Traveling the Globe? Here Are The Top 30 Favorite Foods You Must Try

Curious about what people around the world love to eat? From the well-loved Caesar Salad to exotic dishes like Som Tam, this guide covers a wide range of culinary delights. This guide introduces you to the top 30 favorite foods outside the USA, revealing unique flavors and dishes from different cultures that every food enthusiast must try. The versatility of mashed potato in various cuisines, such as its use in Indian masala dosa and Irish champ, showcases its role in enhancing flavors and texture.

Som Tam, Thailand

Som Tam offers a perfect balance of spicy, sweet, salty, and sour flavors. This vibrant green papaya salad is a staple in Thailand, combining:

• Shredded green papaya
• Thai chili
• Green beans
• Cherry tomatoes
• Dried baby shrimp
• Carrots
• Roasted peanuts

All doused in a tangy lime sauce. The name Som Tam translates to “pounded sour,” a nod to its traditional preparation method where ingredients are pounded in a mortar and pestle.

Whether you’re strolling through the bustling streets of Bangkok or relaxing on the serene beaches of Phuket, you’ll find that Som Tam varies slightly from region to region. Some versions might include palm sugar or fermented fish for an added twist. But no matter where you try it, this refreshing salad is sure to be a memorable taste explosion, making it a must-try on your Thai culinary adventure.

Chicken Rice, Singapore

In Singapore, Hainanese chicken rice is celebrated as a national icon, transcending its status as a mere meal. Originating from Hainan, China, this dish features poached chicken and seasoned rice served with a tangy chili sauce and cucumber garnishes. The chicken is poached and then dipped in ice water to give it a unique, jelly-like skin, while the rice is cooked with chicken fat, garlic, ginger, and pandan leaves for an aromatic flavor boost.

The distinguishing feature of this deviled eggs dish is the dipping sauce, a harmonious mix of:

• minced red chili
• garlic
• dark soy sauce
• freshly ground ginger

Variants of Hainanese chicken rice are popular across Southeast Asia, but Singapore’s version, with its meticulous preparation and flavorful accompaniments, stands out as a must-try for anyone visiting the city-state.

Poutine with Sour Cream, Canada

Poutine, the ultimate comfort food, has charmed not only Canadians but also food lovers around the world. This decadent dish consists of fresh-cut french fries topped with squeaky cheese curds and smothered in rich brown gravy. Originating in rural Québec snack bars in the late 1950s, poutine has since become a symbol of Québécois and Canadian cuisine, often enjoyed alongside potato chips.

Poutine has permeated all levels of dining settings, from gourmet restaurants to fast-food chains like McDonald’s, which started offering poutine in its Québec outlets in 1990. There are also numerous variations, including Italian poutine with spaghetti sauce and Irish poutine with lardons. No matter which version you try, this hearty dish is sure to provide a comforting, tasty experience.

Tacos, Mexico

Tacos, a versatile and cherished Mexican delicacy, encapsulate a spectrum of flavors within a single bite. Here are some popular types of tacos:

• Tacos Al Pastor: marinated pork cooked on a vertical spit with dried chilies and pineapple
• Barbacoa tacos: slow-cooked beef or lamb that delivers a unique smoky taste
• Carnitas tacos: pork slow-cooked in its own fat until tender and caramelized

There’s a taco for every palate.

When in Mexico City, don’t miss out on El Califa, celebrated for its wide variety of tacos. Whether you prefer the smoky flavors of Carne Asada tacos or the fresh taste of Pescado tacos from coastal regions, Mexican tacos promise a culinary adventure that’s both delicious and culturally enriching.

Buttered Toast with Marmite, UK

The quintessentially British snack of buttered toast with Marmite aptly represents the country’s unique culinary preferences, standing in contrast to the sweet breakfast favorite, french toast. This simple yet divisive treat combines the creamy texture of butter with the salty, umami-rich flavor of Marmite, made from yeast extract. Often enjoyed as a quick breakfast or a savory snack, Marmite on toast is known for being an acquired taste, with people either loving or hating it.

