food fusion
destinations! These places offer a lot more than just food, though. Just saying.Why Foodie Tourism?
Ok so you like food but you’re not exactly crazy about it. So why foodie travel? Think back to the most amazing experiences in your life. Do you also remember any smell associated with those memories? Yes? Mostly smells of fresh food cooking in a nearby restaurant, bakery or a food cart? Plus, it’s all the learning. Want to learn how to toss a pizza naturally? Head to Naples. Want to try out a huge variety of pasta sauces? Italian villages. Paella? Head to Spain. Let every aroma take you back to the best food you’ve ever eaten – on your foodie vacation.
1. France
food worth traveling the world for
!2. Italy
Tried your hand at making homemade pasta? Not working? Head to Italy. Best place to learn how to make those rich sauces and pasta that is just perfect. Tuscany is your best bet for top wines, amazing antipasto on vineyard terraces and designer food tours. Bologna is another destination, particularly the Emilia-Romagna region, for its wines and amazing cuisine. Naples is your destination for pizzas, sponge cakes soaked in rum, deep-fried macaroni and the most amazing pasta dishes.
3. Japan
Japanese food – so different and so unique. Tokyo’s sushi is simply amazing – the freshest fish presented most delicately and artistically. Want something truly authentic? Head to the little back alleys or get to a dive bar. Head to the outer market in Tsukiji for some street foods that don’t even have names. Ramen, takoyaki, gyoza – Japanese egg rolls – these are must-try dishes. Be sure to attend a beautiful tea ceremony. Head to Osaka if you want to try some Okonomiyaki, a fabulous dish made out of meat, fish, and veggies.
4. Argentina
Argentina is a land of fabulous food and wines, plus breathtaking views of the great Andes mountain range. Head to Mendoza and go on a wine tasting tour. You’ll get to enjoy a multi-course lunch along with some impressive wines. Enjoy the views, drink as much as you like, and feast on the world’s best Asado (barbecue), chimichurri, provoleta, dulce de leche and other lip-smacking delicacies.
5. Turkey
Turkey is a great foodie destination. Just sit for breakfast at a traditionally laid out Turkish mezze and you’ll understand. Try the simit, a pretzel-shaped bread, and Turkish falafel. Every meal is served with olives, cheese and a range of Turkish salads. Head to the Istanbul open market for the food stalls which offer incredible Turkish food and desserts. Don’t miss out on the Baklava, fabulous doner kebabs and other foods.
6. Spain
Spain – the land of bullfights and the greatest global food destination. Head to San Sebastian, a region that’s overpopulated with Michelin-starred chefs. Lounge on La Concha Beach and enjoy the fabulous little meals at the local bars. Spain’s Rioja wine region has terrific home-style restaurants. Try the Catalunya region as well – the range of foods, gourmet offerings and recipes you get here is simply amazing.
7. New York City
For all its hurry and bustle, New York City is one of the most important culinary capitals of the world. Everywhere in the city, you’ll find restaurants headed by Michelin-starred chefs, street food carts and bars offering outrageously good food. Check out the food at Cosme, Le Bernardin and Eleven Madison Park. New York City’s restaurants cover every fabulous cuisine in the world – a visit to NYC is just like visiting the entire world.
8. Thailand
Almost everyone loves Thai food. If you want authentic Thai taste, head to the street vendors in Bangkok. You can sign up for food tours and cooking classes too. Whether you eat at street stalls or at Michelin-starred eateries, you’re sure to get the best of taste, artful food display and quality. Head to Wang Lang Market, Chatuchak weekend market and Chinatown Market for the best street food. Be sure to try the sticky rice with mango – the best dessert ever!
9. Peru
Frommer’s is an authority when it comes to lists, and Peru has been named the Food and Drink Destination in all of South America. That should tell you something. Here you’ll find not just Spanish cuisine, but Chinese, Japanese and others. It’s a multicultural county, owing to its immigrant population. Don’t forget to try the Peruvian paella, chicharrones and seafood delicacies. Chefs such as Gaston Acurio of La Mar are busy applying contemporary twists to traditional dishes.
10. Denmark
Copenhagen, the capital city, is home to a restaurant that’s listed in the World’s 50 Best Restaurants, called Noma. If you can manage to get into this restaurant, you’ll be in foodie heaven, with Chef Rene Redzepi’s very contemporary and innovative menu. Copenhagen is rife with fabulous hotels such as Amass, Sanchez, and 108. Copenhagen’s restaurant Relae is your haunt if you’re into organic food. The industrial area named Refshaleøen is full of eateries and food stalls where you can get fabulous food for cheap.
Conclusion
We’ve covered some of the world’s amazing food haunts, but there are more. South Africa is turning into quite the foodie destination, as is Australia, especially Melbourne, with its incredible multi-cultural cuisines. When you go on a foodie vacation, be sure to check for food tours that explore both fancy restaurants and famous street stalls. It’s the best way to get a real taste of the area.
