For foodies, traveling to different countries can be an exciting adventure. Trying new and exotic dishes, experiencing different flavors and spices, and learning about the culture and history behind each dish can be a truly enriching experience. But with so many countries to choose from, it can be challenging to decide where to go. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best countries to visit for foodies.
Table of Contents
Top 8 Countries for Foodies
Italy
Italy is one of the must-visit countries for foodies. It’s home to some of the world’s most beloved cuisines. Authentic Italian food is known for its simple, fresh ingredients and traditional cooking techniques. Italian cuisine varies by region but generally features a variety of pasta dishes, such as spaghetti carbonara, as well as pizza, risotto, and hearty meat dishes like osso buco or bistecca alla fiorentina. Italian food places a strong emphasis on the use of bold fresh herbs and vegetables, such as basil, tomatoes, eggplant, and zucchini, as well as high-quality olive oil and cheeses like mozzarella, parmesan, and ricotta. Desserts like tiramisu and cannoli are also popular in Italian cuisine. Don’t forget to try the world-famous Italian wines, such as Chianti and Barolo.
Click here for our travel guide to Venice or Here for our Travel Guide to Verona
Top 5 Dishes to Try in Italy
- Pizza Margherita: A classic pizza made with tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil. (source: The Culture Trip)
- Lasagna: A baked dish made with layers of wide, flat pasta, meat sauce, and cheese. (source: TripSavvy)
- Risotto: A creamy rice dish cooked with broth and various ingredients such as mushrooms, seafood, or vegetables. (source: The Culture Trip)
- Gelato: A type of Italian ice cream made with milk, sugar, and various flavors such as chocolate, fruit, or nuts. (source: The Culture Trip)
- Ossobuco: A Milanese specialty of cross-cut veal shanks braised with vegetables, white wine, and broth. (source: Bon Appétit)
Japan
As far as countries for foodies go, Japan is dream-come-true, with unique, healthy, and delicious cuisine. From sushi to ramen to tempura, Japanese cuisine is all about precision and attention to detail, making it one of the best countries for foodies. Japanese food is known for its emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients, minimal use of oil and fat, and delicate flavors. Rice is a main ingredient of the Japanese diet and is often served with a variety of side dishes such as miso soup, pickles, grilled fish, and vegetables. Seafood is also a common ingredient in Japanese cuisine, with sushi and sashimi being popular dishes.
Other famous Japanese dishes include tempura (battered and deep-fried seafood and vegetables), udon and soba noodles, and donburi (rice bowls topped with meat, fish, or vegetables). Japanese cuisine also features a variety of condiments and seasonings, such as soy sauce, mirin (sweet rice wine), and wasabi (a spicy green paste). Don’t forget to try the sake, a traditional Japanese rice wine.
Click here for our travel guide to Shinjuku
Top 5 Dishes to Try in Japan
- Sushi: A dish made of vinegared rice topped with raw fish or other seafood. (source: The Culture Trip)
- Ramen: A noodle soup dish with various toppings, such as sliced pork, seaweed, and green onions, in a rich broth. (source: BBC Good Food)
- Tempura: Deep-fried seafood, vegetables, or other ingredients coated in a light batter. (source: Japan Travel)
- Udon: Thick wheat flour noodles in a hot soup broth, typically served with various toppings such as tempura, green onions, and grated daikon radish. (source: Japan Talk)
- Tonkatsu: A dish made of breaded and deep-fried pork cutlet, typically served with shredded cabbage and tonkatsu sauce. (source: Japan Rail Pass)
Thailand
Thailand is a foodie’s dream come true, with a rich and diverse cuisine bursting with flavor. Authentic Thai food is known for its bold and complex flavors, which are achieved through various herbs, spices, and seasonings. Thai cuisine features a balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors and often includes ingredients such as lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, chili peppers, fish sauce, and palm sugar. the diversity of flavors makes Thailand one of the best countries for foodies.
