The Ultimate Guide to the Best Culinary Destinations From Peru to Mexico City

2023-10-08 05:12:23 - Drany Macley Drany Macley, the senior editor of Vytravels.com, brings extensive journalism background and over eight years of experience in travel writing and editing to the site, offering practical insights and first-hand knowledge through articles on innovative hotels, backed by a BA in Journalism from Ithaca College.

Do you dream of indulging your taste buds in the most exquisite dishes from around the world? Prepare to embark on a mouthwatering journey as we unveil the best culinary destinations across the globe. From the vibrant food markets of Peru to the vineyards of Argentina, the vibrant street food scene in Tokyo to the charming cafes of Paris, this article will take you on an unforgettable gastronomic adventure. So, grab your forks and get ready to savor the flavors of Peru, Mendoza, Stellenbosch, Catalunya, Sicily, Naples, and many more. Let your taste buds guide you through a world of delectable delights. Get ready to explore the top-notch destinations that will leave you craving for more!

Peru

Peru is widely recognized for its trendy, inventive, and distinct culinary dishes that are gaining the attention of food critics from around the world. While traditional indigenous Peruvian cuisine revolved around corn, chili peppers, and potatoes (given the abundance of over 3000 different varieties), modern Peruvian cuisine is a fusion of local and foreign influences, including Spanish, African, French, Asian, Italian, and British cuisine. This unique blend of flavors, cultures, and traditions has established Peru, especially Lima and Cusco, as emerging global culinary hubs.

cevicheWhat to Eat: You simply can't leave Peru without trying the national dish, "Ceviche." This refreshing and tangy marinated fish dish is typically served with boiled sweet potatoes or corn and can be found in almost every restaurant in Peru!

What to Drink: When thinking about Peruvian drinks, the first one that comes to mind for many travelers is the Pisco Sour – a cocktail that originated in Lima in the 1920s and remains Peru's national drink today! The Pisco Sour is made with lime juice, egg white, sugar syrup, and topped off with Angostura bitters.

Fun Fact: There are over 3000 varieties of potatoes in Peru, and it is believed that the potato was first domesticated in southern Peru between 8000 and 5000 BC.

Experience Peru's Cuisine:

Mendoza, Argentina

Restaurant at Bodega Ruca MalenRestaurant at Bodega Ruca MalenSome of the finest wines come from Mendoza, but did you know about its culinary scene? Mendoza is the perfect destination for food enthusiasts who want to indulge in good food, wine, and adventures all in one place.

Many of the top wineries in the region offer impressive multi-course wine lunches at their winery restaurants, boasting breathtaking views of the Andes from every seat and unlimited wine to accompany your meal.

Visit these wineries and restaurants for a complete foodie experience in Mendoza:

Tours you may enjoy:

Stellenbosch, South Africa

Wine tasting at SpierWine tasting at SpierJust an hour outside of Cape Town lies the Stellenbosch Wine Region of South Africa. Of all the places we've visited for wine tasting, Stellenbosch is our favorite. The winery experience here is welcoming and relaxed.

You can join a tour with a group to ensure a designated driver, or plan your own winery tour. When you arrive at a winery, you'll have the opportunity to relax at a table or on a comfy couch while wine samples are brought to you.

The region also boasts a multitude of top restaurants with chefs who are knowledgeable about wine and create masterpieces that complement the local wines. Some of the must-try foodie experiences in Stellenbosch include:

When you've satisfied your food cravings in Stellenbosch, there's another nearby wine region to explore: Franschhoek. Both areas are renowned for their gourmet cuisine and exceptional wines.

⇒ Try one of these excellent culinary vacations in South Africa.

Tours you might enjoy:

Catalunya, Spain

Nick & Laura in Girona, SpainNick & Laura on a Girona Food TourIf you've been to Spain, you know that the entire country is rich in culture, heritage, and unique products and foods specific to each region. Catalunya is one of those regions, and you'll be amazed by the abundance of unique products, recipes, and foods you can find there.

