Toronto,
24
July
2017
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23:11
Europe/Amsterdam

The Top 7 Food Destinations around the World

Culinary travel is the latest in destination decision making, and Booking.com, the global leader in connecting travellers with the widest choice of incredible places to stay, invites you on an adventure will satisfy even the fussiest of eaters! From the freshest sushi in Tokyo, to the legendary steak of Buenos Aires, waffles in Brussels and tasty Spanish tapas to the mouth-watering fusion of cuisines and cultures in Malaysia, there really is something for everyone.

Take a gastronomic journey around the world and visit the top seven destinations endorsed for food by Booking.com's global travellers[i], enjoy great stays and be sure to stop by the top foodie neighbourhood in each destination!

1. Hong Kong

Taking the top spot is Hong Kong, famous for its vibrant urban centre, skyscraper-studded skyline and of course the variety of foods on offer. Travellers will be in awe of the variety of dishes available, we recommend having a taste of dim sum, kau kee beef brisket, wonton noodles and poon choi (Chinese casserole). During your travels make sure you fully explore Hong Kong Island as Booking.com travellers endorsed this as the top neighbourhood in Hong Kong for food.

Where to stay: Sitting atop the prestigious Pacific Place Complex is the stunning JW Marriott Hotel Hong Kong, which boasts direct access to the Pacific Place Shopping Mall, an outdoor pool and spacious rooms with mountainous views, Hong Kong City views or overlooking the Victoria Harbour. Dine at the award-winning Man Ho Restaurant which serves authentic Cantonese cuisine, or the Flint Grill & Bar, JW Café, Dolce 88 or the Fish Bar which serves the fresh catch of the day.

2. Sao Paulo, Brazil

The city of Sao Paulo is a world-renowned foodie haven, from smart bistros to gourmet restaurants, there is something for everyone. Sample the nation’s signature dish, the Brazilian feijoada (black bean and meat stew) and take a trip through Itaim Bibi, which was voted as the top foodie neighbourhood in Sao Paulo by Booking.com travellers.

Where to stay: Hotel Unique boasts contemporary cuisine at the Skye Restaurant and bar, which is considered to be one of the best restaurants in Sao Paulo, not only with incredible food but outstanding views of the vibrant city.

3. Tokyo, Japan

The fusion of ultramodern meets traditional is widely regarded as Tokyo’s focal point; take in the neon-lit skyscrapers to historic temples and sample the nation’s diverse offering of foods. Its top restaurants have accrued more Michelin stars than both Paris and New York combined and its signature cuisine of sushi continues to take the world by storm. Be sure to visit Chiyoda Ward, which is known to be a top foodie neighbourhood in Tokyo.

Where to stay: With nine restaurants to choose from the Mandarin Oriental Tokyo is a culinary delight. The jewel in their crown is the Michelin starred Tapas Molecular Bar. An intimate dining experience with only eight seats, this exclusive experience celebrates the art of innovative molecular cuisine with bite sized dishes in the traditional sushi bar, right before your eyes.

4. Athens, Greece

Discover Greece’s culinary revolution of Athens’ street food and stop by Plaka, which was voted the top foodie neighbourhood in Athens by Booking.com travellers. Be sure to sample the capital’s signature dishes, Souvlaki (grilled meat and vegetable skewers) and Koulouri (tasty sesame bread rings).

Where to stay: Housed in a neoclassical building is the beautiful Alice Inn; centrally located in the heart of Plaka, guests can take a short stroll to the Syntagma Square where they can find an array of restaurants, bars and cafes. Wake up to daily fresh breakfasts, or prepare your own meal in the common kitchen, while basking in the sunshine on the ground-floor terrace.

5. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Kuala Lumpur is best known for its modern skylines, glass and steel-clad skyscrapers, sandy white beaches, lush rainforests and colourful food-stall-lined streets. Travellers will love the fusion of contemporary meets traditional and the beautiful mixture of Malay, Chinese, Indian and European cultures and cuisines. Booking.com travellers have endorsed Mid Valley as the top foodie neighbourhood in Kuala Lumpur.

Where to stay: Experience world-class service at The Gardens – A St Giles Signature Hotel & Residences, Kuala Lumpur, located in Mid Valley and boasting elegant accommodation, infinity pool, fitness centre and stunning city views. Guests will be spoilt for choice from the hearty buffet breakfast served at The Spread, or opt for fine-dining at Sage featuring an open kitchen, or try a refreshing cocktail (or two) at the lobby and pool bars.

6. Melbourne, Australia

Known for its gorgeous beaches, sun-kissed city centre and vibrant bars and restaurants along the Yarra River, Melbourne is the place to be. Embrace the true Aussie lifestyle and tuck into delicious barbeque dishes with friends and family while watching the timeless sunsets pass by. Take a trip to South Yarra which was endorsed as the top foodie neighbourhood in Melbourne by Booking.com travellers.

Where to stay: The boutique hotel of Art Series - The Olsen is located in the heart of South Yarra on Chapel Street, which is just a few minutes’ walk from an array of dining venues, entertainment hotspots and shopping centres. Take a dip in the hotel’s unique glass bottom swimming pool, relax in the day spa and then round off your evening with a delicious dinner at the contemporary onsite restaurant and bar.

7. Bangkok, Thailand

Go on an adventure and sample the exotic street food stalls of Bangkok. Take a culinary exploration and try the capitals signature dishes of chicken satay, sukiyaki (sliced beef soup), khao gang (curried rice) or gai yang (grilled chicken). Along your travels make sure to take a trip to Siam, which was voted as the top foodie neighbourhood in Bangkok.

Where to stay: Travel like a local and stay at the cosy Villa Mungkala guest house in SIam, offering beautiful views from the terrace, free bicycle hire to explore the surrounding areas and private bathrooms. Ideally located, guests can take a short walk to the Temple of the Golden Mount and Khao San Road, where an array of nightlife hotspots, bars, music and dining venues can be found. Be sure to check out Max’s Magical Thai Food, Susie Wong’s Beer and Buns and Brick Bar.