How To Find The Best Local Food While Traveling

One of the best parts of traveling is experiencing the joy of tasting all the food that you can during your trip!  There are few things better than exploring a new destination and trying various local delicacies.  For many of us though, it can be a challenge finding these foodie gems.  More often than not they're out of sight of the major tourist attractions, in order to preserve their authenticity.

Finding the best food in town is not impossible though.  There are various tips and tricks you can use to ensure you don't get stuck at a food joint in the middle of a beautiful holiday destination.  Here are some ideas to make sure you’re eating your way through your holiday with a smile on your face!

Eat at the home of a local

Believe it or not, there are many ways you can be invited into the homes of locals to enjoy a traditional meal that's likely to be a lot more delicious than what's offered in your hotel.  An example of this is a company called EatWith.  This business connects travelers from around the globe with local chefs who will invite you into their home to enjoy a meal with them. Of course you'll have to pay for your meal, but the food you'll be served will be more than worth it.

There are also companies such as Traveling Spoon that will help you connect with locals who can offer you a great meal as well as affordable accommodation options.

Research on local website and apps for the inside scoop

Many websites claim they're offering local tips that will take you off the beaten track.  However, many times they end up just directing you to a local restaurant that really doesn't serve authentic cuisine.  Instead, try looking on websites localized in the area you're visiting to help you find great affordable local food.

There are also a number of downloadable apps that let you ask locals what they think the best food spots are.  They provide information directly from someone who lives in the area who can give you solid advice on where to eat.  Apps like LocalEats and Spotted By Locals are very inexpensive and will most definitely help you navigate your way culinarily on your next trip.

Find a food specific tour

Food tours are a great way to multi-task while on vacation, allowing you to see the sights, learn about the culture, and enjoy the local food.  These tours are normally smaller and don’t need to take up your entire trip – many times it's just a one day excursion. They really are unique experiences and the hosts are great cooks!

If you would like to experience the food culture first hand, there's also the option of taking part in a cooking class.  I do this in every country I visit and have yet to regret this decision.  Most of the time the cooking lesson will also include a walk to the local market and some valuable education on where the ingredients come from.

Cooking classes will show you how to prepare, make and serve various local dishes, which you get to eat and enjoy at the end of the lesson.  Better yet, you can ask for the recipes so that you can take home some of the knowledge you’ve accumulated and cook for friends and family once you return.

Get advice on local food offerings

When I went to Bali, I asked a friend about the best accommodation options. She mentioned that Bali residents offer something called Homestays, kind of like a cheaper bed and breakfast where a family hosts you. There I had one of the most delicious banana pancakes ever, something I would not have experienced otherwise.

Once there, I asked the woman who was managing the homestay where she eats.  She said the locals eat at a “Warung” – local restaurants normally run by a family and usually attached to a homestay.  I visited Warungs twice a day after that and had the best Mie Goreng (fried rice) of my entire trip.  This is a prime example of finding food that is delectable and very affordable while you're on vacation.  Ask and you shall receive (the best food!)

I hope these tips help you eat like a local on your next exciting trip.