Catalunya has a complex food culture. Not only does it offer specific products that you won't find in other parts of Spain, but each smaller area within Catalunya also has its own unique dishes. As a foodie in this region, you'll truly immerse yourself in a rich food culture. Food is an integral part of Catalans' identity.

During our time there, we discovered a plethora of products and foods that you must try. You can visit wineries (Catalunya has many different wine regions, including Priorat and Emporda, and they also produce Cava), indulge in local delicacies, and explore the variety of unique dishes each area offers.

Sicily, Italy

Taormina, one of the most charming villages in Sicily

Sicily, the Mediterranean gem of Italy, has a fascinating history and a food culture shaped by past civilizations.

After spending several months on the island exploring local food specialties, we can say that the food and history of Sicily are truly worth knowing.

Sicilian cuisine is rich in history, incorporating influences from Arab, Spanish, and Greek settlers. Some of the iconic dishes unique to this region are true gems you won't find anywhere else in Italy.

Your taste buds will delight in Sicily's iconic dishes such as pasta alla norma, caponata, arancini rice balls, and frozen treats like granita.

As you explore the region and its charms, be sure to savor the most famous Sicilian dessert, cannoli, filled with whipped ricotta.

Don't miss out on sampling the chocolate from Modica, sfincione (a focaccia-like bread with condiments), and pane e panelle (pancakes) that are typical of Sicilian gastronomy.

To immerse yourself in the local food culture, take the time to explore the food markets of Palermo with a local guide who can share the history, food traditions, and unique architecture with you. Don't forget to visit Mount Etna from Catania and experience Etna wines during lunch and wine visits.

Nothing completes a foodie vacation like learning how to make traditional Sicilian dishes. Take cooking classes in a local Sicilian family home and discover the secrets of authentic Italian food.

While Italy is renowned for its food, the island of Sicily stands out as a destination where you can spend weeks or even months savoring the culinary delights it has to offer.

Other culinary tours you may enjoy:

Naples, Italy

Pizzeria Da AttilioGiardiniera “Malvano” – 8-point star-shaped pizza

Each region of Italy has its own list of specialty foods that you must try, and Naples is no exception. From the iconic Neopolitan pizza to deep-fried macaroni and rum-soaked sponge cakes, Naples offers a wide array of culinary delights waiting to be discovered.

Be prepared – there are a plethora of delectable treats to enjoy in this city. To truly experience the best of Italian food in Naples, there's no better way than to go on a food tour with Eating Europe. During our week in Naples, we went on a quest to find the best pizza in the city.

Our favorite pizza was at Pizzeria Da Attilio, but there are also memorable pizzas at 50 Kalo and Antico Borgo Ai Vergini. These are just a few examples of top-notch pizza places in Naples. Other must-try foods include Pizza Fritta, Cuoppo, and Pasta Frittatine.

Tours you might enjoy:

Bologna, Italy

Food tour in Italy, parmigiano factoryFood tour in Italy, parmigiano factory

While Bologna and its surrounding area offer many tourist attractions, it is also one of the best culinary vacation spots in the world.

There are countless food experiences to have in this area, from comprehensive DOP food tours that take you to a Parmigiano-Reggiano factory, a Parma ham production facility, and a traditional Balsamic vinegar home, to more intimate cooking classes in the city. You will never run out of food-related things to do in Bologna.

The Emilia-Romagna area, with Bologna as its capital, is known for its wines. While many associate the region with sparkling semi-sweet Lambrusco wine, the area also produces mostly Sangiovese red wines, similar to neighboring Tuscany.

A trip to Romagna for wine tasting will introduce you to a whole new world of wines. You'll discover flavors you didn't know existed.

⇒ Find a wonderful culinary vacation in Bologna.

Tours you might enjoy:

Rome, Italy

Rome is a classic culinary destination in Europe that every foodie should visit at least once. The Eternal City is renowned for its pasta dishes like rigatoni carbonara and cacio e pepe.

