foreign
[Music]
get ready to loosen your belt and
indulge in the most mouth-watering
adventure of your life with our USA food
tour welcome back to wonderfully lost
your home for all things travel from New
York Star Pizza to Southern barbecue
we've got your taste buds covered sink
your teeth into Chicago deep dish pizza
hot dogs in Detroit lobster rolls in
Maine and so much more just don't forget
your stretchy pants number 10. Houston
Texas Houston is the place to be if you
want to experience a Melting Pot of
flavors they don't call it America's
most diverse City for nothing from Viet
cage infusion to Southeast Asian Latin
American Cuisine there's no shortage of
deliciousness to be found if you're
feeling fancy head on over to post
Market where you'll find a whole bunch
of award-winning chefs showing off their
skills and let us tell you these folks
are like culinary Wizards they're
cooking up some seriously amazing stuff
but if you're looking for a more laid
back Vibe check out the food trucks
honestly who doesn't love a good food
truck right carinas is the one to watch
here they're serving up Korean Mexican
Fusion that's out of this world
seriously it's so good you'll want to
eat it for breakfast lunch and dinner
number 9. Burlington Vermont picture
this you're strolling down Church Street
in Burlington surrounded by the Lush
mountains and sparkling Lake Champlain
but what's that Heavenly smell wafting
in the air ah it's the farm to table
eateries bickering you with their
scrumptious dishes indulge in Vermont's
Farm Fresh flavors with some sharp
cheddar soup maple glazed pancakes or a
warm cup of mulled apple cider because
who says cider is only for kids whether
you're a seasoned foodie or just looking
for a tasty getaway Burlington's got
something to satisfy every craving so
come for the views stay for the food
coma number eight Nashville Tennessee
y'all it's time to put down that guitar
and pick up a fork because Nashville
isn't just the home of country music
anymore this city has been secretly
perfecting some of the best Southern
inspired cuisine in the nation and yes
we're talking about that Infamous
Nashville hot chicken that will make
your taste buds sing from finger licking
barbecue to spicy hot chicken this city
knows how to satisfy your taste buds
skip the tourist traps downtown and head
to the hip and edgy East Nashville where
you'll find local coffee roasters and
some of the best bistros in town like
Butcher and Bee whether you're in the
mood for classic southern comfort food
or creative Chef inspired dishes
Nashville's food scene won't disappoint
number 7. Sonoma California Sonoma is a
Hidden Gem of California's culinary
scene let us tell you why Sonoma is a
foodie's fantasy with its abundance of
farm-to-table restaurants specialty food
stores and tasting rooms whether you're
into cheese chocolate or wine or all
three sonoma's got you covered and what
better way to experience it all than
with a knowledgeable local guide from
Sonoma food tour their three-hour
original food wine and history tour will
take you on a journey through the
Region's Rich history stunning
architecture and unique culture all
while indulging in delicious food and
wine tastings from popular spots like
the Villa cheese company and Wine
Country Chocolates so come hungry leave
happy and discover why Sonoma is the
real star of California's culinary world
number six Seattle Washington state if
you're in Seattle surrounded by the
Fresh Ocean Breeze and the Majestic site
of Mount Rainier what could possibly
make this experience even better oh just
the fact that you're in one of the best
foodie cities in the country from The
world-renowned Pike Place markets to the
original Starbucks location Seattle has
it all when it comes to delicious
Cuisine speaking of Pike Place Market
you might want to start your foodie
Adventure there you can watch
fishmongers toss around fish like it's
nobody's business or indulge in some
fluffy Donuts at Top Pot Donuts and if
you really want to up your foodie game
sign up for a Seattle food tour it's
like a culinary scavenger hunt but
instead of a prize at the end you get to
stuff your face with the best bites in
the city who needs a participation
trophy when you have a full stomach
right number 5. Greenville South
Carolina now we have got a culinary
Underdog on our hands Greenville South
Carolina might have started as a sleepy
little town but it's quickly turning
into a foodie's dream come true first up
we've got camp and no we're not talking
about a summer camp we're talking about
a restaurant this joint is offering up
some seriously unique dishes that'll
make your taste buds do a happy dance
Thai inspired calamari yes please lamb
smothered in curry cream don't mind if
we do but that's not all folks great
