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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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Foodie Bucket List: The 11 Best Cities for the Culinary Curious

Whether you’re a chef, a food blogger, or just like to eat and travel, the world is your oyster when it comes to gastronomy. If you’re a foodie, this bucket list will be perfect for you! 

There is no better way to explore new cultures and corners of the world than literally tasting the culture. Every country has its own culture and stories.

The best stories are told through a world of flavor. Pizza is always great, we can all agree, but there is a lot more to be discovered out there. 

We are talking about places that are not so mainstream which can open a whole different world of flavors for you. The best thing is that your next foodie adventure won’t break your bank because we made a special selection for you.

While we were amidst the pandemic, we could’ve only dreamt of exotic travels and exotic foods. Maybe experiment with some dishes at home and hope for the best.

Now when things seem to get back to normal, it is great to start planning your next foodie trip. 

The Ultimate Foodie Bucket List 

Why should you create a food bucket list.

Well, the planet Earth is the only place in the known universe where food is always a crucial part.

We assume that we won’t get to see Elon Musk opening the first restaurant on Mars, so the best thing we can do is to explore this little universe of delights. 

Your foodie bucket list should contain visiting places far away, perfecting your home-cooked meals, and leveling up in your cocktail game .

So, traveling is crucial because there you will find neverending inspiration for your cooking experiments. 

Colombo is a city in Sri Lanka that is known for its incredible food. It is also the cheapest city for foodies, according to the World Foodie Cities Index .

The city has a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and food stalls that offer a wide range of cuisines.

Some of the most popular dishes in Colombo include kottu roti, a dish made with chopped roti bread and meats, eggs, or vegetables. The next honorable mention is lamprais, a rice and meat dish that is wrapped in banana leaves.

If you love coconut and everything about it, try coconut sambal, a spicy coconut salad. Colombo is also home to some of the most famous restaurants such as the Ministry of Crab and Nihonbashi.

The city also hosts the Culinary Art Food Expo which attracts chefs from all over the world.

If you’re looking for an incredible culinary experience, Colombo is the place to be. The city’s wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and food stalls offer something for everyone.

So, channel your inner Christopher Colombus and embark on a new foodie adventure. 

Kathmandu is the capital of Nepal and is a city that is rich in culture and history. The city is also home to some of the best foods in the world.

It is a unique mix between Tibetan and Indian food, but you can also feel the impacts of other cultures as well. So, it is basically an amalgamation of everything exquisite.

If you are a foodie, then Kathmandu is definitely a city that you should add to your bucket list.

Some of the best Nepali foods that you can try in Kathmandu include momos, dal bhat, and sel roti. Momos are steamed dumplings that are typically filled with meat or vegetables.

Dal bhat is a rice and lentil dish that is often served with curried vegetables. Sel roti is a type of Nepali bread that is made from rice flour and fried in ghee.

In addition to great food, Kathmandu is also a beautiful city to explore.

Some of the must-see sights include Durbar Square, Boudhanath Temple, and Swayambhunath Temple. You will feel like you are in a completely different universe if you decide to visit any of these sites.

Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City is a foodie paradise. There are so many delicious things to eat, and the city is full of amazing restaurants. There is something for everyone in Ho Chi Minh City, from street food to fine dining.

One of the best things about Ho Chi Minh City is that you can find great food at any price. Whether you want to save money or splurge, you’ll be able to find something to suit your budget.

When you are visiting this amazing city in Vietnam, the first thing you need to try is com tam. This meal contains rice, meats, eggs, and shredded pork skins… so, there is something on the plate for everyone’s taste. 

If you are obsessed with noodles, you will have a lot to look forward to. Best soups with the tastiest homemade noodles await. Just try hu tieu or pho…and thank us later.

If you’re curious about trying new things, Ho Chi Minh City is the perfect place for you. There are so many different dishes to try, and you’ll never get bored of the food here.

From traditional Vietnamese cuisine to fusion dishes, there’s something for everyone in Ho Chi Minh City.

Paris is a city that is well-known for its food. Even the simplest of foods are becoming little culinary masterpieces in France.

Everything there is cheesy, buttery, melty goodness, from dishes to sweets. There are many different types of cuisine to try in Paris, from French food to international cuisine. 

Therefore, an absolute must is to try all kinds of cheese and wines there to get into the mood for something even more delicious.

You can’t miss trying the famous onion soup or Bœuf bourguignon. If you want something sweet, go for a chocolate souffle. Light and airy yet rich and luscious, you will spoil yourself with this goodness in no time. 

There are so many different types of food to try, and you’re sure to find something that you’ll love. Whether you’re looking for French food or international cuisine , you’ll be able to find it in Paris. 

This city is home to some of the best Serbian cuisine in the world. It is also one of the cheapest cities in the world. That’s why it should definitely be your next stop. 

You’ll find traditional dishes like ćevapi or sarma, as well as modern takes on Serbian classics. And, of course, no trip to Belgrade would be complete without trying some of the city’s famous rakija.

In addition to incredible food, Belgrade also has a thriving nightlife scene. There are countless bars and clubs to choose from. Belgrade also has a number of excellent museums and art galleries. It is the city that never sleeps.

Budapest is a city that is rich in culture and history. The food scene in Budapest is no different. There are many traditional dishes to try, as well as international cuisine.

If you are looking for an adventure, then Budapest is the place for you. There are many different food tours available that will allow you to sample the best of what the city has to offer.

Traditional Hungarian cuisine is all about delicious and spicy home-cooked meals. Goulash or fisherman’s soup tastes amazing.

If you have a sweet tooth – a famous chimney cake can be the perfect sweet snack on the go while you are exploring this amazing city. 

 If you are a fan of wine, then you will be happy to know that Budapest is home to many different vineyards. You can take a tour of the vineyards or even go on a wine tasting tour.

Zagreb is the capital of Croatia and is a great city for foodies. The city has a wide range of restaurants, cafes, and bars, serving both traditional Croatian cuisine and international dishes.

There are also many markets and food stalls selling local produce and specialties. 

When it comes to some signature Croatian dishes, there is a little thing called ‘’ispod peke’’ and you need to try it. It is a simple dish, meat combined with potatoes, but the secret lies in the preparation process.

You will need to see for yourself. Medjumurska gibanica is perfect if you crave something sweet, yet you are unsure if you want something creamy or crunchy. You will get everything neatly packed in one cube of flavor. 

Zagreb is known for its excellent coffee. There are many cafes serving delicious coffee, and some of them even offer specialty coffees from different parts of the world.

The city is also home to a number of Michelin-starred restaurants, including Noel, Agava, and Takenoko. These restaurants offer an unforgettable dining experience and are definitely worth checking out if you’re a true foodie.

Overall, Zagreb is an excellent city for foodies. There’s something for everyone, from traditional Croatian cuisine to specialty coffees and Michelin-starred restaurants.

If you’re looking for a culinary adventure, Zagreb is the perfect place to visit.

Prague is a city that should be on every foodie’s bucket list. The city is home to a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and markets, all of which offer something unique and delicious.

Some of the must-try dishes in Prague include traditional Czech dishes like svíčková na smetaně (beef sirloin in cream sauce), karbanátek (grilled pork sandwiches), and goulash.

For those with a sweet tooth, Prague also has a lot to offer, from trdelník (chimney cake) to sladké buchty (sweet buns).

In addition to its great food, Prague is also home to some of the best beer in the world. The city is home to many breweries, both big and small, that offer a variety of different styles of beer.

There are also a number of bars and pubs that are perfect for enjoying a cold pint.

Overall, Prague is a city that should definitely be on any foodie’s radar. From traditional Czech dishes to delicious sweets, there is something for everyone to enjoy. And with its great selection of beer, it’s the perfect place to be.

Krakow is quickly establishing itself as a must-visit destination in Europe, and its food scene is a big part of that.

Krakow is known for its pierogi (Polish dumplings). Pierogi has been around since the 13th century and they come with a wide variety of fillings. 

Be sure to try zapiekanka, a type of street food made with grilled mushrooms, cheese, and ketchup on top of a baguette.

So, basically a predecessor of pizza. For something sweet, try obwarzanek krakowski, a kind of pretzel covered in sugar and cinnamon.

These only seem complicated to pronounce, but you will learn how to do them as soon as you try them.

Krakow is a city in Poland that is known for its culinary traditions. The city is home to many excellent restaurants that serve traditional Polish cuisine.

From traditional Polish cuisine to delicious bakeries and cafes, there is something for everyone in this city. 

Istanbul is a city that is absolutely brimming with culinary delights. There is something to suit every taste, whether you’re looking for traditional Turkish dishes or something a little more experimental.

The city is home to some of the best kebabs in the world, as well as delicious street foods such as kofte, kebabs, or pide.

And of course, no visit to Istanbul would be complete without trying the famous Turkish coffee. Turkey is the bridge between Europe and Asia so it represents a unique mix of Orient and Western civilization, in the best possible way.

If you’re a fan of seafood, you’ll be in heaven in Istanbul. The city’s seafood restaurants serve up some of the freshest and most delicious seafood you’ll ever taste. 

Oslo is a great city for foodies. There are a variety of restaurants to choose from, ranging from traditional Norwegian cuisine to more famous international dishes.

Yet, Oslo is an expensive city for foodies… but it definitely means that they do something right.

When you are in Oslo, we definitely recommend trying lutefisk, herrings, meatballs, and prawns. No matter if you simply love the seafood or delicious meaty dishes, you will find everything you need in Oslo. 

Some of the best places to eat in Oslo include the restaurant Maaemo, which has two Michelin stars. For something a little cheaper, try the restaurant Kontrast. 

Oslo is also home to several food festivals held throughout the year. Matstreif Food Festival is held every May and features over 200 vendors selling everything from seafood to sweets. 

If you’re a foodie, Oslo is definitely worth a visit. You’ll find plenty of great places to eat and drink, as well as some really amazing dishes to try out.

To conclude, we hope that you get to visit one of these 11 perfect cities for your inner foodie! However, if you’re looking to stay in the USA, check out our guide of food-lover places to go in the United States!  

Satyne Julianna Doner is currently a sophomore studying business management in sunny Tampa, Florida. A born bibliophile, she spends most of her free time curled up in a fantasy book or writing her own. When she isn't studying, reading, or writing, she is an avid equestrian and staunch supporter of rehabilitating retired racehorses. She owns one horse, named Hurricane, who keeps her grounded in all her endeavors.

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35 Best Foodie Destinations in the US

Looking for the best foodie destinations in the US? Discover the best places to eat in the United States, top restaurants & typical American dishes.

I have asked travel & food experts to spill the best food cities to eat in America to help you decide where to go and what to ask for!

So let’s dive into the best travel destinations for food lovers in the US .

Best Foodie Destinations in the US

Chicago, Illinois

Chicago is known for its deep-dish pizza and hotdogs, but there are many more foodie experiences to be had in this city. 

The melting-pot effect of a big city means that Chicago has many foodie influences – from soul food to Szechuan, from mid-west classics, to the Mediterranean. 

One of the most exquisite dishes ever created comes from Avec, a modern Mediterranean restaurant in the West Loop.

Their chorizo stuffed dates, wrapped in bacon and served in a rich tomato stew, are beyond delicious; and really highlight the gastronomic levels Chicago has reached. 

Of course, you can’t visit Chicago without having some deep-dish pizza; and Lou Malnati’s is a hot favorite. Their ‘Malnati Chicago Classic’ pizza with buttercrust and lean Italian sausage is a thing of melting beauty. 

If you must try a Chicago hotdog, make sure it’s a Vienna beef dog from George’s Hotdogs in Bucktown – with onions, mustard, sweet relish, a dill pickle, tomato and more. And for dessert, how about soft chocolate chip cookies? 

A reason why Chicago is one of the best foodie destinations in the US is that it manages to elevate the most modest foods – their hotdogs are dressed up as if they are going to the theater!

Hannah – Hannah Henderson Travel

New Orleans

No foodie trip in the United States is complete without a stop in New Orleans. It’s one of the few cities in the United States that truly has its own cuisine.

There are so many famous dishes that come from New Orleans: the po’boy and muffaletta sandwiches, gumbo, jambalaya, beignets, pralines, and more.

Cocktail lovers can also indulge in many drinks that were invented here, like the Sazerac and the Ramos Gin Fizz.

There are so many fabulous places to eat in New Orleans that it can be difficult for a traveler to decide which ones to visit. After all, the city has over 20 James Beard award-winning restaurants.

A perfect eating day in New Orleans might start with beignets (a kind of square doughnut covered in powdered sugar) and cafe au lait at Cafe du Monde.

For lunch, try gumbo and fried chicken at Dooky Chase’s Restaurant. The legendary late chef at Dooky Chase’s, Leah Chase, was the inspiration for Tiana in The Princess and the Frog.

For dinner, enjoy one of New Orleans’s best fine dining experiences at Commander’s Palace.

You can indulge in their tasting menu, or you can order their specialties a la carte. They are best known for their turtle soup finished with sherry at the table and their marvelous bread pudding souffle.

By the end of this day, you’ll have tasted the very best New Orleans has to offer!

Stella Jane – Around the World in 24 Hours

There is little doubt that eating is one of the top things to do in New York . The Big Apple, as many affectionally call it, is more and more becoming a foodie destination in the US, with many visiting with the sole purpose to gorge on delicious food.

Throughout the years, the offer of food in New York has become outstanding.

From street food to fine dining; from Italian-American staples found in Little Italy to more authentic Italian cuisine; from Chinese to Thai and Japanese – you are bound to find anything to satisfy your taste buds and to match your budget needs.

Spend enough time in New York and you can feast on a different cuisine for every meal.

Yet, some foods scream New York more than others, and you really should not miss those.

Make sure to have a good slice of New York thin crust pizza – it’s very different from the Italian one, yet oh-so-good.

Another staple is the New York style cheesecake , best eaten at Junior’s.

Last, but definitely not least, New York is the best place to gorge on bagels and cream cheese.

Whether you want a sweet one or a savory one, you are bound to find something that tickles your tastebuds. The best bagels in town are those at Ess-A-Bagel – so popular it’s become a local institution.

Claudia Tavani – My Adventures Across The World

Los Angeles

Los Angeles definitely is one of the best foodie cities in the US on top of offering various popular sights.

Brimming with fantastic pubic markets , foodie truck eating venues, world class fine dining and even ethnic neighborhoods that host specific markets, restaurants and other specialty food venues to the ethnic and cultural heritage; even family friendly restaurants that kids will love!

You’ll find that every area of the city is very food focused with an interest in providing fresh and locally sourced, artisanal flavors and the best of what’s available nearby and from around the world.

It’s hard to specify a typical food that stands out in an international city like Los Angeles that boasts cuisine that covers all grounds of specialty, local or world class foods and dining.

But the must-try things to at least experience in the city is old California/Mexican heritage and foods especially in the Olvera street neighborhood with fantastic cafes and restaurants that cater to Mexican and Hispanic flavors. Must try are churros from Mr. Churro, Juanitas for taquitos and tamales and La Noche Buena for the perfect Brunch.

Close by is Japan town which is a short walk from Olvera street and hosts a variety of specialty foods, snacks, eateries and other fine dining covering Japanese foods.

Must try places include Marugame for delicious udon, Hide sushi for perfect sushi bites and B Sweet Dessert Bar for some yummy goodness. Los Angeles may not have it’s own local food but it sure is one of the best food vacations in the US.

Noel Morata – Travel Photo Discovery

Miami – Little Havana

Foodies visiting the States and keen to try something different should look no further than Miami’s Little Havana neighborhood, one of the best places to visit in the US .

This diverse neighborhood is home to Hispanic residents not limited to Cubans who arrived in the neighborhood during the Wet Foot Dry Foot Policy that allowed them to apply for residency if they could reach the country.

As a result, there are plenty of tasty foods to try in Little Havana , most notably the Cuban dishes.

A popular restaurant to Le Pub known for its authentic empanadas and thimbles of super sweet Cuban coffee. These might look small but each thimble-sized cup contains more caffeine than the average Americano.

You also shouldn’t miss Old Havana Cuban Bar & Cocina known for its traditional Cuban sandwiches.

These meaty morsels made with pork ham, mustard, pickles and Swiss cheese are absolutely delicious and will keep you full for several hours.

As well as visiting these well-loved restaurants run by Cuban families, you can find the best food in Little Havana , Miami by wandering the streets and stopping at bakeries and gelato stores. Keep an eye out for moreish pastelillos filled with cream cheese and fruit fillings.

Rose Munday – Where Goes Rose?

Napa Valley

The Napa Valley in northern California is one of the most famous wine country destinations in the USA . But among the other things to do in Napa Valley, besides enjoying wine tastings , is savoring all the fabulous food on offer in area restaurants.

You can find a range of cuisines in the Napa Valley, from French to Italian, but it’s the local California cuisine that draws epicureans to the region. Many restaurants have kitchen gardens right out the back door or across the street.

Chef Thomas Keller’s The French Laundry is of course the most sought after culinary experience in the valley. But if you want to eat there when you visit, make sure you make reservations well ahead of time. The multi-course tasting menu is a treat you will long remember.

Farmstead, in St. Helena, is a great place for lunch or a more casual dinner, albeit with fresh-from-the-farm ingredients and full of local flavor. And for a really tasty burger, head to Gott’s Roadside, where you will see a long line at lunch time.

For great desserts you will want to visit Bouchon, also a Chef Keller enterprise, in Yountville.

With all the top-notch restaurants in the area, it’s not hard to see why Napa Valley is one of the best places to travel for food in USA.

Dhara – It’s Not About the Miles

San Francisco

San Francisco is my favorite food destination in the US ! There are so many amazing options that we could visit every weekend and not run out of awesome places to eat for years.

The special thing with San Francisco is how multicultural it is. You can find amazing foods in every cuisine, even as a vegan.

Some of my favorite vegan places in San Francisco are Shizen Japanese, Gracias Madres Mexican, Loving Hut Chinese, Nourish café health food. The list is endless.

We have many Michelin star restaurants in San Francisco and many inexpensive lunch joints. Some of our favorite are Californios Mexican, Rooh, Rasa, Taj Compton and Curry up Now Indian restaurants.

We have restaurants with stunning views and great food in food courts. More of our favorite are the Soup Company in food courts and Slanted Door by the bay.

San Francisco has a famous Chinese, Italian, Japanese and other ethnic neighborhoods that have the most delicious and ethnic food that won’t leave a dent in the wallets.

Most of all San Francisco is a leader in fresh, organic, and high quality produce.

California is blessed with amazing weather which produces the best produce all year round so we can have a huge variety of seasonal food any time of the year. Many restaurants pride themselves to cooking only with fresh produce from farms.

Do make a foodie trip to California and you’ll love it. While you’re visiting check out the lesser known mosaic stairs of San Francisco .

Nirmal & Jyoti – Story at Every Corner

Savannah, Georgia

If you’re looking for classic Southern food with a stylish flare, then Savannah, Georgia is one of the best food cities in America not to miss out on.

There’s plenty of grits, buttermilk biscuits, fried green tomatoes (and other fried foods) for sure, but Savannah food seems to dazzle in a special way that just leaves you wanting to come back for more.

Don’t leave town without including breakfast at The Collins Quarter Café in your Savannah weekend itinerary . It’s a popular spot, but they don’t take breakfast reservations, so plan to get there before 9 or 9:30 a.m. if you’re there on a Saturday.

The Collins Quarter has a lot of great gluten-free options on the menu as well as some solid vegetarian options. And come with a big appetite, because their servings are quite generous. I really enjoyed their Bananas Foster French Toast, and their lavender mocha is quite simply the best mocha I’ve ever had. They even sprinkle it with tiny lavender blossoms!

For plant-based fare, you can’t go wrong with Fox & Fig Café just a block from the historic Cathedral of St. John the Baptist. Though the dining room is small, the food and service are excellent.

As far as foodie travel destinations in the U.S go, you can’t go wrong with Savannah. In fact, you could visit Savannah for the food alone and leave happy.

Darcy Vierow—Plan, Ready, Go!

For more travel tips on Savannah , check out this detailed post about Cool & Unusual Things to do in Savannah , Georgia.

Lafayette, Louisiana’s Cajun Country

There are so many good things to eat in Lafayette , the heart of Louisiana’s Cajun Country, that I run out of hours in the day to try them all.

The local version of Cajun boudin (French for sausage) is a loosely packed mixture of rice, pork and seasoning. It’s an ingredient in a lot of dishes, but try it on its own if you can to fully appreciate it.

When crayfish are in season, look for a place that serves them by pound, boiled with Creole seasoning and accompany them with local beer. You mainly eat the tails, but if you’re daring you can suck the heads like the locals do.

At Mardi Gras, look for king cake, a distant cousin of the cakes that the French and Spanish eat at Epiphany. Here it’s a round, hollow tube filled with sweet cream cheese that can mixed with pralines, cinnamon or strawberry.

It’s always covered in green, purple and yellow sugar. It looks achingly sweet, but it’s the kind of rich, bready, not-too-sweet cake that’s good with morning coffee.

Ver esta publicación en Instagram Mardi Gras is coming! Have you ordered your King Cake? Leave a 👑 in the comments below if you want to order one! ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ #kingcake #epiphany #mardigras #noevalleybakery #bakerylife #bakeryelove #sffoodie #bayareaeats #foodlovers #sfeats #foodstagram #potd #sanfrancisco #noevalley #westportal #SFLegacyBiz #sffoodies #foodieppics #thesugarflies #sanfranciscofoodies #foodfluffer Una publicación compartida de Noe Valley Bakery (@noevalleybakery) el 10 Feb, 2020 a las 7:11 PST

Speaking of coffee, French Press puts a creative, modern spin on traditional ingredients and serves up a breakfast that will keep you full past dinner time.

Share a side of sweet-and-salty praline bacon while you tuck in to grits and grillades, chicken and waffles, or poached eggs topped with boudin and gumbo.

Eggs on biscuits with boudin and local Steen’s cane syrup is not for everyone but it’s Lafayette food summed up on a plate.

For a casual lunch or dinner, seek out Old Tyme Grocery. Order a po’boy sandwich at the counter, grab a drink from the refrigerator case and find a table in the homey back room. Unless you’re a very hungry linebacker a half sandwich will be plenty.

Order the catfish and crayfish sandwiches when they have them or the fried oyster one anytime. They come with local Zappo’s potato chips, but the thick-cut fries or too good to miss. You shouldn’t plan to eat for the rest of the day, but chances are good that you will. Read more about food in Lafayette, LA .

Eileen Gunn at FamiliesGo!