One popular snack unique to Rome is suppli – fried rice balls filled with meat, tomato sauce, and mozzarella. Rome is also famous for having some of the best gelato in all of Italy.

Rome is a great base for foodie day trips, such as visiting the coastal city of Naples, where you can try what many argue is the best pizza in Italy.

Tours you might enjoy:

Paris, France

Escargot in FranceEscargot in France

When people plan trips to Paris, they often forget that the city is a foodie paradise, despite being in France. There are so many fun food experiences in Paris that can enhance your sightseeing, create lasting memories, and provide a diverse and interesting itinerary.

Alongside iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Sacre-Coeur, croissants and Croque Monsieurs belong. No vacation in the French capital is complete without trying the foods that make the country so unique – yes, that includes escargot and frog's legs!

Whether it's visiting one of Paris' many street food markets, indulging in crepes at a local stand, or taking a full-day food tour, there are countless ways to savor and enjoy Parisian cuisine.

For those with extra time, venture outside the city to explore the Bordeaux or Champagne wine regions. Visit Reims and Epernay, two main cities of Champagne, to delve into the world of French wines.

Tours you might enjoy:

Bordeaux, France

Duck ConfitBiking through vineyards (CC photo by Warren Rohner)Combine the delicious wines of Bordeaux with stunning scenery, and you have the ultimate dream vacation for foodies in France. It's recommended to spend at least a week in Bordeaux to fully appreciate all it has to offer. You can dedicate two days to the Left Bank and two days to the Right Bank and still only scratch the surface of the region's wine and food possibilities.

Don't miss out on exploring the center of Bordeaux, where you'll find incredible food options, from wine bars to street food markets. The newly opened wine museum is also a must-visit.

Biking through the gorgeous Bordeaux countryside is perfect for wine enthusiasts, foodies, and anyone who wants to soak in the beauty of the vineyards. You can enjoy a winery biking tour through the Left Bank or the Right Bank. The area around Saint-Emilion is particularly enchanting and offers flat, easy-to-ride terrain.

Imagine savoring foie gras, duck confit, and black truffles accompanied by bold and complex Bordeaux wines. Gourmet lunches and dinners paired with world-class wine await you every day. It doesn't get any better than this.

Check out these guided foodie activities in Bordeaux:

READ MORE:

The Best Sicilian Food: 25 Authentic Dishes in Sicily You Must Eat

London, England

Afternoon tea at London Bridge HotelIndulge in a delightful afternoon tea at London Bridge Hotel (Photo by Savored Journeys)Another urban gem that often goes unnoticed as a culinary destination is London. However, it would be a mistake to overlook it! London reigns as the ultimate food capital, boasting an unparalleled variety of international dining options, immersive culinary experiences, and a plethora of foodie-related activities.

It's common for people to assume that London lacks good food, reducing it to just fish and chips and traditional pub fare. But this couldn't be further from the truth. In reality, London stands as one of the largest culinary hubs in the world, with a vibrant food scene that caters to every taste and preference. Moreover, where else in the world can you find such a wide selection of afternoon tea choices?

You can explore the numerous food markets scattered throughout London, with Camden Market and Borough Market being two of our personal favorites. Alternatively, you can take a break from your food adventures and indulge in the vibrant street food scene at the trendy and enjoyable Boxpark in Shoreditch.

We have an absolute soft spot for Soho, given its dizzying array of food options. In every corner, you'll find a different restaurant, wine bar, pub, waffle bar, gelateria, and more. The culinary landscape in London is truly unparalleled.

Tours you might enjoy:

San Sebastian, Spain

San Sebastian, a charming city located on the northern coast of Spain in the Basque region, often remains overshadowed. However, it has rightfully earned its reputation as one of the culinary capitals of the world, boasting the highest number of Michelin-starred restaurants per capita!

In addition to its renowned Michelin-starred establishments, San Sebastian is famous for its pintxos, which are similar to tapas found in other parts of Spain. Explore the city and savor bite-sized delicacies and local drinks at the numerous pintxos bars.

