One of the best parts about traveling is getting to try unique flavors and cuisine from around the world. Eating is a great way to understand whatever destination you’re traveling and to immerse yourself in the local way of life. Here we’ve rounded up five of our favorite must-visit cities for food lovers, from street vendors selling local specialties, to Michelin star restaurants. Each city on this list offers incredibly unique food experiences that foodies need to cross off their bucket list!
Paris, France
When you think of great food, you think of Paris. Fresh baguettes, croissants, duck confit, crepes, steak frites, escargot, cheese...it’s all these items and more that are why this city is the gastronomic hub of France. It doesn’t matter whether you’re getting a crepe from a street vendor or sipping champagne at an acclaimed restaurant in the city, you’ll have the meal of a lifetime in Paris.
Avoya Insider Tip: When in Paris, make sure to try some fresh, authentic, artisanal cheese at any of the local cheese shop. These delicious, raw-milk cheeses are the best in the world!
Buenos Aires, Argentina
If you enjoy steak and red wine, then Buenos Aires is the spot for you. The cuisine is derived from Spanish, European, and French influences. Although the most important staple is beef, Buenos Aires is becoming one of the top eating destinations in the world thanks to other dishes like traditional empanadas, mouthwatering choripan sandwiches, and street food at local parrillas (meat vendors).
Avoya Insider Tip: In the foodie world, Buenos Aires is known for its ‘puertos cerradas’, or closed door restaurants that are typically located inside the chef’s home. It is one of the most sought-after dining experiences in the country, so do your research beforehand and make a reservation!
Tokyo, Japan
With 226 Michelin starred restaurants (yes, 226!), it’s easy to see why Tokyo is one of the world’s greatest foodie cities. You’ll find the best sushi and sashimi in the world (made from the absolute freshest fish), ramen, yakitori, kaiseki, onigiri, and tempura, among other delicacies. In Tokyo, eating is a way of life, and its people are truly devoted to food!
Avoya Insider Tip: When in Tokyo, you must experience ‘Shabu-shabu’, or the Japanese hot pot. You cook meat or vegetables in a pot of hot water and dip in various sauces. It’s meant to be a slow dining affair and is a must-do to experience Japanese culture!
Florence, Italy
Florence has a medieval history that still influences the food that is served today—recipes and cooking styles date all the way back to the Medici period. Local ingredients such as truffles, olives, tomatoes, and porcini mushrooms are all are key in Florence cuisine. Florence is most well known for its Bistecca alla Fiorentina, (Florentine steak), Papardelle al Cinghiale (ragu pasta), and Tagliatelle Funghi Porcini e Tartufo (truffle mushroom pasta).
Avoya Insider Tip: For authentic cuisine at a great price, head to the Mercato Centrale di San Lorenzo. There you’ll find some of the best meats, cheeses, fruits, and vegetables and get an authentic Florence experience while you’re at it!
Barcelona, Spain
Food in Barcelona is a blend of traditional and innovative Catalan cuisine. Regardless of whether you prefer old or new, food is a huge part of life in Barcelona and most people plan their day around what/when they are eating! When in Barcelona, be sure to order traditional menu items such as Tapas, which range from patates bravas to manchego cheese, and Paella, a delicious rice dish with different types of seafood.
Avoya Insider Tip: Meals are typically eaten much later in Spain and Barcelona. The main meal of the day is lunch, typically from 2-4, and dinner, the lighter meal, is served anywhere from 9-11:30pm!
Satisfy your taste buds by booking your next culinary adventure now. There’s no better way to understand another culture than by eating and drinking like the locals do. For a life-changing gastronomic and cultural experience, look no further than these 5 food-loving cities!
Book a trip to these incredible cities now:
