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Renata Molinari Borges da Costa
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From India to Japan, Italy to Denmark, here are the best food destinations in the world. It will make you salivate!
A big appetite and an open mind - that's what you need to travel the world as a food enthusiast. With over 100 countries, the variety is impressive and can leave the first-time traveler a little overwhelmed when planning a route. However, some countries are really hard to miss when it comes to delicious cuisine. Below is our list of the best places to eat around the world.
independent
India blesses us with aromatic and colorful foods from all walks of life. Famous and proper street food in Delhi catches the eyemomos, parathas, EUchaat.
Parathas are a versatile type of bread that can be eaten at any time of the day with all kinds of fillings, attracting travelers and locals alike. Momos, on the other hand, are a kind of dumplings from Tibet. Steamed and served with toppings, foodies are sure to fall in love with this famous street food.
Lastly, fried chaat dough, like parathas, can have a variety of fillings depending on preference and local availability. Some of the most popular fillings include:aloo chaatwhat does potato meanbhel puri chaat,which means a pie stuffed with vegetables, tamarind sauce and puffed rice. When it comes to the best places to eat around the world, India offers an incredible variety for every palate.
Photo by Tanuj Handa via Pixabay
Dania
Despite the cold climate, Denmark is a popular destination for foodies. Awarded 31 Michelin stars in recent years, this Scandinavian country is an emerging destination with dishes that preserve its heritage and fresh ingredients. Wienerbrød, or Danish pastry as most people know it, is a must when visiting the country. This cake is usually sweet, but takes different variations depending on who makes it, so it will please both those who like savory dishes and those who like sweet.
Æbleskiver is another delicious local dessert that resembles a pancake stuffed with apples and sprinkled with sugar, very popular during the festive season, so if you visit Denmark in December, be sure to try it! Finally, rye bread and beer porridge is a more modern take on food culture left over from the Viking Age.
Aebleskiver. Photo by Michael Meinecke via Wikimedia Commons
Japan
Noodle lovers (especially vegans and vegetarians), get ready for the feast you'll have in Japan! While Tokyo is a popular and cosmopolitan choice, some equally surprising gourmet spots include Kawagoe on Honshu and Morioka. When in Kawagoe, be sure to try their sweet potato dishes (which are their specialty), like imo koi, an oval tea snack wrapped in yam and mochi flour, stuffed with sweet potato and tsubu, or red bean paste.
For Morioka, find a place where you can sip your bowlWanko soba, a creature that can only be found in that particular city. The fun of eating wanko soba is that it comes in small bowls and they pile up as the napkins are refilled each time. At the end of the meal, you can build a skyscraper out of noodle bowls!
Finally, check out Kunisaki and Beppu on the island of Kyushu and ask fordango tree, thick wheat noodles cooked with mushrooms, carrots and onions in miso soup, a combination that cannot go wrong.
Wanko Soba. Photo: 663Highland via Wikimedia Commons
Egypt
If you only know Egypt because of its pyramids, think again, because this place is becoming a hub and synonymous with good food. Walking through the streets of Cairo, it's hard not to be tempted to delve into the flavors of local cuisine, such asbarracks, fuul,EUtaameya.
The first two are considered more substantial meals that can easily keep you full throughout the day. Koshary consists of lentils, rice, pasta and chickpeas mixed together and topped with a spicy tomato sauce, vinegar is also added to the mix in some places. Fuul is a dish of cooked broad beans combined with various Egyptian spices, usually served with pita bread.
For breakfast, try taameya, an Egyptian fava bean falafel. Finally, Egypt is also rich in desserts, with an extensive gourmet menu to choose from, includingbaklava, remember, but, EUknafa.
Quarter. Photo: Dina Said via Wikimedia Commons
France
Romantic by nature, France attracts lovers from all over the world, including gourmets. Places like Grenoble, Strasbourg and Lyon (outside of Paris, of course!) offer great alternatives to more traditional dishes that include meat and sometimes even animal cruelty like foie gras.
