Top Dining Destinations for 2020

Our travels revolve around food.

This is not just an Instagram fantasy; it’s reality. Recent studies indicate that most travelers prioritize food when planning their trips, even before accommodations. With more people traveling than ever — a record 1.4 billion international trips taken last year — the craving for culinary adventures is insatiable. While the charming cafes of Paris, izakayas of Tokyo, shawarma stalls of Tel Aviv, and tasting menus of Mexico City remain perennial favorites, we’re constantly seeking fresh experiences to satisfy our appetites, passports, and social media feeds.

That’s why we’ve compiled Dinogo Travel’s inaugural list of the most vibrant food cities in the world right now. These 19 essential destinations boast food scenes that are currently captivating appetites like never before. From Pristina, where chefs are forging a new national identity through cuisine, to Lagos, where the local art and music buzz is influencing the culinary landscape; from Marseilles, breaking free from its bouillabaisse-only reputation to become France’s culinary hotspot; to Milwaukee, which is gearing up for the Democratic National Convention, these are the places you should dine at now.

To create this list, we tapped into Dinogo’s extensive network of culinary experts worldwide, gathering insights on where they’re eager to eat. Our editors then conducted thorough research, incorporating local feedback and our own travel experiences, to curate a selection of cities that showcase the diverse culinary delights available in 2020. Accompanying this list are 19 maps — crafted by locals for travelers — highlighting must-visit restaurants, cafes, street vendors, bars, coffee shops, and market stalls in these edible havens. With this wanderlust guide for the coming year, it’s time to redeem those travel miles and savor your next meal. Your next adventure awaits.

Dinogo’s Dining Destinations for 2020

George Town, Malaysia | Marrakech, Morocco | Malmö, Sweden | Richmond BC, Canada | Gyeongju, South Korea | Milwaukee, Wisconsin | Akko, Israel | Marseille, France | Lagos, Nigeria | Nagoya, Japan | Monterrey, Mexico | East Village, New York City | Pristina, Kosovo | Porto, Portugal | Cartagena, Colombia | Hobart, Australia | Oakland, California | Cork, Ireland | Santiago, Chile

George Town, Malaysia

WHAT:

Arguably the finest dining spot in all of Southeast Asia, this is the capital of Malaysia’s Penang state.

WHY:

George Town showcases a rich tapestry of culinary influences, including Malay, regional Chinese, Indonesian, South Indian, British, and unique fusions like Baba-Nyonya cuisine, which blends indigenous and Chinese culinary traditions. A typical day here might kick off with a Malay-style breakfast of nasi lemak, rice steamed in coconut milk and paired with sambal; for lunch, enjoy a banana-leaf thali, an unlimited platter of South Indian delights.

For dinner, indulge in Chinese-style fried noodles or explore the bustling hawker centers, sampling a myriad of local specialties. The town is perfect for a food crawl, with many of the best dishes available from small stalls or mobile carts, allowing you to savor multiple flavors in one meal, often for less than $3.

Dining in George Town feels like a journey back in time, thanks to elder chefs who adhere to traditional recipes and age-old cooking methods. While these experiences aren’t entirely new, they are increasingly rare. With aging vendors and waning hawker centers, coupled with the pressures of gentrification and tourism, the unique charm of George Town is something to relish now, before it fades away.

— Austin Bush

WHERE TO EAT: The 17 Must-Visit Restaurants in George Town, Malaysia

Essential Information

• Currency: Malaysian ringgit (1 USD = 4 ringgit)
• Best Time to Visit: February to April, after the New Year rush and before the May rains.
• Dish to Try: Char kway teow, stir-fried rice noodles with egg, seafood, Chinese sausage, and chili paste.

Marrakech, Morocco

WHAT:

A historic and often romanticized North African center, standing at the crossroads of cultures for centuries. The native Amazigh, Arab settlers, and European traders have all contributed to the vibrant, architecturally stunning city that is evolving to meet modern demands while cherishing its ancient traditions, including its renowned sweet-savory-spiced cuisine.

WHY:

Every Moroccan will tell you that the finest Moroccan dishes are found in local homes. This has historically made it challenging for visitors to dine in Marrakech. However, as North African cuisine gains international acclaim, an increasing number of culinary tourists are flocking to Marrakech. Consequently, new, high-quality restaurants offering authentic Moroccan fare are opening regularly.