Spread thinly on a slice of hot, buttered toast, Marmite provides a savory punch that’s hard to forget. While enjoying your toast, you might also consider trying a snack like buttered popcorn for a different taste experience.

Stinky Tofu, Southeast Asia

Stinky tofu, despite its notorious odor often likened to rotten garbage or smelly feet, is a cherished street food in Southeast Asia. This fermented tofu dish is traditionally prepared by fermenting tofu in a brine made from fermented milk, vegetables, and meat for several months. Modern methods involve marinating fresh tofu in prepared brine for a shorter period, but the result is still the same: a pungent yet delicious delicacy.

Stinky tofu can be enjoyed in various forms, including:

• cold
• steamed
• stewed
• deep-fried

It is often served with chili sauce or soy sauce. It’s particularly popular in Taiwan, where it’s a staple at night markets. Despite its strong smell, the taste of stinky tofu is surprisingly mild and savory, making it a must-try for adventurous eaters.

Marzipan, Germany

Hailing from Germany, Marzipan is a delectable and addictive treat primarily made from sugar and ground almonds. This confection is often shaped into decorative figures such as fruits and animals, especially during festive seasons like Christmas. In Germany, marzipan is traditionally given in the shape of a loaf of bread or small potatoes during Christmas.

Lübeck, known for its high-quality marzipan, adheres to stringent standards, requiring the sweet treat to comprise two-thirds almonds by weight.

Chili Crab, Singapore

You simply can’t afford to miss Chili Crab, a cornerstone of Singaporean cuisine. This dish features live mud crabs cooked in a spicy and savory chili-tomato gravy, often thickened with egg. Invented in the 1950s by Cher Yam Tian and her husband, Chili Crab combines sweet, salty, and spicy flavors, enhanced by the addition of ingredients like belachan (dried shrimp paste) and ketchup.

The sauce is a delightful blend that strikes a perfect balance of heat and sweetness, often served with steamed or fried mantou buns to soak up every drop. The tomalley, or crab mustard, from inside the crab, adds a rich depth to the creamy sauce, making it a unique hot sauce experience.

Enjoying Chili Crab is a messy but utterly rewarding experience, one that embodies the vibrant and diverse culinary scene of Singapore.

Ankimo, Japan

Known as the “foie gras of the sea,” Ankimo is a highly esteemed monkfish liver delicacy in Japanese cuisine. This luxurious treat is typically served with grated daikon radish with chili, finely chopped Japanese bunching onion, and a citrus-based seasoning sauce called ponzu.

The preparation involves rubbing the liver with salt, rinsing it with sake, and cooking it in a cylinder made of aluminum foil. Traditionally a winter dish, Ankimo is enjoyed in high-class sushi restaurants year-round, offering a rich, buttery texture that seafood lovers will adore.

Parma Ham, Italy

Versatile and flavorful, Prosciutto di Parma, or Parma Ham, is an Italian cured ham made exclusively from the hind legs of select bred pigs. The curing process involves using high-quality Italian sea salt, air, and time, with the ham undergoing multiple stages that include salting, resting, and drying.

Aged for a minimum of 400 days, and sometimes up to three years, Parma Ham is known for its rich flavor and delicate texture. Each ham is inspected with a horse bone needle to ensure quality, and only those meeting the highest standards are branded with the Ducal Crown.

Goi Cuon (Summer Roll), Vietnam

Goi Cuon, or summer rolls, offer a refreshing and light Vietnamese dish, ideal for a hot day. These rice paper rolls are filled with:

• fresh vegetables
• herbs
• soft slices of pork
• shrimp

This combination of textures and flavors creates a delightful taste. The rice paper, known as bánh tráng, can be made from pure rice flour or a mixture with tapioca flour for added strength.

Goi Cuon is typically served with a dipping sauce made from hoisin sauce and peanut butter, adding a rich and savory contrast to the fresh ingredients. This dish is a fantastic example of Vietnamese cuisine’s focus on fresh flavors and balanced tastes, making it a must-try for anyone visiting Vietnam.

