018 as a port of call during our epic Asia cruise . This short visit was long enough to validate Taipei’s position as one of the best cities for foodies in the world.

Discover the best places to eat in Taipei .

Taipei famously comes alive at night but Taiwan’s capital still hums during the day. We found plenty to eat and drink during our relatively short visit.

Armed with a plan and two healthy appetites, we conquered the city by eating beef noodle soup at a noodle shop, scallion pancakes at a local street vendor, shaved mango ice at a dessert spot and soup dumplings at the original Din Tai Fung . We also drank bubble tea (a/k/a pearl milk tea) filled with tapioca balls because that’s what you drink in Taiwan.

Top Things to Eat & Drink in Taipei Bubble Tea, Gua Bao (Taiwanese Hamburgers), Rou Mian (Beef Noodle Soup), Scallion Pancakes, Shaved Ice, Three Cup Chicken and Xiaolongbao (Soup Dumplings)

10. New Orleans

Living by the motto – laissez les bons temps rouler / let the good times roll , along with its port location and a history filled with international influences, makes New Orleans one of America’s great food cities.

Our first joint trip to New Orleans in 2009 was far from our last; in fact, we’ve returned five times since then so far. We dig the city’s vibe, music, cocktails and food , all of which have been influenced by a blending of cultures from the likes of France, Italy, Vietnam and the Caribbean.

Read our Cheap Eats New Orleans Guide .

The blending of these disparate cultures is nowhere more apparent than in Cajun and Creole dishes like Crawfish Étouffée, Gumbo and Jambalaya . Flavored with exotic spices and bursting with flavor, these dishes pack a punch into every bite.

Food travelers can live large at i conic New Orleans restaurants at night and indulge in cheaper eats during the day. We’ve done both but prefer the latter. When it comes to eating Po Boys and fried chicken , we rarely say no in New Orleans.

Top Things to Eat & Drink in New Orleans Beignets, Cocktails, Fried Chicken, Gumbo, Jambalaya, Muffalettas and Po Boys

11. Montreal

Montreal isn’t just one of the best food cities in Canada – it’s also one of the best food cities in the world. Located near the Saint Lawrence River north of New York, the Quebecois city is a food lover’s paradise with poutine available on a 24/7 basis.

While poutine may have been our gateway food when we first visited Montreal in 2008, it wasn’t the food that motivated us to return three more times including a bitterly cold month-long visit in 2017. In fact, we can’t pick just one food. We love all of the food in Montreal .

Read our Montreal Restaurant Guide .

Food permeates Montreal’s culture at markets like Jean Talon and at cafes and restaurants throughout the city. Not afraid of icy streets and air that freezes their tears, locals trek out in sub-zero weather, packing iconic Montreal restaurants like Au Pied de Cochon and L’Express with no trepidation.

We’d be remiss not to mention Montreal bagels. Smaller than the New York version and made with honey, these crunchy bagels fuel a lively debate with bagel lovers from New York.

Top Things to Eat in Montreal Bagels, Maple Syrup, Olive Fougasse, Pouding Chômeur, Poutine and Smoked Meat

Food is an integral part of life for the eight million people who call Vietnam’s capital home. Phở may be the signature dish in Hanoi where the iconic noodle soup was invented, but dishes like Bún Chả and Chả Cá are equally popular in this foodie city.

Hanoi initially captivated Mindi back in 2002 and then did the same to both of us when we spent a month eating our way through the Northern Vietnam city 14 years later. We returned in 2018 to do eat even more Vietnamese food .

Read our Hanoi Food Guide .

Of all the best food cities in Vietnam, Hanoi is our favorite.

We adore the purity of Hanoi Pho , a dish that doesn’t rely on sauces and herbs for its deep flavor. We also appreciate Bún Chả – grilled pork patties with rice vermicelli, Phở Cuốn – rice rolls stuffed with grilled meat, Chả Cá – tumeric spiced fish with an assortment of local ingredients and Egg Coffee – a decadent, sweet yolky beverage that doubles as dessert.

Top Things to Eat & Drink in Hanoi Banh Cuon, Bún Chả, Chả Cá, Egg Coffee, Phở, Phở Cuốn and Snails

13. New York City

With eight million people living in five boroughs, New York City is the American city with the country’s widest assortment of food options. To riff on the city’s theme song – if you can eat it anywhere, you can eat it there.

We’ve spent a lot of time in New York City, both separately and together. Mindi worked and lived in Manhattan for eight years, and Daryl commuted to the city for that same time period. Though our paths didn’t cross until we both lived in Philadelphia , we’ve since been to NYC together more times than we have fingers and toes.

Read our New York Pizza Guide .

Our favorite New York foods skew on the casual side and we never tire of eating bagels and lox , pizza , hamburgers and Pastrami Sandwiches. But we also enjoy dining at upscale restaurants like Gramercy Tavern and Le Coucou .

However, since New York is the nation’s ultimate melting pot, some of its best restaurants don’t serve any of the city’s iconic foods. They instead serve food more typically eaten in countries like China, Japan, India, Israel, Italy and South Korea.

Top Things to Eat in New York City Bagels with Lox, Cheesecake, Chopped Cheese, Global Cuisine, Hamburgers, Hot Dogs, Pastrami Sandwiches, Pizza and Steak

14. Mexico City

Mexico City isn’t just one of the best street food cities in North America. It’s one of the continent’s best food cities. Period.

We has this revelation back in 2008 while eating our way through the enormous city for a week. Street food struck us first – a city-wide maze of food stands selling tacos, esquites and fried corndogs – and then we went to Mercado Merced, a gigantic market with enough avocados, nopales, peppers and moles to satisfy a lifetime of Mexican food dreams.

But Mexico City is also a city with top restaurants like Pujol , currently named one of the top 50 best restaurants in the entire world. Without doubt, dining at Pujol in its original space was a highlight of our visit but so was eating escamoles, ceviche and grilled fish in more casual restaurants.

However, the Taco al Pastor is the Mexico City food favorite we can’t get out of our minds. We could happily eat corn tortillas stuffed with grilled pork, sliced onions, sweet pineapple and fresh cilantro for both lunch and dinner. When we return to Mexico City, perhaps that’s what we’ll do.

Top Things to Eat in Mexico City Ceviche, Escamoles, Esquites, Tamales and Tacos al Pastor

Spain’s capital impresses with its sophisticated vibe, grand architecture and striking art. It’s also a serious food city with too many restaurants to sample in one visit. Trust us – we tried . While many of these restaurants serve traditional Spanish dishes, others focus on global cuisines like ramen and trendy concepts like brunch.

Madrid’s food focus is nothing new. One of its restaurants, Botin , has been open since 1725 and ranks as the oldest restaurant in the world. Famous for its age and roast suckling pig, Botin isn’t the only Madrid restaurant that spans the centuries. It’s also not the only restaurant worth a visit.

While more than 20 Madrid’s restaurants have earned Michelin stars, many of its most popular restaurants serve tapas and are the opposite of fancy. Those tapa bars are fun to visit as part of a self-guided Madrid food crawl unless you’d rather visit them during a more formal food tour.

For most visitors, including us, eating Churros Con Chocolate is an absolute must. Since dipping fried dough into liquid chocolate never tasted as good to us as it did in Madrid, we recommend eating Churros con Chocolate for breakfast unless you’d rather eat Churros con Chocolate as a sweet snack. Better yet, do both.

Top Things to Eat & Drink in Madrid Bocadillos de Calamares, Churros, Gambas al Ajillo, Huevos Rotos, Jamón Ibérico, Patatas Bravas, Tortilla Española, Vermouth and Wine

16. Chengdu

Traveling to Chengdu is a commitment. The Sichuan city is 1,200 miles, give or take, from both Beijing and Shanghai.

But for fans of hot food and passionate panda lovers, Chengdu’s charms far exceed its logistical challenges. This is a city where Sichuan flower peppers combine with hot local chiles to form the spicy yet numbing ma-la profile that sends diners into a red hot sweat.

But let’s start with the pandas. Chengdu is one of the best places in the world to observe the seemingly cuddly critters along with their red haired, fox-like cousins. Within moments of seeing them, it’s obvious that pandas like to eat… a lot. But you’ll need to see the pandas early. After the cute bears munch on inordinate amounts of bamboo, they sleep all day.

Now for the food. No, we didn’t eat pandas – that would be both wrong and illegal. Instead, we indulged in Hot Pot (twice) as well as Mapo Tofu , Dan Dan Noodles and Kung Pao Chicken.

One of us also indulged in an ACM (Ancient Chinese Medicine) ritual of cupping and scraping, but that’s a different story for a different day.

Top Things to Eat in Chengdu Dan Dan Noodles, Hot Pot, Kung Pao Chicken, Mapo Tofu and Smoked Duck

Pasta is available all over Italy but Rome is the best city to eat pasta’s holy quadrinity – Alla Gricia , Amatriciana , Carbonara and Cacio e Pepe . Each of these pastas is deceptively simple and they’re all equally divine.

We first visited Rome during a whirlwind Italy trip in 2009 and didn’t return for 11 years. Eating Cacio e Pepe was revelatory during that trip. Why it took us so long to return is beyond us.

Discover our Rome food favorites .

Upon our belated return, we rediscovered the joy of eating pasta in Rome. But we didn’t stop there. We also ate Carciofi alla Giudia and Jewish Pizza, both remnants of the city’s previously thriving Jewish population, as well as Pizza al Taglio, Porhetta and numerous cones of what may be the best gelato in the world.

Discover the best gelato shops in Rome as well as the city’s best coffee shops , pizzerias and restaurants .

We also discovered new dishes like sweet Maritozzi pastries and savory Trapizzino, a pizza/sandwich hybrid that’s now a Rome street food staple. However, our most surprising discovery was Rome’s small but thriving specialty coffee scene that’s shaking up the city’s traditional cafe culture one cup at a time.

Top Things to Eat & Drink in Rome Carciofi alla Giudia, Craft Beer, Gelato, Pasta (Alla Gricia, Amatriciana, Carbonara and Cacio e Pepe), Jewish Pizza, Pizza al Taglio, Porchetta, Trapizzino, Tripa alla Romagna and Wine

18. Shanghai

Food options in Shanghai are extensive enough to fuel residents of the world’s third most populous city. Travelers are welcome to join the frenzy in one of China’s best foodie cities.

We first visited Shanghai in 2009 when the city was covered in a cloud of dust as the it prepped for the 2010 World Expo. That didn’t stop us from slurping soup dumplings around the city and returning in 2018 to do it again.

Eight years can make a difference in any city but Shanghai’s evolution was extraordinary. In less than a decade, the number of high-rise buildings had increased exponentially as had the number of designer shops and shopping malls.

But even with its growth, Shanghai has thus far retained the soul of its food culture. Vendors still sell Scallion Pancakes and a dizzying array of street food while noodle houses continue to serve a non-stop parade of Lamian Noodles and Soup Dumplings, both fried (Sheng Jian Bao) and boiled (Xiaolongbao.)

Top Things to Eat in Shanghai Cong You Bing (Scallion Pancakes) Lamian Noodles, Sheng Jian Bao (Fried Soup dumplings), Xiaolongbao (Soup Dumplings) and Zongzi (Rice Wrapped in Bamboo Leaves)

Numerous global cities claim to be culinary melting pots. London is one that lives up to this claim and does so with a vengeance. We’ve eaten our way through the city so many times that we’ve lost count of the many global dishes we’ve devoured.

Whether we crave Hong Kong style dumplings or loaded Lebanese kababs, London has it in droves. The same goes for Neapolitan pizza and Vietnamese pho. The city even has Philly cheesesteaks. Those need some work though .

Discover our London food favorites .

Sure, the city’s pubs and restaurants still serve traditional London food favorites like Sunday Roast, Full English Breakfasts and the omnipresent Fish & Chips. But a stroll down Brick Lane into Shoreditch reveals bagels topped with salt beef and smoked salmon as well as restaurants serving a mix of Indian and Bangladeshi dishes.

Upon journeying a bit further, London markets in neighborhoods like Brixton and Hackney sell a diversity of foods associated with Asia, Africa and the Middle East. As a bonus, these markets are more affordable than most London restaurants. Let’s face it, London is a lot of things but cheap isn’t one of them.

Top Things to Eat & Drink in London Beer, Dim Sum, Fish & Chips, Full English Breakfast, Indian Food, Middle Eastern Food, Scotch Eggs and Sunday Roast

Although Portuguese food is one of the factors that motivated our move to Lisbon , Porto is the Portuguese city that excites us most and is the one that gets a spot on this list. Porto’s food impressed us when we first visited as honeymooners in 2007 and it continues to impress us as Portuguese residents.

Discover more cities in Portugal that are great foodie destinations for food travelers.

Blessed by its location on the Douro River and with a long history of producing fortified wine for an international clientele, Porto’s status as a culinary powerhouse is almost inevitable. Port Wine is just one piece of the Porto food puzzle.

Discover our Porto food favorites .

Porto offers food travelers a complete dining experience ranging from traditional food at simple tascas to elevated dining at sophisticated restaurants. We’ve done both and have also ventured to nearby Matosinhos where we ate wonderful seafood and enjoyed an epic Michelin starred meal on two separate occasions.

Read our Porto restaurant guide .

However, snack food is where Porto’s culinary star shines brightest. The city excels at three different sandwiches – Francesinha, Sandes de Pernil and Bifana – each a potential signature sandwich. And that’s not counting Hot Dogs and Rissóis. Just writing about Porto’s snack food makes us hungry.

Top Things to Eat & Drink in Porto Eclairs, Francesinha, Hot Dogs, Sandes de Pernil, Port, Seafood and Wine

Tokyo is a megacity that believes in the concept that more is more especially when it comes to food.

The city has an extensive network of restaurants from neighborhood izakayas to an inordinate number of Michelin starred restaurants. In the 2021 guide, 212 Tokyo restaurants garnered a total of 278 stars.

Discover dozens of Japanese food favorites to eat in Tokyo and beyond .

Tokyo is a city where fast food is prepared to a higher standard than anywhere else in the world. The level of culinary excellence at the starred restaurants, whether they serve Sushi or Italian cuisine , is off the charts.

We ate at two of those upscale restaurants (two-starred Florilege and one-starred Bird Land ) during our 2013 romp around Tokyo. Both meals were memorable experiences. But we had equally memorable meals eating Ramen, Sushi and Soba at less notable restaurants. In some ways, those were our favorite meals in Tokyo.

Top Things to Eat in Tokyo Ramen, Sashimi, Soba, Sushi, Udon, Tempura and Yakitori

22. Hong Kong

Hong Kong is another city that we first visited in 2009. Arriving in this modern city after traveling for a month in China was both exhilarating and comforting. Returning nine years later was like coming home to food that we adore.

Hong Kong excels at Cantonese food. Dim Sum sets the pace with a variety of dumplings and fried treats.

Discover 5 tasty Hong Kong food experiences .

As the city evolves, not always in a positive way, Dim Sum houses like the legendary Lin Heung are becoming scarcer in the center of town. To us, this just makes the remaining dumpling houses all the more precious.

Beyond Dim Sum, char siu pork, soy sauce chicken and roast goose make the city a roast meat nirvana. Bamboo pole noodles called Jook-Sing Mein, also a growing rarity, also contribute to the city’s amazing food culture.

Top Things to Eat & Drink in Hong Kong Afternoon Tea, Bamboo Pole Noodles, Char Siu, Claypot Rice, Dim Sum and Roast Duck

Most people solely think of Vienna as a city of culture thanks to past residents that include Ludwig van Beethoven, Gustav Klimt, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Franz Schubert. We were two of those people when we separately visited Vienna in the 1990s. It’s not that we were wrong back then. Rather, we hadn’t yet gotten the memo about Vienna’s vibrant food scene.

The good news is that we not only got the memo before our 2022 return visit, but we also read it. In other words, we arrived in Vienna ready to eat the city’s best food starting with its most famous food – Wiener Schnitzel.

Discover our Vienna food favorites .

Eating traditional Austrian dishes like Wiener Schnitzel and Wiener Wurstel is a must in Vienna, but those classic dishes aren’t the only things to eat in Vienna. The city’s restaurants serve a range of cuisines from countries located in Asia and the Middle East. Vienna markets are equally diverse with their selection of both local and international products.

It’s no surprise that Vienna has a collection of classic cafes that serve decadent desserts and Viennese coffee drinks, but the city also has several modern cafes that specialize in crafting flat whites and pour overs. Wine flows freely too. Some Vienna bars pour locally produced varietals like Grüner Veltliner while others focus on natural wines.

Top Things to Eat & Drink in Vienna Apfelstrudel, Erdäpfelsalat, Sachertorte, Viennese Coffee, Wiener Schnitzel, Wiener Wurstel and Wine

If we had to pick one word to describe Delhi, it would be chaotic. Nearly 30 million people live in India’s capital city. They also eat curries and sip chai tea in numbers that are difficult for most food travelers to comprehend.

One of us, Mindi, experienced Delhi’s chaos and food first-hand during a 2018 adventure that thrust her into the heart of the action within hours of landing in India. Returning to the mega-city a week later, she dug into the local food scene by taking a food tour in and around Old Delhi’s Chandni Chowk street market.

Foods like Daulat Ki Chaat and Paratha made their marks during that tour but none were more surprising than the seemingly simple pastry sold at Jalebi Wala. A local favorite since the latter part of the 19th century, jalebi is a food icon that represents India well.

Delhi’s food scene also features a myriad of fine dining options that range from good to great. But for those with a streak of culinary curiosity and a sense of adventure, there’s nowhere better to eat in Delhi than with the people on the street.

Top Things to Eat & Drink in Delhi Biryani, Butter Chicken, Chai, Daulat Ki Chaat, Jalebi and Paratha

25. Barcelona

Far from a hidden gem, Barcelona is a dream destination for travelers attracted to Gaudi’s fanciful architecture and the city’s location next to the Mediterranean Sea. But food travelers have as many reasons to visit Catalonia’s most populous city, if not more.

Discover tasty Barcelona food experiences you won’t want to miss as you explore Barcelona’s best food at the city’s best restaurants .

We first visited Barcelona during our honeymoon in 2007 and have since returned multiple times. During these visits, we’ve eaten at both simple tapas bars and Michelin-starred restaurants. Ironically, some of our favorite Barcelona food experiences have been at the city’s markets.

Make our favorite tapas recipe at home.

In addition to La Boqueria Mercat, one of the world’s most famous food markets, the city has a network of neighborhood markets like Mercat de Ninot , each packed with locally sourced produce as well as some of the freshest seafood we’ve ever encountered. Food travelers can graze at these markets as well as buy food to enjoy later.

Barcelona’s chefs fully embrace the concept that food can be both well executed and beautiful . Since dining in Barcelona is a culinary rite of passage that rarely disappoints, the city is one of the best places for food in the world.

Top Things to Eat & Drink in Barcelona Bocadillos, Churros, Crema Catalan, Iberico Jamon, Potatas Bravas, Vermouth and Wine

Foodie Cities on Our Travel Wish List

As the expression goes, we haven’t been everywhere yet but it’s on our list.

We had some big travel plans for 2020 that have been deferred to a future year. These are the food cities that we want to visit sooner than later:

We’ve sort of been to Seoul but not really. Our travels have taken us through the city’s Incheon International Airport numerous times including a day-long layover in 2018. Though we haven’t yet left the airport, we’ve eaten excellent Korean while killing time. We can only imagine how great the food must be at Seoul restaurants and street food stands!

Now that we have an Asian pantry in our Lisbon apartment, we’re added Seoul food favorites like Japchae to our repertoire and added Kimchi to our Latkes . It’s not the same as being in Seoul but it’s a start.

What We Want to Eat in Seoul Bibimbap (Mixed Rice), Chimaek (Fried Chicken) Gogigui (Korean BBQ), Japchae (Sweet Potato Noodles) and Kimchi (Fermented Vegetables)

27. San Sebastián

Recognized as one of the world’s best foodie destinations, San Sebastián is located on the Bay of Biscay in Spain’s Basque Country. We plan to gorge on seafood, take a Pintxos crawl and drink lots of Rioja wine when we finally make it there.

If we play our cards right, we may even score a reservation at Arzak . That’s the plan at least.

What We Want to Eat & Drink in San Sebastián Anchoas (Anchovies), Idiazabal (Cheese), Pastel Vasco (Basque Pastry), Txuleta (Steak), Pintxos (Snacks) and Wine

Lima is a destination that tops our list for when we tour the best food cities in South America. Not only is the Peruvian capital home to two of the world’s best restaurants ( Central and Maido ), but it’s equally famous for its Ceviche, Chifas (Chinese/Peruvian restaurants) and Pisco Sours . Those reasons alone have us salivating with anticipation.

What We Want to to Eat & Drink in Lima Ceviche (Marinated Fish), Chaufa (Fried Rice), Lomo Saltado (Stir Fried Meat and Fried Potatoes), Nikkei (Japanese-Puruvian Fusion), Pisco Sours and Pollo a la Brasa (Rotisserie Chicken)

29. Singapore

It’s only half-true to say that we’ve never been to been Singapore. The full truth is that Mindi visited Singapore as a solo traveler in 2006, less than four months before we met. Talk about timing!

Her strongest memories involve eating at hawker stands, overeating at the hotel buffet breakfast and drinking a Singapore Sling at Raffles Hotel . We’ll do all this and so much more when we visit Singapore as a couple.

What We Want to Eat & Drink in Singapore Char Kway Teow, Chili Crab, Hainanese Chicken Rice, Hokkien Mee, Laksa, Murtabak and Singapore Slings

30. São Paulo

Living in Lisbon has given us an appreciation for Brazil and a desire to visit its biggest city. Although São Paulo is 5,000 miles away, we often eat Brazilian food in Portugal. Plus, we love Caipirinha cocktails .

Based on online research and chats with Brazilian friends who live in Lisbon, we’ve picked São Paulo over Rio for this list since it’s the more gastronomic city of the two. That’s where we’ll start our food vacation and see where the roads take us.

What We Want to Eat & Drink in São Paulo Açaí, Acarajé, Beirute and Bauru Sandwiches, Brigadeiros, Caipirinhas, Coxinhas, Feijoada, Pão de Queijo and Pudim Brûlée

31. Tel Aviv

Tel Aviv is another city that Mindi visited before she met Daryl. In fact, she visited Israel three separate times as part of group trips. She enjoyed the food – especially the Falafel and Hummus – during these trips but it wasn’t her primary focus.

Needless to say, food will be our primary focus when we visit Tel Aviv together. Though we’ll eat Falafel and Hummus, we’ll also explore the city’s exciting restaurant scene that transcends traditional Israeli food and has catapulted Tel Aviv to become a major culinary destination.

What We Want to Eat in Tel Aviv Falafel, Hummus, Israeli Breakfast, Sabich, Schwarma and Shakshuka

32. Melbourne

True confession: We’re somewhat afraid to visit Melbourne. It’s not that we don’t think we’ll like the progressive Australian city. Instead, we’re afraid we’ll love it so much that we won’t want to leave.

We already know that we’ll love Mebourne’s coffee culture and that we’ll drink multiple Flat Whites and Magics each day. We also know that we’ll love eating at restaurants that span the globe with their food offering. And we also know that we’ll love dining at top restaurants like Attica , Lûmé and Sunda .

What We Want to Eat & Drink in Melbourne Avocado Toast, Banh Mi Sandwiches, Cruffins, Flat Whites, Hot Jam Donuts, Magics, Meat Pies, Parma and Souvlaki

33. Istanbul

Straddling the East and West and located at the crossroads at Europe and Asia, Istanbul has a fascinating history that we can’t wait to explore almost as much as we want to eat Turkish food at the source.

The cuisine won’t be new to us. We’ve eaten Kebabs in cities like Amsterdam , Basel , Berlin , Hamburg and Strasbourg as well in our home city of Lisbon. Eating them in Istanbul won’t just be the fulfillment of a dream, it will also be the start of our culinary exploration in Turkey.

What We Want to Eat in Istanbul Baklava, Dondurma, Iskender Kebap, Köfte, Künefe, Lahmacun, Lokum, Manti and Menemen

34. Marrakech

Morocco’s Red City has evaded us so so far but it’s calling our names. We want to stroll through the medina, sip mint tea and sleep in a riad. Most of all, we want to eat all the food in Marrakech.

We plan to start with Tagine and Couscous before spreading our culinary wings. Many of the dishes will be new to us and to that we say hurray.

What We Want to Eat & Drink in Marrakech Bissara, Chebakia, Couscous, Harira, Msemen, Mint Tea, Sfenj, Tagine and Zaalouk

Hungry for More Food Cities?

Disclosures

Article Updates We update our articles regularly. Some updates are major while others are minor link changes and spelling corrections. Let us know if you see anything that needs to be updated in this article. Funding We purchased and ate the food featured in this article.

Saveur Magazine’s BEST TRAVEL BLOG award winners Daryl and Mindi Hirsch share their culinary travel experiences and recipes on their website 2foodtrippers. Since launching the site in 2012, they've traveled to over 40 countries in their quest to bring readers a unique taste of the world.

24 Comments

Only one place in South America, and it’s in São Paulo?

Lima, anyone? What a place with a rich history of culinary art.

You’re absolutely correct. We’ll be visiting there as soon as soon as it’s safe to travel.

Correction. We did include Lima at #26.

Malaysia is a much better place than in Singapore, as a Malaysian whom works in Singapore, Singapore’s food is milder taste than in Malaysia, my non asian partner would also agree with that. Singapore is just a copycat with a few different a few different other dishes. Singapore is well known because its a city hub whereas Malaysia is more of tourism and relaxed

We’d love to visit both Singapore and Malaysia. We’ve heard great things about the food in both KL and Penang and we’re sure there’s great food all over the countryside.

Charleston-“Despite it’s location in South Carolina’s lowcountry…”, what does that mean exactly?….

Good point. We just updated.

Mexico City is definitely in the top five. San Francisco didn’t even get a mention.

Just one minor correction – The pic in Osaka labelled Okonomiyaki, should actually be labelled Takoyaki. Okonomiyaki is a large ‘pancake’ style dish with cabbage and other ingredients. And it is still an Osaka specialty along with the Takoyaki balls sold everywhere, particularly in the Dotonbori area of Osaka.

Chicago does not even make the list???

We included Chicago on our list of best food cities in the US.

Clearly you haven’t been in Madrid, otherwise it would have ranked in the top 3. The combination of local and international food you can find there, combined with the affordable prices, in one of the most vibrant and elegant cities of the world, make it probably the number one foodie city. Probably New York tops it, but you will have to pay 4 times more for the same.

You are correct. We had planned to take the overnight train to Madrid in 2020; however, world events kept that from happening. We’re hopeful to get there later this year and will update this guide when and if that happens.

Obviously, you’ll have never been to Penang, Malaysia. Singapore is pale in comparison. And Charleston? Seriously?

You totally missed Oaxaca, Mexico!

The best restaurants in the world are in New Orleans. It’s not even close.

As a foodie who is often disappointed by these types of lists as waaaaaaaay too “American” I am actually pretty aligned with this one ! Tel Aviv and Lima likely got a bit snubbed by more traditional cuisine hot spots like Lyon and Rome but overall solid list.

You probably havent been to Beirut. Otherwize, you would have been smitten…

You havent visited Jamaica yet. Please book a trip for a true foodie experience.

San Francisco?

Need to check out Columbia… Bogotá and Medellín are both great places to eat.

We nearly visited “ColOmbia” a few years ago but, due to some unexpected commitments, ended up in Finland instead. A trip to all of South America is way past due. Colombia is definitely on the list along with countries like Brazil, Peru, Ecua… ok, pretty much all of South America.

Sorry, ColOmbia. Darn spellcheck.

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Destinations For Foodie Travelers: Best Places To Eat Around The World

After spending the last decade traveling the world in search of the best local places to eat, we thought it was time to round up our recommendations. Here are some of the top foodie destinations around the world, perfect for all foodie travelers – people who love to travel for food and drink.

**This post contains compensated links. Find more info in my DISCLAIMER . As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

How To Travel For Food

For a long time, I hesitated to use the word foodie. It was a word that started to get a bit of a bad rap. But, whether you use the word foodie traveler or food-loving traveler, we still wanted to create a guide to some of our favorite destinations.

When planning a foodie trip, it’s important to do research about what to eat and where to eat (and drink) in that destination. But, a food vacation doesn’t have to be one that entirely revolves around eating. It can involve taking cooking classes or visiting food and drink-focused museums to learn more about the local culture through its gastronomy.

If you travel for food, does that make you a foodie? Well, in the end, I know the word foodie has fallen out of favor with many food lovers. I am still okay with the word.

Whether you call yourself a food lover or a food traveler, it’s really someone who chooses a destination because of the food. Or, they might research where to eat and what to eat when traveling. For us, it’s the most important thing when we research upcoming trips.

Vacations For Foodies – Activities Besides Eating During Meals

The best food vacations involve more than just looking for the best places to eat in a city or region. As foodie travelers, when we travel, we like to figure out other ways to learn about the cuisine in a destination.

This means looking for food tours or cooking classes or wine tastings or craft beer tours. It means visiting the local market and trying to understand the local ingredients that are used in the local cuisine.

It also means learning about what to eat in a destination, and what not to eat. For example, did you know there is no such thing as spaghetti bolognese and that no one in Italy eats spaghetti and meatballs? These are the things you learn when traveling for food.

How We Choose Our Foodie Destinations

Travel for foodies starts with choosing a destination. Oftentimes, these destinations aren’t the capital or the most popularly visited city in a country. 

These are just the destinations we’ve fallen in love with. Some of these are the places we’ve visited over and over again. All of them have provided us with memories of eating and drinking that leave us craving more!

Have a food lover in your life, check out our recommendations for the best gifts for foodies .

Our Top Food Destinations

Best places to eat in western europe, western ireland – wild atlantic way.

This part of Ireland is not only our home but has some of the best eats when it comes to traditional Irish food and seafood. Ireland is one of the world’s best vacation spots, particularly for Americans looking to trace their heritage. 

There’s Irish food and what people think is Irish food. While dishes like corned beef and cabbage are enjoyed outside Ireland, you’ll have a difficult time finding them on a menu in Ireland. Along Western Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way freshly caught seafood is all the rage. Up and down the coast locally sourced mussels, salmon, and oysters are plentiful. Enjoyed in a hot seafood chowder or on their own, they’re a must eat. 

Best Dish To Eat On The Wild Atlantic Way : Hot and delicious seafood chowder and Irish brown bread with creamy Irish butter

Check out our Irish Food Guide for more tips

Best Place to Eat Along the Wild Atlantic Way : Vaughan’s Anchor Inn Liscannor, Co. Clare. Just down the road from the Cliffs of Moher, stop here for some of the creamiest seafood chowder along the Wild Atlantic Way.

San Sebastian, Spain

San Sebastian is a city built on food. From Michelin Star dining to its world-famous bite-sized treats, called pintxos. There’s certainly no going hungry in the Basque Country’s capital city. With the unintentional invention of the first pintxos, the “Gilda,” San Sebastian has been a pilgrimage destination for food lovers. In a food-crazed country like Spain, San Sebastian is arguably the best of the best.  

The pintxos bars in San Sebastian are true restaurants for foodies. Although most of the tourist traffic is driven into the old quarter, there are good places to eat around the city. The best atmosphere, though, is in the old quarter. 

Best Dish To Eat In San Sebastian : Cochino, slow-roasted suckling pig. Juicy and tender with sinfully delicious crispy skin. 

Check out our San Sebastian Food Guide for more tips

Best Places to Eat in San Sebastian : La Vina in Old Town San Sebastian. Go for their pintxos, but stay for their world-famous Basque Burnt Cheesecake. It’s light, airy, and highly addictive. For a taste of pintxos history, head to Casa Valles to sample the pintxos that started it all, the Gilda. 

Check out our Spain Food Guide – What To Eat In Spain

Bologna, Italy

Bologna is one of the best food destinations in the world. Simply put. Some of the most iconic Italian dishes and ingredients and some of the best food to eat in the world come from Bologna or other nearby towns in Emilia Romagna. 

