Gastronomic trips differ from the rest because they incorporate one more element into their planning. An element that joins the enjoyment and that helps to know in depth the culture of the places that are visited: the gastronomy. Gastronomic travelers investigate the gastronomic customs of the places they are going to visit and look for the best restaurants, the most renowned specialties, and the most extraordinary wine bars. And they combine the common tourist experience with visits to places of worship for the most gourmet palates. We show you some amazing destinations where you will enjoy unparalleled gastronomic trips.
The best destinations for gastronomic trips
Italy: Long Live Pasta
There is a reason why both the book and the novel Eat, Pray, Love to make the first part, the one dedicated to food, happen in Italy. And it is that we are facing one of the most exciting gastronomic destinations in Europe. You may have thought first of France and its Gourmets, but Italy is the cradle of simply delicious specialties. Pasta, of course, is one of them. You can try it as they prepare it in the CiPasso, in Rome. This is a restaurant and wine bar serving traditional Italian food. So you can start with a silver plate and end with an exquisite tiramisu. If you are looking for gastronomic destinations with a traditional flavor, this is one of them. But remember that Naples is the home of pizza. Here you will find the best and the biggest. Since you’re in Italy, don’t forget to have an espresso. There they drink them in one gulp.
Japan: Not Everything Is Sushi
Japan sneaks into number two of our gastronomic trips on its own merits. Surely you are thinking of sushi and sashimi. If so, our recommendation is that you do not stop trying them, of course not. But do it in the best place possible: the Tokyo Fish Market. You will have to get up early, but it will be worth it. There they will serve you the best and freshest fish.
In any case, Japan offers a very wide gastronomic variety. The Yokohama Ramen Museum, one of the many neighborhoods in Tokyo, teaches you all the secrets of preparing this dish, which you can try at any of the museum’s own restaurants. If you stay in a traditional hotel, ask for a Japanese breakfast. It will surprise you. Don’t forget to go to one of the many places where they serve curry. No, it is not the most traditional thing in Japan, but they have adapted the use of this spice to their cuisine and the result is delicious.
Russia: For The Most Carnivorous
Who has not ever dreamed of eating Russian caviar? Sure enough, Russia ranks third on our list of food tours. Eastern European food is largely unknown to many Western Europeans. And this is something that must be remedied as soon as possible. Moscow and Saint Petersburg are two great cities where you can try some of the best-known Russian specialties. Steak tartar or Russian steak is one of them. It is raw minced meat macerated in local spices.
The history of this dish is picturesque. The tsar’s couriers traveled on horseback and had to spend as little time as possible delivering their letters. Therefore, they did not usually stop to eat in three-course restaurants. They would place the mixture of meat and spices under the saddle. Thus, with the heat of the horse and the blows of the road, the meat was cooked and ready to eat in a moment. Today, of course, the preparation is much more hygienic.
India: Intensity Of Flavors And Smells
To eat Indian food is to invite the palate to get lost in a cloud of new and intense flavors. The color of the chicken tika masala, of intense pink color, the red and green curry, the turmeric, yellow… The colors, flavors, and smells of the country are reflected in its best-known dishes. Go to a good restaurant and ask for a tasting. But be careful with the spiciness. In fact, you can ask to have your food served without it. It may be the best idea. Remember that pita bread, which is used in India, does not have yeast. Of course, they knead it with different flavors. The best thing is that you let yourself be advised by the waiter so that the experience is optimal. Don’t miss out on their sugary yogurt drink. It is refreshing, sweet, and very digestive.
Food tours are a fun and highly immersive way to learn about the culture of the places you visit. If you don’t want to fall into tourist traps, it’s best to see where the locals go. They may not take you to the most expensive and fancy restaurants, but you will get real local food. Count on Exotica to help you plan your gastronomic trips around the world. Get in contact with us.
You may like to read Duck breasts in the raspberry sauce: a delicious recipe
