As celebrity chef and world traveler Anthony Bourdain discovered, when you break bread together and share food, you break down barriers between cultures and people. Let’s take a look at some of these different cultures and people via their unique culinary experiences.
Street Food Vendors
For a truly unique and exciting atmosphere, try local delicacies and enjoy various types of portable food next time you travel. Usually sold by a hawker or vendor, street food is meant for immediate consumption and is often a more affordable option to sit-down restaurants.
- Street Food on Netflix: Learn all about street food in Asia with this Netflix series that covers the culture, atmosphere, people, and their stories.
- 20 Must-Try Street Foods Around the World: Pick out some snacks or meals for your next trip abroad!
- Do It Yourself: Try recreating some of these delicacies yourself by testing out some of these street food recipes.
Food Markets of the World
Visit a central market in any city and you’ll find the fundamental flavor palette of the local cuisine.
- Tokyo’s Fish Markets: Patrons at the Toyosu Fish Market used to be able to watch wholesale auctions and wander around as fish was sold, but now visitors must watch from a special observation floor. Though the old auction location has closed, food vendors in the Tsukiji fish market are still open.
- The Best of Barcelona: Barcelona is home to more than 39 different markets that showcase food as an integral part of the Catalan culture. Discover the top ten markets in the city, then get a taste of the sights, sounds, and excitement of La Boqueria, a colorful market on Barcelona’s famous La Rambla.
- Spices and More: Did you know cumin seed is the most used spice in the world? Learn more about spice markets around the globe and try making one of these deliciously spicy dishes at home. Then, discover how to recreate any world cuisine with just three spices!
Coffee and Tea Culture
From the simple Italian espresso shot to ornate Japanese tea ceremonies, learn how people around the world enjoy caffeination.
- Turkish Coffee: Did you know that traditional Turkish coffee is made over a pan of hot sand? Learn more about the science behind this liquid gold and find out how to read your own coffee grounds.
- Vietnamese Variations: French colonists introduced coffee to Vietnam (ca phe, as it is locally known), but the Vietnamese have adapted it into something truly unique with a style all its own. Different variations use yogurt, eggs, and even fruit!
- Japanese Tea Rituals: Read more about the step-by-step process of participating in a Japanese tea ceremony, then watch a moment of ritual tea-making.