What to Eat in 15 Countries Before You Die (From Locals, Not Guides)

Some of my best travel memories started with a bite I didn’t expect. Ever tried something you couldn’t pronounce but still dream about years later? This guide isn’t about famous dishes you’ve seen on every travel show—it’s about the real stuff locals crave.

I’m talking comfort food, street bites, and recipes passed down through generations. We’re heading into 15 countries where the flavors tell a deeper story. Hungry for more than just a photo op? Let’s dig in.

1. Sushi in Japan

If you’ve ever visited Japan, you know sushi is an art form. Chefs train for years to perfect the balance of flavors and textures. Each bite offers a symphony of taste: fresh fish, vinegared rice, and a touch of wasabi.

In Tokyo, head to a local sushi bar where the chefs skillfully craft each piece in front of you. It’s a mesmerizing sight. The freshness of the fish is unparalleled here. Don’t miss trying toro, the fatty tuna, which melts in your mouth.

Sushi in Japan is a spiritual experience, connecting you to traditions centuries old.

2. Pad Thai in Thailand

It’s a flavor explosion waiting for you in Thailand. Pad Thai, the street food legend, is a must-try. You’ll find it sizzling on woks in bustling Bangkok streets. The sweet, salty, and tangy blend of tamarind, fish sauce, and lime will tantalize your taste buds.

Fresh ingredients are key, watch as bean sprouts, peanuts, and prawns are tossed before you. Are you ready for a local tip? Ask for extra lime to elevate the dish. Eating Pad Thai under the city lights is an unforgettable experience that connects you with the vibrant Thai culture.

3. Pizza in Italy

How can you visit Italy without indulging in real Italian pizza? Naples is the birthplace of pizza and a haven for food lovers. The thin, crispy crust topped with fresh tomato sauce, mozzarella, and basil is simplicity at its best. At a local pizzeria, you’ll witness the pizza being crafted and cooked in a wood-fired oven.

Did you know buffalo mozzarella is a regional specialty here? This adds a creamy texture that’s unforgettable. Enjoy each slice while imagining the centuries of tradition behind this culinary masterpiece.

4. Feijoada in Brazil

When in Brazil, make sure to try Feijoada. This hearty black bean stew, rich with flavorful cuts of pork, is Brazil’s national dish. Each spoonful tells a story of the country’s diverse culinary influences. It’s traditionally served on Wednesdays and Saturdays, often accompanied by rice, orange slices, and sautéed kale.

Are you looking for an authentic experience? Join Brazilians during a family gathering where Feijoada is often the centerpiece. The aroma alone, with its smoky and savory notes, is enough to entice you. Feijoada is a delicious way to experience Brazilian culture firsthand.

5. Poutine in Canada

Did you know Canada has a comfort food that’s loved by locals? Poutine is a dish you must try. Imagine crispy fries topped with squeaky cheese curds and warm gravy that melts everything into a delicious mess. Though it originated in Quebec, you’ll find poutine all over Canada.

Each bite is a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. For the best experience, visit a bustling diner in Montreal where locals gather. It’s not just food, it’s a Canadian ritual. Eating poutine is about indulging in the simple pleasures of life with a distinct northern twist.

6. Tacos in Mexico

Though there are many delicious foods in Mexico, tacos hold a special place. These handheld delights are a staple in Mexican cuisine. Picture soft corn tortillas filled with marinated meats, topped with onions and cilantro.

The burst of flavors is simply irresistible. Tacos are best enjoyed from a street vendor in Mexico City where you can savor authentic recipes. Are you up for an adventure? Try them with a splash of zesty lime and spicy salsa.

Tacos aren’t just food, they’re a way of life in Mexico. Experience this amazing street food that’s been perfected through generations.

7. Croissant in France

Imagine a morning in Paris with a flaky croissant and a cup of coffee. It’s a quintessential French experience you can’t miss. Croissants, with their buttery layers, are a staple in French bakeries. Each bite is light, airy, and melts in your mouth.

For the best croissants, visit a local boulangerie where they’re baked fresh every morning. Are you wondering about the secret? It lies in the quality of butter and the precise folding technique. Enjoying a croissant under the Parisian sky brings a sense of elegance and simplicity to your travels.