While it's still uncommon to see many locals enjoying tagine and couscous in restaurants, options for visitors to savor traditional dishes have greatly improved. Additionally, a surge of new establishments serving pizza, burgers, sandwiches, and coffee has emerged, catering to a rising demand for international street food. With enhanced infrastructure, growing tourism, and its recent recognition as Africa’s inaugural Capital of Culture, now is the ideal time to explore and taste Marrakech.

— Amanda Ponzio-Mouttaki

WHERE TO DINE: The 22 Must-Visit Restaurants in Marrakech, Morocco

Essential Information

• Currency: Moroccan dirham ($1 USD = 10 dirham)
• Best time to visit: Autumn provides mild weather ideal for exploring the medina.
• Signature dish: Mechoui, a whole sheep roasted in traditional underground clay pits.

Malmö, Sweden

WHAT:

A vibrant Swedish city located under an hour from Copenhagen, known for its unique and quirky character that outshines its Danish neighbor.

WHY:

A 40-minute train journey across a stunning bridge, famously featured in the TV series The Bridge, takes you from Denmark to Sweden. It may seem counterintuitive, especially with Copenhagen, the heart of New Nordic cuisine, so nearby. However, just because they're close doesn't mean they are alike.

Malmö has nurtured a generation of young chefs eager to showcase the fresh, high-quality ingredients from the Skåne region's organic farms, thanks to its favorable climate. The nose-to-tail philosophy, pioneered by the innovative restaurant Bastard, flourishes here, blending with the city’s laid-back vibe and multicultural influences to create remarkable dishes.

For enthusiasts of natural wine, the trip is undoubtedly worthwhile, as Malmö boasts an extensive selection of unique wines and hidden gems at various Mytouries. Despite its modest population of 300,000, the city features a remarkable array of unconventional bars and restaurants, each with its own distinct character that sets it apart from neighboring locales.

— Alisa Larsen

WHERE TO EAT: The 22 Essential Restaurants of Malmö, Sweden

Essential Information

• Currency: Krona ($1 USD = 9.50 kronor)
• Best time to visit: Experience the long, beautiful days of Swedish summer.
• Must-try: Savor natural wine at one of the city's vibrant, multifunctional restaurants.

Richmond, Canada

WHAT:

Richmond is a suburban island city near Vancouver, British Columbia, known for having the highest percentage of East Asian residents in North America, as well as boasting the largest Asian night market on the continent.

WHY:

This is undoubtedly the top destination for Chinese cuisine in North America. While locals have celebrated Richmond's food scene for years, it’s now gaining international recognition. The culinary offerings here represent a blend of traditional dishes and hyper-local flavors from residents with ties to Hong Kong, Taiwan, and mainland China, along with innovative creations from Canada's emerging Asian-Canadian chefs who are redefining the cuisine.

Patrons can enjoy a rich mix of classic old-world cooking paired with the inventive Asian-Canadian interpretations from Richmond's new generation of chefs, transforming the local food landscape from traditional Chinese fare into a diverse experience that captures the essence of Asian cuisine across time in North America.

— Hillary Eaton

WHERE TO EAT: The 22 Essential Restaurants of Richmond, Canada

Need to Know

• Currency: Canadian dollar ($1 USD = 1.30 CAD)
• When to visit: Late summer offers ideal weather with clear skies and warm temperatures in British Columbia.
• Must-try: The dim sum here is unmatched anywhere else on the continent.

Gyeongju, South Korea

WHAT:

Once the capital of the Silla dynasty (57 B.C. to A.D. 935), Gyeongju is now an architectural gem, boasting remarkably preserved temples, palaces, burial mounds, and other structures of great cultural and historical importance.

WHY:

Gyeongju, located in the southeast, is aptly known as 'the museum without walls.' Unlike many historic sites in Korea that have succumbed to war or time, Gyeongju stands as a remarkable exception. Its rich history has made it a popular destination for Korean tourists for many years, yet it remains relatively unexplored by international visitors.

Dining in Gyeongju offers a unique journey through time — indulge like a Silla royal with recipes that have been meticulously preserved over centuries, crafted by chefs skilled in traditional methods, or savor the simplicity of Korean temple cuisine, featuring fresh vegetables, prepared by Buddhist monks under the beautiful tile roofs. The rise in domestic tourism has also attracted innovative young chefs who blend local ingredients with contemporary techniques, enhancing Korean flavors. With a plethora of fried chicken stands and cold noodle shops alongside its historical monuments, now is the perfect time to experience the essence of old Korea in Gyeongju.

