For food lovers, travel isn’t just about sightseeing—it’s also about tasting, savoring, and indulging in flavors that tell the story of a place. While cities like Paris, Tokyo, and Rome have long been at the forefront of global culinary tourism, there’s a new wave of emerging foodie destinations across the world. These up and coming places offer unique flavors, farm-to-table experiences, and vibrant street food scenes that are waiting to be explored – By you!
Whether you dream of sipping wine in an intimate vineyard, trying street food that locals swear by, or learning to cook a regional specialty, these are foodie destinations you should visit – So put these on your list for 2025!
1. Oaxaca, Mexico – The Heart of Authentic Mexican Cuisine
While Mexico City often gets the spotlight for its diverse food scene, Oaxaca is where Mexico’s most authentic and rich flavors truly shine. This southern Mexican city is known for its deep culinary traditions, vibrant markets, and legendary moles.
Must-Try Dishes in Oaxaca:
- Mole Negro – A rich, velvety sauce made from over 30 ingredients, including chocolate, chilies, and spices, served over meats or tamales.
- Tlayudas – Often called “Oaxacan pizza,” this dish consists of a large, crispy tortilla topped with refried beans, cheese, avocado, and meats.
- Chapulines (Grasshoppers) – A crunchy, protein-packed snack that’s seasoned with chili, lime, and salt.
- Mezcal – The smoky, complex cousin of tequila that originates in Oaxaca. Visit a traditional mezcaleria for a tasting experience.
For a true food immersion, visit the Mercado 20 de Noviembre, a bustling market filled with local vendors selling everything from grilled meats to homemade chocolate.
2. San Sebastián, Spain – The Ultimate Pintxos Destination
Nestled in Spain’s Basque Country, San Sebastián is a dream destination for food lovers, known for its high concentration of Michelin-starred restaurants and legendary pintxos bars.
Must-Try Dishes in San Sebastián:
- Pintxos – Small, flavorful tapas served on slices of bread and topped with everything from jamón ibérico to fresh seafood.
- Txuleta – A Basque-style aged steak, typically grilled over an open flame.
- Bacalao a la Vizcaína – Salted cod in a rich tomato and red pepper sauce.
- Txakoli Wine – A slightly sparkling, dry white wine that pairs perfectly with seafood.
To experience the best of San Sebastián, take a pintxos crawl through the Old Town, stopping at bars like Bar Néstor (famous for its steak and tortilla) and La Cuchara de San Telmo for creative, modern twists on Basque cuisine.
3. Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam – Southeast Asia’s Street Food Capital
Vietnamese cuisine is beloved worldwide, but while most travelers head to Hanoi for pho, Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon) offers an even more diverse street food scene.
Must-Try Dishes in Ho Chi Minh City:
- Bánh Mì – A crispy baguette stuffed with meats, pâté, pickled vegetables, and spicy mayo.
- Bún Thịt Nướng – A refreshing noodle dish with grilled pork, fresh herbs, and a sweet-savory fish sauce dressing.
- Cà Phê Sữa Đá – Vietnamese iced coffee with sweetened condensed milk, strong enough to keep you energized for a full day of exploring.
- Ốc (Sea Snails) – A beloved local delicacy that comes in different preparations, from stir-fried in garlic butter to grilled with lemongrass.
For the best experience, take a motorbike street food tour and eat your way through districts filled with tiny plastic chairs and sizzling woks.
4. Lisbon, Portugal – A Seafood and Pastry Paradise
Lisbon is quickly becoming Europe’s favorite foodie city, with its mix of traditional flavors and modern culinary innovation.
Must-Try Dishes in Lisbon:
- Bacalhau à Brás – A creamy, flavorful dish made with shredded salted cod, eggs, and crispy potatoes.
- Sardinhas Assadas – Grilled sardines, a staple of summer festivals.
- Pastél de Nata – Portugal’s famous egg custard tarts, best enjoyed fresh from Pastéis de Belém.
- Ginjinha – A sour cherry liqueur served in tiny glasses (or chocolate cups for an extra treat).
For a hands-on experience, take a Portuguese cooking class to learn how to make these traditional dishes yourself.
5. Marrakech, Morocco – A Feast for the Senses
Moroccan cuisine is all about bold spices, slow-cooked dishes, and communal dining. Marrakech’s bustling souks and rooftop restaurants offer an incredible variety of flavors.
Must-Try Dishes in Marrakech:
- Tagine – A slow-cooked stew with meat, vegetables, and aromatic spices, served in a traditional clay pot.
- Couscous – The national dish of Morocco, often served with vegetables and lamb.
- Pastilla – A unique savory-sweet pastry filled with spiced meat and dusted with cinnamon and powdered sugar.
- Mint Tea – No visit to Morocco is complete without sipping on the country’s signature sweet mint tea.
To dive deeper into Moroccan cuisine, book a food tour that includes a visit to a local spice market.
6. Cartagena, Colombia – Where Caribbean and Latin Flavors Collide
Colombia’s culinary scene is booming, and Cartagena is at the heart of it with its mix of Afro-Caribbean and Spanish influences.
Must-Try Dishes in Cartagena:
- Arepas de Huevo – Corn cakes stuffed with eggs and fried to golden perfection.
- Ceviche Cartagenero – Fresh seafood marinated in lime juice and coconut milk.
- Posta Negra – A sweet-and-savory slow-cooked beef dish with panela (unrefined cane sugar) and spices.
- Limonada de Coco – A refreshing coconut limeade, perfect for Cartagena’s hot weather.
The city’s Getsemaní neighborhood is the best place to try authentic street food while enjoying vibrant street art.
7. Bangkok, Thailand – The Ultimate Foodie Playground
Bangkok remains one of the most exciting food cities in the world, offering everything from Michelin-starred street vendors to high-end dining experiences.
Must-Try Dishes in Bangkok:
- Pad Thai – Thailand’s famous stir-fried noodle dish with tamarind sauce and crushed peanuts.
- Som Tam (Papaya Salad) – A refreshing, spicy salad made with green papaya, lime, and fish sauce.
- Khao Soi – A Northern Thai curry noodle soup with crispy and soft noodles.
- Mango Sticky Rice – A simple yet irresistible dessert made with coconut-infused sticky rice and fresh mango.
For a true Bangkok food adventure, visit the bustling night markets like Ratchada Train Market or take a street food tour led by a local guide.
Ready to Eat Your Way Through These Emerging Foodie Destinations?
Food is one of the best ways to experience a destination, and these emerging foodie destinations offer something for every palate. Whether you’re craving bold spices, fresh seafood, traditional comfort food, or something completely unique, these cities provide unforgettable culinary journeys.
Planning your next adventure? Let us help you craft a unique travel experience that indulges your taste buds and satisfies your wanderlust! Whether you’re interested in food culture, historical culture, or anything else in between, Contact us today to start planning your dream vacation.
