Europe is a foodie’s dream destination, offering cities full of classic dishes and culinary innovations that can turn every meal into a memorable experience.
Europe has a multitude of cities perfect for foodies PHOTO Archive
From prepared classics to new, innovative cuisine, the experience of eating in Europe is always a delight, and the following list includes some of the best places to eat on the continent, according to msn.com
Rome, Italy
From local pasta-based dishes like carbonara, amatriciana and cacio e pepe, to pizza, roasted artichokes, decadent maritozzi (cream-filled buns) and fried treats called suppli, Rome is a foodie’s paradise. Here you can have a memorable experience both in a modest trattoria and in a luxury restaurant, with the personality of the city found in almost every plate.
London, England
Along with New York, London has the best chance of being considered the “capital of the world” and, like NYC, you can eat food from all over the world here. From Indian and Sri Lankan cuisine to Chinese, Polish and French cuisine, the city is a veritable treasure trove of international culinary delights. In addition, there are exceptional traditional British dishes such as fish & chips, pie & mash, beef wellington and small snacks served at afternoon tea.
Lyon, France
Paris may get the most attention, but foodies in the know praise Lyon just as passionately. Perhaps no other European city is as closely linked to a specific style of restaurant as Lyon is to its bouchons. These modest eateries are famous for their hearty dishes, served in an intimate atmosphere and at affordable prices. Some of the local favorites include rosettes (dry sausages), quenelles de brochet (fish dumplings in a creamy sauce) and paillasson Lyonnais (a dish made from thick slices of grated potato).
Vienna, Austria
From grand cafés serving more combinations of coffee, milk and cream than you could ever imagine, to crispy and juicy schnitzel and some of the best street sausages in Europe, Vienna is a foodie’s dream come true. Not to mention the wine grown within the city limits (Vienna is the only European capital with this distinction) and the range of cakes and pastries so beautiful you’ll be hard-pressed to cut them.
San Sebastian, Spain
From narrow streets lined with pintxo bars (the local version of tapas), serving local cider and wine (don’t leave without trying Txakoli, a light sparkling wine), to restaurants run by Michelin-starred chefs, this city has it all be better for food lovers. Its reputation has been growing for more than a decade, so hurry to get there before it gets too crowded.
Bologna, Italy
Home of Bolognese sauce (also known as ragù), mortadella and tortellini, this city is truly a foodie’s paradise. The best thing about Bologna is probably the fact that it is in the heart of the Emilia-Romagna region, the home of Parmesan and Modena balsamic vinegar, which, tasted at home, can change your perception of life.
Ljubljana, Slovenia
Slovenia’s fairytale capital is the ideal place to experience the country’s growing gastronomic reputation. Proof? The first Michelin guide dedicated to Slovenia was published in 2020, and Slovenia was designated the European Region of Gastronomy in 2021. Here you can taste from regional Slovenian dishes to excellent Japanese food, all paired with quality local wine.
Berlin, Germany
One of Europe’s most exciting up-and-coming culinary destinations, Berlin can wow you with falafel and currywurst one night and innovative Asian and American fare the next. The German capital is also known as one of the best places in Europe for vegetarian and vegan food. And when it comes to craft beer, you should know that Stone Brewing, legendary in California, has opened a European branch in Berlin.
Seville, Spain
Start the day with tomato toast, continue with cold salmorejo soup for lunch and end the day with jamón ibérico or espinacas con garbanzos, the latter of which will change your opinion of chickpeas for good. Of course, all these delicious dishes must be accompanied by a glass of local sherry.
Stockholm, Sweden
While foodies raved about Copenhagen’s New Nordic cuisine for much of the 21st century, Stockholm was largely in the shadows. This is no longer the case. Having been named the European Capital of Gastronomy in 2023, the city continues to impress with a mix of innovative Swedish cuisine, filled with ingredients foraged from the country’s forests, and refined reinterpretations of classics such as meatballs and seafood.
Turin, Italy
Savvy foodies head north to avoid the crowds and enjoy the sensational food in and around Turin. Located in northwestern Italy, Turin is the capital of the Piedmont region, and this elegant city is a great place to sample specialties from around the area. Some of the local delicacies include polenta, risotto, bagna cauda (a thick anchovy and garlic sauce), cheeses and truffles.
Lisbon, Portugal
Portugal’s capital has always been a well-kept secret for foodies, and its growing popularity as a destination has not affected this. Here you can enjoy decadent custard tart, fresh grilled fish (best in a modest seaside café), countless pastries and local wine.
