Food and travel go hand in hand, and 2025 is shaping up to be an exciting year for culinary explorers. From emerging best food destinations in the world to hidden gems serving the greatest food ever, there are plenty of places to add to your foodie bucket list. Whether you’re craving innovative fine dining, traditional street food, or farm-to-table experiences, these best places to travel for food will satisfy your taste buds.
Here are eight must-visit destinations for food lovers in 2025.
Crete, Greece – The European Region of Gastronomy
If you’re looking for the best places for food in the world, Crete should be at the top of your list. In 2025, this Greek island has been named the European Region of Gastronomy, celebrating its rich culinary heritage and farm-fresh ingredients.
What to Eat in Crete
- Dakos – A Cretan salad with tomatoes, feta, and barley rusks.
- Antikristo – A traditional lamb dish slow-cooked over an open fire.
- Kalitsounia – Sweet or savory cheese pastries, a must-try in Cretan bakeries.
With its combination of fresh Mediterranean flavors and deep-rooted food traditions, Crete is one of the best places to visit for foodies in 2025.
Louisiana, USA – A New Food Trail Adventure
The southern state of Louisiana has long been a mecca for food lovers, but 2025 will be a special year with the launch of new food destination trails highlighting the region’s Creole and Cajun influences.
Must-Try Dishes in Louisiana
- Po’ Boy Sandwich – A New Orleans classic stuffed with fried seafood or roast beef.
- Crawfish Étouffée – A rich and flavorful stew served over rice.
- Beignets – Deep-fried dough topped with powdered sugar, best enjoyed with a cup of chicory coffee.
Whether you’re exploring the jazz clubs of New Orleans or the bayous of Lafayette, Louisiana is one of the best food destinations in the US.
Bangkok, Thailand – A Street Food Paradise
If you’re a fan of bold flavors and exciting street food, Bangkok is one of the best places to travel for food. The city’s mix of traditional and modern culinary experiences makes it a must-visit in 2025.
Bangkok Food Highlights
- Pad Thai – The world-famous stir-fried noodle dish.
- Mango Sticky Rice – A sweet and creamy dessert that’s perfect on a hot day.
- Tom Yum Goong – A spicy and tangy shrimp soup packed with Thai herbs.
For those looking to experience the coolest food ever, Bangkok’s floating markets and night food stalls are unbeatable.
Osaka, Japan – The "Kitchen of Japan"
Hosting the 2025 World Expo, Osaka will be in the spotlight, making it one of the best places to visit for food next year. Known as “Japan’s Kitchen,” the city is famous for its street food culture and comforting, hearty dishes.
What to Eat in Osaka
- Takoyaki – Crispy octopus-filled balls drizzled with sweet and savory sauce.
- Okonomiyaki – A savory pancake packed with cabbage, pork, and seafood.
- Kushikatsu – Deep-fried skewers of meat, seafood, and vegetables.
For food lovers, Osaka offers some of the best foodie experiences in Asia.
Cape Town, South Africa – A Rising Star in Global Cuisine
Cape Town is gaining international recognition for its food scene, blending indigenous African flavors with global influences. The city has become a hub for fine dining, making it one of the best places to travel for foodies.
Cape Town’s Must-Try Foods
- Bobotie – A South African baked dish with spiced minced meat and an egg topping.
- Bunny Chow – A flavorful curry served inside a hollowed-out loaf of bread.
- Braai – A South African-style barbecue featuring grilled meats and boerewors sausages.
Food lovers will find Eater Cape Town to be a fantastic guide to the city’s top restaurants.
Mexico City, Mexico – The Capital of Tacos and More
If there’s one city that can claim the title of best places for food, it’s Mexico City. The capital’s dynamic street food scene and high-end dining experiences make it a must-visit for food travelers.
Best Eats in Mexico City
- Tacos al Pastor – The ultimate street food, featuring marinated pork shaved off a vertical spit.
- Chiles en Nogada – A seasonal dish made with poblano peppers, picadillo, and walnut sauce.
- Tamales – Corn dough stuffed with meats, cheeses, or sweet fillings, wrapped in corn husks.
As a food and travel destination, Mexico City is hard to beat.
Lisbon, Portugal – A Seafood Lover’s Dream
Lisbon has been climbing the ranks as one of the best food destinations in the world, thanks to its fresh seafood, traditional pastries, and innovative chefs.
Must-Try Dishes in Lisbon
- Bacalhau à Brás – A flavorful dish made with shredded salted cod, eggs, and onions.
- Pastéis de Nata – Portugal’s famous custard tarts, best enjoyed fresh from the oven.
- Sardinhas Assadas – Grilled sardines, a staple of Lisbon’s summer festivals.
Lisbon’s blend of history, culture, and food makes it a perfect culinary travel destination.
Copenhagen, Denmark – Home to the World’s Best Restaurant
Copenhagen continues to be a leader in the global food scene, with Noma previously crowned the best restaurant in the world. While Noma will close its doors in 2025, the city remains a hotspot for cutting-edge Nordic cuisine.
Why Visit Copenhagen for Food?
- A mix of Michelin-starred fine dining and traditional Danish comfort food.
- Innovative farm-to-table restaurants focusing on sustainability.
- New Nordic cuisine that reinvents local ingredients in surprising ways.
If you’re seeking the best food destinations in 2025, Copenhagen should be high on your list.
Final Thoughts: Where Will You Eat in 2025?
From the spice markets of Bangkok to the vineyards of Lisbon, these best places to eat around the world will take your taste buds on an unforgettable adventure. Whether you prefer high-end fine dining or flavorful street food, 2025 is full of exciting food destinations to explore.
Which of these best food destinations in the world will be your first stop?