— Summer Sun-Min Lee

WHERE TO EAT: The 17 Essential Restaurants of Gyeongju, South Korea

Need to Know

• Currency: Won ($1 USD = 1,200 won)
• When to visit: Visit in spring for the stunning cherry blossoms (around April); don’t miss out on the banchan and garlicky fried chicken while you're there.
• Must-try: Temple cuisine, featuring small vegetarian dishes available at both restaurants and Buddhist temples.

Milwaukee, Wisconsin

WHAT:

This blue-collar Midwestern town, nestled along the shores of Lake Michigan and often overshadowed by Chicago, is finally stepping into the spotlight.

WHY:

With the Democratic National Convention arriving in Milwaukee in 2020, taking place at the modern Fiserv Forum—home to NBA MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Bucks—city officials are considering extending bar hours to 4 a.m. and determining how many more hotels downtown may be necessary (perhaps seven?). This moment feels like Milwaukee is on the verge of developing its own unique districts reminiscent of Portland or Austin, and enjoying its time in the national spotlight.

Milwaukee has always been known for its cheese, beer, and vibrant bar scene. However, 2020 may mark a peak moment for the city, reflecting years of revitalization in the Rust Belt. Whether it’s the optimism stemming from the opening of numerous local breweries or the exciting food scene featuring everything from pierogies to high-end cuisine, Milwaukee offers a rich culinary landscape for everyone to explore.

—Todd Lazarski

WHERE TO EAT: The 38 Essential Restaurants of Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Need to Know

• When to visit: Summer draws tourists to Milwaukee for a good reason.
• Must-try: Vanguard’s signature Milwaukee-style bratwurst — a house-made pork and beer sausage topped with curds, cheddar, and cheese whiz.

Akko, Israel

WHAT:

An ancient port city in Israel known by several names — Akko (Hebrew), Acre (English), and Akka (Arabic) — located on the Mediterranean coast about an hour northwest of Tel Aviv.

WHY:

Winding cobblestone streets traverse a historic city recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2001, featuring ancient walls, fortresses, castles, mosques, and synagogues. Akko’s culture is a rich blend of Jewish, Arab, Muslim, Christian, and Bahá’í influences, where diverse ethnic and religious communities live harmoniously intertwined, unlike in many other regions of the country.

This convergence significantly enhances the local food scene, bustling on nearly every corner. Enjoy coffee infused with cardamom and Yemenite hawaij, countless global versions of hummus, and seafood fresh from the Mediterranean. Exceptional dining experiences range from street-side bakeries serving sweet kanafeh to the celebrated restaurant Uri Buri, helmed by a “bearded chef” passionate about oceanic flavors. In this walkable city, olives, dates, tahini, za’atar, fresh fish, and exotic herbs unite, where history intersects with modernity and land meets sea.

— Keren Brown

WHERE TO EAT: The 16 Essential Restaurants of Akko, Israel

Need to Know

• Currency: Israeli new shekel ($1 USD = 0 shekels)
• Best time to visit: Spring (March to May) offers pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
• Must-try dish: Hummus, traditionally enjoyed by swirling an onion petal or pita through it in a circular motion.

Marseille, France

WHAT:

France’s second-largest city, nestled around one of the Mediterranean's finest natural harbors, long celebrated for its bouillabaisse but rapidly evolving.

WHY:

In the 19th century, immigrants from Italy, Spain, Greece, and elsewhere flocked to Marseille to work in its docks and factories. This cultural influx laid the foundation for a vibrant and diverse food scene, further enriched by the return of North African migrants after the colonies gained independence in the 1950s and ’60s.

Named one of Europe’s two official Capitals of Culture in 2013, Marseille initiated urban renewal projects like a modern tramway and the stunning renovation of Le Vieux Port by Sir Norman Foster, leading to a tourism boom. With a surge of new visitors, innovative chefs from across France began to establish small Mytouries offering a fresh take on affordable contemporary southern French bistro fare, infused with global influences. The restaurant scene in Marseille has never been more vibrant.

