Best Food Cities in the World

Foodie Tours of Auckland:

• Auckland: Flavors of the City Walking Food Tour
• Auckland: 3-hour Food Tasting Walking Tour
• Local Auckland Food Tour

Bangkok

Bangkok is a foodie heaven for one reason, and one reason only: Thai people are foodies. Can you imagine the food culture in a country where everybody likes to eat? Wherever you go, you’ll see smoking food carts lining the streets and alleyways, restaurants selling all sorts of food from authentic Thai to fusion pasta. Not to mention the flavors of Thai cuisine itself, which are always well-balanced between salty, sour, sweet, and sometimes spicy.

You might be surprised, but the national dish of Thailand is not Pad Thai; it’s Tom Yam Kung (you need to Google in Thai to find this result). The reddish spicy prawn soup is eaten with rice, and usually another side dish of your choice to balance out the flavors. 

Don’t leave the city without having a meal at the budget-friendly Sanguan Sri, coincidentally one of the oldest running restaurants in town. If you prefer a more high-end option while maintaining the Thai touches, Baan Suriyasai.

If you only eat one thing in Bangkok, make it Pad Kaprao Moo. It is not “Basil Pork,” but a dish made with Kaprao, a vegetable only found in this part of the world. Find it at any made-to-order food cart or restaurant.

Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires is a paradise for food lovers, blending European flair with bold South American flavors. The city is nicknamed “the Paris of South America” for a reason! Known for its rich culinary culture, the city offers everything from sizzling street food to world-class fine dining. At the heart of it all is Argentina’s famous asado—a traditional barbecue that’s more than a meal, it’s a cultural experience. Juicy cuts of beef, slow-cooked over wood or charcoal, are found everywhere from neighborhood parrillas to elegant restaurants.

For a luxury experience, head to Don Julio, a beloved steakhouse in Palermo known for perfectly grilled meats, an extensive wine list, and attentive service. On the more budget-friendly side, El Banco Rojo in San Telmo serves up incredible street-style eats like gourmet choripán and empanadas with a creative twist. But Buenos Aires isn’t just about beef—Italian influences shine in handmade pastas and pizzas, while a growing international food scene brings in everything from sushi to Middle Eastern fare. With cozy cafes, bustling food markets, and heladerías (ice cream shops) on every corner, the city tempts at every turn.

If you only eat one thing, make it a bife de chorizo (sirloin steak)—thick, juicy, and full of flavor. Try it at La Cabrera, a classic parrilla in Palermo that consistently tops food lovers’ lists.

Food Tours of Buenos Aires

• Local Foodie Adventure in Buenos Aires
• Argentine Experience Dinner with 16 Dishes
• 9 Course Argentine Meat Tasting at Fogon Asado
• Join a Local Family for an Argentine Barbecue

Cairo

Cairo is a paradise for food enthusiasts, blending ancient culinary traditions with a vibrant modern dining scene. It’s often overlooked as one of the best food cities in the world, but real foodies know to look deeper. The city’s diverse offerings range from hearty street food to refined fine dining experiences, reflecting its rich cultural tapestry.

At the heart of Cairo’s culinary identity is koshari, Egypt’s beloved national dish. This comforting meal combines rice, lentils, macaroni, and chickpeas, topped with a tangy tomato sauce, garlic vinegar, and crispy fried onions. For an authentic taste, visit Koshary Abou Tarek, a bustling multi-story eatery renowned for serving some of the best koshari in the city.

For a more upscale experience, Zitouni at the Four Seasons Hotel offers an elegant setting with panoramic views of the Nile. Their menu features traditional Egyptian dishes like molokhia, stuffed pigeon, and a variety of mezze, all prepared with a contemporary flair.

Budget-conscious travelers should not miss Zööba, a modern street food chain that reinvents classic Egyptian fare. Their vibrant Zamalek location serves up innovative takes on staples like ta’ameya (Egyptian falafel) and hawawshi (spiced meat-stuffed bread), offering a fresh perspective on traditional flavors.