Cleveland, OH

Cleveland, Ohio is an excellent foodie destination in the US that often gets overlooked.  It is the home of celebrity chefs and various neighborhoods filled with both old and new standbys. 

Locals can’t even keep up with the number of breweries and restaurants that continue to pop up, and visitors would never run out of amazing restaurants to experience.

First of all, celebrity chefs, including the likes of Iron Chef Michael Symon, have restaurants in Cleveland. Symon has two restaurants on trendy East 4 th Street in Cleveland: Lola Bistro and Mabel’s BBQ. 

Chef Jonathon Sawyer is another celebrity chef who has been featured on The Food Network, and also has a restaurant on East 4 th called Greenhouse Tavern.

To dive deeper into Cleveland’s foodie scene , one needs to branch out into the neighborhoods surrounding downtown. Head just over the Lorain-Carnegie Bridge to Ohio City, where you’ll find famous landmarks, such as the food stalls at Westside Market and Great Lakes Brewing Company.

Alternatively, you could head just south to the Tremont neighborhood. Personally, this is where I go with my husband for many of our special date nights, as Tremont has some of the city’s best fine dining establishments.

My favorite restaurants in Tremont are Dante for its delectable polenta dishes and Tremont Taphouse for a casual environment that still has great food and beer.

This is just the tip of the iceberg and there are so many more places worth visiting, making Cleveland the perfect destination for foodies to explore. Besides, if you’re looking for fun things to do in the Buckeye State, you’ll love Spring in Ohio !

Theresa – Fueled By Wanderlust

Asheville NC

Asheville isn’t just a mountain town among the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. Also known as “ Foodtopia ”, Asheville is becoming one of the best foodie destinations in the United States .

With James Beard award winning chefs and innovative culinary geniuses, fresh and local are not just buzz words thrown around the menu- it’s just the beginning of the foodie adventure.

Known for its laidback hippie vibe, Asheville is a fantastic place for vegetarians, vegans or the plant-based enthusiast . Always sourcing from local farmers and many restaurants utilizing the Appalachian culture, there is a diverse restaurant scene in Asheville.

But Asheville isn’t just for the health conscious. Meat loving restaurants like 12 Bones and #instaworthy donuts from Vortex Donuts are always packed with foodies.

From Spanish tapas at Chef Katie Button’s Curate and mouth watering barbecue at Buxton Hall, there are often more Asheville restaurants to choose from than number of meals in the day.

Christina Riley – NC Tripping

Poke Bowl is a traditional dish from Hawaii with diced raw fish. It can be served as a main course or an appetizer and comes in various forms and seasonings. The most popular fish is the aku, which is skipjack tuna. Some common ingredients include sea salt, soy sauce, inamona, sesame oil, limu, seaweed, and chili pepper.

The modern form of Poke Bowl has been popular in the Hawaiian Islands since the 1970s, but it has been eaten in various forms for many generations.

Hawaii is one of the best places to visit in the US for foodies and some other dishes that you shouldn’t miss to eat includes Poi, Kalua, Lomi-Lomi Salmon, and Laulau. The Kalua pig is a very tasty roasted pork dish that has been cooked since ancient Hawaiian times.

Nowadays, Poke Bowl also available in many cities in the US and some modern versions have been influenced by Japanese and other Asian cuisines.

Poke Bowls can be found in supermarkets in Hawaii or designated restaurants around the islands that have specialized themselves in serving Poke Bowls with different seasonings and styles.

It’s relatively cheap, especially in the supermarkets, and the bowls often come with rice. Foodland is a great place to go for fresh Poke Bowls.

Alexander Waltner – Swedish Nomad

Berkeley, CA

There was a time when everyone in the U.S. seemed to know that Chez Panisse, in Berkeley, California, was the birthplace of California cuisine . 

It had a corner on the market for a long time.  Still, when foodies come to town, including to San Francisco across the Bay from Berkeley, they want to make a stop here for a stellar meal.

Among the many super famous visitors are Paul McCartney, the Dalai Lama, and former President Barack Obama. There is often a limo out front.

Once Chez Panisse is checked off the list, it is time to visit some of the other famous places in the Gourmet Ghetto area that surrounds the restaurant.

A cup of coffee at Peet’s Coffee & Tea (which in 1966 became the first business in the U.S. to import specialty coffees and dark-roast whole coffee beans) on the next block, and a slice of pizza across the street at The Cheese Board Collective (a long-time collectively-owned business that has the largest cheese selection in the West) are also de rigueur.

Carole Terwilliger Meyers – Berkeley and Beyond

Dallas has a lot going for it. It’s one of the major airline hubs in the USA, so you can easily get there from just about anywhere, and once you arrive there’s so much to do and see. 

When we visit we head straight to Trinity Groves in West Dallas to eat at Beto and Son for fresh and delicious locally-sourced Mexican Food .

Trinity Groves is a 40-acre master planned entertainment district neighborhood just across the Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge. Our friends live just a block away from the Restaurant Incubator where Beto and Son is located. 

Wildly successful restauranteur Philip Romano’s incubator program allows chefs and entrepreneurs to team up and open concept restaurants. It’s an attraction all on it’s own, and has grabbed a spot on Dallas’ Margarita Mile. 

At Beto and Son you can’t go wrong with the tacos, and I’d recommend doing the mix and match to try 3 of them.  I couldn’t get enough of the Gulf of Mexico Ceviche Tower; we probably ate it three times in a week. I didn’t try their award winning Liquid Nitrogen Margarita, but I saw it being prepared table side several times and was tempted to do it for the gram! 

Another food experience I wouldn’t want you to miss is the best grouper sandwich you will ever have, at Hillstone Dallas – Park Cities. Get it with a side of grilled artichokes! My mouth is watering just thinking about it!

Lizzie Lau – Lizzie Lau Travels

As a renowned foodie destination in the south , Memphis has so many restaurants to choose from. There are ones serving amazing barbeque, burgers fried in vintage grease, and desserts to die for.

You know you hit the jackpot when you find a restaurant that has a line out the door and it is a place that locals frequent. And in Memphis, there are several where you’ll see this.

There is the Central BBQ where you can get pulled pork sandwiches, brisket, baby back ribs, chicken wings, smoked sausage, and their famous barbeque nachos.

And there is Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken where you can get fried pickles, fried green tomatoes, and of course, fried chicken with baked beans, slaw, and the infamous slice of white bread.

If you aren’t sure of what to eat or where to go you can always sign up to do a food tour and explore more wonderful restaurants in the greater downtown Memphis. But, the best way to eat your way through a foodie destination is to wander around and go in the first place that smells good!

It may be underrated attractions wise but it sure is one of the top food destinations in the US .

Heather Raulerson – Raulerson Girls Travel

Minneapolis

The Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul (Minnesota) lie in the North Country where the growing season is short. That’s not necessarily a drawback. In Sweden, with a similar climate, they say the concentrated growing season intensifies flavors.

That might be one explanation for the adulation these cities garner from chefs and foodies.

In a recent Bloomberg magazine story, “Top Chefs Pick Favorite Cities Around the World for Great Restaurants,” Minneapolis was one of only two U.S. cities to make the list.

Skeptics expecting Midwest-bland meat and potatoes will be surprised at the diverse fare and the zesty attention to detail.

Asian cuisine, for example, is represented by everything from the French Vietnamese-influenced Ngon Bistro in St. Paul, to the casual, street food-inspired Hai Hai or the sophisticated Japanese comfort food of Zen Box Izakaya in Minneapolis.

Defying categorization, Young Joni, by James Beard awarded chef Ann Kim, serves up heavenly cauliflower, woodfired pizza, Korean short ribs, Thai skewers, and lovely salads. Young Joni’s discreet Back Bar tips visitors to the fabulous cocktail scene in these twin towns, too.

It helps that restaurants in the Twin Cities are supported by an active theater and arts scene, a health-conscious population, and a bundle of corporate headquarters peppered with top notch creative agencies.

Still, for those hankering for traditional Minnesota fare, Twin Cities restaurants deliver walleye (a sweet freshwater lake fish), nutty wild rice (hand harvested by Native Americans), tater tots and hot dishes, or a steaming Jucy Lucy (sic; a cheese-stuffed burger).

Anything goes, because this is where chefs–international and local–bring it all back home.

With various traditional meals and a feature in a big Magazine, Minneapolis is undoubtedly one of the best travel destinations for food lovers in the US.

Kristin Henning – TravelPast50.com

Nantucket, MA

Off the southern coast of Cape Cod, you’ll find Nantucket thirty-six miles out to sea. Here the locavore movement took hold well before it was a trend in the food industry.

Ingredients that are not farmed or foraged need to be imported. Scallops, clams, lobster, chocolate covered strawberries and smoked blue fish pate are a few Island specialties.

The abundance of seafood from the surrounding waters opens the door to menu preparations that could compete anywhere in the world.

Chefs take the winter months to travel off island and brings back inspiration from around the globe. That worldly influence can be seen on menus and contributes to the unique flavors of the island .

Local farms provide many of the vegetables; the tomatoes and corn from Bartlett Farm have developed a cult following. The one dish that will leave a lasting impression are the fresh scallops.

Chefs on The Grey Lady know the secret to a caramel crust on the outside and a melt in your mouth goodness interior that will leave a memory long after the ferry has rounded the lighthouse for your trip back to the mainland.

The Pearl, Nautilus and Straight Wharf are three of my favorites.

Alison Abbott – Green With Renvy

Naples, Florida

Naples, Florida, in the southwestern corner of the Sunshine State near the Florida Everglades is one of the most popular vacation spots in Florida.

In this Italy-inspired tropical town , high society and small town charm still go together like seafood and beer.

Add in the other fun things to do in Naples like world-class shopping, excellent white sand beaches, year round outdoor fun, and a vibrant restaurant scene, and it’s easy to see why Naples is one of America’s top foodie destinations .

Being right on the Gulf of Mexico means local food specialties like fresh Gulf shrimp, oysters, snapper, grouper, and other saltwater fish dominate the menu.

But the one dish everyone looks forward to each season are fresh Florida stone crabs. Stone crab fishing is a sustainable industry in Florida — by law, only one stone crab claw can be harvested at a time allowing it to grow back and delight us yet again!

There are so many great restaurants in Naples whether it’s high style or low, but for the freshest seafood several restaurants offer excellent options.

Captain & Krewe Seafood Market is ultra casual with fresh raw bar options. Bayside Seafood Grill in Venetian Village is the perfect waterfront location for fresh seafood. Most seafood restaurants have stone crabs in season, so don’t leave town without tasting a few!

With good food coupled with beautiful weather, Naples truly deserves to be on this list of best US cities for foodies.

Lori Sorrentino – Travlinmad.com

Nashville has been a foodie destination in the USA for a long time – pulling in travelers with the hot chicken, barbecue and meat and three options. But, is Nashville one of the top food cities in the US for vegans ? Believe it or not, yes!  

The vegan restaurants in Nashville are something worth talking about and traveling for. Nashville has been rapidly growing for a while now and with that, more and more restaurants are opening every day.

Make sure to try the hot “chicken” at The Southern V, the cupcakes at Sunflower Bakehouse, the lentil walnut cheeseburger at Avo, and pretty much everything at The Behive.

In between eating your way through the city, stay caffeinated at all the amazing local coffee shops, listen to live music every night, check out the Lower Broad nightlife scene, and take a hike in one of the many amazing city parks.

Ashley Elizabeth Hubbard – Wild Hearted

Portland OR

Portland is a food mecca ! The gastronomic scene is hot, hot, hot here with a vibrant food truck culture, excellent craft brew scene, and an emphasis on locavore ingredients from the Pacific Northwest.

Did you know that James Beard , the famous American chef and cookbook author was born in Portland? Besides The James Beard Foundation Awards are annual awards recognize culinary professionals in the United States.

In fact, many of today’s top chefs in Portland got their start at one of the local food carts, where diners then followed them to their fresh, organic farm-to-table restaurants . That’s just one reason why you can find more than 500 food carts dotting the city of Portland.

Whether you’re a carnivore, vegan, or gluten-free, you’ll find some of the best eats here ever.

Be sure to check out Andina, a wine and tapas bar with incredible Peruvian food, conveniently located downtown. For the best Indian buffet on a budget, head immediately to Swagat Indian Cuisine.

To steep yourself in Portland history, head to the iconic Goose Hollow Inn, owned by controversial former Mayor Bud Clarke. They serve the best Ruben sandwich on the planet!

Christina Román – Explore Now or Never

San Diego, CA

From açaí bowls to jampacked burritos, tiki bars to beachfront eateries, San Diego’s culinary stockpile is a window into San Diego’s sunny, seaside soul.

With its close proximity to Mexico, the ocean, and Los Angeles, the local menu is bursting with the best in Cali-Mex, seafood, and trendy, instaworthy dishes.

Make a pilgrimage to the original shop of Oscars Mexican Seafood, located on 703 Turquoise Street, and score a plate of smoked fish tacos. They also have fried fish tacos but the staff, who originally hail from Tijuana, all agree the smoked fish is where its at. If you have room, order a cup of their ceviche.

Another neighborhood in San Diego that foodies cannot miss out on is Little Italy, which has some of the best Italian food from this side of the Atlantic.

There are plenty of restaurants that will catch your eye but Civico 1845 will not disappoint. Not only is their pasta perfectly ‘al dente,’ but the extensive menu is also very accommodating to vegans and gluten-free eaters, which is a rarity in the world of Italian cuisine.

And did you know? San Diego is also known as the “Capital of Craft Beer.” With over 150 breweries to choose from, chances are you’ll be leaving SoCal with a belly full of good food and good booze.

Millette – The Next Somewhere

Named the first UNESCO City of Gastronomy in the United States , Tucson, Arizona should be a bucket list destination for any Mexican food lover.

Being that Tucson is just 60 miles from Mexico, it should come as no surprise that you’ll find some of the best Mexican food north of the border!

From super authentic taco stands to fine Mexican dining, Tucson does it all, and they do it well. One of the best things to do in Tucson is to eat! Be sure to eat as many tacos as possible, and sample the Sonora Dog, a specialty from this region.

Here are a few notable Tucson restaurants :

• Los Tacos Apson: This no-frills taco shop is one of the best places to get authentic Mexican food for super cheap. And be sure to load up at their generous salsa bar!
• El Güero Canelo Restaurant or BK Carne Asada & Hot Dogs: These rival restaurants both claim to serve the best Sonora Dog, a local favorite made with a bacon-wrapped hot dog, pinto beans, onions, tomato, salsa verde, mayo and mustard, all stuffed into a sweet bun. Choose one or try them both to compare!
• Mi Nidito: A town staple, Mi Nidito is a good spot for late-night eats, huge portions and a fun yet casual atmosphere. It is also famous for being a place in which Bill Clinton once dined!
• Cafe Poca Cosa: If it’s more of a refined atmosphere you’re after, this chic Mexican eatery will be just what you’re looking for. With an ever-changing menu, their dishes are fresh and inventive.

Katie – Two Wandering Soles

No Scottsdale, Arizona Guide is complete without a list of the ultimate foodie stops . Scottsdale is home to some incredible restaurants. You can experience everything from authentic Mexican cuisine, steak houses as well as organic, local and seasonal dining cuisine. 

For the ultimate modern Latin cuisine, make sure to visit the famous Mission restaurant. It is worth visiting just for the unique interior of Himalayan salt block walls. Two must things to order is one of their signature margaritas and their freshly made tableside guacamole. 

If you are looking for new-American comfort food ; then Citizen Public House will delight you with dishes derived from distinctly foreign places. It is conveniently located in Old Town Scottsdale.

I would recommend the original chopped salad. Layers of smoked salmon, couscous, Asiago cheese, arugula, pepitas, marinated tomatoes, dried super sweet corn and currants in a creamy buttermilk herb dressing. It is the most delicious salad I have ever had. The fall off the bone, fair-trade short ribs are coffee-rubbed with a parsnip puree and dried cherry bbq sauce. 

Diana – Diana’s Healthy Living

Philadelphia

Philadelphia is known as the city where the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were signed. But it’s also the cheesesteak capital of the USA .

No wonder, the iconic beefy sandwich was invented here and you’ll find a cheesesteak shop around every corner. The original creators, two brothers, now run the restaurants Pat and Geno but my personal favorite is Jim’s Steaks.

But you can’t just eat cheesesteaks all day long when Philadelphia has so much to offer for foodies. Hip cafes, vegan places and international food are lining the streets in the city center but the first place you should check out is Reading Terminal Market.

Located right next to the coach station and in the fashion district, it’s the ideal place to grab a quick bite or sit down for a whole. There’s so much choice here and the food is excellent. It’s always busy so avoid typical lunch hours if you can and opt for brunching or late lunches, for instance.

What can you try here? More cheesesteak, New Orleans cuisine, healthy veggie shots, watermelon smoothie, fresh fruits and more! Do get a map at the door so you find your way around because it can be rather overwhelming.

Annemarie – Travel on the Brain

Oklahoma Cit y

A few years ago, Oklahoma City wasn’t really a place you traveled to for food. However, it has now become one of the best vacation spots in the US for foodies .

It’s an underrated foodie city and I’m not just saying that because I spent a major portion of my life there. Oklahoma City is now a place where there’s a restaurant that suits everyone’s preferences.

The culinary options there also have a big international influence. For example, there are so many delicious Vietnamese, Mexican, Italian Indian, Thai, Japanese restaurants, plus more. The brunch scene there is also incredible.

You won’t go wrong with anything there, but you have to try steak and barbecue when visiting. These are the two staple items. The meat is one of a kind and it’s flavorful and tender.

The best barbecue restaurant is Iron Star. They serve everything from pulled pork to brisket to smoked chicken. The best restaurant to get steak is Cattleman’s Steakhouse. The prices are affordable and the steak just melts in your mouth.

Disha Smith – Disha Discovers

Tempe, a college town near Phoenix, is not just well known for Arizona State University, but it also has an amazing brew and food scene which makes it one of the US cities with the best food.

Four Peaks Brewery is one of the best bars in the Phoenix area and is famous for delicious eats along with its amazing beers. There are always seasonal beers on tap, but the most popular are the Kilt Lifter and the white ale. They serve a variety of food including the typical bar food, but they also have some eats that are inspired by Germany and the Southwest.

No visit to Arizona is complete without some Southwestern food !

Ghost Ranch, in Tempe, is the best place to grab some for dinner. Their famous Aztec cake is their take on a lasagna, they layer up corn tortillas with loads of chicken and cheese.

It is unique and absolutely delicious! Their prickly pear cocktails are also amazing, you simply must try their prickly pear froze margarita, a unique combination of a prickly pear frozen margarita with rose.

Be sure to visit Tempe, Arizona for some of the best eats in Arizona !

Constance Panda – The Adventures of Panda Bear

Milwaukee, Wisconsin

One of my favorite places for a foodie’s getaway in the US , is Milwaukee in Wisconsin.

Milwaukee, the state’s finance and commercial capital, is cool but for some reason it’s not on the radar of many travelers. That makes it the perfect place for those who aren’t a fan of large tourist crowds.

Milwaukee is particularly suited for those who are into food and museums. Indeed, Milwaukee with its large German immigration background in the previous centuries has some of the best, heartiest food in the US .

Some of the most typical food to eat is Friday Fish Fry, cheese curds and fruit dumplings.

I highly recommend the Lakefront Brewery for authentic Wisconsin atmosphere and food. For legendary cheese curds I recommend the Clock Shadow Creamery.

If you are wondering where to stay in Milwaukee , I recommend getting a lakefront hotel in order to be close to the best restaurants in town or enjoy a relaxing hotel with hot tub in room .

Paulina – Paulina on the Road

Read next: 10 Best Hotels with Hot Tub in Room in Milwaukee, WI .

Missoula, Montana

Missoula Montana is one of the best foodie towns in America we’ve ever visited. The incredible variety, freshness, and creativity of the meals are second to none. Vegans, carnivores, and everyone in between will find plenty to enjoy.

For breakfast, you can start out simply with a cuppa and a crispy croissant from Bernice’s Bakery or tasty pastry at Le Petit Outre. If you’re big on breakfast build your own plate at The Catalyst Cafe or go for the hearty huckleberry pancake at The Shack.

Choices for lunch range from delicious burgers at Top Hat, awesome nachos at Tamarack Brewing, wood-fired pizza and great salads at Biga Pizza, or downright messy and delicious bbq at Notorious P.I.G.

There are lots of ethnic spots dishing up authentic food that make a great dinner. The Greek Pastry Shop, El Cazador Mexican, Five On Black Brazilian Grill, and Iza Asian Restaurant are just a few. Enjoy Italian treats like house-made pasta at Caffe Dolce or soak up the old west vibe at The Montana Club.

In the mood for an adult beverage? Try Highlander Brewing Company, Plonk Wine, Montgomery Distillery, or Stockman’s Bar for a little fun with your drink.

Missoula is a college town with plenty of great food trucks too. Finish off with a Big Dipper Ice Cream or an amazing vegan Veera donut.

As beautiful as this Montana town is, you’ll also never go hungry with its huge array of delicious foods ready to satisfy your appetite.

Diana Laskaris – Food Travelist

Whilst the area north of San Francisco is famed for the wine making regions of Napa and Sonoma, where vines can be seen across the rolling hills of the area.

However, there is one area just across the bay of San Francisco, overlooking the Golden Gate Bridge, where it is its produce and restaurant scene which truly sells itself.

The county of Marin is dotted with artisan producers to explore along with a beautiful landscape and striking coastline.

You can take a tour with the fantastic Food & Farm Tours , kicking off in the hub town of Point Reyes Station to check out the likes of Bovine Bakery, with fresh pastries and cakes, Cowgirl Creamery, with an array of cheese and Brickmaiden Bread, where a freshly baked sourdough awaits.

Following this, head out to the coastline to try some unique sparkling mead and then sit on the shoreline and tuck into a platter of fresh and barbecued oysters – the ultimate way to enjoy this part of California!

Laura – The Travelling Stomach

Little Rock, Arkansas

Little Rock is surprisingly one of the culinary vacations in the United States located in the south of the country. Arkansas’s capital manages to mix the best of southern cuisine with innovative places to eat and impressive microbreweries.

The city has a huge range of award-winning restaurants , independent cafes and happening bars to choose from. You can definitely spend a good few days eating and drinking your way around town, it’s one of the most fun things to do in Little Rock .

There’s a real sense of foodie collaboration in the city as well, with many local producers working together to offer each other’s products. For example, Loblolly Creamery offers a ‘Bourbon Peacan’ flavour ice cream that contains bourbon from the nearby ‘Rock Town Distillery’.  

