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Puglia, Italy
Nestled in the heel of Italy’s boot, Puglia is a treasure trove of culinary delights, overshadowed by its more famous neighbours like Tuscany and Sicily. This region is a paradise for food lovers, offering authentic Italian cuisine without the crowds.
Osteria del Tempo Perso in Ostuni provides a deep dive into traditional Puglian cuisine, with dishes crafted from local, seasonal ingredients.
Masseria Il Frantoio in Ostuni is not just a place to stay; it’s an experience. This working farm produces olive oil, and the owners host dinners featuring the region’s traditional dishes paired with local wines.
George Town, Penang, Malaysia
George Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a melting pot of cultures, evident in its vibrant food scene. It’s a place where you can wander from one street food stall to another, each offering a taste of the city’s diverse culinary heritage.
For an unforgettable dining experience, visit Kebaya Dining Room where traditional Malaysian flavors meet modern cooking techniques.
The Blue Mansion offers not just luxurious accommodations but also a historical journey back in time, complemented by its Indigo restaurant that serves contemporary interpretations of traditional Malaysian dishes.
Oaxaca, Mexico
Oaxaca is the heart and soul of Mexican cuisine, known for its complex mole sauces and mezcal. The city’s food markets are a kaleidoscope of flavors, colors, and aromas, offering an authentic taste of Mexico’s culinary diversity.
Casa Oaxaca is a must-visit for gourmet travelers. The restaurant offers a fusion of traditional Oaxacan cuisine with a contemporary twist, making each dish a work of art.
Quinta Real Oaxaca enchants guests with its colonial architecture and offers an excellent base to explore the city’s rich culinary landscape.
Fez, Morocco
Fez is Morocco’s cultural and spiritual heart, a city where ancient traditions live on. It’s famous for its vibrant souks and street food, offering an array of aromatic spices and flavors that are uniquely Moroccan.
The Ruined Garden café and restaurant offers a tranquil escape from the bustling medina, serving traditional Moroccan dishes in a beautiful garden setting.
Riad Fes is a luxurious haven that combines traditional Moroccan architecture with modern comforts, offering cooking classes for guests interested in learning about Moroccan cuisine.
Chiang Mai, Thailand
Away from Thailand’s bustling tourist spots, Chiang Mai offers an authentic Thai experience. The city is known for its Lanna culture, unique cuisine, and the annual Yi Peng Lantern Festival.
Khao Soi Lam Duan is an unassuming eatery famed for its Khao Soi, a northern Thai coconut curry noodle soup that’s rich in flavor and history.
137 Pillars House is a boutique hotel that offers a blend of colonial and contemporary Thai elegance, with dining options that showcase the best of northern Thai cuisine.
Lyon, France
Often overshadowed by Paris, Lyon is considered the gastronomic capital of France. The city is famous for its bouchons—small, traditional Lyonnaise restaurants serving local fare in a friendly atmosphere.
La Mère Brazier, established in 1921, is a culinary institution in Lyon, offering refined French cuisine in an elegant setting.
Villa Florentine offers breathtaking views of the city and is home to the Michelin-starred restaurant Les Terrasses de Lyon, where you can indulge in the finest Lyonnaise cuisine.
Each of these destinations offers a unique culinary journey, far removed from the typical tourist trail. By choosing the road less traveled, gourmet travelers can uncover the authentic flavors and traditions that define a region’s cultural identity. Whether it’s dining under the stars in a Moroccan garden, savoring freshly made Khao Soi in the heart of Chiang Mai, or exploring the olive groves of Puglia, these experiences promise not just a meal, but a journey for the senses. So pack your bags (and your appetite) and set off on a routeless journey to the world’s hidden culinary gems.
