We are not going to judge you even for a second if you are one of those whose trip starts from a food table. Over the year, people have been shaping their itineraries around their food choices and the options they prefer at the dining table. From street vendors to food carts to Michelin-starred restaurants, food has become a driving force behind where people wish to visit next. Considering this factor, here we have a meticulously designed “our” list of the “best destinations for foodies in the world” where you can visit in 2026. So let’s take a look at the best destinations for foodies in 2026
Best Destinations for Foodies in 2026
Dubai, UAE
Dubai is a true foodie’s paradise with over 13,000 restaurants and cafes, which include 19 Michelin-starred dining places. From Emirati slow-cooked machboos to Iranian kebabs, Indian chaat, Filipino bakeries, and Michelin-starred tasting menus before dessert, there is a vast range of options in dining places and cuisines.
Global chefs experiment boldly here, while humble cafeterias serve legendary shawarma at midnight. Luxury brunches, desert dining, and buzzing food halls coexist with family-run gems. In Dubai, food isn’t just fuel or fashion; it’s culture, community, and constant discovery. Every meal feels like travel, surprise, and storytelling, seasoned by ambition, migration, and generosity, shared daily everywhere.
Dishes to Savour | What to Expect | Places to Enjoy it |
Machboos | Spiced meat and rice |
|
Mutton Kebabs | Tender, yoghurt-marinated Persian skewers |
|
Luqaimat | Deep-fried dough balls with date syrup |
|
Chicken Tikka | Spicy, charcoal-grilled classic |
|
Black Cod Miso | The world-famous buttery Japanese staple |
|
Kunafa | Sweet, cheese-filled pastry soaked in syrup |
|
Bangkok, Thailand
Bangkok is a paradise for food lovers because it delivers extraordinary flavour at every level, from world-famous street stalls to award-winning fine dining. The city’s streets buzz with sizzling woks, fragrant curries, spicy som tam, and perfectly balanced bowls of noodles that cost just a few coins yet rival gourmet meals. At the same time, innovative chefs reinterpret Thai cuisine in elegant restaurants, earning global acclaim. Bangkok’s food culture is deeply rooted, fiercely fresh, and endlessly exciting, making every meal an adventure shaped by tradition, creativity, and bold taste.
Dishes to Savour | What to Expect | Places to Enjoy it |
Pad Thai | Stir-fried rice noodles with tamarind, shrimp, and sprouts |
|
Tom Yum Goong | A fiery, fragrant, hot, and sour shrimp soup |
|
Som Tum | Spicy shredded green papaya salad with lime and chilli |
|
Pad Kra Pao | Holy basil stir-fry with minced meat and a fried egg |
|
Mango Sticky Rice | Sweet glutinous rice served with ripe mango and coconut cream |
|
Boat Noodles | Richly spiced noodle soup originally sold from canal boats |
|
Tokyo, Japan
Renowned for its obsessive attention to detail and respect for culinary tradition, this city stands as a true paradise for food lovers. With more Michelin-starred restaurants than anywhere else in the world, it offers exceptional dining across every price range, from elegant kaiseki meals to casual ramen counters and bustling izakayas. Seasonality and craftsmanship guide every dish, ensuring freshness and balance in flavour. From expertly prepared sushi sourced from Toyosu Market to inventive modern Japanese cuisine and refined international fare, the city transforms dining into a cultural ritual, where passion, precision, and quality elevate every meal into an unforgettable experience.
Dishes to Savour | What to Expect | Places to Enjoy it |
Edomae Sushi | Fresh, vinegared rice topped with high-quality seasonal fish |
|
Tonkotsu Ramen | Creamy, rich pork bone broth with thin wheat noodles |
|
Wagyu Teppanyaki | Premium marbled beef seared on a hot iron griddle |
|
Tempura | Lightly battered and deep-fried seafood and vegetables |
|
Yakitori | Skewered chicken grilled over binchotan charcoal |
|
Tonkatsu | Thick, breaded, and deep-fried pork cutlet |
|
San Sebastian, Spain
Celebrated for its unwavering devotion to gastronomy, this seaside city has built its identity around the joy of eating well. Food here is not just sustenance but a way of life, shaped by generations of chefs, fishermen, and farmers who value quality above all else. Its legendary pintxos culture invites diners to hop from bar to bar, sampling creative bites crafted with precision and flair. Beyond casual dining, world-renowned restaurants push culinary boundaries while honouring local traditions. With pristine seafood, seasonal produce, and a community that treats every meal as an event, the city delivers an unmatched experience for anyone passionate about food.