Beyond these, Cairo’s culinary landscape includes a plethora of options, from traditional cafes like El-Fishawy Café in Khan el-Khalili, known for its historic ambiance and aromatic teas , to contemporary establishments offering international cuisines. The city’s food scene is a testament to its dynamic culture and history, making it a must-visit destination for any food lover.

If there’s only one thing you eat in Cairo, make it koshari.

Foodie Tours of Cairo:

• Cairo Food Tour
• Egyptian Dinner in a Local Family’s Home
• Cairo Food Tours & Adventures +30 Tastings
• Cairo food tour in Hidden Gems

Cape Town

Cape Town is a vibrant, multicultural city where the food scene is as diverse as its landscapes. With influences from Dutch, Malay, Indian, and indigenous African cuisines, the city offers a unique culinary experience that reflects its rich heritage. From upscale waterfront dining to bustling food markets, there’s something for every palate. One standout luxury option is The Test Kitchen Fledgelings, where innovative dishes and world-class presentation meet a meaningful mission of mentorship. For something more casual, head to The Eastern Food Bazaar in the city center—a colorful hall serving affordable, flavorful meals from across Asia and Africa, including biryani, falafel, and bunny chow.

Cape Town (and nearby Stellenbosch) is famous for its wine, and many restaurants pair local vintages with seasonal menus. Visit the Old Biscuit Mill in Woodstock on a Saturday to sample artisanal bites from top local chefs and bakers. Whether you’re craving seafood by the ocean, hearty Cape Malay curries, or sweet koeksisters, Cape Town’s food scene is unforgettable. Having fresh ostrich meat was a meal I won’t forget!

If you only eat one thing, make it bobotie—a Cape Malay classic made with spiced minced meat baked with a creamy egg topping. Try it at Bo-Kaap Kombuis, where the views of Table Mountain are as impressive as the flavors on your plate.

Delhi

Delhi is a dream destination for foodies, offering a bold and flavorful journey through centuries of culinary history. From Mughlai feasts to Punjabi comfort food and spicy street snacks, the city’s food scene is incredibly diverse. Wander through Old Delhi and you’ll smell sizzling kebabs, buttery parathas, and tangy chaat served fresh from roadside stalls. For a luxury experience, Indian Accent in Lodhi offers a refined take on classic Indian flavors—think blue cheese naan and duck-filled kulchas. If you’re looking for authentic bites on a budget, head to Kuremal Mohan Lal Kulfi Wale in Chawri Bazaar for inventive, stuffed kulfis or try Karim’s, an iconic spot near Jama Masjid known for its slow-cooked mutton and rich gravies.

Delhi also shines with its variety—South Indian dosas, Tibetan momos, Afghani bread, and even global cuisine can be found in neighborhoods like Connaught Place or Hauz Khas. It’s not just a city where you eat well—it’s a city where food tells stories.

If you only eat one thing, make it butter chicken—a Delhi-born dish that’s creamy, rich, and unforgettable. Head to Moti Mahal in Daryaganj, where the dish was first created, for a taste of the original.

Kobe

Kobe is a must-visit for foodies, thanks to its legendary beef and a surprisingly diverse culinary scene that combines tradition with elegance. The city’s global reputation is attributed mainly to Kobe beef, prized for its marbling, tenderness, and rich, buttery flavor. Kobe beef is a specific brand of Wagyu from the Hyogo Prefecture. For beef to be “Kobe beef,” it has to go through extremely rigorous standards, including its breed, place of origin, its weight, marbling score, quality, and how it’s processed.

For a luxurious splurge, book a table at Wakkoqu, where chefs prepare certified Kobe beef teppanyaki-style right in front of you. It’s an experience as much as a meal. For a more budget-friendly bite, try Ishida Kitanozaka, which offers high-quality Kobe beef lunch sets that are much more affordable than dinner menus.

Beyond beef, Kobe’s port city status brings fresh seafood to the table, and you’ll find excellent sushi and izakayas tucked throughout the city. The local sake is also worth a sip—Kobe’s Nada district is one of Japan’s top sake-producing regions. You’ll also find delicate Japanese sweets and Chinese street food in its vibrant Chinatown, Nankinmachi. Whether you’re sipping sake with sashimi or savoring the melt-in-your-mouth beef, Kobe delivers a memorable meal at every turn.

