Plan your dream trip based on your interests: FOODIES🍜🥂
Dear readers……
your dear author has a confession to make.
She is a chronic picky eater.
Just a few months ago, as I’ve mentioned in previous blog posts, I took a two week trip to the beautiful country of Türkiye. It was a wonderful adventure filled with heartwarming interactions with locals, once-in-a-lifetime experiences, and views that left my chatty self totally speechless!
But when people ask me about it, I can’t help but always say something along the lines of:
“I had the BEST time! But I really wasn’t a fan of the food…..”
Now I know that there are many fantastic restaurants in Turkey, and lots of people enjoy the food there. But for my picky self, and being a big “texture eater” I mostly ate their local dish “manti” (a sort of pasta) and vehemently avoided any of their dishes with goat or sheep 😅
On the flip side, when I talk about my time in Italy or Korea, I’ll never forget to mention how I cried after my first bite of pasta in Rome, or how outrageously delicious and cheap street food is in Seoul.
Here at Insignia Destinations, we understand that for many people, the presence of good food can really make or break your trip!
That’s why we chose as the next topic in our blog series, “Plan your dream trip based on your interests…”, the best spots to travel to if you consider yourself a “foodie ”!
What is a “foodie”, you may ask?
Here’s our dear friend Wikipedia’s shining definition:
“A foodie is a person who has an ardent or refined interest in food, and who eats food not only out of hunger but also as a hobby. The related terms "gastronome" and "gourmet" define roughly the same thing, i.e. a person who enjoys food for pleasure.”
If you resonate with this, then stay tuned!
We’ve researched…
The top 6 countries to visit for foodies
The best high end restaurant to visit
The best budget option
….and what to order in each 😎
Starting with…
1. ITALY 🍝
Italy is a culinary haven for foodies. Renowned for its diverse regional cuisines, Italy captivates with a rich tapestry of flavors, each reflecting the unique culture and traditions of its respective area.
From the savory delights of pizza in Naples to the exquisite pasta dishes of Bologna and the seafood-infused creations of the Amalfi Coast, Italian cuisine is a celebration of simplicity and quality ingredients.
The emphasis on fresh, locally sourced produce, coupled with a deep-rooted respect for culinary traditions, results in an unparalleled dining experience.
Luxury option: “Osteria Francescana” in Modena, Italy
Osteria Francescana in Modena, Italy, is often regarded as one of the best luxury restaurants for foodies. It has received acclaim for its innovative approach to traditional Italian dishes. The restaurant, led by chef Massimo Bottura, has been awarded three Michelin stars and has ranked high in prestigious international restaurant rankings.
What to order: Try "The Crunchy Part of the Lasagna," a creative and signature dish.
Budget option: “ Da Enzo al 29” in Rome
Nestled in Rome's Trastevere neighborhood, Da Enzo al 29 is a delightful trattoria cherished for its authentic Roman fare and welcoming ambiance. With a commitment to high-quality, locally sourced ingredients, it offers a genuine taste of traditional Roman cuisine in a rustic and inviting setting, making it a beloved choice for both locals and visitors seeking an unpretentious culinary experience.
What to order: Cacio e Pepe, a simple yet flavorful pasta dish with cheese and pepper.
2. FRANCE 🥖
France stands as a premier destination for food enthusiasts, captivating visitors with its diverse and delectable culinary offerings.
Renowned for its culinary excellence, the country boasts iconic dishes like coq au vin and escargot, each region contributing its unique flavors and specialties. From the bustling food markets to quaint bistros and Michelin-starred restaurants, the gastronomic scene in France reflects a perfect blend of tradition and innovation.
Luxury option: “Le Bernardin” in Paris
Le Bernardin, nestled in central Paris, is a renowned three-Michelin-starred seafood restaurant led by Chef Eric Ripert. With a commitment to the finest ingredients, Le Bernardin's menu, which evolves with the seasons, highlights culinary excellence. The elegant ambiance and impeccable service make it a must-visit destination for those seeking a luxurious seafood dining experience in Paris.
What to order: Bouillabaisse for a taste of traditional Provençal fish stew.
Budget option: “Le Comptoir du Relais” in Paris
Le Comptoir du Relais, situated in the vibrant Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood of Paris, is a charming bistro known for its authentic French dining experience. With its classic Parisian ambiance and cozy interior, the restaurant captures the essence of traditional French cuisine.
Led by renowned chef Yves Camdeborde, Le Comptoir du Relais offers a menu that features French culinary classics with a modern twist. The restaurant's reputation for quality ingredients and a warm, welcoming atmosphere makes it a favorite among locals and visitors seeking an intimate taste of Parisian gastronomy.
What to order: Croque-Monsieur for a classic French sandwich
3. SPAIN ♨️
Spain beckons foodies with a gastronomic adventure, where each region unfolds a unique culinary narrative. From the iconic paellas of the coast to the delightful pintxos of the north, Spain's diverse and flavorful offerings showcase a rich tapestry of tastes.