— Alexander Lobrano

WHERE TO EAT: The 21 Must-Visit Restaurants in Marseille, France

Need to Know

• Currency: Euro ($1 USD = 0.90 euros)
• When to visit: Summer draws crowds to Marseille, and fall brings rain; late spring is ideal for a visit.
• Must-try: Tunisian-style couscous topped with stewed octopus, a beloved dish among the city's growing North African cuisine enthusiasts.

Lagos, Nigeria

WHAT:

A renowned tech hub and the vibrant core of West Africa's entertainment, overflowing with an unbounded creative energy embedded in the city’s identity.

WHY:

The top names in Afrobeat often hail from Lagos, and the food scene is just as dynamic. Newcomers are greeted by an explosion of sights, sounds, street food, and dining options that showcase the culinary traditions of immigrant communities from across West Africa, rich in spices and oils. Rice dishes form the foundation of Nigerian cuisine, featuring beloved dishes like jollof — white rice served with a tomato sauce — and locally sourced ofada rice paired with a peppery palm oil stew.

Fish pepper soup joints also serve as art spaces, while global tech arrivals introduce flavors from Ethiopia, Lebanon, and South India. During the day, vendors offer crispy puff puffs and other beloved snacks along the streets, and at night, flickering street grills light up the city. The upcoming Eko Atlantic City project — a 4-square-mile area reclaimed from the Atlantic Ocean, intended for 250,000 residents — is set to usher in a wave of chef-driven and fine dining options, yet the vibrant flavors and lively atmosphere permeate all levels of dining in Nigeria’s most bustling metropolis.

— Kay Ugwuede

WHERE TO EAT: The 19 Must-Visit Restaurants in Lagos, Nigeria

Need to Know

• Currency: Naira ($1 USD = 362 naira)
• Best Time to Visit: December and January feature lower humidity due to the Harmattan winds from the Sahara.
• Must-Try Dish: Jollof rice, a fragrant dish made of white rice simmered in a richly spiced tomato sauce.

Nagoya, Japan

WHAT:

A key agricultural hub in Japan, Nagoya has been likened by writer Haruki Murakami to Arthur Conan Doyle’s “Lost World,” evoking a sense of a timeless city where prehistoric creatures could still exist. Despite being home to industrial giants like Toyota, it feels more like a sprawling countryside village than a bustling urban center.

WHY:

As Japan prepares for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, Nagoya is ideally situated just a two-hour train ride from Tokyo Station and en route to popular destinations like Kyoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima, making it a perfect stop for food lovers. While the city may not have a plethora of activities, it certainly boasts a wealth of culinary delights, recognized by Michelin when it included Nagoya in its guide in 2018.

The term Nagoya-meshi refers to the region's distinct cuisine, featuring dishes such as kishimen (flat, chewy noodles), hitsumabushi (crispy grilled eel in a savory-sweet glaze), and miso katsu (deep-fried pork drenched in rich miso sauce). Known for its vibrant red miso and a thriving coffee culture that embraces the “Morning” tradition—where restaurants and cafes often provide a complimentary small meal with your morning brew—Nagoya is a city where hearty food reflects the warmth of its people.

— Nina Li Coomes

WHERE TO EAT: The 27 Must-Visit Restaurants in Nagoya, Japan

Need to Know

• Currency: Yen ($1 USD = 109 yen)
• Best Time to Visit: Spring (April to May) or fall (September to October) for pleasant and dry weather.
• Must-Try Dish: Hatcho (red) miso, generously served as a thick sauce over pork katsu.

Monterrey, Mexico

WHAT:

The leading city in northeastern Mexico, known as a major financial, commercial, and industrial hub, set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Sierra Madre Oriental and the iconic Cerro de la Silla, where beef reigns supreme and grilling is treated as an art form.

WHY:

This city is the origin of Topo Chico mineral water, arrachera (skirt steak commonly used in carne asada), and hosts the largest barbecue competition in Latin America. With specialties like beef barbacoa, grilled cabrito (baby goat), ribeye, and soft flour tortillas, there’s ample reason to explore this thriving metropolis, along with a host of lesser-known culinary treasures just waiting for global recognition.