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Bar in San Sebastian Spain

Porto, Portugal

The diverse culinary landscape and excellent wines in Porto will leave you in awe.

Porto, the vibrant second city of Portugal, stands as an exceptional destination for food enthusiasts.

As a UNESCO Heritage Site and a laid-back port city, its culinary scene combines fine dining with homestyle cooking.

Porto's cuisine draws influences from the Trás-os-Montes mountains and the stunning hillsides of Douro Valley.

During our month-long stay in the country, we fell in love with Porto's food variety and exquisite wines.

The iconic Francesinha sandwich, a local adaptation of the French croque monsieur, is a must-try dish. You can even try making it at home using this Francesinha recipe before visiting Porto.

Other delights include Porto's traditional tripe dish, pasteis de Chaves (puff pastries), and desserts like tarte de amêndoa (almond tart).

Make sure to visit Mercado do Bolhão to sample meats, cheeses, and traditional desserts. Or embark on a 3-hour food and wine tasting tour through the city's charming streets, featuring cultural stops.

Don't miss the opportunity to explore the Douro Valley, renowned for its Port wines and exceptional table wines. It's a must-visit for any food and wine lover.

Porto rightfully earns its place as one of the best foodie destinations in Portugal. With its sensational local dishes and exquisite wines, make Porto your next culinary travel adventure.

Other culinary tours you may enjoy:

Porto: 3-Hour Port Wine Walking Tour with Tastings

Traditional Portuguese Cooking Class in Porto

Portugal: Walking & Wine

READ MORE: 7 of the Best Porto Food Tours You Want To Try

Copenhagen, Denmark

Ceviche of trout with cucumbersSavor a delightful ceviche of trout with cucumbers in Copenhagen, Denmark (Photo by Savored Journeys)Copenhagen is a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts, with one of its highlights being Noma, a highly acclaimed restaurant that has consistently ranked among The World's 50 Best Restaurants.

Renowned chef and owner, Rene Redzepi, never fails to captivate diners with his cutting-edge menu. While Noma is notoriously difficult to secure a reservation and can be quite pricey, Copenhagen is blessed with chefs who have trained at Noma and have ventured to open their own remarkable restaurants, such as 108, Amass, and Sanchez.

We have several personal favorites in Copenhagen, including the Michelin-starred restaurant Relae, which was the first all-organic establishment to make The World's 50 Best Restaurants list. Baest, owned by the same group, and AOC, a two-Michelin-starred gem, are also extraordinary choices that shouldn't be missed.

For a more laid-back culinary experience, the trendy food-filled Reffen located on Copenhagen's industrial Refshaleøen is the perfect destination. Here, you can indulge in high-quality international dishes served by food trucks and stalls.

Where to stay in Copenhagen: Consider 71 Nyhavn Hotel (see prices and read reviews).

Tours you might enjoy:

Izmir, Turkey

Izmir offers an abundance of mouthwatering fish and seafood dishes, fresh from the boat (Photo by AuthenticFoodQuest)Turkey is a popular tourist destination renowned for its rich history, vibrant culture, and diverse culinary experiences.

Whether you find yourself in Istanbul, Cappadocia, or Izmir, you'll encounter exceptional gastronomy at every turn.

Izmir, with its blend of traditional charm and modernity, stands out as an unforgettable destination for food enthusiasts.

Widely regarded as the capital of Aegean cuisine, Izmir boasts a fusion of Ottoman, Greek, Jewish, Italian, and French influences.

During our memorable Izmir food tour, we fell in love with the city's healthy eating options, featuring fresh salads, vegetables, and seafood. The local Mediterranean diet is a dream come true for vegetarians.

Meat and seafood lovers can indulge in specialties like Kokorec and Midye (stuffed mussels).

The streets of Izmir are filled with street food delicacies including Gevrek, Boyoz, Kumru, Söğüş, and many others that will quickly become your favorites.

Of course, no culinary adventure is complete without experiencing the local sweet specialties. Be sure to try Izmir Bombas, delectable filled pastries, as well as other delightful sweets like Shambali cake and Subye sherbet.