If you only eat one thing, make it Kobe beefsteak—the real deal, prepared simply to let the flavor shine. Head to Steakland Kobe for a delicious and affordable introduction to this iconic dish.

Madrid

Madrid has always been a great city for foodies, and for many years it was a great place to enjoy traditional Spanish cuisine in all its forms. In recent years, however, Madrid has undergone a major culinary transformation with world cuisine restaurants and food markets standing proudly alongside the more traditional Spanish eateries. The food scene in Madrid is a perfect blend of more traditional flavours, modern culinary creativity and stylish pintxos all served in the many bars, restaurants and food markets across the city.

One of the most famous and traditional dishes of Madrid that every foodie should try is Cocido Madrileño, a slow-cooked stew made with chickpeas, a variety of vegetables, and various meats. It’s sometimes served all at once, but often comes as a three-course meal, consisting of a broth with noodles, then chickpeas with different vegetables, and finally, stewed meat.

Many restaurants in Madrid serve cocido Madrileño. For a more luxurious and elegant dining experience, head to Lhardy (Carrera San Jerónimo 8), a historic restaurant dating back to 1839. For a more casual and authentic setting, Taberna de la Daniela (Calle Cuchilleros 9) is well-known for its traditional three-course version of this classic dish.

Marrakech

If you’re looking for one of the best foodie cities in the world then you cannot beat Marrakech, Morocco. After all, this vibrant desert oasis is home to an incredible variety of different restaurants and food stalls that serve everything from luxury tasting menus to delicious Moroccan pancakes known as Msemen.

To try some of the best Moroccan cuisine you’ve ever tasted, go to Cafe des Epices and order a budget-friendly Berber Omelet. It’s similar to Shakshouka, so eggs cooked with tomatoes and spices, and is absolutely delicious. If you can, make a reservation so that you can sit on their rooftop terrace and enjoy sweeping views of the Spice Square.

if you’re looking for a more high-end meal then be sure to visit La Trattoria instead. It has tables situated around an indoor pool with Moroccan lanterns hanging overhead. The Zaalouk, a cold eggplant salad with tomatoes, was absolutely incredible. The bruschetta, burrata, and tiramisu were also delicious and beautifully presented on elegant plates. 

However, if you’re not in the mood for Italian then visit Le Jardin Restaurant instead. This upscale eatery serves killer couscous and tajine, a meat or vegetable-based stew cooked in a pot of the same name, that are served to you inside a beautiful secret garden. It’s the very first restaurant in Marrakech that I ever visited, and I have been coming back ever since. 

If you only eat one thing in Marrakech, make it tanjia. It’s a traditional slow-cooked lamb stew that Marrakech is known for. You can get it at Tanjia Secrets.

Medellin

Medellín is a culinary gem for food enthusiasts, offering a rich tapestry of flavors rooted in its Paisa heritage. The city’s signature dish, bandeja paisa, epitomizes this culinary diversity. This hearty platter typically includes red beans cooked with pork, white rice, ground meat, chicharrón (crispy pork belly), fried egg, plantain, chorizo, arepa, black pudding (morcilla), avocado, and mazamorra—a maize-based dessert drink.

For an upscale dining experience, El Cielo stands out. This world-renowned restaurant offers a multisensory journey through Colombian cuisine, blending traditional flavors with avant-garde techniques. Another notable establishment is Carmen Medellín, known for its innovative dishes that fuse local ingredients with global culinary trends

On the more budget-friendly side, Los Arrieros, located near Plaza Botero, offers authentic Colombian fare. Their rendition of bandeja paisa is both generous and flavorful, capturing the essence of traditional Paisa cooking. Additionally, Hacienda in the city center provides a unique ambiance coupled with classic regional dishes

Beyond these, Medellín’s food scene is vibrant and diverse, with neighborhoods like Laureles and El Poblado boasting a mix of traditional eateries and contemporary cafes. The city’s transformation into a gastronomic destination reflects its broader cultural and urban renaissance

If you only eat one thing, make it bandeja paisa—a sumptuous platter that embodies Medellín’s rich culinary heritage.

