Top Dining Destinations for 2022

Culinary experiences that entice travelers.

They’re certainly tasty, but great food can be found everywhere. Destination meals stand out by taking travelers away from their usual cooking habits and familiar takeout options, inviting them with unique flavors, unparalleled service, and, most importantly, unforgettable stories. The cities, islands, neighborhoods, and regions topping our must-visit list for 2022 stretch across the globe—from Guadalajara to Markham, Saint-Martin to Orange County—yes, that O.C.—offering cuisines that range from nasi lemak to puffy tacos and conche Creole. Each place presents a captivating tale, a compelling reason to visit right now. These narratives are shared by a diverse array of chefs, home cooks, street vendors, and restaurateurs, all of whom inspire our wanderlust with the dishes they create.

Consider the Korean opera singer in Buenos Aires serving japchae con carne, the pizzaiolo crafting wild-yeasted pizzas on a Berkshires farm, the self-styled first Arab pitmaster smoking Texas-style brisket in Dubai, and the photographer curating omakase picnics in a golden Malaysian rice field. Picture the lively couple splitting coconuts on a busy street corner in Saint-Martin, the refugees baking peanut butter curry cookies at a nonprofit in Atlanta, and the chef handing out katsu sandos from a tiny Japanese fire truck in St. Louis—the list goes on.

Two years into the COVID-19 pandemic, these stories also highlight cities that have emerged not only intact but thriving, with food traditions alive and well—places where chefs adapt to meet customer needs, restaurant workers support each other, and generous spirits persist. They’ve shown remarkable resilience, if not immunity, to the virus. While we remain concerned about the pandemic's trajectory and cautious about our global health impact, we’re increasingly inspired by the many ways food communities everywhere have risen to face the challenge and emerged serving food that’s undeniably delicious. Here are the 13 locations we’re most eager to explore and enjoy as soon as the opportunity arises.

Important: No corner of the world is immune to COVID-19. This isn’t a list of havens where you can evade the virus, nor a suggestion to overlook the health of local communities. It certainly doesn’t guarantee that these destinations will be open to visitors throughout 2022. Always check for updates from local health authorities before planning your trip. Travel wisely. Savor the flavors.

Guadalajara, Mexico

Overview:

Known as Mexico’s Silicon Valley and the proud birthplace of tequila, birria, mariachis, and Mexican rodeo, the capital of Jalisco thrives on the energy of youthful entrepreneurs who connect the city’s rich history with its vibrant present.

Why visit now:

Guadalajara is emerging as the new culinary capital of Mexico. After years of playing second fiddle to CDMX, Tapatíos are poised to claim the title as the country's gastronomic hub. Backed by local tech and tequila ventures, acclaimed young chefs are attracting international diners and building on their parents’ legacies.

The excitement surrounds the city’s legendary taquerias, fondas, and street vendors, alongside Jalisco’s traditional agave spirits. It’s also a hotspot for mariscos, spicy tortas ahogadas smothered in fiery Yahualica chile salsa, and antojitos (snacks) like red and green enchiladas and crispy tacos dorados. And of course, there’s birria, available at cherished institutions and food stalls. As you wander the city, the sizzling comales tantalize with the scents of chiles, tomatoes, and spices, while young locals celebrate the vibrant dining culture. Raise a glass! — Bill Esparza

• Essential Information:
• Currency: Mexican Peso ($1 USD = 21 pesos)
• Best time to visit: January to May or November and December for the warm, semi-arid climate that adds to Guadalajara’s appeal.
• Must-try dish: Tortas ahogadas, carnitas sandwiches drenched in a spicy salsa made from tomatoes and plenty of chile de árbol.

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Overview:

Another city that never sleeps, Malaysia’s capital features an incredibly diverse culinary landscape.

