Top 10 Travel Destinations For Foodies

8 April 2016 | Written by Joe

Food, glorious food! Whether you’re the type of foodie who loves to discover new flavours, learn the finer points of cooking your country’s cuisine, or dine at the top restaurants the world has to offer, travelling to new destinations offers a wealth of excitement. But when it comes to food-centric tourism, not all destinations were created equally. There are some places out there that are just unbeatable as far as your tastebuds are concerned. Here are ten of the best destinations to whet your travel appetite…

1. India

The cream of the crop, the ultimate destination, the Mecca for food tourism – it has to be India. The sights of India are complimented by the smells of the spices, and food is central to culture and customs of the Indian people.

Whether you’re sampling the phenomenal seafood of Goa or the spicy biryani in Hyderabad, delicious and cheap street food in Mumbai or the best of Rajasthani cuisine in Jaipur, you’re in for a treat. There is no better way to explore India’s culture and history than through its cuisi

2. Thailand

Thailand is the place that turns anyone into a foodie, whether you arrive there as one or not. From the street food to the fine dining options in Bangkok, Thailand offers some of the best eating you’ll ever have in your life.

Bangkok is home to Nahm, the most famous Thai restaurant in the world, but also has world-class restaurants of other cuisines. Chiang Mai is the place to take a cooking class to learn how to make some of the best Northern Thai dishes, including the unbeatable khao soi.

3. San Francisco, USA

You could do a whole foodie tour across the USA, given that it is home to some of the world’s best foodie destinations, such as New Orleans and New York. But nothing beats San Francisco.

Every visit to the Golden City has to start at the Ferry Building Marketplace where you can sample local produce ranging from artisan cheeses to fresh oysters. And no visit is complete without a belly full of clam chowder and sourdough, San Fran’s most famous dish. Napa Valley wine region is just up the road for a day of wine tasting.

4. Italy

It’s a broad stroke to list ‘Italy’ as a food destination, given that every region has a unique cuisine. But that’s precisely why you should cover the whole country on a food-focused tour.

Start down in Sicily, with its home-style restaurants and distinctly Mediterranean flavours. Then head up through the stunning country stopping in for pizza in Naples, gelati in Rome, and some hearty meat paired with a local wine in Tuscany. Possibly the best part about Italy is the coffee. Punctuate every day with the best cappuccinos and espressos you’ve ever had the pleasure of tasting.

5. Buenos Aires, Argentina

Vegetarians need not take notice. Buenos Aires is all about the steak. A visit to the mesmerising Argentinian capital will have you eating late dinners, catching steamy tango shows, and sipping Malbec until the early hours of the morning.

The traditional parrilla is the only way to experience the glory of Argentinian meat. This slow-cooked barbeque meat will have you wondering how it is possible to grill meat so tenderly. Smother it with chimichurri or leave it plain, it’s that good.

6. Paris, France

If India is the ultimate foodie country, Paris is the ultimate foodie city. Home to Le Cordon Bleu – the world’s most famous cooking school – the French capital is widely accepted as one of the most significant influencers of modern cooking. The Parisians are so good at cooking they can turn frogs’ legs and snails into delicacies.

Fine cheeses, excellent wines, delicate macaroons, baguettes that’ll have you wondering how bread can be such an exciting thing to eat – Paris really is the best place to treat your taste buds. Sit in a quintessential café or put on your Sunday best for an evening at one of the many Michelin starred restaurants, it’s all going to be delicious!

7. Lima, Peru

Peruvian cuisine is so hot right now. Ceviche is popping up on funky and fancy menus the world over. There’s no better time to visit the capital to experience this unique cuisine first hand.

The Peruvians were eating quinoa and chia seeds well before the hipsters, and what they can create with their ingredients will blow your mind. Participate in a cooking class to learn how to prepare the raw fish dish of ceviche for yourself, and try not to think about your childhood pet as you nibble on some roasted cuy (guinea pig).

8. Barcelona, Spain

When it comes to Spanish tourism, it really doesn’t get better than Barcelona. And when it comes to food tourism it’s no different. The flavours of Barcelona reflect the influences of nearby countries such as Morocco, Greece, France, and Italy, but many dishes hinge on three key ingredients: olive oil, garlic, and tomato. But with such a magic combination, what can go wrong?!

Dine on the water front, in a funky neighbourhood bar, or prepare your own picnic with fresh produce from the market along La Rambla. Tapas in king here, which means you get to sample more dishes – perfect!

9. Copenhagen, Denmark

For the high-end foodie who is guided by Michelin stars, it doesn’t get better than Copenhagen. The Danish capital is full to the brim with fantastic dining establishments. Most importantly, it’s home to the best restaurant in the world – Noma. Waterfront Noma is consistently ranked as one of the world’s top restaurants and is always winning awards. For the new crop of up-and-coming culinary talent, head to Jaegersborggade in the Norrebro district.

Hot dogs are popular in Copenhagen now, but for something more traditional you should try frikadeller (meatballs), roast pork, or anything with cod in it. And you can’t visit Copenhagen without having a classic Smørrebrød open sandwich for lunch.

10. Turkey

Pide, clay-pot baked stews, meze… Turkey is the food destination for people who just enjoy good eating. Long lazy dinners on the waterfront on the Turquoise Coast, in home-style eateries in the central regions, or in funky restaurants in Istanbul’s Taksim district, all over this country you’ll be treated to some of the best meals of your life. Start the day with a traditional Turkish menemen omelette, have some gozleme for lunch, try three different types of kebab for dinner, and top it all off with some homemade baklava for desert.

Take a wander through Istanbul’s Spice Market to discover the spices used in the traditional dishes of this unique cuisine. Participate in a cooking course to learn how to use them. Don’t forget to grab some authentic Turkish Delight to take home with you.