Mexico City

Mexico City is one of the best foodie cities in the country for its world class (and Michelin star) Mexican restaurants, its wide variety of international cuisines, its interesting fusion restaurants, and of course its popular and budget-friendly taco stand type places. Plus, compared to other parts of Mexico, it has a decent amount of healthy, allergy friendly, and even organic restaurants.

In Mexico you don’t always want to eat at just any street food stand (because it could make you sick), but two taco spots that have always been safe for me are the traditional Mexican tacos at Tacos El Güero near the revolution monument, and also the Mexican-Middle Eastern fusion tacos at DonEraki Tacos Arabes.

Pujol is one of the city’s most famous two Michelin star Mexican restaurants located in Polanco (one of the safest and nicest neighborhoods), but prices are very high here, so two fancier Mexican food restaurants that aren’t quite as expensive, are Azul Historico in Centro and the historical and beautiful Antigua Hacienda de Tlalpan in the south part of the city.

But if you only have time to eat one thing while in Mexico City, definitely make it traditional Mexican tacos, just stick to safer, well-known taco stands like Tacos El Güero.

Montreal

Montreal has to make any “Best Cities for Food” list because it is a culinary haven that seamlessly blends French sophistication with North American innovation. The city’s diverse gastronomic landscape offers a range of options, from classic French bistros to inventive fusion eateries, reflecting its rich cultural heritage.

At the heart of Montreal’s culinary identity is poutine, a comforting dish of crispy fries topped with squeaky cheese curds and rich brown gravy. For a quintessential experience, La Banquise in the Plateau neighborhood offers an array of poutine variations, from traditional to creative twists. Another iconic spot is Schwartz’s Deli, renowned for its smoked meat sandwiches, which can also be enjoyed atop poutine for a hearty treat.

For those seeking upscale dining, Mon Lapin stands out with its market-driven menu and exceptional natural wine selection, earning accolades including a spot in Canada’s 100 Best Restaurants. Alternatively, Cadet offers refined small plates in a casual setting, earning a Bib Gourmand designation in the Michelin Guide for its exceptional quality and value.

Beyond these, Montreal’s neighborhoods, such as Mile End and Little Italy, are brimming with eateries offering a diverse range of options, from artisanal bagels to authentic Italian fare, ensuring that every palate is catered to. If you only eat one thing in the city, make it a smoked meat. It’s more regional than poutine (but you can often get poutine WITH the sandwich!)

Napoli

Napoli is hands down the best city in Italy for foodies. This is the birthplace of pizza, and once you try it here, nothing else will compare. Napoletan pizza is all about that light, pillowy dough with a charred crust, blistered from the searing heat of a wood-fired oven. The classic Margherita is simple, and absolutely perfect. But don’t miss the Marinara either, which has anchovies added.

There are so many fantastic places to eat in Napoli. For a proper sit-down meal without breaking the bank, Da Nannella is an institution. The menu is short and sweet, offering proper home-cooked Napoletan dishes like pasta with potatoes, provola, and pancetta, or cuttlefish and peas pasta. You get three courses for around 13 euros, in a loud, chaotic atmosphere, where waiters burst into singing at random moments of the night. For something more romantic, head to Trattoria Sant’Anna, tucked away in a little piazza. The portions are huge, the food is outstanding, and the owner, who looks a bit like Pavarotti, is a real character.

Don’t miss the fantastic street food in Napoli either. The panino Napoletano is a gooey, cheesy, pancetta-stuffed sandwich that will stay in your memory for a long time, whilst the cacio e pepe frittata is something you won’t get bored of.

If you only eat one thing, make it a sfogliatella from Pasticceria Mary. Still warm from the oven, its crisp, paper-thin layers hide a lightly sweet ricotta filling with a hint of lemon zest. It’s pure heaven in pastry form.

Napoli Food Tours:

• Naples: Street Food Walking Tour with Local Guide
• Naples: Street Food and Guided Sightseeing Walking Tour
• Naples Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours
• Naples Street Food Scene Tour: Small-Group Tasting Adventure

New Orleans

If you’re someone who’s a foodie at heart, a trip to New Orleans will be right up your alley!

