My Top 10 Food Destination Picks For The Foodventurous
These are in no particular order, but if they were, the foods from locations two, three, and nine would be in my top three.
I’m a big fan of bouncing around the globe, and if you’re like me, you might have a palate primed for adventure to match your ready-to-roam spirit.
Traveling abroad offers you unique opportunities to explore the world’s most mind-blowing cuisines. My sister once called this “foodventurous,” and I’ve never forgotten that. From big city street markets to haute cuisine, every destination on this list promises a deliciously unique flavor journey like none other.
Here are my top recommended places to consider if your taste buds are as curious as mine. These are in no particular order and are personal recommendations and recommendations made by trusted friends.
1. Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo, a city that pulses with vibrant energy, offers an unmatched culinary scene. As a future expat, you can explore everything from sushi served by master chefs in Ginza to street-side ramen in Shibuya.
Don’t miss trying omakase, a chef-selected meal that showcases the freshest ingredients of the day, or okonomiyaki, a savory pancake that’s a hit at local diners.
2. Bangkok, Thailand
Thailand’s capital, Bangkok, is a haven for street food enthusiasts—the city’s markets brim with dishes like pad Thai, green curry, and mango sticky rice.
For a truly local experience, visit the floating markets and try som tam (spicy green papaya salad) while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
3. Kingston, Jamaica
Jamaica offers a culinary scene as vibrant as its culture. Kingston, the heart of this island nation, serves up a feast of flavors ranging from spicy jerk chicken and pork at roadside stands to luxurious seafood dishes like marinated escovitch fish.
Don’t miss the opportunity to sip on sweet and refreshing coconut water or indulge in a slice of rich, aromatic Jamaican rum cake.
4. Mexico City, Mexico
A melting pot of culinary traditions, Mexico City is an exhilarating destination for any food lover. The city offers a range of dishes from tacos al pastor to ancient Aztec recipes.
Be sure to try chiles en nogada, a patriotic dish featuring poblano chiles stuffed with picadillo and topped with a walnut-based cream sauce and pomegranate seeds.
5. Marrakech, Morocco
In the heart of Morocco, Marrakech’s food scene is steeped in a blend of Arab, French, and African influences.
The night markets are alive with the smells of tagine and couscous. For a snack, reach for b’stilla, a flaky pastry filled with pigeon meat and dusted with sugar and cinnamon — a true taste of local flavor.
6. Naples, Italy
The birthplace of pizza, Naples is an essential stop for those who love this global favorite right from its source.
Beyond pizza, Naples is renowned for its seafood and pasta dishes. Spaghetti alle vongole (spaghetti with clams) and sfogliatella, a filled, shell-shaped pastry, are both must-tries in Naples.
7. Istanbul, Turkey
Straddling two continents, Istanbul’s cuisine reflects its rich history and geographical diversity. The city’s specialties include baklava, layered pastry with nuts and honey, and döner kebab, seasoned meat cooked on a vertical rotisserie.
Menemen, a traditional Turkish breakfast dish made with eggs, tomatoes, green peppers, and spices, is a flavorful way to start any day.
8. Seoul, South Korea
Seoul tempts expats with its dynamic food scene. Traditional Korean BBQ, where diners grill their meat, is a communal and engaging experience.
The city’s markets also serve kimchi, tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), and bibimbap (mixed rice with vegetables and meat). Korean street food also offers quick, delicious eats like hotteok (sweet syrupy pancakes).
9. New Orleans, USA
New Orleans is a melting pot of French, African, Spanish, and American cultures, vividly reflected in its food.
Famous for dishes like gumbo, jambalaya, and beignets, the city offers a culinary adventure in every bite. Seafood lovers will revel in the abundant crawfish, oysters, and shrimp dishes.
10. Chiang Mai, Thailand
Chiang Mai offers a different taste of Thai cuisine with its Lanna food traditions. Signature dishes include khao soi, a creamy coconut curry noodle soup, and sai oua, a spicy local sausage.
The city’s relaxed atmosphere and its array of cafes also make it an ideal spot for those looking to enjoy a slower pace of life alongside delicious food.
Exploring these ten destinations will fulfill your desire for new experiences and deepen your appreciation of global cultures through the universal language of food.
What are your top food destinations? Did any of yours make the list? Please share your thoughts in the comments, and let’s keep the conversation going.
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Hi There! I’m Marcia, a Caribbean-born American expat and digital nomad living in Mexico City. I am a travel and lifestyle writer and a move-abroad coach.
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