The country's cuisine is a celebration of bold flavors and inventive combinations, with an emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Luxury option: “El Celler de Can Roca “, Girona.
El Celler de Can Roca, located in Girona, Spain, is a world-renowned luxury restaurant that has consistently held a place among the best in the culinary world. Helmed by the Roca brothers—Joan, Josep, and Jordi—the restaurant boasts three Michelin stars and has been ranked at the pinnacle of prestigious international restaurant lists.
Known for its avant-garde techniques and a commitment to using locally sourced ingredients, the restaurant offers a transformative dining experience.
What to order: Indulge in the "El Menú Degustación" (Tasting Menu) for an extraordinary culinary journey.
Budget option: “Bar Tomás”, Barcelona
Nestled in Barcelona, Bar Tomás is a beloved and unassuming tapas bar. With a warm and bustling atmosphere, Bar Tomás captures the essence of authentic Catalan street food. Locals and visitors alike flock to this establishment to savor the simplicity and bold flavors that characterize its dishes. It truly is a must-visit for those seeking an authentic taste of Barcelona's culinary scene.
What to order: Try the classic "Patatas Bravas," crispy potatoes served with a spicy tomato-based sauce.
4. MEXICO 🌮
Mexico is an ideal destination for foodies, offering a vibrant culinary landscape that delights the palate with a diverse array of flavors. Renowned for its street tacos bursting with authenticity, intricate mole dishes, and bold salsas, Mexican cuisine is a celebration of tradition and innovation.
Each region contributes unique specialties, showcasing a rich fusion of indigenous ingredients and cultural influences. Whether exploring street food markets or indulging in high-end dining, a visit to Mexico promises a flavorful journey for those who love exceptional and diverse cuisine.
Luxury option: “Pujol” in Mexico City
“Pujol”, situated in Mexico City, is a perfect representation of Mexican culinary excellence and innovation. Renowned chef Enrique Olvera has elevated traditional Mexican cuisine to new heights, earning the restaurant a coveted spot on the global gastronomic stage.
Pujol is a gastronomic journey that seamlessly blends heritage and avant-garde techniques, offering a tasting menu that showcases the depth and complexity of Mexican flavors.
What to order: Mole Madre to experience the complexity of mole sauce.
Budget option: “El Califa” in Mexico City
El Califa in Mexico City is a revered establishment known for delivering an authentic and delightful street food experience. The vibrant and casual atmosphere, coupled with the savory aroma of grilled meats, creates an inviting setting for locals and visitors alike.
El Califa's commitment to fresh ingredients and traditional preparation methods makes it a must-visit for those seeking an immersive and genuine taste of Mexico City's street food culture.
What to order: Al Pastor Tacos for an authentic street food delight.
5. JAPAN 🍜
Japan is a top travel destination for food lovers due to its rich culinary diversity and dedication to exceptional flavors. Renowned for sushi, ramen, and kaiseki, Japan offers a unique gastronomic adventure. With meticulous preparation, quality ingredients, and regional specialties, it provides a perfect blend of tradition and innovation.
Whether enjoying street food in bustling markets or indulging in elegant dining experiences, Japan promises a delightful journey for those who appreciate outstanding and diverse cuisine.
Luxury option: Sukiyabashi Jiro in Tokyo
Located in Tokyo, Sukiyabashi Jiro stands as a legendary sushi restaurant renowned for its unparalleled commitment to the art of sushi craftsmanship. Founded by Jiro Ono, this intimate sushi haven has earned three Michelin stars and global acclaim. Each sushi piece, expertly crafted and served at the perfect temperature, embodies the essence of precision and simplicity.
What to order: Omakase (Chef's choice) for an exquisite selection of the freshest ingredients.
Budget option: Ichiraku Ramen in Kyoto
Ichiraku Ramen stands out as a local gem, celebrated for delivering an authentic and delectable ramen experience. Nestled in the heart of the city, this charming eatery captures the essence of Japanese comfort food. Their menu boasts a variety of ramen options, each featuring perfectly cooked noodles and flavorful broths. With its cozy atmosphere and a focus on the essentials of great ramen, Ichiraku Ramen offers both locals and visitors an inviting taste of Kyoto's culinary scene.
What to order: Shoyu Ramen for a delicious and affordable bowl of Japanese comfort food.
Wow….writing all of that certainly made me hungry 😅
What about you? Which of those restaurants/destinations stood out to you? 🤔
If you’re curious how much it would be to travel to Spain and try some Patatas Bravas, or indulge in a steaming bowl of Ramen in Japan, we can certainly help you there. Our inboxes are always open for free consultations and quotes!
Are you a foodie and want us to send you on a culinary adventure? Say less! 😌 Just pack your bags and prepare your appetite, we’ll take care of the rest 😋🛄