Why visit now:

Listen closely to Kuala Lumpur. Most days, the streets buzz with hawkers exchanging friendly banter, the sounds of utensils clanging against woks, chendol trucks rumbling by, and diners animatedly chatting at tables spilling out of open-air Mytouries. Then came 2020, when an unsettling silence fell, broken only by the echo of footsteps in empty alleys. Lockdowns took the food and beverage scene by surprise; even as businesses shifted to delivery, they faced container shortages and a lack of delivery riders, among other hurdles. But the sounds of dining eventually returned, bringing new melodies: home bakers zipping by with bite-sized Nyonya kueh, private chefs warmly welcoming guests for home-cooked meals, and enthusiastic locals leading culinary tours through dishes like nasi lemak and char kuey teow. The vibrant smells, sights, and flavors have also returned, as locals and expats fill the streets once more, not just in the city center but in lively suburbs and coastal areas. By all accounts, Kuala Lumpur is ready to welcome visitors back. — Ian Poh Jin Tze

The 38 Must-Try Restaurants in Kuala Lumpur

• Essential Information:
• Currency: Ringgit ($1 USD = 4.18 ringgit)
• Best time to visit: From May to July, the skies are clear and the weather is dry, but consider experiencing September’s Malaysia Day or December’s New Year’s Eve, when the city sparkles with fireworks.
• Must-try dish: Hokkien mee, featuring thick noodles simmered in a dark, sweet soy sauce, complemented by tender, slightly charred pieces of pork lard.

Saint-Martin, Caribbean

Overview:

Saint-Martin, the northern French part of a small West Indian island, is widely regarded as the top culinary destination in the entire Caribbean.

Why visit now:

The Saint-Martin tourism board has declared 2022 the year of gastronomy, signaling a revival of the dining industry following the devastation of Hurricane Irma in 2017 and the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. This optimism is well-founded; the island’s restaurants, from gourmet tasting experiences to beachside bars, are flourishing, creatively pairing dishes like accra salt cod fritters with Champagne to celebrate the Creole and French flavors that define the culinary landscape.

In contrast to some neighboring Caribbean locales (including the tourist-heavy Dutch side of the island swamped by cruise ships and casinos), dining well in French Saint-Martin feels almost effortless, even on a budget. Start your day with fragrant herbal bush tea alongside warm johnnycakes, guava turnovers, or pain au chocolat. For lunch, indulge in the ocean's offerings: treat yourself to fresh spiny lobster with crispy frites or enjoy affordable dishes like coconut shrimp or conch Creole from a beachside lolo. Follow that with beef samosas at the bar, paired with remarkable blended cocktails. And for dinner, savor goat curry or a modern tasting menu, finishing off with Cuban cigars and aged rhum agricole. — Maria C. Hunt

The 18 Must-Visit Restaurants in Saint-Martin

• Essential Information:
• Currency: Euro ($1 USD = 89 euro cents), but most places also accept US dollars
• Best time to visit: Saint-Martin enjoys warm, sunny weather year-round, but peak tourist season is from May to June and November to December.
• Must-try dish: Goat curry and bittersweet guavaberry rum, a cherished local Christmas tradition.

San Antonio, Texas

Overview:

A thriving metropolis with a vibrant culinary scene, emerging fine dining spots, and hidden food treasures that each have a story to tell.

Why visit now:

For a city named after the patron saint of lost things, San Antonio excels at preserving its heritage. From the Alamo to the River Walk, it boasts a wealth of historic cultural sites, alongside renowned institutions for tacos, barbecue, and other culinary traditions. Locals still flock to beloved establishments like the 65-year-old Ray’s Drive Inn (famous for its puffy taco) and Schilo’s delicatessen (serving German-style meats since 1917), as well as long-standing local chains such as Bill Miller Bar-B-Q and Burger Boy.

In the past decade, San Antonio has welcomed transformation while staying true to its roots. Take the Pearl, for example; since the Culinary Institute of America opened in 2008, this mixed-use development has blossomed into a dining hotspot, featuring Southern coastal fare at Southerleigh Fine Food & Brewery and innovative Asian American dishes at Best Quality Daughter. The same goes for Southtown, where Mytouries like Little Em’s Oyster Bar and Battalion have become essential stops for memorable meals. — Polly Anna Rocha

The 15 Must-Try Restaurants in San Antonio

• Essential Information:
• Best time to visit: In April, when Fiesta transforms San Antonio into a vibrant celebration, but if you prefer fewer crowds, the city is beautiful in early winter.
• Must-try foods: Chicken on a stick (with a jalapeño) from any Fiesta booth, breakfast tacos from any taqueria named after a Mexican state, and brisket from places with lines before they open.

