A city’s food is central to its culture. Any well seasoned (get it?) traveler will tell you that. The colors and flavors of a dish can invite you into the essence of a place. From the hands that press the olive oil to the spices placed on the table, it is all connected. And now more than ever, travelers are eager to be part of it. While traveling for food is certainly not a new phenomenon, it seems to be growing in popularity. Food tourism is much more accessible than ever before, as culinary adventurers strive to push their taste buds through food tours, cooking classes, festivals, and other tasting experiences. Perhaps due to millennials’ growing interest in both food and travel, globetrotters are seeking both cheap eats and indulgences. A lot of it has to do with social media. From New York City food festivals to the streets of Marrakesh, travelers are snapping images of their food and posting it to social media. This blend of taste and aesthetic creates an entirely new twist to foodie culture. We smell, taste, and experience — then we share so that others are tempted to do the same. Taste buds tingling at the thought of culinary adventures? To help you plan your gastronomic trek around the world, we have curated a selection of some of the most mouth-watering and famous international dishes. So start checking out those flight deals, and leave your food inhibitions behind! Yokohama, Japan — Ramen Is ramen Japanese or Chinese? Well, both. This scrumptious noodle-based feast is a Japanese take on traditional Chinese wheat noodle soups. Although ramen is said to have originated in Yokohama, Japan in around 1918, ramen shops soon began appearing in both Japan and China, and have been a culinary mainstay of both countries ever since. A far cry from the cheap dry bricks of noodle that many college students over the years have virtually survived on, the real ramen experience is a multisensory experience, delectable to the tongue, tantalizing to the nose, and vibrant to the eye. Traditional ramen is made with Chinese-style wheat noodles, and features sliced pork (chāshū), nori (dried seaweed), menma (bamboo shoots), and scallions, but there are as many variations as there are ramen shops. Frankfurt, Germany — Sauerbraten This classic German dish Sauerbraten literally translates to “sour roast,” but isn’t actually sour at all. Rather, it is one of Germany’s most popular national meat dishes. To make this dish, chefs marinate beef, pork, or mutton for several days. This slow process gives you a tender and juicy piece of meat with every forkful. Sauerbraten is typically served with red cabbage (Rotkohl), potato dumplings (Knödel or Kartoffelklöße), and egg noodles (Spätzle) served alongside. While you can find this dish in nearly all German cities, every region will have its own delicious variation. Valencia, Spain — Paella Spain puts as much cultural pride into its food as the rest of its traditions. Surrounded by coastline, the Spanish have certainly mastered seafood dishes. And few platos are quite as popular as paella. This famous rice and seafood dish originated in Valencia, but other Spanish cities have their own variations on the dish. It is most commonly served with shrimp, but can also contain chicken, pork, squid, or other seafood. Add some bread and olive oil on the side for the true Spanish experience. Montreal, Canada — Poutine Poutine is a trendy dish that has popped up in food trucks and restaurants all over the United States, but Poutine is the true pride of French-Canadians. This tasty combination of French fries, cheese curds, and gravy is deliciously greasy, especially if served in just the right way. Picture this: A bed of crispy, hot fries seasoned to perfection, a layer of cheese slightly melted from the fries, and a flavorful gravy adorning it all. Tempted yet? Bon appétit! Tel Aviv, Israel — Shakshuka Originating in North Africa and brought to Israel by Tunisian Jews, Shakshuka is one of the most popular–and most delicious–breakfast dishes that you can find in Israel, or indeed anywhere. When you enter a restaurant in Israel, chances are you’ll see some type of Shakshuka on the menu. This tasty meal involves several sunny side up eggs cooked in a tomato and pepper paste. It is seasoned with onions, herbs, and traditional spices. Shakshuka is traditionally served in a hot cast iron pan with a side of pita for dipping and eating. Why not eat it for every meal? You Might Also Enjoy: Culinary Experiences + Travel = the Hottest, New Trend: Food Tourism Bangkok, Thailand — Mango Sticky Rice Roaming the streets of Bangkok, you are sure to find mango sticky rice at any number of bustling roadside stalls. Also known as khao niaow ma muang, this heavenly treat offers the perfect combination of sweet and salty flavors, and is made with sticky glutinous rice, coconut milk, and of course, fresh mangos. Whether you enjoy this dish for dessert or as a snack, you are sure to be satisfied by the indulgent texture of the rice and juiciness of the mango. Convinced that putting food at the center of your next journey is a great idea? You’re joining the ranks of trekkers eager to try the most interesting and decadent food from around the world. The key is to take risks on your vacation and learn how to experience local food in a memorable way. Do you have a favorite destination for food tourism? Let us know in the comments below!
