If you believe the best way to explore a destination is through its food, you're in the right place. From legendary street eats to world-class fine dining, every country has its own must-try dishes that define its culture and history. This ultimate foodie bucket list covers 50 iconic food experiences you need to have at least once in your lifetime.

So, grab your passport-and your appetite-and start planning your next culinary adventure!

Asia

Authentic Sushi in Tokyo: Experience sushi as it was meant to be-crafted by master chefs at Tokyo’s famous Tsukiji Outer Market or a Michelin-starred omakase restaurant.
Pho in Hanoi, Vietnam: A steaming bowl of fragrant pho, served with fresh herbs and lime, is a must when visiting Vietnam’s capital.
Traditional Indian Thali: A thali is a variety of curries, bread, rice, and chutneys on a single plate. Try it in Mumbai or Jaipur for the most authentic experience.
Dim Sum in Hong Kong: From BBQ pork buns to har gow (shrimp dumplings), a dim sum brunch in Hong Kong is a must.
Best Street Food in Bangkok: Pad Thai, mango sticky rice, and grilled satay skewers make for an unforgettable foodie experience.
Peking Duck in Beijing: This crispy, roasted duck dish dates back centuries and is a must-try when visiting China’s capital.
Kimchi and Korean BBQ in Seoul: Grilled meats paired with kimchi and banchan (side dishes) make Korean BBQ a true culinary experience.
Laksa in Malaysia: This spicy coconut noodle soup is a street food staple in Kuala Lumpur and Penang.
Biryani in Hyderabad, India: Hyderabad’s biryani is legendary, packed with aromatic spices, tender meat, and fluffy basmati rice.
Bubble Tea in Taiwan: Born in Taiwan, bubble tea is a must-try for any foodie-chewy tapioca pearls, sweet milk tea, and endless flavor variations.

Europe

Pasta in Rome: Cacio e pepe, carbonara, and amatriciana - when in Rome, there’s no such thing as too much pasta.
Pizza Margherita in Italy: The ultimate Neapolitan pizza, made with San Marzano tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil, and a charred, wood-fired crust.
Croissant in Paris: A flaky, buttery croissant from a Parisian bakery is simple yet delicious.
Moussaka in Greece: A Greek casserole layered with eggplant, spiced meat, and creamy béchamel, baked until golden and delicious.
Tapas in Barcelona: Patatas bravas, jamón ibérico, and pan con tomate-Spanish tapas are best enjoyed with a glass of local wine.
Swiss Fondue in the Alps: Dipping bread into bubbling cheese fondue while overlooking the Swiss Alps? Pure perfection.
Belgian Waffles in Brussels: Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and topped with chocolate or fruit-Belgian waffles are a must-try.
Pierogi in Poland: These delicious dumplings, stuffed with potato, cheese, or meat, are a Polish staple.
Fish and Chips in London: Crispy battered fish with golden fries and a side of malt vinegar-it’s a British classic for a reason.
Smørrebrød in Denmark: These open-faced sandwiches, topped with seafood, meats, and spreads, are a staple in Danish cuisine.
Goulash in Hungary: A rich, paprika-spiced stew, goulash is the ultimate comfort food in Hungary.
Pastel de Nata in Portugal: These creamy, flaky egg tarts are a must when visiting Portugal.
Croque Monsieur in France: A rich and crispy French ham and cheese sandwich, topped with creamy béchamel sauce and broiled to perfection.
Pintxos in San Sebastian: Historically, pintxos were simple slices of bread topped with ingredients like anchovies, olives, or cheese, secured with a toothpick. Today, pintxo bar hopping is a cornerstone of Basque culture.

North America

Classic New York Bagel: New York bagels are elite. Go for a classic lox and cream cheese on an everything bagel.
Authentic BBQ in Texas: Smoky, slow-cooked brisket with all the fixings - Texas BBQ is a rite of passage for any foodie.
Poutine in Montreal, Canada: Golden fries topped with cheese curds and smothered in gravy - poutine is the ultimate Canadian comfort food.
Lobster Rolls in Maine: A buttery, toasted bun filled with fresh lobster meat. Try Bite Into Maine.
Best Tacos in Mexico City: From al pastor to carnitas, tacos in Mexico City are on another level.
Jambalaya in New Orleans: A bold, flavorful mix of sausage, seafood, and rice, Jambalaya is a Cajun classic.
Key Lime Pie in Florida: A slice of tangy, creamy key lime pie is the perfect sweet treat in the Sunshine State.
Deep-Dish Pizza in Chicago: Thick, cheesy, and loaded with toppings…Chicago-style deep-dish pizza is a must.
Maple Syrup on Pancakes in Canada: Real Canadian maple syrup drizzled over fluffy pancakes? A breakfast dream.
Philly Cheesesteak in Philadelphia: Thinly sliced beef, gooey cheese, and a soft hoagie roll. Try Pat’s or Geno’s.
California Burrito in San Diego: A San Diego staple, this burrito is packed with carne asada, crispy fries, cheese, guacamole, and sour cream for the ultimate bite.

South America

Argentine Asado (BBQ): Grilled meats, chimichurri, and a glass of Malbec - an asado in Argentina is a must.
Ceviche in Peru: Fresh seafood marinated in citrus juice and spices - Peruvian ceviche is light, refreshing, and filled with flavor.
Brazilian Feijoada: A rich, slow-cooked black bean and pork stew, best enjoyed with rice and orange slices.
Empanadas in Argentina: These flaky pastries, filled with meat, cheese, or veggies, are a street food staple.
Arepas in Colombia: These corn cakes, stuffed with cheese or meats, are a staple in Colombian cuisine.

Africa & The Middle East

Moroccan Tagine in Morocco: A slow-cooked stew packed with spices, vegetables, and tender meat.
Koshari in Egypt: A flavorful mix of lentils, rice, pasta, and crispy onions.
Mezze in Lebanon: A spread of small dishes like hummus, baba ganoush, falafel, and tabbouleh.
Bunny Chow in South Africa: A spicy curry served inside a hollowed-out bread loaf.
Injera & Doro Wat in Ethiopia: Combines a spongy flatbread (injera) with a rich, spicy chicken stew (doro wat).

Oceania

Meat Pie in Australia: A flaky pastry filled with rich, savory meat.
Hokey Pokey Ice Cream in New Zealand: A creamy vanilla treat filled with crunchy honeycomb toffee.
Traditional Māori Hangi in New Zealand: A traditional Māori Hangi is a slow-cooked feast where meats and vegetables are steamed underground using heated stones.
Tim Tams in Australia: iconic chocolate-covered biscuits with a luscious, creamy filling, often enjoyed with the famous "Tim Tam Slam."
Pavlova in New Zealand: A light, airy meringue dessert topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit.

The Ultimate Foodie Bucket List: 50 Must-Try Culinary Experiences Around the World