Overshadowed by more popular cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice, Bologna is without a doubt, Italy’s best culinary destination. The capital of the Emilia-Romagna region, Bologna is referred to as la grassa , the fat. A fitting nickname for a food destination.

It’s also fitting that many iconic Italian dishes such as ragu, lasagna, and mortadella come from Bologna. Only 30 minutes by train from Florence, Bologna is a culinary paradise. 

Best Dish To Eat In Bologna : Lasagna. Layers of fresh spinach pasta, rich bechamel , and proper meat ragu stacked high. 

Check out our Bologna Food Guide for more tips

Best Places to Eat in Bologna : Trattoria da Me is a 3rd generation family-run restaurant in the city center. Home of the best lasagna in Bologna since 1937, plan to spend a couple of hours enjoying a proper Emilia-Romagna feast. 

Are you traveling to Italy for the first time? Check out our post Advice On Traveling To Italy – 15 Tips For Italy Travel

Best Places To Eat In Asia

Osaka, japan.

Labeling any one city in Japan as the best food city in Japan is bold. So let’s be bold and say, for us, Osaka is the best food city in Japan .

Every Japanese city is bursting with great food, but Osaka is just different. There’s a feeling in the air that lets you know how important food is in Osaka. Legend has it people in Osaka would rather eat than do nearly anything else. With a mindset like this, why wouldn’t you label Osaka as Japan’s best food city? 

Best Dish To Eat In Osaka : Osaka is famous for okonomiyaki and takoyaki but for us, the best thing to eat is kushikatsu. Also known as fried stuff on a stick, it’s crunchy, tasty, and great with a cold beer.  It’s also one of the reasons why Osaka is one of the best foodie destinations in Japan.

Check out our Osaka Food Guide for more tips

Best Places to Eat in Osaka : Kushikatsu Daruma Dotonbori a.k.a. Angry Chef. Located in the heart of the famous eating street, you’ll find the best kushikatsu in Osaka. Kushikatsu Daruma has everything from fried chicken skins to fried pork ribs and our personal favorite, fried pickled ginger. But remember, no double dipping in the communal sauce. 

Taipei, Taiwan

Taipei is another one of the top cities for foodies in Asia, particularly if you like street food. 

Ask the question which is the most underrated food city in Asia and the answer hands down is Taipei. I’m not sure why but it shouldn’t be. Taipei is loaded with food. It has more night food markets than you can count. The cost of eating is low. And best of all, there are tons of dumplings and noodles. Taipei is a must for anyone who travels for food. 

Best Dish To Eat In Taipei : Dumplings, specifically the soup-filled, lighter-than-air, irresistible Xiao Long Bao, also known as “soup dumplings”. Pro-tip, let them cool down before you bite in. You can thank me later. 

Check out our Taipei Food Guide for more tips

Best Places to Eat in Taipei : Miaokou Night Market, Keelung. The hour direct train ride from Taipei to the Miaokou Night Market is worth it, trust me. The proximity of the nearby fishing port means the market is bursting with fresh seafood. Miaokou can get crowded but the amount and variety of food stalls more than makes up for the crowds. 

Seoul, South Korea

Korean food is often overlooked in terms of the great cuisines of the world. It’s unlike any other cuisine including others from Asia. Korean cuisine is influenced by Korea’s rough terrain and harsh climate.

No other Korean dish symbolizes this more than the national dish, kimchi. A fiery fermented cabbage that’s served at every meal. If you haven’t heard of Korean food, you certainly will. 

Best Dish To Eat In Seoul : It’s all about Korean BBQ (Gogigui). Pieces of grilled pork cooked tableside enjoyed with traditional Korean side dishes, including spicy kimchi. 

Check out our Seoul Food Guide for more tips

Best Places to Eat in Seoul : Head to Gwangjang Market in the evening to sample a wide range of delicious Korean street food treats. Enjoy dumplings, Korean pancakes, and best of all handmade noodles. Go hungry and say yes to everything. 

Foodie Destinations In Africa

Located off the coast of Africa and on the trade routes from India and the Middle East, Mauritius is perfectly situated to have it’s cuisine influenced by numerous outside forces. This certainly shows in dishes like Mauritian curry. While many people travel to Mauritius for the sun, sand, and water, it’s their food they will have you coming back. 

Best Dish To Eat In Mauritius : Mauritian curry. This is not Indian curry nor Thai curry. While Mauritian curry has influences from India, it’s uniquely Mauritian that you have to taste for yourself. 

Check out our Mauritius Food Guide for more tips

Best Places to Eat in Mauritius : Mauritius is filled with many hotels offering outstanding local Mauritian dishes. While we always advocate getting out and eating like a local, unless you are staying in Port Louis, this can be difficult. The Heritage Le Telfair Hotel in particular has several amazing dining options on their property. 

Flavorful. That’s Moroccan cuisine. Not that other international cuisines lack flavor, it’s just that Moroccan cuisine perfectly incorporates tons of amazing spices like cumin, turmeric, and ginger. Let’s not forget that the tagine might be the most underrated cooking vessel in the world. Add in a long history of outside influences and you’ve got an incredible cuisine. 

Best Dish To Eat In Morocco : Tagines and couscous are easily the most recognizable Moroccan dishes. If you are in Fez, make sure to look for their specialty, pastilla or b’stilla. A sweet and savory dish, shredded chicken is wrapped in a thin pasty, fried, and topped with cinnamon. Heaven!

Check out our Moroccan Food Guide for more tips

Best Places to Eat in Morocco : In addition to being the home of pastilla, Fes is the culinary capital of Morocco. It doesn’t hurt that traders have been bringing spices, produce, and cooking through Fes since 700 AD. In that time, a lot of culinary influences have been left behind waiting for new visitors to discover. 

Eric Hoffman

Eric Hoffman is the co-founder of Food And Drink Destinations. Eric is a lifelong traveler who is passionate about helping people learn how to travel for food. He lives with his wife, Amber, in Limerick, Ireland, after spending 3 years living in Spain. Over the last 20 years, they've traveled to over 70 countries together, always in search of great food travel experiences. Eric also loves cooking at home, always looking to perfect his Italian recipes.

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20 Best Food Cities in the U.S., Ranked

20 best foodie cities in the u.s..

Many American cities have impressive food cultures. But which ones are the crème de la crème ? 

To help foodies pick their next destination, we've gathered up the top 20 cities in the U.S. for a culinary adventure. Some may be expected, but others will surprise you.  And we guarantee all these culinary hotspots have truly diverse food scenes that make them worth your time.

Bon appetite!

20. Denver, Colorado

The Mile-High City is a great place to go if you’re a foodie with a sense of adventure. It’s home to an emerging craft spirits scene; cuisine from countries not often represented in the states, including Trinidad and Tobago ; and, of course, plenty of cannabis-infused treats.

As local chef Carrie Baird put it in The Chicago Tribune , “Everyone’s pushing the envelope” in Denver. And that makes it one of the most exciting cities to eat your way through.

What to Eat in Denver

Even Denver’s signature dish has some edge. Rocky mountain oysters , for the uninitiated, are not seafood, but deep-fried bull testicles — and they’re surprisingly delicious. The Buckhorn Exchange , a steakhouse dating back to 1893, serves a mean version and delicious steaks that earned the restaurant a spot on our list of America's best steakhouses .

The easiest way to sample the city’s different cuisine styles is by heading to one of many large markets and food halls — like the Denver Central Market , the Source and the Stanley Marketplace , where old favorites and new dishes meet.

Denver also has a strong farm-to-table movement, represented at standout restaurants like Mercantile Dining & Provision , Beast & Bottle and Potager — the city’s local-cuisine pioneer.  

19. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Philadelphia isn’t one of those under-the-radar food cities: It wears its local cuisine and customs with pride.

The City of Brotherly Love gets heated when discussing which restaurant makes the best cheesesteaks (or if the roast pork sandwich is actually the superior option). It touts such nationally known icons as the historic Reading Terminal Market.

What to Eat in Philadelphia

A cheesesteak is a must, obviously, and while everyone has their favorites, you can’t go wrong at Tony Luke’s or John’s Roast Pork . 

But there’s so much more to Philly than its signature sammy. For instance, Caphe Roasters is known for its delicious Vietnamese coffee — yes, it's a thing — and sandwiches, while Doro Bet brings Ethiopian fare to locals and visitors alike.

18. Tampa, Florida

Tampa is likely one of the more surprising cities on this list, but Brian Connors, clinical instructor of food and beverage management at Florida International University, notes that “Tampa’s got this young vibe happening, where a lot of young professionals and young families with a lot of disposable income and education are moving into that area.”

Additionally, it’s one of the craft beer hubs of the East Coast. “They go hand-in-hand,” Connors says. “Where that craft beer culture is, foodie culture is as well, and vice versa.”

What to Eat in Tampa

While overshadowed by Miami, Tampa also knows its way around Cuban food, including the beloved Cuban sandwich, which was invented here. The Ybor City neighborhood hosts some of the city’s best restaurants hawking food from Florida’s southern neighbor, with Columbia Restaurant and Carmine’s Ybor among the best.

Wash your meal down with some of that famous craft beer; the city is home to both major producers like Yuengling and up-and-coming breweries like Cigar City Brewing .

17. Sacramento, California

Often overlooked in favor of trips to more famous cities in the state, Sacramento has come into its own as a major food destination.

Between the access to fresh, local ingredients and low rents that attract innovative chefs , the city not-by-the-bay is the ideal place to start a restaurant. 

What to Eat in Sacramento

Sac-town has been touting its farm-to-table cred since before that was cool, so make sure to seek out spots utilizing ingredients sourced local. The aptly named Localis is one of the best farm-to-table restaurants in the city and features a rotating menu, depending on what’s in season.

Brunch is also de rigueur here. For this, try Echo & Rig — a steakhouse that also happens to be one of the city’s buzziest brunch locations.

16. Orlando, Florida

Rows of chain restaurants may come to mind when you think of Orlando. And for good reason — it’s one of the biggest test markets in the country for fast-food joints.

The next thing you probably think of is Disney World. And according to Connors, that’s one of the main reasons Orlando is perfect for foodies. He calls it the “Disney Effect” — not only are there some amazing restaurants on Disney property, but the theme park’s many eateries serve as a training ground for chefs.

The city also touts what Connors calls “micro-foodie heavens” in neighborhoods outside the theme-park zone.

What to Eat in Orlando

One of the best restaurants in Disney territory is Victoria & Albert’s at Walt Disney World’s Grand Floridian Resort. Its seasonal menu delivers, and there’s a healthy array of vegetarian options available.

Renowned fusion chef Norman Van Aken has had his restaurant, Norman’s , in the city for years, and it remains a must-visit.

The best local neighborhoods to eat your way through are Winter Park and College Park; both are havens for hip establishments serving inventive fare.

15. Oakland, California

Oakland might not immediately spring to mind when you’re thinking about food destinations, but don’t let its proximity to San Francisco, its well-known food-mecca neighbor, throw you off. This city can more than hold its own.

Oakland has landed on various top 10 food lists in recent years, thanks to its diverse culinary offerings, produced using ingredients from nearby farms. The variety of foods on tap makes sense, considering Oakland is one of the most ethnically diverse cities in the U.S. 

What to Eat in Oakland

Be sure to check out Swan’s Market in historic Oakland for a variety of offerings, including Michelin-quality sushi and French-inspired small plates at Delage , coastal cuisine at The Cook and Her Farmer and made-from-scratch Californian-Mexican food at La Guerrera's Kitchen.

The market demonstrates the city's breadth of cultural influences to delicious effect.

14. Portland, Oregon

The affordable, high-quality food in Portland earns it a spot on this list. Famous for its farm-to-table culture and the availability of the freshest ingredients, PDX is a dream come true for innovative chefs.

Looking for something more casual? Portland has you covered there, too.

What to Eat in Portland

For your daytime pleasure, enjoy the highest caliber food carts, specialty doughnuts ( Voodoo is legendary for a reason) and some of the best pizza in the country (try Apizza Scholls ).

By night, enjoy a superlative white-tablecloth option, like bold Argentinian favorite Ox or French bistro Le Pigeon . And, of course, don’t forget to partake of Portland’s world-famous microbrewing scene, a fine complement to excellent food.

13. Seattle, Washington

Seattle doesn’t fare well in terms of affordability, but at least you can trust that what you’re paying for will be worth it.

The home of the iconic Pike Place Market and the first Starbucks is not just about throwing fish and mass-produced lattes. In recent years, it’s become a culinary leader, thanks to its special combination of easily accessible fresh seafood, ethnic diversity and an innovative spirit.

What to Eat in Seattle

If you’re in the mood for seafood, there’s plenty of it, including at Ivar’s Acres of Clams , Hitchcock and Matt’s in the Market .

Or try something different at the Flintcreek Cattle Co. , which serves up responsibly raised game meats like bison hanger steak and wild boar shoulder, as well as hearty vegetarian fare including pickled vegetables in a blue cheese-tahini sauce.

In addition to new American cuisine, there’s plenty of international offerings as well, like Lebanese food at Cafe Munir or Caribbean sandwiches at Un Bien .

12. Charleston, South Carolina

We can't imagine a foodie list without Charleston. That's because the food scene in Charleston goes well beyond the typical Southern fare of barbecue and fried cuisines. (Though the barbecue and fried food are terrific, of course.)

Given its geographic location on the coast, surrounded by marshlands (also known as the “Lowcountry”), the Holy City touts cuisine influenced by spices that made their way in via the colonial trade, ensuring plenty of diverse cuisines. Plus, the seafood is first-rate. 

What to Eat in Charleston

When eating in any foodie city, it's great to experiment — but essential to try the classics.

“My advice is when you are in a city you may not be familiar with, don't look for the restaurant you like — find out if there is a food that the city is well known for and eat in those restaurants,” Dr. John L. Stanton, professor of food marketing at St. John’s University, and founder and editor of the Journal of Food Product Marketing, tells Far & Wide.

Traditional faves like roasted oysters, garlic crabs, and shrimp and grits mark the famous seafood scene in Charleston. Try these and other Lowcountry staples at the locally beloved Poogan's Porch and Slightly North of Broad.

11. Houston, Texas

In 2018, GQ named Houston the “new capital of southern cool,” largely because of its thriving food scene.

America’s fourth-largest city has some amazing barbecue, of course, as every Texas metropolis worth its salt must. But Houston’s food culture is about more than smoked meats. Like Oakland, the city benefits mightily from its ethnic diversity , which makes it an ideal spot to try all kinds of cuisine.

What to Eat in Houston

First thing’s first: When it comes to the 'cue, Houston is particularly good at brisket and ribs. Try both at Gatlin’s BBQ , which lands on most best-of lists for a reason.

Outside barbecue, where to begin? For a taste of the city’s diversity, try the Cajun-Creole brasserie Eunice and State of Grace , where Atlanta restaurateur and Houston-native chef Ford Fry serves up everything from Thai curry Spanish octopus to wild boar Bolognese to cream cheese-frosted cinnamon rolls.

10. San Diego, California

Like the other entries from California on this list, San Diego benefits from being relatively close to abundant produce, ensuring the fare here is fresher than fresh.

Add in some of the most creative chefs in America, and you have the recipe for a winning foodie destination.

What to Eat in San Diego

Not sure where to start? A reservation at Herb & Wood is a good bet, with menus that change daily featuring a modern Italian bend.

Opt for some of the city’s other gems, like southeast Asian food with a California twist at Dija Mara or coastal cuisine at The Marine Room , which features sweeping views of the sea.

Oh, and make sure to carve out time to try the San Diego-bred California burrito, stuffed with all the usual fillings plus a healthy helping of French fries. Nico’s Mexican Food and Lucha Libre serve what are widely regarded to be the best renditions.

9. Atlanta, Georgia

This Southern-to-the-core city touts plenty of deliciously fatty Southern staples, from fried chicken and waffles to country-fried ham to cat heads (biscuits smothered in sausage gravy). But this is also a city very much on the cutting edge, with James Beard accolades to its name and even a surprisingly robust vegetarian/vegan scene.

It’s this mix of the old and new, classic and surprising, that keeps foodies flocking to Hotlanta.

What to Eat in Atlanta

For belt-loosening Southern classics, head to one of the city’s South City Kitchen outposts. But to find some of the boldest flavors, you’re going to want to venture out of the downtown area and into the local neighborhoods. Visit Bacchanalia for a pre-fixe seasonal farm-to-table menu or the Iberian Pig for meat-centric Spanish tapas (vegetarian options are available, too).

There’s a lot going on in southwest Atlanta, between Greens & Gravy soul bistro, or plant-based burger joint the Slutty Vegan . And though you might not expect this southern city to be a hotspot for authentic Asian food, family-owned Sichuan restaurant Masterpiece or Hayakawa will change your mind.

8. Las Vegas, Nevada

Las Vegas may not be known for its cultural offerings, but it is known for having some of the best restaurants in the world. Though food used to be an afterthought — expansive buffets were a way to get people in the door of casinos — that is no longer the case.

Ever since Ruth’s Chris came to town in 1989, luxury dining options in Sin City have proliferated; now even the buffets are high-end. It’s also the epicenter for celebrity-chef outposts. If you have a favorite chef from the Food Network, chances are you can eat their food in Vegas.

What to Eat in Vegas

Wolfgang Puck was one of the first A-list chefs to set up shop in Vegas, opening his first outpost more than 25 years ago. Today, you can still try his cuisine at various restaurants around town, including  CUT .

You can also dine out at Nobu Matsuhisa for sushi, named after the legendary Japanese chef; Guy Savoy’s restaurant at Caesar’s Palace; and Pierre Gagnaire’s only restaurant in the United States, among many others.

7. Austin, Texas

If you think of food from Austin and breakfast tacos and barbecue immediately spring to mind, you wouldn’t be wrong. But there’s far more to Bat City than these Texas standards.

The city seemingly adds a new restaurant to its culinary scene every week. And like the hipsters who increasingly populate it, it’s nothing if not trendy. Austin was an early pioneer in the food truck, farm-to-table and fusion-cuisine movements. Of late, it’s embraced the natural wine trend.

This is one of the cities to watch when anticipating what’s next in food and drink.

What to Eat in Austin

True, Austin touts diverse culinary options, but you can’t leave without trying some of its homegrown barbecue. Franklin Barbecue and La Barbecue do it best.

Get a taste of the food-truck scene at Odd Duck , which started as a wildly popular truck before moving into brick-and-mortar digs. Best known for its pork belly sandwiches, the restaurant also serves up new twists on old favorites like beer sherbet, redfish ceviche and chicken-fried fish head.

There’s also a lot of interesting fusion food happening here, like izakaya-meets-smokehouse restaurant Kemuri Tatsu-ya ; the Elizabeth Street Cafe , crafting inspired French-Vietnamese cuisine; and Barley Swine , which serves up flavors from far and wide using hyper-local ingredients.

6. Miami, Florida

Miami ranks so highly because of the authenticity of its food, Connors explains.

The region is experiencing a boom of what Connors calls “pockets of authenticity, where restaurants are becoming hyper-focused on one particular thing” in neighborhoods like Wynwood or the Brickell financial district, as well as surrounding areas like Coral Gables and even up to Fort Lauderdale.

What to Eat in Miami

A few years ago, Peruvian food was the craze — and while the fervor has died down a bit, it’s still well worth eating in the Magic City. Jaguar Latin-American Kitchen serves some of the best Peruvian food outside Peru, including a perfectly tangy ceviche.

Today, it’s all about food from Oaxaca, Mexico. Get in on the hype by trying the queso fundido with Oaxaca cheese at Bakan .

And then, of course, there’s high-quality Cuban food, a Miami favorite for decades that will never go out of style. Try the best Cuban food of your life at local chain La Carreta .

5. Washington, D.C.

Our nation’s capital has been getting a lot of attention as a food destination. Culinary options run the gamut from Michelin-starred fine-dining spots that cater to political A-listers, to a plethora of excellent food trucks — and everything in between.

The one caveat here? Like New York, the D.C. food scene doesn’t come cheap.

What to Eat in Washington, D.C.

Unlike some of the other cities on here, D.C. isn’t known for any one particular dish or style. Instead, your best bet is to try a little bit of a lot of things.

Our picks? The inventive food stalls at Union Market, which include modern Israeli vegan street food at Shouk and old-school NY soda-shop Buffalo & Bergen ; the bountiful brunch bread options at Le Diplomate ; and the unlimited small plates of Balkan food at Ambar .

4. Los Angeles, California

As a city full of immigrants and transplants, it makes sense that L.A. has one of the most exciting food cultures in the country. It’s also relatively easy for a new chef to get started in this town, thanks to an abundance of food trucks and the opportunity to set up shop in a small strip mall.

In a city where many residents look like (or are) models, it also makes sense that healthy eating reigns supreme. The city’s vegetarian and vegan scenes are second to none, with PETA naming it “vegan heaven.”

What to Eat in L.A.

Go full California at Baroo Canteen , which serves up fermented veggie and grain bowls, or Plant Food + Wine , where star chef Matthew Kenney puts his indelible spin on vegan dishes.

Downtown L.A. (or DTLA, as it’s become known) used to be no-man’s land but, today, hosts some of the best eateries in the area, including hotspot Bestia , serving elevated Italian food.

L.A. has always been a city of neighborhoods. To try a lot of what the city offers in one place, visit the historic Grand Central Market , where you can sample offerings from some of L.A.’s favorite cuisines.

3. Chicago, Illinois

Like the other great immigrant cities on this list, the Windy City has no shortage of international cuisine and plenty of local favorites. But what really makes the city stand out is its balance of haute fine dining and low-frills comfort food. It touts 22 restaurants with coveted Michelin stars, for instance, but also counts the humble hot dog among its signature dishes.

Little wonder the city is so frequently lauded, including being named the 2017 Restaurant City of the Year by Bon Appetit.

What to Eat in Chicago

The aforementioned hot dog, sold at stands throughout the city, is of course a must; just make sure to hold the ketchup, as is Chicago custom.

Deep-dish pizza also famously hails from the city (try Gino’s East or Lou Malnati’s , among many excellent options), as does Chicago-style popcorn, a mix of cheddar and caramel flavors that can be enjoyed at Garrett popcorn shops throughout the city.

With vibrant Greek, Vietnamese, Italian, Mexican and Chinese neighborhoods, you can eat your way around the world over a weekend. For a taste of the high-end options, there’s  Parachute (featuring James Beard Award-winning chefs).

2. San Francisco, California

The City by the Bay is the personal favorite of St. John’s University’s Stanton. “There are so many great seafood restaurants, but there is also a downtown with all sorts of ethnic food,” he says. “Additionally, they have one of the best Asian restaurant scenes. Add in the beauty of the city, and it's my number one.” 

And while we don't place it in the same place as Stanton, it's a worthy runner-up.

What to Eat in San Francisco

With so many options — that only seem to be getting better — it can be hard to choose where to eat in San Francisco. Waterfront spot Angler , serving that exemplary seafood Stanton was raving about, surely won't disappoint. It was named Esquire’s best new restaurant of 2018.

Next, try Scandanavian food at Kantine , pinsa (pizza’s older cousin) at Barbara Pinseria and western Indian Gujarati cuisine at Besharam , before sampling Chinese food to your heart’s content at China Live Market Restaurant .

Then, book your next trip because there’s a lot more to eat.

1. New York, New York

“In my expert opinion, New York is still the one to watch,” Connors says. “New York is still the epicenter of defining and then creating food trends.”

It's no wonder, then, that NYC ranks as No. 1 in our hearts. With restaurants and shops from virtually every corner of the planet, each of the five boroughs has something different to offer. Plus, fine dining doesn’t come better — NYC has 73 Michelin stars , more than any other city in the country.

Yes, it's not always affordable, but you can also find a delicious slice of pizza on practically every corner for less than $5.

What to Eat in New York

If you don’t know where to start, head to one of the city’s many food halls or open-air markets, like Smorgasburg , Gotham West Market , Chelsea Market , Essex Market or DeKalb Market Hall , to sample a little bit of everything.

Better yet, take the 7 train to Queens, making stops in the Little India area of Jackson Heights  before ending up in Flushing — boasting one of the largest and fastest-growing Chinatowns in the country and some of the best noodle, dumpling and dim-sum spots in the city.

9 top travel destinations for the best food in the world

The best places to go on vacation often offer the best food in the world. Exploring local cuisine, trying dishes you won’t find anywhere else (or won’t find as they were intended to be made), and savoring fresh-from-the-farm or sea ingredients all add a delicious layer of enjoyment to the best places to go in the world. So we’ve gathered some of the top travel destinations for foodies so you can make mouthwatering memories.

Dig into world-famous French food and wine

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5 of the best places to eat in the Trastevere neighbourhood of Rome

Visit this picturesque cross-river quarter known for its vibrant colours, lively nightlife and delicious food scene. Trastevere has something to offer culinary-minded visitors at every hour of the day, from little shops selling artisanal salumi to classic trattorias.

Literally meaning ‘the other side of the Tevere (Tiber River)’, Trastevere is one of the most historic neighbourhoods of Rome. It used to be a working-class district, and although much has changed since those times, plenty of its charm has remained: the tight alleys with fascinating angles, laundry hanging from building to building, old men playing cards in the bars, the smell of tomato sauce wafting from homes and trattorias alike. Its streets abound with historical sights such as churches and palazzos to explore. And at night, you can find the same streets buzzing with huge crowds of young people out for a drink and a bite in one of Trastevere’s many bars, or in its extraordinary piazzas. Here are a few of the best places to eat while in Trastevere.

1.   La Norcineria di Iacozzilli

Near the characterful San Cosimato market, this family-run deli shop has just turned a century old and is still where locals do their shopping. The market itself is well worth a visit, while this old-school deli — with all the retro vibes of a corner shop from the movies — is the perfect spot for a snack or a light lunch. It has a large variety of salami, hams and other types of cured meat, as well as cheeses and a very good porchetta (pork roast), which you can have in the form of a panino, if you want, with the addition of mozzarella.

2. Supplì Roma

It’s traditional to have fritti (a variety of deep-fried bites) before a pizza in Rome and Naples. The classic Roman fritti are deep-fried courgette flowers ( fiori di zucca ) stuffed with mozzarella and anchovies; deep-fried cod fillet ( filetto di baccalà ); and supplì , little rice balls dressed with tomato sauce and stuffed with mozzarella, then breaded and fried. Some compare supplì to Sicilian arancini , but they’re supposed to be different, both in size and in condiment. Supplì Roma in Via di San Francesco a Ripa has gained fame for making its   supplì using other traditional Roman recipes such as cacio e pepe , aubergine parmigiana and even non-traditional options such as pulled pork — the latter two are especially popular. Many locals have these supplì for a workday lunch.

3. Alice Pizza Trastevere

There’s a Roman tradition of pizza al taglio that is quite unmatched in the rest of Italy. Literally meaning pizza by the slice, pizza al taglio is made in large trays, topped with a variety of ingredients that can be quite far from the classic round pizza flavours, and is sold in the quantity you want — so it’s a perfect solution for a little snack, a light lunch or feeding a big crowd at a party. Alice Pizza, born 35 years ago in Rome, is famous for its light and highly digestible pizza dough, which manages to retain its quality across branches throughout the country. Alice’s toppings, however, are locally provided, which means the pizzas in different cities are not quite the same. Go for the classic potato and the amatriciana if they’re available.

4. Taverna 51

This one of Rome's oldest and most classic trattorias, run by generations of trasteverini who have been making the same dishes for more than 70 years. It’s a trusted institution run by generations of trasteverini . They make tonnarelli (a fresh pasta not unlike spaghetti) in house and serve it with amatriciana, carbonara, gricia or cacio e pepe — all the Roman classics to try. Another standout menu option at Taverna 51 is the tonnarelli with mussels and pecorino — an unlikely but very interesting combination. For the main, the meatballs ( polpette ) and saltimbocca alla romana (veal with ham and sage cooked in wine), are highly recommended choices.

5. Fiordiluna

For over 25 years, this small gelateria has been a source of refreshment on cobbled Via della Lungaretta. The pleasantly surprising element about Fiordiluna is its attention to the ingredients; not only does it source them from fair-trade and local producers — many of which are organic — it also takes particular care to use as few ingredients as possible for each gelato flavour. You can also find sugar-free gelato   that’s truly indistinguishable from the conventional kind.

Related Topics

• FOOD TOURISM
• FOOD HISTORY
• STREET FOODS
• FOOD CULTURE

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The Unsung Food Destinations to Travel for Now

By CNT Editors

Local food and flavors are some of the greatest reasons to travel. And though the bistros of Paris and Tokyo’s izakayas always compel us to return, some of the most exciting foodie scenes are emerging in less-expected locations. From a nascent wine country in Brazil to the next great neighborhood for reimagined traditional plates in Bangkok , here are the global food destination you need to know about now.

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Cerro de la Muerte, a mountain peak in Costa Rica's Tapantí — Cerro de la Muerte Massif National Park

San José, Costa Rica

A group of chefs in the Costa Rican capital is celebrating the country’s rich ingredients while reappraising a hyper-local indigenous food culture. At Sikwa , a buzzy indoor-outdoor space in downtown Barrio Escalante, Pablo Bonilla doesn’t just serve pejibaye tamales and achiote chicken with pineapple while DJs drop nu-cumbia mixes. He works closely with the Bribri people in the Talamanca mountains, documenting recipes and connecting farmers with other restaurants. It’s part of a new foodie buzz, especially on Calle 33, with its sell-out falafels at Faqua’s, locally sourced aperitivos at Apotecario , and craft brews at Costa Rica Beer Factory . In Amón to the west, Santiago Fernández Benedetto is pioneering Costa Rican fine-dining under a vast chandelier at Silvestre, with modern takes on his grandmother’s cooking including fish baked in banana leaves. —Anna Prendergast

Most tourists wandering the birthplace of Jesus come for the biblical history. But throughout the Middle East it's known as a culinary capital, where a vibrant community of Palestinian cooks, bakers, and producers proudly continue centuries-old traditions. At Elbabour , neighbors thumb earthy za'atar and tangy sumac, while at Almashedawi Bakery, regional staples like labneh and bitter greens are tucked into flatbread fresh from the taboon. And in an airy space overlooking Nazareth's red-tiled roofs, skilled home cooks help the chefs at Luna Arabic Bistro turn out maqluba, an elaborate Levantine dish of meat and rice—perfectly capturing a city where community and tradition are always on the table. —Devra Ferst and Mozna Bishara

The vineyards of South Downs produce increasingly praiseworthy wines. 

South Downs, U.K.

