You’ve heard of all the stereotypical destinations for food lovers: Paris has the best croissants. New York has the best slice of pizza. But when you really want to take a deep dive into some of the world’s best food, where should you go? Chef and content creator Mo Abedin lists five cities around the globe that will awaken your inner gourmet. Foodies, get ready to pack your bags!
Ŝibenik, Croatia
Calling all lovers of fish! This coastal Mediterranean town prides itself on its seafood. Steps from the water, you can enjoy freshly caught octopus, monkfish, and more. Since it’s so fresh, local chefs put the seafood’s natural flavor on display with simple and delicious dishes. Abedin guarantees that you’ll enjoy it alongside a pour of the region’s olive oil. For dessert, try some fresh prŝunate. According to Abedin, these sweet doughy pastries are like doughnuts, only better!
Osaka, Japan
A lot of people recommend Tokyo to food lovers. But Abedin says that Osaka is a veritable playground for those looking to tingle their tastebuds. According to Abedin, Osaka is home to some of the best Takoyaki he has ever tasted. A ball-shaped savory pastry typically filled with octopus, ginger, and green onion, Takoyaki is worth the trip all on its own. If you are the type of person who takes more photos of your food than you do of yourself, book your flight to Osaka now.
Bangkok, Thailand
You cannot go wrong with Bangkok, it has something for everyone. Just take a walk through the city’s bustling, lively streets and you’re bound to find something you love cooked by some of the most passionate chefs and cooks in Asia. You can eat a 60-year-old beef broth noodle (seriously!), super fresh jumbo seafood on the grill, and some of the most exotic fruits in the world. Bangkok is a paradise for foodies all over.
Dubai, UAE
Dubai is a bustling city in the United Arab Emirates. Home to many exciting attractions, Dubai also has a diverse culinary scene. Abedin lives in Dubai and recommends that all food lovers check out some of the country’s delicious sweet treats. At breakfast time, the chebab is like a cheese and date-syrup filled pancake, served warm so that the flavors meld together on your tongue. Abedin says you also must try locally-made knafeh, a sugary pastry that is incredibly popular during Ramadan.
Manila, Philippines
You can’t talk about food without bringing up Manila! Almost the entire population is food-obsessed and for several great reasons, but what Abedin loves the most is the BBQ variety, especially the Inasal. Sweet and savory charcoal-grilled chicken served with rice, shredded pickled papaya, and fresh calamansi. It’s a street food that is widely available across the Philippines but it’s soul and comfort food to him.
There is mind-blowing food all over the globe. But according to Abedin, you have to know where to look. Next time you’re booking a vacation, Abedin says these five places should be at the top of your list.