In Grenoble, for example, we recommend that gourmets try its famous dishespotato casserole- grated creamy potato. In addition to this delicious starchy dish, Grenoble is also famous for producing large amounts of nuts and dried fruits. That's why tasting some of the sweets in the few patisseries in the city is a must for anyone planning a trip to France.
In turn, Strasbourg offers gastronomic tourists a taste of thistarte flambée, exceptionally rectangular pizza. Its base is covered with a paste made from a combination of crème fraiche, onion, cheese and mushrooms. Strasbourg is also known for mixing some German elements into its cuisine, using sweet onions in soups and pies.
Tarte Flambee. Photo by Markus Spiske via Pixabay
Spain
The land of parties, siestas and flamenco in Spain already has a place in our hearts. Vibrant and incredibly tasty cuisine, some of Spain's favorites include tapas, gazpacho, pisto and, for the more adventurous, pimientos de padron. Because they are ubiquitous in Spain, these dishes will be served across the country, but each has its own style and variety.
For example, tapas is a small snack that can be consumed at any time of the day, whether for breakfast, lunch or an afternoon snack. Gazpacho, spicy tomato soup seasoned with garlic, onion, salt, oil, vinegar, among others. Although the most common idea for tomato soup is that it is served hot, in Spain gazpacho is served cold to go well with hot summer days in the countryside.
Spanish ratatouille is called pisto! This vegetarian creation is as popular as tapas. The recipe calls for tomatoes, onions, garlic, zucchini, peppers and olive oil. It's a delicious combination that is sure to keep foodies coming back for more!
gaspacho. Photo by Aline Ponce via Pixabay
Mexico
Mexico is a must-visit for a spicy and healthy food journey - one of the world's favorite foodie destinations. While Central and South America is known for its meat-heavy diets, there are also options for vegetarians and vegans. For example, street food likeelotes(grilled corn on a stick),pizza(pocket sandwiches stuffed with toppings of your choice), tacos withquestion(cheese), avocado and onion andgiftare (or can be) vegetarian and vegan food for a hungry tourist. Famousquesadillasthey are also a good choice for a meatless meal.
For dessert you can choosechurros, usually sprinkled friendly cakemilk creamor fresh fruit from the nearest street stall. Finally, eggs, beMexicanlubricantHuevos Rancherosare very common and promise to keep gourmets satiated enough to enjoy the rest of the trip until the stomach growls again and it's time for the next meal. Delicious!
tacos. Photo: Marco Verch via Flickr
Italy
Old but golden Italy is still one of the best places to eat anywhere in the world. Pizza, pasta and ice cream are the basic triad that makes this country so famous for its amazing and delicious food. These three, while traditional, are neither the beginning nor the end of Italian cuisine.ribollita, originally a Tuscan dish, is a hearty vegetable soup with bread instead of meat. The reason for this is that this recipe was favored by the poor peasants of Tuscany, but has now become one of the most coveted dishes in the region, despite its humble beginnings.
The starch feast is followed by the Italiansrisotto. While rice isn't a staple in this country as it is throughout Latin America, there's no denying that the creamy and flavorful dish definitely deserves a spot on this list. This dish appeals to all types of gourmets, including vegetarians, vegans, gluten-free people and carnivores. If you're looking for the best risotto, head to Milan. To make the dish even tastier (and more sophisticated!), try adding truffle shavings to it - it's sure to make you dance while you savor it.
Sicilian cuisine serves us as a quick snackRice balls, fried rice ball stuffed with tomato sauce, mozzarella, peas and other small vegetables. If you want this dish to be vegan and vegetarian, be sure to ask the waiter about the filling and how you can customize it to your liking.
Finally, a stopover in Italy would not be complete without tiramisu. This after-dinner dessert is the perfect way to end the night. Seemingly simple layers of sugared mascarpone cheese interspersed with sponge cake soaked in instant coffee and finally sprinkled with a thin layer of cocoa and ground coffee is a sweet tooth's paradise and will certainly delight those who prefer savory dishes. The truth is that Italy is a paradise for foodies and their taste buds!
Risoto. Photo: Ordago via Wikimedia Commons
Traveling is a fun and enriching experience that can also be tasty! When planning your next trip, add these amazing food places from around the world to your list and enjoy the best food possible.