Immerse yourself in the culinary wonders of Izmir by embarking on an unforgettable Izmir city gourmet tour. Accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide, you'll discover hidden culinary gems and experience the city like never before.

As one of the premier food vacations, Izmir offers a combination of rich history, a stunning coastline, and a culinary scene shaped by centuries of diverse cultures.

Other culinary tours you may enjoy:

Ancient Ephesus Tour and Visit to Old Village Sirince with Wine Tasting

7-Day Cooking Vacation: Bodrum Turkish Culinary Retreat

Istanbul, Turkey

Turkish mezeImmerse yourself in the delightful world of Turkish cuisine in Istanbul (Photo by Savored Journeys)A fantastic destination for food lovers, Turkey offers a myriad of culinary delights that will leave you craving for more. As one of the most visited countries worldwide, Turkey captivates travelers with its seaside resorts along the Mediterranean Sea, historical sites, warm hospitality, rich culture, captivating museums, and, of course, its mouthwatering Turkish dishes.

Whether you're exploring Istanbul, Cappadocia, or one of the other renowned cities in Turkey, you'll be delighted by the exceptional food available at every corner. Each region boasts its unique twists on traditional dishes, but be sure to keep an eye out for culinary treasures like Doner Kebab, Meze, Pide, and Baklava.

Tours you might enjoy:

Tokyo, Japan

Sushi Matsue in TokyoExperience the finest sushi at Sushi Matsue in Tokyo (Photo by Savored Journeys)As a devoted sushi fan, I can confidently say that Tokyo is home to the freshest, most phenomenal sushi in the world. If that alone doesn't entice you to plan your next foodie vacation in Japan, then let me share some more reasons with you.

How about the incredibly fun and unique izakayas hidden away in the city's back alleys? Don't be fooled by their dive bar aesthetics – they're a true adventure for any food enthusiast. And let's not forget about the legendary Tsukiji outer market, an absolute must-visit in Tokyo.

Prepare to encounter an array of foods you've never heard of before, along with a wide selection of distinctive Japanese beverages. Sampling everything from gyoza to okonomiyaki, ramen to takoyaki, allows you to appreciate the exceptional mastery of each cuisine by its dedicated chefs.

Another highly recommended activity for food lovers in Tokyo is participating in a traditional tea ceremony. Immerse yourself in the art of tea and learn about the proper etiquette during an informal ceremony held in the serene Hamarikyu Gardens. All of these experiences and more are included in our comprehensive 3-day foodie guide to Tokyo.

Tours you might enjoy:

Kyoto, Japan

While Tokyo may attract more tourists, Kyoto should not be overlooked as it stands as one of the premier foodie destinations in Japan.

Renowned for its numerous Michelin-starred restaurants, Kyoto invites you to indulge in its local specialties, including soba noodles, ramen, and green tea desserts.

Kyoto, Japan - July 22, 2015 : Yasaka Pagoda and Sannen Zaka Street at Kyoto, Japan

Dotonbori, Osaka, Japan

Okonomiyaki - an Osaka specialtyFeast on the famous Osaka specialty, Okonomiyaki, in the vibrant atmosphere of Dotonbori, Osaka (Photo by Savored Journeys)When it comes to culinary delights, few places can rival Japan's diverse offerings. However, if I had to choose just one destination, a single street in Osaka would steal the spotlight – Dotonbori. And one of my ultimate favorite dishes found there is the renowned Osaka specialty, Okonomiyaki, captured in the image above.

Dōtonbori canal stretches along Dōtonboribashi Bridge to Nipponbashi Bridge in Osaka's Namba district. Despite covering a relatively small area of only about 8 blocks, it is an absolute food paradise, packed to the brim with restaurants, food stalls, and street vendors offering a wide array of Japanese delicacies. Dotonbori truly embodies the essence of culinary excellence!