Dishes such as empalmes, which feature two corn tortillas slathered with pork fat and filled with cumin-seasoned refried beans, cheese, salsa, and local piquin chiles, grilled to perfection. Or machacado, a delightful breakfast dish combining dried beef and scrambled eggs. For those food enthusiasts who love Mexico City and are enchanted by Oaxaca, Monterrey is poised to be the next culinary hotspot.

— Liliana López Sorzano

WHERE TO EAT: The 22 Must-Visit Restaurants in Monterrey, Mexico

Need to Know

• Currency: Mexican peso ($1 USD = 19 pesos)
• Best Time to Visit: Spring in Monterrey offers warm weather, avoiding the intense humidity of summer and the rains of fall.
• Must-try Dish: Grilled cabrito (baby goat), a signature dish of Northeastern Mexico.

The East Village, New York City

WHAT:

A vibrant neighborhood in lower Manhattan known for its small spaces, affordable options, and perhaps the greatest variety of cuisines and inventive restaurants found in any single area of the city — and possibly the nation.

WHY:

In a city filled with excellent dining choices, the East Village shines as New York’s most energetic culinary hub. With a plethora of cuisines — including Japanese, Chinese, Korean, Ukrainian, Jewish, Indian, Vietnamese, Filipino, and beyond — these restaurants go beyond broad culinary themes. Recently, they have focused on regional East and Southeast Asian dishes and even very specific specialties, driven by heightened competition and a growing local clientele of discerning international students.

You can find Suki, a six-seat Mytoury that offers homemade Japanese curry, and Dian Kitchen, which specializes in crafting rice noodles just like those from Yunnan, China. Kolkata Chai serves masala chai, inviting South Asians to reclaim their beloved drink, while the East Village hosts the only New York location of The Alley, a popular Taiwanese bubble tea chain that elevates the boba experience. This neighborhood values creativity and avoids pretentiousness, making it a place where prices remain generally affordable. It’s an astonishing collection of food, drinks, and trendy downtown restaurants unlike any other in New York, or even the world.

— Serena Dai

WHERE TO EAT: The 24 Must-Visit Restaurants in New York’s East Village

Need to Know

• When to visit: New York truly shines in the spring, as tulips bloom along the sidewalks, and in the fall, when the leaves transform but outdoor seating remains available.
• Must-try: Any seasonal gelato and sorbet offerings at Superiority Burger, the renowned vegetarian spot by chef Brooks Headley.

Pristina, Kosovo

WHAT:

The bustling capital of Kosovo — the youngest country in Europe, which claimed independence just 11 years ago and is now carving out its identity through art, nightlife, and of course, cuisine.

WHY:

Kosovo broke away from Serbia in 2008, and witnessing the vibrant early days of this new culinary scene is a unique chance. Pristina’s gastronomy has been shaped by the influences of the Ottoman Empire, former Yugoslavia, and nearby Mediterranean nations, focusing on grilled meats, peppers, cheeses, pastries, and pickles.

This new identity has allowed for an exploration of traditional flavors and local ingredients in innovative ways. Pristina has largely stayed under the radar of mainstream tourism until recently (the repercussions of the Balkan wars of the ’90s linger), resulting in an environment rich with genuine creativity. Even the most seasoned traveler can appreciate the vibrant energy reflected in the people and dishes of Pristina.

— Kaltrina Bylyki

WHERE TO EAT: The 10 Must-Visit Restaurants in Pristina, Kosovo

Essential Information

• Currency: Euro ($1 USD = 0.90 euro)
• Best time to visit: Late summer (August to September) offers sunny, rain-free days.
• Don't miss: Stuffed peppers, freshly baked flatbreads, and wines from Kosovo’s Rahovec region.

Porto, Portugal

WHAT:

Lisbon’s often-ignored northern counterpart— cosmopolitan by nature, welcoming by tradition, and currently experiencing a culinary renaissance.

WHY:

As Portuguese cuisine gains popularity around the globe, travelers (especially from the U.S.) are flocking to explore everything this small nation has to offer. Yet many end their journeys in Lisbon, missing out on the celebrated northern flavors of Porto. Here, chefs are elevating traditional dishes with a modern twist, transforming recipes once deemed too heavy into lighter, refined versions. The city has become a magnet for restaurateurs worldwide, drawn by its nostalgic charm and stunning scenery, leading to the emergence of innovative coffee shops, pastry shops, and pizzerias. However, it’s the traditional tascas serving delicious 10 euro meals that consistently impress.