Markham, Canada

Overview:

As the most diverse city in Canada, Markham showcases a rich blend of culinary offerings from across Asia, found in its vibrant plazas and lively streets.

Why visit now:

For the past ten years, construction has expanded throughout Markham, continuously enhancing this suburban area of Toronto. These new developments have created space for fresh immigrants, enriching the community's diversity and allowing local restaurants to grow. Many of these establishments highlight Asian cuisines, from upscale Chinese Mytouries to Hakka noodle spots in strip malls and Afghani kebab shops. It's no surprise that David Chang, known for his downtown restaurants, claims that Markham offers the best food in Toronto.

Canada also faced challenges with anti-Asian hate during the pandemic, similar to issues in the U.S., particularly targeting service industry workers. Simultaneously, Toronto experienced a longer ban on indoor dining than other major cities. However, when Ontario lifted most capacity restrictions in October, it reinvigorated restaurants, cafes, and bars, bringing the neighborhood back to life. Don’t just make a quick visit to Markham on your next trip to Toronto; plan your entire journey around it. — Faiyaz Kara

The 38 Must-Visit Markham Restaurants

• Key Information:
• Currency: Canadian dollar ($1 USD = 1.25 Canadian dollars)
• Best time to visit: Late spring and summer for patio season in Ontario, but restaurants are great year-round.
• Must-try: The incredible variety of dishes at Asian shopping centers like Pacific Mall, First Markham Place, Langham Square, and J-Town.

St. Louis, Missouri

What:

This mid-sized city is renowned for its rich baseball history, expansive Forest Park (which surpasses New York’s Central Park), respected museums, a top-tier zoo, and delicious pork ribs.

Why now:

“St. Louis has quietly climbed into the ranks of the top 15 restaurant destinations in America.” This is the kind of statement you might overhear at recent cocktail parties, as people have ‘discovered’ this Midwestern culinary gem. This insight came from the well-known restaurateur Danny Meyer, a native of St. Louis, who added, “The chef and restaurateur community is incredibly tight-knit and dedicated to showcasing their city.”

The local chefs, rather than national media, have driven this culinary scene's growth, sharing a common philosophy: through mutual support and mentorship, the community flourishes while each individual thrives. This approach becomes transformative when embraced citywide. Competitors collaborate like one massive restaurant group. Established chefs, such as Qui Tran of the acclaimed Nudo House and Mai Lee, frequently partner with emerging talents like Kurt Bellon of the mobile Japanese sando shop, Izumi, fostering exposure and investment that keeps the dining scene vibrant. Immigrant-owned establishments like Chiang Mai, Akar, and Diana’s Bakery also prosper, rooted in the belief that respect and authentic representation are essential for celebrating diverse cuisines. — Holly Fann

The 26 Must-Visit Restaurants in St. Louis

• Need to Know:
• Best time to visit: Early autumn when the humidity in STL eases; catch a postseason baseball game or enjoy a concert by the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra in Forest Park.
• Must-try: St. Louis-style pizza with a cracker crust, topped with Provel cheese and always cut into squares, served alongside toasted ravioli.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

What:

A dazzling skyline on the Persian Gulf, this UAE city has evolved from desert into a vibrant metropolis, serving as a melting pot for the country’s 9 million foreign workers, creating one of the most diverse dining communities worldwide.

Why now:

Dubai’s economic ascent has been fueled by oil, industrial manufacturing, global trade, and real estate, but it truly skyrocketed in the 2000s with luxury tourism. Since then, affluent travelers have flocked to this glimmering city, indulging in champagne and dining at opulent restaurants. Yet, 2,700 feet below the spire of the world’s tallest building, a vibrant array of humble cafeterias, markets, and cafes serves the largely immigrant population with an enticing mix of Middle Eastern, South Asian, and East Asian cuisines.