Some foodie treats you should definitely try when in town include a ‘Root Benny’ brunch from the Root Cafe, the legendary ‘sugar cookies’ from Community Cafe and an open-faced Fried Italian Bologna & Egg from Lost Forty Brewing.

Dependent on your budget and tastes there is a whole range of places to eat in Little Rock . Some of my favorite places to eat in Little Rock include Gus’s World-Famous Fried Chicken and One Eleven at the Capital.

Pip Jones – Pip and the City

Boise, Idaho

Idaho, in general, is mistakenly overlooked in American tourism, especially in the foodie realm. “But what’s in Idaho anyway?? PoTatOeS?!?” Skeptics may ask. WELL HERES THE SCOOP.

Yes, there are potatoes. A LOT OF POTATOES. So let’s start there. Idaho is the potato capitol of America , so you best believe they are serving up all KINDS of starchy goodness.

At Boise Potato Co, the fries are the main entree, and the choices are endless with five different types of potatoes, four different cuts, and over fifteen fry sauces! And it helps that the side of burger (with multiple patties – including Vegan!) are delicious too.

Boise has fantastic weather in the warmer months, and also the largest Baske community in the United States , so you can indulge in the most authentic Baske cuisine on one of Boise’s many beautifully decorated outdoor patios.

After, head to 8th street to catch a pint or two at a local brewery and taste some of the country’s best craft brews (no one does em like the northwest!). And since the town is so darn walkable, treat your tastebuds to Boise’s famed dessert: Butter Cake.

While Boise is known for its potatoes (and for good reason, they’re delicious!), it is an amazing foodie destination for American classics – including Native American restaurants like Mist’Delish.

Kay – The Awkward Traveller

Charleston, SC

There is no shortage of amazing food in Charleston. Already known to visitors as an historic jewel of the South, Charleston has developed a reputation for being a foodie destination in the US too.

Favorite Lowcountry dishes such as Shrimp and Grits and She Crab Soup are sought after by visitors, while locals eagerly await the seasons for oysters and soft shell crabs.

With an abundance of fresh local seafood and produce , chefs throughout Charleston rely on local purveyors to showcase the best the area has to offer. In fact, it has become a bit of a prideful joy to announce the local farms, fishermen, and grit mills sourced for their creations. This is particularly evident in restaurants like Husk which creates modern dishes inspired by southern tradition.

That’s not to say all the food in Charleston is rooted in the south. The menu at FIG, which stands for Food Is Good, is inspired by clean bold flavor combinations that feel more European than southern.

Another popular choice, Butcher and Bee, creates an “ever-changing menu of honest to goodness eats” that are as innovative at the restaurant space. And Asian favorite, Xiao Bao Biscuit serves multicultural Asian food in a trendy converted gas station.

And of course, don’t forget about the little hole in the wall restaurants known for their rich, honest home cooking. The fried chicken and collard greens at Martha Lou’s Kitchen are some of the best in Charleston.

And at Nana’s Seafood and Soul, devotees follow their Instagram feed to know when to order their famous garlic crabs.

Julien Casanova – Cultures Traveled

Flushing, NY

Who would think that an unassuming little neighborhood at the end of NYC’s #7 train, with a funny name like “Flushing” is actually one of the best foodie destinations in the US ?  Well, it is!

Flushing, in the NY borough of Queens, was originally settled by the Dutch, as was the rest of New York City . The town is named after an important Dutch harbor.

In the past couple of decades, the neighborhood has become a destination for Asian immigrants to settle. These hardworking immigrants have enriched and revitalized the once sleepy town and converted it into New York’s largest Chinatown . Although they call it a Chinatown, it really should be called “Asiatown” because the immigrants come from all over Asia.

Fortunately for NY residents, the immigrants brought with them all their culinary skills and established restaurants all over the city. You can walk down any street and sample cuisines from every Asian country . Some of my favorite restaurants include Mr. Chan’s, Pho Metro and Teriyaki One.    

Talek Nantes – Travels with Talek

Kansas City

We think one of the best foodie destinations in the US is definitely Kansas City, Missouri. And although they are known for their BBQ, there are a lot of unique places to eat in Kansas City which offer a variety of cuisines.

Like we mentioned though, Kansas City takes their BBQ serious and one of the best places to eat it is at Q39. They’re considered to be one of the best BBQ restaurants in Kansas City , but also one of the top restaurants in the city. We had their Brisket with Burnt Ends and they were delicious.

Another great restaurant in Kansas City is Beer Kitchen. They offer a large beer selection, from local breweries and all over the world. They also have a vegan menu and many vegetarian options, which isn’t always easy to find in a city known for its beef.

During our visit, we had the Creekstone Short Rib with cheddar grits and braised kale. The cheddar grits were amazing and went really well with the short ribs.

We would have never thought to put short ribs and grits together, but these unique dishes are what make Kansas City so special and a great foodie city .

Vicky Sosa – Buddy The Traveling Monkey

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Sara Rodríguez

A passionate traveler with a mission: Help you plan your next trip easily and enjoy it to the fullest.

In this travel blog you will find everything you need to get inspired and organize your next adventure. Read more about my story here.

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2 responses to “35 best foodie destinations in the us”.

Living in a foodie town (New Orleans) it is always hard to go on a vacation and be disappointed by food! I’m going to save this list for some future foodie vacations!

Great post! Thanks for the info, can’t wait to visit! Feel free to check mine as well Travel to Morocco :)

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Eat your way through these 8 unexpected US foodie destinations

Mar 22, 2022 • 10 min read

The bone-in beef ribeye steak at Snake River Grill in Jackson, Wyoming © Lindley Rust / Snake River Grill

When you look at the most popular foodie destinations across the US, the usual city names come to mind — New York , Los Angeles , Miami , Chicago . But if you’re traveling in search of great eats in 2022, you’ll be better off heading to other parts of the country to check out one of these 8 underrated foodie destinations instead. 

From surprising places to find some of the country’s best food made by immigrants to the growing farm-to-table movement as it mixes with traditional cuisine, these cities have it all. Whether you’re munching on chocolate from celeb-fave DeBrand Fine Chocolates in quickly growing Fort Wayne, Indiana , or discovering why the Pueblo chile makes Pueblo, Colorado , you’re sure to get a taste of something new and unexpected. So pack up your suitcase, save this list and head out to discover the foodie destinations you never thought you’d love. 

1. Birmingham, Alabama

The one thing not to miss: You can’t head down South without trying some barbecue, and you certainly can’t visit Alabama without trying their unique take on BBQ. Head to SAW’s Soul Kitchen — considered the best barbecue in America by some. The Sweet Tea Fried Chicken Sandwich is something to write home about. Try it or The Colonel (which also includes pimento cheese and red tomato), and you won’t be sorry. 

This southern city not only has a classic ‘Bama take on BBQ but recent growth and an influx of diverse talent have led to Birmingham becoming one of the top foodie destinations below the Mason-Dixon line. Talented chefs have access to ingredients from fertile farmlands, the Appalachian foothills and the nearby Gulf of Mexico. Here you can find Highlands Bar & Grill — temporarily closed but reopening in 2022 — for a delectable seasonally-inspired menu that changes daily. Meanwhile, go to Hot & Hot Fish Club for tasty Gulf seafood and El Barrio for must-have Mexican tostadas. If you’re craving a fancy night out, then Chez Fonfon is the place to go for the best French fare outside of New Orleans . 

Expert tip: Don’t miss out on ordering dessert at Highlands Bar & Grill . Dolester Miles, who has worked there for over 30 years, was named Outstanding Pastry Chef by the James Beard Foundation in 2018.

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2. Pueblo, Colorado

The one thing not to miss: Slovenian food! Yes, really. Although you’d never guess it, Pueblo is home to Bojon Town, a tight-knit neighborhood of Slovenian immigrants who came here in the early 20th century. The must-try dish is potica, which you can find at Janessa’s Gourmet and other eateries around town. 

This former steel mill town seems like an unlikely candidate for a foodie destination but thanks to the famed Pueblo chile, it’s worth the trip. The Pueblo green chili, a Colorado staple, can be found at some of the best Mexican restaurants across town — Lobo’s Tacos and Tequila (try the Korean fire taco), Tacos Navarro (try anything with their specialty carnitas) and Mill Stop Cafe (don’t miss the stuffed sopapillas). But you can also find some of the famous green chili at Brues Alehouse, located on the Pueblo River Walk. They’re known for their brews and burgers, so don’t forget to order a drink with your lunch. Surprisingly, even vegans will be welcomed at Brues, so don’t shy away if you have veggie-loving friends. 

Expert tip: Be prepared to wait for a table at Mill Stop Cafe, but it’s well worth the significant portions and great prices. For an extra special treat, head here for brunch and have the delectable huevos rancheros. 

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3. Traverse City, Michigan

The one thing not to miss: You can’t head to this lakeside town without having some lakeside seafood. For the best views and best fish in the city, go to Boathouse Restaurant. This French-inspired seafood restaurant has locavores in love. The can’t-miss dish is definitely the Lake Michigan walleye entree. When in Rome, right? 

Situated on Lake Michigan, you might not realize that this Northern Michigan city is known for both its year-round outdoor activities as well as its bustling and diverse dining scene. Head to The Cook’s House for sustainable, locally-sourced fare in an intimate setting. The oyster mushroom soup and braised rabbit are particular favorites. Meanwhile, Trattoria Stella serves up classic Italian fare while Sleder’s Family Tavern (open since 1882) has sandwiches and bar food with a Midwestern twist. The Sleder burger and Buffalo burger are particular favorites. 

Expert tip: Don’t leave Traverse City before having something sweet. Specifically, a Michigan Montmorency cherry dessert from Grand Traverse Pie Company . But if cherries aren’t your thing, there are plenty of pies with local berries as well. 

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4. Greenville, South Carolina

The one thing not to miss: Although the origin of the classic banana cream pie is hotly contested, there is no doubt that the white chocolate cream pie at Soby’s in downtown Greenville is an iconic dish if there ever was one. 

This upstate city has a thriving cultural and entertainment scene, and now food is on the list too. Greenville has a wide variety of cuisines, starting with the Belgian-inspired haunt The Trappe Door. Try any one of the moules frites (mussels pots served with homemade fries) but don’t forget to ask your waiter for their best beer pairing recommendation. Meanwhile, The Lazy Goat has Mediterranean food with some of the best paellas around. Kitchen Sync (try the shrimp burger or one of the other shrimp dishes) and The Anchorage (go for the tasting menu but be ready to unbuckle your belt) have truly inspired New American cuisine mixing with local ingredients. 

Expert tip: You may have gone to Soby’s for the can’t-miss dessert, but you’ll want to start with some of their New Southern cuisine, coupled with their award-winning wine list. Wine lovers will delight in the many options available on their 5000 bottle list. 

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5. Jackson Hole, Wyoming

The one thing not to miss: Why should you travel to Wyoming for pizza? Because the steak tartare pizza at Snake River Grill is a shockingly exquisite dish. This memorable pizza will have you telling all of your friends and family to come try it ASAP. 

You would probably never imagine that a small town situated just below Grand Teton National Park would be one of the top foodie destinations in the West, but “Jackson” (as locals call it) certainly lives up to the title. Start with a visit to Persephone Bakery for some of the best French-style pastries on this side of the Mississippi. Although any one of their breakfast treats is fantastic, try the egg sandwich on a croissant or the bread pudding French toast (also made with croissants) for an extra special treat. Other must-visit restaurants include Old Yellowstone Garage for homemade Italian eats (the Rocky Mountain pappardelle made with elk bolognese is a classic) and Bin22 for premier wine coupled with some of the best tapas you’ll find. 

Expert tip: Don’t leave cowboy country without making a stop at Cowboy Coffee Co. Order the black eye coffee (a mix of cold brew and espresso shots) if you’re heading out for a day outdoors or simply need an extra-strong pick-me-up. 

Jackson Hole’s 8 best hikes bring wildflowers, river crossings and baby moose

6. Waco, Texas

The one thing not to miss: You simply must head to Clay Pot Restaurant for delectable Vietnamese food that was started by the Le family in the 1980s. It’s hard to pick just one or two favorites but of course, you have to try their Clay Pot dish — a dish served in (duh!) a traditional clay pot. 

This college town was recently put on the foodie map by Chip and Joanna Gaines of HGTV’s Fixer Upper. The couple now owns Magnolia Market —a shopping complex that houses restaurants such as the Asian-American Club Sandwich and their own Magnolia Table. But Waco’s growth in the culinary scene isn’t just tied to the Gaines’ success. George’s Restaurant is a local favorite serving the Big O (an 18oz beer) and a chicken fried steak you won’t want to miss. Jake’s Texas Tea House, which features car shop decor since “Texas tea” refers to oil, has homemade dishes and desserts such as the buttermilk pie (get it!). And you can’t visit Texas without eating Mexican food, so head to Taqueria El Crucero and get the oso burrito smothered in their extraordinary oso sauce. 

Expert tip: To taste classic Texas barbecue, head to Jasper’s BBQ . Initially opened in 1915, this restaurant has all the brisket, pork ribs and sausage you can eat. Just be sure to go early as they sell out of everything daily — even their surprisingly good coleslaw. 

The most unmissable road trips in Texas for beaches, BBQ and big open skies

7. Fort Wayne, Indiana

The one thing not to miss: Fort Wayne is known for its mix of American and European history, which is why JK O’Donnell’s Irish Ale House is a can’t-miss eatery. The classic pub fare you must order includes the fish ‘n chips and the JK chips, which you can get with garlic aioli, whiskey wing or curry sauce. 

Fort Wayne — and nearby Northeast Indiana — has been growing faster than any other state in the US, thanks to the city’s high quality of life and low cost of living. With more young people moving to the region thanks to new job opportunities, the restaurant scene is booming too. Check out Club Soda for delicious steaks, strong cocktails and some jazz. Baker Street Steakhouse is another carnivore favorite in an elegant dining room, with the ribeye being a favorite. When you want something else, try Paula’s on Main for seafood that could not be any fresher. The almond walleye and Maryland crab cakes are some of the better go-to’s but you really can’t go wrong with any of their entrees. 

Expert tip: You’ll find some of the best chocolate in the US at Fort Wayne’s DeBrand Fine Chocolates. Loved by celebrities like Demi Lovato and Jessica Simpson, their chocolate art boxes are the perfect treat to take home — or eat on the way back cause who wants to share good chocolate, amirite? 

Experience the Great Lakes on one epic road trip

8. Tupelo, Mississippi

The one thing not to miss: Who says you can’t have drool-worthy farm-to-table dishes that focus on all of the meats? This is where Kermit’s Soul Kitchen — formerly known as Kermit’s Outlaw Kitchen — comes in. Although the menu changes depending on livestock and game availability from local farmers, you can’t go wrong with whatever stew or chili they’re serving up. 

This northeast Mississippi town may be best known for being the birthplace of Elvis Presley , but these days the food scene is yet another reason to visit. Tupelo is a surprising foodie destination you can’t miss, serving up traditional and modern southern food. Here to combine your love of The King and food? Then head to Johnnie’s Drive-In to sit in Elvis’ original booth and try their dough burger. Sweet Tea & Biscuits Cafe has the Southern staples you love, including an excellent fried green tomato BLT. Just don’t forget the famous sweet tea, too. And if you’re looking for more carnivorous dishes after Kermit’s, visit their sister restaurant Neon Pig Cafe (a butcher shop, restaurant and market) for their smash burger — named one of the best burgers in America.  

Expert tip: For brews and live music fans, head to Blue Canoe . This funky joint declares itself “Tupelo’s home of original live music” and features some of the best pub grub in the state.

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Safety recommendations and restrictions during a pandemic can change rapidly. Lonely Planet recommends that travelers always check with local authorities for up-to-date guidance before  traveling during Covid-19

This article was first published August 2020 and updated March 2022

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The Top 30 Best Foodie Cities to Travel to in 2024

Travel and food go together like baguettes in Paris and bagels in New York, and the best foodie cities know this. When you travel, you’ll relish your trip more when you listen to locals about where to find the best bites in the area.

What do the best food cities have in common? It's simple: A pride in local traditions paired with dishes you’ll only find in these destinations. 

Below, you’ll find Cozymeals’ top 30 best foodie cities to visit — whether you’re in the mood for the best hot chicken in Nashville or a craft beer in San Diego.

Jump to Section

The Best Foodie Cities in the U.S.

The best foodie cities around the world.

1. Washington, D.C.

There’s more to Washington, D.C. than museums and monuments; it’s also one of the best foodie cities in the country. D.C.’s food scene has seen a farm-to-table renaissance, boasting slow-cured charcuterie, artisanal baked goods and some of the nation’s highest-regarded restaurants. 

Take your taste buds (and your toes) on a memorable stroll along Georgetown’s glittering waterfront, grabbing a bite in the countless chef-inspired eateries found in this historic area. Or, if you’re staying closer to the city’s core, check out the local food vendors at Eastern Market by the Capitol. They're especially perfect for low-key date ideas in D.C .   

2. Portland, ME 

Portland, Maine has emerged in recent years as one of the best foodie cities around, luring a bevy of young and imaginative chefs. This coastal city’s picturesque perch above the Atlantic Ocean affords its restaurants fresher-than-fresh seafood — including salty-yet-supple oysters, Maine lobster and juicy mussels. 

Easily driven to from Boston, Portland merits a weekend (or more) filled with brioche-cradled lobster rolls or cold-water oysters. 

3. Burlington, VT

Framed by rolling green mountains and the glistening waters of Lake Champlain, you’ll find one of the best foodie cities in Burlington, VT, which boasts a coterie of palate-pleasing bistros and crave-worthy cafés. 

Spend the afternoon wandering the boutique shops and farm-to-table eateries that line the pedestrian-friendly Church Street here. Be sure to nibble and nosh on dishes that honor Vermont’s farm flavors — sharp cheddar soup, maple-glazed pancakes or mulled apple cider in the fall months.   

4. Columbus, OH

Most famous for Ohio State University, Columbus has flourished as of late as one of the best foodie cities worthy of anyone’s attention. 

Whether you’re in the mood for hand-cured charcuterie or flaky croissants that Parisians would gladly gobble up, Columbus’ food scene vaunts farm-to-table cafés, local-owned bakeries and restaurants opened by the city’s immigrant communities. 

5. Savannah, GA

Where can you enjoy a Southern biscuit while strolling centuries-old magnolia trees crowned in blossoms? In Georgia’s southern jewel, Savannah, which is one of the best foodie cities in the U.S. 

Home to countless Victorian mansions, Savannah is also a paradise for anyone stirred by historic architecture paired with delectable eats. The nearby ocean makes the entire Savannah region, including the beach-framed Tybee and Jekyll islands, a dream destination for lovers of seafood. Savannah must-eats include she-crab stew, shrimp-and-grits and cornmeal-crusted fried oysters. 

6. Nashville, TN

Considered the Country Music capital of the U.S., Nashville has come into its own as one of the best foodie cities, producing inspired BBQ, its namesake Nashville hot chicken and creative Southern-inspired fare. 

Avoid the bourbon-fueled mayhem downtown and head instead to edgy East Nashville, where local coffee roasters and charming chef-inspired bistros like Butcher & Bee have sprouted up in the last decade, providing no end to delicious things to do in Nashville.

7. Seattle, WA

Framed by snow-capped Mt. Rainier in the distance, Seattle is one of the best foodie cities on the West Coast. Offering hungry travelers wild-caught seafood and the original Starbucks location, Seattle will leave you craving seconds and thirds. 

The Pike Place Market , overlooking the dazzling Elliot Bay, is a delicious place to start your tasting tour of Seattle and also a very scenic spot for a date idea in Seattle . Here, you can watch fishmongers carve up ruby-red wild salmon or head to nearby Top Pot Doughnuts for a yeasty treat. Foodies should also consider a Seattle food tour to explore the best bites in the city.

8. Denver, CO

As Colorado’s mile-high city, Denver foods belong to an ever-evolving culinary scene, featuring classic cocktails served in retro decor, elegant French bites and sizzling Sichuan noodle dishes. 

The city’s main train terminal, Union Station, has been attracting food-loving travelers since its recent renovation. Here, you might shop for a read at Tattered Cover Bookstore and then wolf down bone marrow brûlée at Mercantile Provisions. For a more relaxed way to explore one of the best foodie cities, head to the River North (RINO) district — home to coffee roasters, craft breweries and eye-popping street murals. 

9. Chicago, IL

Chicago is whatever food fantasy you want it to be — from pierogi in a Ukrainian Village deli to a 3 a.m. “Chicago dog” by Wrigley Stadium. Home to deep-rooted immigrant communities, Chicago vaunts no uniform food culture, which makes it one of the best foodie cities to explore.

In South Chicago’s Pilsen district, you can nosh on Mexican street tacos or tender steamed tamales. In Uptown’s Vietnamese enclave, you might slurp pho or bite into a crusty bahn mi. And, if you’re hankering Chicago-style deep dish pizza, indulge your cheesy cravings at Gino’s East. Looking for hip, eclectic fare? Don't miss out on exploring Wicker Park restaurants .

If you’re really feeling adventurous, you can explore the local food scene with help from an expert guide on a food tour in Chicago .

10. Milwaukee, WI

Beer, brats and... brioche? Milwaukee is one of the best foodie cities that mixes the old and the new, evidenced by traditional stick-to-your-bones German brauhaus fare being served on the same street as more of-the-moment farm-to-table eats. 

German and Eastern European immigrants left their imprint on this historic Wisconsin city — gifting beer lovers drafts served out of steins and hand-breaded schnitzel. For one of the best views in town, enjoy a glass of wine at the café housed inside the lakefront Milwaukee Museum of Art. 

11. San Diego, CA

Fish tacos. Nonna’s gnocchi. And beer, beer, beer. Yup, you’re in San Diego — SoCal’s always-sunny and ever-so-scrumptious spot for one of the best foodie cities in the country. 

San Diego foods are influenced by the cultures that put down roots in this beachfront town and the city’s historic fishing industry. For a life-changing fish taco in San Diego, skip the touristy Mexican joints in Old Town and trek instead to Ortiz’s Taco Shop or Taco’s Mimi.

In the bustling Little Italy neighborhood, you can enjoy a craft draft beer at Ballast Point Brewery before digging into a plate of pasta (served straight from a cheese wheel!) at the superb Monello restaurant. 

12. Asheville, NC

If you’re looking for craft brews and comforting bites, search no further than the charming mountain town of Asheville, NC, which holds its own as one of the best foodie cities to visit.

Nestled in the rolling Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville tempts travelers with more breweries per capita than any other U.S. city — you can enjoy over 100 local drafts! Frothy favorites of ours include Burial Beer Co. (try the Skillet Donut Stout), Big Mountain Ciderworks and Lookout Brewery (the Dark Town brown = yum). 