Jones is serving up some of the freshest
Seafood you'll find in the area and if
you need a caffeine boost methodical
coffee has got you covered and we can't
forget about Scoundrels with acclaimed
chef and Greenville native Joe cash at
the helm this French Brasserie is
quickly becoming the Talk of the Town
trust us you don't want to miss out the
list goes on so what are you waiting for
your taste buds and your Instagram feed
will thank you number 4. Denver Colorado
as the gateway to the Rockies Denver
offers much more than breathtaking
Mountain views the city's culinary
landscape is a thrilling Fusion of
classic cocktails French Delicacies and
a fiery Szechuan noodles that'll make
your taste buds tingle Union Station
Denver's bustling Transportation Hub is
also a Food Lover's Haven indulge in
bone marrow brewlay at Mercantile
provision ends or peruse the shelves at
Tattered Cover Bookstore before grabbing
a bite and if you're looking for a more
laid-back Vibe head over to Rhino for an
afternoon of coffee craft beer and
street art that'll leave you with a full
belly and a head full of inspiration
Denver may be a mile high but it has an
out of this world culinary experience to
offer number three Cleveland Ohio
Cleveland is like a United Nations of
flavor with dishes from all around the
globe with over a hundred different
ethnicities represented you can be sure
that your taste buds will be taken on a
wild ride start your culinary Adventure
at West Side Market an indoor outdoor
Market that'll satisfy any foodie's
appetite you can find everything from
contemporary Mexican Cuisine to perogies
bratwurst and fresh baked goods but why
stop there head to Asia town for some
dim sum or Slavic Village for perogies
that are sure to hit the spot and let's
not forget about the black owned black
LED restaurants that are making a name
for themselves in the land and for a
caffeine fix check out Cleveland cold
brew for a cup of Joe and a pastry and
if you're looking for some new hot spots
check out Cordelia for some Midwest
comfort food with a Twist and the Judith
for a cozy Parisian Vibe with so much to
explore Cleveland's food scene is
definitely worth a taste number 2.
Chicago Illinois are you ready to
indulge in a food journey of Epic
Proportions then pack your bags and head
straight to Chicago the city where food
fantasies come to life from authentic
perogy to mouth-watering Chicago style
deep dish pizza there's something to
satisfy every craving take a stroll
through Pilsen District where you can
Feast on delicious Mexican street tacos
or steamed tamales that'll leave you
drooling for days or head over to
uptownsby at the me's Enclave where you
can slope on some Poe and sink your
teeth into a crusty bun me that'll make
you feel like you're in the streets of
Hanoi and let's not forget about the
iconic Chicago hot dog the perfect late
night snack after a Cubs game
irresistible right number one Milwaukee
Wisconsin Milwaukee where beer flows
like water rats are a staple and brioch
is wait what yes you heard it right
Milwaukee is one of the best foodie
cities that'll make your taste buds go
wild with its unique mix of old and new
Cuisine the city is brimmed and stuffed
with German and European Heritage in
every bite of the traditional bratwurst
schnitzel and of course the beer served
out of Steins but it's not all about the
past Milwaukee is living in the moment
too it's also home to trendy
farm-to-table eateries that serve up
creative dishes that'll make your
stomach Rumble with excitement and let's
not forget about the stunning Lakefront
views where you can sip a glass of wine
and pretend you're in a fancy French
cafe but really you're in the middle
Milwaukee Museum of Art so come to
Milwaukee and indulge in all its
deliciousness who knows you might even
discover a new love for brioche
thanks for wandering with us if you
enjoyed the USA food tour check out the
Europe food tour linked here
[Music]
thank you
Welcome back to Wanderfully Lost, your roadmap to unforgettable family journeys and travel advice. And what family vacation is ever complete without great food? To help you make your family travel dreams come true, we have collected the ultimate guide to the 11 best foodie cities around the world.
From the delectable cuisine of the West to the spices of the East, this list takes you across the world to places where good food rules the hearts of its people.
Before you get lost in our blog, be sure to browse our Wanderful Storefront for all our favorite travel products, gear and must haves!
This post includes affiliate links. It’s super important for us to be transparent with our Wanderers! If you click on one, we may receive a small, but wanderful commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for WANDERING with us!
1. Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo is not just Japan’s vibrant capital, it is also a food lover’s paradise. From the delicate combinations of sushi and sashimi to the comfort foods like ramen and the crispy tempura, the city’s culinary offerings are a symbol of its rich, age-old traditions.
Strolling through Tokyo, you can’t help but notice the abundance of Michelin-starred restaurants. Here, every dish is a work of art, crafted with precision and care by some of the world’s best chefs. But the city also celebrates its more relaxed side. Izakayas, Tokyo’s cozy traditional pubs, offer a warm and laid-back setting to enjoy local delights. They’re where friends gather, laughter flows, and the essence of Tokyo’s food culture truly comes alive.
2. Paris, France
Ah, Paris! Known as the center of gastronomy, this enchanting city is where you find patisseries and pastries, and where cheese and wine flow like the Seine. From the iconic croissant to the elegant coq au vin, the French stand out when it comes to their cuisine.
But what makes Paris truly special is its culinary diversity. Wander through the bustling street markets, and you’ll discover an array of tantalizing treats. From crepes made right before your eyes to freshly baked baguettes, every corner of Paris offers a delightful surprise for your taste buds.
3. Bangkok, Thailand
In the heart of Thailand, Bangkok is a place of some of the world’s best-known dishes. The lively streets are a treasure trove of flavors that offer pad Thai, aromatic green curry, and sweet mango sticky rice.
But it’s the night markets that truly steal the show. As the sun sets, these markets come alive with a kaleidoscope of colors, scents, and sounds. From skewers of succulent satay to the spicy kick of tom yum soup, Bangkok’s night markets are a whirlwind of culinary delight.
4. New York City, USA
In the busy streets of New York City, culinary magic happens at every corner. Quite literally.
For a quintessential New York experience, head to Lombardi’s, the oldest pizzeria in the United States. Here, you’ll have the best freshly baked pizza, with its wild flavor and crispiest crusts. Up as its competition is Katz’s Delicatessen, a Lower East Side legend. Their towering pastrami sandwiches are a New York favorite by a huge margin.
And let’s not forget about the bagels. Ess-a-Bagel, with its hand-rolled, kettle-boiled wonders, is a temple to this New York staple. Each bite is a harmonious blend of chewy inside and crispy outside, a perfect canvas for schmears of cream cheese or layers of smoked salmon.
The Halal Guys, with their mouth-watering platters of chicken or gyro over rice, offer a taste of the Middle East right on the sidewalk.
5. Istanbul, Turkey
Nestled at the crossroads of East and West, Istanbul is a city that wears its cultural mosaic with pride. This metropolis effortlessly blends history, tradition, and, of course, cuisine.
You will find succulent kebabs, marinated to perfection and kissed by the flames here. The air carries the sweet, irresistible scent of baklava, a pastry masterpiece dripping with honey and layered with flaky goodness.
And then there are the mezze platters, a captivating ensemble of small, flavorful dishes meant for sharing. From creamy hummus to zesty eggplant dips, each bite is a journey through centuries of culinary artistry.
6. Marrakech, Morocco
Marrakech is a Moroccan gem for food lovers who are eager to explore exotic spices and fragrant herbs.
Tagines, slow-cooked stews infused with a blend of spices, are the heart of Moroccan cuisine. Fluffy couscous, a versatile base, pairs perfectly with meats, veggies, and aromatic herbs. Wandering through lively markets, the air is filled with the enticing scent of spices.
Delicate pastries like mille-feuille and almond-filled briouats showcase Moroccan culinary finesse. Marrakech is a city that leaves taste buds dancing with delight.
Want to have the full global experience? Check out many more foodie travel guides here.
7. Barcelona, Spain
In the heart of Catalonia, Barcelona is a city that whispers ancient culinary secrets.
Essentials include tapas, a wide variety of small, savory dishes, often served as appetizers or snacks. These can include a diverse range of foods such as olives, cheese, ham, seafood, vegetables, and more.
And then, there’s paella. Saffron-kissed rice cradles a symphony of succulent seafood and a riot of fresh, sun-kissed vegetables. Every spoonful is a journey to the sunny shores of the Mediterranean.