Wine tourism is on the up in England’s bucolic South Downs, just north of Brighton. Here small-scale vineyards are making increasingly respected wines on the back of the area’s chalky soil and fine climate. Take the much-loved Wiston Estate , which offers vineyard safaris and new restaurant Chalk in a barn-like space. Nearby, The Pig in the South Downs delivers the classic cozy-locavore Pig experience—except this restaurant with rooms is waiting to harvest 4,150 Chardonnay vines in the autumn. Further east, sparkling wine specialists Ridgeview (the Queen served Barack Obama its famous Fitzrovia Rosé) is in the process of opening a design-driven cuboid restaurant and tasting area amid lush gardens. Five minutes down the road, Artelium hired Dermot Sugrue, considered by many to be England’s best sparkling wine maker. —Amber Dalton

KOKS at Ilimanaq Lodge in Greenland

This glacial fantasyland has never registered as a foodie hot spot. But neither had the nearby Faroe Islands , until chef Poul Andrias Ziska took over the kitchen at KOKS, using traditional drying, fermenting, and smoking techniques to create hyperlocal menus with dishes like razorbill Wellington and wild-fermented lamb. Now, with the original restaurant closed, the team is headed to Greenland for a residency at Ilimanaq Lodge , a series of oceanfront A-frames in a tiny fishing village reachable only by boat. Ziska is plotting ambitious dishes highlighting the country's unique ingredients—think seal-blood tartlet and tenderized whale skin. Says Ziska, “If a catch is sustainable, and the animal is treated with respect, we'll consider it.” —Toby Skinner

Pampanga Province, Philippines 

During occupation, the Spanish colonizers trained the locals in this region just outside Manila as chefs. The craft has been passed down for generations, making Pampanga one of country’s most exciting and consistent foodie scenes, famous for dishes like morcon, (a braised meat roll), tocino (a sweet cured pork), sisig (traditionally prepared with minced pork face), and buro (fermented rice prepared with sautéed shrimp). You can try variations of these and more in a mix of high-low spots throughout the region’s unassuming cities of Angeles City and San Fernando. Everybody’s Café and Ailing Lucing’s Sisig are can’t-miss, no-frills joints. All meals should end with traditional sweets like turrunos de casoy, a crunchy wafer-like treat prepared with cashew nuts, and the historian, Atching Lillian’s famous heirloom Pan de San Nicolas cookies. —Maryam Jilani

By Jessica Chapel

By Emily Pennington

By Charlie Hobbs

By Kaitlin Menza

Valley of the Vineyards, Brazil

Settled by Italian immigrants who brought their vinicultural chops to the rolling fields of the Serra Gaúcha region, southern Brazil's Valley of the Vineyards is a ramble of vines and greenery that feels a world away from the deserts and jungles to the north. Its sparkling whites and earthy reds have been quietly gaining traction, with labels from places like Casa Valduga increasingly landing on top São Paulo wine lists. Stop in at the terra-cotta-roofed tasting room at Miolo to sip their delicate Pinot Noirs, or head down the valley's winding road for a rare Merlot, courtesy of Marco Luigi. —Jamie Ditaranto

Long famous for its rain forests and reefs, Belize is getting cred for sustainable food experiences that showcase its diverse cultures. On a tour of beach town Placencia, local company Taste Belize might offer guests a creamy seaweed smoothie, a drink linked to innovative farming initiatives, while hotels like Ka'ana Resort are partnering with Maya women chefs to offer traditional cooking classes around a fire hearth. Also, it's nice to know that in 2020 Belize outlawed violent gill-net fishing, which means that the catch of the day cooked into chef Jennie Staines's yellow curry at Elvi's Kitchen in San Pedro is always from reliable fisherfolk using sustainable methods. —Julia Eskins

Crispy pork with Mangda paste at 80/20 Restaurant

80/20's Chef Andrew Martin

Talad Noi, Bangkok

The pandemic may have cooled Bangkok's hottest foodie neighborhoods, but this district straddling the Chao Phraya River is sizzling again. Talad Noi has been racking up culinary cred since the mid-2010s, with the arrival of spots like locavore trailblazer 80/20 and nose-to-tail-touting 100 Mahaseth, but its second wave has finally rolled in. At Aksorn , Nahm veteran David Thompson's tasting menus are inspired by midcentury recipes, while at newcomer Small Dinner Club , Thai-born Sareen Rojanamatin pairs local ingredients with novel techniques—think frozen tom yum and dry-aged Muscovy duck with banana. Even cocktails have had an epicurean upgrade: At Mahaniyom Cocktail Bar , they come loaded with dried squid and coffee cherry husks from up north. —Chris Schalkx

Though not as well known as the metropolis that shares its name, Kyoto by the Sea packs an impressive culinary punch.

Kyoto by the Sea

Two hours north of the city, Kyoto by the Sea is a quiet swath of coast offering some of the best culinary products around. In the fishing village of Ine, sake master Kuniko Mukai brews her rare red Ine Mankai, which is served at Noma; brewer and chemist Yoshiki Yukimachi just created his own boutique batch of the rice wine for Kyoto's Four Seasons . He'll pour you some alongside bento boxes by his neighbor, chef Yukinori Yoshioka, who works wonders with local Matsuba crab at his reservations-only restaurant, Nawaya. Beyond Ine, 130-year-old distiller Iio Jozo creates vinegars from rice grown in its green paddies, which can be found in the kitchens of the world's top chefs, like Joël Robuchon. —Kate Crockett

Great Lakes

​​When Sean Sherman, founder of the Native American food company The Sioux Chef, and his wife, Dana Thompson, opened Owamni , their first brick-and-mortar restaurant, in Minneapolis last July, the accolades flowed . The attention may be new, but the traditions are not: the Great Lakes have been home to Indigenous foods like manomin (wild rice) for thousands of years. Today, Native women are working to keep this heritage alive. In Wisconsin, Elena Terry's nonprofit Wild Bearies teaches communities traditional farming techniques, while Detroit-based Shiloh Kiona Maples's Spirit Plate podcast honors Indigenous peoples across the continent who are preserving—and revitalizing—ancestral practices. —Cinnamon Janzer

Pizarro preparing cabrillas

Tapas at Iris Zahara

Cádiz, Spain

Southern Spain’s Costa de la Luz is known for its kitesurfing, but also its legendary red tuna, sustainably caught using an ancient Phoenician method during the almadraba fishing season each May. Now there’s another draw: José Pizarro. The chef—a pioneer of Spanish cooking in the U.K. since he opened his tapas bar in London’s Bermondsey in 2011—has decamped to the area. Iris Zahara is his sleek, pavilion-style contemporary home set into the cliffs of low-key beach town Zahara de los Atunes, with its long, kitesurf-friendly beaches. But the real pull is his three-day cookery and sherry-tasting tour. Guests get to visit Cádiz’s tapas bars, markets, and sherry triangle, including Osborne , Pizarro’s favorite producer; or El Campero restaurant in Barbate and elevated seafood haunt El Antonio, overlooking the Atlantic in Zahara, before heading back to make dishes from his new book, The Spanish Home Kitchen . They also hear stories about local ingredients, such as that red tuna, which was once butchered and salted in Cádiz’s Iglesia Del Carmen church. —Mark C. O'Flaherty

Sailboats bob in the harbor in Sanders Bay, Saint John

United States Virgin Islands

After surviving a pandemic and many hurricanes, the U.S. Virgin Islands is shifting from food imports to a locally sustainable scene, with restaurants using seasonal produce and proteins sourced from local fishermen and divers. In St. Croix, chef Tod Manley transformed his 40 Strand, to 40 Eats and Drinks , to include more take-out friendly options and a small outdoor patio, while notable Chef Digby Stridion launched a sustainable seafood restaurant on the North Shore, Ama at Cane Bay , as well as the tiki bar Breakers Roar , and Carolines breakfast spot. Amongst the European-style spots of St. John’s Cruz Bay, locals are starting to favor barefoot beach bar Heading East , offering fish in an open air atmosphere. On St Thomas, new concepts like chef David Benjamin’s refined Caribbean Indigo 4 , is already one of the best restaurants around while the historic Market Square is getting a modern facelift courtesy of laid back Luciano’s , which does a mean Taco Tuesday. —Sucheta Rawal

Southeast Taiwan

Taitung county, a five-hour train ride south of Taipei, is one of the islands’ most remote regions, hemmed between the Central Mountain Range and sea. It’s in this unassuming, less explored corner that you will find of the country’s most dynamic dining spots, Sinasera 24, where chef Nick Yang applies techniques he picked up in France to aboriginal and Taiwanese ingredients, from local amaebi to mountain pepper leaf. Sinasera’s haute approach highlights the slow-food tradition of the region. You’ll need to drive up a narrow mountain road to reach Tamalakau, a hot pot restaurant specializing in foraged greens, perched 2,000 feet above Taitung City, and to the teahouse-like Yue Lu Moon House in Hualien county, for its bittermelon with sour plum and famous charcoal-roasted chicken stuffed with Chinese herbs. —Martha Cheng

A version of this article appeared in the July/August 2021 issue of  Condé Nast Traveler.  Subscribe to the magazine   here .

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8 Culinary Experiences That Make These Cities the Best Places to Travel for Food

Some of the most treasured travel memories are often accompanied by unforgettable culinary experiences . From a fresh cup of coffee overlooking a breathtaking view to an exciting cooking class or memorable nightcap by the fire, Select Registry’s portfolio of craft lodging properties are among the best places to travel for food, and of course, fun. Embark on a sweet and savory journey across the U.S. with our list of favorite food vacation destinations.

Paris, Virginia

A taste of virginia wine country at the ashby inn.

Slow food travel might be a trending topic, but farm-to-table will always be in season. Set on the rolling hills of Virginia’s wine country, The Ashby Inn & Restaurant is widely known as having one of the best restaurants in northern Virginia for its award-winning cuisine crafted with ingredients from local farmers and artisans that live and work in the region. On its menus, guests will encounter seasonal delights inspired by the inn’s very own garden. Choose between the A La Carte Menu or a decadent five-course Chef’s Tasting Menu for the entire table. 

Designed as a destination for those who delight in expertly paired wine and cuisine, The Ashby Inn & Restaurant offers a series of by-the-glass wine selections at both lunch and dinner for each item on the menu. And if that isn’t enough to draw sommeliers far and wide, the restaurant also showcases an impressive collection of 250 wines representing the major producing regions in the world, including those unique to Virginia. 

Irvington, Virginia

Micro-vineyards, local oysters & cooking classes at hope and glory inn.

There are many pairings in the U.S. culinary world we all know and love; peanut butter and jelly, bacon and eggs or cabernet sauvignon and grilled steak. But on the shores of Virginia’s Northern Neck peninsula, Hope and Glory Inn’s on-site restaurant, The Colonnade is pairing local oysters and award-winning wine. This magical union is designed to create a “sense of place” and a culinary tour like no other. Sip and savor local wines from the award-winning Dog and Oyster , with its micro-vineyard planted just out front of the boutique bed and breakfast. 

Guests can indulge in a seasonal prix-fixe or table d’hôte fine dining experience artfully curated by Chef Meseret Crockett and featuring local fare like rockfish, oysters, and crab sourced exclusively from the Rappahannock River. A true culinary experience, seating is limited to only 20 guests and once your reservation is booked the table is yours to savor for the entire evening should you choose to. The Colonnade also offers a special Italian Chefs’ Table, featuring a wine pairing dinner carefully curated by visiting Chef Carmelita Scholes in collaboration with the inn’s acclaimed chef. And for those looking to try their hand at the art of cooking, The Colonnade offers an intimate and interactive Italian Cooking Class led by both chefs. With limited spots available, aspiring chefs must register in advance.

Middlebury, Vermont

Elevated new england fare at swift house inn.

In the northeast corner of the country, travelers will happen upon lush green forest, tart ciders that warm your cheeks, sweet maple syrup, and Jessica’s Restaurant at Swift House Inn . In the heart of Middlebury, Vermont—and just two blocks from downtown—this warm and inviting escape is at-the-ready to whisk you away on a delicious dining adventure. From the award-winning wine list to the freshest ingredients that suit the season, elevated New England fare awaits in the historic dining room. 

Blowing Rock, North Carolina

High country flavors & mountain views at gideon ridge inn.

North Carolina is widely known for its rich culinary culture, something the Gideon Ridge Inn dapples in daily. Here, each meal is crafted from locally sourced fare and paired with a side of sweeping Blue Ridge Mountain views. Brushing the clouds at 3,990 feet, the restaurant at Gideon Ridge Inn has been collecting accolades for its stellar culinary achievements year after year—most recently earning recognition as a James Beard Award semi-finalist. Foodies and travelers alike will enjoy its curated menu defined by local farmers. The ingredients change with the Appalachian seasons, but the one thing that always remains on-menu is the extraordinary flavors of the High Country.

Mystic, Connecticut

Sustainably-minded dining at the whaler’s inn.

On the shores of the Mystic River, The Shipwright’s Daughter is capturing a taste of quintessential New England. Located within The Whaler’s Inn in the heart of downtown Mystic, only the freshest, locally sourced ingredients make it to the table at this critically acclaimed restaurant. Also a James Beard Award semi-finalist, its creative menus keep guests on the edge of their seats until the last bite with an ever-changing daily menu. The mission? Sustainability and community. From working with local growers, farmers, and fishermen, to empowering its team members all while serving delicious dishes, this tide-to-table restaurant is committed to honoring every part of the restaurant circle on the plate. It’s easy to see why it’s a must-stop food destination on anyone’s culinary tour.

Newfoundland, Pennsylvania

Mountainside fine dining at the french manor inn & spa.

Get away to an enchanting stone chateau at The French Manor Inn & Spa for a slice of France tucked away in the Poconos and feel like you're in another country . Sweeping views atop Huckleberry Mountain accompany classic and nouvelle French cuisine at The French Manor Restaurant, offering a prestigious AAA 4-diamond dining experience. Sample gourmet dishes like pan roasted duck breast served with a pomegranate, orange, and pear relish; or french onion soup made with an 18-hour house veal stock, beneath 40-foot vaulted ceilings in the elegant dining room or on the covered terrace. Bon appétit!

Geneva, New York

Chef-led experiences at geneva on the lake.

Amid the historic charm of Geneva, New York an Italianate villa sits at the heart of the Finger Lakes Wine Region . Diciannove Dieci is a restaurant that holds the experiences of historic culinary culture close to its heart while adventuring into the future of food. Here, culinary expeditionists can indulge in chef-led experiences like High Tea every Friday and Saturday, featuring a detailed selection of loose leaf Divinitea organic teas and a handpicked menu of light bites for an afternoon of pure luxury. Carefully curated breakfast, lunch, dinner and of course, brunch menus brim with farm-fresh ingredients in the casual ambiance of Geneva on the Lake . American cuisine takes on its own global journey at Diciannove Dieci.

Louisville, Kentucky

Bourbon-themed delights at chateau bourbon.

It’s hard to visit the Bluegrass State without a trip to the Bourbon Trail . Nestled in the heart of Norton Commons, Louisville’s new urbanist community, sweet smells of fresh-baked pastries and soulful spirits waft from Chateau Bourbon , an aptly named bourbon-themed destination. At this Kentucky treasure you can drink your bourbon and eat it too at a three-course, bourbon-infused breakfast or Sips & Sweets Happy Hour, where guests are invited to sample homemade confections that complement the flavor profile of Kentucky’s favorite spirit: bourbon. From rich bourbon caramel sauce drizzled atop apple pie to the restaurant’s infamous bourbon toffee truffles hand-dipped in Ghirardelli chocolate, your sweet tooth will certainly be satisfied. With nearly 100 bourbons on-site, this luxury destination is a must-visit for foodies and whiskey connoisseurs. 

Best Places to Stay in Blowing Rock

Gideon Ridge Inn

Best places to stay in geneva.

Geneva On The Lake

Best places to stay in irvington.

Hope and Glory Inn and Vineyard

Best places to stay in louisville.

Chateau Bourbon

Best places to stay in middlebury.

Swift House Inn

Best places to stay in mystic.

The Whaler's Inn

Best places to stay in newfoundland.

The French Manor Inn and Spa

Best places to stay in paris.

The Ashby Inn & Restaurant

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The Best Food Destination in the US, According to Tripadvisor Users

The travel platform analyzed millions of reviews from the past year to determine the best places to travel in 2023.

Maria Yagoda is a senior editor at Food & Wine, where she has worked for five years, specializing in restaurant and travel coverage.

If most of your travel revolves around eating, this news is relevant to your interests. Tripadvisor, the digital travel platform, surveyed millions of user reviews from the past year to name the best places to travel in 2023, and one category focused specifically on the best food destination in America.

This year, New Orleans landed the number one spot for the U.S. — and with good reason. The city is full of restaurants worth getting on a plane for and boasts a rich, centuries-old food culture you can't find anywhere else. On the international list, Rome was named the best food destination in the world, and we think that checks out. (You can see the full list of top-ranked food destinations here .)

Lara Hata / Getty Images

"We saw a resurgence of travel demand in 2022, and the outlook for this year is bright," Sarah Firshein, the head of editorial at Tripadvisor, shared in a statement. "Long-haul trips have made a comeback, and we're seeing a lot of Americans excited to plan trips to Asia and the Pacific region for the first time in several years. Cities like Paris and London, which may have taken a backseat to less populous destinations throughout the pandemic, are back on travelers' minds, while places like Alaska and Cuba are also piquing a lot of interest."

Notably, the platform named Cuba the number one trending destination for 2023, and Fes, Morocco, was named the "best place for culture."

We have our own predictions about what travel will look like this year , too. Expect a resurgence in train travel, off-beat food trails, and all-inclusive resorts.

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BEST EVER: 9 Outstanding Food Travel Destinations Not To Miss

Planning your next food travel adventure can sometimes be a bit overwhelming. There are just so many places to visit in the world that make the must-visit lists no matter where you look. If you’re like us you might like a mix of places that are small, medium and large-sized markets. Whatever size city you like to visit we’ve got you covered on our annual list of outstanding food travel destinations we would like to recommend for you to visit.

While our list is far from comprehensive, we think you’ll find it fun, unexpected and most importantly full of tasty adventures.

9 Outstanding Food Travel Destinations Not To Miss

Yellowstone country, montana.

It’s no secret that we’re in love with Montana. In fact, Yellowstone Country is a repeat Best Ever Food Travel Destination from 2017. Returning to Montana in winter turned out to be one of our favorite trips of the year. The beauty of Yellowstone Country is truly something you can enjoy any time of year. If you prefer to avoid the crowds visiting during the winter will be right up your alley.

Watching Old Faithful erupt with just a handful of other people and a coyote made it a story we tell over and over again. While not all the typical tourist attractions are operating during the winter, plenty are open and there are other fun things to do this time of year available in no other. Skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling are up and running and get you out in the quiet of nature. Spa retreats can help you rest, relax and rejuvenate while indoors.

Don’t worry about food. There are plenty of restaurants, pubs, and cafes open in Yellowstone Country and ready to serve you delicious meals you won’t soon forget.

Winter Adventures in Unbelievably Beautiful Yellowstone Country 

Best Food in Montana’s Yellowstone Country

Ann arbor, michigan.

We love exploring the Midwest. In fact, we spent a large part of the last year and this year traveling the U.S., including the Midwest, visiting, researching and discovering where we would eventually relocate from Chicago in 2018. But that’s another story! Food travel doesn’t have to take you too far from home.

One of the places we visited not once but twice was Ann Arbor . We just love the diverse culture of this energetic college town. For a town its size, it has a food scene that rivals much larger Detroit and even Chicago. The rich fertile soil of Michigan draws many chefs, farmers, and lovers of the land to this tasty place.

To add to the attraction, not only can you find just about every type of food you can imagine (done extremely well by the talented chefs that call Ann Arbor home) but you will also find world-class museums, boutique shopping on the street Bob Seger brought to pop music lovers’ attention, Main Street. And, of course, tailgating at Michigan’s “Big House” lasts all day long.

Ann Arbor is an outstanding destination for Midwest road trips. It’s also just a short flight from NYC, Dallas and Boston making it perfect for a girls’ weekend, couples retreat or quick family getaway. And if you want to get an even smaller town feel, nearby Ypsilanti, Dexter and Chelsea offer more restaurant, breweries, theater and shopping choices just a short drive away.

Falling In Love With Ann Arbor For The First Time

Zingerman’s Is Not Just A Killer Deli 

Los Cabos, Mexico

When you’re looking for a place to enjoy the sun and fun look to Los Cabos, Mexico . An easy and affordable flight from the U.S. makes this outstanding food travel destination easy. In a matter of a few hours, you can be lying on a beautiful beach with a cocktail in your hand feeling the stress drain away.

Fresh seafood, vegetables, and fruits abound wherever you go in Los Cabos. From delicious roadside tacos made by someone’s Grandma to fine five-star dining at the Manta Restaurant at The Cape Hotel, amazing meals await you.

Plenty of water activities like snorkeling, scuba, stand-up paddleboards and more give you plenty to keep you busy in between meals. But if you prefer to lounge on the beach and wait for your next spa treatment they’ve got you covered on that front too.

Fantastic Food and Fun You Need To Know in Los Cabos

Hampshire County, Massachusetts

We first became acquainted with Hampshire County on #FoodTravelChat. The more they shared all the wonderful food travel experiences the more we wanted to visit. This is yet another outstanding destination in the U.S. that has an abundance of fertile land and a strong agricultural community.

It’s a perfect place to drive and explore. Whether you stop in Northampton, Amherst, Hatfield, Easthampton or North Hadley you will find people happy to talk to you and tell you what your next stop should be. The area is loaded with many food choices and beautiful countryside you can’t wait to explore. Be sure to check out local dairies, farmers markets, breweries and wineries to get a full taste of this bountiful region.

8 Reasons You Need To Know About Hampshire County

Amazing Things You Need To Do, See and Eat in Northampton 

Roseville, Minnesota

You might be saying, where? Roseville has the good fortune of being located smack between Minneapolis and St. Paul, Minnesota. That makes it an ideal place to set as your home base when visiting the area. This small Midwestern town is not small on flavor and food, and it deserves its own time for exploring their food travel specialties.

Go ahead and explore the Twin Cities to your heart’s content. But the local food scene in Roseville makes it an outstanding destination to explore as well before you end your stay.

Did You Know That Roseville is The Gateway To Fabulous Food  

St. Croix, USVI

Trying to choose our outstanding food travel destinations is kind of like picking your favorite niece. It’s impossible. They all have their own unique and special traits. St. Croix , however, sticks out as a particular favorite for us. When you arrive at a destination and just a few hours later you feel like you’ve found a place you could call home, that’s a special place.

Saying you are welcome in St. Croix is an understatement. The Crucians take you in and immediately make you part of their family. Calling you “cousin,” “auntie,” and “uncle” is not just a term of endearment. It’s a way of expressing how you truly become part of their extended family.

Food? Whether you hit a late-night gas station party or visit fine dining spots for sumptuous fresh seafood, you’ll find plenty to keep your belly full and your palate tempted.

While you’re there be sure to do some shopping at the many quaint little shops. Don’t forget to enjoy the beaches and crystal clear blue waters that beg you to come and relax.

St. Croix is ready to greet you and put on quite a culinary show. Don’t miss it!

7 Spectacular Things You Need To Do In St. Croix

Quebec City

We were so excited to return to Quebec City in 2018 for the Women In Travel Summit. Once again we were grateful to be speakers at this women-focused industry event.

If you love visiting Europe, and more specifically France, you’ll love Quebec City . Just a short plane ride from the U.S. and you’ll feel like you landed in a small quaint French village. The lovely winding streets offer cute shops, cafes, and bars urging you to come in and sample their wares.

Quebec City is another outstanding food travel destination that’s beautiful at any time of year. Just remember to bring your walking shoes to stroll the streets and paths. Be sure you don’t leave without tasting one of Canada’s best-known dishes, poutine. You’ll find it everywhere and everyone you meet will have their own favorite version so be sure to try more than one.

Greece has been on my must-visit food travel list for years. Given my wife is Greek-ish and we enjoy so much about the Greek culture, especially the food, it’s kind of surprising we didn’t get there sooner. Let’s just say that the trip did not disappoint. We were lucky to have Carol and Basil of Real Greece Travels help us out planning our trip. I don’t think we could have seen more or tasted more if we planned it ourselves!

Of course, it was fun to visit with Diana’s cousins and friends, but what really made the trip special was visiting small villages in the Peloponnese and Pelion regions of Greece. Spending time in a place that has only 20 permanent residents really makes you think about the world in a different way.

Experiencing dinners prepared by locals and hearing about their daily lives is not something we’ll soon forget.

View of Piana Greece from the Hotel Papanikola

Tiny But Might Tasty Piana Greece

Wisconsin Food Travel Heaven

Our search for a “new” place to call home was a serious challenge for us. The number of hours traveling, researching and experiencing different outstanding destinations sometimes made the decision even more difficult. Leaving behind Chicago, a city I called home for more than 50 years, was not an easy thing to do. But that’s a whole different story and one we’ll share with you in greater detail very soon.

But the top story is that in the fall of 2018, we made our way with our two meowing kitties to our new hometown, Madison, Wisconsin .  Why Madison? Where do we begin? The flourishing farm-to-table restaurant scene. The beautiful isthmus is surrounded by shimmering lakes. The inclusive community that welcomes everyone no matter who they are, where they are from or where they are going. The hundreds of hiking and biking trails to explore. The abundant beauty of nature and the gently rolling hills. A quick two-hour drive back to family and friends. All the above and so much more.

Not to mention the iconic and delicious Old Fashioned cocktails. I don’t know if it’s the “official” state drink but it should be. No matter where you go in Wisconsin you’ll find them. There are probably as many different recipes for Old Fashioneds as there are kinds of cheese in the Dairy State. For a true Wisconsin Old Fashioned be sure to order it “sweet”. There are many places and many variations to sample. Try The Old Fashioned or Toby’s Supper Club for two of our favorites.

If you visit Wisconsin don’t forget to also visit Milwaukee, Kenosha, Monroe, Middleton, Verona, Fitchburg, Waunakee, Sun Prairie, and all the other nearby towns. Each one has its own unique personality and history to explore and discover. We know we plan on discovering every nook and cranny our new home Wisconsin has to offer. Supper clubs, pizza farms, dairies, breweries, bakeries – the food exploration is full of endless possibilities.

Best Ever What To See And Do In Madison, Wisconsin

Best Ever Food and Fun Weekend in K enosha

Happy Foodie Travel Discovery

We hope you enjoyed our recommendations for outstanding food travel destinations for all foodie travelers to visit. We will keep expanding our coverage and traveling to more places near and far to taste the unique and interesting foods they have to offer.  If you have any suggestions for places we should visit please leave them in the comment section below. We look forward to hearing from you.

Pin To Your Food Travel Board on Pinterest

Co-founder of Food Travelist. I love to explore the world and love learning about new places. I'm an eater and I've got a smile for everyone I meet.

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Related posts, how to travel sustainably, 26 comments.

Great ideas. I love when food ideas are combined with travel.

I absolutely love this post. I’ve been to Michigan, but now you’ve got me interested in the other destinations. Thanks for sharing.

Great list. Full of some places I have been to and some I haven’t. Now to add to my bucket list! Thanks

Greece and Mexico have been on our travel bucket list for so long. Now I added many more! 🙂

What a great list. I am especially adding Greece to my list. And a revisit to Quebec City. It’s been ~30 years, so I think I deserve a re-do!

Lucky me-I can add almost all these destinations to my travel list. I have to say right about now, St. Croix would be at the top!

The colour of that water in St. Croix makes me want to pack my bags and head there today! Winter has finally hit on the Prairies! Happy (or not!) Winter Solstice and Happy Holidays.

Simply my two FAV things to do- travel and eating! I’ve saved the info for Greece. Can’t wait to get back there!!!

I vote for Greece, but will have to check out Roseville since my daughter lives in downtown Minneapolis and I visit there every couple of months. Great food in Minneapolis too.

I’ve only been to St. Croix, but I think I may have to add the others to my list. Thanks for the ideas!

I like the variety of destinations on your list! These all sound like great places to explore. The only one on your list I have been to is the Virgin Islands, and it is so beautiful there.

Hi Jo! I just can’t say enough about how much we love Montana. If winter wasn’t so darn long there we most likely would have chosen that as our new home.

Happy to introduce you to Roseville, Doreen. It’s an especially great place to stay to make your trips to the Twin Cities nice and easy and tasty!

Thanks! Glad we found a few more destinations to whet your appetite.

Hi Lori! Miss Kim’s is worth the trip alone. Hope you make it there someday soon.

Wow, some really good places that aren’t the typical good food places you hear about, which is a great to see. Thanks for the intro. The dish from Miss Kim’s in Ann Arbor looks like some place I’d travel to just to eat that! Thanks for the foodie love!

What an eclectic collection of outstanding destinations. We have hit a few, so we know how fantastic this list really is. Looks like we found some more to add to our travel list.

I’ve been to most of these locations and love them all. But it’s funny. I’ve been to the Twin Cities many times and have never heard of Roseville! Will definitely have to check it out the next time I visit Minnesota!

What some great suggestions – and the food looks amazing all the way. I’ve always longed to go to Montana and now you’ve informed me that Yellowstone Country is a Best Ever Food Travel Destination , I think it’s definitely going onto my bucket list 🙂

Such a fun roundup and a great payoff at the end – finding your new home. It’s wonderful that food has really become a marker across North America and that we’re catching up with the Old World.

We recently saw Yosemite at Thanksgiving. It was quite the trip for us. For right now I’m happy staying home and safe at Christmas. Next summer we are planning on going to Yellowstone for the first time. I love that I’ve been able to visit all these national parks these last few years.

I know our family would love all of these places listed. I particularly love the idea of spending some time in Montana. Great destination choices you selected.

I have been to Greece and Quebec. My number one place I want to visit is Montana, just so beautiful and scenic!

wow, you really know how to travel by the food, I’m impressed, everything looks so delicious, i wish i would get the chance to travel the US too, i only come to work every time

We all love traveling, this is a great help for us to decide where to go next. Amazing list of destination featured on this blog. Thank you for sharing this to us.

We have been to four of the places listed. We actually lived in Greece for one year. Live to travel

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The Ultimate USA Bucket List For Foodies: 44 Must-Try Spots

The United States is a beautiful melting pot of many different cultures (and as a result, many different cuisines). For food lovers, this means an endless array of incredible flavors and experiences to try. With so many options, it can be overwhelming to try and narrow things down – so that’s where we come in!

Diversity is the one true thing we all have in common. Celebrate it every day. —  Author Unknown

Being open to new foods and sharing meals with people from backgrounds that look much different than yours is one of the best ways to connect with others, and we hope that this guide to eating your way across America will broaden your horizons as well as your taste buds!

Whether you’re visiting the United States for the very first time or you’re just looking for the best restaurants and dishes to sample on an upcoming trip, this guide is for you. Featuring 44 amazing cities all across the country, ranging from small town culinary gems to well-known food-obsessed metropolises, we’ve put together a comprehensive USA foodie bucket list with local recommendations for each destination that will have you drooling!

Here’s a taste of what you’ll find in this post (Get it? A taste?!):

Seattle, Washington

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bk51388gxaJ/

Belltown: 2323 2nd Ave, Seattle, WA 98121

Capitol hill: 3617, 501 e pike st, seattle, wa 98122.

Tavolata has some of my favorite pasta in the USA. Tavolata is owned by restaurateur Ethan Stowell, who has several restaurants in the area, all specializing in a different aspect of Italian food – this is his pasta restaurant, and he does it darn well. I feel like a lot of restaurants miss the mark when cooking pasta to that perfect al dente texture, but Tavolata is spot on.

They also have a killer Happy Hour deal, which runs every single day (!) from 5-7pm – the pasta is basically half off, and the wine is $5. This is one of the places I have to dine at every single time I’m in town.

What to order: Pepperdelle or Rigatoni

Serious Pie

Virginia (belltown): 316 virginia st, seattle, wa 98101, westlake (south lake union):   401 westlake ave n, seattle, wa 98109.

Serious Pie is under the empire of Tom Douglas, who is another famous local restaurateur. I always say that I can never leave Seattle without eating at a Tom Douglas establishment – it’s a tough choice when choosing a favorite, but I am obsessed with Serious Pie (Lola and Dahlia Lounge are also delicious).

The thin-crust, wood-fired pies are some serious stuff and are super addictive. You can’t go wrong with anything here – they have anything from the classic pies, to some creative topping combinations. 

What to order: Sweet fennel sausage, roasted peppers, provolone

https://www.instagram.com/p/BlZG0qXn9Xo/

The Walrus and The Carpenter

4743 ballard ave nw, seattle, wa 98107.

If you are obsessed with oysters like I am, then the Walrus and the Carpenter is a dream come true. The Walrus and the Carpenter has been one of the most highly acclaimed and popular restaurants in Seattle since its opening in 2011, when it was named one of the best new restaurants in America by Bon Appetit magazine.

You will want to get there early – there is always a wait here (even before opening). The other dishes – some which are oyster and seafood focused (fried oysters, clams, grilled sardines), some not (steak tartare, jamon) – are all on point and use the finest seasonal local ingredients.

What to order: The oysters – one of each please! Get there during the first hour of opening ( 4-5pm ) for oyster happy hour, which means they are all 50% off.