For sustenance with your suds, relish rustic fare at Rhubarb, which also vaunts a constantly-changing beer menu and ample list of local North Carolina cheeses.   

13. Los Angeles, CA 

Los Angeles’ city limits span a massive 469 square miles, covering sun-drenched canyons, cliff-framed beaches and innumerable ethnic enclaves. Whether you’re in the mood for the best brunch in Los Angeles or Koreatown restaurants that will delight your palate, LA is one of the best foodie cities that will leave you drooling for more. 

A must-stop in LA is the vast Los Angeles Farmers Market — founded in 1934 and hosting over 100 gourmet grocers and fresh food vendors. 

14. Berkeley, CA

While many travelers to the Bay Area stick to San Francisco, those in-the-know head to Berkeley, the birthplace of the now-ubiquitous California cuisine, for a taste of one of the best foodie cities.

Located in the sunnier East Bay, Berkeley hosts a “Gourmet Ghetto” that will charm the most demanding of foodies. This North Berkeley neighborhood houses Alice Water’s incomparable Chez Panisse — the original farm-to-table restaurant. For a less formal lunch, nosh alongside the Berkeleyites at Cheeseboard Pizza; the pie selection changes daily and spotlights locally-grown vegetables and quality cheeses, both Californian and imported. 

Another great way to savor the best neighborhood eateries, hot spots and hidden gems is on a food tour in the Bay Area . Food tours are a unique deep-dive into the best foodie cities, with expert insight from a local guide. 

15. Miami, FL

Rum. Empanadas. Ceviche. It’s not just sun-soaked beaches and jet-set elegance that define Miami, it’s also the culinary history here that make it one of the best foodie cities.

Whether you’re trying tostones in Little Havana or sipping cocktails at South Beach’s swank Sweet Liberty Drinks, Miami will make your mouth water. For a romantic date idea in Miami , La Mar (inside the waterfront Mandarin Oriental) has perfected Peruvian-Japanese cuisine — including succulent ceviches, astounding anticuchos and the charred-to-perfection catch of the day. 

16. Philadelphia, PA

Needlessly overshadowed by its bigger neighbors (NYC and DC), Philadelphia possesses a thriving restaurant scene all its own and definitely earns a spot on the list of best foodie cities. So, when you travel to Philadelphia, chow down on more than a touristy Philly cheesesteak. 

Food-inspired adventurers — especially those looking for a unique date idea in Philadelphia —  might peruse the vendors and restaurants at the historic Italian Market (open since the 1880s) or pomegranate-glazed lamb shank at Zahav. For a refreshing local try, dig your spoon in a “water ice” — a dessert you’ll only find in Philly that blends water, sugar and fruit juice into the granddaddy of Italian ice.

17. San Francisco, CA

With wine country to the north, ocean to the west and farm country down below, San Francisco is hands-down one of America’s best foodie cities. Whether you’re craving an artisanal sourdough loaf from Tartine Bakery or a Mission-style burrito from El Farolito, San Francisco has something for every palate — from street eats to Michelin-awarded elegance. 

For the best dim sum in San Francisco, skip the touristy Chinatown and head instead to Clement Street in the Richmond district. If you visit San Francisco on the weekend, you’d be remiss to miss the Ferry Building Farmers Market held each Saturday overlooking the Bay Bridge. 

And for a true gourmet taste of one of the best foodie cities in the country, you can’t go wrong with a food tour in San Francisco . It also makes a great date idea in San Francisco . Nothing beats bonding over good eats!

18. Austin, TX

When it comes to things to do in Austin , eating is always high on the list. In Texas’ capital, you can enjoy slow-smoked BBQ, $2 breakfast tacos and Japanese-style ramen. In the last decade, Austin has positioned itself as one of America’s best foodie cities, luring talented chefs from the East and West Coasts. 

For a farm-to-table meal, Dai Due is a meaty must — be sure to order the wild boar roast. For Texas-style BBQ (aka smoked brisket), check out Lambert’s Downtown. After a night partying in Austin’s dive bars, chow down at Joe’s Bakery (open since 1962) in East Austin; here you can nosh on a Tex-Mex breakfast taco with eggs, cheese and chorizo wrapped in warm flour tortillas.

19. Atlanta, GA

There’s more to appreciate in Atlanta than peach trees and Olympic torches — especially if you’re hungry. As one of the South’s biggest and best foodie cities, Atlanta boasts enviable eateries that run the gamut from hole-in-the-wall barbecue joints to sprawling modern food halls, making Atlanta foods some of the most diverse in the South, much less the U.S.

For Southern cooking your mee-maw would appreciate, check out the historic Mary Mac’s Tea Room. Lovers of Asian cuisine won’t be disappointed by the Buford Highway, a stretch just north of the city that abounds with authentic Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese and Indian restaurants and supermarkets.

20. New York City, NY 

There’s more than one manner of biting into the Big Apple, from twirling up tagliatelle on Staten Island to digging in to cheesecake in Brooklyn. One thing is for certain, and that’s that NYC is undoubtedly one of the best foodie cities in the world.

Feeding Manhattanites since 1997, Chelsea Market boasts a European-style promenade brimming with vital-making vendors like Buddakan (Asian fusion) and Tings (jerk chicken). In downtown Brooklyn, you can go back in time at Junior’s, creating classic cheesecakes since 1950. 

Up north in the Bronx, you’ll find old-school Italian eats along Arthur Avenue. Our chefs’ favorites here include family-run gems like Casa Della Mozzarella (fresh cheese made daily) and Calabria Pork Store (specializing in handmade salami). 

A great way to try the Big Apples’ feast of flavors is with a food tour in NYC that explores the city’s nom-worthy neighborhoods. Why settle for just one eatery when you’re visiting the best foodie cities? Whether you're looking for a culinary adventure in the incredible food halls in NYC or you're on a specific mission for the best dim sum in Chinatown, NYC , you will find what you seek and more. 

21. Boston, MA

Chowder. Pizza. Pubs. Boston foods pack a flavorful wallop worthy of a trip or three on your journey to visit the best foodie cities around.

For a bit of time travel, head to the Warren Tavern in Charlestown, a pub that opened in 1780. They serve up crave-able clam chowder and fresh-shucked oysters. To sample some of the  best pizza in Boston,  head to Boston’s North End — the city’s Little Italy —  for a pizza fired in an 80-year-old oven at Regina’s. (You can also try different North End pizza on one of several food tours in Boston .) 

Any trip to Boston would be incomplete without satisfying your sweet tooth at Flour Bakery. The sticky buns will have you crying sugary tears.

22. Portland, OR 

Picking out the best foodie cities is about as easy as finding just one food to eat for the rest of your life. But, if you had to pick just one, Portland is a pretty good choice. 

Brimming with artisanal food makers and chefs devoted to sustainably-sourced dining, Portland offers food lovers too much tastiness for just one trip. Here, you might nosh on buttery-crumbly goodness at Pine State Biscuits. Or, you could chomp on ribs and cornbread at Podnah’s Pit BBQ.  

On the weekends, indulge in French-inspired brunch at Canard — try not to weep when you bite into the “duck stack,” meaning pancakes capped in a duck egg. For a wow-worthy sip, stop in at Teardrop Lounge, the bar that single-handedly launched the craft cocktail craze Portland is now famed for. You get to choose from classics, house originals and “friends” (concocted by guests or outside bartenders). It's a top-notch spot for a memorable date idea in Portland .

Portland, we promise, is one of the best foodie cities that will pamper your palate.

23. Montreal, Canada 

Poutine, maple syrup and bagels. There’s only one town where these three eats exist in scrumptious harmony: Montreal. And they’re waiting for you here in one of the best foodie cities in Canada.

As Quebec’s largest city, Montreal tickles your taste buds with an abundance of dishes locals love. Prime among these is poutine — French fries embellished with cheese curds and gravy (they’re addictive, trust us). 

In addition to French-Canadian classics like maple cream pie and tourtière (meat tart) making this one of the best foodie cities, visitors to Montreal should try the city’s pride and joy: Bagels. Unlike its New York cousin, Montreal-style bagels are smaller, sweeter and wood-fired. You’ll find these at Brossard Bagel. Another must-nosh dish here is a smoked-meat sandwich from Schwartz’s Deli.      

24. Toronto, Canada 

Canada’s biggest city, Toronto, sits scenically on Lake Ontario. There's never a shortage of things to do in Toronto , but — being home to a diverse array of ethnic enclaves and high-end restaurants  — the city will especially tempt taste-driven travelers with its status as one of the best foodie cities. 

Must-try dishes here include dumplings in Chinatown, gyros in Greek Town and pastizzi pastry in Little Malta. Toronto houses a huge Italian-Canadian community, so if you’re hungry for the perfect pizza or plate of pasta, head straight to Trattoria Taverniti or Marinella. The local chefs are also eager to teach, and cooking classes in Toronto are a fun way to learn how to make all of these specialties and more.

25. Paris, France

Baguettes. Escargot. Croissants. The mere mention of gay Paris evokes a tableau of délicieux dishes, which is why Paris may be the most beloved of all best foodie cities on this list. 

Along Paris’ elegant boulevards, you might nibble on chewy macarons at Pierre Hermé or sip a café au lait at the glass-roofed Closerie des Lilas. For a bite of Parisian pain (bread), stop by the family-owned Mahmoud M’Seddi’s Boulangerie (voted the best baguette in Paris in 2018) and much-praised Maison Pichard (in business for 20 years now). 

26. Quebec, Canada

Quebec’s capital will transplant you back in time, whether you’re there to explore the history, architecture or one of the best foodie cities. Built in1608, Quebec brims with meandering alleyways and castle-like stone walls. You’re not in France — you’re in Canada’s historic heart. 

So, when you travel to Quebec, do as the Quebecois cooks do and feast on farm-fresh fare. You might enjoy an epic brunch at the palatial Chateau Frontenac (the beef wellington here is swoonsville) or an ooh-la-la omelet at Le Continental. For rustic Quebecoise cuisine, lick your lips at Lapin Sauté — try the braised rabbit legs or smoked duck breast.

27. Barcelona, Spain

For one of the best foodie cities on this list, head to Barcelona. Both modern and medieval, Barcelona beckons food-loving tourists with tempting tapas, ocean-fresh seafood and chefs’ eclectic creations. 

Amble down the Ramblas, a pedestrian corridor facing the seaport. Along the way, stray over to Plaça San Jaume for tapas and on-tap cervezas at Craft Barcelona. No foodie can deny themselves lunch at La Boqueria — a covered open-air food market, brimming with tiny eateries and fresh food vendors. 

Craving seafood served with a Catalan accent? Choose from the countless straight-from-the-sea spots in the beachfront Barceloneta district. Your options are endless in one of the best foodie cities in Spain.

28. Rome, Italy

Italy’s capital city is one of the country’s best foodie cities, which is no small feat for a place as steeped in tasty traditions as Italy. 

When in Rome, it’s best to skip the tourist traps and nosh where the Romans do — grabbing a square slice at Pizzarium or twirling your fork around yolk-yellow carbonara at Felice a Testaccio. For the best tiramisu in Rome, head to Pompi — you can pick from the classic, banana and chocolate, pistachio or strawberry versions! If you'd rather have an experienced local guide to show you the ropes, opt for a food tour in Rome so you can all of the deliciousness with none of the hassle of navigating by yourself. 

29. Vancouver, Canada

Oysters, dumplings and blueberries — oh my! Welcome to British Columbia’s culinary crown jewel, where you’ll find one of the best foodie cities on this list.

With a mild climate and fertile coastal waters, Vancouver vies with other West Coast towns to be considered the best foodie cities in the Pacific, with an incredible array of eateries and cooking classes in Vancouver to choose from. When in town, there are two things you simply have to eat: Authentic Chinese cuisine and juicy oysters. 

In the city’s vibrant center, you can nosh on spicy lamb noodles at Xi’an Cuisine or enjoy Cantonese dim sum at Yue Restaurant. For a date idea in Vancouver , slurp down oysters and a bottle of wine at Blue Water Café. You could also book a food tour in Vancouver and have an experienced local guide introduce you to the best spots in town for for some very Vancouver victuals. 

30. Bologna, Italy 

One of the best foodie cities in Italy (Italians agree) is Bologna, tucked between Florence and Venice. Bologna’s maze of medieval stone streets house boutique food shops, homey trattorias and historic cafés. It also invented such drool-worthy Italian classics as tortellini, mortadella, fresh lasagna and, of course, Bolognese ragù. 

Spend an afternoon ducking into the delis and food stalls along Via delle Pescherie Vecchie. A great spot here for a plate of prosciutto and Parmigiano (served with a glass of Lambrusco wine) is the historic Salumeria Simoni. You can order straight from the deli or sit for a food-filled aperitivo drink. 

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With our 30 best foodie cities to travel to in 2022, the hardest decision is choosing which one to visit first. Which one are you most excited to explore this year?

Hungry for more ways to indulge in great eats? Whether you’re looking to hit the town visiting the best foodie cities or kick back at home with some of the best food movies , you’ll find plenty to explore with experience on Cozymeal. https://www.cozymeal.com/canada/toronto/cooking-classes

Discover the best in culinary experiences and products on Cozymeal: From in-person cooking classes to virtual cooking & mixology classes to private chef meals and top-rated cookware — from world-class chefs, mixologists & more.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT?

Join the conversation..

22 Apr 2024

DC is not larger than Philly, by land or by population. Philly's population is more than double that of DC. 712k in DC and 1.6 million in Philly.

29 Jun 2022

No New Orleans?? Lmao! This list seems a bit out of touch

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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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14 Best Foodie Destinations in the USA

Wondering which are the best foodie destinations in the USA? From San Francisco to New York City, here are fourteen cities you should add to your list.

If you are planning to tour famous cities in the United States, surely food is one of your top considerations for the trip. Fortunately, America has the best cities with a variety of great diners, drive-ins, and dives. Also, different cities mean different cultures and traditions. Now, why is cultural diversity important in food trips? 

America is a culturally diverse country, meaning people around the world migrated here to share their culture which includes food and infusing it with local traditions. 

So, are you ready to embark on a food trip? Here are the best foodie cities you need to visit in the U.S. 

1. San Francisco City, California

San Francisco , also known as ‘The City by the Bay,’ is one of the country’s top food destinations. The city offers a wide range of choices for foodies to try, from restaurants to food trucks. However, it’s also one of the most expensive cities, so make sure you have an extra budget when you visit this place. 

Additionally, San Francisco is well-known for its amazing seafood options, including giant fresh oysters and king crabs. Popular seafood chains like Red Lobster are also present in San Francisco. The city also offers a wide range of great and delicious pasta, pizza, and bread, such as sourdough.

2. Seattle City, Washington

If this is your first time visiting the place, then you’re in for an unforgettable coffee experience . Although Seattle is serious about coffee, it offers more than just a cup of joe. You can check out their mouth-watering selection of seafood such as oysters, salmon, crab, mussels, and geoduck clam. Then, wash it down with Seattle’s trademark beer or wine. 

A popular street food in Seattle is Seattle dog, which is topped with cream cheese and grilled onions. It’s almost as irresistible as the Seattle roll, which is sushi with salmon and cream cheese. So, now you see that Seattle has a thing for cream cheese, just like Philadelphia.

3. Philadelphia City, Pennsylvania

Philadelphia is widely popular for its original cream cheese, cheesecake, and of course, the all-time American favorite Philly cheesesteak. Aside from the iconic cheesesteak, Philadelphia is also famous for its roast pork sandwich and hoagie, which is a long sandwich stuffed with meat, different cheeses, and vegetables. 

If you have a sweet tooth, then don’t pass up the chance to try Philly’s cupcakes, soft pretzels, and water ice, which is finely shaved ice flavored with fruit or fruit syrup. 

4. Portland City, Oregon

Also known as P-Town, Portland is one of the fastest-growing foodie cities you need to consider in your next food trip. The city is well-known for its unfiltered microbreweries and farm-to-table dining experience. Like San Francisco, Portland also has a wide range of food trucks serving up delectable international cuisines such as Vietnamese fish sauce wings, Burmese tea leaf salad, and Khao Man Gai, a poached chicken dish served with rice, cucumber, and cilantro.  

Other gastronomic delights Portland is known for include clam chowder, steam burger, and curry brisket. For dessert, you can’t go wrong with raspberry donuts.  

5. Kansas City, Missouri

Do you want to try something grilled and smoked to perfection? Then you better head out to Kansas City or include it in your bucket list immediately. The city is well-known for its perfectly smoked barbecues, especially beef briskets, ribs , and burnt ends. Now, if you crave something sweet after a satisfying meal, you might want to try artisanal chocolates.

If you feel quite full from a hearty barbecue meal the night before, something light for breakfast like beignets might suit you well. Available in different flavors, beignets are served with powdered sugar on top.  

For snacks, cheese slippers come highly recommended. The name might sound peculiar, but just so you know what to expect, cheese slippers are hot cheese loaves piled with toppings like garlic and cheese curd with tomato or sweet corn with peaches.

6. Buffalo City, New York

Buffalo City is known by many nicknames, such as B-Town, The Cleve, or C-Town, but Queen City has more to offer than just creative nicknames. In fact, Buffalo has a wide range of authentic American dishes, such as broiled hot dogs, pizza, and of course, the ever-famous chicken wings.

Did you know that Buffalo City is hailed as the third best city when it comes to pizza? So, it’s not surprising if you fall in love with Buffalo-style pizza. Furthermore, other top food picks in Buffalo include peanut sticks, sponge candies, and handcrafted beer.

7. New York City, New York

The Big Apple is one of the best places when it comes to great food. It’s also considered the country’s culinary melting pot because of its diverse international cuisine all over the world, from the far east to all-original American. In addition, the Big Apple houses the country’s top-rated and luxurious Michelin-starred restaurants.  

You might also want to try the city’s famous desserts, such as the creamy and silky New York Cheesecake, crunchy and chocolatey palm-sized cookie, and more. That’s why the city is a perfect spot for travelers who crave sweets.

But of course, the city has more food options to offer, including hot and flaxy bagels, perfect for daily morning grinds and Sunday lunches. However, this may not be your typical bagel, as every food and dessert in New York is creatively crafted. Some bagels are topped with salad, while others have fish roe. It’s just a matter of preference.  

So, if you’re looking for adventure and a diverse cuisine selection, get ready and take a bite of the Big Apple.  

8. Houston, Texas

Like the Big Apple, Houston houses different cuisines across the globe. However, the city is most famous for its wide range of meaty goodness dishes. Why not? When you’re in Texas, meat is something you shouldn’t miss, such as Texas-style barbecue. It’s also why Space City is considered the heaven or the Mecca of meat lovers.  

Since we’re talking meat here, it would be best to have a dental check-up before traveling to Houston to prevent any potential problem such as a nasty toothache. 

However, as mentioned, the H-Town is also famous for its international cuisines. So, don’t be surprised if you see a lot of Vietnamese restaurants there. Since you’re there, you may want to try authentic Vietnamese dishes , such as Com Hen, which is a rice dish topped with baby clams, roasted peanuts, and sesame seeds.

But that’s not all. You may also experience the excellent fusion of southern and Asian cuisine, such as Asian and Cajun-spiced crawfish. Adding more to that seafood stop is the flavorful mix of mudbugs, which only the brave ones can try. If you think you’re brave enough, why not give it a shot? 

Furthermore, the most wonderful thing about Houston is the southern hospitality you can never experience anywhere. So, for a relaxing and welcoming food trip, take a visit to Space City.

9. New Orleans, Louisiana

Are you looking for a rocking party and a great experience? New Orleans is the way to go. This place has everything you need, from great food, refreshing cocktails, and festive music , perfect for locals and tourists who want to enjoy the fantastic vibes for the entire year. Now, how excited are you to visit this place? 

The City of Big Easy is the best when it comes to Creole and Cajun dishes, especially their traditional and flavorful jambalaya, po’boys, and more. But what makes these dishes fantastic is how they cook them in a very traditional way. You can feel the culture, especially their European roots, in every seasoning.

But that’s not all. Surely, you wouldn’t want to miss the party city’s great cocktails and live music at the Frenchmen Street or the shopping galore at the Garden District. Wait, there’s more. New Orleans is also famous for other international cuisines cooked the traditional way, such as the creamy hummus of Israel, flavorful curry of India, and aromatic lemongrass chicken wings. 

Now, you know why you need to put New Orleans on your bucket list. So, jot it down and get ready for your next food trip.

10. Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston is one of the oldest cities in America, dating back to the 17th century. That’s why the city is full of historical sites, cobblestone roads, and of course, traditional food. Charleston may have lacked diversity in cooking, but this city will surely satisfy your appetite with its excellent southern country cooking served with great hospitality. 

Moreover, the Holy City is known internationally because of its three James Beard award-winning restaurants. This is also why reservations are necessary when visiting them in Charleston.  

If this is your first time visiting the place, you may want to try dishes that are 100% local and modern-traditional, such as Shrimp and Grits or Gumbo of the Caribbean. So, if you’re looking for a comforting low country cuisine, get that car rolling and visit the Holy City.

11. Los Angeles, California

The City of Angels is another food stop in California you shouldn’t miss. Like the famous San Francisco, Los Angeles has comforting and excellent food to offer, from food trucks serving international dishes to fine dining experiences.  

You’ll be surprised at the proliferation of food trucks in the streets of Los Angeles . You can find them everywhere serving different local and international cuisines, such as Korean, Filipino, Japanese, and more. With that said, you can fulfill your around-the-world dream vacation with the food selection you can find in the City of Angels. 

For a fine dining experience, you can choose from any of this city’s Michelin-starred restaurants on your next visit. 

12. Las Vegas, Nevada

Is it possible that the city famous for gambling can also be well-known when it comes to food? Of course, it’s Las Vegas you’re talking about, and everything is possible in Sin City. In fact, you can enjoy the city without gambling, just eating. Like other cities, Las Vegas is known for Asian cuisines, primarily Chinese, Japanese, and Korean. 

But that’s not all. There are more great food finds in Las Vegas, such as corn dogs, lasagna tubes, appetizers served in a small ferris wheel, humongous chicken with waffles, and more.

13. Miami, Florida

If you love Cuban dishes but can’t go to Cuba, Miami is the place to go . Some foods of Cuban origin in Miami include ceviche. But that’s just one important part of the food scene that created the Magic City.

The Magic City became an attractive destination for food lovers because they can stroll around the beach while enjoying delicious local cuisine. Since you’re on the beach, try Miami’s great selection of seafood, such as large and juicy shrimps, stone crabs, clams, mussels, and more. Among this vast array of seafood, the best to try are the stone crabs, a hands-down favorite among locals and travelers alike.

