Food tours around the world: Discover another way to travel
Food tours play a crucial role in fostering community tourism, championing the circular economy, and facilitating profound, respectful cultural exchanges at various destinations. Engaging in gastrotourism involves more than just savoring flavors – it is an act of listening with your palate, symbolizing a commitment to understanding the roots and evolutions of customs and traditions in each locale. In essence, food acts as a dual role player, serving as both a gracious host and a connecting link – much like a master of ceremonies weaving together the past, present, and future. This philosophy is notably reflected in Iberostar hotels, where the dedication to providing honest food, that is authentic, conscious, and locally sourced cuisine, is apparent in both the sourcing of ingredients and the end result, consistently favoring seasonal, local, and responsibly obtained preparations.
What are food tours?
Food tours are travel itineraries intricately connected to culinary culture. They embody a travel philosophy centered around exploring new destinations through gastronomy, with a particular emphasis on firsthand experiences involving the sourcing of local ingredients and indulging in the distinctive dishes crafted from them. Food tours encompass a broad spectrum, incorporating visits to restaurants, bars, and wineries, as well as agricultural fields or manufacturing facilities specific to each region. Furthermore, when discussing these tour types, the scope extends beyond food to encompass beverages, encompassing wine in the context of wine tourism, along with water, beer, or spirits.
In essence, it involves exploring the world by immersing oneself in the gastronomic legacy of different destinations – relishing the finest narratives through their emblematic products and distinctive production techniques. Does this concept resonate with you? In the following sections, we'll delve into some of the finest food tours around the world, providing you with inspiration to craft your personalized vacations.
Food tours around Europe
A tour of the typical dishes (and neighborhoods) of Madrid
Embarking on food tours in Madrid is a time-honored tradition in the Spanish capital and try the most iconic local dishes. Indulge in delights such as ham croquettes, "callos a la madrileña", Madrid-style sea bream, or churros with chocolate for breakfast and snacks, accompanied by wines and vermouths boasting the Madrid Designation of Origin.
In the vibrant Malasaña neighborhood, a culinary adventure awaits with the legendary potato omelet at Bodega La Ardosa. Don't miss the calamari sandwich at Bar Postas near Plaza Mayor, and indulge in the delectable snails at Casa Amadeo. For the main course, consider trying some huevos estrellados (broken eggs) with green pepper, truffle, or ham at Los Rotos, Fismuler, or Casa Lucio. Explore different interpretations of Madrid-style stew, opting for the traditional versions at La Bola and Malacatín, or the veggie renditions at Distrito Vegano and El Perro Gamberro. Cap off your culinary journey by surprising your friends with Santo doughnuts as a delightful gastronomic souvenir.
The red tuna route in Cadiz
The culinary richness of Cadiz knows no bounds. To kick off your exploration, a visit to its coastal towns to delve into the local red tuna fishing offers a glimpse into the vastness of its culinary heritage. This industry stands as a key pillar of the Cadiz economy, sustaining numerous families whose livelihoods are intertwined with the sea. As spring arrives, notably from May onward, the red tuna migrates along the Atlantic coast, gracing the shores of Barbate, Zahara de los Atunes, Conil, Tarifa, and Chiclana.
Discover the Iberostar Selection Andalucía Playa hotel in Chiclana de la Frontera, situated on the frontline of La Barrosa beach. Within this haven, the Cataria restaurant, honored with a Repsol Sun in 2023, resurrects the tradition of maritime grilling, harking back to the transoceanic expeditions of the 19th century. Guided by chefs Pablo Vicari and Aitor Arregi, the restaurant showcases fresh tuna and other locally sourced fish and seafood, available by weight and by season. Indulge in vegetables from the Cadiz orchard, traditional desserts, and select meat dishes, all complemented by a wine list featuring twenty-five varieties. While in Andalusia, don't miss out on other food tours, including espetos on the beaches of Malaga, pink tomato orchards in Huelva, olive groves and olive oil in Jaén, or the distinctive bars of Seville.
Journey to the heart of Tenerife's guachinches
From the south of the Iberian Peninsula, we move to the heart of the volcanic island of Tenerife, where typical Canarian food is influenced by Spanish, African, and Latin American influences. Guachinches, indigenous eateries, serve timeless dishes such as Canarian sancocho, watercress stew, gofio, tollos, or wrinkled potatoes with mojo picón and green sauce. Accompanied by local wines and offered at affordable prices, these dishes uphold a commitment to preserving their culinary authenticity. Originating in the 17th century when the region's wine production gained prominence, vineyard owners and their families established stalls along the roads, providing not only wines but also homemade food to traders and travelers. Evolving over time into inns, some of the most cherished establishments capturing the essence of Tenerife include Mi Guachinche Casa Pedro, El Capitán, Romance, El Talegazo, and Los Toneles.
Wine tour in Mallorca
In Mallorca, the Mediterranean essence envelops everything, including the wine experience. The Balearic island boasts two designations of origin, Binissalem and Pla i Llevant. Additionally, the geographical indication "Vinos de Mallorca" identifies wines created exclusively with grapes cultivated in Mallorca and bottled there. Some grape varieties worked with include reds like Callet, Manto Negro, or Fogoneu, and whites like Prensal, Chardonnay, Macabeo, and Malvasía. To discover the wines of Binissalem, whose vines rise two hundred meters above sea level, nothing beats visiting the town of the same name, located in the region that also houses romantic municipalities such as Santa María de Camí, Consell, and Santa Eugènia, ideal for enjoying a romantic Mallorcan dinner. The Pla i Llevant denomination encompasses a total of thirteen wineries and supports seventy winemakers in the central and eastern parts of the island, scattered across charming towns like Manacor, Capdepera, Artà, or Sant Llorenç.