[irp posts=”3954″ name=”30 Instagram Worthy Desserts In New York City”]

2234 1st Ave, Seattle, WA 98121

Local 360 focuses on sustainability and local 360 – all the ingredients, beer, and wine served in the restaurant are sourced within 360 miles of Seattle. Their belief is that food should support local farmers who take care of the land for future generations to come, that sustainability should be a daily choice, and that food should have whole and natural flavors.

Their brunch is one of my favorites here, and I also enjoy their happy hour. Everything is fresh and delicious – one of my favorites in Seattle.

What to order: Biscuits & gravy, and PB & J bon-bons

622 Broadway E, Seattle, WA 98102

Poppy does a Pacific Northwestern (aka hipster) spin on thalis, which are essentially an Indian platter made up of various dishes and sides. They are literally the cutest thing ever (and very Instagrammable).

Poppy focuses on using fresh seasonal ingredients featuring various herbs, which are grown in a garden right at the back of the restaurant. The menu is constantly changing on what’s in season. The desserts and cocktails here are also fantastic as well.

What to order: A thali – whatever is in season. Also get a dessert thali because they are adorable and delicious.

Caroline Ikeji | Pictures & Words

Denver, Colorado

Denver is one of the fastest growing cities in America, which means the food scene is blossoming in a frantic attempt to catch up. Although nowhere near as diverse as cities like Chicago and San Francisco yet, Denver cuisine is innovative and starting to make a national name for itself thanks to an influx of talent and publicity (including the most recent season of Top Chef ).

A fit and health-focused state, local, seasonal and farm-to-table are all major buzzwords around here, and these five hot spots embody the best of Mile High dining!

https://www.instagram.com/p/BQyKVU1lgnO/

TAG Continental Social Food

1441 larimer st, denver, co.

Troy Guard is one of Denver’s best chefs and restaurateurs with more than a handful of successful venues under his belt. TAG is one of his OG ventures, withstanding the test of time in hopping Larimer Square. Drawing inspiration from Asia, Hawaii, and Latin, his fusion small plates are meant to be shared and celebrated.

What to order: Flash Seared Hamachi with Pop Rocks

Mercantile Dining & Provision

1701 wynkoop st #155, denver, co 80202.

When Union Station was revamped in 2014, it became as much as a nighttime destination as a transportation hub. There are tons of restaurants and fast-casual spots to grab a bite in the train station, but Mercantile was always the reliable staple, even voted best new restaurant the year it opened.

What to order: Squid Ink Spaghetti

https://www.instagram.com/p/BXgXOLul1vl/

3350 Brighton Blvd, Denver, CO 80216

The Source was one of the pioneers in the food hall trend in Denver, and Acorn has been one of the cornerstone tenants since the market opened. A hip warehouse conversion dressed in street art and graffiti, the ambiance is as iconic as the dishes are as flavorful.

What to order: Key West Royal Shrimp & Grits and the Tomato Braised Meatballs

2030 W 30th Ave, Denver, CO 80211

Linger is a bit of an anomaly in that it’s as known for it’s quirkiness as much as its flavor. The restaurant is in the location of a former mortuary, and it prides itself on being an “eatuary.” Dishes from around the world are served on tables that yes, used to be used for autopsies. Regardless, the food is balling, the scene hopping, and the people watching tops. Their rooftop has some of the best sunsets and city views in all of Denver with drinks served out of a retro VW van.

What to order: Devils on Horseback

https://www.instagram.com/p/BlA75sNnl1t/

AVANTI Food  & Beverage

3200 n pecos st, denver, co 80211.

One of Denver’s most happening food halls, AVANTI opened with the concept of providing potential restaurant ventures a place to test out their idea with a short term lease before committing to being a full-blown brick and mortar. Some of the best food trucks in town have outposts here so you can try food from a variety of purveyors and niches all under one roof.

What to order: Arepas

Lauren Monitz | The DownLO

Los Angeles, California

2121 e 7th pl, los angeles, ca 90021.

Bestia is a buzzing modern American Italian restaurant located in a former warehouse. It has a really cool vibe, with an amazing seasonal menu. You really can’t go wrong with anything you order here. Make sure to make reservations in advance. Getting a seat can often be difficult unless you’re willing to have a very early or late dinner.

What to order: Ask your server! The seasonal menu is constantly changing.

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Scopa Italian Roots

2905 washington blvd, venice, ca 90292.

Scopa is one of my favorite restaurants in LA! It has a fun and trendy vibe, with amazing food. While the dishes aren’t inventive or unique, they are made of fresh seasonal ingredients and absolutely delicious. I’ve loved everything I’ve tried here.

What to order: Squash blossoms, one of the seasonal crudos, at least one of the pastas.

22706 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265

If you’re going to have a splurge dinner in LA, let it be Nobu. You’ll pay a pretty penny, but it’ll be worth every single melt-in-your-mouth bite. Make reservations in advance, go around sunset, and try to get a seat outside so you can also enjoy the ocean as you dine on some of the best sushi LA has to offer.

What to order: Meyer lemon albacore, lobster tacos, artichoke salad, black cod with miso.

[irp posts=”3672″ name=”The Ultimate USA Travel Bucket List”]

Osteria Mozza

6602 melrose ave, los angeles, ca 90038.

Known to be one of the best pizza spots in LA. Like anything good in LA, it comes at price and requires reservations, but you may not be able to eat any other pizza again after this one.

What to order: Any of the pizzas, mozzarella from the mozzarella bar.

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Mexicali Taco & Co

702 n figueroa st, los angeles, ca 90012.

Any trip to LA must include lots and lots of tacos. Recommending the best tacos in LA is beyond the scope of this post (there’s A LOT), but I think you’ll be more than pleased with Mexicali. It’s a popular hole-in-the-wall serving up the best of Mexicali comfort food all made with fresh seasonal ingredients. Great tortillas, great salsas, great taco combinations. There’s a reason why Mexicali is on LA Weekly’s 10 Best Tacos in LA list.

What to order: Any of the tacos, vampiro quesadilla, Mexicali fries.

Lena & Bassam | Happily Ever Adventures

Cape Charles, Virginia

Virginia’s Eastern Shore isn’t just an outdoor adventure paradise, but a foodie heaven for those who love fresh seafood, often paired with a pastel sunset. The waterfront town of Cape Charles is a top location to base your trip, with a few must-savor restaurants including:

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bj5FWgDFkaq

33 Marina Rd, Cape Charles, VA

Not only is their tuna burger the bomb, but if you’ve never had an Orange Crush, this is the place to do so. This popular coastal Virginia cocktail blends vodka, triple sec and fresh squeezed orange. Sit outside on their outdoor patio and watch the sky fade from purple to orange, with passing boats helping to set the scene.

The Jackspot at Sunset Beach

32246 lankford hwy, cape charles, va.

This tasty indoor-outdoor eatery mixes chill music, beach play and good food. Order your favorite tiki drink with a plate of crabcakes or coconut fried shrimp. The restaurant is right on Sunset Beach, and you can work off your meal with swimming or kayaking.

Hook-U-Up Gourmet

227 mason ave, cape charles, va.

The one indoor eatery on this list, most of the Cape Charles locals I consulted about food touted this as their favorite restaurant. You may not see the sunset, but you will eat seasonal fare prepared by a classically trained chef. While the menu is seafood heavy — you can’t miss their seafood pastry of the day — you’ll find a few meat dishes, too. Pair with a glass of local Chatham Vineyards wine.

Jessie Festa | Jessie On A Journey

With the second smallest population of any US state, the tiny kingdom of Vermont is still home to a big number of amazing restaurants. Instead of featuring one city (although Burlington is its biggest and most restaurant-heavy), I’m sharing some of the best spots in the entire state.

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Cloudland Farm

1101 cloudland rd, woodstock, vt 05091.

With a big love of all things local, Vermont cuisine is highly focused on farm-to-table dining. Cloudland Farm, just outside of Woodstock, Vermont, is as farm-to-table as it gets. Set upon a working farm that’s over a century old, this farm restaurant serves unique meals on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings.

Driving 4 winding miles into the hills, Cloudland Farm sits atop a rolling field. Enjoy a BYOB beverage on the wide porch before your dinner begins. The nightly menu is constantly evolving, serving inspired farm fresh dishes in a beautiful cozy barn setting. Truly, this dining experience is exquisite, and your taste buds will be in heaven.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bi5whGxFDKE/

Leunig’s Bistro

115 church st, burlington, vt 05401.

Burlington, Vermont is full-to-bursting with an array of delicious restaurants. One must-try spot is set right on popular Church Street. Leunig’s Bistro is one of the oldest restaurants in Burlington. It is a blend of French cuisine and hearty Vermont fare. Sit outside on the patio and people watch while listening to live music.

Lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch are equally nice at Leunig’s, but dinner is a classic here. Try the Duck Confit Poutine appetizer for a taste of Quebec, and for your entree, you can’t go wrong with Beef Bourguignon.

Ye Olde Tavern

5183 main street, manchester, vt 05255.

Down in the south of Vermont is the quaint town of Manchester. Here, you’ll find a historic dining experience at Ye Olde Tavern. This colonial era tavern was built in 1790 and makes you feel as if you’ve stepped into a piece of New England history.

The restaurant is cozy and candlelit, with delicious “Yankee Favorites” topping the menu. (Think traditional roast turkey dinner, chicken pot pie, and more). Every meal is served with their signature cranberry fritters and Vermont maple butter. Heavenly!

Amy & Nathan | Two Drifters

New Orleans, Louisiana

https://www.instagram.com/p/BmQ6f3EA_0b/

Antoine’s Restaurant

713 saint louis st,  new orleans, la 70130.

Not only is Antoine’s Restaurant the oldest family-run restaurant in the United States, but there are 15 dining rooms and a wine cellar with 30,000 bottles. You must try the signature souffle potatoes during your visit!

Commander’s Palace

1403 washington avenue,  new orleans, la 70130.

Nestled a little ways outside of the French Quarter in the Garden District, you need to visit this iconic restaurant for .25 cent martinis at lunch.  If you’re feeling adventurous, you should try the turtle soup, pecan-crusted gulf fish, and don’t forget the bread pudding souffle for dessert!

https://www.instagram.com/p/BmnzaU0gS4E/

Cafe Du Monde

800 decatur street,  new orleans, la 70116.

You come to Cafe Du Monde for beignets and beignets only, which you can then wash down with a cafe au lait. Cafe Du Monde is open 24/7 so you have no excuse to miss out on a visit during your New Orleans trip.

819 Rue Conti,  New Orleans, LA 70112

NOLA has some fantastic jazz brunches and the one at Broussards did not disappoint. Make sure to start your morning off with a Brandy Milk Punch cocktail and end your meal with bananas foster for dessert.

Jennifer Aspinwall | World On A Whim

Berkeley, California

https://www.instagram.com/p/BhJ48KiFu88/

Super Duper Burgers

2355 telegraph ave, berkeley, ca 94704.

Super Duper is a local Bay Area chain with a simple menu that focuses on fresh, high-quality ingredients, while keeping prices reasonable and affordable. The burger is the star of the show here, but they also make a delicious chicken sandwich if you’re not into beef. The breakfast sandwich is also tasty and affordable if you are looking for food before 11am!

The Cheese Board

1512 shattuck ave, berkeley, ca 94709.

This combo pizzeria, bakery, and cheese shop has been a Berkeley establishment since the early 70s and is 100% owned by the workers. Each day locals and visitors form a long line out the door waiting to grab a slice, or entire pie, of the one type of pizza being made that day. You’re stuck ordering whatever the pizza of the day is, but everything coming out of their oven is gold.

2130 Center St, Berkeley, CA 94704

Ippuku is an izakaya-style restaurant that nails the entire vibe, aesthetic, and experience of dining in Japan. The specialty here is yakitori, a Japanese style of skewered chicken. The meat is simply prepared with minimal ingredients and grilled over a charcoal fire. In addition to all of the chicken item, the grilled squid is a must-try at Ippuku.

Chez Panisse

1517 shattuck ave, berkeley, ca 94709.

Arguably the most famous restaurant in the Bay Area and one of the top in the country, Chez Panisse is the famed restaurant by Alice Waters known for kicking off the farm-to-table movement in the 1970s. The location consists of the flagship location downstairs with a more casual cafe experience upstairs. The cafe offers an a la carte menu while the restaurant menu is prix fixe.

Kristen Furtado | Travels & Treats

New Haven, Connecticut

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bg1YHpSBRh5/

220 College St,  New Haven, CT 06510

I don’t even know where to begin when it comes to Pacifico, as almost everything on the menu blows me away. This is definitely the place for cocktails and happy hour. The social scene here is also great whether you’re solo or out with friends. My favorite thing on the menu would have to be the Churrasco a la Parrilla , this is grilled steak with chimichurri, which hits the spot every time.

The Rice Pot

1027 state st,  new haven, ct 06511.

The best thing I’ve tried here has been the Shrimp Pad Thai for sure. You really can’t go wrong with this dish. It’s always fresh and flavorful and honestly if I could I would eat here weekly.

155 Temple St,  New Haven, CT 06510

I’ve been to Barcelona in Norwalk, CT and I’ve also been to Barcelona in Fairfield, CT. Needless to say Barcelona is one of my favorite restaurants here in Connecticut. On top of the amazing food they offer, Barcelona of New Haven also has a great atmosphere. You can definitely enjoy a meal here solo or with friends the management and wait staff are great.

But my favorite thing on the menu has to be the gambas al ajillo , a tapas dish of shrimp and garlic. You can smell it coming from a mile away and once it gets to you, it’s tempting not to order another one immediately.

KJ Aponte | KJ Around The World

Kansas City, Missouri

A trip to Kansas City is not complete without having some legendary Kansas City barbecue. The good news is no matter where you are in the city, you are never very far from the dish talked about around the world. Here are my favorite Kansas City BBQ joints:

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Jack Stack BBQ

Multiple locations.

A more recent player in the BBQ game is Jack Stack. They are a well funded operation that is setting up locations all over the city as well. It is very likely you are always within a few miles of one of the restaurants. They seem to have the best pulled pork sandwich in town.

Arthur Bryant’s Barbeque

1727 brooklyn ave, kansas city, mo 64127.

Everyone from Danny Glover to President Obama has visited Arthur Bryant’s at 18th and Brooklyn. I personally enjoy a nice plate of ribs and their in house fries. The sauce is based on vinegar so it is very different than most of the other barbecue shops around the metro.

[irp posts=”3017″ name=”Most Instagrammable Places In London To Eat”]

Gate’s Barbecue

1325 emanuel cleaver ii blvd, kansas city, mo 64110 ( more locations here ).

The other world famous option is Gate’s Barbecue. There is several different locations and they are open all day. I highly recommend the Rib tips with their sauce. They also have nice thick fries made right on location. The location on Linwood and Main seems to be the best for tourists.

No matter which option you choose, make sure that some Kansas City barbecue is in your plans!

Peter Vandever | SLR Foundry

Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville is one of those cities that just has it all, but one of the things it does best is food! It has the perfect combo of classic southern-style foods, ethnic restaurants, BBQ and more. It’s hard to choose where to eat first, but there are a few staples that I have to have every time I visit Asheville.

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Biscuit Head

733 haywood rd, asheville, nc 28806.

The thing to order at Biscuit Head is, you guessed it, biscuits! They have specialty ones, but my favorite is to order a plain biscuit with a side or two and take advantage of their massive jam bar, loaded with unique, homemade jams. Go for breakfast and go early, they get packed!

Early Girl Eatery

8 wall st, asheville, nc 28801.

Located in the heart of downtown, this is the ultimate farm-to-table experience in Asheville. The things I often order here are the multi-grain pancakes with home fries. However, I can easily be swayed by their daily specials.

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White Duck Taco

1 roberts street, asheville, nc 28801 ( more locations here ).

They’re not serving up your typical tacos. Instead think of flavors like Bahn Mi Tofu, Beef Bulgogi and more! My personal favorite is the Bangkok Shrimp and don’t forget the chips and queso. Theirs is some of the best!

Luella’s BBQ

501 merrimon ave, asheville, nc 28804.

Who doesn’t love BBQ? North Carolina is famous for its BBQ and Luella’s is my go-to! I highly recommend their pulled pork or ribs and don’t forget the squash casserole on the side.

Paige Wunder | For the Love of Wanderlust

Kiawah Island, South Carolina

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Cherrywood BBQ & Ale House

700 governors dr, kiawah island, sc 29455, usa.

Situated on the Osprey Point Golf Course, Cherrywood has award winning food, exceptional service, and a fun laid back Southern vibe. If you sit on the wrap around porch, you can watch alligators right below. Anything on this menu is delish but ordering the Mac and Cheese is a must and in the best meats are the pork and turkey. Finish it off with a key lime pie!

219 Farm Lake View Road, Kiawah Island, SC

This local cantina and tacqueria uses the best of South Carolina veggies and meats and puts together some seriously yummy tacos. It is relatively inexpensive, laid back, and quick if you are in a rush. Our favorite things on the menu are; The dirty queso, the black bean sides, the chicken pesto taco, and the BBQ brisket taco. If you are extra hungry, the chimichanga is a ten out of ten!

Jasmine Porch

1 sanctuary beach drive, kiawah island, sc 29455.

Jasmine Porch offers an self proclaimed “elevated low country” cuisine and is absolutely sublime. It is fine dining at its best but without the stuffiness. Nearly everything on the menu is delicious, well prepared, and beautifully served. It is easier to say what not to order, and we have loved everything with the exception of the bone in fish. Make sure that someone orders the crab bisque – you will not be disappointed!

Kamree Gale | Our Family Passport

Queens, New York

If there is any city in the USA that has a better variety of food than Queens, I don’t know it! Queens is the most ethnically diverse place in the entire world, with well over 130 languages spoken in its area. You can eat everything from Sichuan to Nepalese to Filipino to Paraguayan and so much in between.

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7620 Woodside Ave,  Elmhurst, NY

For some of the most legit Thai food in Queens, you can’t miss Khao Kang. My favorite dish is the kra pao moo, which is spicy minced pork with basil. You can choose any 3 entrees you like plus rice for less than $10 so it’s great if you want to sample a few different dishes. Be warned that “spicy” here is insanely spicy!

Little Pepper

18-24 college point blvd, college point, ny.

There are countless varieties of Chinese food in Queens’ many Chinatowns, but Sichuan is one of the tastiest – and also one of the spiciest! You can’t miss the Chongqing chicken if you like spicy food – made with three different peppers, it’s just about guaranteed to make your mouth numb! If you can’t tolerate spice, try the cold sesame noodles and the twice cooked pork.

[irp posts=”2140″ name=”20 Cheap Places to Eat in New York City”]

155-14 Roosevelt Ave, Flushing, NY

If you’re a fan of Korean food, head over to Flushing and Bayside in Queens – the area around Northern Boulevard is where you’ll find some of the best Korean BBQ in the U.S. My favorite thing to order is the LA galbi, which are thin-cut marinated beef short ribs in a delicious, slightly sweet glaze. They taste great with ssamjang sauce and wrapped in lettuce! I also love the ban chan, which are the free side dishes that come with every meal you order.

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Lhasa Fast Food

37-50 74th street, jackson heights, ny.

Only in Queens will you find the best Tibetan food inside of a phone shop! I’m obsessed with the momos at Lhasa Fast Food. The “restaurant” is quite small (if you can even call it that!) so be prepared to wait. But the beef momos with the spicy sauce are well worth the wait.

Tianjin Dumpling House

41-28 main st, flushing, ny.

This small, bare bones dumpling restaurant is located in the basement shopping mall called “Golden Shopping Mall” which has some of the best food in Queens. My favorite thing to order here are the lamb and squash dumplings, but the vegetarian dumplings are quite simply the best veggie dumplings I’ve ever eaten in my life. If it was good enough for Anthony Bourdain, it’s good enough for me!

Allison Green | Eternal Arrival

Nashville, Tennessee

Nashville is known for its hot chicken, its barbecue, and its spin on Southern cuisine. There are plenty of places in Nashville worth stopping into when visiting Music City, but here are my favorites!

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bjvb6iSHU_I/

112 19th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37203

Warning – order the hottest level (aptly named “Shut the Cluck Up”) at your own peril! The chicken is spicy as hell . I was just barely comfortable with the “hot” level, which is the 3rd spiciest! I also liked the black eye pea salad and the pimento mac and cheese as sides.

Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint

410 4th ave s, nashville, tn.

Some of the best pulled pork in the world can be found at Martin’s, just a short walk from downtown Nashville and the honky tonks of Broadway. The ribs are also delicious, falling off the bone and spiced perfectly. And don’t miss a slice of pecan pie for dessert!

[irp posts=”3447″ name=”The Best Afternoon Tea Bus London Has To Offer”]

Acme Feed & Seed

101 broadway, nashville, tn.

The best restaurants you can find on Broadway is Acme, which also has excellent music, a fun rooftop bar, draft beer specials, and of course – amazing food! My favorite are the ‘beer belly tacos’ which come with a pickled daikon and carrot slaw similar to what you’d find on a banh mi. It works perfectly with delicious pulled pork!

Louisville, Kentucky

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Butchertown Grocery

1076 e washington st, louisville, ky.

Butchertown Grocery is one of the best restaurants in Louisville. It’s located in a neighborhood called Butchertown, which was filled with warehouses and factories when I was growing up but has since evolved into an uber-hip district filled with art spaces, theatres, and distilleries. Everything at Butchertown Grocery is amazing, hand-crafted, artisanal, and deliciously boujie, but our favorite meal of the day here is brunch.

Try the pecan salad topped with jalapeno blue cheese ice cream, or a heaping plate of candied chicken & waffles (bring a few friends to share), You’ll also find an incredible selection of drinks, like a Bloody Mary with a shank of bone marrow in it. Or just head upstairs – there’s a speakeasy hidden in the attic!

Proof on Main

702 w. main st, louisville, ky  ( downtown).

Proof on Main, the unique restaurant in Louisville’s famous 21C Museum Hotel, is every bit as quirky as its hotel home. Redecorated regularly with its own series of installations, the restaurant is an art museum in its own right. Oh, and the food is magnificent.

Proof is an excellent place for brunch, lunch, and/or dinner (why not 3 in a day?). Dinner options at Proof include a blackberry pop tart with chicken liver pate & cracklin’, braised rabbit ragout, and roasted bones. What are roasted bones? I guess you’ll have to visit Proof and find out…

1001 Baxter Avenue, Louisville, KY

GraleHaus is another one of our favorite brunch spots in Louisville. It’s multi-functional: part bar, part coffee shop, part restaurant, and part Bed & Breakfast. Food highlights include the oyster mushroom crepe, duck hash, and ground lamb with grits.

In addition to delicious food, they serve just about every type of beverage you could want. Kombucha, cold brew, beer, mimosas…. they even have crazy coffee drinks, like a Sorghum Cortado and a Lucky Charms Latte (yes, made with the milk left over from a bowl of Lucky Charms. You know you want it).

Lia Garcia | Practical Wanderlust

St. Louis, Missouri

In the midst of the American heartland, and once the gateway to the west, St. Louis has long been a throughway. All that traffic has left the city an interesting blend of culture, and foods, so you can find a bit of everything. Gourmet choices may be limited, but delicious food is not! Read on to find out my top picks.

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St. Louis is known for two all-American foods: St. Louis Barbecue, and Ooey Gooey Butter Cake. Try St. Louis Barbecue at Pappy’s Smokehouse . It is is the absolute best!  If you prefer sweets, try Ooey Gooey Butter Cake at Park Avenue Coffee . Another American specialty that locals brag about is Gus’ Fried Chicken . They say it beats anything found in the south.

Visitors are often surprised to learn that St. Louis has an Italian neighborhood called The Hill . There really is no hill, but there ARE numerous restaurants, almost all owned by Italian families. Maybe not every Italian mother was a fabulous cook, but we have never had a bad meal in The Hill.

Mission Taco Joint

6235 delmar blvd, st. louis, mo 63130 ( more locations here ).

For a different twist on street tacos, try Mission Taco Joint. Not only will you find true Mexican tacos, there are a number of other creative options, and some vegan choices.

Broadway Oyster Bar

736 s broadway, st. louis, mo 63102.

Our overall favorite is Broadway Oyster Bar. It is downtown and gets a bit touristy around game time, but people come from miles around for the music and the food. It may be the best cajun outside of NOLA, and it is truly sumptuous. Be prepared to wait though, as Broadway usually has a crowd.

Roxanna Keyes | Gypsy With A Day Job

Birmingham, Alabama

https://www.instagram.com/p/BhfEcNHh2ys/

Highlands Bar & Grill

2011 11th ave s, birmingham, al 35205.

Widely known as the Godfather of Southern Cuisine, Frank Stitt and his wife and partner Pardis Stitt have owned and operated the Highlands Bar and Grill in downtown Birmingham since 1982.

The menu changes very frequently but you truly can’t go wrong. Armed with classical French training, Stitt transforms Southern ingredients into sheer works of art. After being nominated for Outstanding Restaurant by the James Beard Foundation, Highlands took home the honor in 2018.

To order: Stone Ground Baked Grits with Prosciutto, Mushrooms, Thyme. The most elegant plate of grits you’ll eat in your entire life. 

Chez Fon Fon

2007 11th ave s, birmingham, al 35205.

Just down the block from Highlands Bar and Grill is Chez Fon Fon, Highlands sister restaurant but the vibe couldn’t be more different. As soon as you walk in you are transported to a bustling cafe packed to the gills with friends and families eating, drinking, and celebrating, sometimes for no reason at all.

The hamburger is grilled to perfection on a pillowy brioche bun and served with a silver cup of golden frites. Their desserts are out of this world, the Coconut Cake being their signature. Their pastry chef Dolester Miles won Most Outstanding Pastry Chef honor from the James Beard Foundation in 2018.

To order: Hamburger and a slice of Coconut Cake.

O’Carrs

214 18th st s, birmingham, al 35209.

It may seem silly for a deli to make a best of restaurant list but I’d be willing to put it up against any in the entire country. They’ve been around for decades and grown so much so that they have locations all around the city. I am from Birmingham, Alabama originally and grew up going to the OG location in the Homewood neighborhood of Birmingham.

The place is teeny tiny so you may end up sitting at a table with total strangers but that’s just part of the experience. Seriously, the best chicken salad I’ve ever had. You can get it on a sandwich with a salad or with fruit; my favorite. Not your run of the mill bunch of grapes; I’m talking starfruit, apple, melon, papaya, berries, the list goes on and on.

When you walk in the door, look to your left and you can see the staff quickly carving the fruits up for each plate. If you have room, get a chocolate milkshake –  they’re old school and totally worth every bit.

To order: Chicken Salad & Fruit Plate.

Emily Hines | Em’s On The Road

Santa Fe, New Mexico

https://www.instagram.com/p/BjlGRoLnZ3b/

808 Canyon Rd, Santa Fe, New Mexico

​El Farol is a lively cantina set in a rambling old house that brims with history and art. Ever since the 80’s, this quaint canteen has been the go-to place to hear live music. The menu features traditional Spanish tapas to enjoy while sipping margaritas and enjoying Santa Fe’s most classic musical atmosphere, including flamenco. The walls of El Farol are an attraction of their own, featuring stunning murals and vintage photographs of New Mexico.

Caffe Greco

233 canyon rd, santa fe, new mexico.

Much like El Farol, Caffe Greco is set in Santa Fe’s most quirky street: Canyon Road.

Filled with independent art galleries, cozy cafés, and lively colors, this street is one of Santa Fe’s most iconic places for all things artsy.

Caffe Greco is a colorful café that lives up to Canyon Road’s creative vibes. Try Santa Fe’s signature dish here: green chili cheeseburger at the café’s art-filled patio amid unconventional sculptures and paintings.

Maria’s

555 cordova road, santa fe, new mexico.

This quaint little restaurant is the go-to spot for Santa Fe’s locals to delve into traditional New Mexican cuisine. It’s set inside white adobe walls, all which are decorated with traditional decor.

Their house specialty is blue corn enchiladas, paired with a glass of margarita, of course!

Phoenix, Arizona

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Jalapeno Buck’s

3434 n val vista dr, mesa, az 85213.

Roadside barbeque at its finest! If this is the only place you eat in the greater Phoenix area, you are going to be winning. Don’t miss the ½ pound brisket sandwich oozing with peanut butter and grape jelly. It sounds strange – but I promise – it does not disappoint. You’ll find yourself returning just for this!

LON’s at Hermosa Inn

5532 n palo cristi rd, paradise valley, az 85253.

Located inside a smaller luxury hotel, LON’s is coming in hot with one of the best restaurants in the area. Highly recommend the braised beef short ribs with the goat cheese polenta! The meet is juicy and savory – and the chef has prepared it to perfection!

Sweet Republic

6054 n 16th st, phoenix, az 85016.

Best place for artisan ice cream! The sorbet AND the ice cream is sensational. The turtle sundae with bacon and the 3 scoop sorbet were favorites.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BdDGuB8n620/

Hyatt Regency Scottsdale – Wine Me, Dine Me!

7500 e doubletree ranch rd, scottsdale, az 85258.

The menu will most likely not be the same with each visit but the chefs do a really great job of pairing food and beverages. The chef plays with southwest flavors and pairs tequilas and wines with the dishes.

The Canal Club

4925 n scottsdale rd. scottsdale, az 85251.

Located inside the Scott Resort and Spa – The Canal Club is both an interior designers dream AND a place worth dining! I recommend the paella as I found it to be both fresh and cooked perfectly.

Nicole Sunderland | Eat Live Travel Drink

Napa Valley, California

Napa Valley, California, is home to numerous world-class restaurants. Here are my picks for the most awesome eats in Northern California’s famed wine country:

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The French Laundry

6640 washington st,  yountville, ca 94599.

Chef Thomas Keller’s acclaimed restaurant boasts three Michelin stars. Two tasting menus are offered daily, one of them vegetarian. According to the restaurant, no ingredient is ever repeated in the course of a meal. The menu changes daily, and the presentations are works of art. If you want to go, you’ll need to make a reservation several weeks in advance. Perfect for that very special dinner!

Farmstead at Long Meadow Ranch

738 main st, st helena, ca 94574.

I love Farmstead’s rustic ambiance and focus on farm-fresh ingredients. Their kitchen garden is right next to the restaurant! Their menu changes, but I love their warm burrata appetizer and their savory Cheddar biscuits! Every entree I have had at Farmstead has been delicious so you can’t go wrong with anything on the menu. Ideal for lunch. Call ahead and make a reservation.

Gott’s Roadside Diner

933 main st,  st. helena, ca 94574.

Gott’s actually has quite an extensive menu, but they are famous for their burgers. I have never passed by Gott’s in St. Helena without there being a long line of customers waiting for their turn to sample one of the Napa Valley’s most famous offerings. My husband loves the Kimchi Burger!

Dhara | Not About The Miles

Orlando, Florida

Orlando has truly risen to the challenge of incredible cocktail and cuisine programs to rival some of the top culinary cities of the United States. Here are a few of my favorite local spots!

https://www.instagram.com/p/Blqjq7FgX08/

8060 Via Dellagio Way,  Orlando, FL 32819 (through the unmarked elevator door)

Speakeasy themed bars and restaurants have been popular for quite some time. This swanky spot in the Dr. Philips neighborhood is tucked away behind an unlabeled elevator door at the end of “Restaurant Row’.

The food menu rotates based on seasonal creations, but one of my favorites that has lasted on the menu has been the bone marrow. The cocktails are boozy and unique, with respectful nods to prohibition era ingredients and flavors.

East End Market, 3201 Corrine Dr Suite 100, Orlando, FL 32803

Ramen inspired cuisine has really hit the United States foodie trend hard in the past two to three years.  Domu makes their own broths in house as well as cooking their pork belly to perfection, tender and flavor packed, I always order an additional pork belly on whichever bowl I choose.

Often the wait time in their original Winter Park location can be almost an hour, but I don’t mind, the bar offers creative and well-crafted cocktails while you wait.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BVJ27K8FRUo/

Santiago’s Bodega

802 virginia dr, orlando, fl 32803.