Read more: The perfect Miami itinerary

14. Chicago, Illinois

If you plan to visit the Windy City, make sure to bring with you a lot of napkins because this city’s food scene will surely make sure your mouth water. The best dishes to try while you’re in Chicago are fully-loaded hot dogs, tender and flavorful Italian beef, tasty popcorns, and of course, the authentic Chicago-style deep-dish pizza.

The Windy City is also known as the culinary capital of the Midwest territories because of its award-winning restaurants that offer a magnificent view of the great Chicago River. It’s a dining experience that’s well worth the trip.   

Also, while you’re in Chicago, you may want to try and experience their wide selections of meat, especially gourmet melt-in-your-mouth steaks. 

Final Words 

A tour won’t be complete without tasting the cities’ best dishes and food traditions. The best thing about America is every city has its own specialties. For instance, if you want to enjoy the finest cheesesteak in Pennsylvania, Philadelphia is the place to go. 

As you travel to different spots to eat, you’ll discover not only great food but also the culture behind it. So, if you want to try the finest, go to the cities presented above. You won’t regret it.

Keep reading: Best countries for food across the world

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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 .

Protect Your Trip »

The 15 best foodie tours in the usa.

Savor fresh seafood, authentic Tex-Mex and more during one of these highly regarded outings.

(Getty Images) |

Consider these gourmand-approved excursions when visiting America's top culinary spots.

Savannah Taste Experience: Savannah, Georgia

Sonoma Food Tour: Sonoma, California

Austin Eats Food Tours: Austin, Texas

Bite San Diego: San Diego

Walk Eat Nashville: Nashville, Tennessee

Taste of Houston Food Tours: Houston

(Jamie Francis | Courtesy of TravelPortland.com)

Forktown Food Tours: Portland, Oregon

Savor Seattle Food Tours: Seattle

Charleston Culinary Tours: Charleston, South Carolina

Gourmet Food and Wine Tours: Napa Valley

Melting Pot Food Tours: Los Angeles

Foods of New York Tours: New York City

Chicago Food Planet: Chicago

Doctor Gumbo Tours: New Orleans

Local Tastes of the City Tours: San Francisco

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

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Foodie Flashpacker

Welcome to foodie flashpacker.

Foodie Flashpacker is a food-focused travel site whose mission is to help readers find the best of where and what to eat around the world.

Our founder has been exploring the globe for nearly a decade, seeking the best food experiences around the world. 

As featured in:

The places he hasn’t visited yet, are covered by local expert foodie writers

Our culinary travel guides are the ultimate manual that will help our readers turn each and every trip into a tasty and memorable adventure. 

Travel enthusiasts, digital nomads, world explorers, and lovers of delicious local dishes and different tastes will find this page to be the right step for them! 

Our stories will guide our readers through the diverse flavors in countries around the world. From the must-try Bar Harbor and Hilton Head restaurants to a list of Peruvian dishes worth tasting, this site covers all they need for the best foodie experiences.

WHO IS THIS GUIDE FOR? 

• Those who often travel for work, and the limited hours in their day during business trips don’t allow them to think about their next meal and where to get it. 
• Digital nomads who are always on the go, so they need clear guidance through the abundance of restaurants and eateries where they’re staying.
• Whatever one’s lifestyle may be, time should not be wasted searching for the best restaurant to have a meal. Our readers want to spend quality time enjoying the new place, making new memories, or getting their job done quickly.

But, finding the perfect place can often be quite a challenge, especially when visiting a city or a country for the first time.

So, instead of wasting hours scrolling through sites that only list the best-ranked, and overhyped restaurants, we offer an expert overview of some of the best places around the world.

Instead, what our readers need and can expect from our guide is: 

• An honest review of the place and the food quality.
• Detailed information on the taste and the ingredients used in the meal.
• A story and a deep dive into the history of the place you’re visiting
• More recommendations.

This site covers all of our founders travels across the world so check out the list below to find out more!

Must-Try Bar Harbor Restaurants

8 Hilton Head Restaurants To Try

8 St. Petersburg Restaurants To Visit

Best Banner Elk Restaurants

A tiny hamlet in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Banner Elk is “sandwiched” (note the clever pun in this article about the best Banner Elk restaurants) between Beech Mountain on one side and Sugar Mountain, both premier ski resorts in the North Carolina High Country.

 Best St. Thomas Restaurants

Adorned with powdery, sun-drenched beaches, one of the world’s most beautiful harbors, and multi-hued bluish crystalline waters, St. Thomas is one of three of the U.S. Virgin Islands located in the Caribbean Sea. This magnificent region is blessed with so much natural beauty; it’s utterly breathtaking. No wonder these best St. Thomas restaurants draw so much attention– they are literally located in paradise!

Jefferson NC Restaurants

West Jefferson, NC, located in Ashe County and known as the “Coolest Corner in North Carolina!” Nestled in the Appalachian Mountains and bordered by Virginia to the north and Tennessee to the west, we truly are in the coolest corner of the state.

13 Most Iconic Denver Restaurants

Denver may be most well-known for its elevation having over three hundred days of sunshine each year or being a big dog in the American beer scene.

But visitors may be surprised to find a bustling Denver restaurants scene as well! Whether it’s breakfast, lunch, or dinner, you’re sure to find no shortage of amazing options for places to eat in Denver.

Mexico Foodie Guide

Your boarding pass to the very best of Mexico. From beach lovers to people who enjoy history and fun activities – every type of visitor can find an itinerary to suit them.

I’ve covered nearly all of Mexico. I have visited the best sites and some of the best must-try restaurants and places that I heartily recommend you try during your stay in the city.

There are so many mesmerizing places around the world, but somehow, my heart lies within Mexico, and I’m about to show you why.

The country is filled with sensational beaches, tropical islands, tourist destinations, and surprising culture. I have gone through a lot of efforts (food) to stitch together the very best of Mexico into this foodie guide, and frankly, It was not an easy thing to do.

11 Must-Try Restaurants in Tulum

Authentic tacos, Mayan ruins, postcard beaches, parties and sun. Describing Tulum BRIEFLY is not doing anyone any good but it’s the easiest way to show what you’re missing if you don’t visit this magnificent place.

13 Must-Try Restaurants in Cancun

It’s easy to write with a belly  full of tacos ! I promise you one thing though, even if you’re not a writer, but a foodie, you will blossom when you try the amazing dishes that Cancun has to offer!

13 Best Guadalajara Restaurants

Everything from street food to fine dining in one place? Yes! Guadalajara is just a mind-blowing soup of different restaurants, each bringing a twist of Mexico to its table!

EUROPE FOODIE GUIDE

Europe is magnificent in its diversity of countries and cultures, each having something unique to offer. This foodie guide dedicated to Europe covers nearly all of the Old Continent. I have visited the best of the best sites and dined in the most amazing restaurants around.

There are plenty of travel articles on Europe, but none of them cover the whole continent. My goal is to show you that there is so much more to Europe than just the usual tourist destinations and typical dishes. 

Europe is huge, and with so much history, you could always be discovering something new. That makes it challenging to cover all the European countries. 

Walking Food Tour Of Athens

Ready for some greek cuisine, Mediterranean sun, and souvlaki? I’ve done the walking food tour of Athens, trying and tasting the best Greek foods on the planet.

10 Best Trento Restaurants

Italy…where to start? Pasta is my favorite dish in the world and when I had a chance to visit Trento, I did without hesitation. One of the best decisions of my life (my diet would disagree!).

Pico Island Azores

Pico Azores reminds me of Mexico but with a completely different twist on the food menu. Seafood, local food and some whale watching. Worth it!

Looking For Things To Do?

Food isn’t the only thing you should try while visiting these amazing places. That’s why I’ve made a specific list of things to do for most of the locations and I’m going to break it all down for you, along with my personal favorites, so that you can check the best and still have time to enjoy more food!

The 12 Best Foodie Gift Sets to Get for the Holiday Seasons

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The 30 Best Inexpensive Gifts for Foodies 

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Some places you visit will equal your expectations. Then again, some places you visit surprise…

There are affiliate links within this website that help me visit places more often and share my experiences with you. I will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

TASTE THE WORLD

Before you grab the bite, read more about it!

Our stories open a window into Foodie Flashpacker founder’s and our lives as digital nomads and travel writers, providing curated guides to the best food and restaurants around the world to help our readers make an easy decision that they will never regret.

Foodie Flashpacker is more than just a travel resource with fantastic recommendations of restaurants and dishes. It is a place where anyone can also learn more about them, their origin, and their backstory, а place where people can get an accurate description of the restaurant’s location and atmosphere, as well as the taste of the food and the way it was made.

This is a way to take a deep dive into the rich history and the cultures of countries in all four corners of the world to better understand their diverse culinary industries. The guides we share prove that these places are more than just their tourist attractions and prove that food is more than just a mix of ingredients.

Food tastes better when you know how and why it was made, so follow someone who can guide you through all of that.

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The 50 Best Foodie Towns In America

With such an expansive country and so many different cultures, America is bound to have incredible food from coast to coast . Yes, there are the big cities like New York and San Francisco that consistently get accolades for their culinary offerings, but we can't forget about some of the smaller cities that are also food-lovers' paradises . We've rounded up the 50 best cities for food in America, and we bet some of them will surprise you.

While some towns on our list might only have a population of a few thousand, that's not stopping many nationally and internationally-recognized chefs from venturing to these hidden gems to test out new concepts or return to their roots. There are also quite a few local food masters that don't have name recognition (yet) but could easily whip up Michelin-quality meals.

While there are dozens of ways to judge a city or town for its food — and everyone has an opinion — the variety of restaurants, for one, is certainly an important factor. But equally important is the creativity of the dishes coming out of these eateries, the chefs being drawn to the area, and how they're pushing the culinary envelope. A great food city or town is not defined by just one flavor or a big name, but rather a combination of many different factors. These are America's 50 best towns for food.

Asheville, North Carolina

Home to multiple James Beard Award nominee chefs and the only female-run moonshine distillery, Asheville's food scene continues to rise. How? Well, locally-acclaimed chef John Fleer just opened his third restaurant, Benne on Eagle at The Foundry Hotel where he pays homage to the hotel's historic The Block neighborhood with dishes like braised rabbit, fried catfish and waffles and crispy quail with hot water cornbread. Homegrown also opened up a location in West Asheville serving up downhome Southern cuisine while White Labs Kitchen & Tape has pizza made from dough that rises for 72-hours. And there is talk that S&W Artisanal has plans to open a Greek version of Eataly. Fingers crossed that happens!

Austin, Texas

You'd be hard pressed to find someone who doesn't like the Austin food scene. Yes, they have superb barbecue at classic joints Lambert's , Franklin Barbecue (home of the absolute best thing to eat in Texas ), and The Salt Lick where people line up for hours for a taste. But they also knock it out of the park with pretty much every other kind of fare as well. Tex-Mex? You can't visit without trying a breakfast taco from Papalote . Sushi? Uchi has fresh fish flown in every day from Japan. Opulent afternoon tea? Yup, they have that too at The Driskill hotel. That's on top of the more than 1,000 food trucks in the city. Swing by any one of those, and you can get everything from falafel and rice at Halal Time to chow-chow doughnuts at Little Lucy's Mini Donuts . The problem? You could move there and still not have enough time try all the options.

Bend, Oregon

Bend is so special , we're hesitant to even talk about it. Why? Well, it's a laid-back town with endless outdoor activities and food options. After hitting the trails for a hike or bike ride, you can pop into any one of the tasty eateries in town. Many of the restaurants opt to stick with the carefree vibe, serving up delicious dishes in casual settings. Spork is one of those spots. It was once an Airstream food truck and has since become a counter-service spot known for its South American cuisine. Jackson's Corner makes seasonal pizzas in a quaint café setting. And you can pick up a whimsical pastry from Foxtail Bakeshop . Though low-key reigns supreme, there are fine dining options. Ariana is the favorite fancy spot in the area making French, Italian, and Spanish-influenced dishes in an intimate setting.

Birmingham, Alabama

Birmingham has the nickname The Magic City, and we're pretty sure we know why: the food. They have everything you'd expect from a Southern city like perfect crisp fried chicken and fluffy biscuits to superb fusion dishes. Must-eats include the beef carpaccio from Bottega (Harry's Bar in Venice inspired it), the oxtails from Eagle's Restaurant (they cook it for over three hours), and the tacos from Taqueria Guzman (fillings include tongue, tripe, and brain). Oh, and that fried chicken we mentioned? Yeah, you can get that at Café Dupont .

Bloomington, Indiana

Bloomington is a surprising city for many reasons. Did you know it's home to a Buddhist monastery and Mongolian yurts? Well, the food scene in the home of Indiana University is just as unexpected. Especially since it's so healthy! Here you'll find spots like Laughing Planet Café where they serve California-style burritos packed with organic and locally-produced ingredients. The Owlery offers high quality vegetarian food at affordable prices. Rainbow Bakery makes interesting vegan doughnut flavors with a fun rainbow theme using all-natural dyes. Oh, and Tracy Gates, founder of Ugo Bars and Red Chair Bakery, just opened another cute brunch spot — The Inkwell — where customers line up on the weekends for their avocado toast and homemade pop tarts.

Boston, Massachusetts

Boston might be known for its lobster rolls and clam chowder (check out Pauli's and Summer Shack if you're in the market), but Beantown has become revolutionary with its cuisine over the years. You can get some of the best ramen you've ever tasted at Cambridge's Yume Wo Katare ; O Ya has the freshest sushi in town; Toro is talked about for tapas, and Outlook Kitchen & Bar at The Envoy Hotel has delectable New American dishes like Bay of Fundy Salmon. The Better Sorts Social Club at Kimpton Nine Zero serves up drinks mixed with pasta water syrup.

Carmel, Indiana

The Midwest isn't always thought of for its food , yet one quaint little town just north of Indianapolis has really come into its own. Carmel, Indiana, is now an enclave of makers and artists and consequently has created a strong foodie culture, especially in the last five years. One of the better breakfast places in the nation, Carmel's Eggshell Bistro is just starting to get the spotlight (it was just highlighted on Food & Wine this past month). Also, Owner Larry Hanes' beautifully crafted dishes come out of the kitchen looking like works of art. Other highlights in the area include Divvy , a local restaurant co-founded by one of "Indy's Top 10 Chefs," Richelle Rider. Then there's Tina's Tearoom , an authentic British tearoom offering English high tea featuring hard-to-find tea blends served in vintage teacups. Bub's Burgers , a classic Midwest burger joint, is often cited as the best places for burgers in the state (even the NFL Colts players drop in from time to time) and is famous for its "Big Ugly" burger. And you have to stop by No Label at the Table , a vegan-friendly bakery staffed entirely by those on the autism spectrum.

Charleston, South Carolina

Leave it to Charleston to serve up some of the best Southern dishes around... and then some. The shrimp and grits at Poogan's Porch are to die for as well as the she-crab soup at Hominy Grill . But some newer faces are putting the city on the map for other fares too. Shuai and Corrie Wang use unfamiliar Japanese sauces and ingredients to create their highly sought after O.G. Chirashi Bowl at their food truck, Short Grain . Rodney Scott won a James Beard Award for his whole-hog barbecue. And Mike Lata perfected the concept of "farm to table" with his restaurants like FIG and The Ordinary .

Cleveland, Ohio

Move over Rock and Roll Hall of Fame ; the real reason you should visit Cleveland, Ohio, is for the food.  Larder Delicatessen and Bakery swears by foraging and fermentation, to create homemade breads, koji-cured pastrami, and in-house-fermented root beer. You'll get delicious Japanese hot pot with seasonal vegetables and proteins like wagyu beef and live scallops at Ushabu . And don't come to town without a visit to Ninja City , where you can try traditional Asian dishes with a modern twist served in a comic book-like setting. But what we're most excited about is the Ohio City Galley. The 8,700-square-foot food hall from Galley Group will be home to Mexican cuisine (Poca) and fried chicken with signature seasoning sauces (Sauce the City). Cleveland native Anthony Zappola — a veteran of Tom Colicchio's restaurants — is opening his joint there too called The Rice Shop.

Columbus, Ohio

From standout craft breweries and acclaimed small-batch coffee roasters to an innovative dining scene rich with ethnic influences, vegetarian and vegan-friendly options, Columbus is a great foodie destination that's currently a bit under the radar for most culinary travelers. Some hot spots include one of the city's first tasting-menu-only concepts at Veritas . There you can find interesting flavor combinations, like coconut and caviar. And just upstairs lies The Citizens Trust , a forward-thinking cocktail bar where they use unusual methods like rotary evaporators and centrifuged ingredients to create cocktails such as the "Sauced and Seasoned," with browned butter, Wild Turkey Rye, cranberry and saline. That's all in addition to the classics such as Momo Ghar (known for their homestyle Nepali and Tibetan food), Hot Chicken Takeover (they make killer Nashville-style fried chicken), and Trism (their pop-tarts and vegan doughnuts are to die for).

Dallas, Texas

Texas is so big you can't expect there to be just one foodie city. Dallas also has one of the country's best up-and-coming food scenes. The city's first sushi concept spot, Namo , opened in August 2018 and focused on Japanese temaki (handrolls). You can get a mezze menu comprised of Turkish, Greek and Lebanese at Zaytinya in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. And restaurateur Tristan Simon's hospitality group Rebees opened their first Texan-cuisine joint, Billy Can Can . Now we see why Zagat rated Dallas 16th  on their "30 Most Exciting Food Cities in America 2017," and GQ named them their "Next Best New Food City" earlier this year.

Denver, Colorado

There's a mile-high list of reasons Denver makes the cut as one of the top foodie towns. Over 50 new restaurants opened in 2018 serving cuisine from across the globe like Mongolian eatery Chubby Cattle and James Beard Award-winning chef Alon Shaya's first restaurant outside of New Orleans, Safta in The Source Hotel. But it's not all new food that's getting attention. Sandwich shop Call made Bon Appetit's list of Top 10. Oh, and some of the country's favorite food chains — Chipotle, Qdoba, Noodles and Company, and Smashburger—were also created here.

Detroit, Michigan

Detroit might have gained a reputation for producing cars, but it's Motor City's food scene that's revving our engines. In fact, there are so many restaurants opening and revamping, it's hard to keep up. But here are a few highlights: Laika Dog at UFO Factory is back serving their famous corndogs. There's a tasting-menu-only restaurant called Albena that only hosts eight guests at a time to sample dishes like okra caviar. The fried chicken with cornbread at Besa is a must-have. And the city's first shipping container food hall opened in July with a mile-long list of vendors serving everything from tacos to nitrogen ice cream.

Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Sure, you can get a great meal in Miami . But head just a bit north to Fort Lauderdale, and you'll find one of Florida's hottest food scenes cooking.  They've got everything from cozy nooks for grabbing a quick bite to breathtaking waterfront spots and fine dining restaurants. Some of the local favorites include Café Maxx , serving up American fare in neighboring Pompano Beach. Others swear by the Italian food at Valentino . But it's not all about the home-grown stars. Big-name chefs are making their mark on the coastal city too. Just one town over in Hollywood, Geoffrey Zakarian opened seafood hot spot Point Royal , and Michael Schulson serves up the freshest sushi at Monkitail . No matter what, you're guaranteed a good meal with a side of sand and sunshine.

Greenville, South Carolina

You'd never except the world-class food that's coming out of this charming Southern town . Greenville is now home to Sean Brock's Husk outpost and Michael Kramer's Jianna , which has arguably the best house-made pasta in South Carolina. The Anchorage — a James Beard semi-finalist for Best New Restaurant — is also based here. Newer restaurants in Greenville and the surrounding area are offering cuisine from around the globe like Monkey Wrench Smokehouse , Golden Llama Peruvian Rotisserie , and Aryana , which serves authentic Afghan dishes. If that's not enough, Seedlings is the first farm-to-table restaurant for kids. Now it makes sense why they host two major culinary events: Euphoria and Fall for Greenville.

Harrisburg, Pennsylvania

Watch out Philadelphia and Pittsburgh; there's a new Pennsylvania city making a mark on the map with its food scene. The capital, Harrisburg, is quickly becoming a destination for some of the best cuisine offerings in the state. Get Sicilian-style cured meats and cheeses at Bacco , perfectly crisp pizza at Cork & Fork , award-winning jumbo lump Maryland-style crab cakes at The Firehouse Restaurant , and mouthwatering steak at 1700° Steakhouse . Then there's Broad Street Market , which has food stands ranging from pierogis and apple dumplings to gourmet fresh pasta and Indian cuisine. Whatever you're in the mood for, they've got it.

Hoboken, New Jersey

Just across the river from Midtown Manhattan, a New Jersey city is giving the Big Apple some competition when it comes to the food scene. Sure, there are not as many options as in its larger neighbor. But Hoboken packs a lot of delicious fare into under 2 square miles. You can get stellar Cuban diner food (order the epic papa rellena) at La Isla , a classic hero roast beef sandwich with homemade mozzarella at Fiore's Deli , and giant pretzels at Pilsener Haus & Biergarten . No matter the fare or fanciness, this waterfront spot has it all. And don't forget to pick up some fresh "muzz" at Fiore's.

Honolulu, Hawaii

There are a million reasons to go to Hawaii : the surf, the weather, the beaches... But you should add food on to that long list. Honolulu is home to The Street in Waikiki's famous International Marketplace . It's there where you will find a number of curated food stations by chef Michael Mina. Foodies will love Almita Cantina, where you can get line-caught Kajiki Ceviche with pineapple, and Burger Hale, where you'll want to order the Locco Moco (aka fried rice, a hamburger patty, sunny-side-up egg, and gravy). There's also International Smoke by Ayesha Curry, Indie Girl, and Little Lafa. Just north of Waikiki Beach, there's the Kaka'ako neighborhood, which is home to three-time James Beard finalist Peter Merriman's Merriman's .

Jackson, Wyoming

Jackson Hole is an adventure lover's paradise . It's also a foodie's haven, particularly within the town of Jackson itself. You'll love Mama's Midnight Ramen from Teton Tiger , spicy Mexican hot chocolate from CocoLove , and Persephone Bakery 's Nutella (you'll never want to go back to the original). The food scene is so alluring, even chef Mac Jarvis from David Chang's Las Vegas Momofuku has a spot here: Glorietta . You'll want to try ricotta cavatelli with spicy sausage, brown butter, and fried sage. Lastly, make sure not to leave here without trying some steak. Westbank Grill at the Four Seasons Jackson Hole has an American wagyu New York strip that's grilled to perfection .