A Tour of Tapas in Barcelona
Food tours in Barcelona allows you to explore the main neighborhoods of the city, such as the Gothic Quarter, El Born, Poblenou, Poble Español, or El Raval. Among its lively streets, you'll find some of the oldest taverns in the Catalan capital, such as the popular Casa Almirall, dating back to 1860, or the bohemian Bar Marsella, which opened its doors in 1820 and was once frequented by artists and writers like Salvador Dalí and Ernest Hemingway. In the lists of the best patatas bravas are those of Bar Marcel Santaló, Senyor Vermut, and Bar del Pla, other typical taverns that are a must-visit. Pair them with vermouth or a beer to fully experience the culinary journey. In this complete guide to Barcelona, you'll find many more recommendations to enjoy your stay!
Food tours around the world
Mole Tasting in Riviera Maya and Cozumel
In Mexico, renowned for its diverse culinary landscape, the variety of mole dishes mirrors the multitude of community narratives intertwined with them. The knowledge spans approximately fifty distinct types, predominantly originating from the central regions of the country. Notable moles encompass the poblano, hailing from the state of Puebla, the red (common mole), and the green. Initially presented as an offering to the gods (the Maya presented it to their deities in sacred locales like the Pyramid of Chichen Itza), mole continues to be served today as a gesture of hospitality, aiming to make guests feel at home. A common thread among all moles is the prevalent use of Mexican spicy chili, which, with its numerous varieties, adds a fiery touch to various recipes.
At Iberostar hotels in Riviera Maya and Cozumel, where the finest of Mexican culinary traditions is showcased, you have the opportunity to savor a selection of these moles alongside other delectable Mexican dishes. The dining establishments within the Iberostar Playa Paraíso complex in Riviera Maya and the Iberostar Waves Cozumel hotel are crafted to provide a delightful experience for your taste buds. For instance, at the Mexican cantina Las dos Marías within the latter, you can also indulge in authentic offerings like tacos al pastor or cazuelita de cochinita pibil.
Aromas and spices in the markets of Marrakech
Embarking on another remarkable gastronomic journey worldwide is the one that leads through Marrakech, the city of enticing aromas, engaging both your palate and olfactory senses. This expedition revolves around exploring the vibrant markets of Morocco's capital, where an array of spices awaits. The expansive central souk commences at Jamaa el Fna Square, winding through numerous alleyways. Here, you can discover an extensive variety of aromatic herbs and spices and indulge in authentic Moroccan street food. Additionally, the spice market in the Rahba Kedima neighborhood, recognized by National Geographic as the third-best globally, offers an unparalleled experience. Following an active day in the city, the Moroccan restaurant Jawhara at the Iberostar Waves Club Palmeraie Marrakech hotel, a mere fifteen minutes from La Medina, beckons you to relish a delectable tajine, couscous prepared in the traditional manner, or sweet and savory delights like its chicken and almond pastilla.
Exploring the history of street food in Lima
The culinary history of Peru's street food is intertwined with the heritage of its indigenous communities. Inca vendors were already presenting their fare at mobile stalls, and as the Spanish arrived, these ancestral flavors melded with external influences, giving birth to modern Peruvian cuisine. Presently, street culture embodies a distinct way of approaching food and life, characterized by reasonable prices and accessibility for everyone. To fully embrace the emotions it evokes, wander through downtown Lima, the capital, and sample traditional bites like empanadas, anticuchos, papa a la huancaína, or causa limeña from street vendors. The Ortega & Huamán restaurant at the Iberostar Selection Miraflores hotel, helmed by renowned Peruvian chef Carlos Testino, seamlessly blends the best of Peruvian and Spanish culinary traditions. Offering delights such as ceviche, lomo saltado, or suspiro limeño, it promises to enrich your culinary expedition through Lima.
From wine to chocolate: Punta Cana and Puerto Plata through their ancestral grains
Dominican cuisine is a sensory explosion, offering a feast for the senses. In gastronomic tourism routes across this Caribbean nation, exotic fruits are a constant presence. From Punta Cana and beyond, iconic dishes like the National Flag or mangú with Three Hits grace breakfast and lunch tables. The plantain has evolved into a symbol of the country, while cocoa and coffee have been integral to its history for generations. Exploring family-owned coffee plantations becomes a reality through the Coffee Atabey, Coffee Jamao, and Monte Alto routes. At Iberostar Waves Costa Dorada in Puerto Plata, you can immerse yourself in the cocoa culture within a specially dedicated space. Through initiatives like these, Iberostar actively supports over 200 local farmers, contributing to the promotion of community tourism.
Tapas, rations, and music in Lisbon's Barrio Alto
Embarking on a tapas tour through Lisbon's Barrio Alto, the epicenter of nightlife and music, is a delightful proposition. Set to the enchanting sounds of fado or the beats of indie, rock, or techno (as venues cater to all tastes), the lively streets of Rua do Norte, Rua da Atalaia, and Rua do Diário host charming establishments like A Brasileira, Taberna do Bairro Alto, Artis wine cellar, or Petiscos. These venues offer a diverse array of Portuguese typical dishes, where staples like Bacalhau à Bras and grilled sardines always find their place. During your sojourn at the five-star urban haven, Iberostar Selection Lisboa, relish traditional dishes crafted from fish and seafood sourced responsibly at the Luz restaurant. Exploring Portugal by bike from Lisbon not only provides a deeper immersion into its cultural tapestry but also allows you to tailor your own gastronomic itinerary, combining cycling adventures with culinary delights across the country.