In addition to its Mardi Gras celebrations, charming French Quarter, unique cemeteries and lively music scene, New Orleans is also KNOWN for its food.  As for overall cuisine, Creole is the way to go.  Consider enjoying dinner at Brennan’s for a slightly luxurious Creole dining experience.  And be sure to enjoy the other types of delicious eats New Orleans has to offer, as well!  A few dishes that can’t be missed include Jambalaya, Crawfish Étouffée, Gumbo and Oysters.  * Acme Oyster House is a GREAT place to go for Oysters.  The wait may be long, but it’s worth it!*  Po’ boys are another must-eat food in New Orleans.  A few great places to try them are NOLA Po Boys, Johnny’s Po-Boys, and Mother’s Restaurant.  For an iconic New Orleans beverage head over to Pat O’Brien’s for a Hurricane.  It’s an alcoholic drink, but there’s a non alcoholic version as well.  

The crown jewel of foods to enjoy in New Orleans may just be the Beignets.  They’re similar to a funnel cake, they’re covered in powdered sugar, and they’re life changing. So if nothing else, remember this:  If you only eat one thing in New Orleans, make sure it’s a Beignet from Cafe du Monde.

Enjoy your foodie experience in the delicious Big Easy!

New York City

New York City is a food lover’s paradise, with halal carts on every corner, Michelin stars down the block, and bagels that might actually change your life. The beauty of NYC is that you can eat like royalty on any budget and from literally any cuisine. One minute you’re devouring dollar dumplings in Chinatown, the next you’re sipping champagne over oysters in the West Village. 

You can check off your NYC food bucket list by eating your way through local favorites like Joe’s Pizza and Junior’s cheesecake, or treat yourself at Michelin-starred restaurants like Eleven Madison Park.

New York City has something for everyone. If you’re craving Chinese, try Hwa Yuan Szechuan Inn in Chinatown, the inventor or cold sesame noodles. Have a taste for Thai? Hit up Thai Diner in Nolita. Looking for the perfect brunch spot? Head to Balthazar in SoHo. Always wanted to give Persian Food a try? Check out Persepolis in the Upper East Side.

New York City has it all. But if you eat only one thing in New York City, make it the pastrami on rye at Katz’s Deli. Their sandwiches are piled sky high with the most mouth-watering pastrami you’ve ever tasted. Vegetarian? No problem, there are plenty of meat-free options in New York City as well. Try Soda Club for house-made pastas and out-of-this-world vegan dishes.

The great thing about New York City is that you can take a culinary tour of the world without leaving Manhattan.

New Orleans Food Tours:

• New Orleans: French Quarter Food History Walking Tour
• New Orleans: Beyond the French Quarter Food Tour
• New Orleans Donut and Beignet Adventure by Underground Donut Tour
• New Orleans Cocktail and Food History Tour

Paris

Paris is a dream destination for food lovers, combining timeless elegance with bold culinary creativity. Whether you’re sipping a perfect coffee at a cozy café or enjoying a multi-course tasting menu, the city offers something delicious at every turn. Trendy spots like Bon Bouquet Café bring a vibrant, Instagram-worthy brunch scene with mango pancakes topped with mascarpone, or colorful avocado toast with salmon and pomegranate. For a more classic Parisian breakfast, Kozy Café offers rich coffee and fresh brioche with cream and fruit.

If you’re looking for truly excellent coffee, Back in Black is a must—recommended by local dessert tour guides and known for serving what many say is the best coffee in Paris.

For a fine dining experience, Restaurant Kozo offers a refined French-Japanese fusion tasting menu in an intimate setting. On the more casual side, Focaccia Novettino serves gourmet focaccia sandwiches—try the one with pecorino cheese, bresaola, truffle mayo, and fresh tomato, which might be one of the best sandwiches you’ll ever eat.

In addition to all the amazing flavors, a culinary visit to the city pairs perfectly with the wide variety of things to do in Paris, making each day a blend of cultural experiences and outstanding food.

If you only eat one thing, make it the award-winning baguette from Boulangerie Utopie. This bakery won first place in Paris’s prestigious baguette competition. Grab one fresh in the morning, pair it with French butter, and enjoy it like a true Parisian.

Paris Food Tours:

• Paris: Chocolate & Patisserie Walking Tour with Tastings
• Paris: Food Tour in Le Marais with Tastings
• Devour Paris Ultimate Food Tour
• A Morning in Paris Food Tour: Croissants, Baguettes & Chocolate

Porto

Portugal is heaven for foodies! The country is known for its bacalhau (codfish), sardines and bifana (pork sandwiches). And let’s not forget the famous custard tards pastéis de nata! There are plenty of restaurants in the Ribeira area near the river, but it’s also worth it to venture towards the coast and have dinner in Foz do Douro or Afurada de Cima.  

One of the best Portuguese cities for food is Porto. There are amazing restaurants such as Brasão Aliados and Chama. And when you’re in Vila Nova de Gaia on the other side of the Duoro River, you should definitely visit the Port Wine cellars! You can see several Port houses, and of course, a tasting is included. 

If you could only eat one thing in Porto, make it the Francesinha! This is a Portuguese sandwich with different types of layered meat. It can include sausage, steak, and ham, and it’s covered in melted cheese. It’s served with a fried egg on top, and it’s surrounded by a special tomato-and-beer-like sauce. Add a cold beer and some chips, and it’s a meal you won’t easily forget! You can try the Franceshinha in several restaurants, such as Casa Guedes Progresso and Café Santiago.

Porto Food Tours:

• Porto: 3-Hour Food Tour
• Porto: Evening Local Food Crawl with Drink Pairings
• 4-Hour Traditional Portuguese Food Tour in Porto
• Porto Tapas and Vinho Verde Tour

Reykjavik

Reykjavík may be small, but it punches well above its weight when it comes to food. The city is a haven for adventurous eaters and lovers of fresh, local ingredients. Iceland’s coastal location means seafood is front and center—expect beautifully prepared dishes featuring cod, arctic char, langoustine, and more. Traditional Icelandic cuisine is rooted in resourcefulness, and today’s chefs have elevated it with a modern twist. For an upscale experience, book a table at DILL, Iceland’s first Michelin-starred restaurant, known for its seasonal tasting menus that celebrate Nordic flavors. Or do the tasting menu at Grillmarkadurinn, where you can try puffin and minke whale! For a more budget-friendly meal, grab a hearty bowl of lamb soup or a fish stew at Icelandic Street Food, a cozy, no-frills spot in the city center. Reykjavík also offers international fare, creative vegan options, and even unexpected delights like gourmet hot dogs. Don’t miss the thriving coffeehouse culture or the unique chance to try fermented shark—if you’re feeling brave. Whether you’re sampling traditional recipes or new Nordic creations, Reykjavík offers a dining experience unlike any other.

If you only eat one thing, make it an Icelandic lamb hot dog (pylsa)—snappy, flavorful, and topped with crispy onions and remoulade. Try it at Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur, a legendary stand loved by locals and tourists alike. It’s also insanely affordable making it one of the best cheap things to do in Reykjavik!

Reykjavik Food Tours:

• Reykjavik: Guided Foodie Walking Tour with 6 Tastings
• Reykjavik: The Icelandic Sweet Tooth Tour
• Reykjavik Food Walk – Local Foodie Adventure in Iceland
• Reykjavik Food Lovers Tour – Icelandic Traditional Food

Rome

Rome is a dream destination for foodies, offering a delicious mix of tradition, simplicity, and bold flavor. With recipes passed down for generations, Roman cuisine is hearty and unpretentious—think rich pastas, crispy pizzas, and slow-cooked meats. The city is renowned for its iconic dishes, including carbonara, cacio e pepe, and supplì (fried rice balls). Whatever you order, expect the freshest ingredients!

For a luxurious night out, try La Pergola, Rome’s only three-Michelin-starred restaurant, where fine dining meets panoramic views. On the more casual side, Trattoria Da Enzo al 29 in Trastevere serves classic Roman plates in a cozy, no-frills setting beloved by locals and visitors alike.