I have enjoyed Santiago’s for every possible meal offering over the years, and each time I just leave feeling so happy and a bit giddy. The décor is charming with an eclectic blend of art, whimsical mismatched chandeliers and bright colors. The food menu also rotates seasonally, but what I love is the tapas style dining.

Everyone in your dining party orders a few plates and shares across the table. The flavors are always bold, and each dish is well prepared and artfully presented.

Kristin | Sippin Gypsy

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Fuzzy’s tacos, 208 johnny bench dr suite c, oklahoma city, ok 73104.

Fuzzy’s is the perfect middle ground between fast food and a sit down restaurant. The ingredients are fresh and the atmosphere is buzzing – especially on game day! The frozen margaritas are delicious too.

What to order: Shredded Chicken Taco, Chips & Queso

Empire Slice House

1734 nw 16th, oklahoma city, ok 73106.

Located in the trendy plaza district, Empire Slice House is the best pizza in OKC. They’ve also just opened up Easy E next door, where you can grab your favorite slice to go.

What to order: MCA

https://www.instagram.com/p/BkagkL6HeLJ/

1101 N Broadway Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73103

One of the best spots for brunch in OKC! There are pancakes, chicken and waffles, or eggs Benedict, all washed down with a boozy brunch cocktail.

What to order: Famous PanOKCake

4315 N. Western Avenue, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73118

Named after legendary samurai swordsman Miyamoto Musashi, this Japanese steakhouse does excellent sushi and other Japanese dishes. Sit at the bar to watch your food made with artistry right in front of you.

What to order: Shrimp Tempura Roll

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S&B’s Burger Joint

20 nw 9th street, oklahoma city, ok 73102.

Unique gourmet burger choices to suit every taste, complete with a rock and roll theme. The burgers are juicy and mouthwatering, perfectly complemented by their milkshakes and soda floats.

What to order: Sir Bac-A-Lot Burger

Joe and Kayla | JKGO

Manhattan, New York

https://www.instagram.com/p/BmZZo68ngRi/

321 West 51st Street, New York, NY 10019 (b/t 8th and 9th Avenue)

Ippudo remains one of the best ramen houses in New York City. You’ll always wait in line for at least 1 hour for dinner – lunch time is an excellent way to slip in for under an hour wait, or if you’re extra smooth, arrive right when they open at 11am! Each time you wait, it will be worth it.

As quoted on their website “Ramen is a Microcosmos in a Bowl, and Ramen is Japan’s Soul Food.” I couldn’t agree more! Whether it’s a cold winter day where you need the warmth and comfort of a hot, satisfying bowl of ramen, or a scorching summer day where you crave the taste of supremely delicious and consistent food.

Once you are in, your presence is announced in Japanese that a new customer has arrived, they quickly lead you to your table in the eternally crowded restaurant. It’s for a good reason. Now, I used to live across the street from this Ippudo location, literally, and I couldn’t get enough of it!

Do not miss the Hirata chicken buns – you’ll suddenly find yourself in need of a savings account dedicated to these chicken buns, start with one order, then do yourself a favor and get at least one more! Also notable is the ever-changing appetizer menu, but one item that remains year-round is the shishito peppers for the spicy-inclined, and for ramen, always go for the classic! Shiromaru Hakata Classic ramen : pork broth with Ippudo Westside’s signature thin noodles, pork loin chashu, sesame kikurage, mushrooms, menma, red picked ginger, and scallions.

Empire Diner

210 10th ave,  new york, ny 10011 , b/t 22nd st & 23rd st.

If there was ever a restaurant I wanted to live inside, it’s Empire Diner! It’s my goal to try everything on the menu one day. Empire is a Chelsea neighborhood classic since 1976 and was revamped by chef John DeLucie who partnered with another Chelsea institution: Cafeteria.

It’s easy to see and feel the influence from Cafeteria’s solid, honest food when you step into Empire, but you also feel the unique charm of Empire’s location and modern design against the traditional New York buildings. The last time I met a good fellow foodie friend there, and I ordered the soft scramble eggs cacio e pepe , the waitress confessed that when she started working there, she ate that exact dish everyday for 2 months!

New American food has continued to be innovative in a way that is both familiar and comforting while being putting a twist on some of the most treasured foods we have grown up eating. For those that need the power of protein in the morning like I do, my first choice is always eggs. The soft scramble of the eggs is perfectly soft without being too runny, the cracked black pepper is just the right amount sprinkled on top, and the parmesan and speck add another level of comfort and beautiful salty texture to this spectacular breakfast dish. ( Bonus: you also get some French bread alongside this dish, making it absolutely perfect!)

They serve breakfast until 4pm, which is very helpful for varying NYC or visitor schedules, and being open from 8am-1am makes a visit there a no-brainer!

https://www.instagram.com/p/BlzS8Y1B4Tp/

77 St. Mark’s Place,  New York, NY 10003

Barbara Sibley, owner and chef of La Palapa, was born and raised in Mexico City. This makes all the difference in the world for her approach to her cuisine! You’ll feel the passion and authenticity of her love for her home in every dish. La Palapa truly remains one of the solid institutions of authentic Mexican restaurants in New York City, and for anyone who thinks New York City doesn’t do Mexican food well, please visit this restaurant!

Opened since 2000, you’ll be sure to find a delight for all of your senses at La Palapa. Her expert way of serving food that has a lot of textures and flavors makes it an experience that you’ll want to have weekly! La Palapa serves breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner, dessert, and caters. The unique and authentic approach comes from Barbara’s studies of anthropology in addition to a love of collecting “traditional, rare, and ancient Mexican recipes including 17th century recipes from Mexico’s convent kitchens,” according to the website.

Her approach to cocktails involves many layers of flavors- I suggest one of the flavored frozen margaritas – my personal favorite is Hibiscus Tamarind. For dinner, don’t miss the  Enchilads de Pollo Verdes o en Mole Rojo ( chicken enchiladas in your choice of tomatillo green salsa or rich red mole), with housemade queso fresco, mexican crema, sweet onion.

If you have room for dessert, try the  Parfait Azteca de Oro , or sweet harvest corn ice cream parfait with home made cajeta with toasted macadamia nuts. You’ll thank me later!

Mira Zaki | The Healing Art of Travel

Austin, Texas

Franklin’s bbq, 900 e 11th st, austin, tx 78702.

Google “America’s best BBQ,” and you’ll find Franklin’s BBQ ranked pretty high up on the list. As if the glowing reviews aren’t enough, the four hour queue you’ll face at the store is pretty much a testament to just how perfect these smoked brisket, tender pulled pork, and tasty ribs are.

With a 4.5 star rating on Yelp, there’s no doubt that the BBQ there is worth the wait – some might even say that it’s to die for, especially the brisket that melts in your mouth.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BeRbn6jjc5F/

6808 North Lamar Boulevard, #B-110, Austin, TX 78752

There was a time when I was obsessed with Poke Bowls. Sadly, these bowls of deliciously sauced raw fish chunks do not come cheap. I stumbled upon Ola Poke by chance, and upon discovering that they did not charge extra for an avocado scoop (unlike many other Poke restaurants), I knew that I had hit jackpot.

Their house sauce is a must try, if you like your Poke on a slightly tangy-sweet note. They also offer a generous scoop of crab meat, which gives the bowl a creamy and soft texture. I’m not trying to be dramatic or over-hype this place, but Ola Poke has changed my life and I’ve not come across a more delicious or affordable Poke bowl in the US.

Roppolo’s Pizza

316 east 6th st., austin, texas 78701.

Conveniently located on Sixth Street – a place known for its vibrant nightlife, it’s impossible for you to visit Austin and not have a taste of Roppolo’s Pizza. Nothing wraps up a night better than a huge, warm slice of cheesy pizza topped with pepperoni, bacon, sausage, and meatballs. If you’re a meat lover, The Godfather ($5.25) would be your best pick.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BmHy4IwjlNF/

Hopdoddy Burger Bar

1400 s congress ave ste a190, austin, tx 78704.

Primetime burger. Truffle parmesan fries. Nutella & Chocolate Pretzel shake. Everything I’ve tried at the Hopdoddy Burger Bar is divine. There’s usually a long queue, especially on the weekends, but the line moves pretty quickly.

The food and milkshakes at Hopdoddy boast rich flavours that will satisfy you to the bone. Also, bring your friends or family along with you so that you can try out a greater variety of dishes such as the Sweet Potato Fries. You’ll also save yourself from the dilemma of choosing just one milkshake, out of all the delicious sounding concoctions.

Emma Lee | Exchange Buddy

South Lake Tahoe, California

1900 jameson beach rd., south lake tahoe, ca 96150.

The Beacon is a local favorite in the historic Camp Richardson area. With incredible beach views and live music during the summer months, this is the perfect spot to spend an evening on the beach at Lake Tahoe. Locals rave about their fish and chips, and they make a mean Caesar salad. Don’t miss their famous Rum Runner frozen drinks too!

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bml4d3elRFt/

900 Ski Run Boulevard South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150

The Riva Grill is another waterside dining location with awesome beach views at the Ski Run Marina. You’ll definitely want a patio seat if you’re there in nice weather. Their menu is so good that it’s hard to pick just one dish, but you can’t go wrong with anything that comes with fries – theirs are some of the best I’ve ever eaten.

Blue Dog Pizza

4000 lake tahoe blvd, a1 south lake tahoe / 2556 lake tahoe blvd south lake tahoe.

This amazing pizza place has dine-in and delivery options from their two South Lake Tahoe locations and everything I’ve had from them is delicious. The Walk the Dog pizza – featuring white sauce, cheese, spinach, chicken, bacon, and garlic – is absolutely heavenly.

Kris | Nomad By Trade

Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston, South Carolina is a foodie haven and you cannot go far without finding some of the best Southern food you will ever eat. In fact, the food is a big reason why I keep going back.

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Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit

476 1/2 king st, charleston, sc 29403.

There are two locations in Charleston to get your biscuit fix: 476 1/2 King Street and 188 Meeting Street in City Market. Get here early or be prepared to wait in a line that stretches out the door.  The “three little biscuits” are great when you want some variety.

155 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29401

I love the French Toast here. It is an extraordinarily thick piece of currant bread perfectly cooked on the outside and delightfully custardy on the inside.

Page’s Okra Grill

302 coleman blvd, mt pleasant, sc 29464.

The shrimp and grits with andouille cream sauce is phenomenal. For the true Southern experience, order a side of fried okra. A perfect place to visit after the beach and the patio is dog-friendly.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bkdd0G7n6El/

Hominy Grill

207 rutledge ave, charleston, sc 29403.

Another great place for shrimp and grits. Topped with mushrooms and bacon, it is a little less decadent than the shrimp and grits from Page’s but more than makes up for it with flavor.

1075 E Montague Ave, North Charleston, SC 29405

As if the food wasn’t enough of a draw, grab a seat at the bar, order a craft beer, and watch the pizza maker in action. I can vouch for the perfection that is the Pork Trifecta pizza.

Kristal | Adventure Dawgs

Buffalo, New York

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Duff’s Famous Wings

4545 transit rd, buffalo, ny 14221, usa.

When in Buffalo, you have to eat Buffalo wings and Duff’s is a great place to try them if you want to turn up the heat. Duff’s wings may blow your head off. To make things confusing, medium is hot, medium hot is very hot and hot is very, very hot.

The Original Pancake House

5479 main st, williamsville, ny 14221, usa.

For a proper breakfast, head to the Original Pancake House. Try peanut butter pancakes with a strawberry sauce and wash it all down with a bottomless cup of coffee.

Charlie the Butcher

1065 wehrle dr, williamsville, ny 14221, usa.

Buffalo is famous for beef on weck and Charlie the Butcher’s in Cheektowaga is the go to place to get it. Covered in salt and caraway seeds, a crusty weck roll pairs well with roast beef. Beef on weck goes perfectly with another Buffalo favorite: loganberry pop. A loganberry is a blackberry/raspberry hybrid. Buffalo is the one place in the world where I’ve seen the loganberry made into a sweet non-carbonated soft drink. Oh, and in Buffalo, it’s pop, not soda. Don’t make that mistake or you’ll immediately be identified as a tourist.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BmThw5qAHKo/

Local Kitchen and Beer Bar

88 w chippewa st, buffalo, ny 14202, usa.

Local serves up foodie interpretations of classic Buffalo comfort food. Don’t miss the perogi which are named after different neighborhoods in Buffalo. The Cheektowaga Polka, a pierogi with spare ribs and carmelized onions is my top pick.

Tap House Pub and Grill

85 w chippewa st, buffalo, ny 14202, usa.

Buffalo boasts a thriving craft beer scene and Tap House Pub and Grill downtown is a great spot to sample local brews. Western New York is also a grape growing region. Try Deep Purple from Empire Brewing Company, a beer brewed with Concord grapes.

Jennifer (aka Dr. J) | Sidewalk Safari

Portland, Oregon

https://www.instagram.com/p/BmY697OFxmM/

Mother’s Bistro & Bar

212 sw stark st, portland, or 97204.

Mother’s Bistro & Bar in Portland, Oregon is one of those places that you make you feel right at home. The breakfast menu includes some familiar favorites like Belgian waffles but the real star is my favorite dish, the wild salmon hash. This dish is so creamy and delicious I think about it even when traveling on the other side of the world!

3226 SE Division St, Portland, OR 97202

Pok Pok became world-famous for the commitment chef/owner Andy Ricker made to creating authentic Thai dishes at this Portland-based restaurant. You won’t find the typical take-out Thai dishes on the menu. Instead, order family-style and share several dishes that introduce you to real Thai food. I like the Yam Makheua Yao, a smoky eggplant salad, and Da Chom’s Laap Meuang, a minced meat dish popular in northern Thailand.

Tin Shed Garden Cafe

1438 ne alberta st, portland, or 97211.

Dog lovers will especially like this brunch and lunch spot that takes dog-friendly to a whole new level. This hip spot has a Pacific Northwest vibe and some of the best burgers around. I order their divine Beet Generation salad with Oregon goat cheese and hazelnuts.

Departure Restaurant

525 sw morrison st, portland, or 97204.

For Asian fusion in a chic rooftop restaurant with city views, plan to eat at Departure restaurant. Dim sum and sushi are prepared decadently. Try ordering the miso scallops, beef rendang or crispy pork belly, and definitely sip one of their amazing cocktails!

Cerise Roth-Vinson | Enchanted Vagabond

San Francisco, California

San Francisco is one of the most diverse cities in the country, as such it also has some of the nation’s delicious eats. From seafood, to delicious baked goodies, American-style Italian, and Chinese, there is something for everyone! Here are some of my favorites:

https://www.instagram.com/p/BlZxy-pFeWq/

552 Green Street, San Francisco, CA 94133

Sotto Mare is self-proclaimed to have “The Best Damn Crab Cioppino in San Francisco” and I’ve found this to be true! The cioppino is some of the best I’ve had in the city and the portions of one order are large enough to serve at least 2 people. It’s got amazing crab flavor and super fresh seafood.

Fun Fact: Cioppino was initially made by Italian immigrants in San Francisco’s North Beach as a “today’s special” type of tomato-based soup by combining leftovers of the day’s fresh catch, typically a mixture of crab, shrimp, mussels, and fish with onions, garlic, tomatoes, fresh herbs, olive oil, and wine.

What to order: “The Best Damn Crab Cioppino” with Seafood

Hog Island Oyster Company

1 ferry building #11a, the embarcadero, san francisco, ca 94111.

Though San Francisco isn’t the birthplace of clam chowder, Hog Island Oyster Company has the city’s best version of it. It’s fresh, creamy soup isn’t overly heavy even with the potato and bacon added to it. It’s much better than Boudin’s on Fisherman’s Wharf.

What to order: Chowder

Thanh Long Restaurant

4101 judah st, san francisco, ca 94122.

One of the city’s most renowned Vietnamese spots is Thanh Long Restaurant. They are most famous for their Chef Diana An’s garlic noodles. She created this recipe when she was inspired by Italian spaghetti and created a fusion dish of her own using lots of garlic.

What to order: Garlic Noodles

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Arsicault Bakery

397 arguello blvd, san francisco, ca 94118.

Arsicault Bakery was named the best bakery in the nation by Bon Appetit. The croissants are triangles of flaky, buttery goodness. The outside is slightly crispy and the inside is soft and doughy, they are definitely the best croissants we’ve had outside of France. They also come in a few flavors, but we love their chocolate almond croissants the most!

What to order: Croissants, especially their chocolate almond one!

R&G Lounge

631 kearny st,  san francisco, ca 94108.

R&G Lounge, a San Francisco Chinatown institution, is famous throughout the city for their Chinese food. They’re particularly known for their signature salt and pepper crab. The crab doesn’t come cheap because they sell it based upon market price, but it is super delicious and totally worth it!

What to order: Salt & Pepper Crab

Constance | The Adventures of Panda Bear

Albuquerque, New Mexico

https://www.instagram.com/p/BeIsUDugsTF/

Sandiago’s Grill at Sandia Tram Peak

30 tramway rd ne, albuquerque, nm 87122.

Sandiago’s Grill offers both great food and spectacular views from the top of Sandia Crest at over 10,000 ft elevation! Ride the 2.7 mile Sandia Peak Tramway to the top for stunning sunsets, city lights and panoramic views of the Sandia and Manzano mountains. Great taco plates, cocktails and a kids menu make this fun for everyone!

Blake’s Lotaburger

777 rio grande blvd nw, albuquerque, nm 87104.

Blake’s Lotaburger is a local favorite for green chile cheeseburgers in a classic diner burger joint. Grab your favorite burger plus onion rings and pick a spot to enjoy it nearby at the Albuquerque Bio Park. Many locations in Albuquerque, so pick your favorite and enjoy it near the Bosque trails along the Rio Grande river or near Old Town.

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Sadie’s of New Mexico

6230 4th st nw, los ranchos de albuquerque , nm 87107.

Sadie’s of New Mexico is where I go when I have missed home and need my green chile fix! Authentic New Mexico food includes the best tamales, chile rellenos, queso with green chile, carne and other favorites. Make sure you say ‘Christmas’ when they ask if you want red or green chile with your meal. You’ll get both to try!

2200 Menaul Blvd NE A, Albuquerque, NM 87107

The Range Cafe has two locations and both are excellent for New Mexico diner fare served all day long. This is the place to go for breakfast or brunch to enjoy blue corn pancakes with blueberries and toasted pinon or spinach enchiladas with country turkey sausage with green chile. Casual setting and friendly staff make this a family-friendly place to go for great food in Albuquerque.

10500 4th St NW, Albuquerque, NM 87114

El Pinto is a long-time favorite for New Mexican food in a hacienda setting with great patio dining and views of the valley and mountains. I especially like their stuffed sopapillas, posole and chile con carne enchiladas. They also have gluten-free options and a fantastic margarita and tequila bar.

Lafayette, Louisiana

Lafayette Louisiana is Cajun Country and it’s Southern, so your taste buds are in for a treat when you travel to Lafayette. Because it’s located close to the coast means fresh seafood is plentiful. Wandering the USA and Canada on my multi-year road trip, Lafayette became home for a few months while I explored the culture via music and food, my favorite way to get to know a new place.

Here are my top 5 picks for where to eat in Lafayette, Louisiana. Enjoy!

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The Saint Street Inn

407 brook ave, lafayette, la 70506.

At brunch order the Shrimp and Grits. I also love the Fried Brussels and Pork Belly appetizer. Enjoy live music on the patio while you snarf down all this Louisiana deliciousness.

412 Jefferson St, Lafayette, LA 70501

The sushi is great, but I also love the Blackened Salmon with kimchee smothered collard greens served with brown rice.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BgcNqdHA7Hu/

Pamplona Tapas Bar

631 jefferson st, lafayette, la 70501.

The Charcuterie and Cheese plate is excellent!

Old Tyme Grocery

218 w st mary blvd, lafayette, la 70506.

Glenn Murphree’s grocery store and po’boy sandwiches. I go for the classic fried shrimp po’boy. Large patio and indoor seating as well.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Biw5pWShx2X/

French Press

214 e vermilion st, lafayette, la 70501.

Love the décor, go for breakfast and get the Chicken and Waffles.

Susan Moore | Solo Trips and Tips

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Tony luke’s, 39 e oregon ave, philadelphia, pa 19148.

Forget the overrated rivalry between Pat’s and Geno’s. When friends visit, I only go with them because it’s on their “bucket list,” but I’ve always been slightly disappointed with their food. For the best cheesesteak in the city, go straight to Tony Luke’s. Delicious cheesesteak, but also perfect for groups because there’s a great vegetarian option (Uncle Mike) made with broccoli rabe, spinach, peppers, fried onions, and marinara sauce.

What to order: Cheesesteak (with American cheese, onions, and mushrooms)

Fuji Mountain

2030 chestnut st, philadelphia, pa 19103.

This is simply good sushi. Fuji Mountain is one of my regular go-to restaurants in Philly because the quality meets the price point perfectly. Try my two favorite rolls and you won’t be disappointed!

What to order: Dragon maki and the Inferno specialty roll

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bl_GQtQnPpD/

Luke’s Lobster

130 s 17th st, philadelphia, pa 19103.

Sustainable seafood sourced directly from fishermen. High-quality food at a fair price.

What to order: Lobster roll + Cape Cod chips

1122 Washington Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19147

Get the large size; the pho here is perfect and delicious. At less than $8, it’ll also be one of your favorite budget meals. It’s not in the prettiest part of town, but that’s part of the charm. Go there for lunch on your way from the Italian Market .

What to order: Pho #1

Kay Winters | Paws and Pines

Waikiki –  Honolulu, Hawaii

Waikiki draws visitors in droves from all around the globe and they all have one thing in common. They have to eat. Finding sustenance in Waikiki is not difficult but I’ll guide you to three of the best:

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1831 Ala Moana Blvd, Honolulu, Hawaii 96815

When the massive portions served all over Waikiki get a bit too much and you are craving something a little healthier, head to Goofy’s. The Acai bowls are always a big hit and I loved the local Loco Moco.

Buho Cocina y Cantina

2250 kalakaua ave, honolulu, hawaii 96815.

Buho offers a modern take on Mexican cuisine in the heart of Waikiki. Enter via an elevator near Victoria’s Secret and head up to the 4 th floor to the delightful rooftop space. Try the fajitas!

Cheesecake Factory

2301 kalakaua avenue, honolulu, hawaii 96815.

If you are from the USA and are lucky enough to be able to eat at the Cheesecake Factory whenever you like you are probably wondering why I have included this. Well, to Aussies abroad, this is a real treat. The meals are huge and good value, but the wait at Waikiki is always close to an hour at dinner. Try the Louisiana Chicken.

Allison Smith | Flights to Fancy

Savannah, Georgia

Savanah, GA, should be on your must-visit list for many reasons, including walking in the shade of enormous oak trees, exploring the architecture that is more reminiscent of European capitals than American cities, and seeing Mercer-Williams house from the notorious “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil” with your own eyes. But my favorite is all the delicious Southern food you can find here!

https://www.instagram.com/p/BlnyX6IBqOv/

Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room

107 w jones st, savannah, ga 31401.

Start early in the day with Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room . Although this place is perfect for lunch, you’ll have to come at around 9.30-10 AM and stay in line to get your hands on Mrs. Wilkes famous fried chicken. There’s no a la carte menu, instead you get preset menu of Southern staples like candied yams, butter beans, beef stew and sausage. The tables are shared by 10-12 people so you end up having a meal with complete strangers, all the while chatting and getting to know each other.

Collins Quarter

151 bull st, savannah, ga 31401.

A great spot for having a little break from exploring the city is the Collins Quarter . Here, you must order lavender spiced Mocha that is made using lavender syrup and real lavender flowers. It’s smack in the heart of Savannah, has great ambience and all in all a perfect little spot for a cup of coffee and a quick meal.

Olde Pink House

23 abercorn st, savannah, ga 31401.

Lastly, for dinner head to the Olde Pink House which was named for the light shade of pink stucco covering the bricks. The restaurant is located in an XVIII century mansion, one of the few buildings that survived the fire of 1796. Reservations are a must at this fine-dining spot featuring the best of low-country cuisine.

Yulia Dyukova | The Foodie Miles

Chicago, Illinois

https://www.instagram.com/p/BmOE9rKFp0x/

Wildberry Pancakes & Café

196 east pearson street, chicago/ 130 e. randolph street, chicago.

Favourite amongst locals for brunch – Wildberry Café offers mouth watering pancakes, Belgian waffles and crepes! The stylish diner also serves skillets, omelettes and speciality eggs Benedict. My favourite would have to be the Wild Mushroom Omelette, the Banana Pecan Belgian Waffle and Creamy Nutella Wild Pan Crepes! The portion size is incredible and it’s best to go on the early side of brunch to avoid long queues!

Riva Crabhouse

700 east grand avenue, chicago – navy pier.

Specializing in seafood, Riva Crabhouse is an upmarket restaurant with views from the Navy Pier. The Seafood Feast consisting of Maine lobster, shrimp and king crab was my favourite – definitely worth the price! The White Chocolate Crème Brulee is the perfect dessert to compliment the Seafood Feast. The restaurant is two storeys; a late lunch on the upper storey, with a glass of wine is the perfect way to wind down with amazing views of the city and Lake Michigan.

661 West Walnut Street, Chicago

This unlikely 2 Michelin star restaurant is located in a warehouse, down an alley! Oriole offers a tasting menu (set menu with wine pairing), reservations are hard to get as the wait list is a long one since the restaurant seats about 25 people. If you really want an executive experience – make a reservation before your trip to Chicago to check their availability. The sommelier has already paired wines, cocktails as well as sake to accompany the menu.  The food is impeccable to the palate so I can’t choose favourites.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BjVD_YhHiJi/

Giordano’s

130 east randolph street, chicago – various locations..

If you’re after Chicago’s famous deep-dish pizza, Giordano’s is a must try! Their pizzas are huge, and filling – stacked with toppings/fillings and cheese and cooked to perfection! Giordano’s has been around since the 1970s in Chicago, bringing their authentic recipes from Italy. The Super-Veggie Deep Dish pizza is delicious; you really don’t notice there’s no meat. Their starter – Tomato Bruschetta is also my favourite!

Yeshi Sewdayal | Hello Yeshi

Boston, Massachusetts

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bj52cZ4ByYp/

Buttermilk & Bourbon

160 commonwealth avenue, boston, ma 02116, usa.

As a big fan of southern cuisine and traveling in the south in general, before I ate at Buttermilk & Bourbon you would have been hard-pressed to convince me that Boston could make great southern food–but at Buttermilk & Bourbon, they sure can.

Every single thing we ordered at brunch, from chicken & waffles to a scotch egg, was utterly delicious–but nothing more so than the biscuits. Trust me on this: if you visit Buttermilk & Bourbon, you must get the biscuits.

Ristorante Euno

119 salem st, boston, ma 02113, usa.

Many restaurants in the North End (Boston’s “Little Italy”, though good luck finding a local that calls it that) are duds, but the North End is not one of those restaurants.

This is one of the best Italian restaurants we have dined at in the USA, and one of the only places outside of Italy we have had dinner that even begins to approximate what it’s like to dine in the country.

We didn’t have a single bad dish while we were there, but can heartily recommend the veal (specifically the vitello ai quattro formaggi) and the pappardelle panna e prosciutto.

The Bell in Hand Tavern

45 union st, boston, ma 02108, usa.

As the oldest tavern in the USA, Bell in Hand has been pouring ale since 1795.

While in some cases that might make a restaurant likely to lean on gimmick and mediocre food, Bell in Hand Tavern is not one of those places. The atmosphere is great (if packed during rush hour due to its location along the Freedom Trail), the food is solid, and the burgers are excellent.

Kate Storm | Our Escape Clause

Fairfield, Connecticut

Fairfield, Connecticut, just an hour outside of NYC, has a great food scene that continues to improve. Here are my 3 favorite spots:

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bk–SlEBg9v/

Hub and Spoke

3001 fairfield ave, bridgeport, ct 06605.

The vibe in this place seems pretty hipster, yet when we went, there was a nice mix of families too. It is located in the Black Rock area, which has turned into a nice foodie area. This restaurant promotes itself as an American tapas place. They make their own sausages, burrata and their handcrafted cocktails are delicious.

The best dish to order was the pulled pork arepas with pickled relish. It came as an order of three, and it was perfect to share with others. The crispiness of the arepa at the bottom, paired with the pulled pork, and then complemented by the relish on top was simply amazing!

Plan B Burger Bar

1262 post rd, fairfield, ct 06824.

Although this is a chain restaurant, they do not skimp on quality. Their menu is extensive, and each item I tried was delicious! They clearly promote their burgers, bourbon, and beer. Plan B has a wide selection of craft beer and liquor too. If I had to choose my favorite menu item, it would definitely be their mini cheeseburgers with parmesan fries. It is technically an appetizer but is large enough as a meal for one person.

The best way to describe these burgers is succulent. They were so simple…nothing but bread, burger, and cheese, yet it had so much flavor packed inside. The parmesan fries were crispy and paired well with the 3 little burgers. I will be back to try more items in the near future and see if they can beat the mini cheeseburgers.

Frank Pepe Pizza

238 commerce dr, fairfield, ct 06825.

The Fairfield version of the famous 1925 New Haven Frank Pepe pizza makes my list because it is just as delicious as the original, and there is rarely a wait. Although I can only claim to have tried their cheese and pepperoni, I would have to say that simple is best. Their pizza has the perfect amount of chew and char. It was not too saucy nor cheesy either.

Simplicity is the name of the game here. The only items they serve are pizzas and salads. They also have Foxon Park sodas (which has been a family owned Connecticut business for over 80 years) to pair with their food. This is soon to become my favorite pizza joint!

Margie DQ | DQ Family Travel

Omaha, Nebraska

Not many people think of Omaha, Nebraska as a foodie’s paradise, but when you get to the Big-O, you’d be shocked at our amazing food scene. But regardless of farmer’s markets, farm to tables and local shops there is one thing that Omaha has long been known for – “Omaha Steaks” – and for good reason! Here is this born and raised Omahan’s favorite steak houses in the heart of America.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BmjQJRLHeNw/

Johnny’s Cafe Steakhouse

4702 s 27th st, omaha, ne 68107.

Nearing 100 years old (96 to be exact), Johnny’s is Omaha’s oldest and probably favorite original, authentic steakhouse. No frills, just good meat!

Gorat’s Steakhouse

4917 center st, omaha, ne 68106.

Another legendary spot dating back to 1944, Gorat’s is still a local favorite. Just name a cut of meat and they’ve got it, ready to be grilled to absolute perfection.

2121 S 73rd St, Omaha, NE 68124

While the Drover is just an all around great “American” style restaurant (think burgers, soups, salads, etc) it is still their steak that keeps it an Omaha top pick.  In fact, it’s their famous steaks that are marinated in whiskey that keeps locals coming back for more! Can you say YUM?

LeAnna Brown | Well Traveled Nebraskan

Chapel Hill, North Carolina

https://www.instagram.com/p/BgHuuoqlX4G/

Top of the Hill

505c west franklin street, chapel hill, nc 27516.

Top of the Hill is located in the heart of a college town, and is well known for its Trivia night (Wednesdays – 9pm) and DJ Nights (Thursdays and Saturdays – 11pm), as well as their drinks specials for those student budgets! My favourite is their Buttermilk Fried Chicken! This dish is generously served with creamy mushroom gravy, mashed potatoes and a buttermilk biscuit.

Mediterranean Deli and Bakery

410 w franklin st, chapel hill, nc, 27517.

Mediterranean Deli and Bakery also includes a mini market providing fresh ingredients to the public. Their Panini Wraps and Gyros are popular amongst locals however; I thoroughly enjoy the Lamb Fatayer which consists of ground lamb with onions, tomatoes and spices in a boat-shaped piece of dough topped with feta and mozzarella! The Burma (wheat dough with honey and pistachios) are awesome too!

Merritt’s Grill

1009 s columbia st, chapel hill, nc, 27514.

