Embarking on a culinary adventure around the world is a delight for the senses, where flavours, aromas, and textures intertwine to create unforgettable gastronomic experiences. For food enthusiasts, nothing compares to the thrill of exploring different cultures through their cuisines. If you have an insatiable appetite for extraordinary flavours and are ready to embark on a global feast, join me as we uncover the best countries that tantalise the taste buds and satiate the wanderlust of any devoted foodie. From the vibrant street food scenes of Southeast Asia to the Michelin-starred temples of gastronomy in Europe, get ready to embark on a mouthwatering journey that will leave you craving for more and longing for your next culinary trip!
Japan
Japan is universally celebrated for its exceptional culinary traditions, making it a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts. The country's rich culinary heritage, meticulous attention to detail, use of fresh ingredients, and dedication to craftsmanship all contribute to its reputation as one of the best places worldwide for delicious food.
One of the factors that set Japan apart is its numerous Michelin-star restaurants. In the Michelin Guide Tokyo 2023, 200 restaurants in the Japanese capital were awarded stars. Among the notable Michelin-star restaurants are Sukiyabashi Jiro in Tokyo, which is renowned for its masterful sushi, and Kitcho in Kyoto, which specialises in elegant kaiseki. Other noteworthy restaurants worth mentioning include Den in Tokyo, known for its fun and innovative approach to traditional flavours.
Japan's culinary scene is diverse and unique, with regional dishes that go beyond Michelin-starred restaurants. Hokkaido, known for its seafood, offers fresh and succulent options like sashimi, grilled scallops, and creamy sea urchin. Kyoto, the cultural capital, presents tofu-based dishes, matcha-flavoured sweets, and traditional kaiseki meals. Osaka's street food is a must-try, including takoyaki (octopus balls), okonomiyaki (savoury pancakes), and melt-in-your-mouth kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers). Meanwhile, Hiroshima boasts the Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, a layered pancake filled with cabbage, noodles, and various toppings.
In addition, regional specialities like ramen, udon, and soba noodles can be found throughout the country, each with its own unique preparation and flavour profile. Japan is also famous for its wagyu beef, particularly the highly prized Kobe beef, renowned for its marbling and tenderness.
Whether it's the meticulous artistry of sushi, the delicate balance of flavours in kaiseki, or the comforting warmth of a bowl of ramen, Japan's culinary scene offers a delightful journey for food lovers.
When it comes to planning a culinary adventure to Japan, there's no better companion than the TripMapper app. With its user-friendly interface and comprehensive features, TripMapper allows travellers to curate their ideal itinerary for exploring Japan. It also assists in managing your travel budget by allowing you to set spending limits, track expenses, and receive real-time currency exchange rates. No need to worry about overspending while savouring the flavours of Japan! Available on the web, iOS, and Android platforms, TripMapper ensures that you have all the tools at your fingertips to make your food-focused journey through Japan a seamless and unforgettable experience!
Mexico
Mexico is renowned as one of the best countries in the world for its exceptional culinary heritage and is celebrated for its diverse and vibrant gastronomy. From street food to fine dining, Mexico offers a tantalising array of flavours and textures that excite and satisfy the taste buds.
When it comes to fine dining, Mexico boasts a number of Michelin-starred restaurants. Quintonil, located in Mexico City, is one such establishment that has earned two Michelin stars. Led by chef Jorge Vallejo, Quintonil presents a modern interpretation of traditional Mexican cuisine. Another noteworthy Michelin-starred restaurant in Mexico is Pujol, also located in Mexico City. Helmed by renowned chef Enrique Olvera, Pujol combines Mexican culinary traditions with contemporary techniques that have garnered the restaurant international acclaim.
Mexico's regional cuisine is just as impressive and diverse as its fine dining scene. In Oaxaca, for instance, the famous dish of mole negro entices with its intricate flavours derived from a blend of rich spices, chocolate, and chilli peppers. In Yucatán, cochinita pibil, a slow-roasted marinated pork dish, tantalises the palate with its succulent, tender meat and aromatic spices.
From the coastal regions, Mexico offers seafood dishes like ceviche and aguachile, showcasing the country's bountiful marine resources. In the northern states, carne asada, featuring grilled beef served with tortillas and salsa, reigns supreme.
Mexico's culinary landscape is a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and creativity. Whether it's indulging in Michelin-starred fine dining or tacos from a food stall, Mexico offers an extraordinary gastronomic adventure!
Italy
Italy is highly esteemed as a top destination for fantastic cuisine, and rightfully so. The country's culinary legacy is steeped in tradition, superior ingredients, and a love for cooking that has been handed down for generations. Italian dishes are renowned for their uncomplicated yet robust flavours.
Italy's gastronomic prowess can be attributed to its vast array of regional dishes, each with its own unique culinary traditions. In Lombardy, risotto alla Milanese is the star of the show. Meanwhile, in Naples, the tempting aroma of authentic Neapolitan pizza with its thin, crispy crust, San Marzano tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, and aromatic basil is simply irresistible.
Travelling south to Sicily, you'll discover a distinct culinary style that draws inspiration from Arabic, Greek, and Spanish traditions. The region is known for its arancini, fried rice balls filled with savoury meat or cheese, and its pasta alla Norma. These dishes highlight the abundance of fresh, locally-sourced ingredients that Sicily offers.