Have a nice trip!
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FAQs
Gourmet Paradise: The best places to eat around the world? ›
Japan, Tokyo
As of 2023, Tokyo has the world's most Michelin-starred restaurants, over 200 of them. Their culinary scene is packed to an exceptional standard and often credited to traditional street vendors who are incredible at adding a Japanese twist to foreign dishes.
| Year | 1st | 2nd |
|---|---|---|
| 2017 | Eleven Madison Park | Osteria Francescana |
| 2018 | Osteria Francescana | El Celler de Can Roca |
| 2019 | Mirazur | Noma |
| 2021 | Noma | Geranium |
Japan, Tokyo
As of 2023, Tokyo has the world's most Michelin-starred restaurants, over 200 of them. Their culinary scene is packed to an exceptional standard and often credited to traditional street vendors who are incredible at adding a Japanese twist to foreign dishes.
Why The Fat Duck And Osteria Francescana Will Not Be Ranked In World's 50 Best Restaurants. The move likely stems from critiques that the list has become stale and predictable, with a band of usual suspects topping the ranking year after year.
Which country is food heaven? ›Malaysia's reputation as the food paradise is well-known to the world.
What is the only 7 star restaurant in the world? ›Head to Al Iwan restaurant at Burj Al Arab, dubbed to be "the world's only 7-star hotel".
What is the #1 best restaurant in the US? ›But in 2022 Michelin returned in full force, evaluating restaurants across the country. And after four years without a new restaurant notching three Michelin stars, the little red guide bestowed its highest honor to Addison in San Diego.
Where do the ultra rich eat? ›- Catch L.A. — Los Angeles, California. ...
- Chef's Table at Brooklyn Fare — Brooklyn, New York. ...
- Alinea — Chicago, Illinois. ...
- Lío — Ibiza, Spain. ...
- Sukiyabashi Jiro — Tokyo, Japan. ...
- Carbone, New York City — New York.
How much does it cost? The lunch and dinner menus run from 250 euros to 270 euros (roughly $290 to $315 USD). Optional wine pairings are an additional 140 euros to 180 euros. Translation: A fully loaded dinner for two can easily top out at over $1,000.
Where to stay when eating at Osteria Francescana? ›- Hotel Rua Frati 48 in San Francesco. Rua dei Frati Minori, 48, Modena, Italy |luxury hotel. ...
- Best Western Premier Milano Palace Hotel. ...
- L'Altana di Emilia Suite. ...
- Emilia Suite Urban. ...
- Central Park Hotel Modena. ...
- Hotel Principe. ...
- Hotel Cervetta 5. ...
- Rmh Modena des Arts.
How much does it cost to eat at Massimo Bottura? ›
One can opt for the $135 five-course tasting menu, which actually seems reasonably priced.
What country is #1 for food? ›China is the place to go to get food shock a dozen times a day. “You can eat that?” will become the intrepid food traveler's daily refrain. China's regional cuisines are so varied it's hard to believe they're from the same nation.
Which country is No 1 in food? ›In the global list released of the best known cuisines of the world in the year 2022, Italy got the first place, followed by Greece and Spain in the second and third places respectively.
Which US state has the best food? ›Hawaii's food is the best in the country, and Nevada's culinary scene is underrated. I found decadent and delicious feasts in Louisiana, South Carolina, and Tennessee.
What star is Gordon Ramsay's restaurant? ›Holding three Michelin stars, Gordon Ramsay's flagship restaurant on Royal Hospital Road showcases elegant modern French cuisine, the finest seasonal ingredients, and both classic and innovative culinary techniques.
What should you tip in Dubai? ›Waitstaff: While most restaurants will note that taxes and service charge have already been included in the bill, it's still common for diners in Dubai to tip the service staff. A figure between 10% and 15% is customary, but this is dependent on the quality of service.
What restaurant has the highest Michelin rating in the world? ›| Rank | Restaurant | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Central | Lima, Peru |
| 2 | Azurmendi | Larrabetzu, Spain |
| 3 | Atelier Crenn | San Francisco, United States |
| 4 | Le Bernardin | New York, United States |
- Clam Chowder. ...
