Traveling is all about widening your horizons by visiting new places, meeting new people, and learning about different cultures. It’s also about exposing your palate to the world’s different flavours. Every country has its own distinct cuisine, which is frequently influenced by waves of immigration, the local environment, and the ever-expanding community of travellers. Here are some of the best cities in the world offering the most delectable food. Osaka, Japan Osaka, called ‘The Kitchen of Japan’, is highly regarded as the gourmet metropolis of Japan. The citizens of the city are recognised for their laid-back, fun-loving attitude, which is mirrored in the food scene. Okonomiyaki and takoyaki (grilled octopus balls) are the most popular dishes found in every corner of the city. Osaka also features some of Japan’s largest seafood markets, BY JADE CRASTO Cities with the best food culture that feature daily tuna auctions. If you’re looking for inexpensive food, head to Dontonbori Street, where street vendors serve anything from kushikatsu (deepfried skewered meat and veggies) to yakitori (chicken grilled over a charcoal fire). Kuromon Ichiba Market, located nearby, sells fresh food, shrimp and handicrafts. Head to Honkogetsu, for some classic Japanese cuisine in the kaiseki tradition of presenting numerous tiny, complex, and exquisite courses in succession. Honkogetsu, located on a tiny cobblestone path leading to the famous Hozenji Yokocho temple, provides a look into bygone Japan. The first-floor counter is built of a single 600-year-old hinoki wood board. Hanging scrolls and traditional ikebana flower arrangements greet diners. The second and third levels have tatami flooring. Then there’s the food: exquisite seasonal bites like ayu (sweet fish) in mugwort, roasted squid legs, and prawn with dried sea cucumber. Bangkok, Thailand Hailed as the world’s street food capital, Bangkok’s cuisine is known for its flavour explosions, which combine the five sensations of spicy, sour, salty, sweet, and bitter. Popular street foods include tom yam goong (sour shrimp soup), pad Thai (stir-fried noodle dish), and som tam (green papaya salad), which can be found around the city for 100 baht (Approximately Rs.239) or less. Hundreds of street vendors serve food from early morning till late at night in Chinatown, Silom, and Bangkok Old City. If you want to get away from the city centre, go to Soi Rambuttri, which is located in the ancient zone near the iconic Khao San Road. If you truly wish to understand Thai food, a must visit is Aksorn, which is all about resurrecting lost flavours and dishes as the country transitioned from rich Siamese history to modern Thailand, as well as honouring unsung food heroes ranging from matriarchs Dontonbori Street, Osaka, Japan Takoyaki INTERNATIONAL FOOD 38|LUXEBOOK|MARCH 2023 MARCH 2023 |LUXEBOOK|39
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