Kansas City, Missouri

Some foodies will argue that Kansas City, Missouri, is one of the most underrated food towns in the world. While they might not get the recognition as other Midwestern cities, they should. Why? Well, they have some of the best barbecue in the country with Arthur Bryant's , Gates and Joe's Kansas City . They're also home to fun and different food places like Grinders (order their world-famous Death Wings) and Bluestem (their new American tasting menu is to die for). Boulevard Brewing Company and their offshoot Tank 7 have some of the best beer around, and you can get delicious classic diner food at Winstead's . Even the Mexican food is excellent! Don't pay a visit and not eat at Zocalo . Just hurry up get to Kansas City before too many people find out.

Lexington, Kentucky

Lexington is undoubtedly known for its equine culture and bourbon (as "Horse Capital of the World" with 400-plus horse farms and producer of 90 percent of the world's bourbon). But this Kentucky town is also garnering attention for its expansive culinary scene — so much so that "Top Chef" Season 16 will take place in Kentucky, with a significant portion filmed in Lexington. The city also recently opened Kentucky's first food hall and offers an unexpected array of dining options, with over 120 locally-owned restaurants including international cuisine like Asian-fusion, South American, Sri Lankan and the Caribbean. Even their race track cuisine grabs national attention: At the beloved  Keeneland Race Course, chef Marc Therrien is serving elevated menus (combining signature Kentucky burgoo with innovations like bourbon soy smoked deviled eggs) through his Paddock Dinner Series. Now that's a food scene we'll bet our money on.

Litchfield Park, Arizona

Phoenix might be your first thought when choosing a dining destination in Arizona. But head just 20 miles west, and you'll find a little foodie oasis.  Litchfield Park is home to an elevated farm-to-table restaurant, Litchfield's (order the black mussels with chorizo), casual comfort food at Red's Bar and Grill (chow down on their fish tacos), and Wigwam Bar , which serves equally delicious cocktails and lattes. The best part? These spots are all located in one spot. Yes, 90-year-old resort The Wigwam has become a dining destination for locals and visitors alike. There's even The Wigwam Beer Dinner Series where a four-course meal is expertly paired with four beers from local breweries. Not too shabby for a 3-square-mile town.

Littleton, New Hampshire

It says it in the name, but Littleton, New Hampshire, is a tiny town. Their food scene though? Now, that's larger than life. It's home to the longest candy counter at Chutters , fine new American cuisine at The Beal House , homemade ice cream at Bishop's (Bishop's Bash flavor is a must), and the classic Littleton Dinner, which opened in 1930. The town even has its own apiary called White Mountain where they make all organic honey products. No wonder they were named one of the best small downtowns in America.

Los Alamos, California

Over the past decade, creative locals and Los Angeles expats have set up shop in this former frontier town, creating a blink-and-you'll-miss-it hotbed of innovative restaurants, wineries, art galleries and more. The street packs nearly a dozen stellar restaurants into its eight-block stretch. For example, a 1920s gas station now houses a boulangerie ( Bob's Well Bread ) producing loaves on par with Paris. Farm-to-table restaurant Bell's is run by Per Se NYC alums Daisy & Greg Ryan. A historical saloon buzzes with a star-powered tasting room ( 1880 Union Hotel with wines from Kurt Russell). Tasting rooms like Casa Dunmetz , Municipal Winemakers and more dot the main street between. Just recently, a new boutique hotel created from a 1950s motel called Skyview Los Alamos opened adding a micro foodie destination in Santa Barbara Wine Country with its restaurant Norman that serves local wines, herb-infused cocktails, and farm-fresh fare. Not bad for a town with a population of 1,890.

Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Milwaukee is so much more than just cheese and beer ( although that stuff is great too ). In this Wisconsin city, you can get many dishes that are just as delicious as their famous cheese curds. East Side Ovens ' vegan fruit dumplings melt in your mouth. James Beard Award-nominated chef Karen Bell makes the best charcuterie to go with the famous cheese at Bavette La Boucherie . And did you know they have more frozen custard shops per capita than any other place in the country? That's why you can't leave without trying a sweet sample from Leon's Frozen Custard or one of the three Kopp's locations in the surrounding area.

Minneapolis, Minnesota

One trip to Minneapolis and you can taste the world. Bellecour is a quintessential French bakery during the day and bistro at night. Martina has authentic Argentinean and Italian fare. World Street Kitchen has some of the best Asian street food like their Yum Yum bowls. You can't miss the jerk chicken at Pimento Jamaican Kitchen or the Venezuelan-style arepas at Hola Arepa . One trip to the Twin Cities is a lot easier than a trek around the world.

Mystic, Connecticut

You can thank Julia Roberts for putting Mystic, Connecticut , on the map in the late '80s as the pizzeria Mystic Pizza inspired the hit movie bearing the same name. While fans have flocked to the seaport town for decades to taste a famous slice, the food scene has blossomed more recently. Restauranteur Dan Meiser has totally revived the area and made it an amazing food destination with several of his restaurants. Oyster Club , Engine Room , and Grass and Bone are all delicious dining destinations in their own right. While there, don't miss grabbing a Beer'ded Brioche doughnut at Deviant Donuts , or fresh-made noodles at Japanese Ramen Noodle Soup & Asian BBQ. And keep an eye out. We have a feeling there's plenty more to come from this small town.

Napa, California

When one thinks of Napa, the first thing that comes to mind is wine . Well, surprisingly, the sunny town has more than 65 restaurants and 27 tasting cellars. Luckily, there are many restaurants readily available whether you're craving Mexican or pasta or just want to enjoy a nice glass of wine with a view. Gran Electrica is the perfect spot if you want authentic Mexican cuisine, while Vista Collina Resort has a hidden gem: Fivetown Grocery. Inside, you can find house-made pasta and freshly baked bread, both made from scratch by chef Vincent Lesage. And let's not forget celebrity chef Michael Chiarello, whose restaurants Ottimo and Bottega Napa Valley are on-site at The Estate Yountville's V Marketplace , which now offers an Italian epicurean experience consisting of a hands-on mozzarella demonstration. The only rooftop in the Valley is the new Sky & Vine Rooftop Bar at the Archer Hotel, so grab a glass of wine and sit back and relax.

Naples, Florida

The descriptions of the food that comes out of Naples, Florida , make us want to book a trip there right now. Foodie fans have described the hummus at True Food Kitchen as tasting like delicious clouds while others have boasted that Bha! Bha! has the best Persian dishes in the country. Locals and visitors alike drool over Ocean Prime 's award-winning seafood and steak. And multiple people swear Escargot 41 is the best meal they've ever had. Guess we'll have to pay a visit to test it out.

Nashville, Tennessee

Nashville is the perfect place to tour around and try as many restaurants as possible. Husk , City House , and Rolf & Daughters are some of the iconic hot spots that many people try when they're down in Music City. However, two more places should be on everyone's list. Mop/Broom Mess Hall is the perfect casual restaurant, and to top it all off, Tandy Wilson is the man behind the madness; he's a James Beard Award-winning chef, so you know it's going to be extra delicious. In addition, there's Rolf & Daughters' Phillip Krajeck's industrial chic-restaurant. Since this is the land of barbecue, Ellington's Mid Way Bar & Grill serves mid-20th-century dishes, while on the top floor of the JW Marriott Nashville , Michael Mina's indoor-outdoor American steakhouse is the perfect place to get that finger-lickin' chicken and, of course, a steak.

New Orleans, Louisiana

There are so many foodie-approved places in NOLA , it's hard to keep track of them all. Domenica , Seaworthy , Chophouse New Orleans , Naked Crab , Luke , and Maypop are just some of the award-winning restaurants that will be worth your while. Chef Nina Compton's Bywater American Bistro , Alon Shaya's Saba , Pythian Market , and Auction House Market are some new places to check out if you're in The Big Easy. The vibrant city is also known for their festivals, so be sure to book your flight ASAP for the Fried Chicken Fest (September 22-23), Crescent City Blues & BBQ Festival (October 12-14), or the Boudin, Bourbon, and Beer festival (November 9). New Orleans is the home base of classic Creole cuisine, so don't miss grand dames like Galatoire's and Arnaud's , where Sunday brunch is a Big Easy tradition .

New York, New York

Even if you order something at 2 a.m., you know it's going to be good if you're in the City That Never Sleeps. Whether you want Chinese food, pizza, or a Michelin-rated restaurant, New York has got you covered .  Chinatown, Little Italy, and Koreatown have so many restaurants that the possibilities for where to eat are endless. And because the city is huge, there are always new restaurants coming and going, like Unagi-Ya Hachibei , NYC's first freshwater eel restaurant, where customers can actually catch their own dinner. This is really what foodie dreams are made of.

Newport, Rhode Island

Rhode Island might be small, but two cities from the state made our list. Yes, Newport has always been known for its Gilded Age mansions and America's Cup, but it's recently started being recognized for its bustling culinary scene. New restaurants are popping up all over town, and not all of them are seafood-focused. There are newbies like Bar and Board (New England cuisine with a Mediterranean twist), Root (vegan juice bar), and Cara (The Chanler's new tasting menu restaurant that draws on classic French, Italian and Spanish influences), to revamped classics like Stoneacre Brasserie (their creamy polenta is a must). Of course, you can't forget the classic classics like White Horse Tavern , which has been around since 1673, making it one of the oldest restaurants in the country .

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Oklahoma City is more than meets the eye — the area, with an exciting crop of restaurants, hotels, and shops, has emerged as an under-the-radar travel destination. Local restaurant group 84 Hospitality is hell-bent on furthering the social dining and late-night scene in OKC. The group owns and operates six unique concepts: Goro Ramen , Revolución Taqueria & Cantina , Ponyboy , food truck Burger Punk, and Empire Slice House — which was named this year's Independent Pizzeria of the Year by Pizza Today. No wonder the dining scene is growing and has been identified as an up-and-coming foodie spot by Eater and Food & Wine.

Palm Springs, California

This city is on fire when it comes to restaurants — literally. However, forget restaurants for a second, hotels are actually the place to be. There are tapas at Counter Reformation , cavatelli at the Kimpton Rowan , and even house-made pork terrine at The Pink Cabana at Sands Hotel & Spa in nearby Indian Wells. Don't worry; there are actual restaurants that you should be sure to check out too, like Rooster And The Pig if you're craving Vietnamese or Copley's on Palm Canyon if you're in the mood for good old American.

Philadelphia

If you go to Philadelphia , you have to indulge in a Philly cheesesteak at Delassandro's , but there are also so many more places to eat at as well. If you're craving Italian, American, Lebanese or seafood, this city has the perfect meal waiting for everyone and anyone. Suraya is known for its kebabs and grilled fish, while Oyster House has an incredible raw bar and Le Virtù has seasonal kinds of pasta, which are a must-have. If you still have room for any snacks, be sure to check out Lacroix Restaurant at The Rittenhouse , which has all different types of popcorn — red plum, white chocolate, and corn sponge cake.

Portland, Maine

When you talk about food and Portland, people tend to think of the city in Oregon, but the East Coast's Portland has killer cuisine too. No matter what meal of the day you're on, there's a spot to satisfy your cravings. For breakfast, you'll want to order the crispy chicken biscuit at Dutch's Breakfast & Lunch or the potato doughnut at Holy Donut . Head to Japanese food truck Mami for lunch where you'll want to order the nikuman or sample the Colombian food at Maiz . And for dinner, you'll want to stick to the hometown specialty: seafood. The bucket of steamers at J's Oyster Bar is perfect as well as the fresh catch of the day at Lobster Shack at Two Lights . Watch out, West Coast Portland!

Portland, Oregon

This up-and-coming city is where you can find all of the foodies these days. There are over 500 food carts that live in the city, but make sure to check out some of the restaurants as well. Bistro Agnes offers chicken liver mousse, seared foie gras French toast and steak frites, whereas Palomar features classic Cuban diner food. Chef Chris Cosentino opened his "snout to tail" cooking concept Jacckrabbit at The Duniway Hotel . And chef Cathy Whims (who is a six-time James Beard Best Chef Northwest Award nominee) and her partner David West just opened a wine bar that focuses on natural European wines, paired with regional Italian dishes. Who needs Italy when you can get to Portland so much faster?

Providence, Rhode Island

As the smallest state in the country, Rhode Island is often overlooked in the culinary world. Little known, this fun-sized state packs a punch in the culinary world, with one of the most famous culinary schools, Johnson & Wales University, right at the city center. New restaurants in Providence are popping up every day like Sarto , a Rhode Island-inspired Osteria & Salumeria offering a creative and modern take on rustic Italian fare. Recently opened O'Boy is a beautiful Asian/European restaurant led by chef Jae Choi, a graduate of Johnson & Wales. Yoleni's , which launched in May, offers visitors a complete experience of authentic Greek gastronomy with a restaurant and cooking classes. And Mare Rooftop opened summer 2018 as the second rooftop restaurant in Providence serving a variety of Mediterranean cuisine. Can't decide where to start? Book a Rhode Island Red Food Tour to taste the best of fresh local foods.

Raleigh, North Carolina

Raleigh is trying to differentiate itself from other Southern cities like Nashville and Atlanta. Beasley's Chicken + Honey has some of the best fried chicken, which should be paired with a side of pimento mac and cheese and custard. If you want the traditional Southern breakfast, be sure to check out Big Ed's , where you can order salt-cured country ham and red-eye gravy served with all the sides you can imagine. Bon Appetit named Brewery Bhavana a Best New Restaurant in America in 2017, so you know scallion pancakes will not disappoint.

Richmond, Virginia

Although Richmond is the capital of Virginia, it often gets overlooked due to its northern neighbor, the nation's capital. But that's precisely why it's a foodie haven. Options are plentiful, and the servings are huge (and cheap). What are some of those favorite dishes? You can be sure to get a generous portion of authentic Cuban cuisine at Kuba Kuba , a massive slice of fresh fruit cake from Shyndigz , and a filling acai bowl from The Pit and The Peel . If you're starving, head to Joe's Inn , where the spaghetti weighs about 5 pounds.

Sacramento, California

Sacramento is a great food destination because it's the hub of America's most abundant agriculture region and has access to more ingredients than any other city. They mean "farm-to-table" quite literally here, where chefs go to the farmers market, make relationships with growers, and create menus around the season. So where can you get this fabulous fare? Allora is known for its seafood and fresh handmade pasta. Ten Ten Room is a mid-century-inspired cocktail bar that features classic cuisine of the era like a deviled scotch egg. Beast + Bounty is a haven for the carnivores and herbivores as they make a classic meat burger and equally delicious vegan one. Lastly, Revival at The Sawyer has farm-to-fork cuisine being served on Sacramento's first ever rooftop bar and lounge located on the third floor of the Kimpton Sawyer Hotel.

Salt Lake City, Utah

One of the safest cities in the world , Utah's capital features an 80-mile-long urban corridor of incredible art, culture, performing arts and live music. So, of course, you're bound to find some incredible food options. Here you'll find a progressive, farm-forward dining scene courtesy of things like Certified Cheese Professionals manning cheese caves and impressive bean-to-bar chocolate makers. Head to Caputo's Gourmet Market where they specialize in the art of cheese making, working with local farms to create distinct flavors as the cheeses ripen. Other local favorites include Pretty Bird Chicken , providing Utah's take on Nashville-style hot chicken; Takashi Japanese and sushi featuring the buzz-worthy new cocktail bar, Post Office Place ; White Horse , a modern American brasserie and bar; and more. Lastly, don't leave town without trying the coffee. Publik Coffee Roasters and Blue Copper are must visits when in the area.

San Diego, California

The weather is enticing enough to want to get out to San Diego , but when it comes to the food scene, this city does not disappoint. Puesto and Lola 55 offer the quintessential Mexican and Cal-Mex food, but there's also Juniper & Ivy (New American) and Menya Ultra (Japanese). Little Italy, Barrio Logan, and the Convoy are the best diverse neighborhoods to drive to so that you'll never be hungry again. Boulud Sud chef Travis Swikard is even leaving New York to open a restaurant in San Diego — sounds like this place could give New York a run for its money.

Seattle, Washington

Fresh air and fresh food are two of the many reasons why people check out Seattle . Canlis basically invented modern Pacific Northwest cuisine, while Staple & Fancy features some of the freshest ingredients you will ever taste. What do The Walrus and the Carpenter , Bateau , and The Whale Wins all have in common? Well, Renee Erickson won a James Beard Award for all of her restaurants, so you know they have to be amazing. However, if you just want to order something casual, head to Dick's , where you can dig into a delicious burger.

Stowe, Vermont

Love to ski? Love to eat? Then Stowe is your heaven on Earth . This 200-year-old Vermont town has some delicious eateries like Plate , which has been touted for both its architecture and food options (order the grilled cauliflower steak). There's also Bistro at Ten Acres that serves dishes such as Vietnamese grilled shrimp with views of the mountain. And for that truly apres-ski experience, head to Solstice at Stowe Mountain Lodge where you can pop off your ski boots and enjoy seasonal farm-fresh dishes like braised rabbit Charlotte with local cheddar. Don't forget, the Ben & Jerry's factory is just down the road too. No wonder Fodor's Travel named the town as the No. 1 Ski Town for Foodies in the United States.

Telluride, Colorado

Telluride is known for its rustic charm, first-class skiing, and shorter lift lines. But it's also home to a burgeoning food scene. The setting of the pivotal finale of the latest season of "Top Chef," Telluride boasts an array of fine dining, as well as beloved fast casual options. "Top Chef" alum Eliza Gavin chose to open 221 South Oak in the heart of downtown; Alpino Vino , the best date spot in the state , has the highest-elevation eatery in North America at 11,966 feet; and Allred's , situated at the top of Telluride's famed gondola, offers up seasonal cuisine crafted with local ingredients and a stellar wine list. This year, a variety of new restaurants came on the scene like Shake n Dog Grub Shack in Mountain Village, which serves up comforting classics such as hot dogs, shakes, salads, and soup. And Wood Ear Whiskey Lounge & Noodle Bar is now cooking up untraditional "Texas-style" ramen, boiling 200 pounds of bones per day to create the signature broth for their ramen dishes. That alone is worth a trip.

Tupelo, Mississippi

Historically famous as the birthplace of Elvis, this small northeastern Mississippi town is now emerging as a long weekend escape in its own right. Forming a triangle with Memphis and Nashville; Tupelo shares a lot of similarities with the two cities — an incredible musical scene, culinary chops, and rich history. But unlike its two unchecked neighbors to the north, Tupelo has retained all of its character with some seriously good food. Kermit's Outlaw Kitchen (KOK) is the perfect stop for cocktails and wood fired barbecue. Neon Pig is a funky restaurant/butcher shop that features fresh cuts of the day. And Clay's House of Pig , which is located inside a still-operating bait and tackle shop, is known for the mouth-watering slow-cooked pulled pork baked potato topped with queso, slaw, and jalapeños (order a half size, trust us). No wonder Mitchell McCamey returned here to open some restaurants after being trained under James Beard Award-winning chefs.

Washington, D.C.

Zagat named this bustling city the hottest food city in 2016, and they weren't wrong. If you want a classic meal, there's Rasika — one of the best Indian restaurants in the country — and Rose's Luxury , but if you want a Michelin-star restaurant, head to Masseria restaurant, opened by Nick Stefanelli, or Plume , which serves up prix fixe and tasting menus inspired by the harvest in Thomas Jefferson's Monticello gardens. The Southwest Waterfront is growing by the minute — with new shops, houses, and restaurants being built, it seems like this is where the people will flock to the most once it's finished. Of course, you can't forget to eat at Ben's Chili Bowl , which has some of the best hot dogs in America .

Woodstock, New York

The hippies might have put Woodstock on the map in the 1970s, but foodies are making this quaint New York town a cuisine destination. Walk along the main street, and you'll find vegan meals at Garden Café , fresh ice cream at Nancy's of Woodstock Artisanal Creamery , contemporary Italian at Cucina , and upscale diner food at Oriole 9 . Name pretty much any other type of cuisine, and they have it too. Head to Joshua's Café  for some great Mediterranean,  Catskill Mountain Pizza Co . for delicious pizza, and for  Yum Yum Noodle Bar  for Asian street food that's sure to impress your taste buds .

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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.

Washington, D.C.

A Smithsonian magazine special report

The 20 Most Iconic Food Destinations Across America

Every city has that one place that tourists and locals alike go to for local flavor. Which one is the best?

Marina Koren

The residents of major American cities have a lot to brag about: sports teams, notable citizens, famous architecture. But few things instill as much civic pride like food does. Whether it’s a hole-in-the-wall deli, a decades-old steakhouse or a hot dog drive-in, every city seems to have that iconic eatery locals swear by and tourists regularly swarm. Here are the must-eat spots from 20 big cities.

Ben’s Chili Bowl

The Varsity

Union Oyster House

Superdawg Drive-in

Camp Washington Chili

St. Elmo’s Steak House

Oklahoma Joe’s Barbecue

Canter’s Deli

Corky’s BBQ

Joe’s Stone Crab

Café Du Monde

Katz's Delicatessen

Pat’s King of Steaks and Geno’s Steaks

Primanti Brothers

Voodoo Doughnut

Boudin Bakery

Piroshky Piroshky

Cherry Cricket

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EVERY Food Lover Should Visit These Places

Posted: July 28, 2023 | Last updated: February 26, 2024

Fork in the road

Take part in a New York food tour

In a city as large as New York, it would be impossible to discover all the best restaurants, cafés, and hole-in-the-wall eateries by yourself, which is why we like to leave it to the experts. There are as many food tours in New York as there are bagel vendors, so it all depends on what interests you the most – whether it’s exploring the city’s wine and nightlife, sampling Greenwich Village’s Italian cuisine, taking to the streets of Chinatown, or visiting a selection of the finest food carts around.

Go on a wine cruise in Bordeaux

With historic towns and cities, beautiful countryside, and some of the world’s most wonderful wine, Bordeaux is a traveler’s dream for so many reasons. But, if you ask us, the best way to soak it all up is by taking to the waters of the Garonne and Gironde rivers on a wine cruise, stopping off at vineyards, wineries, and cellars to sample a taste of the local vin du pays. While you’re in the area, don’t miss steak frites (steak and duck fat fries); they’re the perfect complement to a bottle of Bordeaux red.

Taste Canadian cuisine in Québec City

If you want to try treats that were born and bred in Canada, then you simply must make a stop in Québec City. Here, you can indulge your sweet tooth with gooey butter tarts, Tim Horton’s famous Timbits donut holes, and maple syrup-infused favorites like lollipops. More of a savoury person? Combine all your favorite food groups in one meal with a serving of poutine (fries covered in gravy and cheese curds), or try a hearty portion of Québécois meat pie – then wash it all down with a Caesar cocktail (a Bloody Mary-like cocktail made with Clamato).

