The best cities to take a food tour

Embarking on a food tour is an immersive way to discover the heart and soul of a city through its culinary offerings. From bustling markets to hidden gems and iconic dishes, cities around the world offer unique flavours and experiences that cater to every palate. Let’s explore some of the best cities to take a food tour.

London

London is steeped in history and known for its diverse culinary landscape. A food tour through this vibrant district promises iconic Cockney fare. You can feast on traditional East End dishes like jellied eels and pie and mash at historic pie shops.

As a cosmopolitan city, you can taste its global influences - explore Brick Lane’s curry houses, showcasing South Asian flavours, and sample beigels (bagels) at iconic spots like Beigel Bake. The markets are wonderful, too - wander through Spitalfields Market and Borough Market, discovering artisanal cheeses, fresh produce, and gourmet street food.

Toronto

Toronto’s multicultural makeup makes it a foodie paradise with diverse culinary offerings. On a food tour in Toronto, you can expect to discover fusion delights and indulge in butter chicken roti, sushi pizza, and other innovative dishes that blend global flavours with Canadian influences.

It’s also fun to explore trendy neighbourhoods like Kensington Market and the Distillery District, each offering its own culinary delights and cultural insights. You can’t miss Canadian classics such as poutine, served with cheese curds and gravy, or a peameal bacon sandwich from St. Lawrence Market.

Vancouver

Surrounded by mountains and the Pacific Ocean, Vancouver boasts a thriving food scene that celebrates local ingredients and Asian influences. Highlights of a food tour in Vancouver include the city’s incredible seafood - you can enjoy freshly shucked oysters, wild Pacific salmon, and seafood chowder. Vancouver also has a range of Asian culinary delights.

You can explore Richmond’s Asian food scene, known for its authentic dim sum, sushi, and vibrant night markets. I also recommend heading to Granville Island Market to sample artisanal products, showcasing the region’s farm-to-table ethos.

New York City

New York City’s culinary landscape reflects its diverse population, offering a plethora of iconic dishes and international cuisines. There are plenty of iconic foods you need to try. Sample New York-style pizza in Brooklyn, bagels with lox in Manhattan’s Lower East Side, and cheesecake in Midtown.

My favourite foodie thing to do in New York is to simply discover vibrant neighbourhoods like Chinatown, Little Italy, and Harlem, each offering unique culinary experiences. Don’t forget the local markets - visit Union Square Greenmarket or Chelsea Market for fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and gourmet treats.

Bangkok

Bangkok’s bustling street markets and food stalls offer a sensory journey through Thailand’s vibrant culinary scene. Indulge in pad Thai, green curry, mango sticky rice, and crispy fried insects at markets like Chatuchak and Khao San Road.

Experience the energy of Bangkok’s night markets, sampling grilled seafood, Thai desserts, and exotic fruits. One of the best things to do in Bangkok is to learn about Thai ingredients at a cooking class, where you can learn techniques and food traditions from local guides and street vendors.

Barcelona

Barcelona’s rich culinary heritage is best explored through its tapas bars, markets, and traditional Catalan cuisine. Wander through the Gothic Quarter, sampling jamón ibérico, patatas bravas, and fresh seafood at La Boqueria Market to sample the best tapas that the city has to offer.

Enjoy authentic paella by the beach or in traditional restaurants, paired with local wines and vermouth. If you fancy something a little sweeter, indulge in churros con chocolate and crema catalana for dessert.

Why choose a food tour?

There are so many reasons why taking a food tour in a new city is a good idea. You can learn where the locals eat, and discover all the best spots and foods to try.

From London’s historic East End to the multicultural flavours of Vancouver’s Pacific bounty, these cities offer exceptional food tour experiences that cater to every taste. Whether you’re indulging in iconic dishes, exploring vibrant markets, or discovering hidden culinary gems, a food tour provides a deeper understanding and appreciation of each city’s food scene. Start planning your next gastronomic adventure and explore why these cities are among the best in the world for food tours.