14 Foodie Capitals Every Culinary Traveler Should Visit

Food is life for a lot of people. So, it’s no wonder that it’s often what we think about whenever we visit a new place. Even the culinary experience in a place can influence the destination people choose to travel to.

In fact, according to American Express Travel’s 2023 Global Travel Trends Report survey, 81% of the surveyed people say that the culinary experience is the aspect they look forward to most. That is a very valid opinion.

With this in mind, we will share a list of the world’s best foodie capitals by Japan Rail Pass that are definitely worth a visit. Assessing metrics like the number of 5-star restaurants, culinary tourist attractions, and Michelin Guide restaurants, here are fourteen of the top destinations for culinary travelers. 

1. Paris, France

Paris, France, is named the official foodie capital worldwide, with an overall score of 92.71 out of 100. This is due to the high number of 5-star restaurants, Michelin-Guide restaurants, and culinary attractions to explore.

The French capital offers 12 national dishes, 500 Michelin-Guide restaurants, and 2,109 5-star restaurants. Be sure to try classic French foods like croissants, baguettes, escargot, coq au vin, French onion soup, macarons, steak frites, duck confit, and crème brûlée. 

If Paris, or France in general, is on your “maybe” list, this is a sign to start planning your trip. Aside from the cuisine, Paris is also home to landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, the romantic Seine, and the historic Montmartre neighborhood district. 

2. Athens, Greece

Athens in Greece is definitely known for its architectural landmarks dating back thousands of years. But Athens is also home to delicious food, ranking second with an overall score of 83.86 out of 100. 

Try bougatsa, the Greek custard pie. Or try moussaka, which is an eggplant and minced meat casserole. It’s hard to go wrong in Athens. What it lacks in the number of restaurants, it makes up for in price.

With the average meal at $42.04 for two people, dining out in the city is extremely affordable.

3. Tokyo, Japan

Yes, Tokyo is a popular tourist destination for many reasons, such as anime, pretty scenery, and friendly people. But Tokyo is also popular for its food. Must-tries include gyudon (Japanese Beef Rice Bowl), gyōza (dumplings), and ramen (Japanese noodle dish).

Tokyo comes in third with an overall score of 81.34 out of 100. It offers seven national dishes, 537 Michelin Guide restaurants, and 4,738 5-star restaurants.

Tokyo is the most budget-friendly city on this list, with an average price of $34.12 for a meal for two. When in doubt about whether to visit this city, the food culture of Japan alone will be enough to entice a visit.

4. Zürich, Switzerland

Switzerland is known for its dramatic alpine mountain views, scenic train rides, and incredible nature. Coming in at number four is Zürich, Switzerland.

Zürich has an overall score of 80.69 out of 100 and over 235 5-star restaurants. It’s also the most expensive foodie capital on the list, with the average meal costing $103.53 for two people.

Their fondue and raclette? Certainly something to try. There are other must-try foods, like their rösti (Swiss potato cake) or hafächabis (traditional stew).

But one thing’s for sure: they love their potatoes, so expect variants of potato dishes. 

5. Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Here’s Amsterdam placing fifth, with an overall score of 78.74 out of 100. There are 553 5-star restaurants and over 100 Michelin Guide restaurants. The country only has two national dishes, but that’s no reason to skip Amsterdam.

One of its national dishes, stamppot, is a traditional Dutch dish made from mashed potatoes and kale and typically garnished with a local sausage. It’s certainly something to try, but know plenty of other cuisines and restaurants are available.

6. Prague, Czech Republic

Prague, in the Czech Republic, is in sixth place, with an overall score of 77.74. While there are 904 5-star restaurants in Prague, it falls short with only 26 Michelin Guide restaurants.

One thing to try in Prague is their signature beef steak tartare, which is said to be the best complement side or appetizer for a beer. They’re also known for their goulash, a stew made with meat and spices.

7. Valletta, Malta

Valletta in Malta ranks seventh with an overall score of 77.40. Although it may be best known for its historical landscape with its museums, churches, and grand palaces, its cuisine is not lacking either.