Dishes to Savour | What to Expect | Places to Enjoy it |
Gilda | The original pintxo, a skewer of olive, anchovy, and spicy guindilla pepper |
|
Basque Cheesecake | Crustless, burnt cheesecake with a creamy, molten centre |
|
Chuletón | Massive, thick-cut aged beef rib steak grilled over charcoal |
|
Kokotxas | Gelatinous, tender fish throats (usually hake) in salsa verde or pil-pil |
|
Gambas a la Plancha | Fresh local prawns seared on a hot griddle with garlic and sea salt |
|
Risotto de Idiazabal | Creamy risotto made with the local smoky Basque sheep’s cheese |
|
Rome, Italy
Few cities celebrate food with the passion, history, and simplicity found here, making it a true paradise for food lovers. Every dish is deeply rooted in tradition, from perfectly al dente pasta to slow-cooked sauces passed down through generations. Classic recipes like carbonara, cacio e pepe, and amatriciana rely on humble ingredients yet deliver unforgettable flavour. Local markets overflow with fresh produce, cheeses, and cured meats, while neighbourhood trattorias and family-run osterias preserve authentic Roman cooking. Paired with excellent wines, artisanal gelato, and a culture that values long, leisurely meals, the city turns eating into an art form and a way of life.
Dishes to Savour | What to Expect | Places to Enjoy it |
Carbonara | Eggs, pecorino Romano, guanciale (pork cheek), and black pepper |
|
Cacio e Pepe | Pasta, pecorino Romano cheese, and toasted black pepper |
|
Amatriciana | Tomato-based pasta sauce enriched with crispy guanciale, sharp pecorino, and a hint of chilli |
|
Carciofi alla Giudia | Artichokes, deep-fried golden, crispy sunflowers |
|
Supplì | Fried rice croquettes with a centre of molten mozzarella |
|
Coda alla Vaccinara | slow-cooked oxtail stew with celery, tomatoes, and cocoa powder |
|
Lyon, France
This French city has earned its title as the Gastronomic Capital of the World through centuries of passion for food. Its legendary bouchons serve comforting classics like quenelles, coq au vin, and praline desserts, preserving recipes passed down through generations. At the same time, innovative chefs elevate local produce with modern techniques, creating a dynamic balance between tradition and creativity. Bustling food markets, artisanal cheeses, exceptional wines from nearby regions, and a culture that celebrates leisurely, soulful dining make Lyon a true paradise for food lovers seeking authenticity, excellence, and unforgettable flavour experiences.
Dishes to Savour | What to Expect | Places to Enjoy it |
Quenelle de Brochet | Light dumpling of creamed pike fish with creamy Nantua (crayfish) sauce |
|
Saucisson Brioché | Garlic sausage (cervelas) baked inside a warm loaf of golden brioche |
|
Salade Lyonnaise | Frisée greens topped with hot, crispy lardons (bacon), crunchy croutons, and a poached egg |
|
Tablier de Sapeur | Breaded and fried tripe marinated in white wine |
|
Cervelle de Canut | Fresh, herbed cheese dip made with fromage blanc, garlic, shallots, and olive oil. |
|
Tarte aux Pralines | Vibrant pink dessert tart with crushed almonds coated in cooked pink sugar |
|
Melbourne, Australia
Melbourne is a paradise for food lovers because of its deep-rooted food culture, creative spirit, and love for quality ingredients. The city is famous for its world-class coffee scene, multicultural neighbourhoods, and chefs who aren’t afraid to experiment. From Italian trattorias and Greek taverns to cutting-edge modern Australian cuisine and buzzing food markets, Melbourne offers something for every palate. Hidden laneway cafés, seasonal menus, and a strong farm-to-table philosophy add to its charm, making dining feel personal, exciting, and endlessly rewarding for locals and travellers alike.