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Rice is a staple of the Thai diet, often served with various curries, stir-fries, and noodle dishes, such as pad thai or drunken noodles. Popular Thai dishes include tom yum soup, green curry, and mango sticky rice for dessert. Thai cuisine also features a variety of street food options, such as grilled meats, satay skewers, and papaya salad, which are often sold from food carts and stalls. Overall, authentic Thai food is known for its bold, spicy, and aromatic flavors, emphasizing fresh ingredients and balancing of flavors. An absolute favorite of mine is the refreshing Thai iced tea. I 110% recommend it.
Top 5 Dishes to Try in Thailand
- Som Tam: Shredded green papaya salad with tomatoes, carrots, peanuts, dried shrimp, runner beans, palm sugar, tamarind pulp, fish sauce, lime juice, garlic, and plenty of chillies. (source: Culture Trip)
- Tom Yam: A spicy and sour soup made with shrimp, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, galangal, lime juice, fish sauce, and chillies. (source: BBC Good Food)
- Pad Thai: Stir-fried rice noodles with egg, tofu, peanuts, bean sprouts, and a sweet and sour sauce. (source: THAIest)
- Green Curry: A spicy curry made with coconut milk, green chillies, lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, and meat or vegetables. (source: Culture Trip)
- Massaman Curry: A mild and creamy curry made with coconut milk, potatoes, peanuts, and meat or vegetables. (source: Lonely Planet)
Spain
Authentic Spanish food is known for its regional diversity, with each region of Spain having its own unique cuisine and specialties. However, some common ingredients and dishes are found throughout the country. Spanish cuisine often features a variety of seafood, meats, and vegetables, focusing on fresh, high-quality ingredients. Some popular Spanish dishes include patatas bravas (fried potatoes with a spicy sauce), pulpo a la gallega (Galician-style octopus), and fabada asturiana (a hearty bean stew). Those who consume alcohol should squander the opportunity to try authentic sangria, a refreshing and fruity wine-based drink. Spain is one of the best countries for foodies and for beverage enthusiasts.
Top 5 Dishes to Try in Spain
- Paella: A rice dish cooked with saffron and various ingredients such as seafood, chicken, or vegetables. (source: Lonely Planet)
- Tortilla Española: A thick omelette made with potatoes, onions, and eggs. (source: The Culture Trip)
- Gazpacho: A cold soup made with raw vegetables such as tomatoes, cucumbers, and peppers, blended with bread, olive oil, and vinegar. (source: BBC Good Food)
- Churros con Chocolate: Deep-fried dough pastry served with a thick hot chocolate dipping sauce. (source: The Culture Trip)
- Patatas Bravas: Fried potato cubes served with a spicy tomato sauce or aioli. (source: Bon Appétit)
Mexico
Mexico is one of the best countries for foodies with a cuisine that’s both bold and flavorful. Mexican cuisine is all about the perfect balance of spices and flavors, resulting in dishes that are both savory and satisfying. Though Mexican cuisine varies by region, it generally features a variety of dishes that incorporate corn, beans, chili peppers, tomatoes, and avocados. Mexican cuisine also features a variety of sauces, such as salsa verde and mole, which are used to add flavor and spice to dishes. Other popular Mexican ingredients include cilantro, lime, and cumin.
Don’t forget to try the margaritas, a refreshing and tangy cocktail!!
Top 5 Dishes to Try in Mexico
- Tacos al Pastor: Thinly sliced pork marinated in a blend of spices and chilies, then cooked on a vertical spit and served on a corn tortilla with pineapple and onion. (source: The Culture Trip)
- Guacamole: A dip made with mashed avocado, onion, tomato, chili pepper, lime juice, and salt. (source: BBC Good Food)
- Chiles en Nogada: A dish made with poblano peppers stuffed with a mixture of ground meat, fruits, and spices, then topped with a creamy walnut sauce and pomegranate seeds. (source: The Culture Trip)
- Mole: A sauce made with chili peppers, chocolate, and various spices, typically served over chicken or pork. (source: Eater)
- Tamales: A traditional Mexican dish made of masa (a dough made from corn), filled with meat, cheese, vegetables, or sweet ingredients, wrapped in a corn husk, and steamed. (source: The Culture Trip)
These five countries offer some of the world’s best cuisines, making them must-visit destinations for foodies. Whether you’re a fan of Italian pasta or Mexican tacos, there’s something for everyone in these culinary hotspots.