There is a lot of food to choose from in Valletta, as Malta is an archipelago, so expect seafood. Of course, don’t forget about meat. They’re known for their stuffat tal-fenek (rabbit stew), which is just one of their rabbit-served dishes.

8. Brussels, Belgium

With an overall score of 76.71, Brussels in Belgium ranks eighth. Brussels has 200 Michelin Guide restaurants and 374 5-star restaurants. Brussels is known for its chocolates and beers and its beautiful and grand-looking architectural landscape, but this city has a lot to offer.

Brussels’ cuisine has so much variety. They have shrimp croquettes, a perfect snack to bring while strolling around. Mitraillette, a sandwich that can be stuffed with many different ingredients. And the very tasty and delicious-looking Boulet à la liégeoise (meatballs with sweet sauce).

Don’t forget to try their Belgian waffles for the complete experience. It will be worth it, and it’s a surefire way to want to come back for more.

9. Dublin, Ireland

We have Dublin from the Republic of Ireland at number nine with an overall score of 75.70. Dublin has 231 5-star restaurants and 36 Michelin Guide restaurants. Dublin is known mainly for its Dublin Castle or Saint Patrick’s Day, but it has a lot of good food to eat.

Take Colcannon, for example. It’s a traditional potato-based dish that can be served with cabbage or kale. For an authentic Irish experience, try traditional Irish stew. It is often prepared with potatoes, lamb or beef, carrots, and onions.

10. Madrid, Spain

Madrid in Spain comes in at number ten with an overall score of 75.34. Madrid is a historical place, as it is home to many historical structures, like the Royal Palace, which attracts many visitors. So, it’s no wonder there are so many stalls, shops, and restaurants around.

There are many famous Spanish dishes, like tortillas de patatas (Spanish omelets) and croquetas (croquettes). For any squid fan, try their Bocadillo de Calamares (Calamari sandwich).

For a more authentic Madrid experience, order their Cocido Madrileño, Madrid’s three-course stew. To end it with something sweet, have churros and select one of the many topics, including chocolate sauce or dulce de leche.

11. Ljubljana, Slovenia

Ljubljana in Slovenia ranks number 11 with an overall 75 out of 100 score. Ljubljana is known for its classical music, as it has a historically significant philharmonic orchestra. Aside from the historical and beautiful architectural landscape, Ljubljana is also home to a variety of dishes that are waiting to be experienced. 

Idrijski žlikrofi (potato-filled dumplings) is one of the Slovenian foods to try. If trying snacks is the preference, try ocvirki or their pork cracklings. For dessert, definitely check out Prekmurska gibanica (Slovenian layered cake), which comes in different fillings.

12. London, England

Now we have London in England at the 12th spot with an overall score of 70.72. London has 2,410 5-star restaurants and 346 Michelin Guide restaurants.

When people hear of London, they might think of the sports teams, the galleries and museums, or even the royal family itself. However, London also has many famous foods to offer besides the typical English sandwich.

Scotch Egg is a good choice for trying something different. It is a dish with a boiled egg surrounded by pork meat coated in breadcrumbs and then deep-fried. While there, you can also experience the full English breakfast that people typically eat in movies. Oh, and their afternoon tea, of course.

13. Seoul, South Korea

Seoul, in South Korea, has an overall score of 69.22. It has the highest number of 5-star restaurants on this list, with 4,739 5-star restaurants. When people think of Seoul, they might think of BTS or Blackpink, the K-dramas. But food can’t be missed in this picture.

Korea’s food culture is so strong that eating a lot of food as a challenge (called mukbang) can be a source of income. 

Jjajangmyeon (black bean noodles) or their infamous tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) should be experienced in Seoul.

14. Copenhagen, Denmark

The next foodie capital on our list is Copenhagen in Denmark, with an overall score of 68.48. Copenhagen is home to grand and majestic castles, palaces, and beautiful surrounding gardens. 

One way to experience Danish food fully is to try their open sandwiches, called smørrebrød. The name may seem vague, but open sandwiches are sandwiches with layers of filling, such as meat, fish, or vegetables.

Also, try the Danish hotdogs. To have that authentic and genuine experience, buy it from a street stall or market instead of ordering it at a local restaurant.