Food is a major factor for many travelers when choosing where to go. A delicious meal can offer a taste of local culture and reveal a region’s history. If you’re planning a trip, consider these 10 incredible destinations, each renowned for their exciting new restaurants and authentic dining experiences.
While newcomers to Scotland might often gravitate towards Edinburgh, Glasgow proudly stands out with a vibrant culinary scene that competes with its eastern neighbor. As Scotland’s largest city, it boasts 16 Michelin-starred restaurants. One standout is Crail Bruich in the West End, which earned its star with its dedication to seasonal British produce and is led by Lorna McNee, the only female chef in the country to hold this prestige.
Given its close proximity to the River Clyde, Glasgow’s menus are rich with seafood options. Kelp, a new addition to the Cowcaddens neighborhood as of March 2022, offers dishes like hand-dived Barra scallop ceviche and whisky-cured salmon, highlighting sustainable practices. Crabshakk is another local gem, known for its fresh lobster and oysters. For a unique experience, check out 111 by Modou, where chef Modou Diagne offers six- or 10-course tasting menus with a touch of Senegalese flair.
Toronto shines as one of the most diverse culinary destinations, recently gaining its first Michelin Guide, highlighting 74 restaurants and 27 different cuisines. The city’s multiculturalism is reflected in its food, with over half of its residents born outside Canada. Enjoy diverse offerings from places like Maha’s Egyptian brunch to PAI’s Northern Thai dishes, and Caribbean classics at Chubby’s Jamaican Kitchen.
In Singapore, culinary excellence continues to flourish with 52 Michelin-starred restaurants and numerous Bib Gourmand recommendations. New highlights include Euphoria, Jason Tan’s gastro-botanica 2.0 restaurant, and NAE:UM, a Korean concept. Plant-based diners will find innovation at Analogue, a sustainability-driven restaurant, and Love Handle, Singapore’s first plant-based butcher.
Beverly Hills, while famous for luxury, is witnessing a culinary evolution. New arrivals like The Hideaway offer upscale Mexican fare, reviving the area’s dining scene. Keep an eye out for iconic chef Daniel Boulud’s new venture in the coming months. Even casual spots like Ella, with its natural wine list, contribute to making the dining environment welcoming and community-focused.
Wilmington’s food scene is catching the attention of food lovers with its fresh seafood and innovative vegan offerings. Catch, directed by James Beard finalist Keith Rhodes, is a must-try, and The Green House is perfect for vegans. True Blue Butcher and Barrel offers an upscale experience combining a restaurant, whiskey bar, and butcher shop under one roof.
In Fort Collins, Colorado, food is as much a draw as nature. Highlights include Los Muertos Urban Kitchen & Cantina with its inventive tacos, and Jersey Cowboy for Jersey-style subs. Visiting the city’s breweries is a must, with New Belgium Brewing Co. being a top choice. For newcomers, Mythmaker Brewing brings something fresh to the Craft Beer Capital.
Cincinnati is transforming from a sports fan’s haven to a foodie’s paradise, particularly in the vibrant Over-the-Rhine neighborhood. This area is buzzing with the Findlay Market and exciting new venues like Element Eatery, featuring a range of international cuisines. Look for innovative new spots like Alara in the coming year as chefs return home to showcase their talents.
Phoenix is a hotspot for food enthusiasts, with new luxury resorts introducing a wave of restaurants. The Global Ambassador resort alone offers five distinct dining venues, while Cala Scottsdale and Tía Carmen showcase the best of locally-sourced and Southwestern flavors respectively.
In Duluth, Minnesota, visitors can enjoy both traditional meals and modern gastronomy. With its celebrated beers and ciders, events like the All Pints North festival are not to be missed. Restaurants like The Duluth Grill offer diverse, Instagram-worthy dishes, blending flavors from different cultures.
Grenada, as a culinary capital, offers a sensory delight with its abundant spices. Don’t miss “oil down,” the national dish, which is a flavorful stew simmered in coconut milk. For local charm, visit places like BB’s Crabback or Friday’s Restaurant & Bar, and for a modern twist, Asiatique and Rhodes blend Grenadian flavors with contemporary techniques.