Throughout the COVID pandemic, the Emirates quickly achieved one of the world’s highest vaccination rates and reopened to tourists for Expo 2020 Dubai, a monumental world’s fair showcasing culture and technology. The long-awaited Ain Dubai, the world’s tallest Ferris wheel, also finally opened. Visitors to these attractions helped revitalize the local restaurant scene, boosted by the Expo’s food court brimming with innovative, sustainable dining options and a surge of home-based food businesses that emerged during the pandemic. This isn’t just the Vegas of the Middle East; it’s far better. — Rahma Khan

The 24 Must-Visit Restaurants in Dubai

• Need to Know:
• Currency: Dirham ($1 USD = 3.67 Dirhams)
• Best time to visit: From November to February, when daytime temperatures soar but drop to around 68 after sunset with low humidity.
• Must-try: Persian kebabs seasoned with Indian spices, served alongside a cup of karak chai.

Clarkston, Georgia

What:

Located just under 10 miles east of Atlanta, Clarkston is a vibrant, multicultural city where half of its 13,500 residents (including numerous asylum seekers) come from over 50 countries across six continents.

Why now:

While Georgia’s bustling capital boasts a diverse culinary landscape, the compact community of Clarkston proudly calls itself the “Ellis Island of the South,” cramming immigrant-owned food businesses from a multitude of nations into a mere square mile.

Since the 1990s, Clarkston has become a refuge for individuals escaping turmoil in countries such as Somalia, Syria, Libya, Myanmar, Ukraine, and Nigeria. Its closeness to Atlanta, accessible public transport, and affordable housing make it a prime destination for asylum seekers in the metro area. With an influx of chefs, cooks, and bakers from diverse backgrounds, Clarkston has emerged as a culinary gem in Atlanta. Nonprofits like Just Bakery and Refuge Coffee Co. provide paid job training, living wages, and pathways to long-term economic stability. In just one afternoon, adventurous diners can savor Ethiopian, Nepalese, Burmese, North Indian, Eritrean, and Vietnamese dishes — if their appetites allow. — Beth McKibben

The 10 Essential Clarkston Restaurants

• Need to Know:
• When to visit: Anytime throughout the year. Atlanta’s coldest month is January (averaging 48 to 50 degrees), while July is the hottest and most humid (averaging around 90 degrees).
• Must-try: Mohinga, a fish soup with rice noodles usually sold by street vendors in Myanmar, or bak kut teh, a fragrant pork rib soup often found in Singapore. Both can be enjoyed at PS-Asian.

Mallorca, Spain

What:

The largest of Spain's Balearic Islands, where mass tourism fills the expansive sandy beaches, while those in the know seek out the secluded aquamarine coves, limestone mountains, and fertile agricultural areas for a more laid-back experience.

Why now:

Mallorca has much more to offer than just sunscreen and inexpensive sangria. In recent years, chefs have embraced sustainable food and tourism practices, moving away from the island's superficial image as a budget beach destination. However, it was the COVID-19 pandemic that truly solidified Mallorca's commitment to local sourcing. With a decrease in visitors and foreign ingredients, local residents began frequenting restaurants, pushing chefs to adapt their menus to highlight local flavors and produce. This period of isolation didn’t weaken the culinary scene; instead, it led to the emergence of modern venues that prioritize seasonal ingredients over old tourist traps.

More developed than Menorca yet less flashy than Ibiza, Mallorca presents a variety of atmospheres, from chic countryside retreats and medieval villages to ancient olive groves and hidden beaches, not to mention the coastal capital, Palma de Mallorca. While Mallorca has turned more introspective, the influences of decades of international visitors, including chefs from around the globe, have left a lasting impact on local cuisine. It is even the favored summer spot of the Spanish royal family, if you need an extra endorsement. — Isabelle Kliger

The 17 Essential Mallorca Restaurants

• Need to Know:
• Currency: Euro ($1 USD = 89 euro cents)
• When to visit: May to June and September to November for a respite from the peak season crowds.
• Must-try: Ensaïmada Mallorquina, a dusted, spiral-shaped sweet bread found in most bakeries and at any respectable breakfast buffet.