Renowned for their BLTs, Merritt’s doesn’t disappoint with other All-American sandwiches too! Definitely give their BLTs a try as well as my favourite, the Cajun Chicken Sandwich with pimento cheese and avocado on sourdough! Merritt’s has been around since 1929 and has a very laid-back vibe indoors and in their alfresco dining area.

https://www.instagram.com/p/8JiB7QSWX9/

504 W Franklin St, Chapel Hill, NC 27516

Mint offers Indian cuisine with many Punjabi dishes. The restaurant has a warm ambience and features Indian inspired décor. The food is sublime and I recommend the following dishes – Shrimp Tikka, Chicken Korma, Gobi Tawa Masala and Lamb Rogan Josh. These dishes are spiced well with fresh ingredients. A must try is their Mago Lassi (beverage). Another great thing about Mint, is Sunday brunch offering a variety of dishes – vegetarian and non-vegetarian accompanied by mimosas!

Las Vegas, Nevada

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bmt0nOMhyLV/

Gordon Ramsay Burger

3667 s las vegas blvd, las vegas, nv 89109.

The very first place we decided to go to, of course, was Gordon Ramsay Burger . I mean…it’s Gordon Ramsay, you can’t say no to the guy!  Just as expected, he didn’t disappoint. While the burgers are a bit pricey (but that wasn’t a surprise), we found them delicious. Once you get there, even if they are full, you can leave your name and your cellphone number, go for a walk to explore Las Vegas, and when your table is ready you’ll get a nice text informing you that it’s time to let Gordon fill your belly. Our favorite burger was the Hells’ Kitchen Burger: hubby also appreciated their beer selection.

3600 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109

Another pricey option is Le Cirque , located inside the Bellagio Hotel and Casino. We decided to go there for my birthday, and fell in love with the place. If you don’t know where to start and would like to eat a bit of everything, you can go for the dinner tasting menu. It felt almost like a sensorial experience, from the first course to the last one. While I’m not a great fan of wine, here it was amazing, because each glass was specifically combined with a great dish. An unforgettable experience!

https://www.instagram.com/p/BSY694hhcUg/

5693 S Jones Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89118

For your everyday foodie breakfast, you can head over to Mr. Mamas , a great family friendly diner where we had the best pancakes ever, at a tiny price. The place was very clean so we have returned often, to enjoy some more of their homemade American breakfast, served until 3pm. ..did I mention that their pancakes are amazing?

Danila Caputo | Travelling Dany

Sacramento, California

Sacramento is not only California’s capital, it’s full of great eateries, great coffee and craft beer. You’ll find it’s less expensive than San Francisco but still has a good art and music scene. It’s a must-visit on any California roadtrip!

Dad’s Sandwiches

1310 s st (at 13th st), sacramento, ca 95811.

For giant deli sandwiches, this place is my all-time favourite in the state! Try the popular Hot Blonde (a chicken, avocado and swiss affair) or my favourite, Blue Collar Dream (stuffed with tri-tip!). They also have salads and yummy vegan options.

2005 11th St, Sacramento, CA 95818

Get the fried chicken. This place is known for their fried chicken which people will queue out the door for. They offer a range of Southern fare from gumbo, jambalaya, po’ boys and my favourite, the fried catfish.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BfPa9a6Aowa/

1801 L Street #40, Sacramento, CA 95811

This “cheese-centric” bar has artisanal cheeses for days and delicious wines and beers to match. Their menu of grilled cheeses and mac ‘n cheeses are all amazing but you can’t go wrong with Not Your Mom’s Mac with added pancetta!

Bacon & Butter

5913 broadway, sacramento, ca 95820.

I had to add this one because they do great coffee and I’m addicted to their breakfast burrito which is a must-have breakfast when you’re in the Golden State. I highly recommend checking them out for brunch, they also have a grilled cheese benedict!

Sara Marshall | BeyondCruise

New York, New York

https://www.instagram.com/p/BiVEKLuHLQH/

Taverna Kyclades

3307 ditmars blvd, astoria, queens, 11105.

Some of the best Greek food in NYC. I go here every time my family is in town. There is usually a wait, but it goes fast and this place is so worth it. On longer waits, they’ll give you a glass of wine for free.

What to order: Peasant Salad, Fried Whiting, and Greek Dips Platter

Nacho Macho Taco

417 prospect pl, brooklyn, ny, 11238.

I’ve been here a couple times with friends after a sweaty day in Prospect Park. It’s quick, it’s cheap and dayumm it is good.

What to order: Grilled Chicken Burrito

Queens Comfort

3618 30th avenue, astoria, queens, ny 11103.

Go during brunch. Eggs benedict is a NYC staple for brunch and these guys do all types. They have homemade donuts that are off the hook. The food will make you feel like you’re about to have a heart attack and die happy; the ultimate in comfort food.

What to order: Anything with Eggs Benedict

https://www.instagram.com/p/BmQ21LpgOlk/

Great NY Noodle Town

28 bowery (at bayard st.), new york, ny 10013.

These guys are no frills: cash only. It’s a cheap, delicious soiree into some seriously delicious Chinese food in the heart of Chinatown. I go here every time I’m downtown because I can’t help myself.

What to order: Pork Noodle Soup

Natalie Allen | A Pair of Travel Pants

Durango, Colorado

With the most restaurants per capita, Durango, Colorado is a magical location for any foodie adventurer. This small, historical town situated in the southwest corner of the state features everything that is loved by Colorado travelers: mountains, rivers, breweries, craft cocktails, and restaurants with only the best of local and sustainable ingredients. When visiting Durango, Colorado, make sure to visit the following restaurants:

https://www.instagram.com/p/BmbEXa2nTAl/

GrassBurger

726 ½ main ave, durango co.

For a more casual affair, Grassburger offers the healthiest and tastiest burgers in town. Expect ingredients that are locally sourced, a menu with details transparent to every consumer, and an environment that’s as warm as their sweet potato fries.

What to order: Chedda’ Burger with Avocado and a side of sweet potato fries

The Ore House

147 east college drive, durango co.

Step back into the past at The Ore House, the oldest restaurant in Durango.  The Ore House is a steak and seafood restaurant whose walls and décor still jive to the ragtime beat of its past while its menu integrates modern day trends like craft cocktails and eco-friendly plates.

What to order: New York Strip Dry Aged with a side of lobster tail accompanied by the craft cocktail, Up In Smoke.

Cypr us Café

725 east second ave, durango co.

Mediterranean inspired plates with two of Colorado’s favorites: farm to table ingredients and artisan cocktails.

What to order: Combo Meze. A taste of all things Mediterranean (hummus, baba ganoush, olives, feta cheese, warm pita bread, tzajiki, and spanakopita)

Jennifer Kanikula | The SoFull Traveler

Raleigh, North Carolina

Raleigh is a foodie’s heaven! One of my favorite things about downtown Raleigh, where I live, is everything is within walking distance. And you won’t find any chain restaurants here! Only top chefs doing amazing things with food who source both local and incredibly fresh ingredients they pair in delicious ways.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bi4aQO3gLGm/

Beasley’s Chicken + Honey

237 s wilmington st, raleigh, nc 27601.

One of the most well known chefs in the area is Ashley Christensen, winner of a James Beard Award. She has a few restaurants downtown but my favorite is  Beasley’s Chicken + Honey . This casual eatery has an industrial vibe, awesome bar and great southern options. Go for the macaroni and cheese casserole or grit fries – stay for the Moscow Mules! (The best I’ve ever had! They make their own ginger beer syrup!)

Raleigh Raw

7 w hargett st, raleigh, nc 27601.

I am a huge fan of the poke bowl craze sweeping the nation and  Raleigh Raw  is another favorite. They are big on sustainability and I love that most things they use there are compostable (even their “plastic” cups) and they’re big on natural, unprocessed food. My favorite dish is their poke bowl called Faroe Monch, that I opt for on a bed of sushi rice with yellowtail. It’s a great place to do work on a laptop for a little while and also to get fresh pressed juices.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BfE75PhHkkv/

LucetteGrace

235 south salisbury street | raleigh, nc 27601.

If you’re craving something sweet you must go to  LucetteGrace ! Chef Daniel’s pastries rival any I’ve had in Paris. Everything is made fresh daily and are  very  photo-worthy! My personal favorite is their savory biscuit, “Dixie Cannonball” with a surprise burst of warm gravy in the center. But whether you’re in the mood for a homemade croissant, lemon meringue tart, or simply a French macaron you should definitely stop in for a look at what’s in their seasonal rotation and treat yourself!

Mikkel | Sometimes Home

Charlotte, North Carolina

Charlotte has an array of establishments to cater to whatever your foodie interests are. You can find everything from BBQ and burgers to Italian and Vietnamese to pizza joints and food trucks. What if you have dietary restrictions? Glad you asked! More and more restaurants in Charlotte are offering options for patrons with various dietary needs.

Here are some of my favorite places:

https://www.instagram.com/p/BmoQ-LogHD_/

Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar

1626 east blvd. charlotte, nc 28203.

Charlotte has a great selection of burger joints. One of my favorites has a plethora of fancy burgers such as the Sam I Am Burger, which includes an over easy egg, rosemary ham, and American cheese. Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar has twenty locations throughout the Carolinas. There is also a location in Colorado. The original location is in the trendy Dilworth neighborhood.

If you have dietary restrictions, be sure to ask for their gluten-free menu. This menu has a variety of options including starters and salads. You can create your own burger to meet your dietary needs. Bad Daddy’s offers gluten-free buns; let’s be real, some gluten-free buns are gross. Not these. They have really yummy buns.

Midwood Smokehouse 

1401 central ave. charlotte, nc 28205.

BBQ is serious business in the South (yes, I know it is in the Midwest as well). Depending on where you’re from in the Carolinas, you might prefer a tomato, vinegar, or mustard base. While you have several BBQ options in Charlotte, Midwood Smokehouse is my favorite. There are four locations in North Carolina and one in South Carolina. The original location is in the popular Plaza-Midwood area of Charlotte.

You may not think that BBQ is good for people with dietary restrictions, however Midwood Smokehouse does have options. While they don’t have a separate menu, your waiter can tell you what is gluten-free and even soy-free options. If you can’t have soy, please note that soybean oil is used in the fryer and for the ribs.

One of the unique dishes on Midwood Smokehouse’s menu is Burnt Ends. It’s cooked in a Cheerwine sauce. If you’re not familiar, Cheerwine is a popular soft drink that started in North Carolina. The salad with cucumbers makes a good side.

Fun fact: President Obama and Hilary Clinton have both visited the original location of Midwood Smokehouse when the latter was here campaigning in 2016. Luke Bryan was in town recently and had a crew member come pick up a huge order for the singer and his crew.

Brixx Pizza

1801 scott ave. charlotte, nc 28203.

Who doesn’t love pizza? Pizza has always been one of my favorite foods. While delivery pizza can be good, restaurant style pizza is even better. If you have dietary restrictions, you may think you’re limited to what you can find in the freezer aisle or pizza that you make yourself.

More and more pizza places are offering gluten-free crust. Some even go far enough to offer dairy-free cheese too. Some of the restaurants offer a thin crust. Brixx Pizza has a very thick crust and it’s delicious! Pepperoni and cheese may be the regular old standby, but Brixx’s is very good. All of Brixx’s pizza are wood fired.

Note: There is a $3 upcharge for a gluten-free crust. However, if you download the Brixx Pizza app, they occasionally have coupons that waives the fee.

Brixx Pizza started in Charlotte and now has 30 locations across the Southeast.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BMxgkhCB1if/

The Burger Company

1500 w morehead st. charlotte, nc 28208.

As I previously mentioned, there are a lot of burger joints in Charlotte. The Burger Company has options like the Pretzel Burger and the Rise ’N Shine Burger. However, they also have a really good chicken sandwich. They also have a good gluten-free bun. Another bonus is the delicious tater tots, which are not cooked in soy.

There are seven locations, mostly in Charlotte. You can find locations in Greenville, SC and Smithtown, NY. For some unknown reason (it’s not on their website), the other locations are called American Burger Company. One of the things that make these restaurants are so cool is that they are green. The countertops are made from recycled flooring and the flooring is made of bamboo. They even recycle their frying oil into biodiesel fuel.

Samantha Schipman | Gluten-Free Spirited

Bonus addition!

Oahu, hawaii.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BYwHqT2DEIL/

Leonard’s Bakery

933 kapahulu ave, honolulu, hi 96816.

Leonard’s Bakery is an institution in Oahu and people flock from around the globe to wait in long lines for their Portuguese malasadas that come out piping hot with options for fillings like custard and guava AND you can get them coated in sugar and/or cinnamon! If this is the only place you stop on the island – it will be worth your time!

https://www.instagram.com/p/BYnw-gij56w/

Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck

66-472 kamehameha hwy, haleiwa, hi 96712.

There are many people trying to replicate Giovanni’s (even by name) but there is only one! Bring your hand wipes and sanitizer because this buttery garlic shrimp is as messy as it is delicious (and there are no washing facilities in the immediate area). This is food truck dining at its best.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BmvIUGABL8I/

Dole Plantation

64-1550 kamehameha hwy, wahiawa, hi 96786.

The Dole Plantation is where pineapples and other fruits are grown. It is free to enter (some activities cost money) but the real reason to go there is for their coveted dole whip!

675 Auahi St Honolulu, HI 96813

Calling all Instagrammers! For the perfect palm tree coated cappuccino and avocado toast, look no further.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BmcfKp5A_3t/

Island Vintage Shave Ice

2233 kalakaua ave, honolulu, hi 96815.

Easily one of the best cold treats in Hawaii. You can pick all your own toppings (and the options are plentiful) or pick a shave ice that has already been curated with delicious flavors.

Thanks again to all the food lovers who contributed their favorites to this USA foodie bucket list!

• 20 Cheap Places to Eat in New York City
• 30 Instagram Worthy Desserts In New York City
• Most Instagrammable Places In London To Eat
• Top 10 Favorite Food Spots in NYC
• The Ultimate USA Travel Bucket List

What are some of your favorite foodie cities in the United States? Have you ever taken a trip somewhere just to eat the local food? Tell us in the comments!

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19 thoughts on “The Ultimate USA Bucket List For Foodies: 44 Must-Try Spots”

This is such an exhaustive food list! Love it!

Wow so many foodie places and they all look so diverse! Any advice on the best vegan foodie cities in the States?

I need to write a full extensive post on this (soon!) but off the top of my head, I’d say that NY, CA, OR, WA, HI have some of the best plentiful vegan options – I know those are states, not cities, but I promise to change that soon as I’m transitioning to a more plant-based diet myself!

Wow. I’m drooling going through all of these pictures. This is such an extensive post. Totally loved it! Well done!

This is an incredible list! Will travel for awesome meals so I’ll be referencing this on my next US road trip for sure 🙂

Ok now I am super hungry! All of this looks so so good!!

I was getting worried scrolling through that you missed my favorite foodie town – Portland! You found some of my favorites too. Fab collection and now I’m hungry! Cheers from this Oregon Girl in Copenhagen.

Couldn’t forget Portland! 🙂

OMG great picks for Denver!! But you can’t have a food list for Denver without Denver Biscuit Company. The best.

Ooh, thanks for the tip! Can’t ever forget a good biscuit!

WOW!!!!!! this is the best list I’ve seen online for foodies hahaha my mouth was watering the whole way!!! the steakhouse was my top favourite <3 thanks for writing this, I'll keep it handy for my next USA trip 🙂

Yay! Thanks Tania! 🙂

Wow this a stunning whopper of a post! As a Hawaii local, I scrolled through your recommendations for Waikiki and Oahu, and I definitely approve!! Now I just need to visit all of the other foodie destinations on this list lol.

Awesome, love hearing that Sarah! I definitely need to visit more of them too 🙂

As soon as I saw your post title, I was like “YES please!” – I am such a foodie, I will travel for any and all kinds of food 😀 I do love American food, as it’s not just about burgers and fries, various regions have such a great mix of ethnic food and fusion food as well! I am particularly a fan of southern food 🙂 love anything cajun!

Wow, what a collaboration—favorite dining spots from so many cities. The Carolinas and the Hawaiian islands have been on my travel wish list for a long time, so I especially hope to try those recommendations someday. And those radishes! They’re easy to grow, but I don’t usually find them that culinarily inspiring. The radish photo in this post makes me want to get some at the farmers market tomorrow, and plant some again too. Thanks for the inspiration!

I agree – those radishes are absolutely beautiful and inspiring, right? Hope you make something yummy – let me know what you end up creating 🙂

This is so cool! Do you have a similar post separated by region?

Not yet, but I’ve thought about doing those too! Maybe I should!

Comments are closed.

11 Restaurants Worth Planning a Trip Around

Eat your heart out: afar staffers dish on their favorite meals that lived up to the hype..

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Inspired by the spirit of Noma’s foraging ethos, the Willows Inn on Lummi Island is an ode to the flavors of the Pacific Northwest.

Photo by Charity Burggraaf

Eat to live or live to eat? The answer is clear for many AFAR staffers: There is no flight too long nor hike too arduous when it comes to indulging in remarkable meals. Some experiences are so phenomenal that they become the stuff of legend, but these restaurants somehow surpassed our already lofty expectations. Here are the restaurants we’ve personally vetted as worth the flight.

Photo by Claes Bech-Poulsen

Faroe Islands

When planning my trip to the Faroe Islands, I made a reservation at Koks before I even booked my flight. The two-Michelin-starred restaurant sits about 30 minutes outside the capital city of Tórshavn, in a river valley at the edge of Leynavatn Lake. Arriving there is like walking into a gourmet fairy tale. After parking, you’re escorted to the restaurant’s own hajllur (a small, slated storehouse used for fermenting), where you’re treated to traditional snacks and beer. Then, you pile into a Jeep for the short drive through the valley to the restaurant, which is housed in a traditional Faroese building with a grass roof. The entire staff greets you at the door and leads you to your seat for a parade of 18 beautiful dishes made with local ingredients like scallops, crab, and bacalao. Some were more delicious than others—try as I might, fermented lamb is not for me—but each captured something essential about the surrounding landscape, summarizing my entire trip in a single meal. – Natalie Beauregard, guides editor

Kyani & Co.

Mumbai, india.

In London, a restaurant called Dishoom pays homage to the Irani cafés that once dotted Mumbai. Enchanted by the place’s meticulous decor and frothy chai, I became determined to see the real thing. There are very few left of the hundreds of Parsi cafés that thrived in the 1900s, and Kyani & Co. is one of the oldest. Far more boisterous and cramped than Dishoom, Kyani was exactly the experience I’d hoped for, with tile-work floors and wooden chairs that date back to 1904, hearty eggs laced with onions and chili, and that frothy chai served in a sturdy, stout glass. –Maggie Fuller, associate editor

The Willows Inn on Lummi Island

San juan islands, washington.

It takes some doing to get to the Willows Inn on Lummi Island, a restaurant with guest rooms tucked away in the San Juan Islands of Washington State. But the extra trek is part of the adventure as visitors head to the source of the flavors they’re about to experience. From Bellingham, take the seven-minute ferry ride to tiny Lummi Island. Chef and Washington native Blaine Wetzel, who trained at the world-famous, foraging-driven Noma restaurant in Copenhagen, moved back home in 2010 to run the Willows Inn’s restaurant when he was just 25. Inspired by the spirit of Noma’s foraging ethos, the Willows Inn is an ode to the flavors of the Pacific Northwest, where I spent my childhood summers: In a candlelit, wood-ceilinged dining room, he serves inventive preparations of smoked sockeye salmon, geoduck skewers, and rockfish with poblano peppers. –Jennifer Flowers, deputy editor

L’As du Fallafel

Paris, france.

The best falafel in the world is served at L’As du Fallafel in Paris, and I regularly think about booking a spontaneous weekend trip just to eat it again. Extra-crispy on the outside, warm and gooey on the inside, and packed with countless spices, each bite of falafel made me want to cry into my pita. I actually did cry when I tried to go back on a Saturday, the only day they’re closed (for Shabbat). –Ciera Velarde, newsletter engagement editor

Courtesy of Galit

Chicago, Illinois

I entered Galit expecting a great meal; I left trying to figure out how we could wrangle a second tour of Chef Zach Engel’s leveled-up take on Israeli classics before leaving Chicago. The space isn’t overly fancy or pretentious—it’s tasteful and bright and energizing, all qualities mirrored in the food. You can’t go wrong, whether you order from the tasting menu (officially monikered the “Other Menu”) or an à la carte option. Whichever adventure you choose, make sure it includes the salatim , a collection of dips and small dishes served with pita (baked on-site, of course). I’ve long abhorred cipollini onions, but I couldn’t stop eating the ones Engel put in front of me, paired with coriander and feta. I couldn’t stop eating, period. The fluffy pita, the hummus strewn with smoky brisket, the fried halloumi married with corn and blueberries, the crispy-skinned, harissa-happy chicken thigh . . . it is not an exaggeration to say I rolled out of there. But not before finding room for a pistachio semifreddo (gently accented by roasted peaches) and a glass of arak, served per tradition with a side of ice and water. –Aislyn Greene, senior editor

Mercado de Mariscos

Panama city, panama.

I didn’t like fish until I visited the Mercado de Mariscos. But Panama City’s fish is as much a tourist attraction as a restaurant, and I figured, when in Panama . . . After 20 minutes of wandering around the market, marveling at the piles of silvery fish and weird-looking sea creatures, I finally plucked up the courage to try some fresh-as-it-comes ceviche, ladled from a large vat into a Styrofoam cup at one of the stalls. ¡Que rico! The taste was lime-y, just the right amount of briny, and not fishy at all. And it was legitimately life-changing: I’ve been a seafood lover ever since. Be aware, fine dining this is not. It’s not even a restaurant really, more just a cluster of flimsy tables and plastic chairs over to one side of the enclosed seafood market. The space is loud and, at times, crowded, and it smells like fish and the nearby ocean. But for ceviche aficionados and people-watchers, it’s entirely worth a trip to Panama. – Maggie Fuller, associate editor

Photo by Ricardo D’Angelo

São Paulo, Brazil

Chef Alex Atala cares so deeply about the Brazilian Amazon that he has dedicated his life to getting others to fall in love with it, too. His inventive tasting menus at D.O.M. in São Paulo are an homage to Amazonian ingredients, which he goes to great lengths to source both sustainably and in a way that benefits the communities that live off the rain forest. He was also a pioneer when he elevated pre-colonialist ingredients in his spare, wood-floored dining room. He treated cassava root like mille-feuille, showcased the delicate perfume of the indigenous priprioca root in ice cream form, and turned pupuna hearts of palm into a nutty, slightly crunchy version of fettuccine. –Jennifer Flowers, deputy editor

The French Laundry

Napa valley, california.

As a kid, I grew up eating Thomas Keller’s famed roast chicken recipe, which my father cooked often for family dinner. As an adult who loves food, the idea of a meal at Chef Keller’s Yountville restaurant the French Laundry, with its long-standing reputation, was more alluring than the chicken at home (though a lot further out of reach). What would it be like to dine at a three-Michelin-starred restaurant, anyway?

So a few years ago when my best friend and her husband nabbed reservations through his work (which would be covering the whole meal), I was stoked. That evening, we ate our way through the eight-course tasting menu. Ironically, I don’t remember any of the specific dishes we had except the chocolates, which were like colorful little planets so beautiful I almost didn’t want to eat them. What I remember is this: Everything was delicious and decadent. I tasted new flavors and ingredients; our plates emerged and disappeared like magic. At the end of the night, they sent us home with shortbread cookies in a little French Laundry tin, which I use now to hold jewelry, a nice memento of probably the best (and fanciest) meal of my life. –Sara Button, assistant editor

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Photo by Culinary Backstreets

La Cova Fumada

Barcelona, spain.

My mom was less than thrilled when I told her we needed to set our alarms for breakfast on the other side of town. A friend had told me that we absolutely must eat at La Cova Fumada while in Barcelona, even if it meant waiting for an hour or more. I hate needless waiting—just like my mom—so we set out for 10 a.m. tapas in an attempt to beat the lunch crowds. The walk took us through meandering residential streets and landed us at a battered doorway with no sign. I hoped my foodie friend hadn’t steered us wrong as the host wove through the packed space to seat us at a four-top with a couple who were halfway through their meal.

All our apprehensions dissipated after the first bite of toast slathered in garlic butter. We could have sat there all day eating pan-fried artichokes, delicate sardines drizzled with olive oil and lemon juice, mammoth prawns with a side of chorizo, and literally anything else our server recommended. Our tablemates (who were visiting from Florida, it turned out) suggested the “bomba,” which was a surprisingly airy ball of deep-fried mashed potatoes encasing a chorizo core. We ordered two. –Nicole Antonio, managing editor

Tokyo, Japan

When I’m dining in Tokyo on Japanese kaiseki ryori cuisine—formal, multicourse tasting menus—I expect the air of formality that normally accompanies them. All those notions went out the window as soon as I stepped through the threshold of the informal 20-seat dining room at Den. In the hands of Chef Zaiyu Hasegawa, I got a taste of his whimsical approach to fine dining. A Japanese wafer called monaka gets a French twist with foie gras instead of the traditional red beans, while in salads, carrots shaped like emojis smile back at you. The restaurant has since moved from its original two-story location in Jinbocho to Shibuya, but I have no doubt that the warm hospitality and fun-loving spirit of Den remains the same. –Jennifer Flowers, deputy editor

Courtesy of Luke’s Kitchen

Luke’s Kitchen

Kuaotunu, new zealand.

The day before a friend’s wedding in Whitianga on New Zealand’s Coromandel Peninsula, the bride took me 20 minutes up the winding, overgrown coast to Luke’s Kitchen. The owner and chef, she explained, ditched a life at big-name restaurants to open this out-of-the-way, wood-fired pizza spot by the beach. The pies were the most flavorful I’ve ever had—from the classics to creative combinations with local toppings like BBQ jackfruit and watercress pesto. Better still, Luke’s serves a gluten-free crust that tasted way too good to be true. (It was true.) I could have stayed for days at that laid-back, beachy restaurant (and the adjacent art-gallery-slash-coffee-shop). I even went back after the wedding and have been plotting my return ever since. –Maggie Fuller, associate editor

Dempsey Hill, formerly a nutmeg plantation, feels worlds away from the bustle and lights of Orchard Road. Inside Candlenut, even more of that sense of otherworldliness awaits, thanks to the decor (spare but sleek, with bamboo lampshades and a painted floor) and the dishes (traditional with a contemporary twist). The first and only Michelin-starred Peranakan restaurant in the world, Candlenut celebrates a culture in danger of dying, and Chef Malcolm Lee’s reverence for the cuisines of his childhood comes across loud and clear: Standouts are the crispy ngoh hiang bean curd wrapped around minced pork, prawns, and water chestnut; and a thick pong teh stew with pork cheek, fermented soybean paste, and red and green chili. My favorite, though, is the silky blue swimmer crab curry, a dish with notes of galangal, turmeric, and kaffir lime leaf that deepen in flavor, scoop after scoop. –Katherine LaGrave, digital features editor

Portland, Maine

Four words: Brown. Butter. Lobster. Roll. One bite and my posture softened—I would have gone weak in the knees if my friends and I weren’t sitting. After the second bite, my boyfriend asked if I was going to cry. I closed my eyes, silently shooing him away. The steamed bun was reminiscent of Chinese bao : tender and springy but a tiny bit more savory to complement the richness of fresh Maine lobster drenched in browned butter. I’ve never felt worse about enjoying food than I did devouring that lobster roll in front of a friend who was nibbling at the gluten-free, dairy-free version. Good for Eventide to offer an allergen-friendly version of the dish, but truly, the signature preparation is the only way to go. —Nicole Antonio, managing editor

>>Next: Not Your Average Gas Station Food: 7 Amazing Restaurants in Former Fuel Stops

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• World's Best

These Are the Best Food Cities in the World

In these cities, to travel is to eat, and eat well.

This year's World's Best Awards survey closed on March 2, just before widespread stay-at-home orders were implemented as a result of COVID-19. The results reflect our readers' experiences before the pandemic, but we hope that this year's honorees will inspire your trips to come — whenever they may be.

Traveling foodies are insatiable — trust us, we know. To us, to travel is to eat, and eat well. If the ideal trip to you involves more eating than sightseeing or if you find yourself booking reservations at restaurants before anything else, then this list of Travel + Leisure reader-voted destinations is for you.

Our readers ranked these 25 locales as the top foodie destinations of the year. From the birthplace of mezcal to the cities with the most Michelin-starred restaurants and chefs, these are the best places to visit with an appetite.

Many of the cities on this list are within the same country or region, so allow this list to guide you through your very own foodie tour. From Japan's Kyoto, Tokyo, and Osaka to Mexico's Mexico City and San Miguel de Allende and, of course, France's Lyon, Paris, and Aix-en-Provence, you can head in any direction and find the start and finish of your dream foodie crawl.

Alternatively, dedicate all your time to unpacking the dishes and culture of some incredible locations like Mendoza in Argentina's wine country or Beirut, Lebanon's capital city, where the produce is as exceptional as the appreciation for the experience of food.

Even the gastronomical capitals of the world, like Paris, have moved down our list to make room for America's very own New Orleans and Charleston.

Let your curiosity rather than your established palate lead you on your next trip. Forget your favorite foods and, instead, travel with an open mind, knowing the myriad of dishes waiting for you to try them.

Stephanie Pollak/Travel + Leisure

The birthplace of mezcal, Oaxaca comes in first place this year. It's known for the way it marries its culinary traditions (think mole , molotes , and fresh, soulful dishes) with the innovative flavors of modern Mexican cooking.

A consistent winner for food tourists, the capital city of Lebanon draws in culinary talent from all over the world, but it's the traditional dishes crafted by Lebanese chefs themselves who continue to impress year after year.

3. New Orleans

Traditional NOLA dishes have always been outstandingly delicious, but this Southern city continues to impress the palettes of people from all walks of life more and more year after year.

4. San Sebastián

Donostia to the Basques, or San Sebastián, is home to some of the best seafood in the world and a staggering number of Michelin stars per square meter. Pintxos are the local style of tapas and, while traditionally delicious, serve as a canvas for some of the city's culinary innovation.

5. Florence

Chelsea Loren/Travel + Leisure

From fettunta , the original garlic bread, to ravioli nudi , or naked ravioli, the food of Florence eventually appears all around the world at some of the most famed restaurants. Why not go to the source?

Gelato, pasta carbonara, and pizza are just the start — the abundance of culinary hotspots and traditional restaurants led by generations of the same family give the city's nickname "Eternal City" a double meaning.

There may be no better place to restaurant hop and make entire days of eating than Gion, Kyoto — a waterfront neighborhood with slender streets full of almost exclusively restaurants, high and low.

8. Charleston

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

Charleston's rich food scene stems from its people. Black-owned restaurants paved the way for this Southern city's reputation for amazing American soul food.

You could probably eat at a new restaurant in Tokyo every hour for the rest of your life and not hit every great one. While you may not visit this Japanese city exclusively to eat (there's too much else to see and do), visiting the themed, renowned, and hidden restaurants should definitely be on the agenda.

10. San Miguel de Allende

One of Mexico's more cosmopolitan cities, San Miguel de Allende has become home to some of the country's most talented and innovative chefs. But the local, traditional dishes that have always been there still reign supreme.

11. Singapore

The stalls of the many hawker centers across Singapore make the food culture what it is in this diverse country. Each market stall usually specializes in one dish that's been perfected over generations.

It wouldn't be a list of the best foodie destinations without this legendary locale. From croissants to steak frites, Paris is a culture and fashion-loving foodie's dream.

13. New York City

So many people living in New York City are originally from somewhere else, and they've brought their dishes with them...as well as the creativity and ingenuity that make the NYC food scene so vibrant.

A city you could eat in for the next 100 years without getting tired, Lyon serves French classics and fresh, modern dishes without the waiting list and price tag of Paris.

15. Bologna

Dubbed Italy's culinary city, Bologna has a way of life that almost revolves around its food. And with ingredients as quality as the cars that hail from this region, why wouldn't it?