— Rafael Tonon

WHERE TO EAT: The 34 Must-Visit Restaurants in Porto, Portugal

Need to Know

• Currency: Euro ($1 USD = 90 euro cents)
• When to visit: Since you're here for the food rather than the sun, skip the beachy summer and come in the fall instead.
• Must-try: Francesinha, a massive sandwich stacked with various meats, gooey cheese, and zesty tomato sauce.

Cartagena, Colombia

WHAT:

The jewel of Colombia's Caribbean coast — a vibrant blend of indigenous traditions infused with the rich flavors brought by African, Arab, and Spanish influences throughout history.

WHY:

Today, Cartagena boasts diverse, charming neighborhoods such as the artistic Getsemaní and the tranquil Manga, known for its lush promenades filled with restaurants. Colombia's culinary reputation has soared in recent years, driven by the fusion of Amazonian ingredients and classic dishes like hearty stews, cheesy empanadas, stuffed arepas, grilled meats, and a stunning array of tropical fruits. Chefs from all over Colombia have flocked to Cartagena, drawn by its plentiful fresh seafood and rich biodiversity, taking the city’s already vibrant food scene to new heights.

— Juliana Duque

WHERE TO EAT: The 35 Must-Visit Restaurants in Cartagena, Colombia

Need to Know

• Currency: Colombian peso ($1 USD = 3,475 pesos)
• When to visit: The shoulder seasons in November and March offer warm weather, minimal rain, and fewer tourists.
• Must-try: Arepa de huevo, a deep-fried corn cake filled with egg and various other ingredients.

Hobart, Australia

WHAT:

The capital of Tasmania, an enchanting island-state in Australia, is famed for its rugged wilderness, breathtaking coastlines, seaside chip shops, and the cartoon anti-hero inspired by one of its native species.

WHY:

Hobart has traditionally been seen as a sleepy waterfront town, but the opening of the quirky Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) in 2011 has sparked a wave of creative experimentation. The art and music scenes have flourished, highlighted by the fantastical, gothic Dark Mofo festival each winter, and the restaurant landscape has expanded accordingly. With a surge in tourism, chefs have relocated from the mainland, drawn by the laid-back lifestyle, close-knit community, and rich farmland. A new wave of restaurants is proving that Hobart is about more than just fish and chips.

— Audrey Bourget

WHERE TO EAT: The 20 Must-Try Restaurants in Hobart, Australia

Need to Know

• Currency: Australian dollar ($1 USD = 1.50 AUD)
• When to visit: Enjoy outdoor activities during the summer months, from December to February, or attend the Dark Mofo festival in June.
• Must-try: King Edward potato galette, a staple at Franklin, which played a key role in promoting farm-to-table dining in Hobart.

Oakland, California

WHAT:

Historically, Oakland was often viewed as the punchline of San Francisco's privileged elite: too impoverished, too diverse, and overly liberal, they claimed, lacking in culture, good coffee, and a proper Caesar salad. Today, however, it's widely recognized as the cultural and artistic heart of the region; a hub for small businesses and food that expresses identity.

WHY:

Oakland stands out as one of America’s most vibrant culinary cities, not due to the polish of its Mytouries, the number of James Beard awards, or an array of Michelin stars, but for its dedication to chefs who share complex narratives through their dishes: their origins, struggles for equity, and the principles of how we, as a community, should treat each other.

We’ve faced injustice and heartache here — from the tragic shooting of Oscar Grant and the Ghost Ship fire to issues of gentrification and the ongoing crisis of homelessness, along with the significant outflow of the Black community in search of affordable housing, which has drained some of Oakland’s vitality. Yet, the spirit of resilience, the fight for justice, our desire for improvement, and the communal beauty of this city all influence how we shop, cook, and come together to share meals. This vibrant culture makes Oakland a vital destination for food and drink.

— John Birdsall

WHERE TO EAT: The 17 Essential Restaurants of Oakland, California

Need to Know

• When to visit: Summer in Oakland offers delightful weather, with pleasantly warm days and refreshingly cool evenings.
• Must-try: The fried chicken sandwich from Bakesale Betty is a local favorite.

Cork, Ireland

WHAT:

This ancient port city in Ireland has successfully avoided the worst pitfalls of mass-produced modernity and the tacky souvenir charm that affect parts of Dublin and Galway.