8. Tom Yum Goong in Thailand

If you’re a fan of spicy food, Tom Yum Goong is a must-try in Thailand. This hot and sour soup, brimming with shrimp, lemongrass, and mushrooms, is a flavor explosion. The broth is infused with fragrant herbs, creating a balance of spicy, sour, and savory notes. It’s a dish that awakens your senses.

In Bangkok, enjoy it at a bustling market alongside locals. Did you know it’s often considered the essence of Thai culinary art? Tom Yum Goong is more than a soup, it’s an experience that captures the vibrant spirit of Thailand.

9. Borscht in Russia

Though Russia is known for its cold weather, it also offers soul-warming dishes like borscht. This beetroot soup is a must-try. Each spoonful is a burst of earthy flavors, with a hint of tanginess from the vinegar. It’s usually served with a dollop of sour cream, adding a creamy contrast.

For an authentic experience, savor it in a cozy Moscow café during a chilly day. Are you curious about its origins? Borscht has a rich history, tracing back to Eastern European culinary traditions. Eating borscht in Russia is like embracing a warm, comforting hug.

10. Currywurst in Germany

Have you ever tried Currywurst in Germany? This iconic street food is a true Berlin favorite. Picture a sliced sausage smothered in curry ketchup, accompanied by crispy fries. The combination of flavors is intriguing – sweet, spicy, and savory all at once. It’s a dish that represents Germany’s culinary creativity.

You’ll find Currywurst stalls scattered throughout Berlin, each offering a slightly different version. Though simple, it’s a dish that brings joy and satisfaction. Eating Currywurst is about embracing Berlin’s vibrant street food culture with every tasty bite.

11. Kimchi in South Korea

When you think of South Korea, kimchi is a dish that immediately comes to mind. This fermented vegetable dish is a staple in Korean cuisine. Made from napa cabbage and radishes, it’s seasoned with chili powder, garlic, and ginger.

The result is a tangy, spicy, and slightly sour flavor. In Seoul, you’ll find kimchi served as a side dish with almost every meal. Are you interested in its cultural significance? Kimchi is considered a symbol of Korean identity.

12. Ceviche in Peru

If seafood is your thing, then ceviche in Peru is a must-try. This dish consists of fresh raw fish marinated in lime juice, with red onions and cilantro. The acidity from the lime ‘cooks’ the fish, creating a refreshing and tangy flavor.

Ceviche is best enjoyed on Peru’s coast where the seafood is incredibly fresh. Did you know it’s often served with corn and sweet potatoes? This adds a delightful contrast of textures. Eating ceviche is an experience that connects you to the ocean and the rich culinary traditions of Peru.

13. Paella in Spain

Though Spain offers many culinary delights, paella is a standout. Originating from Valencia, this dish is a feast for the senses. Imagine a pan filled with saffron-infused rice, topped with shrimp, mussels, and colorful vegetables. The aroma alone is intoxicating.

For the best paella, visit a local restaurant where it’s cooked over an open flame. Are you aware of its cultural roots? Paella reflects Spain’s agricultural heritage. Each bite is a blend of flavors and textures, transporting you to the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean.

14. Baklava in Turkey

How about a sweet treat? Baklava in Turkey is a must-try for dessert lovers. This pastry is a rich combination of layers of phyllo dough, filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with honey. Each bite is a perfect harmony of crispy, nutty, and sweet.

In Istanbul, baklava is an art form, made with precision and care. Are you curious about its history? Baklava is rooted in Ottoman cuisine, with a legacy that spans centuries. Savoring baklava is more than indulging in dessert, it’s tasting a piece of Turkey’s rich cultural tapestry.

15. Sauerbraten in Germany

Sauerbraten is a classic German dish you shouldn’t miss. It’s a pot roast, typically made from beef, marinated in a mixture of vinegar, water, and spices for several days. The result is tender meat with a tangy flavor that’s memorable. Usually served with red cabbage and dumplings, it’s a hearty meal that warms the soul.

For an authentic taste, visit a Bavarian inn where it’s prepared with tradition and love. Sauerbraten’s origins lie in Germany’s rich culinary history. Enjoying this dish is like taking a flavorful journey through time.