Dishes to Savour | What to Expect | Places to Enjoy it |
Avocado Toast | Served with feta, dukkah, and heirloom tomatoes |
|
Lamb Souvlaki | Charcoal-grilled lamb in fluffy pita |
|
Chicken Parmigiana | Parma breaded schnitzel topped with tomato sauce, ham, and melted cheese. |
|
Xiao Long Bao | Savoury soup dumplings |
|
Dim Sim | Large, meaty dumpling (fried or steamed) |
|
Flat White | Velvety micro-foam over a double ristretto |
|
Boston, USA
Boston captivates food lovers with a culinary identity that feels both timeless and refreshingly modern. Rooted in New England heritage, the city celebrates ocean-fresh seafood, iconic chowders, and beloved comfort dishes that have been perfected over generations.
At the same time, Boston’s vibrant neighbourhoods and university-driven energy fuel innovation, bringing global cuisines, creative chefs, and contemporary dining concepts to the forefront. From historic taverns and family-run eateries to stylish restaurants and lively food markets, Boston delivers a balanced and rewarding food scene that invites visitors to explore, taste, and return for more.
Dishes to Savour | What to Expect | Places to Enjoy it |
Lobster Roll | Fresh Atlantic lobster meat served either “Maine-style” (cold with mayo) |
|
New England Clam Chowder | Thick, creamy soup with fresh clams, potatoes, and salt pork |
|
Roast Beef Sandwich | Thinly sliced, rare roast beef on an onion roll |
|
Cannoli | Crispy pastry shells filled with sweet ricotta cream |
|
Boston Cream Pie | Two layers of sponge filled with pastry cream |
|
Fish and Chips | Flaky, beer-battered local cod or haddock served with thick-cut fries |
|
London, UK
London is a great place for foodies because it offers unmatched diversity, quality, and constant culinary reinvention. The city is a global crossroads, meaning you can enjoy authentic Indian curries, Middle Eastern mezze, Italian pasta, Chinese dim sum, African stews, and classic British fare all within a few streets. London also excels in innovation, with Michelin-starred restaurants, experimental kitchens, and modern takes on traditional dishes. Add to that its buzzing street-food markets, historic pubs, artisan bakeries, and world-class food festivals, and London becomes a destination where every appetite is celebrated.
Dishes to Savour | What to Expect | Places to Enjoy it |
Fish and Chips | Flaky cod or haddock in crisp batter with mushy peas and malt vinegar |
|
Chicken Tikka Masala | Charred chicken in a creamy, spiced tomato sauce |
|
Sunday Roast | Roasted meat (usually beef) with Yorkshire pudding, roast potatoes, and lashings of gravy. |
|
Beef Wellington | Tender fillet steak coated in pâté and mushroom duxelles |
|
Pie and Mash | Served with savoury parsley sauce |
|
Scotch Egg | Soft-boiled egg wrapped in sausage meat, breaded, and fried |
|
Mexico City, Mexico
Mexico City is a dream destination for foodies because it offers an unmatched mix of history, flavour, and creativity. The city is the heart of Mexican cuisine, where centuries-old traditions meet bold modern innovation. From world-famous street food like tacos al pastor, tamales, and tlacoyos to refined tasting menus at globally ranked restaurants, every level of dining shines. Local markets overflow with fresh produce, chillies, and spices, while regional dishes from across Mexico are represented in one place. Affordable prices, passionate cooks, and nonstop culinary energy make Mexico City endlessly exciting for food lovers.
Dishes to Savour | What to Expect | Places to Enjoy it |
Tacos al Pastor | Marinated pork roasted on a vertical spit (trompo), served with pineapple, onion, and cilantro |
|
Chilaquiles | Lightly fried tortillas simmered in red or green salsa, topped with cream, cheese, and eggs or chicken |
|
Mole Poblano | Thick, complex sauce featuring chillies, chocolate, and dozens of spices |
|
Barbacoa | Succulent lamb slow-cooked in an underground pit until tender |
|
Esquites | Toasted corn kernels sautéed with epazote and served in a cup with lime, mayo, chilli, and cheese |
|
Churros | Golden fried dough sticks dusted in cinnamon sugar |
|
Graz, Austria
Graz charms food lovers with a culinary scene that feels deeply rooted, generous, and quietly sophisticated. Wrapped in the lush Styrian countryside, the city draws its flavour from nearby farms, vineyards, and orchards, resulting in dishes that taste fresh, honest, and seasonally inspired. Graz effortlessly blends rustic taverns, lively markets, and refined restaurants, earning its reputation as Austria’s culinary heart. Signature ingredients like pumpkin seed oil, local wines, and handcrafted cheeses appear everywhere, each telling a story of place. For foodies, Graz is not loud or flashy; it is expressive, soulful, and endlessly satisfying.
