By: Heather Keys
Are you an adventurous eater? Always up for a totally new dish, even if you’ve never heard of some of its ingredients?
Well, you may find it worthwhile to plan your next vacation around the amazing flavors of the world—starting with these destinations that are home to all kinds of incredible foods.
Whether you’re looking for local ingredients and time-honored traditions, or if you want to dive into multicultural fare, you’re bound to find a foodie adventure in each of these cities!
Verona, Italy
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If you absolutely cannot get enough Italian food, Verona is a must-visit destination for its classic Italian dining experiences, as well as its wines and traditional dishes.
The city is renowned for its Amarone wine, produced in the Valpolicella region. Food lovers can indulge in risotto all’amarone—made with the rich, local red wine—and pastissada de caval, a traditional horse meat stew. And of course Verona’s charming piazzas and historical settings provide the perfect backdrop for enjoying gelato or sipping espresso.
Related: 6 Leading Wine Regions from Bordeaux to Mendoza & Beyond
Bangkok, Thailand
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Bangkok is a perfect destination for a foodie traveler thanks to its wide range of dishes spanning from street food staples to the creative plates served up at internationally-recognized restaurants.
The city has an expansive street food scene, with vendors serving affordable, traditional Thai dishes like pad Thai, green curry, and som tam (green papaya salad). Foodies can explore bustling markets like Chatuchak for a wide variety of fresh produce, seafood, and snacks.
The city is also home to many Michelin-starred restaurants, showcasing the best of Thai cuisine—and if you’re looking for a gorgeous night out, try out one of these top Bangkok riverside restaurants for some great seafood.
Melbourne, Australia
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Melbourne has a wonderfully diverse culinary scene, reflecting its multicultural population. The city is famous for its coffee culture in particular, with tons of cafes creating high-quality, artisanal coffee. Foodie travelers can enjoy a range of international cuisines, from delicious Italian pizzas along Lygon Street to Vietnamese pho in Richmond. Melbourne also hosts food and wine festivals that attract global chefs and showcase local Victorian produce.
London, England
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London’s culinary landscape is as diverse as its population, offering everything from traditional British fare to international cuisines. Borough Market and Camden Market are hubs for different foods, including fish and chips, meat pies, and international street food. The city also is home to an impressive number of Michelin-starred restaurants and innovative culinary experiences, making it a must-visit for those seeking culinary excellence.
Related: Why London’s Coffee Shops are the Best
Buenos Aires, Argentina
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You might know that Buenos Aires is celebrated for its steakhouses and Malbec wine. The city’s culinary identity is deeply rooted in its Italian and Spanish heritage, letting you try excellent pizza, pasta, and tapas. Foodies can explore the historic San Telmo Market to taste local specialties like empanadas, choripán, and dulce de leche treats.
Cape Town, South Africa
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Cape Town has a unique blend of African, European, and Asian flavors, creating a fantastic culinary scene. The city is known for its seafood, game meat, and traditional dishes like bobotie (spiced minced meat bake). The Winelands near Cape Town provide opportunities to pair local South African wines with gourmet meals in gorgeous settings.
New Orleans, USA
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New Orleans is famous for its Creole and Cajun cuisines, with mouth-watering staples like gumbo, jambalaya, and beignets. The city’s colorful food scene includes everything from upscale dining to classic po’ boy sandwich shops. Annual events like the New Orleans Wine & Food Experience highlight local flavors and culinary talent.
Osaka, Japan
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Osaka is known as Japan’s kitchen, famous for street food and casual dining. Local specialties include okonomiyaki (savory pancake), takoyaki (ball-shaped snacks usually filled with octopus), and kushikatsu (deep fried skewered meats and vegetables). The city’s Dotonbori area is a foodie haven, with tons of eateries displaying a taste of Japan’s culinary highlights.
Istanbul, Turkey
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Straddling two continents, Istanbul has a unique culinary fusion of Eastern and Western flavors. Street food such as simit (sort of a bagel coated with sesame seeds), kebabs, and baklava are ubiquitous. The city’s storied history is reflected in its cuisine, with traditional restaurants serving Ottoman dishes alongside modern eateries with contemporary Turkish food.
Lima, Peru
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Lima is the gastronomic capital of South America, known for its innovative fusion cuisine that blends indigenous, Spanish, African, and Asian influences. The city is particularly famous for ceviche—fresh fish marinated in citrus juices—and anticuchos, or grilled skewered meats.
Lima’s culinary scene is dynamic, ranging from traditional picanterías to high-end restaurants led by internationally acclaimed chefs. The city’s dedication to culinary excellence is evident in its numerous gastronomic festivals and the presence of top-ranked restaurants. Read our quick guide to Peruvian food here!
Related: The History of Ceviche, Peru’s Signature Dish
Seoul, South Korea
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Seoul has a bustling culinary scene that ranges from traditional Korean dishes to modern fusion cuisine. Street food vendors in areas like Myeong-dong and Gwangjang Market serve popular snacks such as tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), gimbap (seaweed rice rolls), and sundae (Korean blood sausage).
Korean barbecue, where diners grill their own meat, is a must-try experience. The city’s dedication to food is also seen in its numerous themed cafes and innovative culinary concepts.
Ready to Travel?
The journey through the world’s best foodie destinations is more than just a tour—it’s an immersive experience into the heart and soul of each city’s culinary tradition.
So, pack your appetite and let’s go on an adventure that’ll satisfy your hunger and enrich your understanding of the world…happy travels!
About the Author
Heather is a freelance writer who loves exploring the intersection of travel and history. Read her other articles on Frayed Passport here.
Featured image by Chris Tweten on Unsplash
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