Ohmi-Gyu Beef Steak, Japan

Coming from Japan, Ohmi-Gyu beef steak is a luxurious delight, belonging to the highly prized kuroge wagyu category celebrated for its exceptional marbling and intense flavor. This A5-ranked beef is renowned for its fine grain and sumptuous texture, making it a favorite among steak lovers.

There are various ways to enjoy Ohmi-Gyu, including yakiniku, where thin strips of meat are grilled over a charcoal grill, and teppanyaki, where it is cooked on a flat iron griddle by skilled chefs. Each method highlights the beef’s rich flavor and tender texture, offering a truly indulgent dining experience.

Pho, Vietnam

Pho, Vietnam’s national dish, is a representative icon of Vietnamese culinary art. This flavorful noodle soup features a rich broth made from simmering beef leg or oxtail with onion, ginger, star anise, and various herbs and spices. The two main styles of Pho are Pho Bac (Northern) and the more vegetable-laden Southern style. Northern-style Pho is known for its minimal garnishing to emphasize the pure beef broth, while Southern-style Pho includes a variety of vegetables such as bean sprouts, mint leaves, Thai basil, and Thai chilies.

Variations of Pho include:

• Beef Pho
• Chicken Pho
• Seafood Pho
• Vegetarian Pho
• Pho saté

For an authentic experience, visit Pho 10 in Hanoi, celebrated for its traditional Hanoi-style Pho. Whether you enjoy it as a comforting breakfast or a hearty dinner, Pho is a culinary delight that captures the essence of Vietnamese flavors.

Lechón, Philippines

In the Philippines, Lechón is a festive dish celebrated for its tender, juicy meat and crispy skin. This roasted pig is especially popular in Cebu, where places like Paraz Native Lechon are famous for their traditional methods and use of native pigs.

The preparation involves stuffing the pig’s belly with sea salt, ginger, and green onions before roasting it over coals using bamboo skewers. The result is a flavorful and succulent dish that is a staple at Filipino celebrations and special occasions.

Fajitas with Hot Sauce, Mexico

Fajitas, a sizzling Mexican concoction, combine marinated meat and vegetables wrapped in a warm tortilla. Originating from the cattle ranches of West Texas and Northern Mexico, fajitas were initially made with skirt steak cooked over an open flame. Today, they can be made with:

• beef
• chicken
• pork
• shrimp
• vegetarian options like portobello mushrooms and tofu.

Typically served with warm tortillas, guacamole, sour cream, and salsa, fajitas allow for customizable flavor combinations. The marinated meat, often seasoned with lime juice, garlic, cumin, and chili powder, is grilled to perfection and paired with sautéed bell peppers and onions. This dish is not only delicious but also a fun and interactive meal that brings people together.

Butter Garlic Crab, India

Originating from the coastal regions of India, like Goa and Maharashtra, butter garlic crab is a richly flavored delicacy. This signature dish features:

• crab cooked in a buttery garlic sauce
• often enhanced with a bit of brown crab meat
• tamarind pulp
• ghati masala—a mixture of spices including onions, dry coconut, garlic, and various whole spices

The result is a dish that is both sweet and savory, with a complex flavor profile that seafood lovers will adore.

Typically, the crab is prepared in the following steps:

1. Marinate the crab with salt, turmeric, and lemon juice.
2. Fry the crab with onions and dry coconut paste.
3. Simmer the crab with tamarind and spices to achieve its rich, buttery flavor.

Butter garlic crab is a true testament to the culinary creativity and bold flavors of Indian cuisine, making it a must-try for anyone visiting the region.

Arepas, Venezuela

A staple of Venezuelan cuisine, arepas are notable for their crunchy exterior and soft, creamy interior. These cornmeal cakes are made from pre-cooked white cornmeal, also known as masa arepa, and are shaped into thick disks before cooking. To achieve the best texture, the dough should rest for 15-30 minutes before being cooked.

Arepas can be filled with a variety of ingredients, such as cheese, meats, or vegetables, making them a versatile and delicious option for any meal.

