Unsurprisingly, many people choose their holiday destination based on food and wine. Therefore, destinations for foodies are those cities that give big choices of restaurants, excellent cuisines, flavorful street stalls and most importantly affordable prices.
Uniquely, for people who take food seriously, we have curated a list of our top 7 foodie destinations. These places should be on your bucket list.
7. Beirut, Lebanon
Beirut has some of the most diverse and delicious cuisines in the region. With many influences from the French, Ottoman, Armenian, Palestinian and Syrian culinary touches. Accordingly, there are many exquisite dishes that are a must try when visiting Lebanon. The Lebanese mezas are similar to other mediterranean cuisines like the Greek, but retain their own distinctive flavor.
The salads are an essential part of the meal. Therefore, many varieties emerge and all are very healthy. However, Fattoush and Tabbouleh may be the king of every dining table. Then comes Hummus, Warak Enab (Vine Leaves) and the main dishes that range from the delicately spiced Kafta (minced-meat skewers) and their chicken and meat Shawarmas. In Lebanon you should always end with a beautiful Knefe or Othmallieh as a dessert for a complete meal.
"Let food be thy medicine, and let medicine be thy food”-Hippocrates
On the other hand, make sure not to miss their famous bakeries and sweet shops. These are already open on each corner with super affordable prices. Also, try Manakeesh for breakfast. A dough filled with wild thyme or cheese.
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6. Chiang Mai, Thailand
A street food lover’s paradise and dear destination. Chaing Mai is one of the few cities that immerses you with food options and brilliant places to eat. There is an endless amount of food stalls and food markets. As a result, you get in a muddle as to where to start.
Northern Thai cuisine is not for the faint-hearted. Consequently, do not stick on the Pad Thai and Tom Yum. Try their braised chicken and fried noodles drowned with coconut curry broth and their fried pork sausage. The city is truly one of the best destinations for foodies.
5. Paris, France
The City of Lights and romance is a delicacy for food lovers. Paris restaurants are among the best if not the top in the world. From authentic French bistros to street foods, Parisian dining will delight everyone.
You can start with pastries for breakfast. Correspondingly, visit a Boulangerie (bakery) for fresh Baguettes or try sweet and savory Crêpes on the streets. You can have a fancy dinner with Michelin Star chefs or simply visit Marché de Rungis, the largest food market in the world.
4. Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo is one of the food capitals and gourmet hubs in the world. With diners ranging from noodle shops to fine Kaiseki (traditional multi-course Japanese dinner) restaurants.
These places serve the best and ultra-fresh Sushi, Ramen and delicious curries. What we can assure you is that the country has so much to offer for foodie travelers and a trip of a lifetime.
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3. San Sebastián, Spain
San Sebastián, or Donostia to the Basque, separating between Spain and France, is one of the largest gastronomic destinations. The region is blessed with natural resources and is home to some of the best seafood in the world. Additionally, they serve their own unique tapas as Pintxos. These are usually pieces of bread, topped with a variety of different ingredients.
This dish is what helped San Sebastián to achieve its culinary status. San Sebastián is known for rustic Pintxos bars and avant-garde Michelin star restaurants. The city has no fewer than 18 Micheline stars, and appears on peer lists with Paris and New York.
2. Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul is bursting with history, culture and most importantly incredible food. Consequently, the dining options are plentiful in the city. The best foods in Istanbul pulls influences from the world, which makes it truly unique.
The list of things to eat and try has no end from Simit, Doner, Kumir, Borek, Menemen to a fresh fish sandwich called Balik Ekmek. Fishermen cook their catch of the day near Galata Bridge. We can keep listing endless options…
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1. Johannesburg, South Africa
Johannesburg offers an amazing array of dining options featuring cuisine from around the globe. A plethora of fine-dining and sweet food options this city has to offer.
Moreover, you get to experience the whole of Africa when visiting this city. The streets are jam-packed with attractive Somali, Mozambican and Eritrean Cafes. Therefore, Johannesburg is a gem in the destinations for foodies.