France
France is known for its sophisticated cuisine and is not only one of the top countries for foodies, but it is often considered the culinary capital of the world. From the buttery croissants to the rich foie gras, French food is a treat for the senses. The country has numerous Michelin-starred restaurants that offer exquisite dining experiences. Paris, the capital city, is a food lover’s paradise with its famous street markets, patisseries, and brasseries that serve classic French dishes. It should come as a surprise to no one that France is one of the top countries for foodies.
Top 5 Dishes to Try in France
- Croissants: A flaky, buttery pastry made with layers of dough and butter, typically served for breakfast or as a snack. (source: The Culture Trip)
- Coq au Vin: A dish made with chicken braised in red wine, bacon, mushrooms, and onions. (source: TripSavvy)
- Crème Brûlée: A dessert made with a rich custard base topped with a layer of caramelized sugar. (source: The Culture Trip)
- Ratatouille: A vegetable stew made with eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, onions, garlic, and tomatoes. (source: BBC Good Food)
- Escargots: Snails cooked in garlic butter and served as an appetizer. (source: The Culture Trip)
India
India is a foodie’s dream destination, with its diverse range of regional cuisines that offer a unique blend of spices, flavors, and aromas. From the fiery curries of the south to the creamy kormas of the north, Indian cuisine is a treat for the taste buds. Street food is an integral part of the Indian food culture, and the country has some of the best street food in the world. Mumbai’s famous vada pav, Kolkata’s mouth-watering puchkas, and Delhi’s spicy chaat are some of the must-try dishes for foodies visiting India. India is without a doubt one of the top countries for foodies.
Top 5 Dishes to Try in India
- Butter Chicken: A dish made with marinated chicken cooked in a creamy tomato-based sauce with spices and butter. (source: The Culture Trip)
- Biryani: A rice dish cooked with meat or vegetables, spices, and herbs, typically served with raita (yogurt-based dip). (source: BBC Good Food)
- Masala Dosa: A thin, crispy crepe made from fermented rice and lentil batter, typically stuffed with a spiced potato filling and served with chutney and sambar (lentil-based soup). (source: The Culture Trip)
- Chana Masala: A vegetarian dish made with chickpeas cooked in a spicy tomato-based sauce with onions, garlic, and ginger. (source: Rainforest Cruises)
- Samosas: A popular snack made with a crispy pastry shell filled with spiced potatoes, peas, and sometimes meat, then deep-fried. (source: The Culture Trip)
Peru
Peruvian cuisine is a fusion of indigenous, Spanish, and Asian flavors that offer a unique culinary experience. Peru is one of the countries for foodies that is known for its fresh seafood, grilled meats, and colorful vegetables that are used in dishes like ceviche, lomo saltado, and ají de gallina. Lima, the capital city, is a food lover’s dream destination with its numerous restaurants that offer traditional Peruvian cuisine with a modern twist. The city has several food markets where visitors can sample local delicacies and purchase fresh produce. The historicity of cooking styles and fusion of diverse cultural ingredients make it one the top countries for foodies.
Top 5 Dishes to Try in Peru
- Ceviche: A dish made with raw fish marinated in citrus juices, onions, chili peppers, and cilantro. (source: The Culture Trip)
- Lomo Saltado: A stir-fry dish made with marinated strips of beef, onions, tomatoes, and french fries, served with rice. (source: Rainforest Cruises)
- Aji de Gallina: A creamy chicken dish made with aji amarillo (yellow chili pepper), bread, milk, cheese, and nuts. (source: The Culture Trip)
- Anticuchos: Grilled skewers of marinated beef heart, typically served with potatoes, corn, and a spicy sauce. (source: Peru Hop)
- Papa a la Huancaína: A dish made with boiled potatoes topped with a creamy sauce made from aji amarillo, cheese, milk, and crackers, served with boiled eggs and olives. (source: The Culture Trip)
Countries for Foodies Honorable Mentions
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Greece offers simple, fresh Mediterranean fare showcasing olives, feta, seafood, lamb and veggies grilled to perfection. Though seemingly simple, the flavors are unique, fresh and super craveable, making Greece one of the top countries for foodies.
