Travelling brings the joy to those whole to explore.. With that fun comes the joy of eating and trying new delicacies. Exploring new culture through food can be an experience of lifetime. Amidst exploring and enjoying the new flavours, one challenge that one must face is finding the authentic taste. Let’s be honest about it, when we go out on travelling we mostly end up eating at the hot spot of that particular place. We only end up exploring the famous restaurants. Something that you might have seen on Instagram or traveller’s vlogs. Whereas, the truth is that not all of these famous hotspot can give you the real taste of their culture. That is why it is important to identify the authentic local restaurants while traveling. If you are also someone who face the same problem then worry no more!
Why go authentic?
Well, the best reason lies in trying new things. What is the point of exploring if you stick to the same old routine of meals? Once you are on your taste testing journey then you must experience the best, isn’t it? And the only way to find the true taste is to explore the authentic restaurants and local areas. Finding these authentic and local restaurant lets you:
- Explore the real culture
- Find out the real taste
- Give you the best of local experience
- Support the small business
- Keep you away from overpriced traps of tourist attraction
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But how to identify the real authentic places?
Venturing to the new places brings an exciting experience. But if you are a food lover then your biggest challenge can be to find the authentic taste. Finding the places that will give you the true reflection of local cuisines. In the times when the places are packed with tourists, becoming hotspot for them, finding the real gem can be challenging. If you wish to explore the true food and dining experience then you must get into your explorer’s shoe. The trick is to find those hidden gems. But how? Here is how you can find the best authentic places and enjoy the true craftsmanship of culinary world:
Research well:
Before you start your taste expedition, it is important that you do your proper research. Find out what’s best known in the area. Check our social media, some travel websites or even food blogs. Try to join some travel or food groups to help you understand the area better.
Ditch the crowd:
Looking for best of authentic food? Then it is your sign to ditch the tourist crowd next time you go anywhere. Places around monuments, airports or popular places are mostly packed with tourist. These places are mostly overpriced as well. Not only this, these places even may drive you away from the authentic tastes.
Venture into local areas:
Try to explore the more local areas. Local places and local markets will let you find the true taste that you may been looking for. Try to walk a few blocks away from your stay. Venture into the less explored or less crowded areas.
Find the more focused menu:
Focus on the menu. Skip the menu that have heavy or way too sophisticated menu. These places stick to their daily routines instead of attracting customers with their heavy or special dishes. These small places serve the exceptionally well taste. With their small list of food items, you can explore the true gem of culinary world.
Keep an eye for customer base:
Look out for the kind of customers that show up at that place. If the customers are locals rather than the tourists then it is a big green flag. If the locals are choosing that place over the hyped tourist friendly places then there must a reason! Locals lining at a restaurant will be another green flag to look out for.
Local recommendations:
Try to join the food forums lead by the locals or talking to the locals around your stay. If you are looking for locally recommended places then go with the local’s recommendations. They provide information based on their tested places and food.
Avoid peak hours:
Try to avoid the rush hours. Those times when tourists may be on hunt for their best taste. Choose to dine during the off peak hours.
Catch up on reviews or websites:
Online reviews can help you a lot in finding the best of taste. But beware while doing so. Keep an eye for fake reviews that may be positing only positive comments. Try to find if the review is from a tourist or a local. Check on multiple platforms before making your mind.
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Conclusion
Well, with all said and stated, we are sure that we may have made it easier for you to find the best of local and authentic local restaurants while travelling. In simple and sleek words, try to find what is loved by locals not only by the tourist. Finding the best of authentic taste requires observations and research. With the mix of both, you may end up finding the hidden gems of culinary world. Try to talk to locals if you do not have time for the research. The local’s words will help a lot! Tasting the authentic taste will help you find the essence of the culture. The true taste treasure is hidden in the local streets. Uncover these treasures on your next travel!
FAQs:
Is it safe to experiment with food while travelling?
It depends on your travel goals. If you are someone who loves to explore and willing experiment with food then you must!
What sort of restaurants should I explore?
Choose the locally recommended places. These places will give you the raw taste of any culture.
What is better? Authentic restaurants or famous food chains?
For those looking to find the culinary gems and hidden taste then choose the authentic restaurants. If you are trying to explore the famous food brands then go with the popular food chains.