Around 5pm, Dotonbori magically transforms from a quiet, partially deserted street into a bustling and lively food metropolis. You'll find lines of people eagerly waiting to get their hands on trays of freshly grilled delights – from gyoza and yakisoba to takoyaki and okonomiyaki. If it can be eaten, chances are it's being sold in Dotonbori. On this iconic street, food reigns supreme!

Tours you might enjoy:

Hong Kong

Roast Goose

Hong Kong is a remarkable city for food lovers, offering a diverse range of food stalls, restaurants, and dishes influenced by various cultures. To fully immerse yourself in the culinary scene and discover the best places to eat and drink, taking a food tour is highly recommended.

With a plethora of restaurants in the city, many Western travelers may be unfamiliar with the unique and delicious foods available. That's where an expert guide comes in, introducing you to these incredible culinary experiences. Dim sum is undoubtedly one of Hong Kong's most iconic dishes, and you can even find affordable dim sum restaurants that have been awarded Michelin stars.

For an exceptional dim sum meal, head to Tim Ho Wan or try One Dim Sum. But the dish you cannot miss is the roast goose. It is a true Hong Kong delicacy, featuring crispy skin, tender meat, and a layer of rendered fat that adds incredible flavor.

We had the pleasure of ordering roast goose at Yat Lok Roast Goose, a small restaurant located in the Central neighborhood of Hong Kong Island.

Tours you might enjoy:

Melbourne, Australia

Kingfish sashimi at Chin Chin in Melbourne

Kingfish sashimi at Chin Chin in Melbourne (photo by Savored Journeys)

Melbourne, Australia, is a vibrant food city boasting numerous excellent restaurants throughout the city. One must-visit area for food lovers is Flinders Lane, which is home to some of our favorite dining establishments. Two highly recommended restaurants in this area are Chin Chin and Lucy Liu.

While exploring Melbourne, don't miss the chance to venture out to the beautiful Yarra Valley wine region. With over a dozen wineries to visit, it's a paradise for wine enthusiasts. The cool climate in the region allows for the production of Chardonnays, Pinot Noirs, and sparkling wines.

Melbourne is also renowned for hosting the Melbourne Food & Wine Festival, one of the best food and wine events in the world. This 17-day festival takes place in March and attracts culinary superstars from around the globe, who create unforgettable dishes for participants to savor. The festival draws in over 250,000 visitors each year.

Tours you might enjoy:

New York City, New York, USA

Katz Delicatessen

Katz DelicatessenNew York City is a culinary mecca, offering an extraordinary array of food options. From street vendors to Michelin-starred restaurants and unique, one-of-a-kind dishes, there is something to satisfy every palate.

The city is known for setting culinary trends and is home to many exceptionally talented chefs. These chefs have their own restaurants, making it relatively easy for diners to experience their expertise. Some noteworthy establishments to consider are Le Bernardin, Eleven Madison Park, and Cosme, which is helmed by the legendary chef from Mexico City's Pujol.

No visit to New York City would be complete without indulging in iconic favorites like Katz Delicatessen, Momofuku Noodle Bar, and Peter Luger Steak House. You'll also find an abundance of thin, wide slices of New York-style pizza, street hot dogs, Jewish delis, and extravagant brunch options. The city offers a world of culinary delights waiting to be discovered.

Tours you might enjoy:

New Orleans, Louisiana

Lobster PoBoy

Lobster PoBoy from GW Fins (photo cc2.0 by nolamaven)

New Orleans is a city renowned for its unique and flavorful cuisine, which goes far beyond typical American food. Influenced by Creole and French traditions, the food scene in New Orleans is a vibrant melting pot of flavors and cultures that will satisfy any foodie's craving for new experiences.

In addition to a plethora of talented chefs and incredible dining establishments, New Orleans boasts a sophisticated cocktail scene. Many of the city's cocktails have a rich history, stemming from its eclectic past. Sipping on a cocktail is not only enjoyable but also provides an opportunity to learn about the drink's origins.