Orange County, California

What:

This often-overlooked Southern California region, famous for its palm trees and upscale shopping centers, is beginning to make waves in the culinary scene, driven by vibrant Vietnamese, Mexican, and Korean communities.

Why now:

Sunshine, ocean breeze, board shorts, and burritos — this is the image of Orange County often portrayed in shows like The O.C. and Real Housewives of Orange County. While that depiction holds true along the county’s 40 miles of coast, it overshadows the diverse reality of its 3.2 million residents. Culturally and politically varied, they are crafting some of the most exciting cuisine in Southern California.

The area boasts a thriving Vietnamese community, one of the largest in the U.S., with an emerging generation of restaurant owners eager to innovate. Modern Mexican chefs are reshaping the connections between their ingredients and heritage, advocating for equity in a region that has traditionally leaned conservative. In Anaheim’s Little Arabia District, sun-washed strip malls offer falafel, shawarma, and a plethora of Middle Eastern delights. Today, the culinary scene in Orange County is flourishing. — Farley Elliott

The 38 Essential Orange County Restaurants

• Need to Know:
• When to visit: Essentially year-round (this is Southern California, after all), but aim for July to October for that ideal summer sunshine.
• Must-try: The tasting menu at the Michelin-starred Taco María, a stunning reflection of the region’s intricate ties to Mexican cuisine.

Nantes, France

What:

The historic capital of Brittany, nestled along the banks of the Loire River, stands as one of France’s premier examples of urban renewal and sustainable living, just a few hours by train from Paris.

Why:

Nantes is rapidly emerging as one of France’s fastest-growing small cities, transforming into a bustling hub for neo-bistros, bakeries, and wine bars. In just a decade, it shifted from an industrial wasteland to a vibrant cultural center. It offers a much lower cost of living than Paris, making it an attractive place for launching businesses, and it boasts a high quality of life. Dubbed the “ville du futur” (city of the future), it has drawn in young, eco-conscious residents, with two-thirds of its population under 40, eager to support local agriculture and engage with a creative community.

Even prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, Nantes welcomed a steady influx of chefs, bakers, and sommeliers, some returning home while others sought refuge from skyrocketing costs elsewhere. The pandemic intensified this trend, resulting in a vibrant surge of modern, locavore bistros alongside affordable fine dining, Japanese canteens, sourdough bakeries, pastry shops, coffee roasters, and natural wine bars, all aimed at establishing Nantes as France’s next great food capital. — Lindsey Tramuta

The 15 Must-Visit Restaurants in Nantes

• Need to Know:
• Currency: Euro ($1 USD = 89 euro cents)
• When to visit: From early spring to mid-autumn for the finest seasonal dishes.
• Must-try: Gâteau nantais, a deliciously moist cake made with almond flour, butter, sugar, and rum.

Buenos Aires, Argentina

What:

This vibrant South American city is alive with energy, where eating, drinking, and socializing into the early hours is a way of life.

Why now:

Despite enduring one of the longest lockdowns in the world, the culinary spirit of Porteños remains unshaken. Today, bustling terraces are filled with 20-somethings savoring vermouth, wine, and beer, celebrating a revitalized dining scene.

The vibrant resurgence is most evident in Chacarita, now the city's hub for art, music, and gastronomy. This formerly working-class neighborhood has attracted young creatives while preserving its community vibe. Chefs often collaborate at each other’s venues, leading to spontaneous block parties. While traditional parrillas still serve up classic red meat, new Mytouries are introducing vegetable-forward menus as diners embrace a more diverse palate. Moreover, the city’s close-knit Koreatown is increasingly drawing culinary interest from beyond its borders. — Allie Lazar

The 38 Must-Visit Restaurants in Buenos Aires

• Need to Know:
• