If you’re anything like me, food is one of your top priorities when planning a vacation. Finding the ultimate local food spots usually turns into a full-on mission as you obsessively read through hundreds of reviews and scroll through food TikTok, only to realize two hours have gone by. With 30 new TikToks in your Saved, it’s time to narrow down your options. To help you start your first decision— a travel destination— here is a food-focused guide that is sure to bring joy to your taste buds.
1. Mexico City, Mexico
After browsing through dozens of “countries with the best food” lists, it became obvious that Mexico City is a must for foodies. Adored by locals and tourists alike, the world-renowned street food scene offers authentic dishes like tacos, tamales, and elotes. After grabbing an on-the-go bite, consider checking out Mercado de Coyoacán. The market has a reputation for being the best place to grab a tostada, which includes endless options for toppings.
2. Bologna, Italy
For those looking to venture up north in the foodie-heaven country of Italy, look no further than Bologna. Yes, the city does share a name with Oscar Mayer’s lunch meat. The city is known for having the original bologna that has not been butchered by American manufacturing: mortadella. This high-quality pork sausage is only a glimpse into Italy’s world of fine cured meats. Try a charcuterie board to get a mix of meats and cheeses like prosciutto, pecorino, and parmesan.
Now onto the symbol of Italy: pasta! Bologna is known for its comforting bolognese sauce, cheese-filled tortellini, and fresh-baked lasagne. There will be no shortage of homemade pasta that tastes like it was made with all of Nonna’s love.
3. Bangkok, Thailand
After a 20-hour flight to Bangkok, your stomach is going to be begging for a bite of anything. Even if you arrive at 3 am, Bangkok has you covered, having a 24-hour street food scene with delicious food everywhere you turn. Some may sell quick snacks, like mu ping (BBQ pork served on a stick), while others offer full meals. For those hungry, it is a must to try Thailand’s national dish, Pad Thai. The stir-fried noodles will give your taste buds a perfect balance of sweet and salty, thanks to the mix of tamarind and fish sauce. If you are looking for a sweet treat after dinner, try out the flavorful dessert of mango sticky rice. Made with coconut milk and fresh mangos, you will get the ultimate taste of tropical heaven.
4. Istanbul, Turkey
Turkey is one of the world’s most ancient cities, still holding flavors from the Ottoman Empire. Europe, Asia, and North Africa were all a part of the empire, exchanging cultures and cuisines. Perfected over centuries and holding Ottoman roots, iconic Turkish dishes like kebabs and rice pilaf are standouts. Giving dishes their rich flavor are spices, nuts, dried fruit, and fresh herbs, the key to Turkish foods layered taste. A perfect example of this layering is one of the country’s most famous desserts: baklava. Thin layers of dough, pistachios, and honey bring the dessert a sticky sweetness, perfectly balanced by the crunchy nuts.
If you are feeling adventurous, try kokoreç, a traditional Turkish dish of lamb intestines. Eaten as a sandwich or on its own, the charcoal-grilled street meat is sure to be like nothing you have had before.
5. Tokyo, Japan
Since 2007, Tokyo has had the most Michelin Star restaurants worldwide. Master chefs treat food creation like an art, opting for high-quality ingredients. Every day, chefs go to the local fish markets, Tsukiji or Toyosu, to purchase fresh seafood for various dishes. Sushi, sashimi, and nigiri are all must-try dishes, embodying the dedication to quality.
One of present-day Japan’s favorite dishes is ramen. If you share a similar passion, check out the ramen bars and museum: Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum.
XOXO,
Your Fashion Bestie
