Florence, Italy
Florence is loaded with some hallmark dishes. Chief among them, rabbit and steak. The city itself is famous for its steak, which is often quartered and grilled to perfection over an open fire. Rabbit is a delicacy in Italy, and it’s often stewed in delicious ways. Being in the general vicinity of Tuscany, the wine in this region is elite. You’d do well to partake in drinking some of the classy offerings. Wine is also infused in many dishes to add body and richness.
Hanoi, Vietnam
The combination of native Vietnamese flavors paired with French techniques make this culinary scene phenomenal. There are so many dishes that exemplify roots from the colonial period of France — namely pho (a beef broth soup with delicious noodles, vegetables, and meat), and a banh mi sandwich — pate, cilantro, and vegetables on a buttered French baguette. The citrus notes within Vietnamese cooking add an undeniably dynamic nature to cuisine throughout the country. If you’re coming from the Western world, you’ll be delighted to encounter numerous items that truly enhance the eating experience.
Crete, Greece
Greek food — specifically in Crete — is delicious. The country has major influence from cultures all across the Mediterranean region. Italian and Croatian roots are present here — as are ones from throughout Turkey and the Middle East. This amalgamation of fresh herbs and olive oils gives the food a terrific flavor. While it might be rustic, it’s sublime. Being a coastal country, Greece also offers top-of-the-line seafood. The warm climate caters to fresh fruits and vegetables — namely tomatoes and lemons. Lastly, the emphasis on farming throughout the region results in some of the best cheese on Earth.
Rome, Italy
Rome is known for the four major pastas: all’Amatriciana, cacio e pepe, carbonara, and gricia. Do yourself a favor and have each of them at least once while in Rome. The pizza scene here is better than you’d imagine — as is the gelato. Being one of the bigger cities in Southern Europe, coupled with being in one of the best food-centric countries on the planet, it’s no secret that you’ll eat very, very well in Rome. Being a big city with modernity, you can even find excellent non-Italian food should you opt for a break from the carbs.
Cusco, Peru
Lomo Saltado is a dish you’ll immediately fall in love with. Grilled steak, peppers, onions, fries, and a cilantro-based cream sauce come on a bed of toasty white rice. There’s a rich culinary tapestry in Cusco — as well as in Lima and other parts of the country. The mixture of indigenous, Spanish, and even Chinese influence is very prevalent through a plethora of dishes. Peruvians pride themselves on their ceviche recipes, and for good reason considering they’re arguably the best in the world.