WHY:

While Cork's city center may resemble a charming, tranquil Irish postcard, it is vibrant and lively, hosting numerous music and arts festivals, with locals and university students frequenting its pubs, restaurants, and venues. Recently, three restaurants along this stunning coastline have earned Michelin stars. Though Cork County has long been recognized on the international culinary map — home to Ballymaloe and its renowned cookery school, as well as the origins of the Irish farmhouse cheese movement in West Cork — Cork city had previously taken a backseat.

That narrative has shifted. The historic English Market serves as the traditional heart of the town, and around it has flourished a rich and varied culinary scene, featuring everything from a cozy south Indian ayurvedic cafe to artisanal sourdough pizza, and from casual to high-end Japanese dining to vibrant Middle Eastern cafes. The city is known for its impeccable fish and chips and a passionate craft-beer culture. Cork has always possessed the potential to be the most exciting food destination on the island, and it is now revitalized and more dynamic than ever.

— Tim Magee

WHERE TO EAT: The 22 Essential Restaurants of Cork, Ireland

Need to Know

• Currency: Euro ($1 USD = 90 euro cents)
• When to visit: The best weather can be enjoyed from May to September.
• Must-try: Tripe and drisheen (blood pudding), a traditional dish best savored at the English Market.

Santiago, Chile

WHAT:

The breathtaking Chilean capital, a colonial Spanish city set against the backdrop of the Andes mountains — a popular destination for summer skiers and wine enthusiasts alike.

WHY:

While Santiago is often associated with comfort-food staples like stuffed completos and generous servings of pernil, the city's culinary scene is currently undergoing a transformation. Inspired by Noma's introspective philosophy and the culinary movements sweeping across South America, chefs in Santiago are challenging the outdated notion that traditional Chilean cuisine is unfit for fine dining.

There’s a growing recognition and utilization of indigenous ingredients historically used by the Mapuche people, combined with contemporary techniques applied to classic Chilean dishes. Whether indulging in Santiago’s bistronomy trend, reinterpreting the nation’s beloved barbecue, or exploring its lively sangucherías, the city's culinary landscape is evolving in unprecedented ways.

— Hillary Eaton

WHERE TO EAT: The 38 Essential Restaurants of Santiago, Chile

Essential Information

• Currency: Chilean peso ($1 USD = 780 pesos)
• Best time to visit: The city sees fewer visitors in summer (December to February), offering more affordable travel for those who can handle the heat.
• Must-try dish: The tasting menu at 99 Restaurante.

Dinogo brings this guide to life with journeys to Porto, Marrakech, and NYC, thanks to Black Tomato.Check out the itineraries and book your adventure now.

Credits

Editorial Lead: Lesley Suter Editor: Nicholas Mancall-Bitel Creative Director: Brittany Holloway-Brown Contributors: Austin Bush, Amanda Ponzio-Mouttaki, Alisa Larsen, Hillary Eaton, Jay Friedman, Summer Sun-Min Lee, Todd Lazarski, Keren Brown, Alexander Lobrano, Kay Ugwuede, Nina Li Coomes, Liliana López Sorzano, Serena Dai, Stefanie Tuder, Kaltrina Bylyki, Rafael Tonon, Juliana Duque, Audrey Bourget, John Birdsall, Tim Magee, Joe McNamee Copy Editors: Emma Alpern, Rachel P. Kreiter Fact Checker: Lisa Wong Macabasco Engagement Editors: Adam Moussa, Milly McGuinness, James Park Project Manager: Ellie Krupnick Special Thanks To: Amanda Kludt, Matt Buchanan, Meghan McCarron, Sonia Chopra Photos: Gary He, Inti St. Clair for Getty Images, Gary He, Henryk Sadura for Getty Images, Gary He, Denis Tangney Jr. for Getty Images, Corinna Kern, Meghan McCarron, Adetona Omokanye, Ozan Aktas / EyeEm, fbdesigncenter / Shutterstock, Aldo Felipe Orozco Hernández / EyeEm, Louise Palmberg (Noodles at Ho Foods), Giannis Papanikos / Shutterstock, Apexphotos for Getty Images, Gary He, John White for Getty Images, eddie-hernandez.com / Shutterstock.com, Darren McLoughlin, Angela Lourenco for Getty Images