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South Korea is renowned as one for the best countries for foodies for its healthy, vibrant cuisine with kimchi as a staple alongside barbecue meats, bi bim bap and more.
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Turkey, where East meets West, kebabs are roasted to perfection and baklava is a true art form. Don’t miss the flavors of Istanbul.
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Vietnam presents light, fresh dishes featuring herbs, noodles, seafood and street food like pho and banh mi sandwiches, with regional specialties abounding.
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Ethiopia’s unique cuisine centers around injera flatbread used to scoop hearty stews flavored with berbere spices in a cultural setting. It is well-known that Ethiopia’s cuisine is delicious and that it is one of the best countries for foodies.
Picking the Best Countries for Foodies: Factors to Consider
With so many great options to choose from, finding the best countries for foodies to visit can be a daunting task. However, there are a few factors you can consider before booking a trip.
Cuisine Diversity
One of the essential factors to consider when choosing a country to visit as a foodie is the diversity of its cuisine. A country with a diverse culinary scene will offer a wide range of flavors and dishes to try. For example, countries for foodies like India, Thailand, and Mexico are known for their diverse cuisine, which includes spicy, sweet, and savory dishes.
Local Markets and Street Food
Another factor to consider wh en picking the best countries for foodies is the availability of local markets and street food. These places offer a unique culinary experience that allows travelers to taste authentic local dishes. Known countries for foodies, like Thailand, Mexico, and India are famous for their street food culture, which offers a wide range of dishes at affordable prices.
Fine Dining and Michelin Stars
For travelers who prefer a more upscale dining experience, it is essential to consider the availability of fine dining restaurants and Michelin-starred establishments. Countries for foodies like France, Italy, and Spain are known for their fine dining scene and have numerous Michelin-starred restaurants that offer a unique culinary experience.
Food Festivals and Events
Finally, food festivals and events are another factor to consider when choosing a country to visit as a foodie. These events offer an opportunity to taste local dishes and experience the country’s culinary culture. Countries for foodies like Thailand, Italy, and Spain host numerous food festivals and events throughout the year that attract foodies from around the world.
Famous Food Festivals Around the World
- Taste of Chicago, USA: A food festival held in Chicago, Illinois, featuring local and international cuisine, live music, and family activities. (source: Travel + Leisure)
- La Tomatina, Spain: A tomato-throwing festival held in Buñol, Spain, where participants throw tomatoes at each other in the streets. (source: The Culture Trip)
- Oktoberfest, Germany: A beer festival held in Munich, Germany, featuring traditional German food, music, and carnival rides. (source: Travel + Leisure)
- Taste of London, UK: A food festival held in London, England, featuring food from some of the city’s best restaurants, cooking demonstrations, and live entertainment. (source: The Culture Trip)
- Salon du Chocolat, France: A chocolate festival held in Paris, France, featuring chocolate tastings, cooking demonstrations, and fashion shows. (source: Travel + Leisure)
- Mistura, Peru: A food festival held in Lima, Peru, featuring traditional Peruvian cuisine, cooking classes, and live music. (source: The Culture Trip)
- Pizzafest, Italy: A pizza festival held in Naples, Italy, featuring pizza-making competitions, tastings, and live music. (source: Travel + Leisure)
Best Countries for Foodies Conclusion
Food is an essential part of any travel experience, and for foodies, it’s the main attraction. That’s why for many travelers, selecting countries for foodies is of utmost importance.
Based on the research, some of the best countries for foodies to visit include Italy, Mexico, Japan, and Thailand. These countries offer a wide range of flavors and dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate.
Ultimately, the best countries for foodies will depend on the personal preferences and tastes of the travelers. Some may prefer the spicy and bold flavors of Mexico, while others may be more drawn to the delicate and intricate dishes of Japan. No matter where they go, foodies are sure to find something delicious to eat and a new culinary experience to savor. Thanks for reading this article on the best countries for foodies!
In your opinion, which are the best countries for foodies? Let us know in the comments!