Do a pintxos crawl through San Sebastián

San Sebastián is considered by many to be Spain’s foodie capital, which is high praise indeed considering the staggering range of gastronomic delights the country has to offer. It’s all down to pintxos: tapas-like finger foods served at bars throughout the Basque Country. There are hundreds of places that offer up these tiny snacks, but we recommend heading to the Old Town and Gros districts for the best of the bunch. Expect everything from boquerones (fresh anchovies served in vinegar and olive oil) to grilled octopus and txangurro, the famous Basque crab.

Try the world’s best sushi in Tokyo

From its high-end restaurant show-stoppers to its on-the-go convenience store offerings (and all sorts of other fantastic creations in between), there’s nowhere better in the world to sample sushi than Tokyo. Don’t miss the Japanese capital’s signature sushi style: Edomae sushi, a delicacy that combines expertly compacted, wasabi-smeared rice balls with meticulously cut fish that holds onto its seasonings, resulting in maximum umami. You can find it among the other super-fresh fish and seafood at the famous Tsukiji Fish Market , as well as in the hip eateries and conveyor belt cafés of the nearby Ginza district.

Tuck into platefuls of Texas barbecue

They say everything is bigger in Texas – and when you’ve seen a plate piled high with authentic Texas-style barbecue, you’ll understand why. Here, mighty slabs of brisket are slowly cooked to perfection in custom-built pits; the sausage (usually kielbasa) comes regular or spicy, but is always satisfyingly smoky; and the ribs are a triumph of melt-in-the-mouth goodness. As if that meaty trifecta weren’t enough, if you’re lucky, your meal will come complete with a side of hushpuppies: golden, doughy, ball-shaped nuggets that are perfect for dipping.

Graze on street food in Mexico City

Tacos, quesadillas, tamales, tortas… whatever tasty morsels catch your eye in Mexico City, they’re likely to be surprisingly cheap, flavorful, and abundant. We’re not exaggerating when we say that there are thousands of food stalls to choose from among the markets of this must-visit foodie Mecca. Head over to Coyoacán Market for the best tostadas (tasty tortillas piled high with toppings), try tacos al pastor at historic restaurant El Huequito , and indulge in a crispy, rolled-up flauta or two at the excellent street food market outside the Chilpancingo Metro stop. Delicioso!

Experience South Korean cuisine in Seoul

Like South Korean TV shows, films and K-pop music, South Korean cuisine seems to be sweeping the globe right now – but if you want to try the best of the best, you should set your sights on Seoul. From fried egg-topped bibimbap (a rice dish) to grilled, marinated beef bulgogi (fire meat) and spicy-and-sour kimchi, the food here is fresh, tongue-tingling and riotously colourful. And then there’s the KFC (no, not that KFC). In Seoul, Korean-fried chicken is the crispy, crunchy fast food on everyone’s lips.

Stroll through the souks of Marrakech

Stalls, souks, spices… Marrakech is a sensory overload, in the best possible way. Inquisitive taste buds will love local delicacies like peppery snail soup, slow-steamed sheep’s head, and tehal (stuffed camel’s spleen), while mint tea, tagine, chebakia cookies, and sweet and savory chicken b’stilla pie are local treats pretty much everyone can enjoy. Then, of course, there’s the orange juice. Once you’ve tried it freshly squeezed, why not try it in delectable cake form at Nomad  – a restaurant in the medina that overlooks the famous Rahba Lakdima ('spice square')?

Experience pizza in Naples

Sure, you might be able to find good pizza pretty much everywhere in Italy these days, but Naples is an absolute must-visit if you want to try the real deal. The birthplace of the classic tomato, mozzarella and basil margherita that we know and love today, Campania’s capital is positively brimming with pizzerias: Pizzeria Oliva da Carla e Salvatore, Sorbillo and L’Antica Pizzeria Da Michele (which you may recognise from Eat, Pray, Love ) being a few our favorites.

Visit Copenhagen, Scandinavia’s foodie capital

Rød pølse (red sausages served hot dog-style), Smørrebrød (open sandwiches with every topping imaginable), and Flæskesteg (roast pork baked with spices and cloves) – the pronunciation of Copenhagen’s big-hitting dishes may be a little tricky to get your tongue around, but the flavors sure aren’t. In fact, to add to its flourishing street food scene, the city has no fewer than 13 Michelin-starred restaurants – making it Scandinavia’s undisputed gastronomic capital. Whether you choose to go high-end or quick and easy is your call.

Do a food stall crawl in Bangkok

You simply can’t go to Bangkok without sampling its street food. First of all, it's everywhere – and it’s a great way to get under the skin of the local culture. For the finest street eats of all, make your way to Chinatown, where you’ll find all manner of dumplings, pancakes, soups, and curries prepared hot and fresh from stalls billowing with aromatic steam. And who could forget pad Thai? Grab it and go, or opt for a sit-down serving at Pad Thai Thip Samai restaurant – it’s the locals’ favourite for a reason.

Satisfy every food craving in London

Welcome to the city that has absolutely everything – food-wise, at least. In London, classic British dishes like pie and mash, Scotch eggs, and Sunday roasts exist in harmony with tasty fare plucked from every corner of the globe. Just visit one of the city's bustling food markets for proof. At Borough Market you’ll find a touch of Spain at Tapas Brindisa ; at KERB King’s Cross, you’ll stumble upon Lebanese chicken shish wraps ( Lil Watan ); and at Mercato Metropolitano you’ll encounter the capital’s best gelato ( Badiani ). 

Taste hangi-cooked lamb in New Zealand

There’s a reason why New Zealand lamb is so popular around the globe. Grass-fed and raised free-range on farms with clean air and water, it’s lean, tender, and full of nutrients – and, most importantly, it’s incredibly tasty. You can find it on restaurant menus up and down the country but, for something a little different, why not try it Maori-style, cooked in a traditional hangi oven? The technique involves filling a pit with heated stones, placing leaf-wrapped lamb and vegetables on top, covering it with earth, and cooking to smoky perfection.

Feed your soul in New Orleans

Cajun and Creole food is hearty, spicy, and all-round scrumptious, and the best place to eat both cuisines is New Orleans. Prepare for a party on the streets and in your mouth as you taste your way through delights like gumbo, jambalaya and crawfish pie on a foodie crawl of the city – then quench your thirst with a rum-based Hurricane cocktail (or, if you’re feeling brave, a fluorescent green Hand Grenade). Got room for a hefty, overstuffed po’boy sandwich afterwards? No? Trust us, you’ll want one anyway.

Visit the vineyards of Mendoza

Backed by the Andes and filled with pretty, leafy avenues, Mendoza can be found deep in the heart of Argentinian wine country, and travelers say that, in harvest season (December-March), there’s nowhere quite like it. The vineyards in the surrounding countryside are the home of the Malbec grape: a deep-purple marvel of a berry whose flavor is best sampled on a winery tour. Whether you choose to go tasting in the Maipú Valley or wet your whistle in Luján de Cuyo is up to you; just don’t miss out on a grilled meat asado lunch while you’re at it.

Tuck into fish curry in Goa

What’s better than Goa’s glorious palm-lined beaches, warm winter temperatures, and beautiful architecture? Three words: Goan fish curry. The Indian state's most famous dish is also (arguably) its most delicious, thanks to its rich, flavorful blend of spices, ginger, garlic, and coconut – plus, the fish (usually shrimp, kingfish, or mackerel) is marinated in lime to give it an extra-tangy kick. There’s nothing like tucking into a bowlful at a local, family-run restaurant or a dhaba – a roadside food stall – for a true only-in-Goa experience.

Sample Singapore’s iconic eats

Singapore is a destination that punches well above its weight when it comes to mouth-watering street-food dishes. For starters, there’s tasty mud crab (chili or pepper? That part's up to you); Hainanese chicken rice (the country’s unofficial national dish); creamy, coconutty curry laksa; and the ever-controversial durian fruit, which is so pungent that eating it is forbidden in enclosed public spaces. Got room for more? Try peanutty satay, char kway teow noodles, and ice kachang (sweet iced beans) – and don’t forget to order a Singapore Sling at the iconic Raffles Hotel afterwards.

Eat healthy (and delicious) food in Bali

Bali and wellness holidays often go hand in hand. But this isn’t a destination where eating healthily is done solely for detox purposes – in fact, it’s an absolute pleasure. Wholesome, fresh, and very often grown using organic farming methods, the food at Bali’s hippest eateries is also hugely Instagrammable; think pretty smoothie bowls, colorful matcha green tea beverages, cleansing juices, and plenty of raw and vegan menu options.

Breakfast on ackee and saltfish in Jamaica

Start your day right in Jamaica with a hearty portion of ackee and saltfish – the country’s national dish. It’s a simple-but-satisfying recipe: ackee, a pear-shaped fruit brought to Jamaica from West Africa in the mid-1700s, is boiled up with saltfish, a type of dried, salted whitefish. Add vegetables and seasonings (scotch bonnet peppers, onions and tomatoes are the classics), and you’ve got a nutritious breakfast packed with Caribbean flavor.

Sample the street food of Cartagena

If you love trying new and exciting food while on your travels, Colombia’s Caribbean port town of Cartagena could be perfect for your next adventure. Street food here is cheap and plentiful, and it comes in all shapes and sizes. For breakfast on the go, try an arepa de huevo (a cornmeal cake packed with egg and ground beef); for lunch, indulge in a perrito caliente hot dog topped with cheese, crunchy potato sticks and plenty of sauces; and for dinner, go all-out with a patacón con todo – a plantain sandwich bursting with chicken, chorizo, butifarra sausage, and cheese.

Taste Middle Eastern favorites in Istanbul

There are so many reasons why Istanbul makes a wonderful holiday destination – amazing Bosphorus views, Byzantine-era palaces, a captivating blend of Eastern and Western cultures – but it’s the Turkish capital’s never-ending array of fabulous food that really excites us. Take a wander around the city and you’re sure to encounter the likes of deep-fried halka tatlisi dough rings; garlicky, tomato-y steamed burgers; sesame-studded simit (Turkish bagels); kofte meatballs; and fan favorite doner kebab, which you can find on every street corner in town.

Go wild for spicy food in Bhutan

If there’s one food mantra the Bhutanese live by, it’s that spice is king. Influenced by Tibetan, Chinese, Nepalese and Indian cooking, the food in Bhutan is richly flavorful, but it can also be very spicy due to a nationwide love of chili peppers. While you can try milder, tourist-friendly versions of regional favorites in lots of places, we recommend sampling an authentic (and super-hot) taste of what the locals eat at least once, whether it’s jasha maru chicken stew, or the nation's signature dish, ema datshi – a chili cheese that’s so beloved, it comes with almost every meal.

Experience the Melbourne Food & Wine Festival

Not content simply with having a fantastic, thriving food and drink scene every day of the year, in 1992 Melbourne decided to host an annual two-week foodie extravaganza to really hammer its culinary excellence home. After three decades, the Melbourne Food & Wine Festival is still going strong, with star-studded line-ups and culinary events happening all over the city every March and April. The festival’s signature event? The World’s Longest Lunch – an XXL three-course affair that serves around 2,000 people the finest local foods and wines. It’s so big that the nearby bars even host their own after parties.

Go wine tasting in Stellenbosch

Whether you’re a wine expert or an absolute novice, there’s no doubt that the South African region of Stellenbosch is a picturesque, sun-soaked spot to spend a holiday. But for the oenophiles among us, it’s got the added benefit of being the birthplace of some of South Africa’s most amazing wines – and there are vineyards galore to explore, thanks to the country’s hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters. From the Meerlust Estate  to  Spier Wine Farm  and  Boschendal , there are plenty of famous places to indulge in a tasting or two.

Dine on fish in Reykjavík

If you like your fish served Scandi-style – complete with stunning sea views and a snow-capped mountain backdrop – we recommend adding Reykjavík to your foodie travel bucket list. Ease your way in with tourist-friendly plokkfiskur (traditional fish stew made with cod or haddock), then get more adventurous with hardfiskur (dried fish jerky) and a world-famous Icelandic staple: fermented shark. This local delicacy is stored in boxes for six to nine weeks before being hung up to dry for several months, resulting in a pungent, almost cheese-like aroma (and an admittedly acquired taste).

Learn to make pasta in Tuscany

We’ve covered pizza, so now it’s time to talk pasta (specifically the soul-nourishing, super-fresh Tuscan variety). This central Italian region is famous not only for its gorgeous countryside and Renaissance masterpieces, but also for its pappardelle al cinghiale (broad pasta ribbons with a wild boar ragu) and tordelli Lucchese (semi-circular pasta parcels filled with a meat sauce). Fancy a true taste of Tuscan tradition? Then roll up your sleeves for a pasta-making class with Nonna Ciana (Grandma Ciana)  while you're here. Your friends and family back home are sure to thank you later.

Discover Vietnam’s street food culture

Fresh, colorful and packed with flavor, Vietnam’s street food is a world famous must-try for traveling foodies. And it’s not just the pho that’ll have you coming back for more. There's the bun cha pork patties, banh mi baguettes, and the banh xeo: Vietnam’s crispy, beansprout-stuffed take on the savory crêpe. You can find cheap on-the-go snacks pretty much everywhere, whether you’re wandering Hanoi’s Old Quarter, sauntering along the lantern-strung streets of Hoi An, or visiting Ben Thanh Street Food Market in Ho Chi Minh City.

Try fresh Mediterranean foods in Santorini

Influenced by both Western and Eastern cultures, Greece’s cuisine is a melting pot of freshly caught fish, abundant seafood, and seasonal vegetables. Spend some time in this sun-soaked corner of the Mediterranean and you’ll soon fall for its gastronomy, whether you’re enjoying a post-beach gyro stuffed with pork, salad and fries, tucking into moussaka at a family-run restaurant, or tasting the fishermen’s local catch of sea bass, octopus and lobster.

Raise a stein at Oktoberfest

While Oktoberfest might be most famous for its wide selection of beer tents and a proliferation of dirndls and lederhosen, there’s a lot more to this quintessentially German festival than sitting around sipping on steins. In between the oompah bands and chicken-dancing revellers, you’ll find a whole host of fantastic Bavarian cuisine: hefty pork knuckle, stodgy potato pancakes and dumplings, and an array of sumptuous sausages.

The cheapest and most expensive foodie cities in Europe

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Moscow Metro Tour

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Description

Moscow metro private tours.

• 2-hour tour $87:  10 Must-See Moscow Metro stations with hotel pick-up and drop-off
• 3-hour tour $137:  20 Must-See Moscow Metro stations with Russian lunch in beautifully-decorated Metro Diner + hotel pick-up and drop off. 
• Metro pass is included in the price of both tours.

Highlight of Metro Tour

• Visit 10 must-see stations of Moscow metro on 2-hr tour and 20 Metro stations on 3-hr tour, including grand Komsomolskaya station with its distinctive Baroque décor, aristocratic Mayakovskaya station with Soviet mosaics, legendary Revolution Square station with 72 bronze sculptures and more!
• Explore Museum of Moscow Metro and learn a ton of technical and historical facts;
• Listen to the secrets about the Metro-2, a secret line supposedly used by the government and KGB;
• Experience a selection of most striking features of Moscow Metro hidden from most tourists and even locals;
• Discover the underground treasure of Russian Soviet past – from mosaics to bronzes, paintings, marble arches, stained glass and even paleontological elements;
• Learn fun stories and myths about Coffee Ring, Zodiac signs of Moscow Metro and more;
• Admire Soviet-era architecture of pre- and post- World War II perious;
• Enjoy panoramic views of Sparrow Hills from Luzhniki Metro Bridge – MetroMost, the only station of Moscow Metro located over water and the highest station above ground level;
• If lucky, catch a unique «Aquarelle Train» – a wheeled picture gallery, brightly painted with images of peony, chrysanthemums, daisies, sunflowers and each car unit is unique;
• Become an expert at navigating the legendary Moscow Metro system;
• Have fun time with a very friendly local;
• + Atmospheric Metro lunch in Moscow’s the only Metro Diner (included in a 3-hr tour)

Hotel Pick-up

Metro stations:.

Komsomolskaya

Novoslobodskaya

Prospekt Mira

Belorusskaya

Mayakovskaya

Novokuznetskaya

Revolution Square

Sparrow Hills

+ for 3-hour tour

Victory Park

Slavic Boulevard

Vystavochnaya

Dostoevskaya

Elektrozavodskaya

Partizanskaya

Museum of Moscow Metro

• Drop-off  at your hotel, Novodevichy Convent, Sparrow Hills or any place you wish
• + Russian lunch  in Metro Diner with artistic metro-style interior for 3-hour tour

Fun facts from our Moscow Metro Tours:

From the very first days of its existence, the Moscow Metro was the object of civil defense, used as a bomb shelter, and designed as a defense for a possible attack on the Soviet Union.

At a depth of 50 to 120 meters lies the second, the coded system of Metro-2 of Moscow subway, which is equipped with everything you need, from food storage to the nuclear button.

According to some sources, the total length of Metro-2 reaches over 150 kilometers.

The Museum was opened on Sportivnaya metro station on November 6, 1967. It features the most interesting models of trains and stations.

Coffee Ring

The first scheme of Moscow Metro looked like a bunch of separate lines. Listen to a myth about Joseph Stalin and the main brown line of Moscow Metro.

Zodiac Metro

According to some astrologers, each of the 12 stops of the Moscow Ring Line corresponds to a particular sign of the zodiac and divides the city into astrological sector.

Astrologers believe that being in a particular zadiac sector of Moscow for a long time, you attract certain energy and events into your life.

Paleontological finds 

Red marble walls of some of the Metro stations hide in themselves petrified inhabitants of ancient seas. Try and find some!

• Every day each car in  Moscow metro passes  more than 600 km, which is the distance from Moscow to St. Petersburg.
• Moscow subway system is the  5th in the intensity  of use (after the subways of Beijing, Tokyo, Seoul and Shanghai).
• The interval in the movement of trains in rush hour is  90 seconds .

What you get:

• + A friend in Moscow.
• + Private & customized Moscow tour.
• + An exciting pastime, not just boring history lessons.
• + An authentic experience of local life.
• + Flexibility during the walking tour: changes can be made at any time to suit individual preferences.
• + Amazing deals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner in the very best cafes & restaurants. Discounts on weekdays (Mon-Fri).
• + A photo session amongst spectacular Moscow scenery that can be treasured for a lifetime.
• + Good value for souvenirs, taxis, and hotels.
• + Expert advice on what to do, where to go, and how to make the most of your time in Moscow.

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• Miscellaneous
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• Who is Penelope?

The Most Beautiful Stations on the Moscow Metro

You might have heard that there are some beautiful metro stations in Moscow. Soviet decorations, chandeliers, mosaic painting and statues are common in many of the stations. The good news is that the Moscow Metro does not cost a lot of money and many of the most beautiful stations on the Moscow metro are on the same line, so you can almost get on and off at each station to visit these. Over the New Year holidays, I had a free afternoon and decided to visit some of these stations. Check out what I found below…..

The main stations that you will want to visit are on the Number 5 line, also known as the Circle Line. An advantage of this line is that you can get to it very easily and quickly no matter where you are in Moscow. The announcements on the metro are in Russian as well as English so you don’t need to worry if your Russian language skills are not good.

If, like me, you arrive in Moscow via train from Kyiv , then you will arrive at a metro station which many Muscovites believe to be the most beautiful of them all…..

Kievskaya metro station was opened in 1954 and features white marble walls which curve upwards and have with large mosaics surrounded by a gold trim in a very classical style. The mosaics depict life in Ukraine and was designed by a Ukrainian who wanted to display Ukraine’s influence and contribution to Soviet Russia.

Kievskaya, one of the most beautiful stations on the Moscow metro

Soviet era artwork between the arches

Mosaic with golden trim

People carrying flags is a common theme

Going into battle

Belorusskaya

If you look at a map of the metro , you will want to go in a clockwise direction on the circle line. So you will want to get on the train going in the Barrikadnaya direction and not Park Kultury. Stay on this line until you reach the 2nd station, Belorusskaya. This station was built in 1952 and like Kievskaya also features white marble pylons and a plaster ceiling.

The ceiling features 12 mosaics in an octagonal shape depicting Belarusian life, while the tiling on the floor is said to resemble a Belarusian quilt. One of the passageway exits of the station has a statue called ‘Belarusian Partisans’ of three men wearing long coats, holding guns and carrying a flag.”

Belorusskaya metro platform

Soviet artwork on the roof

The hammer and sickle features prominently in the metro artwork

Three men carrying guns, holding the flag…

Mayakovskaya

To get to the next station, we need to change onto the green line (line 2) and go just one stop to the station of Mayakovskaya. This station has an art deco theme and, for some, resembles an elaborate ballroom. The columns are faced with stainless steel and pink rhodonite while the marble walls and ceiling have 34 mosaics with the theme “24-hour Soviet Sky. Apparently, Stalin resided here during the 2nd World War as the station was used as a command post for Moscow’s anti-aircraft regiment.

Mayakovskaya metro

24-Hour Soviet Sky mosaic

Bomber planes

It looks like planes flying over Red Square

Novoslobodskaya

It’s time to get back on the metro and return to Belorusskaya. At Belorusskaya, change to the circle line again and continue clockwise to the next station, Novoslobodskaya. With its 32 stained glass panels, this station reminds me of a church. The panels were designed by Latvian artists and are surrounded by a brass border.

Novoslobodskaya metro

The platform of Novoslobodskaya metro

Stained glass artwork

The golden trim around artwork is also very common

Prospekt Mira

Back on the metro and again just one stop until our next station, Prospekt Mira. This station was originally called Botanichesky Sad after the nearby Botanical Gardens of the Moscow State University. The pylons are covered in white marble and decorated with floral bas-relief friezes. The ceiling is decorated with casts and several cylindrical chandeliers.

Prospekt Mira metro station

Notice the floral decoration

Komsomolskaya

On the metro once more and once more we are going just one stop to the next station – Komsomolskaya. This station is famous for its its yellow ceiling. The chandeliers in this station are huge. The photos below do not do this station justice.  For me, this station resembles a presidential palace.  You hace to see it for yourself to truly appreciate it.

Because of it’s location, this is one of the busiest stations in the Moscow metro as it serves three of the main train stations in the city – Leningradsky, Yaroslavsky, and Kazansky so be prepared for a lot of people.

