Some couples travel to seek adventures. Others travel to learn history and culture. But those who love food above all else will prefer a holiday centred around food. If you are the latter, this list is for you. These top destinations for foodie couples will take you to some of the world’s best destinations to indulge in delectable cuisines with the opportunity to take up exciting culinary activities, from wine tasting to cooking lessons and more!
Argentina
Argentina’s culinary scene is steeped in culture and faraway influences, resulting in delectable cuisine that’s more than just the usual steaks. They not only taste incredible, but they also serve as a window into the local culture. In Argentina, food is highly cherished – something to be enjoyed with family and friends. If you’re taking your partner on a romantic culinary adventure in Argentina, you are in for a great time.
Asado is Argentina’s version of American barbeque. If there’s only one dish you must try in Argentina, it should be asado. Traditionally, the dish consists of beef, sausage, or chicken, grilled over an open flame. Asado is one of those dishes that are always present in local gatherings and celebrations. It’s also a common practice for Argentineans to add chimichurri sauce to their asado, something you should also try. It’s a salty and spicy rub made of different spices, including paprika, parsley, and garlic.
Couples who love pork ribs served with french fries should try the traditional dish, costillitas de cerdo a la riojana. The ingredients are cooked separately and assembled on a plate before serving. It consists of onions, peas, and peppers sauteed in butter, french fries, and a grilled pork rib with a sunny-side-up egg.
The Caribbean
With its gorgeous beaches and a host of luxury resorts, the Caribbean is one of the world’s most popular destinations for a romantic getaway. While most couples are here to frolic at the beach, the islands also offer the opportunity to indulge in some of the world’s most delectable meals. What’s more, there are amazing rental villas in the Caribbean, perfect for couples seeking a little luxury.
Barbados tops the list of Caribbean islands for foodies, and it’s easy to see why. The gorgeous island is famous for its classic island fare with heavy influences from the Bajan culture. It’s a place to enjoy Caribbean staples, such as fresh seafood and fish from the grill. Couples should try the island’s national dish called fried flying fish with a side of cou cou.
Jamaica is well-renowned for its jerk chicken or chicken, a spicy dish seasoned with hot peppers and slow cooked over a wood fire. It has become the island’s signature dish, and you’ll find many places to sample this delectable dish in Jamaica. Don’t forget to order refreshing Caribbean cocktails, a perfect accompaniment to mouth-watering jerk meats.
Italy
Italy may not be a vast country, but its food scene has become a classic favourite in many countries worldwide. And being one of the world’s most romantic destinations, Italy is the perfect destination for foodie couples on a romantic break. While there are many new destinations recognised for their food, Italy remains a mecca for foodies thanks to its world-renowned cuisine comprising a variety of regional dishes and recipes.
If you want to venture away from the usual tourist places, head to Le Marche, a region in the eastern part of the country, sitting between the Apennine Mountains and the Adriatic Sea. It’s one of the best places to sample authentic Italian dishes, especially vincisgrassi, a decadent lasagne dish with whopping 12 layers. The picturesque region’s favourite local ingredients include chicken livers, veal ragout, wild mushrooms, truffles, and Parmesan cheese.
If you want to visit a place where you can enjoy sunbathing on the Mediterranean coast while indulging in lip-smacking pasta, pizza, and gelatos, Sicily is where you should go. Famous for its pristine beaches, Sicily is also a haven for foodies, home to the country’s best beachside restaurants, where you can enjoy a romantic candle-lit seafood dinner.
Indonesia
If you don’t mind the long flight to Southeast Asia, why don’t you head to Indonesia for your romantic foodie adventure? Indonesian cuisine is a fusion of regional culinary traditions, with the local food scene relying heavily on street food. Since the country consists of many diverse islands, you should consider cruising around Indonesia. It’s perfect for couples who want to try local foods from different parts of the country.
Couples who want to enjoy a relaxing holiday by the beach should head straight to Bali. Home to world-class eateries serving traditional Balinese cuisines and international fares, the island paradise is a haven for foodies. Meat lovers should try the babi guling, a combination of fried pork mat, crispy pork skin, pork roll, and pork blood sausage. Cooked to perfection, the well-seasoned suckling pig’s juicy meat melts in your mouth with every bite.
Bali is also famous for its coffee and is a paradise for coffee lovers. Around the island, you’ll find cosy coffee shops and cafes serving delectable Balinese coffee. Don’t miss the chance to sample kopi luwak, a local coffee made from partially digested coffee cherries that have been eaten and defecated by civet cats.
Thailand
Everything in Thailand revolves around food, so it’s not a surprise that it’s considered one of the top foodie destinations in the world. Anywhere you go, you’ll smell the tempting aroma of Thai chillies and hear the sounds of sizzling barbecues and steaming broths.
To truly enjoy authentic Thai dishes, head to local markets like the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, Chatuchak Weekend Market, Wang Lang Market, and Chinatown. Aside from the famous pad thai, other delectable Thai dishes to try are tom yum goong (hot and sour Thai soup), pad see ew (stir-fried noodles), and som tam Thai (green papaya salad).
Consider booking a food tour with a local guide who will take you to the back alleys and local neighbourhood in search of authentic and mouth-watering Thai street foods.