Dishes to Savour | What to Expect | Places to Enjoy it |
Styrian Fried Chicken | Crispy, breaded chicken pieces served with a lemon wedge |
|
Pumpkin Seed Oil Salad | Mixed greens or potato salad with thick, nutty, dark green Styrian pumpkin seed oil |
|
Tafelspitz | Slow-boiled beef served with minced apples and horseradish |
|
Käferbohnensalat | Salad of Beetle Beans, onions, and plenty of pumpkin seed oil |
|
Styrian Tapas | Smoked trout or local mountain cheeses. |
|
Grazer Krauthäuptel | Local lettuce variety known for its crispiness and sweet, nutty flavour |
|
Toronto, Canada
Toronto offers food lovers practical advantages that make dining easy and rewarding. The city has excellent public transit, allowing visitors to reach diverse food neighbourhoods like Kensington Market, Chinatown, and Little Italy without a car. Seasonal food festivals, year-round farmers’ markets, and late-night dining options ensure constant access to fresh and global flavours. Prices range from affordable street eats to high-end tasting menus, suiting every budget. Clear food labelling, multicultural staff, and widespread dietary options make Toronto welcoming for vegetarian, halal, kosher, and allergy-conscious travellers from around the world.
Dishes to Savour | What to Expect | Places to Enjoy it |
Peameal Bacon Sandwich | Lean cornmeal-crusted back bacon on a soft kaiser roll |
|
Sushi Pizza | Fried rice patty topped with salmon, tuna, or crab, spicy mayo, and soy |
|
East Coast Donair | Spicy shaved beef with a sweet garlic sauce |
|
Jerk Chicken | Smoky, spicy, and authentic meat |
|
Mother’s Dumplings | Handmade Northern Chinese dumplings |
|
Poutine | Butter chicken with brisket |
|
Bengaluru, India
Bengaluru delights food lovers with its rich local staples and endlessly comforting flavours. The city is famous for crisp dosas, fluffy idlis, vadas, and steaming plates of bisibele bath, all best enjoyed with fresh coconut chutney and aromatic sambar. Traditional darshinis serve quick, affordable meals, while local eateries showcase regional Karnataka dishes like ragi mudde, neer dosa, and Mangalorean seafood. Filter coffee culture runs deep, and vibrant street food, from masala puri to dosa carts, adds to Bengaluru’s everyday, deeply satisfying food experience.
Dishes to Savour | What to Expect | Places to Enjoy it |
Benne Masala Dosa | Thick golden dosa roasted with a generous amount of local butter |
|
Donne Biryani | Green-hued biryani made with jeera samba rice |
|
Rava Idli | Steamed semolina cakes tempered with mustard seeds, curry leaves, and ghee |
|
Filter Coffee | Strong, frothy coffee made with a traditional chicory blend |
|
Pandi Curry | Spicy and tangy pork curry made with Kachampuli |
|
Porto, Portugal
For travellers, Porto delivers a food experience that feels intimate, comforting, and closely connected to the city’s soul. Walking through its historic streets leads to small, welcoming eateries serving local staples like the famous francesinha, alongside seafood fresh from the Atlantic. Grilled sardines, tender octopus, and classic salt-cod dishes appear on menus throughout the city, especially near the river. Traditional bakeries draw visitors in with warm pastries, while nearby wine cellars encourage lingering moments over glasses of port wine and the slow rhythm of Porto life.