- Bagel and Lox. ...
- Deep-Dish Pizza. ...
- Drop Biscuits and Sausage Gravy. ...
- Texas Barbecue. ...
- Hominy Grits. ...
- Tacos. ...
- Thanksgiving.
Thomas Keller – 7 Michelin stars
He's the most decorated chef in America, currently holding 7 stars. He's also the only American chef to hold all six out of his total seven stars simultaneously.
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — For the eighth straight year, the popular fast-food chain Chick-fil-A was ranked as America's favorite restaurant, according to the American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI).
What billionaire eats fast food? ›
Warren Buffett eats McDonald's for breakfast, drinks 5 Cokes a day, and devours cookies and ice cream. Here are the investor's 11 best quotes about his iconic diet. Warren Buffett may be a billionaire businessman in his 90s, but he eats like a child.
What is the most expensive food on earth? ›- Saffron. If your rice is luminous yellow, then the chances are it's been sharing a saucepan with saffron. ...
- Caviar. ...
- Oysters. ...
- White Truffle. ...
- Iberico ham. ...
- Wagyu beef. ...
- Kopi Luwak coffee. ...
- Foie gras.
New York. New York is undoubtedly the continent's holy grail for food lovers. With tons of Michelin starred restaurants, culinary institutions and home grown dishes, the Big Apple consistently delivers for foodies.
Which country has best street food? ›- So where in the world is the best street food on offer? ...
- Mexico City, Mexico. ...
- Marrakech, Morocco. ...
- Cartagena, Colombia. ...
- You''ll find so much variety, from deep fried insects, kebabs, snake and silkworm to Muslim foods and more luxurious street food dishes.
Overall, the Netherlands, France, and Switzerland were in the top three for the best food systems. For the latest happenings in the food and drink world, visit our Food News page.
What is the most expensive menu restaurant in the world? ›Each year, Sublimotion ranks as the most expensive restaurant in the world. Sublimotion only allows 12 diners to partake in gourmet cuisine prepared by a team of 10 Michelin star chefs each night. The concept pairs cuisine with technology and staging to turn the table into a stage and its diner into a star.
How expensive is Gucci Osteria? ›Gucci Osteria will serve both lunch and dinner. Guests will also get to choose between a four-course lunch ($128++), a seven-course lunch ($228++) or a seven-course dinner ($278++).
Where is the most expensive restaurant in the world located? ›With an average price of $2,400 a head, Sublimotion in Ibiza is the most expensive restaurant in the world. A voyage through food, time and space. World-renowned chef Paco Roncero has built a gastronomic universe based on unique multi-sensory experiences.
In what city is the world's best restaurant located? ›1. Central (Lima, Peru): Named the world's best restaurant for 2023, Central has led the way in putting Lima center stage on the global culinary map.
What restaurant is at the top of the pyramid? ›After taking a ride up the country's tallest free-standing elevator, enjoy the views of Memphis, Tennessee with a specialty drink and delicious meal at The Lookout.
How many Michelin stars does Osteria Francescana have? ›
Three MICHELIN Stars: Exceptional cuisine, worth a special journey!
What is the most expensive meal ever served? ›1. Grand Velas Tacos $25,000. The most expensive dish in the world, this taco features Kobe Beef, Almas Beluga Caviar & Black Truffle Brie Cheese and is served on a gold flake-infused corn tortilla.
How much is Marco Polo dinner buffet? ›Buffet from Friday to Saturdays are of regular prices at Php 1,850 for lunch, and Php 2,500 for dinner. Sundays and Public Holidays are at Php 2,650.
What food is Massimo Bottura known for? ›Ground breaking signature dishes such as Bottura's Tortellini Walking on Broth signalled his intent as a revolutionary chef. The six pasta parcels placed in a line on a broth set with gelatine was initially met with disapproval by traditionalists in Modena.
