Foodie tourism – it’s a thing. What better way to explore a travel destination than by letting your taste buds lead the way! Doing your research on the local food scene is a must if you’re looking for the ultimate experience. Whether you’re setting out for a quick getaway or celebrating a special milestone on your trip, you’ll want to do it right when it comes to the menu.
These up-and-coming foodie cities all have something in common – pride in their local cuisine. From up-and-coming fusion food to longstanding recipes, there’s something for every style of traveler. Some of these locations fly under the radar but you’ll see that they offer something a little extra on your plate. Here’s where to go and what to eat on your next foodie adventure:
1. Aix-en-Provence, France
Think of French food with a Mediterranean twist. Paris is typically known worldwide for having a delectable selection of mouth-watering food; but its counterpart in the South is at the very top of our list. Why? Aix-en-Provence produces delightfully considerate cuisine that is somehow even more tantalizing in its slower-paced surroundings. Think the slow food movement combined with a farm-fresh je ne sais quoi.
What You’ll Eat
- Bouillabaisse: A fish stew known specifically to the Provencal area.
- Ratatouille: Enjoy it in all its glorious forms.
- Farm-fresh dishes that seem simple but will outshine anything you’ve ever had before: chicken, beef stew, tapenades, and glorious neverending cheese plates.
2. Mendoza, Argentina
Already known worldwide for its outstanding Malbecs, it’s no wonder Mendoza ups the ante with great eats to match. From traditional empanadas in all their forms to outstanding cuts of red meat, Mendoza is pure class when it comes to local cuisine. You’ll enjoy delicious pastries and outstanding views as you dine.
What You’ll Eat
- Parilla: A variety of meats cooked locally over an open flame or grill.
- Ojo de Bife (rib-eye steak) and a side of perfectly paired Malbec.
- Empanadas Mendocinas are traditional in this region and gloriously filled with egg, olive, onion, and spiced meat.
3. Savannah, USA
A city with a vibrant, rich culture, you’re sure to find some amazing southern comfort food in Savannah, Georgia. The historical city already attracts millions of visitors every year. It’s home to some of the top chefs and it has become a magnet for fusion food.
What You’ll Eat
- Fusion plates — anything and everything you can think of all paired with amazing local craft beer and an American twist.
- Shrimp and grits: What makes it special is the local shrimp off the boat and the fact that you can enjoy it for breakfast, lunch or dinner.
- Fried chicken in all its fabulous flavors.
4. Oahu, USA
Eat like a local and let the flavors melt in your mouth! Oahu is a food lover’s paradise and it’s easy to see why. With Hawaiian food staples you don’t want to miss, your taste buds will be in for a gastronomic adventure. You can easily walk your way through the best street food on the island or treat yourself to an unforgettable fine-dining experience.
What You’ll Eat
- Acai bowls: A smoothie in a bowl, this dish combines acai berries with anything your heart desires.
- Kalua pork is Oahu’s staple and you’ll find variations of it everywhere you eat out.
- Guava everything!
5. Florence, Italy
Florence is known as one of the most colorful and eclectic cities in Italy. Its food is no different. Think fresh vegetables, mushrooms, and al dente pastas. There are so many amazing cities in Italy, but when it comes to great food, Florence is our top up-and-comer.
What You’ll Eat
- For meat lovers, try Bistecca alla Fiorentina or Peposo beef stew — both are prized dishes in this region of Italy.
- Cinghiale (wild boar) is a specialty in Florence and you’ll find it served in several variations, most commonly with pasta.
- The simple tagliatelle with porcini and truffles is another pasta dish you don’t want to miss out on.
6. Shanghai, China
Shanghai is a bustling populous megacity and its food culture is rooted in two main styles of cuisine — Benbang and Haipai. Both include subtle sweet flavors, steaming, broiling, and intricate design.
What You’ll Eat
- Soup dumplings or xiaolongbao are served in bamboo steamers with flavors of ginger and various fillings.
- Find yourself feasting on hundreds of variations of sumptuous dumplings all steamed, fried, boiled, and seasons to taste.
- Seafood is fresh and plentiful — you’ll enjoy it barbecued, street market style, or cooked on the spot and served fresh to order as the season offers.
7. Chicago, USA
Chicago has more to offer than hot dogs. This midwestern metropolis is a culinary dream and you can eat your way through it too. Explore pockets of Chicago’s unique neighborhoods including the West Loop, Chinatown, Ukrainian village, and Lincoln Square. With its clusters of ethnic villages, Chicago offers world-class cuisine around every corner but locals do have their favorites:
What You’ll Eat
- Deep-dish pizza is a must-try and you can find several restaurants in the city offering their own deep-dish recipes.
- Mexican fare is a popular choice since Chicago boasts a large Hispanic population and tacos al pastor are an easy-to-find and authentic favorite.
- You know about the hot dogs but you’ll easily find the most flavorful burgers served in diners around the city at all hours of the day.
8. Stockholm, Sweden
You’ll find more than Swedish meatballs and pickled herring in Stockholm. Sweden’s emphasis on the seasons and warm, hearty dishes make it a unique experience for your taste buds. You’ll enjoy comfort food and seasonal fare influenced by the city’s rich heritage.
What You’ll Eat
- Kalops is a must-try winter stew seasoned with Swedish spices and slow-cooked to perfection.
- Kroppkakor is a potato dumpling of sorts, served with fried pork in the center or other seasonings.
- Falukorv is a type of sausage with a history that stems back to Swedish miners in the 16th century.
Now get ready to tantalize those taste buds and eat your way through the town of your choice. These unmissable stops are welcoming to every palate!