How to Eat Like a Local in Any Country

One of the greatest joys of traveling is immersing yourself in a new culture—and there’s no better way to do that than through food. While tourist restaurants serve familiar dishes, eating like a local means discovering authentic flavors, hidden gems, and culinary traditions that define a place. Here’s how you can ditch the guidebooks and dine like a true local wherever you go.

Skip the Tourist Hotspots

The first rule of eating like a local? Avoid restaurants with menus in six languages or neon signs advertising “authentic” cuisine. Instead, wander a few streets away from major attractions and look for places filled with locals. A crowded hole-in-the-wall with no English menu is often a sign of great food.

Visit Markets and Street Food Stalls

Markets are the heart of a city’s food culture. Whether it’s a bustling morning market in Bangkok, a tapas bar in Barcelona, or a night market in Taipei, these spots offer fresh, affordable, and genuine local dishes. Don’t be afraid to point at what looks good—vendors are usually happy to serve curious travelers.

Learn a Few Key Phrases

Even basic food-related phrases can make a big difference. Knowing how to say “What do you recommend?” or “I’ll have the same as them” (while pointing at a local’s plate) can lead to unforgettable meals. Plus, making an effort in the local language often earns you extra hospitality.

Embrace the Unfamiliar

Eating like a local means stepping out of your comfort zone. Try that mysterious street food, sample an unusual spice, or order the regional specialty—even if you’re not entirely sure what it is. Some of the best culinary adventures come from saying “yes” to the unexpected.

Follow the Crowd (and the Aromas)

If you see a long line of locals waiting for food, join it. Whether it’s a legendary banh mi stand in Hanoi or a family-run pasta shop in Rome, locals know where to find the best bites. Similarly, let your nose guide you—the most enticing smells often lead to the most memorable meals.

Dine at Off-Peak Hours

In many cultures, meal times are sacred and deeply ingrained. Spaniards eat late dinners, Italians savor long lunches, and Vietnamese start the day with pho at dawn. Adjusting your schedule to match local customs ensures you get the freshest, most authentic experience.

Ask for Recommendations

Strike up conversations with taxi drivers, hotel staff, or friendly locals at cafés. Most people love sharing their favorite food spots, and these personal recommendations often lead to places you’d never find otherwise.

Savor the Experience

Eating like a local isn’t just about the food—it’s about the ritual. Whether it’s sharing mezze in Lebanon, slurping ramen in Japan, or enjoying a leisurely café au lait in Paris, embrace the pace and traditions of the place. Food is a window into culture, and the best meals are those that leave you with more than just a full stomach.

Next time you travel, skip the predictable and dive into the real flavors of your destination. After all, the best souvenirs aren’t trinkets—they’re the tastes and memories of meals shared like a local.