The charming region of Tuscany in central Italy offers a delightful mix of country-style and elegant food. Tuscan cuisine embodies Florentine steak, a perfectly grilled, thick T-bone steak, and ribollita, a wholesome vegetable and bread soup. Moving towards Emilia-Romagna, one can savour the origin of much-loved dishes such as lasagna, tagliatelle al ragù, and Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, which exhibit the region's commitment to quality ingredients and artful preparation.
The country's commitment to preserving culinary traditions, combined with its emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients, undoubtedly places Italy among the best countries in the world for gastronomic delights.
Thailand
With its vibrant culinary scene, Thailand offers a rich tapestry of flavours, spices, and culinary techniques that tantalise the taste buds of locals and visitors alike.
One of the reasons Thailand stands out as a food lover's paradise is its exceptional diversity. The country's regional dishes showcase a wide array of flavours and ingredients, each with its own unique twist. From the fiery dishes of the northeast region to the aromatic curries of the south, there is something to suit every palate.
Bangkok, the capital city, is a food haven. The bustling streets are lined with food stalls and restaurants offering iconic Thai dishes. Pad Thai, a stir-fried noodle dish with a perfect balance of sweet, sour, and savoury flavours, and Tom Yum Goong, a spicy and tangy soup with shrimp, lemongrass, and lime, are just a few mouth-watering options.
If you find yourself in the north of Thailand Chiang Mai boasts its own culinary delights. Khao Soi, a rich and creamy curry noodle soup, is a must-try dish that showcases the region's distinct flavours. Sai Oua, a flavorful northern Thai sausage made with aromatic herbs and spices, is another local speciality that will satisfy any meat lover's cravings.
In the coastal regions of the south, seafood lovers are in for a treat with a variety of fresh seafood dishes. Green Curry is a popular dish made with coconut milk, green chillies, and fragrant herbs, while Gaeng Som Pla is a tangy fish curry that reflects the influence of neighbouring countries like Malaysia.
Whether you're exploring the street food stalls, dining in high-end restaurants, or participating in a cooking class, Thailand's cuisine is an adventure for the senses!
Spain
Spain has a well-deserved reputation for having exceptional cuisine that combines diverse ingredients, rich flavours, and centuries-old culinary traditions. One of the reasons Spain stands out is its abundance of Michelin-star restaurants. These establishments showcase the country's culinary prowess and are synonymous with exceptional dining experiences. Some of the most renowned Michelin-star restaurants in Spain include El Celler de Can Roca in Girona, which has been named the world's best restaurant multiple times, and Arzak in San Sebastian, known for its innovative Basque cuisine.
Spain's regional dishes offer a fascinating tapestry of flavours and ingredients. Catalonia’s culinary heritage dates back to medieval times. Locally sourced, seasonal ingredients are emphasised, showcasing the diverse Catalan landscapes. Famous dishes include escudella i carn d’olla and escalivada. Paella is Valencia’s contribution to global gastronomy, made from rice, vegetables from their farming region, l'Horta, and chicken and rabbit.
In Andalusia, gazpacho, a refreshing cold tomato soup, is a firm favourite! Jamón ibérico, Spain's famous cured ham, hails from regions like Extremadura and Andalusia.
Tapas culture is also deeply rooted in Spain, offering an opportunity to sample a wide variety of small plates, ranging from patatas bravas (fried potatoes with spicy sauce) to gambas al ajillo (garlic shrimp).
Peru
Peru has gained worldwide recognition for its outstanding culinary scene, solidifying its position as one of the top countries for excellent cuisine. Its unique gastronomy is the result of the country's varied geography, cultural heritage, and abundance of ingredients.
The cuisine of Peru boasts a diverse range of regional flavours and traditions. Along the coast, ceviche is a beloved dish made with fresh raw fish or seafood marinated in citrus juices, accompanied by onions, chilli peppers, and cilantro. Another coastal speciality is causa limeña, a layered potato dish filled with chicken, tuna, or shellfish.
Moving inland to the highlands, heartier dishes like lomo saltado dominate the culinary landscape. This stir-fry of beef, onions, tomatoes, and French fries is a staple, alongside a spicy stuffed pepper dish, rocoto relleno. In the Andean region, guinea pig is considered a delicacy.In the Amazonian jungle, unique ingredients such as exotic fruits, fish, and herbs take centre stage. Tacacho con cecina, a dish made from mashed green plantains, is a favourite among locals and visitors alike, often served with grilled pork.
In Peru, there are a number of Michelin-starred restaurants that showcase the country's culinary expertise. One such renowned establishment is Central, located in Lima and overseen by Chef Virgilio Martínez. This restaurant is known for its innovative and artistic dishes celebrating Peru's biodiversity. Maido, led by Chef Mitsuharu Tsumura, is another exceptional eatery that combines Japanese and Peruvian flavours to create a fusion of culinary excellence. Finally, Astrid y Gastón, guided by Chef Gastón Acurio, offers a one-of-a-kind dining experience that presents traditional Peruvian dishes with a contemporary twist.
Peru has gained a prominent position as a global food destination due to its dedication to preserving its culinary heritage while embracing innovation.