Why are American portions so big? ›Farmers were able to grow food more cheaply by using fertilizer, pesticides and herbicides. In the 1970s, the government began subsidizing farmers to grow more food. Over time, companies have increased their serving sizes to increase their profits, and we all caught on.
Who has the best cuisine in the world? ›Italy tops the list: “Italian food has captivated taste buds around the world for centuries, with its zesty tomato sauces, those clever things they do with wheat flour and desserts that are basically vehicles for cream.” Just behind Italy is China, whose “regional cuisines are so varied it's hard to believe they come ...
Which cuisine is the best in the world? ›- Italian cuisine. 4.72. Best rated foods. ...
- Greek cuisine. 4.69. Best rated foods. ...
- Spanish cuisine. 4.59. Best rated foods. ...
- Japanese cuisine. 4.59. Best rated foods. ...
- Indian cuisine. 4.54. Best rated foods. ...
- Mexican cuisine. 4.53. Best rated foods. ...
- Turkish cuisine. 4.52. Best rated foods. ...
- American cuisine. 4.51.
- Pizza.
- Burger.
- Ramen.
- Paella.
- Pierogi.
- Moussaka.
- Boeuf Bourgignon.
- Eisbein.
Which states have the best USDA prime beef? Kansas, Nebraska, and Texas are among the top states for producing high-quality beef. These states have ideal conditions for raising cattle, including ample grass for grazing and a suitable climate for growing feed crops.
What is the #1 chain restaurant in the United States? ›McDonald's is the number one restaurant chain in America based on both sales and number of locations, and it has over 36,000 restaurants in over 100 different countries.
How many Michelin 1 star restaurants are there in the world? ›
That may sound like a large number. But in a world of 195 countries and a population of nearly eight billion people, the reality is that Michelin Star restaurants are rare. Of that total, There are 2,290 restaurants with a single Michelin star, 414 restaurants with two stars, and 113 restaurants with three stars.
Which country has the best quality food? ›- Italy. #1 in Has great food. #14 in Best Countries Overall. ...
- Mexico. #2 in Has great food. #33 in Best Countries Overall. ...
- Spain. #3 in Has great food. #16 in Best Countries Overall. ...
- Greece. #4 in Has great food. ...
- Thailand. #5 in Has great food. ...
- France. #6 in Has great food. ...
- Turkey. #7 in Has great food. ...
- India. #8 in Has great food.
- Clam Chowder. ...
- Bagel and Lox. ...
- Deep-Dish Pizza. ...
- Drop Biscuits and Sausage Gravy. ...
- Texas Barbecue. ...
- Hominy Grits. ...
- Tacos. ...
- Thanksgiving.
Gordon Ramsay – 7 Michelin stars
Known for his volatile kitchen demeanour and exceptional British cuisine, Gordon Ramsay is arguably the most famous chef in the world. Although he's been awarded 16 Michelin stars throughout his career, he currently holds seven.
Top editors give you the stories you want — delivered right to your inbox each weekday. For a restaurateur, there is no greater accolade than being awarded a prestigious Michelin star. Well, except for being awarded two or, the top award, three. The Michelin Guide is, in the eyes of many, a fine-dining bible.
Is there a 5 star Michelin? ›Four Seasons Hotel George V, Paris becomes the First Palace in Europe to house three restaurants recognized by the Coveted Michelin Award for a total of five stars.
What city has most Michelin stars? ›Cities with the most Michelin-starred restaurants worldwide 2022. Tokyo was the city with the most Michelin-starred restaurants in the world as of January 2022, with 203 of the Japanese capital's eateries boasting at least one of the tyre giant's coveted stars.
What chef has most Michelin stars? ›1. Joël Robuchon: 31 Michelin Stars. Many consider the late French chef Joël Robuchon the best chef of the modern age. And with 31 Michelin stars spread across three continents, it's hard to argue this claim.
What's the most Michelin starred restaurant? ›Le Bernardin Restaurant – New York
It is one of the restaurants which is highly regarded and is famous among the local food lovers. In fact, it is the highest Michelin star restaurant. New York city's culinary scene is incomplete without the mention of this exquisite restaurant which is run by Chef Eric Ripert.