If you’ve ever traveled to another country and made an effort to eat at traditional restaurants then you have already partaken in culinary tourism. However, culinary tourism is more than just eating and drinking in restaurants in different countries. There are food tours, cooking lessons, as well as food events and festivals. Food gives us an insight to a country’s culture, history, influences and much more. Let’s take a look at some famous culinary destinations worldwide.
Bangkok, Thailand
If you are looking for an amazing street food experience, look no further than our Southeast Asian neighbor. Thailand in general has some great food. Whether you thoroughly enjoy spice, or you like a more hearty soup, or creamy curry, Thailand has it all. It doesn’t matter which region or area you go to, you’ll be sure to find delicious street food probably a block or two away from your hotel. Try and visit the local markets and explore the flavors you can’t find anywhere else. Who doesn’t love a good Pad Thai or Mango sticky rice?
Tokyo, Japan
Calling all sushi (and meat) lovers! Japan is of course the home of the best sushi and sashimi. You’ll be able to find the freshest catch and experience their national dishes. However, if you are part of the no-fish team. That’s okay too! You can always indulge in non-fish dishes like ramen, yakitori, and of course the famous Wagyu or Kobe beef. For the ultimate unforgettable Japanese culinary experience, try out an omakase or kaiseki style lunch or dinner. It is a multi course degustation of seasonal and traditional produce. Fun fact: Did you know that Tokyo has the most Michelin Star awarded restaurants? The city boasts of around 200 restaurants that between them have 263 Michelin Stars.
Lyon, France
Lyon is often known as the gastronomic capital of France and for good reason too! This region of France has many things to offer aside from the quaint old towns and picturesque architecture. Brush up on your French and look out for wonderful dishes such as Saint-Marcellin cheese, Lyonnaise salad, Quenelles, and Tarte Lyonnaise. Soak up Lyon’s rich history while also exploring its culinary scene with over 4,000 restaurants as well as vineyards, food halls, food markets, and food festivals throughout the year.
Tuscany, Italy
This farming region of Italy has a lot to offer like some of the world’s finest produce but also when it comes to flavor and cooking. Its rustic and traditional dishes will be sure to satisfy. Of course we also cannot forget about the wine. If you ever find yourself in the area make sure to try the wine and cheese which are made locally and maybe pick up on some pasta making tips and tricks too. When we think of Italian food, pizza and pasta usually come to mind first, but there are other dishes we should consider too like Bistecca Alla Fiorentina, Panzanella, Lampredotto, and Castagnaccio.
The next time you land in another country or even take a long drive away from your city, try finding a local food or drink tour you can join. Not only will you be surprised and most likely satisfied by an array of flavors, textures, and backstories but you might even learn a little something extra along the way.
Eating locally is probably one of the best things you can do when exploring a new place. Even if you are traveling domestically, just going from one region to another, you can learn more and understand that place better through food. Authentic dishes tell us a story. Where the ingredients came from, who harvested them, how they are prepared and mixed together, the flavors, and how it is consumed can tell us a lot about a place and the people. Furthermore, it does not only give us a look into the culture but it also builds a new sense of appreciation and of course broadens our (taste bud) horizons!
Comments