Bunny Chow, South Africa

Originating among Indian South Africans in Durban, bunny chow is a unique and savory dish. This dish consists of a hollowed-out loaf of white bread filled with curry, which can include mutton, lamb, chicken, or beans. The bread absorbs the gravy from the curry, enhancing its flavor, and the dish is commonly eaten using fingers.

Bunny chows are available in various sizes, from quarter to full loaves, and are often served with a side salad made of grated carrot, chili, and onion. This hearty and delicious meal is a must-try for anyone visiting Durban.

Pastel de Nata, Portugal

Known as Portuguese custard tarts, Pastel de nata is a delightful treat that dates back to the 18th century at the Jerónimos Monastery in Santa Maria de Belém. These tarts feature a flaky pastry crust filled with creamy custard and are often enjoyed with a sprinkle of cinnamon or powdered sugar.

The original recipe is still served at Pastéis de Belém, near the monastery, which claims to be the only place offering the authentic version. Pastel de nata has become popular worldwide, with notable versions like those from Lord Stow’s Bakery in Macau.

This delicious treat is a must-try for any sweet tooth visiting Portugal, as it is one of the many delicious foods the country has to offer.

Pierogi, Poland

Traditional Eastern European dumplings, Pierogi, can be filled with a medley of ingredients, including mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, and butter. The dough is made from flour, water, egg, and butter, creating a tender and pliable wrapper for the delicious fillings. Cheddar cheese is a common substitute for the traditional quark cheese used in pierogi fillings, adding a rich and creamy flavor.

These dumplings are typically boiled until they float to the surface, indicating they are cooked. They can also be sautéed in butter to add extra flavor and a crispy texture. Pierogi are often served with a butter and onion sauce, making them a comforting and satisfying dish that is perfect for any occasion.

Piri-Piri Chicken, Mozambique

Known as peri-peri or pili-pili chicken, Piri-piri chicken is a flavorful Mozambican dish that boasts a spicy sauce crafted from African birds-eye chilies, lemon juice, vinegar, and assorted spices. The chicken is marinated and grilled using the spatchcocking technique, which involves removing the backbone and flattening the chicken for even grilling.

The result is a juicy and flavorful chicken that is basted with the piri-piri sauce during cooking, creating a deliciously spicy and tangy meal.

Rendang, Indonesia

Originating from West Sumatra, Rendang is a richly flavored dish that has the honor of being one of Indonesia’s national dishes. This Minangkabau dish is made by slow-cooking meat (usually beef, lamb, or goat) in a mixture of:

• coconut milk
• chili
• ginger
• galangal
• turmeric
• lemongrass
• garlic
• shallots

The meat is braised for several hours until the liquids evaporate, and the meat turns dark brown, caramelizing and infusing with rich flavors.

Rendang is traditionally served during ceremonial occasions to honor guests in Minangkabau culture. In 2011, beef rendang was declared the most delicious dish in the world in a survey, cementing its status as a must-try culinary experience. The dish’s complex flavors and tender meat make it a standout in Indonesian cuisine.

Chicken Muamba, Gabon

Also known as Muamba de Galinha, chicken muamba is a flavorful stew from Gabon. It is made using:

• Chicken
• Garlic
• Chili
• Assorted vegetables
• Palm oil

The dish, offering delicious food, is traditionally prepared over open fires using locally sourced ingredients, giving it a distinctive and rich flavor.

Key ingredients for this stew include:

• Garlic
• Onions
• Okra
• Chili peppers

The chicken is often marinated in garlic, paprika, and salt before cooking. Palm oil or palm butter is used to give the stew its characteristic red color and rich taste.

Chicken Muamba is a hearty and flavorful dish that is sure to satisfy.

Tom Yum Goong, Thailand

Known for its bold and complex flavors, Tom Yum Goong is a popular Thai soup. The soup includes:

• Shrimp-based broth
• Lemongrass and kaffir lime leaves for flavor
• Straw mushrooms and whole shrimp for substance
• Thai chilis for heat
• Lime juice for a refreshing sourness.

The soup is garnished with cilantro, providing a fresh pop of flavor that balances the sour, spicy, and herbal notes perfectly. Enjoying a bowl of Tom Yum Goong is like savoring the essence of Thai cuisine in every spoonful.