16. Chiang Mai

This city in Northern Thailand has some of the most renowned street food in the world. Quick and casual, the culture around eating here doesn't accept shortcuts, no matter how fast the food is.

17. Mexico City

As the chefs of Mexico City combine global and national flavors more and more, this Mexican locale has become a major draw for foodies from around the world.

18. Aix-en-Provence

Traditional, "home-cooked" French cuisine is the way of this university city in the Alpes-Côte d'Azur region of France, so while the glossier spots are deservingly popular, the hidden, side-street establishments are just as deserving of praise.

19. Chicago

When it comes to American staples, Chicagoans know how to do it up right (and greasy). But fine dining has more than settled in this Midwestern city and delivered its own approach to the concept — think warm hospitality meets culinary luxury.

20. Bangkok

Another legendary Thai street food destination, Bangkok's confidence bleeds into its culinary atmosphere. If you're from the West, you're likely to have something you've never tried before — and it's likely to be amazing.

21. Barcelona

Eating and drinking go together all night long in Barcelona. Tapas keep you energized during nights out dancing and drinking, but they are also rooted in tradition and encourage a deeper enjoyment of each and every item you eat.

22. Mendoza

This Argentinian wine country, home to some of the world's best malbecs, has claimed its own corner of the gastronomic and foodie travel scene with its unreal cuts of meat and fresh, unique produce.

The takoyaki , okonomiyaki , and izakayas of Osaka, or the "Nation's Kitchen," are calling. And lucky for us, the latter doesn't close until late.

24. Hong Kong

Another vast city full of more culinary adventures than one could experience in a lifetime, and dim sum is only where the list begins.

Rory Fuller/Travel + Leisure

Wine and tapas are a way of life in this Spanish city. Don't leave without trying paella , but that better not be the only thing you eat ( cocido madrileño, oreja a la plancha , and more await).

See all of our readers' favorite hotels, cities, airlines, cruise lines, and more in the World's Best Awards for 2020 .

Related Articles

Will fly for food: OpenTable and Kayak say these 25 restaurants are worth traveling for

"First we eat, then we do everything else," M.F.K. Fisher, the American food writer, once said. 

If that's the natural order of things, then food is worth planning your travel itinerary around –  that is, if it's not the entire reason for jet-setting itself. And Kayak and OpenTable have found evidence that people are doing just that.

On Tuesday, the food and travel sites released a joint list: 25 hidden-gem restaurants  around the world. All of which, are "worth flying for," they claimed in a release.

Both Kayak and OpenTable want to help people experience the world, Caroline Potter, OpenTable's chief dining officer, tells USA TODAY. Dining, she says, seemed like a very logical "meeting of the minds."

The team at OpenTable had heard anecdotal evidence about people who make their restaurant reservations before booking a flight or hotel.

Learn more: Best travel insurance

"Food has become such a bigger part of the culture for everyone, we're a nation – or a world – of foodies," says Potter. "I think food is a universal way for people to get into culture, even if you don't speak the language."

The two companies wanted to create a guide that could give foodie travelers all the best tips in one place. 

The list was pulled together from user reviews collected by OpenTable between July 1, 2018 and June 30, 2019. And the cities included were pulled from Kayak's list of top 50 most popular destinations around the globe between July 1, 2019 through December 31, 2019. 

OpenTable also conducted a two-question survey between June 19 and June 24. They asked users whether or not they had ever "flown for food."

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They found that 1 in 5 Americans plan getaways around how good the food is expected to be. And in a separate survey administered by YouGov, Kayak found that 73% of Americans choose local restaurants over a high end restaurant while on a trip. 

Kayak's study also found that:

• 44% of Americans would book a ticket on a plane, bus or train for a particular restaurant.
• 61% of Americans would travel for an hour or longer to dine at a "wish list" restaurant.
• 62%  of Americans prefer to eat local cuisine over food they are familiar with, while traveling.

The restaurants deemed flight-worthy span the globe, ranging from New York to Barcelona to Dubai to Toronto to Mexico City to Sydney. 

While the eateries needed to be tagged as "neighborhood gems" by verified OpenTable users who reviewed the restaurants after eating there, Potter says the only common denominator is that the restaurants are all popular with locals.

Aside from that, they all feature different price points, different cuisines and different cultures. 

"They're not big, bucket-list, once-in-a-lifetime restaurants," Potter notes. Instead, these are "the places to go to get a good flavor of where locals go, to get what the vibe is." 

The full list, presented in alphabetical order:

• 12th Avenue Grill (Honolulu, Hawaii)
• Alux Restaurant (Cancun, Mexico)
• Battista’s Hole in the Wall (Las Vegas)
• Bistro Campagne  (Chicago)
• Cafe Luxembourg (New York)
• CRUST (Miami)
• Frances  (San Francisco)
• Gilda by Belgious (Barcelona, Spain)
• Mamma Maria’s (Boston)  
• Musso & Frank Grill (Los Angeles)
• Nusret Dubai  (Dubai, United Arab Emirates)
• Omonia Taverna & Bar (Frankfurt, Germany)
• Osteria Savio Volpe (Vancouver, British Columbia)
• Paddock & Vine (Sydney)
• Rosetta (Mexico City)
• Schnitzelei Charlottenburg (Berlin)
• Serafina by the Water (Fort Lauderdale, Florida)
• Stella Cocktail Club (Dublin)
• Terroni Queen (Toronto)
• Tatel Madrid (Madrid)
• The Tap Room at Dubsdread (Orlando, Florida)
• Van Speyk  (Amsterdam)
• Westerns Laundry (London)
• Wirtshaus in der Au  (Munich) 
• Kakaiya by the Sea (Tokyo)

When you sit down at a local restaurant, Potter said, there is more opportunity to find out about other local restaurants and delicacies to hit on your trip. Waiters and waitresses and other diners will have suggestions, she said.

There are other ways to immerse yourself in food culture too. Potter recommends visiting food markets (and night markets in some countries), food walking tours or taking a cooking class.

"You'll walk away with a 360-degree view from fine dining to street food," said Potter.

Follow Morgan Hines on Twitter: @MorganEmHines .

Where to Eat

The 25 Best Restaurants in Los Angeles Right Now

Our current favorites in one of the greatest food cities in the world.

The chef Morihiro Onodera at Morihiro. Credit... Rozette Rago for The New York Times

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By Tejal Rao

Tejal Rao is critic at large for The New York Times’s Food section. She lives in Los Angeles.

• Published Sept. 26, 2023 Updated Feb. 22, 2024

In the Where to Eat: 25 Best series, we’re highlighting our favorite restaurants in cities across the United States. These lists will be updated as restaurants close and open, and as we find new gems to recommend. As always, we pay for all of our meals and don’t accept free items.

Anajak Thai

This family-run Thai restaurant in Sherman Oaks has a superpower: shape-shifting. Tuesdays are for Thai-inspired tacos and tostadas, which make sense the second you taste them, or for cheffy, one-off collaborations, while the last weekend of each month means it’s time for Justin Pichetrungsi’s freestyle tasting menu. But what some might consider the ordinary days in between are a joy, too, with dishes like the mouthwatering fish custard haw mok or Southern Thai fried chicken. That’s when the restaurant plays the part of neighborhood gem and you can see all the loving updates that Mr. Pichetrungsi made after he took over from his parents and bulked up the wine program.

14704 Ventura Boulevard, Sherman Oaks ; 818-501-4201; anajakthai.com

Antico Nuovo

Italian country cooking is an endlessly replicated genre in Southern California, but a visit to Chad Colby’s open kitchen and glowing, grown-up dining room is an energizing reminder of how irresistible it can be when handled with focus and skill. Go for the slightly esoteric, perfectly made pastas, like dimpled foglie d’ulivo, perky malloreddus and slippery, thin-skinned plin dell’ alta langa, but don’t let it be at the expense of the olive oil-soaked focaccia, the beans baked with bread over a wood fire or the intensely flavored ice creams.

4653 Beverly Boulevard, Los Angeles ; 323-510-3093; anticonuovo-la.com

The chef Kwang Uh built his reputation at this highly experimental and weirdly affordable gem of a lunch spot, where tubs of fruits and vegetables labeled with blue tape were always fermenting away on the open shelving. The new Baroo, run with his partner and wife, Mina Park, might share a name with its predecessor, but it leaps forward in a beautifully designed dining room with an elegant tasting menu that moves quickly and lightly. Look on the underside of the menu for the names of everyone who labored over the meal: Now it’s not just a couple of cooks on a shoestring budget doing the most with the least, but a whole team at work behind the scenes, paying attention to every detail.

905 E 2nd St #109, Los Angeles ; 213-221-7967; baroolosangeles.com

North African, Middle Eastern

Ori Menashe and Genevieve Gergis built their reputations on rigorous Italian fare at their downtown ace Bestia , but this is the restaurant that showed us what they could really do. Bavel is a roaring, pleasure-driven powerhouse of North African and Middle Eastern cooking, and even dishes that were on its opening menu five years ago, like the laminated strips of malawach with crème fraîche and strawberry zhoug, feel fresh, fundamental and totally uninhibited.

500 Mateo Street No. 102, Los Angeles ; 213-232-4966; baveldtla.com

Jewish, New American

The steaks at Birdie G’s may be impeccable, but some of the restaurant’s most exciting maneuvers are often vegetarian, or almost vegetarian, or entirely vegan. (The chef, Jeremy Fox, did write a cookbook called “On Vegetables,” after all.) The kitchen seems to delight in sneaking cheeky, technical marvels and from-scratch fermentations, pickles and preserves into the most casual of dishes, without drawing too much attention to them. And the kids’ menu, with its matzo margherita pizza and fresh pasta with butter, is one of the most charming in the city, if you’re keeping up with that sort of thing.

2421 Michigan Avenue, Santa Monica ; 310-310-3616; birdiegsla.com

Found Oyster

Seafood, Raw bar

There aren’t many places I’d rather be in the late afternoon when it’s time for a drink and a bite than Found Oyster’s narrow bar, or its cluster of sidewalk seating. The no-reservations policy is only a tiny nuisance — you can wait around with a glass of wine until you’re sitting down happily with some head-on prawns, a crab cocktail and a dozen just-shucked oysters. Considering that seafood is the point here, the bar steak and fries are far better than they ought to be, as is the weekend schnitzel hidden under a big salad draped with white anchovies. And while the restaurant doesn’t make dessert, it’s hard to complain when they sell slices from Nicole Rucker’s pie shop Fat + Flour .

4880 Fountain Avenue, Los Angeles ; 323-486-7920; foundoyster.com

Seafood, Mexican

Bay scallops and chocolate clams from Baja. Line-caught tuna from around the Channel Islands. Spot prawns from Santa Barbara. Gilberto Cetina runs a mariscos stand inside Mercado La Paloma that seems fairly unbuttoned, but don’t be fooled: He’s serving some of the highest quality and most beautifully prepared seafood in Los Angeles. Order these not just in sunny ceviches, cocteles and tostadas, but also grilled, fried, roasted and stewed with stacks of hot tortillas on the side — Fátimah Juárez nixtamalizes and mills the corn in-house. Once you understand the draw of Mr. Cetina’s counter, you’ll want to reserve a seat for the eight-course tasting menu he serves two nights a week.

3655 South Grand Avenue No. C9, Los Angeles ; 213-986-9972; holboxla.com

Wedchayan Arpapornnopparat and Tongkamal Yuon first got my attention during the pandemic with their sai oua, each link of the Northern Thai-style sausage holding more deep and vivid flavor than seemed actually possible, packed for easy pickup and cooking at home. Though their space has grown to include a fuller menu, and tables, the best part of Holy Basil is that it still treats simple kra pow, that habit-forming Bangkok street-style stir-fry seasoned with red chiles and herbs, with all of the care and attention it deserves (and makes the unusual addition of juicy snap peas seem essential). Most of the dishes come with a heap of purple riceberry, dark and pleasingly chewy. Just because you can swap it out for white rice doesn’t mean that you should.

718 South Los Angeles Street, Space A, Los Angeles ; 213-559-4994; holybasildtla.com

Ipoh Kopitiam

The wait outside Kenji Tang’s Malaysian coffee shop starts at the beginning of breakfast service and goes on throughout the day, as locals pop in to chat over cups of white coffee and dark heaps of sticky rice, ripping through layers of roti to scoop up shimmering beef rendang, or sharing kaya toasts stuffed with delightfully thick slices of butter, dripping with homemade, caramel-colored coconut jam. The place isn’t built for lingering — tables are crunched together and someone is always waiting for yours, usually right in view — but it’s hard to resist staying for one more egg tart, or one more cup of frothy milk tea.

1411 South Garfield Avenue No. 104, Alhambra ; 626-703-4198; ipoh-kopitiam.com

Taiwanese American

You don’t have to know Jon Yao’s story to enjoy his restaurant. You could be oblivious to his journey from a scrappy, ambitious Taiwanese-leaning restaurant in a strip mall to this chic, decidedly luxurious space downtown, complete with all the bells and whistles required of a serious, big-budget fine-dining restaurant. You could simply go, sit down for the $275 tasting menu, and let it work its magic — revealing to you, moment by carefully choreographed moment, exactly what this format is capable of and why submitting yourself to it can be such a worthwhile pleasure.

777 South Alameda Street, Building 1, Suite 114, Los Angeles ; 213-797-5770; katorestaurant.com

Lasita bills itself as a Filipino rotisserie and natural-wine bar, but in addition to the beautiful chicken Inasal, marinated in vinegar and calamansi juice, served crisp and practically hairy with the fibers of so many crushed aromatics and spices, there’s a whole menu to fall for here. Swirls of fatty lechon, whole fish, lumpia, pancit and all sorts of stylish and surprising specials that come and go quickly.

727 North Broadway No. 120, Los Angeles ; 213-443-6163; lasita-la.com

One of the many joys of living in Los Angeles is that a quick breakfast around the corner might involve tacos — specifically soft, hot, housemade corn tortillas piled with daikon pickles and thinly sliced, grilled rib-eye, dripping with lime juice or sweet, smoky beets al pastor. Macheen, an energetic taco pop-up with a residency inside Milpa Grille in Boyle Heights and regular appearances at Smorgasburg and Distrito Catorce , continues to expand on the form with equal parts finesse and playfulness (and isn’t above adding an egg to a taco, if that’s what your heart desires).

2633 East Cesar E. Chavez Avenue, Los Angeles ; 323-269-2995; instagram.com/_macheen

Moo’s Craft Barbecue

Andrew and Michelle Muñoz started out hosting pop-ups out of their home in Los Angeles, inspired by the style and flavor of Central Texas barbecue, getting better and better with each time. Wobbly, still-steamy slices of brisket, housemade sausages and ribs (with excellent sides and soft slices of potato bread) are still the touchstones of the menu at their busy brick-and-mortar restaurant. But it’s also fun to enjoy Moo’s smoked meats in the form of single-subject sandwiches, whether the juicy, smoky pulled pork, the chopped brisket or the excellent smoked burgers — specials that developed such an intensely loyal fan base, they became a permanent fixture.

2118 North Broadway, Los Angeles ; 323-686-4133; mooscraftbarbecue.com

Sushi, Japanese

The first bite at Morihiro tends to be a creamy, bite-size piece of homemade tofu, an awfully quiet start at a luxurious sushi restaurant, but one that’s startlingly rich and unexpectedly satisfying. Pay attention and you might notice the rice mill in the dining room — it’s where Morihiro Onodera, a chef and potter who made many of the ceramics in the restaurant’s collection, and a star in the Los Angeles sushi scene, spends each morning polishing the rice he imports from Japan. If you’re lucky enough to sit at the counter, you’ll be able to measure the evening in clusters of that warm rice as they move through his hands, one by one, tinting with vinegar before they’re finished with transcendent shivers of fish.

3133 Glendale Boulevard, Los Angeles ; 323-522-3993; morionodera.com

Let’s say you don’t have a soft spot for the gorgeous, grisly, Escoffier-era grandeur of canard à la presse, a specialty of Rouen in which the duck’s carcass is crushed in a wheezing, torturous contraption — bones crunching, blood rushing — to build a rich sauce. That’s all right. You can still have a very good time at Pasjoli. Plenty of other very French dishes at Dave Beran’s bistro are as meticulously calibrated for maximum flavor and interplay of textures, and they won’t cause as much of a scene.

2732 Main Street, Santa Monica ; 424-330-0020; pasjoli.com

Perilla L.A .

The little banchan shop spills into a courtyard where you can feast on warm seasoned rice, sweet pepper muchim, marinated okra, perfect spirals of rolled omelets and more of whatever Jihee Kim has cooked in her tiny open kitchen that day. Ms. Kim, who started Perilla as a pop-up during the pandemic’s first wave of restaurant shutdowns, is guided by Korean cooking and fermentation techniques as much as by what excites her at the farmers’ market. The results are as unpredictable as they are delicious.

1027 Alpine Street, Building E, Los Angeles ; no phone; perillala.com

Pine & Crane DTLA

Bowls of savory soy milk, doused with vinegar and chile oil, and pork-floss-filled fan tuan made with purple sticky rice are a small, essential part of breakfast at Vivian Ku’s Taiwanese restaurant. The downtown location is informal, but the menu is more expansive and ambitious than her first Pine & Crane, with breakfast now a permanent fixture, lots more dishes through lunch and dinner, a bigger tea program and a list of Taiwanese whiskeys that you can try neat or in chilled, fizzy highballs.

1120 South Grand Avenue, Unit 101, Los Angeles ; 213-536-5292; pineandcrane.com/dtla

Poncho’s Tlayudas

The grill in the garden outside the offices of the Comunidades Indígenas en Liderazgo (CIELO) has long been an oasis for those seeking thin, toasted tlayudas filled with gently steamed cabbage and golden dregs of lard, but it has recently transformed into something else, too. As word has spread, Poncho’s has become a destination for blood-sausage connoisseurs of all kinds who travel from every neighborhood in Los Angeles for a taste of Alfonso Martinez’s mastery of the form: dark, sweet, delicate loops, barely marked by the grill, flecked with onion, yerba buena and dried chiles.

4318 South Main Street, Los Angeles ; 213-359-0264; ponchostlayudas.com

Quarter Sheets

Aaron Lindell and Hannah Ziskin’s Echo Park pizzeria confidently shifts from thick, airy, crisp-edged Sicilian corners inspired by, say, California Pizza Kitchen’s barbecue chicken pizza one day, to cracker-thin bar pies jeweled with wrinkly, charred Jimmy Nardello peppers the next. Though Ms. Ziskin’s daily dessert specials and seasonal sheet cakes would be reason enough to join the loyal crowd that gathers outside as soon as the restaurant opens. Slices — both savory and sweet — are always worth the wait.

1305 Portia Street, Los Angeles ; 424-543-4970; instagram.com/quartersheets

Walter and Margarita Manzke run several good restaurants here, but République is inseparable from the city and its rhythms — the efficient breakfast meetings, the working lunches, the birthdays and anniversaries and date nights. An important note: The breads and pastries aren’t just for looking at on the way in, and the baguette is excellent, even at dinnertime, when you can and should order it with both butter and pan drippings to start your meal.

624 South La Brea Avenue, Los Angeles ; 310-362-6115; republiquela.com

The Ruby Fruit

People told Emily Bielagus and Mara Herbkersman not to bother opening a queer bar in Los Angeles in the year 2023, particularly one for the sapphically inclined. Luckily, they didn’t listen. Happy crowds testify to the popularity of an inclusive queer and lesbian bar with good vibes, yes, but also to the easy warmth of the service and the skill and joyful spontaneity of the kitchen, where loaded hot dogs are always available (both meaty and vegan), along with the occasional savory fig galette, tomato and stone fruit salad and platter of fried smelt.

3510 Sunset Boulevard, Los Angeles ; 323-522-6323; therubyfruit.com

Japanese, Izakaya

Charles Namba’s nimble cooking and Courtney Kaplan’s sake expertise and knack for concise, clear tasting notes, make for a dreamy, welcoming neighborhood izakaya anchored by juicy, perfectly timed yakitori grilled over charcoal, and wobbles of chawanmushi. As summer turns to fall, kabocha squash, mushrooms and fattier fish will slowly make their way onto Mr. Namba’s menu, paired with Ms. Kaplan’s favorite autumnal, umami-rich sakes. If you forgot to make a reservation and the small room is already packed, head next door to Ototo , a fantastic sake bar run by the same team, where you can console yourself with the black-pepper tofu.

1356 Allison Avenue, Los Angeles ; 213-900-4900; tsubakila.com

Korean American

John and Katianna Hong’s soaring downtown space started as a kind of market and deli inspired by both Korean and Ashkenazi Jewish traditions, where dishes like a juicy pea-shoot salad and golden-capped congee potpie always made perfect sense. Recently reimagined as a more formal restaurant, with a more polished and idiosyncratic menu, it’s even easier to love.

712 South Santa Fe Avenue, Los Angeles ; 213-866-1987; yangbanla.com

Yang’s Kitchen

Asian, New American

Order a single, gigantic pancake and you’ll start to understand the magic of Chris Yang’s endearing all-day cafe in Alhambra, where even a pancake comes together with immense deliberation and care (and locally ground cornmeal and mochi rice and ripe, juicy fruit from the farmers’ market). But Yang’s really gets going at dinner, when you can build a feast of a meal and sip sake and wines from a short, unfussy list that somehow doesn’t look like every other restaurant’s short, unfussy list.

112 West Main Street, Alhambra ; 626-281-1035; yangskitchenla.com

In such a peaceful dining room, surrounded by a suspiciously cheerful staff in all-white uniforms, it might seem as if Yess were the headquarters for an arcane Southern Californian cult. But no, this isn’t that kind of restaurant. Junya Yamasaki’s cooking is as precise and controlled as his menu is inviting and flexible: Put together exactly the dinner you feel like eating, whether that’s a long, luxurious sequence of dishes from one of the tasting menus, or simply a cold beer with a hot, crispy katsu doused in Worcestershire sauce that you order à la carte.

2001 East Seventh Street, Los Angeles ; no phone; instagram.com/yess.restaurant

Follow New York Times Cooking on Instagram , Facebook , YouTube , TikTok and Pinterest . Get regular updates from New York Times Cooking, with recipe suggestions, cooking tips and shopping advice .

An earlier version of this article misidentified the organization Poncho’s Tlayudas is next to. It is the Comunidades Indígenas en Liderazgo, not the Binational Front of Indigenous Organizations.

An earlier version of this article misstated the neighborhood where Milpa Grille is located. It is Boyle Heights, not Lincoln Heights.

How we handle corrections

Tejal Rao is a critic at large. She writes about food and culture for The Times and contributes regularly to The New York Times Magazine. More about Tejal Rao

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Where to go for the World’s Best Street Food

Some travelers follow their head, others their heart, but me? I listen to my stomach, deciphering its rumbles and following where it directs me to go, based on which exotic flavors and authentic dishes I can’t wait to taste next.

So, from Mumbai to Mexico City, tagine to tacos, we’ve compiled a list of the places you should visit for the world’s best street eats, where to head to find the best hawker spots, as well as which must-try local treats you should get your teeth into. Enjoy and try not to drool everywhere.

Warning: this round-up of the best cities to visit for street food will make you hungry.

Bangkok’s street food scene is definitely one of the best Asian food experiences you can have as a visitor to the city and a way of life for locals. Although not confined to any one particular area of the city, Chinatown and the city’s markets are ideal for snack-hunters on the prowl.

Meander down any soi (short road or alley) and you’re sure to find steaming stalls serving up grilled satay, pad thai, spring rolls, and other typical Thai titbits. Finish your meal off with freshly sliced guava, juicy mango, or other exotic fruits such as sweet mangosteen and pungent durian.

2. Mexico City

Tostadas, tamales, and tacos… oh my! CDMX’s street food is both flavorsome and moreish – after all, it’s impossible to order just one taco.

Start with the classic tacos al pastor (pork, sometimes with pineapple), then work your way up to cow tongue and eyeball. For dessert, opt for tangy pomegranate seed sprinkled with salt and chili, served with a squeeze of lime.

Osaka’s Dotonbori district offers a street food safari of tasty delights as well as a feast for the eyes, with quirky shopfront designs, neon signs (including the famed Glico running man), and little izakaya (bars) tucked away down side streets.

Don’t miss the freshly made takoyaki – diced octopus in batter, served with takoyaki sauce, mayonnaise, and a sprinkling of bonito flakes.

4. Istanbul

Head to Istanbul’s Karakoy and Ortakoy neighborhoods to discover how Turkish street food is so much more than the traditional doner kebab (though that’s always an excellent choice).

Choose from bagel-like simit bread, kumpir stuffed baked potatoes, borek flaky pastries, and balik ekmek fish sandwiches, but leave room for sweet baklava to finish.

5. Hong Kong

Hong Kong’s enduring street food culture can be a mixed bag of stomach Russian roulette for hungry tourists, but that’s part of the fun. Cheong fun steamed rice rolls soaked in a sweet soy sauce make for a sweet snack, whilst egg waffles are as delicious as they are Instagrammable.

However, if you’re feeling more adventurous, try curried fish balls, pig intestine, fermented bean curd, and that thing everyone is eating yet can’t seem to translate for you, but, hell, you’ll try it anyway!

You may be familiar with falafel, kofta, and shawarma already, but there are plenty of other Egyptian street food delicacies that haven’t yet found their way to the international food stage.

Start with a breakfast of fuul fava bean dip, best enjoyed with falafel. Then, for lunch try koshary, made with pasta, rice, and lentils, topped with a spicy tomato sauce. For dinner, go for pizza-like hawawshi, which consists of minced meat, onions, and chilies sandwiched between layers of Arabic-style bread.

7. Portland

Portland’s renowned hipster vibe comes complete with a strong food truck presence, many of which you can find parked up around town or in semi-permanent “pods.”

The cuisines on offer are niche and diverse, so bring a couple of friends along to share plates of Romanian chimney cakes, bacon cheeseburger dumplings, and panzerotti (a Portland original of one part fry bread and one part calzone).

Wash all of this down with an artisan coffee, craft beer, or glass of vino from an urban winery. I’ll bet my pierogis you’re served by a man with thick-rimmed glasses, a man bun, and a twirly mustache.

A bout of infamous “Delhi belly” is worth the risk for the rich flavors on offer at Mumbai’s busy street stalls. Bhelpuri (puffed rice and vegetables in a tangy tamarind sauce) and vada pav (potatoes seasoned with garlic, chili, and herbs) are the main draws here, but hearty biryanis are also a winner, best paired with a sweet mango lassi to calm your tickled taste buds.

However, if you’re worried about getting sick from local street food, read our Food & Drink Safety Guide for advice on how to choose what to eat wisely whilst traveling.

9. Ho Chi Minh

Walk down the streets of Ho Chi Minh (Saigon) and it’s impossible not to be tempted by the fragrant wafts of pho and freshly baked baguettes – a perfect example of the city’s East-meets-West cuisine.

Squat on a plastic stool with your soup noodles or eat your banh mi on the go, choosing from a selection of fillings including pate, Vietnamese sausage, chicken, pickled veggies, meatballs, grilled pork, or beef.

10. Rio de Janeiro

Brazil’s capital, Rio de Janeiro, is full of culinary delights; fusing Portuguese with Japanese and original Brazilian styles in its street food scene. Head to the beaches of Ipanema or Copacabana for street eats such as churrasquinho meat skewers, pao de queijo cheesy bread, pastel meat pockets akin to dumplings, and cachorro quente hot dogs.

If you still have room, then indulge your sweet tooth with tapioca crepes and chocolate churros, followed by fresh acai juice.

11. Marrakech

The souks of Marrakech’s medina transform into a lively assortment of street food stalls, performances, and entertainment when the sun goes down, creating a festival-like atmosphere.

Have your fortune told, listen to live music, puff on a hookah pipe, then tuck into plates of tagine, fried eggplant, couscous, and a bowl of harira soup. Perhaps you could even nibble at a few local favorites, such as snails and sheep’s head if you’re feeling brave.

A blend of Zulu, Indian, and European influences have converged in the South African city of Durban to create delicious street food options.

Curries are a must-try, with rotis, samosas, and “bunny chow” (a hollowed bread roll filled with curry) great takeaway options for satisfying the munchies. If you can’t handle the spice, other choice dishes include whole grilled chicken, lamb wors (sausage), and Zulu burgers.

13. Singapore

Think of street food and you might well be conjuring images of Singapore’s hawker centers, with a variety of Asian flavors available, including Chinese, Indian, and Malay. Although stricter health regulations have set high standards for the hawkers (and therefore moved much of the street food off the street), there are still plenty of authentic and flavorsome dishes to sample.

Enjoy tongue-tingling Hokkien mee noodles, steamed pork buns, grilled satay with peanut sauce, steaming laksa soup noodles, and fresh seafood, amongst many others. Next, head to the island’s Little India for a thali tray of delectable dhals and aromatic curries.

Think of French cuisine and you may conjure images of frogs’ legs, or snails drizzled in garlic. However, the city’s most humble of dishes is also one you can simply find on a cobbled Parisian street corner: the crêpe.

Savory crêpes with dripping gruyère cheese and thinly-sliced ham is a delicious lunchtime snack, or select Nutella and banana if you’re feeling something sweet.

15. Cartagena

The plazas of Colombia’s Cartagena are filled with stalls serving up skewers of carne, cups of tangy ceviche, plus the local favorite of arepas.

Found all over Colombia and Venezuela, arepas are a kind of cornbread, fashioned like a pancake patty and filled with cheese, meat, tomatoes, salad, or eggs, plus lashings of butter.

Head to the markets of South Korea’s capital and you’ll discover a plethora of exciting street eating options.

Myeong-dong is one of the city’s best spots for street food, with vendors selling bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes), haemul pajeon (seafood pancakes), gimbap (Korean rice rolls similar to sushi), mandu (steamed dumplings), and gyeran-bbang (sweet egg bread).

17. Palermo

Italian food is beloved all over the world, so picking just one Italian city is extremely difficult. Sicily’s Palermo beat Rome to the punch with Italian favorites such as sliced pizza and focaccia, plus Sicilian originals such as arancini (fried rice balls) and pani câ mèusa (bread with spleen, often served with ricotta cheese).

Sicily also boasts some of the best gelati in the country, perfect for a passeggiata on a warm summer evening.

18. Honolulu

Hawaii’s mix of migrants and fresh seafood have combined to create a thriving street food culture. Try poke (raw fish salad), often served with tuna or octopus, with flavors ranging from kimchi to ceviche.

Food trucks also sell malasadas (Hawaiian donuts) and manapua (pork buns). If you’re in the city on the last Friday of the month, don’t miss “Eat the Street” – a food truck rally in Kaka’ako Park.

For carnivores, Berlin is a street food haven, serving up plates of ubiquitous currywurst; chopped up bratwurst sausages drowned in ketchup and dusted with curry powder.

This dish is best ordered with a side of crispy potato pancakes, or hand-cut spätzle (a type of pasta), then washed down with a German beer.

20. Kingston

Two words: jerk chicken. The irresistible smoky flavor comes from the charcoal and green pimento wood, which the chicken is cooked over; as well as the rich spices and peppers rubbed into the meat.

This spicy snack is usually served with rice and peas, sometimes a bowl of oxtail soup, but always with a tropical climate and laidback reggae tunes.

Did any of the above street eats and local delicacies get your mouth watering? Or did we miss out one of your favorite foodie destinations? Let us know in the comments below.

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Get traveling, backpacker 101.

8 of the best places to visit in the Faroe Islands

Mar 1, 2024 • 6 min read

Get to know the Faroe Islands with these top places to visit © Bastian Linder / 500px / Getty Images

For once, you can have it all in one trip: waterfalls and superlative seafood restaurants, windy mountain roads and surf beaches.

The joy of being in the Faroe Islands  – a small island group with a population of 53,000 and a total landmass of 1399 sq km – is that everything is close by. As long as the weather is on your side, you can see just about all of these key sights during a short break. 