Tours you might enjoy:

Tokyo, Japan

Sushi Matsue in Tokyo

Sushi Matsue in Tokyo (Photo by Savored Journeys)

If you're a sushi lover, Tokyo is a destination that cannot be missed. It is home to some of the freshest, most exquisite sushi in the world. But that's not all Tokyo has to offer for food enthusiasts.

Venture into the city's back alleys and hidden corners, and you'll find mesmerizing izakayas that will take you on a culinary adventure. These cozy and immersive spots are far from dive bars, offering an array of exciting dishes and flavors. Another must-visit is the famous Tsukiji outer market, where you can explore a wide range of obscure and unique foods, as well as Japanese drinks.

Tokyo allows you to savor the best of every type of Japanese cuisine, from gyoza to okonomiyaki, ramen, and takoyaki. The city's chefs are masters of their craft, ensuring that each dish is prepared with utmost artistry and expertise.

Participating in a traditional tea ceremony is another delightful activity for food lovers in Tokyo. You can experience this ancient ritual and learn the proper etiquette in a relaxed setting, such as the Hamarikyu Gardens.

These are just a few highlights from our comprehensive 3-day foodie guide to Tokyo.

Tours you might enjoy:

Crete, Greece

Experience the delightful local cuisine by the sea and immerse yourself in the Cretan way of life.

Crete is not only a favorite destination for travelers but also for Greeks themselves when it comes to foodie vacations. During our five-month stay on the island, we were captivated by the local cuisine, regional wines, and the exceptional olive oil and honey.

Cretan cuisine is a gastronomic treasure that has evolved over centuries, incorporating seasonal ingredients like fresh seafood, locally grown vegetables, and fruits, all enhanced by the abundant use of olive oil. The simplicity of preparation and emphasis on fresh, high-quality ingredients make it one of the healthiest Mediterranean diets.

While in Crete, embrace the local culinary traditions and indulge in dishes like Cretan dakos and kalitsounia cheese pies. Pair your seafood or lamb stews with horta, the wild greens that are endemic to the island. Don't miss out on Cretan wedding rice, known as gamopilafo, which holds a special place in local culture and celebrations.

A meal in Crete begins and ends with the Cretan liquor called tsikoudia or raki, a gesture of hospitality that is deeply ingrained in the island's traditions.

Visiting Greece's largest island also offers the opportunity to discover the intriguing local Cretan wines. Taste unique varieties like red Kostifali or Mandilari and the celebrated white Vidiano wine.

If you're interested in learning how to cook authentic Cretan dishes, consider joining a real Cretan cooking experience, where you can step into a local's home and immerse yourself in the culinary traditions of the island. In Chania, known for its enchanting Venetian Harbor, you can also take a wine and food walking tour, combining history with delectable local delicacies.

Greece is undoubtedly one of the world's top food destinations, and Crete shines as a hidden gem for food lovers.

Other culinary tours you may enjoy:

-The Miracle of Olive Oil – A Day Tour From Chania

-Crete: Olive Oil Tasting With Cretan Food Pairing

-7 Day Private Tour and Culinary Vacation in Crete

RELATED: Food in Crete – Your Guide To The Best Authentic Food on the Island

Mexico City, Mexico

Mexico City is a bustling metropolis renowned for its vibrant food scene, making it a must-visit destination for foodies seeking authentic Mexican cuisine.

From award-winning restaurants to mouthwatering street tacos and mezcal and tequila tastings, you can easily spend an entire week indulging in the culinary delights of Mexico City.

Taste the rich flavors of traditional Mexican dishes, explore the diverse culinary landscape, and immerse yourself in the city's gastronomic heritage.

Tours you might enjoy:

Thank you for following our culinary journey around the world!

Whether you're a lover of exotic flavors, classic dishes, or innovative culinary creations, these destinations offer a delectable array of options that will satisfy even the most discerning palates. From the rich and diverse cuisine of Peru to the vibrant food scenes of Tokyo and Melbourne, each of these culinary destinations promises a gastronomic journey like no other. So pack your bags, embark on a culinary adventure, and discover the mouth-watering delights that await you in these extraordinary corners of the world. Bon appétit!

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