Dishes to Savour | What to Expect | Places to Enjoy it |
Francesinha | Sandwich layered with steak, ham, and sausage, covered in melted cheese and a spicy beer-tomato sauce |
|
Tripas à Moda do Porto | Tripe stew with white beans, smoked meats, and carrots |
|
Bacalhau à Gomes de Sá | Casserole of salt cod, onions, potatoes, boiled eggs, and olives |
|
Sandes de Pernil | Pork leg sandwich served with gooey mountain cheese |
|
Bolinhos de Bacalhau | Golden, oval-shaped salt cod fritters |
|
Arroz de Marisco | Soupy rice packed with prawns, clams, and monkfish |
|
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur feels like a nonstop culinary adventure shaped by its rich mix of Malay, Chinese, and Indian cultures. The city’s streets come alive with sizzling hawker stalls serving nasi lemak, char kway teow, satay, and roti canai at any hour of the day. Food courts and night markets make tasting local favourites easy and affordable, while modern cafés and upscale restaurants add creative twists to classic dishes. From casual roadside meals to refined dining experiences, eating in Kuala Lumpur becomes an essential part of exploring the city itself.
Dishes to Savour | What to Expect | Places to Enjoy it |
Nasi Lemak | Coconut rice served with spicy sambal, crispy anchovies, peanuts, cucumber & hard-boiled egg |
|
Char Kway Teow | Wok-fried wide rice noodles tossed with dark soy sauce, cockles, prawns, egg, and bean sprouts |
|
Roti Canai | Flaky, light, yet filling Indian-style flatbread |
|
Hokkien Mee | Thick, dark soy sauce-coated noodles fried with pork, squid, and cabbage |
|
Beef Rendang | Slow-cooked Malay beef stew with spiced, curry-like sauce |
|
Satay | Skewered and charcoal-grilled marinated meats with a sweet and spicy peanut dipping sauce |
|
Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen presents a food scene shaped by simplicity, seasonality, and thoughtful craftsmanship. Traditional Danish dishes like smørrebrød showcase fresh bread, seafood, and local produce, while cosy bakeries tempt visitors with flaky pastries and sourdough breads. The city’s commitment to sustainability shines through farmers’ markets, organic ingredients, and innovative kitchens that transform Nordic flavours into memorable meals. From casual waterfront cafés to world-renowned restaurants, dining in Copenhagen encourages travellers to slow down, appreciate quality ingredients, and experience how modern Nordic cuisine has influenced the global food world.
Dishes to Savour | What to Expect | Places to Enjoy it |
Smørrebrød | Open-faced sandwiches on dense rye bread, topped with pickled herring or roast beef |
|
Flæskestegssandwich | roast pork sandwich featuring crackling skin, red cabbage, and pickles in a soft bun |
|
Stegt Flæsk | Crispy pork belly served with boiled potatoes and a creamy parsley sauce |
|
Wienerbrød | Multi-layered, laminated dough that is incredibly flaky and buttery |
|
Rød Pølse | Red hot dog with remoulade and fried onions |
|
New Nordic Small Plates | Fermented vegetables, seafood, and foraged herbs |
|
Boise, Idaho
Boise delivers a surprisingly warm and grounded food experience shaped by local pride and seasonal ingredients. The city’s dining scene highlights farm-fresh produce, Idaho potatoes prepared in creative ways, and meats sourced from nearby ranches. Visitors can enjoy relaxed restaurants, vibrant farmers’ markets, and food trucks that showcase regional flavours with a modern touch. Local bakeries, craft breweries, and wineries add to the experience, creating a food culture that feels welcoming, unpretentious, and deeply connected to the surrounding landscape.
Dishes to Savour | What to Expect | Places to Enjoy it |
Finger Steaks | Bite-sized strips of steak, battered and deep-fried |
|
Basque Croquetas | Creamy, fried bechamel rolls filled with cod or ham |
|
Idaho Ice Cream Potato | Vanilla ice cream shaped like a potato, dusted in cocoa, and topped with sour cream |
|
Paella | Saffron rice, seafood, and meat |
|
Huckleberry Pie | Wild, tart mountain berries |
|
Bison Burger | Lean, flavorful regional game meat sourced from local ranches |
|
Conclusion
As 2026 invites travellers to explore the world with fresh curiosity, food continues to be one of the most meaningful ways to connect with a destination. From iconic culinary capitals to unexpected cities making bold moves in the kitchen, each place on this list proves that great travel is often remembered by taste. Local ingredients, cultural stories, and creative chefs come together to shape experiences that linger long after the journey ends. For food lovers, these destinations are more than places to visit; they are reasons to travel, savour, and keep exploring the world one unforgettable bite at a time.
No Comments on The Best Destinations for Foodies 2026