TripSavvy’s Gastronomic Guide to Travel

For many travelers, exploring a new city or region isn’t complete without a deep dive into its local cuisine and ingredients. (In fact, one poll found that around three in four Americans—74 percent, to be exact—who have traveled over the past five years went for the food.) Whether it be snagging a coveted reservation, taking a cooking class to learn how to prepare dishes from a new cuisine, or trying a lesser-known local dish, standout culinary experiences can often be the inspiration for a “food-centric” holiday.

Some destinations already have a reputation for their culinary offerings. Those visiting France, for example, know about the nation’s wine and champagne scene. Those vacationing in Thailand often take a cooking class. And those exploring Italy know an Aperol spritz is a must. But there’s more to be said and done. Case in point: You can take a run-of-the-mill cooking class or you can learn cooking with a Michelin-starred chef.

To help inspire your next culinary getaway, we’ve curated a series of stories that dive into the history of iconic dishes, emerging culinary trends, and unique foodie experiences that will (hopefully) jumpstart your wanderlust. This includes the behind-the-scenes details of what it takes to crown Paris’ best baguette, the rum cocktail worth flying to Portugal for, how to ethically source a food tour, and the surprising cuisine thriving (and evolving) in Alaska’s capital city. (And, yes, there’s even a piece on the five destinations where you can learn to cook with a Michelin-starred chef.)

And if you’re looking for some passionate recommendations, we have seven travel editors and writers sharing their favorite dish from their local city (or a city they love!) and where to get the best of the best. Think the best bagels in New York City, a roundup of dive bars in Austin, and where to get some of the most unforgettable beignets in New Orleans.