Penang Assam Laksa, Malaysia

Originating from Malaysia, Penang Assam Laksa is a tangy and flavorful noodle soup that will tease your taste buds. This dish is typically made with local mackerel, though higher quality fish like horse mackerel, fresh sardine, or yellowtail kingfish can also be used. The broth is flavored with ingredients like:

• galangal
• lemongrass
• torch ginger flower
• Vietnamese mint
• tamarind pulp

These ingredients create a complex and aromatic profile.

The soup’s sourness comes from tamarind peel (asam keping) and fresh Vietnamese mint (laksa leaf), while a ground spice paste made from red chilies, dried shrimp paste (belacan), galangal, turmeric, and shallots adds depth and spice. Penang Assam Laksa is served with laksa noodles or thick rice noodles and is often accompanied by a spoonful of sweetened dark prawn paste (heh ko sauce) on the side. Garnishes typically include sliced cucumber, pineapple, onions, mint leaves, and chilies.

This dish is a must-try for anyone visiting Malaysia, offering a burst of flavors in every bite.

Peking Duck, China

Hailing from Beijing, Peking duck is famed for its thin, crispy skin and minimal meat. The duck is traditionally carved tableside by an expert, highlighting the dish’s presentation and adding to the dining experience. Peking duck is served in three stages:

1. First, the crispy skin is eaten with sugar and sweet bean sauce.
2. Then, the meat is served with pancakes, spring onion, cucumber, and sweet bean sauce.
3. The remaining parts of the duck can be used in a soup or stir-fry.

Notable spots for Peking duck in Beijing include Beijing Da Dong and Duck de Chine, celebrated for their quality and preparation methods. The dish’s rich history dates back to the 15th century, with the first restaurant specializing in Peking duck, Bianyifang, established in 1416. Whether you enjoy it at a high-end restaurant or a local eatery, Peking duck offers a taste of Chinese culinary tradition that is hard to beat.

Sushi, Japan

Especially in Tokyo, a must-try in Japan is sushi, where some of the world’s freshest and most delicious concoctions can be found. Tsukiji Outer Market is a notable spot for sushi, famous for its fresh produce and traditional Japanese eateries. Sushi comes in various forms, including nigiri (hand-pressed sushi), sashimi (sliced raw fish), and maki (rolled sushi), each offering a unique taste experience.

In Tokyo, places like Ginza Sushi Inada and Sushi Dai are celebrated for their high-quality sushi and fresh ingredients. Whether you prefer the delicate flavor of tuna sashimi or the rich taste of eel nigiri, sushi in Japan is a culinary experience that should not be missed. The meticulous preparation and emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients make Japanese sushi a standout in the world of cuisine.

Neapolitan Pizza, Italy

A must-try for any pizza enthusiast, Neapolitan pizza originates from Naples, Italy. The classic Margherita pizza is topped with:

• Tomato sauce
• Fresh mozzarella cheese
• Fresh basil
• Extra virgin olive oil

What sets Neapolitan pizza apart is its thin base with a crispy yet light and airy crust, achieved through a long proof time and high-quality ingredients.

Authentic Neapolitan pizzas are cooked in traditional wood-fired ovens that can reach temperatures up to 500 degrees Celsius, allowing the pizza to be cooked in about 90 seconds. Notable spots for Neapolitan pizza include Pizzeria Da Michele in Naples, known for its traditional and delicious offerings.

Enjoying a slice of Neapolitan pizza is like taking a bite out of Italian culinary history, with flavors that are both simple and profound.

Massaman Curry with Coconut Milk, Thailand

Standing out for its use of warm spices, reminiscent of Indian curries, Massaman curry is a rich and aromatic Thai dish. This curry includes ingredients like:

• coconut milk
• palm sugar
• tamarind paste
• fish sauce
• chicken
• potatoes
• onions
• roasted peanuts

Despite pork being popular in Thailand, Massaman curry is considered a Muslim-Thai food and is never made with pork. The mild flavor of this curry makes it suitable for kids or those with low spice tolerance, offering a delicious and comforting meal.