Tasting Local Life: How I Discover the Best Food When Traveling

For me, the joy of travel starts at the table — a plate of something delicious from a street food stall, a cozy corner café, or a family-run restaurant that locals swear by.

While some travelers chase iconic cafés or trendy hotspots, my most memorable bites have come from leaning on a handful of trusted guides. They’ve steered me to places that locals love — spots that not only feed you well but tell a story about the destination.

My Foodie Travel Toolkit

Over the years, I’ve built a set of go-to resources that help me uncover flavors worth crossing an ocean for. I think of it as my Foodie Travel Toolkit — a mix of expert lists and local wisdom that works anywhere in the world.

James Beard Awards (U.S.)
Known as the “Oscars of the food world,” the James Beard Awards celebrate excellence in American cooking. Their nominees often represent chefs who are deeply rooted in their communities, making them a reliable starting point for meals with meaning.

Eater’s Annual Restaurant & Travel Food Guides
Eater’s yearly lists highlight standout restaurants and chefs, while their Travel Guides go further with maps of recommended spots and nearby must-sees. Perfect for planning a day of sightseeing that flows right into a great dinner.

Michelin Guide (Global)
When I’m abroad, the Michelin Guide is my trusty compass. Not every spot in the guide has a star — even a mention is a badge of quality. The app makes it easy to find anything from fine dining to a hidden bistro.

Ask the Locals
Lists and apps are helpful, but the best discoveries often come from conversations. I’ll ask a shopkeeper, a guide, or even a fellow traveler where they like to eat. Sometimes that question leads to being welcomed at someone’s family table — the ultimate foodie experience.

My Research Process

Once I’ve gathered a short list, I add my own steps to make sure I’m tasting the heart of a place:

• Check the buzz: I skim neighborhood blogs, alt-weeklies, or forums to see what locals are saying.

• Map it out: I drop pins on a map to see which spots naturally fit my route.

• Mix high and low: I love balancing a splurge-worthy dinner at a Michelin or Beard nominee with a simple café or taco stand the locals adore.

• Follow trusted voices: Experts like Evan Kleiman of NPR’s Good Food have shaped my travels. Her deep love of Italy, for example, led me to some unforgettable pasta in Rome.

A Personal Favorite in Rome

One of my happiest food memories comes courtesy of Evan Kleiman. She once mentioned her favorite spot in Rome for cacio e pepe: Flavio al Velavevodetto in the Testaccio neighborhood. I made a note, stopped by on my next trip, and the pasta was perfection. Now it’s a must-stop every time I visit the Eternal City.

Why This Works

Food isn’t just about filling up — it’s about connection, culture, and memory. By blending expert lists with local advice, I’ve uncovered flavors that became the highlight of my journeys. Each plate tells part of a story, and often, those tastes are what I remember most vividly long after the trip ends.