Every food lover has his or her own special bucket list - culinary countries that are must visits due to their amazing cuisine. For some, the number one country is easy to name. Here at NextTrip, we had a more difficult time creating our list. That's why we took a poll - and asked everyone at Travel Magazine, "what are your top 5 favorite countries to visit for food?"
Here are the results, in sequential order:
5. Vietnam
Vietnam is a blend of the west and east. The French influence on Vietnamese cuisine still remains strong, and you can taste it everywhere you turn. Take the delicious Bánh mì, for example. It's a product of the French colonialism in Vietnam, including a French baguette with an assortment of Vietnamese style meats. If you go, be sure to try the Pho in both Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. They're completely different.
4. Japan
We all know sushi and ramen are delicious. But it's the focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients that really makes Japanese cuisine delectable. Seafood is extremely common, both raw and grilled - and its quality is off the charts throughout the country. Noodles include soba and udon, both delicious in flavor and satisfying in texture. As of 2011, Japan has overtaken France for the number of Michelin-starred restaurants and has maintained the title ever since.
3. France
Despite having less Michelin-starred restaurants than Japan - France takes the three spot on our poll. It was the country to first invent the concept of the restaurant, so it should get extra points for that.
Each region of France is completely different style wise, making it one of the best countries to tour for cuisine. From the ratatouille in the Provence region to the seafood in Brittany, there's so much to eat and drink in France. Get ready for wine and cheese at nearly every single meal.
2. India
India is a much larger country than most people think - and like France, the cuisine varies from region to region. The mix of spices known as masala creates extremely flavorful food in all of their dishes - most of which are vegetarian in nature. Indians also cook with plenty of dairy - with milk, cream, and cheese being incorporated into many of the local favorites. If you have a sweet tooth, India can also provide you with some delicious options. The sweet-yogurt-like drink lassi, and the rasmali are must eats.
1. Italy
The land of pasta, bread, seafood and wine had to be number one on our list. It wasn't even close, to be honest. Italy has delicious food, drinks, desserts, appetizers, and snacks. The pizza, fresh meats and cheeses, olive oil, and local wines are all some of the best you'll ever taste. Any trip to Italy should account for a minimum of 10 pounds and one belt loop gained, otherwise, you're not doing it right.
Summary:
Every food lover has his or her own special bucket list - culinary countries that are must visits due to their amazing cuisine. For some, the number one country is easy to name. Here at NextTrip, we had a more difficult time creating our list. That's why we took a poll - and asked everyone at Travel Magazine, "what are your top 5 favorite countries to visit for food?"