Komsomolskaya metro

The yellow ceiling seems to go on forever

Yellow ceiling and artwork

One of the ceiling mosaics

Elektrozavodskaya

When you are ready to leave Komsomolskaya metro station behind, then get back on the circle line and go one stop to Kurskaya and change to the blue line (line 3) and go to two stops to the Elektrozavodskaya station. This station gets it’s name from a nearby electric light bulb factory and has a somewhat industrial but also futuristic style, with 6 rows of circular lamps (there are 318 lamps in total). I think this is one of the most beautiful stations on the Moscow metro for how unique it is. The station was opened in 1944 after a delay because of the 2nd World War and features 12 marble bas-reliefs of the struggle on the home front during the war.

The Komsomolskaya metro station

The struggles of war at home

Fixing machinery

Hard at work

Making weapons

Building a tank

Even the station sign is elaborate

Ploschad Revolyutsii

Back on the metro line 3 (but in the other direction), getting off at the 3rd stop – Ploschad Revolyutsii (Revolution Square). This is located underneath the square in Moscow of the same name and is a short walk from Red Square in the city centre. It is the perfect place to end a visit around Moscow’s metro. The station features red and yellow marble arches with a total of 76 sculptures in between each arch. The sculptures are supposed to represent the people of the Soviet Union and include soldiers, farmers, industrial workers, children etc… I noticed a lot of people touching the golden chicken in the photo below as well as the show of the woman. I am assuming that this is for good luck.

Industrial worker

Touch the chicken for good luck

Sculpture of the people of the Soviet Union

Woman reading a book – touch the shoe for good luck

In education

Parent and child

These are some of what I think are the most beautiful stations on the Moscow metro. Which ones are your favourite? Would you add any to this list?

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19 comments.

Kievskaya definitely caught me off guard. Didn’t know Moscow metro stations were THIS extravagant! Mayakovskaya is gorgeous too with the marble walls and mosaics. I might just need to book a flight over to admire all of these!

Do it! Kievskaya was my first introduction to the Moscow metro as I got an overnight train from Kyiv.

You know, in the States, all we ever hear is bad stuff about Russia. It’s nice to see other (and lovely!) dimensions of such a controversial place.

It’s the same in the UK which is why I prefer going to see somewhere and making up my own mind. It’s all ‘politics and bullshit’ as I say

I went to Moscow about 13years for Christmas and went to train stations, so I can see these amazing mosaics and chandeliers. I agree with you that are beautiful Stations for sure and I could of wandered around for days. I think Kievskaya is definitely my favourite out of them all and I even have some similar pictures as you.

I imagine Moscow would have been a little different 13 years ago but these stations have probably always looked beautiful

Food and Footprints

You chose some great stations for this write up! Beautiful details in these stations and would love to visit them sometime. Particularly like the Komsomolskaya station with that yellow ceiling!

Thank you very much. Komsomolskaya seems to be a lot of peoples favourite stations too

Sumit Surai

Wow! Without the text I would have thought them to be some museum or gallery.

I know exactly what you mean!

Rosie Fluskey

Wow, it is just stunning! How does anyone get to work with so much to look at. I’m surprised at the very bourgeois-looking Komsomolskaya station. I would have thought it was all too Tzarist looking, but then I haven’t been to Russia yet lol. This has just made me want to go more!

Wow, that’s a lot of artwork. I wonder how old some of these pieces are?

Generally most of the stations are from 1940-1960 approximately. The later stations are more functional than style.

My mother-in-law was in Moscow fifty years ago and still raves about the metro stations. So far, I could not imagine much. But now! The pictures are great and I think it’s almost a pity that this splendor is underground. But for every user of the Metro can enjoy a free trip to the world of art. Susanne

True. It is like having a free trip to an art museum/gallery. I hope that you can one day visit Moscow and see for yourself.

Oh wow, I would never have known that these were metro stations. The ceilings remind me of how you need to look up sometimes, even in the commuter rush!

It is true about life in general, we just go from A to B looking directly in front of us instead of around us

Wow, I would have never guessed that these were stations. The decor is so pretty and not one I’m used to seeing at metro stations. Love the ceiling at The Komsomolskaya metro station.

They certainly don’t look like metro stations. The ceiling there is one of my favourites too!

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Turn Your Curiosity Into Discovery

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40 facts about elektrostal.

Written by Lanette Mayes

Modified & Updated: 02 Mar 2024

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

Elektrostal is a vibrant city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia. With a rich history, stunning architecture, and a thriving community, Elektrostal is a city that has much to offer. Whether you are a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply curious about different cultures, Elektrostal is sure to captivate you.

This article will provide you with 40 fascinating facts about Elektrostal, giving you a better understanding of why this city is worth exploring. From its origins as an industrial hub to its modern-day charm, we will delve into the various aspects that make Elektrostal a unique and must-visit destination.

So, join us as we uncover the hidden treasures of Elektrostal and discover what makes this city a true gem in the heart of Russia.

Key Takeaways:

• Elektrostal, known as the “Motor City of Russia,” is a vibrant and growing city with a rich industrial history, offering diverse cultural experiences and a strong commitment to environmental sustainability.
• With its convenient location near Moscow, Elektrostal provides a picturesque landscape, vibrant nightlife, and a range of recreational activities, making it an ideal destination for residents and visitors alike.

Known as the “Motor City of Russia.”

Elektrostal, a city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia, earned the nickname “Motor City” due to its significant involvement in the automotive industry.

Home to the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Elektrostal is renowned for its metallurgical plant, which has been producing high-quality steel and alloys since its establishment in 1916.

Boasts a rich industrial heritage.

Elektrostal has a long history of industrial development, contributing to the growth and progress of the region.

Founded in 1916.

The city of Elektrostal was founded in 1916 as a result of the construction of the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Located approximately 50 kilometers east of Moscow.

Elektrostal is situated in close proximity to the Russian capital, making it easily accessible for both residents and visitors.

Known for its vibrant cultural scene.

Elektrostal is home to several cultural institutions, including museums, theaters, and art galleries that showcase the city’s rich artistic heritage.

A popular destination for nature lovers.

Surrounded by picturesque landscapes and forests, Elektrostal offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and birdwatching.

Hosts the annual Elektrostal City Day celebrations.

Every year, Elektrostal organizes festive events and activities to celebrate its founding, bringing together residents and visitors in a spirit of unity and joy.

Has a population of approximately 160,000 people.

Elektrostal is home to a diverse and vibrant community of around 160,000 residents, contributing to its dynamic atmosphere.

Boasts excellent education facilities.

The city is known for its well-established educational institutions, providing quality education to students of all ages.

A center for scientific research and innovation.

Elektrostal serves as an important hub for scientific research, particularly in the fields of metallurgy, materials science, and engineering.

Surrounded by picturesque lakes.

The city is blessed with numerous beautiful lakes, offering scenic views and recreational opportunities for locals and visitors alike.

Well-connected transportation system.

Elektrostal benefits from an efficient transportation network, including highways, railways, and public transportation options, ensuring convenient travel within and beyond the city.

Famous for its traditional Russian cuisine.

Food enthusiasts can indulge in authentic Russian dishes at numerous restaurants and cafes scattered throughout Elektrostal.

Home to notable architectural landmarks.

Elektrostal boasts impressive architecture, including the Church of the Transfiguration of the Lord and the Elektrostal Palace of Culture.

Offers a wide range of recreational facilities.

Residents and visitors can enjoy various recreational activities, such as sports complexes, swimming pools, and fitness centers, enhancing the overall quality of life.

Provides a high standard of healthcare.

Elektrostal is equipped with modern medical facilities, ensuring residents have access to quality healthcare services.

Home to the Elektrostal History Museum.

The Elektrostal History Museum showcases the city’s fascinating past through exhibitions and displays.

A hub for sports enthusiasts.

Elektrostal is passionate about sports, with numerous stadiums, arenas, and sports clubs offering opportunities for athletes and spectators.

Celebrates diverse cultural festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal hosts a variety of cultural festivals, celebrating different ethnicities, traditions, and art forms.

Electric power played a significant role in its early development.

Elektrostal owes its name and initial growth to the establishment of electric power stations and the utilization of electricity in the industrial sector.

Boasts a thriving economy.

The city’s strong industrial base, coupled with its strategic location near Moscow, has contributed to Elektrostal’s prosperous economic status.

Houses the Elektrostal Drama Theater.

The Elektrostal Drama Theater is a cultural centerpiece, attracting theater enthusiasts from far and wide.

Popular destination for winter sports.

Elektrostal’s proximity to ski resorts and winter sport facilities makes it a favorite destination for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities.

Promotes environmental sustainability.

Elektrostal prioritizes environmental protection and sustainability, implementing initiatives to reduce pollution and preserve natural resources.

Home to renowned educational institutions.

Elektrostal is known for its prestigious schools and universities, offering a wide range of academic programs to students.

Committed to cultural preservation.

The city values its cultural heritage and takes active steps to preserve and promote traditional customs, crafts, and arts.

Hosts an annual International Film Festival.

The Elektrostal International Film Festival attracts filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts from around the world, showcasing a diverse range of films.

Encourages entrepreneurship and innovation.

Elektrostal supports aspiring entrepreneurs and fosters a culture of innovation, providing opportunities for startups and business development.

Offers a range of housing options.

Elektrostal provides diverse housing options, including apartments, houses, and residential complexes, catering to different lifestyles and budgets.

Home to notable sports teams.

Elektrostal is proud of its sports legacy, with several successful sports teams competing at regional and national levels.

Boasts a vibrant nightlife scene.

Residents and visitors can enjoy a lively nightlife in Elektrostal, with numerous bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.

Promotes cultural exchange and international relations.

Elektrostal actively engages in international partnerships, cultural exchanges, and diplomatic collaborations to foster global connections.

Surrounded by beautiful nature reserves.

Nearby nature reserves, such as the Barybino Forest and Luchinskoye Lake, offer opportunities for nature enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the region’s biodiversity.

Commemorates historical events.

The city pays tribute to significant historical events through memorials, monuments, and exhibitions, ensuring the preservation of collective memory.

Promotes sports and youth development.

Elektrostal invests in sports infrastructure and programs to encourage youth participation, health, and physical fitness.

Hosts annual cultural and artistic festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal celebrates its cultural diversity through festivals dedicated to music, dance, art, and theater.

Provides a picturesque landscape for photography enthusiasts.

The city’s scenic beauty, architectural landmarks, and natural surroundings make it a paradise for photographers.

Connects to Moscow via a direct train line.

The convenient train connection between Elektrostal and Moscow makes commuting between the two cities effortless.

A city with a bright future.

Elektrostal continues to grow and develop, aiming to become a model city in terms of infrastructure, sustainability, and quality of life for its residents.

In conclusion, Elektrostal is a fascinating city with a rich history and a vibrant present. From its origins as a center of steel production to its modern-day status as a hub for education and industry, Elektrostal has plenty to offer both residents and visitors. With its beautiful parks, cultural attractions, and proximity to Moscow, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this dynamic city. Whether you’re interested in exploring its historical landmarks, enjoying outdoor activities, or immersing yourself in the local culture, Elektrostal has something for everyone. So, next time you find yourself in the Moscow region, don’t miss the opportunity to discover the hidden gems of Elektrostal.

Q: What is the population of Elektrostal?

A: As of the latest data, the population of Elektrostal is approximately XXXX.

Q: How far is Elektrostal from Moscow?

A: Elektrostal is located approximately XX kilometers away from Moscow.

Q: Are there any famous landmarks in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to several notable landmarks, including XXXX and XXXX.

Q: What industries are prominent in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal is known for its steel production industry and is also a center for engineering and manufacturing.

Q: Are there any universities or educational institutions in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to XXXX University and several other educational institutions.

Q: What are some popular outdoor activities in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal offers several outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and picnicking in its beautiful parks.

Q: Is Elektrostal well-connected in terms of transportation?

A: Yes, Elektrostal has good transportation links, including trains and buses, making it easily accessible from nearby cities.

Q: Are there any annual events or festivals in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, including XXXX and XXXX.

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Our commitment to delivering trustworthy and engaging content is at the heart of what we do. Each fact on our site is contributed by real users like you, bringing a wealth of diverse insights and information. To ensure the highest standards of accuracy and reliability, our dedicated editors meticulously review each submission. This process guarantees that the facts we share are not only fascinating but also credible. Trust in our commitment to quality and authenticity as you explore and learn with us.

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10 things I wish tourists knew before visiting Greece, from a local

• I'm from Athens, and I've seen plenty of tourists make mistakes while traveling to Greece .
• Pace yourself if you're planning on staying out at the bars and clubs all night.
• It's worth it to do some research on smaller islands and local cuisine before your trip.

Thanks to its ancient ruins, picturesque beaches, and incredible food, Greece is one of the top tourist destinations. In 2023, over 32 million people visited.

I was born in Athens and currently split my years living between the US and Greece , so I've spent plenty of time in the beautiful European country.

Here are 10 things I think tourists should know before visiting.

There’s so much more to see in Greece than the popular islands.

It seems like everyone visits Mykonos, Santorini, and maybe Paros, but Greece has over 220 inhabitable islands. Plus, most of them are more budget-friendly than the popular spots.

I recommend looking into places like Kimolos, Astypalaia, Paxoi (also known as Paxos and Paxi), or Folegandros.

The Greek mainland is also beautiful. There's a lot to see there, from UNESCO sites at Delphi and Meteora and the turquoise waters of the Peloponnese to the stunning mountains and villages of Epirus.

Athens is more than the Acropolis.

Athens has great nightlife , restaurants, museums, and cool neighborhoods like Plaka, Exarcheia, Psyrri, and Pangrati.

Tourists who just swing by to check the Acropolis off their list are missing out. I've always found it to be one of the liveliest cities in the world.

You don’t need to tip 20%.

Greek servers generally rely on hourly wages, so there isn't the same tipping culture as the US .

I normally just round up the bill or leave a couple of Euros on the table as a tip — unless I had exceptional service or dined at a more formal (and tourist-oriented) restaurant.

Pace yourself when drinking alcohol.

A lot of travelers take advantage of Greece's lax attitude toward alcohol restrictions. Coupled with the fact that Greek bars and clubs close pretty late (like 4 a.m. late), some tourists get sloppy.

Locals usually intersperse drinks with food and water so they can last the whole night, and I recommend tourists do the same.

Slow down and take Sundays off.

Greeks have a pretty relaxed relationship with time — people often arrive late and stores may open half an hour after they said they would.

Service in Greece can seem slow to people from more fast-paced places, especially on the quieter islands . A lot of stores and supermarkets are also closed on Sundays, even in Athens.

I know this can be annoying at times, but I recommend just enjoying the slower pace of life.

Don’t try to visit too many islands on one trip.

So many people ask me if they can fit four or five islands into a seven-day trip, and I never recommend it. Take your time and enjoy each destination for at least a couple of days.

Half the joy of the Greek islands is getting to destress. If you're hopping from ferry to ferry and running around to cover the highlights, you'll miss out on the best parts of the country.

Be sensitive about natural disasters.

I never thought I'd have to say this, but I have seen multiple tourists in the last few years posting about how "pretty" the skies or sunsets are thanks to the glow from raging wildfires .

At a time when a lot of Greek people are wondering if their houses are still standing or their loved ones have gotten to safety, it's a pretty insensitive thing to do.

Don't skip out on experiencing a traditional taverna.

Athens and other popular Greek destinations now have a lot of upscale restaurants with cuisines from all over the world. But make sure to eat in a traditional taverna at least once.

A taverna is a casual restaurant with family-style dining. Diners can spend hours in them chatting with friends while sharing food paired with some great wine or ouzo (a Greek aperitif).

Greek food is more than just gyros.

Well-known dishes like gyros and souvlaki are truly delicious, but Greek cuisine is so much more than that.

For example, a lot of Greeks start their day with a tiropita (cheese pie) and freddo coffee. Each region also has local specialties that I recommend inquiring about.

In tavernas, popular menu items include calamari, octopus, all kinds of fish, grilled and fried cheeses (like saganaki and halloumi), and side dishes like fava.

Learn a few local words.

Most younger Greek people understand English, but you may run into problems communicating with older people — especially in more rural areas.

Even if a local person can understand you, I think it's nice to learn a few simple words and phrases like "good morning," "thank you," and "how are you?"

It's nice when tourists make a little bit of an effort.

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More From Forbes

Chef aarón sánchez is ‘talking sabor’ and all things latin in new hulu series.

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Talking Sabor with Aaron Sanchez show is available now on Hulu.

Before pressing “play” on the new Hulu series Talking Sabor with Aarón Sánchez there should be a warning label on the screen that says something like: “This show will put a smile on your face, make you very, very hungry, and regain belief in the American Dream.” The new series, which premiered on April 24, is a partnership between Pepsi and the Cocina production company. Heard throughout the series from Chef Sánchez, it is “unapologetically Latin,” and celebrates culture, food, identity, and the personal stories of the families featured in each episode.

With Cyn Santana on episode seven, in New York.

Sánchez says this has been one of the most personally rewarding experiences. “It’s an exciting time, when a lot of first-generation Latinos are coming back to their roots.” And for many, Pepsi’s Juntos Crecemos program is making that much easier. The over $50 million initiative shines a light on small Hispanic businesses, like those featured in Talking Sabor , and helps with access to capital, mentorship, and marketing.

The series takes place in four American cities with diverse communities: Houston, Miami, Los Angeles, and New York. In each episode Sánchez is joined by a special guest—many of whom are celebrated Latino artists, musicians, athletes, and chefs—and together, they taste the foods of two different restaurants and learn the backstory of each family establishment. Sánchez picks out an appetizer, his guest chooses an entrée, then they drive to a location to sit and explore the chosen dishes, while dishing about food, culture, family, and more.

It’s in the Genes

Sánchez knows a thing or two about what each of the families featured have experienced. Long before becoming a television personality, his world revolved around food. From his grandmother’s kitchen to his mother’s restaurants, being in the kitchen has just always made sense. As he explains to the Barcenas family at their restaurant in South Houston, “I wasn’t a good student, I was incorrigible. So, for me, the kitchen was my salvation. It gave me mentorship, it gave me structure...” Sánchez’s mom, Zarela Martinez, is considered a pioneer of Mexican food in New York, so he knows how powerful the trifecta of food, hard work, and community can be. Essentially, those are the elements that become the core of each episode and Tasting Sabor, on a whole.

Viewers learn that so many of the families featured started with very little; in some cases, they made a radical move from other jobs, and started with a cart or food truck. Today, they’ve become beacons for gathering in their respective neighborhoods and cities. “What we do in restaurants is special,” Sánchez says. “When giving back to the community this way, you can feel it. It’s like a big hug...You’re doing something beautiful,” he tells the Barcenas family who has been feeding their community in Houston for 25 years.

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Viewers can’t help but notice what seems to be a mash-up of a couple of familiar shows that blend guests, cars, and conversation. It feels very much like a fun fusion between Carpool Karaoke and Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee with a heavy dash of Sánchez’s animated personality and, of course, delicious food.

Getting ready to feast, with Pepsi or Pepsi Zero Sugar featured in each episode.

And, Sánchez is all in. He might just be the most animated, physical, food celebrity around, as he cheers, claps, snaps, and dances with each bite. “You have to do a little happy dance when something is tasty, ok?” he tells Marlon Esparza , and his guest in episode four when they visit Guanatos Grub, Mexican restaurant in her hometown of Houston. Esparza is the first American woman winner (2012, London) of any Olympic boxing medal.

When asked if there were any surprises discovered amidst this venture, Sánchez was quick to respond. “I was surprised by how many of the elders relinquished their recipes,” he said. The show features different dishes from families of Central and South American, Mexican, and Caribbean descent. “The patriarchs and matriarchs were so open to the younger generations taking the the reins.” Sánchez said he was also very impressed by the fact that the chefs were truly “unapologetically Latin” by not compromising recipes for new palates, and “stuck to their guns” despite the chance of dishes being unfamiliar or new to many diners.

Guests of the show include: comedian Jesús Trejo, telenovela star Adriana Fonseca, Chef Wes Avila, Olympic boxer Marlen Esparza, singer and actress Amara La Negra, singer Zabdiel de Jesús, artist Cyn Santana, and musician Justin Quiles.

One Last Note

Each episode ends with a sweet, surprise dessert that each family restaurant gives Sánchez and his guest, accompanied by a heartfelt note. “If I start to cry, back me up with a hug,” Sánchez says to guest and fellow chef Wes Avila in episode three as they share the food in front of the Nasa Space Center. “We’re all dedicated to the same mission, bro... just making people happy through food.”

With guest, Chef Wes Avila, and the owners of Barcenas in Houston, Texas on episode three.

Next stop for Talking Sabor ? Speaking of being unapologetic, Sánchez knows full well that coverage of four diverse Latino communities just scratches the surface and there’s more ground to cover. “The more information we can put out there to a large audience, the more they viewers can have an appreciation and understanding of the cultures that are represented.’’

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Oviedo Oyster House

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1340 Alafaya Trl

Oviedo, FL 32765

East Orlando

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In the opening stage, spectrum was there working on TVs. Place looks good. The server was super nice and attentive. Food was good. We all enjoyed our meals. Looking forward to a return visit!

Slow service but they just opened so somewhat excusable. Oysters weren't sucked appropriately. They were left attached to the adductor so you had to dig at the muscle with a fork, ruining the oyster. For an oyster spot this is pretty inexcusable. Oysters were low quality, green, murky, and still dirty. Crackers were stale. Cocktail sauce wasn't terrible but the horseradish topping was watery. The bartender was also seen cleaning out the dirty ice chest cooler with a shop vac. She went outside to dump the murky water.m, wiped her hands on her pants and went right back to serving food and pouring drinks.

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College sports | arizona cardinals pick hurricanes cornerback jaden davis in final round of nfl draft.

Jaden Davis spent one season with his hometown Hurricanes , and that vaulted him into the professional ranks.

The Arizona Cardinals picked Davis, who is a St. Thomas Aquinas alum, with the 226th pick in the seventh round of the NFL draft on Saturday. Davis is the second Hurricane picked in this year’s draft, following safety Kam Kinchens. 

Davis was a standout for the powerhouse Raiders, earning Super 11 and first-team All-County honors . He was a four-star prospect and the No. 25 cornerback in his class, according to 247Sports.

Davis, a 5-foot-10, 180-pound cornerback, signed with Oklahoma out of high school and spent four seasons with the Sooners before transferring to UM.

In his one year with the Hurricanes, Davis earned a starting role and was a solid contributor. Davis had 32 tackles, three tackles for loss, one sack and four pass deflections. Pro Football Focus gave him a 76.8 defensive grade and a 72.1 coverage grade.

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