Travel here is highly seasonal and very weather dependent. You might plan to visit a certain island, but as to whether you will be able to or not during your stay… you’ll have to wait and see. Here are just a few of the must-visit spots of the Faroe Islands. 

1. Múlafossur waterfall

Best for awesome nature

Until 2004, the only way you could get to the village of Gásadalur and the location of Múlafossur waterfall, was to walk the steep cairn-marked hiking trail over the mountain and back. Just ask the postie, who used to do it three times a week. Today, a tunnel links it with the road from Vágar airport, making it an easy first or last stop on your trip. 

Park in the main car park and then follow the path down to the cliffs for views of the waterfall. You can feel the sea spray from the cliff top as you watch the torrent of water pour over the edge and shatter the sea below; in summer you might see a few fat-footed puffins flapping around the sandy, grassy cliffs here too. 

Planning tip: Drop into the local shop, Uanni, for something special to take home, including hand-knitted jumpers from Faroese wool. 

2. Tórshavn

Best for food

The capital of the Faroe Islands is a characterful place, with ancient alleyways, a colorful harbor and some great places to eat. If you’re looking for nightlife, bars, and shopping, this is where to go.

Mikkeller , an offshoot of the successful Danish microbrewery, doubles as a place to shelter and play board games in the rain; across from it down the wonky Gongin alley, Roks is the best place to eat on the island, now that its sister restaurant, Koks, has moved to Greenland . Expect everything from sea urchin roe to the long spindly legs of snow crabs, and dishes dusted with fish scales that look like confetti. Ræst , just down the street, also has a great reputation. 

Planning tip: If you’re looking for something less extravagant, the city’s fish and chips scene is said to be the best in the country.

3. Tjørnuvík

Best for beach lovers

I have a soft spot for the remote village of Tjørnuvík on Streymoy, with its black-sand beach looking out to the sea stacks of Risin og Kellingin (the Giant and the Witch). It’s a sweet little village at the end of a long road winding through the hillsides, with a hike to the remote village of Saksun leading over the back of its mountains and a little surf shack offering lessons just off the beach. 

It’s a place where you can discover antiques and whale bones in a little local shop, or buy waffles and coffee at a cafe. In winter, thanks to the dominating mountain behind it, Tjørnuvík is one of the few spots on the island to experience 24 hours of darkness. It feels like the setting for a dark historical drama or a strange love story.

4. Trelanípan

Best for easy hiking

You may have seen Lake Leitisvatn (also called Lake Sørvágsvatn) on social media – it’s one of the Faroe Islands’ most famous landscapes. In drone shots, taken from across the cliffs from the lake, it appears to hang suspended over the ocean thanks to an optical illusion. The hike to Trelanípan – the "Slave Cliff" – is currently one of the islands’ paid hiking routes, where you can walk on a relatively flat path through the old peat fields to the lake, and then on to the cliff with views of towering sea stacks including one named "The Witch’s Finger". It takes around an hour each way.

Planning tip: Guided tours bring the landscape alive and include grisly stories about Vikings and disobedient slaves who were thrown off the cliffs, along with tales of local myths and legends.

Best for coastal walks

The fishing village of Gjógv is named after its gorge, a great natural scar in the cliff that offers a safe harbor. It’s worth a visit for the drive there alone, on a road that swoops down the green sheep-filled hillsides to the sea. The road was created over 400 years ago, so a local told me, as a shortcut to the best fishing grounds. 

Today the tiny village has whitewashed, turf-roofed houses, a little church and few inhabitants. If you walk down past the gorge you can catch a view of dark islands on the horizon and nesting birds in the cliffs in summer. There’s also a bench on the clifftop commemorating the 2005 visit of then Crown Princess Mary, now Queen Mary of Denmark. A moving statue in the village graveyard depicts a lady with two children looking out to sea, wondering if her husband will ever return.

Planning tip: There are lovely walks from Gjógv, including a 4km (2.5 mile) hike to Funningur, a quiet seaside village at the foot of the Faroes’ highest mountain. Allow a half day to get there and back.

6. Dranganir sea arch

Best for drama

The natural sea arch of Dranganir is on an island shaped like a triangle just off the coast of Bøur. You can admire it from the shore or take a boat ride around it and the neighboring island of Tindhólmur. Birds breed on the basalt cliffs in spring and summer, and the sea rages around the sea stacks all year round, adding a little more drama to the mix.

Planning tip: Ferry trips to the popular puffin island of Mykines come back via the sea arch, giving you two attractions in one. Book this trip early in your stay so if it is canceled due to bad weather you can hopefully rebook for a calmer day.

Best for Bond enthusiasts

In the northeast of the Faroe Islands, Kalsoy is accessible by car ferry from Klaksvík. Its claim to fame is its starring role in the 2021 James Bond film No Time To Die . Daniel Craig’s James Bond dies standing on Kallurin looking out to the horizon, on the hiking path that leads to the islands’ lighthouse. Enterprising tourism people have erected a tombstone in his memory, etched with the words: “The proper function of man is to live, not to exist.” Adventurers visiting this epic spot in the Faroe Islands will surely nod their heads in agreement.

Best for off the beaten track

Sandoy has always been connected to the rest of the archipelago by ferry, but from the start of 2024, its new undersea tunnel has put this southerly island on the map. Tour the tiny villages, try dining with some locals and don’t miss the island’s claim to fame: a yarn-bombed rock.

Planning tip: For a superlative bird-watching experience, and an alternative to the popular Mykines trip, take a boat trip from Sandoy to the island of Skúvoy. The island is named after the Great Skua, many of which nest there.

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The 13 Best Los Angeles Tours

Maximize your time in Los Angeles with the insider tips and historical context provided by the best local tours.

Courtesy of Bikes and Hikes LA

At more than 465 square miles, Los Angeles defies easy exploration. Even those who dream of touring the city's top attractions in a sporty convertible may be discouraged by the city's notorious traffic congestion and tough parking rules. To enjoy that stress-free, laid-back vacation California is famous for, choose an easy, efficient guided tour. Using both traveler sentiment and expert opinion, U.S. News selected some of the top tours in Los Angeles whose entertaining introduction to the city will engage intrepid explorers, first-time visitors and local residents alike.

Bikes and Hikes LA – Hollywood Sign Hike

Price: From $29 Duration: 3 hours

Summit Mount Hollywood on this hiking trip. You'll see Griffith Park and the Forest Lawn Mausoleum as well as the world-famous Hollywood sign and panoramic vistas of the city. Be ready for a workout: You'll hike approximately 4 miles round-trip. Reviewers say the tour is excellent and the guides provide lots of history during the hike.

Tours are offered daily year-round and depart at 8:45 a.m. and 4:15 p.m. The company also offers a shorter version of this hike and several bike tours of LA.

Check prices & availability on:

Open Bus Tours – Movie Star Home Tour

Price: From $35 Duration: 2 hours

Open Bus Tours whisks you through Hollywood and Beverly Hills in an open-top van to show you the places where the rich and famous play. The guide will point out landmarks associated with past and current celebrities, contemporary sports figures and YouTube stars, plus drive past famous movie studios and filming locations, if available. You can snap photos of mansions, the Hollywood sign, the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Rodeo Drive, the Sunset Strip, the Dolby Theatre and more. Visitors say they like leaving the LA driving to fun, knowledgeable guides who entertain them with gossip. Others emphasize that this is more of a sightseeing tour and wish that they saw more celebrity homes.

The tours are available from Thursday to Monday; there are four departures each day. The company also offers private tours.

Big Bus Tours Los Angeles – TMZ Celebrity Tour

Price: Adults from $59; kids from $49 Duration: 2 hours

Gossip, secrets and buzz-worthy names are the focus of this popular Hollywood Celebrity Hot Spot Tour from Big Bus Tours Los Angeles and TMZ, the famous celebrity news website. The guided bus outing departs several times daily from Hollywood and makes no stops. Instead, the entertaining guides show video clips, share stories, do giveaways and play games. Recent tour-takers who love celebrity gossip and pop culture offer very positive reviews of the outing, while some complain about not seeing any celebrities during their tour.

Tours depart multiple times daily. TMZ also runs a Hollywood Selfie Tour, which shuttles tourgoers to the best photo spots.

ExperienceFirst – Haunted Hollywood Walking Tour: True Crime, Creepy Tales

Price: Adults from $39; kids from $35 Duration: 2 hours

This ghost tour not only covers paranormal activity in Hollywood, but also delves into LA's crime history. You'll learn about serial killers who traumatized the city as well as the infamous Manson family murders. Among the locations you'll visit are the Hollywood Roosevelt hotel and the Hollywood Pantages Theatre. Reviewers say the tour is excellent and that guides are wonderful storytellers.

Trips depart at 6 p.m. nightly. ExperienceFirst also operates guided hikes to the Hollywood sign, among others.

Courtesy of A Day in LA

A Day in LA Tours – LA City Tour

Price: Adults from $99; kids from $89 Duration: 7.5 hours

Cruise from Venice Beach to Griffith Park and everywhere in between on this tour. Tourgoers will hop on an air-conditioned bus that's equipped with device charging ports and cruise in comfort to areas like Beverly Hills, Rodeo Drive and Santa Monica. First-time visitors to LA rave about how much you see in one day despite the city's famous traffic. Others appreciate spending about 40 minutes at each attraction so they could explore and take photos.

Trips depart daily around 8 a.m. A Day in LA Tours offers hotel pickup from Los Angeles area hotels for an additional fee. You can also take this tour from Anaheim.

Six Taste – Downtown Los Angeles Food Tour

Price: From $85 Duration: 4 hours

On this Downtown LA walking tour by Six Taste, visitors will sample signature dishes from five eateries while learning more about the history of downtown and the city's diverse cultures. Tastings may include pupusas, pizza, chicken mole and gelato. The company partners with more than 100 restaurants, so these tastings may change. Locals and visitors alike rave about the Six Taste guides and their selection of hard-to-find stands and shops, as well as the delicious food.

Downtown tours run on Saturdays and Sundays only at 11 a.m. The tour is vegetarian friendly. Some dietary accommodations can be made as long as you notify the company at least 72 hours in advance. Other popular Six Taste tours explore Santa Monica and the Arts District.

Malibu Wine Hikes – Malibu Wine Hike & Trail Tour

Price: From $49 Duration: 2 hours

California wine is a must-try for oenophiles, but you won't need to venture to Napa, Sonoma or Santa Barbara to sample some vino. Approximately 30 miles west of LA you'll find Malibu, a well-known beach town and home to Malibu Wine Hikes. On its 2.5-mile wine tour, you'll explore Saddlerock Ranch and its incomparable beauty, including the property's grape vines. Guides will tell you about the varietals the ranch grows and you'll get to taste the wine it produces. Visitors say they had a great time and are particularly wowed by the scenery.

Keep in mind this hike isn't accessible and strollers and wagons are not allowed. Tours depart Wednesday through Monday. Times can vary by day, but you can generally expect tours in the late morning and mid-afternoon. Malibu Wine Hikes also offers a popular tour in a four-wheel drive vehicle.

Sunset Ranch Hollywood – Mulholland Trail Tour

Price: From $75 Duration: 1 hour

Hop on a trusted steed and explore Griffith Park with Sunset Ranch. As you ride through the park, you'll see the Hollywood Sign, the Pacific and LA vistas. Tour-takers say that the guides are friendly and knowledgeable; the ride is a great option for beginners. They also rave about the views from the trail. While children are welcome, they must be at least 8 years old to ride; they company doesn't allow double riders.

You'll want to book your tour online in advance to secure a spot. Tours depart hourly from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. If you want a longer ride, consider the two-hour Mt. Hollywood Trail Tour.

Courtesy of Architecture Tours L.A.

Architecture Tours L.A. – Silver Lake

Price: From $80 Duration: 2-3 hours

Architecture buffs and design professionals should book ahead for this tour of the Silver Lake neighborhood. For up to three hours, you'll view midcentury modern and contemporary homes by master architects Richard Neutra, Rudolph Schindler, John Lautner and other notables. Architectural historian and author Laura Massino Smith is your expert guide as she chauffeurs you through the neighborhood via van. Tour-takers appreciate Smith's insider access to homes designed by master architects that would otherwise be impossible to find or view up close.

Tours run daily around 10 a.m. and are given by reservation only. You can get tickets by contacting the company directly and you must have at least two people to book. Architecture Tours L.A. hosts a variety of other tours through Los Angeles neighborhoods, such as Hancock Park/Miracle Mile and West Hollywood/Beverly Hills.

Sidewalk Food Tours of Los Angeles – Downtown LA Food Tour

Price: Adults from $89; kids from $75 Duration: 3 hours

This vegetarian-friendly food tour of downtown Los Angeles appeals to travelers interested in the neighborhood's history and ethnically diverse culinary scene. You'll make six food stops that could include doughnuts, French pastry, Mexican tacos and Asian fusion. You'll also walk through Grand Central Market and see sights like the Biltmore Los Angeles, a luxury hotel, and the Million Dollar Theatre. Visitors rave about the knowledgeable guides and appreciate finding restaurants to return to, while locals enjoy learning about downtown and the city's hidden gem restaurants.

Expect to walk or stand the entire tour and bring a full water bottle. Tours run at 11 a.m. Friday through Monday. Many stops can accommodate gluten-free, vegan and dairy-free diets. Sidewalk Food Tours also offers a West Hollywood Food Tour and private food tours.

Surf City Tours – The Perfect Malibu Tour

Price: Adults from $85; kids from $70 Duration: 5.5 hours

See the homes of the rich and famous – with a side of spectacular ocean scenery – during this tour. Surf City Tours whisks you through Malibu to see the homes of celebrities like Lady Gaga and Cher as well as historic sites and filming locations. It also includes an hourlong stop so you can explore the beach on your own. Travelers say the tour is a must-do and appreciate the guides' enthusiasm and historical knowledge.

Tours depart at 9:30 a.m. daily. You must bring a car seat for all children 8 and younger. Tours depart from the company's location in Santa Monica. The company also runs a surfing trip and a Hollywood tour.

Universal Studios Studio Tour

Price: Included with park admission Duration: 1 hour

Movie fans will get a thrill out of Universal Studios' Studio Tour, a theme park attraction that moves tram riders around the studio backlot. Jimmy Fallon serves as your video tour guide who introduces short clips that serve to enhance the narration from your in-person guide. During the tram ride, you'll encounter the Jupiter's Claim set from "Nope," the shark from "Jaws" and other key props. Interactive experiences include watching a 3D King Kong battle a T. rex and racing alongside stars from "The Fast and the Furious" movie franchise. Both experiences are favorites of reviewers who especially enjoy the special effects. Some tour-takers feel that it is more of another theme park ride than a tour.

The backlot tours leave throughout the day. Tours are included with the Universal Studios Hollywood theme park ticket, which starts at $109 per person for one-day general admission. The park offers multiple shows and rides featuring famous animals, cartoon characters and blockbuster hits.

Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood

Price: Adults from $70; kids from $60 Duration: 3 hours

Spend time with friends, scientists and wizards during the Warner Bros. Studio Tour. For one hour of the experience, a guide will drive you around the backlots of the studio while they tell you about the company's history and how they produce films and shows. The remainder of the the tour is self-guided. Tour-takers can explore sets from "Friends" and "The Big Bang Theory," see numerous costumes and props (including items from the DC Universe and "Fantastic Beasts") and grab a bite to eat or a souvenir at the cafe and shop. Tourgoers rave about this tour, calling it an absolute must for movie fans.

Tours are available daily from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. You must select a specific time slot when you book. You can upgrade your experience to a Plus or Deluxe tour, which include longer guided tours and meals.

You may also be interested in:

• Best Things to Do in Los Angeles
• Best Los Angeles Hotels
• Best San Diego Tours
• Best California Tours
• Best California Beaches

Tags: Tours , Los Angeles , Vacations , Travel , California Vacations , US Vacations , U.S. West Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

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Honduras Travel Guide

Last Updated: September 1, 2023

Unfortunately, owing to its violent past, it often gets glossed over for more polished Central American hotspots.

However, Honduras today is a much safer country and is popular with intrepid backpackers and expats looking to get off the beaten path. With world-class diving, a cheap cost of living, and incredible weather, Honduras offers some of the best value in the region.

That said, you’ll still need to take precautions and keep your wits about you — especially on the mainland — as crime and gang activity are still common.

This travel guide to Honduras can help you see the country, stay safe, and make the most of your visit to this beautiful and affordable country!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on the Honduras

Top 5 Things to See and Do in the Honduras

1. Explore the Copán Ruins

These incredible Mayan ruins are located near the border with Guatemala and are one of Honduras’ most popular tourist attractions. Nestled in a lush jungle valley, Copán Ruinas are a UNESCO World Heritage Site dating back to the height of the 5th century when Copán was a powerful capital of the Southern Maya kingdom. But in 738 CE, the king was captured and executed by his rival and archeologists believe that the city was abandoned by 800 CE. Today, the ruins attract tourists for their intricate stelae, tunnels, a hieroglyphic stairway, as well as the geography of the area itself which is filled with diverse wildlife including monkeys, sloths, parrots, and macaws. It takes a couple of days to see the entire site so try not to squeeze your visit into a day trip. There are two main sites: Copán, the main site originally used for nobility, and Las Sepulturas. To get there, head to the town of Copan Ruinas near the border with Guatemala; the ruins are nearby. Bring lots of sunscreen and water. Admission is 370 HNL.

2. Dive the Bay Islands

The Bay Islands, known as “Islas de la Bahía,” are one of the best diving spots in the Caribbean. They are located in the Gulf of Honduras and near the Belize Barrier Reef, which is part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System. The Roatan, Utila, and Guanaja archipelagos all offer stunning dive sites with crystal-clear waters and incredible marine life. Roatan is the largest island while Utila is the cheapest, attracting budget divers as the island as it also offers a stunning array of wildlife, including nurse sharks, sea turtles, stingrays, and more. Get up close to colorful coral formations or deep dive 2,000 feet into the abyss for bluntnose sixgill shark sightings. Prices start at 870 HNL for one dive or a package of ten dives for 7,405 HNL.

3. Relax at Lake Yojoa

The country’s largest lake is rich in biodiversity with almost 400 bird species and over 100 plant species. This incredible site is a popular fishing spot for locals, a great place to visit a coffee plantation tour, and a fun place to zipline. Or if you’re looking for an adrenaline-filled experience, hike behind the stunning Pulhapanzak waterfall and explore the inside caves with the sound of water pounding around you. For something a bit more peaceful, rent a kayak and spend a few hours paddling around the lake. Or, if you don’t mind small spaces, head into the Caves of Taulabé where you can either explore on your own or hire a spelunking guide if you want to go deep underground. For a nice wander through the lush jungle wetlands, check out Los Naranjos Ecological and Archaeological Park. And if you’re up for a real challenge, hire a guide to climb to the top of Santa Barbara (2,744 meters/9,000 feet).

4. Adventure at Pico Bonito National Park

This sprawling bio-diverse national park is home to lush tropical jungles and moody cloud forests. It’s a haven for hiking, wildlife watching, and ziplining. The Cangrejal River is a fantastic place for white water rafting, with Class I-IV rapids. Or you can go swimming in the river and even jump off the rocks into the water if you feel like it. There are many different hiking trails here too, like the La Roca loop and the El Mapache trail to Bejuco Falls. If you’re a fan of the outdoors, don’t miss it. You can reach the park from La Ceiba or do it as a day trip from nearby regions.

5. Escape to Cayos Cochinos

The archipelago of Cayos Cochinos, made up of Cayo Menor and Cayo Grande, are two coral-abundant islands that offer some of the most postcard-perfect sandy white shorelines in Central America. They offer plentiful diving and snorkeling and the nearby cays are home to the world’s second-largest coral reef system. The only way to reach the Cochino Cays Marine Sanctuary is by boat; you can take a chartered day tour from Roatan and Utila or from La Ceiba. It’s a great place to disconnect and relax.

Other Things to See and Do in the Honduras

1. visit mercado guamilito.

Located in San Pedro Sula, this traditional market is an excellent place to buy Lenca ceramics, high-quality (and reasonably priced) leather, cigars, and silver. There’s also a no-frills food market that locals claim offers the best baleada , a national dish made with flour tortillas, cheese, cream, and fried beans. The market is open daily from 7am-4 pm.

2. Chill out on Utila

Most backpackers make a beeline for the island of Roatan, but if you’re looking for something beyond diving, Utila is a better option. It has a buzzing nightlife, cheap accommodation, beautiful white sand beaches, and even the chance to spot whale sharks. The 45-minute ferry ride from La Ceiba to Utila costs 750 HNL.

3. Visit Parque Nacional Jeannette Kawas

This national park is named after Jeannette Kawas, an environmental activist who fought to protect the area from commercial development and was brutally murdered in 1995. Now, her legacy lives on with this protected area, filled with abundant wildlife including howler monkeys, boa constrictors, and toucans. You’ll also find pristine beaches and untouched coral reefs here. The secluded park is also known as Punta Sal National Park and is just a 30-minute boat ride from Tela, a Caribbean coastal town. Admission is 120 HNL. Day trip prices start around 690 HNL.

4. Go zip lining

If you’re craving an adrenaline rush, Honduras has a dozen zip-lining experiences to choose from all around the country (including several on Roatan). Prices vary but expect to pay at least 950-1,085 HNL for a half-day tour. Lunch is usually included.

5. Explore the Río Plátano Biosphere Reserve

This heavily-forested area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the last remaining tropical rainforests in Central America. Established in 1982, it spans over 5,250 square kilometers (2,027 square miles) and is home to Mayan ruins, ancient petroglyphs, pumas, jaguars, giant ant-eaters, sloths, and over 2,000 indigenous locals. Getting here requires some effort (it’s a 6-hour bus from La Ceiba followed by a short boat ride) but you’ll be rewarded by sweeping vistas and a rare look at indigenous life in the rainforest. You can hire a day guide on arrival (for around 400 HNL) or embark on a multi-day tour up the river for 3,000 HNL. Kayaking day trips start around 940 HNL and crocodile night watching starts around 1200 HNL. Admission to the reserve itself is by donation.

6. Visit Valle de Angeles

This colonial town makes for a good day trip from Tegucigalpa, the capital of Honduras. It’s located 35 minutes away by car and, aside from the beautiful colonial buildings, there’s a lot of affordable handicraft shopping. While you’re here, spend some time relaxing in Parque Central, where you’ll see the historic colonial church or head into La Tigra, the nearby cloud forests that are full of hiking trails (admission is 247 HNL). Don’t forget insect repellent if you do visit the forest!

7. Attend Carnaval de La Ceiba

This is the biggest carnival in Central America. Held every May in La Ceiba, it attracts half a million revelers every year. The celebration is in honor of Saint Isidore the Laborer, the patron saint of the city. For two weeks, throngs of people flock to La Ceiba’s barrios (neighborhoods), who compete to throw the best carnavalito (little carnival) in town. It’s all in anticipation for the main event, the rainbow-filled parade “La Feria de San Isidro”, which takes place along Avenida San Isidro on the 3rd or 4th Saturday of May.

8. Go hiking in Parque Nacional Cusuco

This ethereal cloud forest is nestled into the Merendon mountain range near the border with Guatemala, making it somewhat difficult to access (during the rainy season you’ll need a 4×4). It’s a 2-3-hour drive from San Pedro. There are five stunning hiking trails that cross the cloud and dwarf forests. Expect to see plenty of parrots, toucans, and quetzals here. Unless you have a 4WD vehicle, you’ll need to go with a tour company. Admission is around 250 HNL.

9. See the Roatan Butterfly Garden

Located in Roatan, this indoor garden is home to over 30 species of moths and butterflies, as well as a large collection of boa constrictors, parrots, scarlet macaws, and tropical orchids. It is best to visit during the early morning when the butterflies are most active. Admission is around 358 HNL.

10. Visit the Lancetilla Botanical Garden

Located on the coast in Tela, Honduras’s only botanical garden happens to also be the largest in Latin America. Spanning over 4,100 acres, it boasts thousands of varieties of national and exotic flora and fauna (including a bamboo collection and an orchid collection). There are over 1,500 trees in its arboretum and the garden also has 3,000 acres of virgin rainforest. It’s open 365 days a year and admission is 198 HNL.

Honduras Travel Costs

Hostels – Shared dorms with 4-8 beds cost 370 HNL per night, with private rooms costing anything from 400 to 1,400 HNL. Free Wi-Fi and free breakfast are generally included. Most hostels also have A/C and hot water.

Wild camping isn’t recommended here due to petty theft, rainstorms, and the sweltering humidity. There are a few campgrounds around the country, though they aren’t any cheaper than staying in a hostel.

Budget hotels – Budget hotels can be found for around 1,000 HNL for a double room. Most of the cheaper hotels include Wi-Fi, however, for a hotel with a kitchen, A/C, and a pool you’ll pay at least 2,000 HNL per night.

Airbnb is available in Honduras but really only found in Tegucigalpa and the tourist spots on the coast. Prices start at 500 HNL for a shared room, 1,000 HNL for a private room, and 2,900 for a villa.

Food – Honduran cuisine leans heavily on fish, soups, beans, rice, and coconut. Popular dishes include guisado (a spicy chicken stew), carne asada (grilled sliced beef), and baleda (cheese and bean tortilla). Generally, you can expect a mix of Spanish, Lenca, and Caribbean influences.

Local meals consisting of rice, beans, and a drink costs around 120 HNL. Set lunch menus at comedores (small local eateries) offer large portions for cheap so stick to them when eating out.

Street food is popular here, with popular favorites being grilled corn, baleadas (a tortilla filled with fried beans, cream, and cheese), pastelitos (a Cuban pastry similar to empanadas), and fruit smoothies (a common breakfast here). These are usually under 50 HNL.

A three-course meal at a restaurant serving local cuisine costs 600 HNL, including a drink. These establishments usually add a 10% service charge to your bill too. Expect a blend of traditional Mayan cuisine (rice, beans, corn, seafood) with touches of Western and Caribbean flair.

A bottle of water is 17 HNL and a latte or cappuccino will set you back 43 HNL. Domestic beer is around 70 HNL.

Backpacking Honduras Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget of 875 HNL per day, you can stay in a dorm, eat street food for all your meals, take buses to get around, and do some hikes or other free activities like lounging on the beach. If you plan to drink, you’ll need to add around 150 HNL more per day.

On a mid-range budget of 2,400 HNL per day, you can stay in a budget hotel, eat out at local restaurants, have a few drinks, take the occasional taxi, and do some paid activities like visiting national parks or diving.

On a “luxury” budget of 5,200 HNL, you can stay in a private villa or nicer hotel, take taxis everywhere, eat out anywhere you want, drink more, and do more tours and activities. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in HNL.

Honduras Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Honduras is very affordable. You’d be hard-pressed to spend a lot of money here unless you are actually trying to. That said, a true budget traveler always looks for ways to save. Here are some money-saving tips to help you:

• Refill your water – The tap water in Honduras is not safe to drink so make sure you have a reusable bottle with a built-in filter. To stay safe, bring a water filter like LifeStraw to ensure your water is clean and free from bacteria. You’ll save money on buying bottled water and save the environment too!
• Know what to pay – When you need to barter for something, talk to your hostel/hotel staff first. Find out what a fair price is so that you can avoid getting overcharged.
• Avoid paying with a credit card – Honduras is a cash-driven society. In places where you can pay with a credit card, expect fees of 5-10%. Pay with cash as often as possible.
• Learn some Spanish – To avoid getting overcharged, learn some Spanish. Even just a few words and phrases can help you avoid being charged tourist prices.
• Travel during the shoulder season – Prices are highest during the dry months (December-April). To avoid crowds and save money, travel during the rainy season or shoulder season. You might get rained on, however, accommodation and activities will be cheaper.
• Stay with a local – Honduras has a small Couchsurfing scene, but if you book early you can likely find a host who can share their insider knowledge and give you a free place to stay.

Where to Stay in Honduras

Honduras has plenty of fun, safe, and social hostels. Here are some of my suggested places to stay in Honduras:

• Roatan Backpackers Hostel (Roatan)
• Palmira Hostel (Tegucigalpa)
• Iguana Azul (Copan Ruinas)
• Jungle River Lodge (La Ceiba)

How to Get Around Honduras

Bus – The cheapest way to get from A to B in Honduras is by bus. For local city journeys, taxis are recommended due to safety issues (petty theft is common on public transportation).

Direct buses for cross-country trips are more expensive but more comfortable and faster than the slower buses that make multiple stops. A direct bus from Tegucigalpa to La Ceiba takes around 6 hours and costs 860-950 HNL. A direct bus from Tegucigalpa to Copan Ruinas takes 9 hours and costs 1,293 HNL.

The multiple-stop buses ( parando ) are slower and can add a few extra hours to your trip. But, if you’re not in a rush, they can save you upwards of 50%.

Taxi – Taxis are plentiful and can be found pretty much everywhere. Fares start at 74 HNL and are charged at 65 HNL per kilometer.

Shared taxis ( colectivos ) are common for popular routes in the bigger cities too and will slash the private rates in half. Negotiate prices prior to getting in the car. Ask your hotel/hostel staff for rates before you arrive so you aren’t ripped off.

When on the islands, water taxis are your best option for getting around. They run from Roatan to West End, and from Coyolito to Isla del Tigre. Shared water taxis cost between 75-100 HNL depending on the route.

Flying – Domestic flights in Honduras are expensive. Connections between the major cities (La Ceiba, Tegucigalpa, San Pedro Sula) to Roatan, run frequently, however, one-way tickets to these key destinations usually cost between 3,000-4,250 HNL each way. If you’re on a budget, avoid flying.

Car rental – Driving in Honduras is not recommended as the roads aren’t that safe (landslides, flooding), there’s heavy traffic, and robberies are common. Avoid renting a car and stick to buses.

When to Go to Honduras

Honduras is, for the most part, a year-round destination. Temperatures hover around the 27-32°C (82-90°F) mark all year. However, the clammy humidity can feel like it’s higher than that during the rainy season (May-November).

Hurricanes are possible from April to October, however, if you’re willing to change your travel plans on a whim due to the weather, you can save a lot of money by visiting during this period. Be aware that booking during las lluvias (the rainy season), means rural areas (and hiking trails) can be harder to access due to storms.

The driest months, from December to April are considered peak season and are the best (albeit most expensive time) to visit. The coastal areas are particularly packed during this period, although ‘busy’ for Honduras is still pretty quiet compared to other popular Latin American destinations. If you’re serious about diving, you’re also going to get the best visibility during this time.

How to Stay Safe in Honduras

Honduras has found it difficult to shrug off its former status as the ‘murder capital of the world.’ Yet the country has improved leaps and bounds in terms of safety and the majority of travelers have no trouble navigating the country safely.

Homicides decreased by over 50% from 2012-2019 and kidnappings declined by 82% from 2013-2019. The majority of crimes happen in the major cities: Tegucigalpa, San Pedro Sula, and La Ceiba so I would be extra vigilant in those places, especially at night. (I wouldn’t walk around the capital at night alone.)

Outside of those areas, crime is much less common (especially in the Bay Islands). That being said, it’s important to keep an eye on your belongings on public transport, in busy urban areas, and near bus stops/stations.

Take cabs at night (ideally with other travelers) instead of walking alone and avoid walking down side streets that are not well lit.

Walking around during the daytime is usually trouble-free as long as you keep your valuables out of sight and don’t flash fancy jewelry, phones, or money.

Avoid taking the city bus, where pickpocketing is rife.

Since scams can occur here, read about common travel scams to avoid so you can be prepared.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here as long as they follow the advice above. Additionally, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.).

If you’re visiting during hurricane season (April-October), be sure to check the weather regularly.

If you experience an emergency, dial 911 for assistance.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Honduras Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Honduras Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Asia travel and continue planning your trip:

Do You Need Travel Insurance for Costa Rica?

The Best Tour Companies in Costa Rica

The 6 Best Hostels in Panama City, Panama

Is Belize Safe to Visit?

Is Central America Safe to Visit?

How to Get Around Central America on a Budget

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