One of the best ways to experience a new culture is through its food. But finding authentic, delicious local dishes can be challenging, especially in touristy areas. Here’s how to discover the best local food while traveling.
1. Avoid Tourist Traps & Overpriced Restaurants
✔️ Skip restaurants near major tourist attractions—they often cater to tourists rather than locals.
✔️ Check where locals eat—a crowded place with locals is usually a good sign.
✔️ Look for handwritten menus in the local language—tourist spots often have translated menus with inflated prices.
🍽️ Example: In Rome, avoid restaurants with hosts trying to pull you in—locals don’t eat there.
2. Ask Locals for Recommendations
✔️ Taxi drivers, hotel staff, and shop owners usually know the best food spots.
✔️ Use social media and travel groups for real-time recommendations.
✔️ Join food tours to experience authentic dishes.
🥢 Example: In Japan, ask a local where they get their favorite ramen—it won’t be a chain restaurant.
3. Use Food Apps & Reviews Wisely
✔️ Google Maps & Yelp – Check reviews, but beware of fake ones.
✔️ Eatwith – Book home-cooked meals with locals.
✔️ HappyCow – Find the best vegetarian and vegan restaurants.
📱 Pro Tip: Look for places with high ratings from locals, not just tourists.
4. Visit Local Markets & Street Food Stalls
✔️ Markets offer fresh, traditional ingredients used by locals.
✔️ Street food is often the most authentic and affordable option.
✔️ Farmers’ markets are great for sampling regional specialties.
🌮 Example: In Bangkok, the best Pad Thai and mango sticky rice come from street vendors, not fancy restaurants.
5. Try Regional Specialties & Traditional Dishes
✔️ Every country has must-try dishes—make a list before your trip.
✔️ Don’t be afraid to try new flavors and ingredients.
✔️ Ask waiters or chefs for their recommendations.
🍜 Example: In Vietnam, try Pho in Hanoi and Banh Mi in Ho Chi Minh City—each city has its own unique flavors.
6. Join a Cooking Class
✔️ Learn how to cook local dishes from expert chefs.
✔️ Experience the culture firsthand by using traditional ingredients.
✔️ Take the knowledge home and recreate dishes from your travels.
👩🍳 Example: In Thailand, a cooking class can teach you how to make authentic Green Curry and Tom Yum Soup.
7. Explore Beyond the Main Streets
✔️ Wander into side streets and residential areas for hidden gems.
✔️ Check small, family-run restaurants—they often serve the best homemade food.
✔️ Look for “hole-in-the-wall” places with long lines of locals.
🥘 Example: In Spain, the best tapas bars are usually in neighborhoods, not near tourist centers.
8. Order What the Locals Eat
✔️ Observe what people around you are ordering and ask for the same.
✔️ Try the daily specials—they’re often fresh and seasonal.
✔️ Be open to recommendations from your server.
🍛 Example: In India, locals often eat Thali, a mix of different flavors and textures served on a single plate.
Final Thoughts
Finding authentic local food is one of the most rewarding parts of travel. By avoiding tourist traps, asking locals, and exploring markets, you’ll discover incredible dishes that truly represent the culture.