6 Foodie Destinations to Visit Before You Die
For the gustatory traveler, the world can seem like one long smorgasbord. Each country – and indeed even separate regions within countries – has distinctive culinary traits, unique flavour combinations and methods of preparation. Wouldn’t it be amazing to try them all? But there are two problems: time and money.
Unless you win the Powerball lottery, it’s difficult to travel the world purely for gastronomic adventure, and even if you did hit the jackpot, life is too short to eat everything. That’s why, in the interest of being selective, this article is going to list six foodie destinations that you absolutely have to try before you die. And, in order to give you a bit of a fresh perspective, most entries on this list are a little out of the ordinary (i.e. not the Rome, Paris, etc. that you might find on other lists!). Let’s dig in.
Kobe, Japan
Home of the fabled, titular Kobe beef, prized internationally for its unctuous marbling and deep beefy flavour, Kobe is a city made for eating. While other guides might opt to choose Tokyo, no lightweight when it comes to food, this list is giving it to Kobe for the sheer genius of its meat dishes, as well as other delicious staples like udon soup and mixed yakisoba fry.
Mexico City, Mexico
You don’t need much money to enjoy the culinary riches of Mexico City. You certainly don’t need to win the lottery – in fact, with the good odds of winning smaller Powerball prizes you might be able to eat for a whole day off just a couple correct number picks. That’s because Mexico City has a thriving and varied street food scene, doling out drool-worthy tacos al pastor, carnitas tacos and tortas.
Bordeaux, France
Paris might be the fine dining capital of Europe, but France’s other culinary heavy hitter is more of a humble, French soul food capital. Bordeaux, famous for its amazing wine production, is no stranger to iconic dishes, like entrecote a la bordelaise and macarons.
Bangkok, Thailand
This bustling Southeast Asian city has great food jam-packed into every corner of its winding streets and alleyways. From steaming bowls of noodle soups, to smoky grilled chicken, bubbling curries, and, of course, the internationally loved Pad Thai, you are always greeted with delicious smells when you walk around Bangkok.
Austin, USA
Does Austin have the best barbecue in America? Answering that can only get a writer in trouble, since folks from pretty much every southern state have hard opinions on why their local BBQ is the best. But one thing is undeniable: the food in Austin, especially the BBQ, is fantastic. Add to that a little Tex-Mex flair, and Austin handily earns its spot on this list.
Modena, Italy
Rome might get all the attention, but the Emilia Romagna region in the north of Italy is Italy’s true culinary powerhouse. It’s where Parmigiano-Reggiano, Prosciutto di Parma, Balsamic di Modena, Ragu Bolognese and about a thousand other iconic Italian ingredients/dishes hail from. Rent a Vespa, explore the old cobblestone streets and pop into literally any restaurant for a mind-blowing food experience.
What’s on your culinary bucket list? Comment below with any tips and advice.
