TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Food is an essential part of any travel experience. Every destination offers unique flavors that reflect its culture and history. Beyond traditional recipes, modern culinary innovations are also transforming taste buds.

TripAdvisor has revealed 15 cities renowned for their exceptional food scenes. These destinations promise unforgettable culinary experiences, extending beyond Michelin-starred restaurants to encompass a wide range of dining options.

Here is a list of 15 culinary cities to discover in 2024:

1. Hawaii, United States

Known for its pristine beaches, Hawaii has a vibrant culinary scene featuring fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and local flavors. The island's cuisine is a delightful fusion of fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and indigenous flavors.

Oahu, in particular, is a food lover's paradise. From legendary restaurants to trendy food trucks, the island offers a diverse range of dining experiences that showcase the best of Hawaiian cuisine.

2. New Orleans, United States

New Orleans is renowned for its Creole and Cajun cuisine, a vibrant blend of French, Spanish, African, Caribbean, and Native American culinary influences.

Must-try dishes include the hearty gumbo (a thick stew with meat or seafood and vegetables), jambalaya (a spicy rice dish), rich crawfish étouffée (crayfish in a roux-based sauce), and the beloved beignets (fried pastries with powdered sugar). Immerse yourself in the city's culinary heritage by exploring the iconic French Quarter.

3. Jamaica, Caribbean

Jamaican cuisine is a flavorful blend of home-cooked comfort food and fresh local ingredients. Travelers can savor classic dishes like ackee and saltfish, curried goat, and the beloved rice and peas.

For a deeper culinary experience, consider a farm-to-table cooking tour that combines agricultural exploration with a delicious five-course meal and a vibrant cultural performance. The island's signature jerk chicken, marinated in a fragrant spice blend and grilled to perfection, is a must-try for any food enthusiast.

4. Mexico City, Mexico

This bustling metropolis offers a diverse culinary scene. Immerse yourself in the vibrant street food scene, savoring tacos al pastor and other local delicacies at bustling taquerias (taco joints) and mercados (markets). For a more refined experience, venture into the city's upscale dining scene, where traditional flavors meet international influences at renowned restaurants like Rosetta and Maximo Bistrot.

5. Brussels, Belgium

Brussels is a chocolate lover's paradise. Delve into the rich history of this sweet treat at museums like Choco-Story Brussels before embarking on a delightful chocolate and beer tour.

For the ultimate indulgence, pair your chocolate with a classic Belgian waffle. Maison Dandoy is a renowned spot to savor these crispy, rectangular delights.

6. Naples, Italy

There is no better place to savor authentic pizza than its birthplace, Naples. Originating as a humble meal for the working class in the 16th century, pizza evolved when Neapolitans began experimenting with toppings on their flatbread.

7. Athens, Greece

Athenian cuisine is a delightful blend of Mediterranean flavors, incorporating olive oil, aromatic spices, fresh seafood, hearty grains, creamy dairy, and crunchy nuts. Immerse yourself in the local food scene by exploring vibrant markets like Varvakois Agora (Central Market), where you can savor fresh produce and indulge in popular street food such as souvlaki (grilled meat skewers) and koulouri (sesame-coated bread rings).

8. Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona's cuisine is a vibrant fusion of Catalan and Mediterranean flavors, characterized by bold tastes and fresh ingredients. Seafood, meat, and an abundance of fresh produce are staples.

To truly experience the city's culinary heart, indulge in tapas—small, shareable dishes. Explore bustling markets like Mercat de Sant Antoni and Mercat de la Boqueria and discover the city's culinary soul.

9. Paris, France

Paris is renowned as a global culinary epicenter, second only to Tokyo in Michelin-starred restaurants. The city's chefs are celebrated for their mastery of technique and use of high-quality ingredients. This excellence is evident not only in the city's haute cuisine establishments but also in its casual eateries, bistros, and vibrant food markets.

10. Bangkok, Thailand

Bangkok truly comes alive after dark. Explore bustling night markets or vibrant food streets like Khao San Road. Indulge in a wide array of affordable Thai street food, from the comforting warmth of leng saap (spicy pork bone soup) to the fiery kick of green curry. Don't miss iconic dishes like pad thai or explore the unique flavors of Isan cuisine.

11. Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto, Japan's former imperial capital, has a rich history and culture which is deeply reflected in its cuisine. Characterized by subtle flavors, seasonal ingredients, and exquisite presentation, Kyoto's culinary scene is renowned for its elegance.

Kaiseki, a meticulously prepared multi-course meal, epitomizes this sophistication. The city is equally celebrated for its tea culture, with traditional tea ceremonies, charming teahouses, and the finest matcha or green tea serving as hallmarks of the Kyoto experience.

12. Hanoi, Vietnam

Hanoi cuisine is renowned for its subtle elegance. The focus is on highlighting the natural flavors of fresh ingredients through light broths and simple seasonings. A prime example is bun cha, a noodle dish featuring grilled pork and a delicate dipping sauce that perfectly complements the smoky char of the meat.

13. New Delhi, India

New Delhi's culinary scene reflects not only its deep cultural history but also its modern cosmopolitan influences. Begin your gastronomic journey with the iconic butter chicken, a global favorite.

Explore the bustling streets of Old Delhi, where you can savor local delights such as crispy jalebi (fried flour snack), spicy chole bhature (chickpea curry), and refreshing lassi (yogurt drink). Don't miss the opportunity to explore Khari Baoli, Asia's largest spice market, for an aromatic sensory experience.

14. Istanbul, Turkey

Istanbul boasts a cuisine as dynamic and captivating as its history. Positioned strategically on the Silk Road, this cultural melting pot has absorbed culinary influences from both Europe and Asia, resulting in a distinctive and flavorful cuisine.

15. Marrakesh, Morocco

Marrakesh cuisine is renowned for its distinctive blend of sweet and savory flavors. Indulge in local delicacies such as b'stilla (savory pastry with a sweet twist), the hearty and flavorful harira soup (tomato-based soup), or tangia (slow-cooked meat dish).

Whether you are a food enthusiast or simply enjoy experiencing a new culture through its cuisine, this list of 15 top culinary cities promises unforgettable culinary adventures and a deeper appreciation for the role of food in shaping the identity of a place.

MILA NOVITA

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