What to Eat in Each Country: Gastronomy Around the World

Gastronomy is much more than nutrition – it is history, identity and culture served in every bite. Discover what to eat in each country is to delve into ancient traditions…

Unique culinary techniques and flavor combinations that tell the essence of a people.

From a simple street dish in Bangkok to a Michelin-starred dinner in Paris, food is one of the most authentic ways to experience the world.

According to the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), 331,000 travelers choose their destinations based on gastronomy – a number that is only increasing, especially among millennials and Generation Z, who value immersive experiences.

In this guide, we'll explore the must-try dishes from each region, from time-honored classics to trends that are revolutionizing global cuisine.

But what to eat in each country? Get ready for a trip that will sharpen your senses and inspire your next adventure.

Gastronomy as a Cultural Expression

What to eat in each country? Cuisine is a direct reflection of a country's history and natural resources.

Local ingredients, traditional preparation methods and colonial influences shape dishes that become national symbols.

In France, for example, baguettes and cheese are so important that they have been declared Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO.

In Japan, washoku (traditional cuisine) is an art that requires precision and respect for ingredients.

But gastronomy is also evolving. The new generation of chefs is reinventing classic dishes with modern techniques, such as natural yeast in bread or vacuum cooking.

A striking example is Peru, where gastronomy has become an economic engine.

Restaurants like Central and Maido take Andean ingredients to a global level, proving that innovation can coexist with tradition.

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Europe: Flavors that Stand the Test of Time

Europe is a continent where each country has its own gastronomic signature.

In Italy, simplicity reigns: al dente spaghetti with fresh tomato sauce and basil can be a transcendental experience.

In Spain, Valencian paella – originally made with rice, chicken, rabbit and green beans – is a dish that brings families together around the stove.

And you can't talk about Spain without mentioning the pintxos of the Basque Country, small masterpieces served on bars.

France, of course, is synonymous with sophistication. A well-prepared boeuf bourguignon is a lesson in balance: tender meat, reduced red wine and fresh mushrooms.

And who can resist a golden, flaky croissant, still warm from the oven?

But Europe also has less obvious surprises.

In Hungary, goulash is a hearty stew that warms up the winter, while in Greece, moussaka – eggplant, minced meat and béchamel – is a dish that will win over even the most discerning palates.

What to eat in each country? Fusion of Traditions and Innovation

The American continent is a melting pot of influences. In Mexico, corn is the base of everything – from carnitas tacos to tamal, wrapped in banana leaves.

Mole poblano, with its complexity of spices and chocolate, is a dish that requires patience and mastery.

The United States has already transformed the hamburger into a global icon, but today the gastronomic scene goes much further.

Restaurants like Eleven Madison Park in New York City show that plant-based cuisine can be sophisticated and delicious.

In Peru, ceviche is an explosion of freshness – white fish marinated in leche de tigre (lemon, chili pepper and red onion), served with sweet potato and corn.

In Argentina, the secret of chorizo steak lies in the quality of the meat and the handling of the fire.

Brazil, of course, has its own richness. Feijoada, with its mix of meats and black beans, is a dish that unites the country. And who has never surrendered to a crispy and stuffed pastel from the fair?

Asia: What to eat in each country, harmony of flavors and textures

Asian cuisine is a study in balance. In Japan, sushi made with otoro (tuna belly fat) melts in your mouth, while ramen combines rich broth, al dente noodles and a variety of toppings.

Thailand is famous for tom yum, a spicy and sour soup, and pad thai, stir-fried noodles with tamarind and peanuts.

In India, butter chicken is a creamy dish that has conquered the world, but the real treasure lies in regional dishes, such as Hyderabad biryani.

China offers an impressive diversity – from Hong Kong dim sum to Beijing Peking duck, with crispy skin and succulent meat.

And we can't forget South Korea, where kimchi (spicy fermented food) is an essential side dish.

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Africa: Strong Roots and Bold Flavors

Morocco is a destination for the senses. Tagine, cooked slowly in a clay pot, combines meat, dried fruits and spices such as cinnamon and saffron. Couscous is a dish that varies from family to family.

In Ethiopia, injera – a spongy, slightly sour bread – serves as a base and topping for dips such as wat (spicy) and alicha (mild). Africa surprises with bobotie, a sweet and savory dish made with ground meat and topped with an egg crust.

It's worth checking out the typical foods of each country.

Oceania: Freshness and Multicultural Influences

Australia has a vibrant food scene, with specialty cafes in Melbourne and fresh seafood in Sydney.

Bush tucker (a native food) is gaining ground, with ingredients such as wattleseed and lemon myrtle. To know what to eat in each country, you need to pay attention to the tips.

In New Zealand, lamb is king, often slow-roasted in a hangi (a Maori underground cooking pit).

And you can't ignore pavlova, a meringue and fruit dessert that is a source of contention between Australians and New Zealanders.

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Sustainable Gastronomy: The Future of Food

Restaurants around the world are adopting sustainable practices, from using local ingredients to reducing waste. ]

Noma in Denmark is one example, with its menu based on foraging and fermentation. What to eat in each country?

Imagine a world where every meal contributes to preserving the planet. It’s not just possible – it’s already happening.

Conclusion: The World in Every Plate

Discover what to eat in each country It is one of the richest ways to travel without leaving home. Each dish tells a story, each flavor reveals a culture.

What will be your next gastronomic stop?

Frequently Asked Questions : What to eat in each country

1. Which country has the most diverse cuisine?
Peru is often cited as one of the most diverse, with indigenous, Spanish, African and Asian influences.

2. How to choose authentic dishes when traveling?
Opt for local restaurants, public markets and ask locals for recommendations. Avoid generic tourist spots.

3. What is the gastronomic trend for 2025?
Sustainable food, creative fermentation and appreciation of native ingredients are on the rise.

Enrique Medeiros Updated June 1, 2025