Rome’s food scene isn’t limited to pasta either—you’ll find everything from Roman-style artichokes (carciofi alla romana) to street vendors selling pizza by the slice. Honestly, I’d be shocked if you found bad food in Rome. Be sure to explore the Testaccio neighborhood, considered the heart of traditional Roman food, or sample gourmet bites at Mercato Centrale near Termini. Be sure to pack loose-fitting clothes if you’re spending a few days in Rome because of all the food (and wine) you’ll enjoy! With a focus on seasonal ingredients and bold flavors, eating in Rome is both a cultural and culinary adventure.

If you only eat one thing, make it cacio e pepe—a creamy, peppery pasta made with just three ingredients. Head to Felice a Testaccio for one of the city’s most famous versions, tossed tableside for full effect.

Rome Food Tours:

• Rome: Trastevere & Campo de Fiori Street Food Walking Tour
• Rome: Trastevere Guided Food and Wine Tour with 20+ Tastings
• Rome Twilight Trastevere Food Tour by Eating Europe
• Rome Food Tour: Campo de’ Fiori, Ghetto, Trastevere

Sydney

Considered one of the ultimate bucket list destinations around the world, Sydney is a truly metropolitan city with a large variety of restaurants catering to any palate. From fine dining to ethnic delights, there is a wide range of options to choose from. 

If you can only eat one thing: the must try food local to the area is a dessert called Lamington. This Australian delicacy is a cake made from sponge cake squares coated in chocolate and rolled in coconut. You can find it throughout many establishments in the city, but the most famous is Flour and Stone. 

If sweets are not your thing, make sure to try the local fresh fish, Barramundi. This fish is packed with omega fatty acids and has a delicious flavor. There are different preparations for the fish depending on what restaurant you go to, but the most common is just on the grill. 

Sydney is filled with countless delicious restaurants to try. You could spend an entire month exploring the city and its restaurants. For those that only have a couple of days, we recommend a couple for each budget. For a luxury dining experience, visit The Blue Door or Lana. For a delicious but more budget-friendly eat, we recommend Soul Dining (Korean food) or The North Spoon. 

Sydney Food Tours:

• Sydney: Secret Food Tour
• Sydney: Chinatown Street Food & Culture Guided Walking Tour
• Chef-Led Hunter Valley Gourmet Food and Wine Day Tour from Sydney
• Sydney Private Food Walking Tour With Locals: The 10 Tastings

Tel Aviv

Tel Aviv is a dream for any foodie! With one of the highest restaurant counts per capita, it offers everything from fresh street eats to upscale dining experiences.

Splurge at OCD for an unforgettable tasting menu, or head to budget-friendly Abu Hassan in Jaffa, widely considered to serve the best hummus in Israel. Vegan or kosher? No problem. The food scene here is so inclusive, and you’ll never run out of new places to try. 

Fun fact: Tel Aviv has the highest number of sushi restaurants per capita in the world, second only to Tokyo!

A must-visit spot for any tourist is Carmel Market, with stalls selling freshly squeezed juices, local street food favorites, spices, and souvenirs.

If you only eat one thing, make it sabich – pita filled with crispy eggplant, boiled egg, tahini, and fresh herbs. The best one? Sabich Frishman near Dizengoff.

Tel Aviv Food Tours:

• Tel Aviv: Food & History Tour of Jaffa Old City & Flea Market
• Tel Aviv: 2-Hour Carmel Market Tour in English with Lunch
• Half-Day Guided Food Tasting in Tel Aviv Hatikva Market
• Carmel Market Tasting Tour

Tokyo Food Tours:

• Tokyo: Shinjuku Food Tour
• Tokyo: Night Foodie Tour in Shinjuku
• Tokyo: Shinjuku Food Tour w/ 13 tastings
• Tokyo Tsukiji Fish Market Food and Culture Walking Tour

Final Thoughts

From the timeless elegance of Parisian bistros to the bustling souks of Marrakech, and from the ancient Roman trattorias to the cutting-edge kitchens of Reykjavik, the world is a smorgasbord of culinary delights just waiting to be discovered. We hope this guide inspires you to venture beyond your comfort zone and savor the unique flavors that make each of these cities truly exceptional. Remember, great food doesn’t have to break the bank, and with a little planning, you can experience the very best of global gastronomy without sacrificing your value for time or money.