One of my favourite things to do while travelling is to sample the local food. Whether it is a busy street in Bangkok or a trendy market in Melbourne you will find me there sampling everything I can get my hands on. Here are my top 10 must-visit foodie cities around the world.
Bangkok, Thailand:
Underneath the chaos of Bangkok's busy streets lies a culinary wonderland, where the chaos of the markets and the aromas of the street vendors welcome food enthusiasts from around the world. While you will find many delicious versions of the international Thai classics such as Pad Thai and Tom Yum soup in Bangkok, Thailand's capital city is a paradise for the more adventurous palates.
Don't miss the vibrant night markets, where you can sample crunchy fried insect snacks as well as delicious local delicacies like Hoi Thot, a crispy oyster or mussel pancake that is stir-fried with eggs and bean sprouts and served with a chilli sauce or popular local fruits like Durian or Som Tum a spicy green papaya salad.
If you are a foodie in Bangkok, you absolutely must eat at the Michelin-starred restaurant headed by the famous chef Jay Fai. Raan Jay Fai., which was featured in an episode of the Netflix series Street Food: Asia, is best known for its huge crab omelette and their drunken noodles.
Melbourne, Australia:
Melbourne will captivate food lovers with its eclectic mix of flavours from around the globe. You will find trendy Australian cafés serving up avocado toast and great coffee, hidden laneway restaurants and bars offering innovative food & cocktails as well as neighbourhoods and areas of the city which are dedicated to international cuisines.
For the best selection of Asian foods in Melbourne head to Chinatown in the city centre or the suburb of Footscray, for Italian food head to Lygon Street aka Little Italy and for Greek Food jump on the train or tram to the suburb of Oakley or sample a Giros Platter at the iconic Staligtites in Melbourne's CBD.
Melbourne is a melting pot of gastronomic delights. Be sure to explore the city's renowned markets such as the Queen Victoria Market and South Melbourne Market where you will find a selection of fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, delicious desserts and other gourmet delicacies.
Cork, Ireland:
I have to mention my hometown Cork City, the food capital of Ireland. Cork is a charming city on Ireland's southwest coast. Embrace the warmth of traditional Irish hospitality as you sample the freshest seafood, hearty stews & soups served with freshly baked soda bread, and creamy Guinness pies at cosy local pubs. Or opt for more upscale options like the Michelin Star dining experience at Ichigo Ichie.
In the heart of Cork, you will find the famous English Market. A food market that is over 200 years old. You can find the very best of fresh Irish produce, as well as hot food and cosy cafés. Sample Irish & international products such as olives from The Real Olive Company, cheese from On the Pigs Back, and chocolate from The Chocolate Shop. If you want breakfast or lunch on the go grab a sausage sandwich or a portion of sausages & fried potatoes from O'Flynn's Gourmet Sausage Company or if you prefer to sit down you can head upstairs in the market for fresh and delicious Irish food from the Farmgate Café.
For more ideas of restaurants to try in Cork, read my recent posts: The Best Restaurants in Cork City and Cork vs. Dublin - Why Cork is the Best City to Visit in Ireland!
Bogotá, Colombia:
Immerse yourself in the vibrant flavours of Colombia's capital city, where every meal is a celebration of colour, spice, and passion. Savour the delights of empanadas and arepas and the robust flavours of Colombian coffee. Explore the bustling streets of the historical centre of Bogotá, known as La Candelaria, where vendors dish up mouthwatering Colombian food favourites or indulge in a traditional ajiaco soup at a local eatery.
New York City, USA:
New York City's diverse culinary landscape offers something for every palate, from iconic New York-style pizza slices and bagels to exotic flavours from almost every corner of the globe. Whether you're sampling authentic dim sum in Chinatown, devouring pastrami on rye in Midtown, or indulging in a gourmet tasting menu in Tribeca, New York's culinary scene never fails to impress.
Villetta, Malta:
Nestled on the picturesque island of Malta, the capital city Villetta enchants visitors with its Mediterranean charm and delectable cuisine. From fresh seafood caught daily in the sapphire waters of the Mediterranean to hearty Maltese stews and pastries, along with a strong Italian influence, Villetta offers a taste of paradise to foodies and unexpecting tourists alike. Don't miss out on the opportunity to indulge in a meal overlooking the sparkling sea, accompanied by a glass of wine and the warm embrace of the Maltese sun.
Amsterdam, Netherlands:
Experience the culinary delights of Amsterdam, a city where tradition meets innovation on every plate. Indulge in savoury Dutch pancakes and stroopwafels at bustling street markets, sample local cheeses or savour the delicate flavours of Indonesian rijsttafel at a cosy canal-side restaurant. Don't miss the opportunity to explore Amsterdam's thriving craft beer scene, with trendy breweries and tasting rooms offering a diverse selection of local brews.
Tokyo, Japan:
Step into a world of culinary perfection in Tokyo, where precision, artistry, and tradition converge to create unforgettable dining experiences. From the elegant simplicity of sushi and sashimi to the robust flavours of ramen and yakitori, Tokyo offers a feast for the senses. Indulge in a kaiseki banquet at a traditional ryokan, or sample the latest culinary innovations at a highly renowned restaurant—whatever your preference, Tokyo's culinary scene promises to leave a lasting impression.
Seoul, South Korea:
Discover the soul of Korean cuisine in the bustling streets of Seoul, where ancient traditions and modern flavours collide in a symphony of taste and texture. From sizzling Korean barbecue and spicy kimchi to savoury pancakes and bubbling hot pots, Seoul's flavour-packed food scene is a testament to the country's rich culinary heritage. Visit markets like Gwangjang Market, where vendors serve up an array of street food delights.
Taipei, Taiwan:
Experience the vibrant flavours of Taiwan's capital city, where street food reigns supreme and every alleyway hides a culinary gem waiting to be discovered. From the iconic night markets of Shilin and Raohe to the bustling food stalls of Yongkang Street, Taipei offers a gastronomic adventure like no other. Sample mouthwatering dishes like beef noodle soup, stinky tofu, and pineapple cake, and wash it all down with a refreshing bubble tea—a true taste of Taipei's culinary magic.
Food has the remarkable power to transcend cultural boundaries, ignite the senses, and create unforgettable memories. Whether you’re savouring a bowl of steaming ramen in the backstreets of Tokyo or digging into a hearty Irish stew in a cosy Irish pub, each destination offers a culinary adventure that etches itself into your memory.
These experiences reveal the common thread that binds us all together – everyone loves food! It’s in these moments, over shared meals, that we see the similarities between cultures and traditions, and how food becomes a universal language of connection and understanding between us all!
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