Don’t miss the legendary eateries! Visit ‘El Quim de la Boqueria‘, a tiny gem in the bustling La Boqueria market, where Chef Quim serves tapas that dance on the taste buds. And for a taste of authentic paella, ‘7 Portes‘ is a century-old institution where tradition meets perfection.
8. Bangalore, India
In the heart of India, Bangalore is a city of emerald gardens and an even more opulent culinary scene.
Often called the “Garden City of India,” it’s a sanctuary for food enthusiasts eager to savor the diverse flavors of the subcontinent.
Begin the day with a crisp dosa or Idli, a South Indian culinary cornerstone, made of steamed rice cakes fashioned from a fermented amalgamation of rice and lentil batter. These delicacies are famed for their pillowy softness and are customarily accompanied by an assortment of chutneys and sambar, a savory lentil soup enriched with spices.
Bisi Bele Bath, a robust Karnataka specialty, combines rice, lentils, and a medley of distinctive spices into a fiery and flavorful dish. Often embellished with ghee-roasted cashews, it is made of boondi, crispy chickpea flour spheres.
Akki Rotti, another beloved Karnataka creation, is rice flatbread crafted from rice flour, grated vegetables, and an aromatic blend of spices. Typically partnered with either coconut chutney or zesty tomato chutney, it graces the table with its rustic charm.
If you’re taking a road trip across the country, why not check out our road travel essential checklist to make sure you have the best on-the-road experience?
9. Lima, Peru
Nestled along the coast of Peru, Lima is the place to be for foodies looking for tangy, spicy food. Known as the gastronomic capital of South America, this city is a melting pot of culinary influences. Here, indigenous Peruvian ingredients meet Spanish, Asian, and African flavors.
Mole sauces, delicate ceviche, and tender anticuchos are just a few stars in Lima’s culinary constellation.
The fusion of cultures is evident in every bite. Spanish conquistadors brought olives and citrus, Asian immigrants introduced soy and ginger and Africans contributed unique spices.
10. Oaxaca, Mexico
Let’s jet off to the south of the border, all the way to Oaxaca. This Mexican gem is a culinary hotspot, where mole sauces, tlayudas, and the smoky allure of mezcal take center stage.
Wandering through Oaxaca’s streets and markets is a feast for the senses. The air is thick with the loud scent of Oaxacan chocolate, and vibrant displays of chillies, tomatoes, and avocados compete for attention.
Mole, the heart and soul of Oaxacan cuisine, comes in a rainbow of flavors – from the sultry richness of mole negro to the bright, fiery embrace of mole amarillo.
Tlayudas, a local specialty, are a dance of textures and tastes. A crispy tortilla, generously slathered with a base of refried beans, and adorned with a colorful array of toppings, it’s a delight for both the eyes and palate. And then, there’s mezcal – Oaxaca’s smoky elixir.
11. Tel Aviv, Israel
In Tel Aviv, the vibrant hum of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cultures harmonize to create a culinary experience that’s just as fascinating as Israel’s backdrop.
Here, you can savor the creamiest hummus, delicately spiced falafel, and succulent shawarma. Street corners and markets brim with vendors, each offering their unique twist on these beloved classics. As the sun sets over the Mediterranean, a stroll along the beach promenade unveils a tapestry of dining options, from charming bistros to sleek, modern eateries.
12. Sydney, Australia
Down under in Sydney, the culinary landscape mirrors the city’s diverse population. This vibrant metropolis boasts a rich tapestry of flavors from around the globe. With its stunning harbor views and laid-back atmosphere, it’s the perfect setting for a culinary adventure.
Fresh seafood is a star of Sydney’s culinary show, with platters of oysters, prawns, and succulent fish gracing tables along the waterfront. Name any seafood dish, and chances are you’d find it here.
Gourmet dining establishments offer an array of international cuisines, from fragrant Thai curries to hearty Italian pasta.
And with all these cities that offer great food, there are still many more that didn’t make the list. Check out our YouTube channel here for many more foodie destinations for you and your loved ones.
Wherever you go, you are bound to find good food that adds to the full experience. But these 11 cities make sure you never have a shortage of options when it comes to eating, so your family can have the full family vacation experience.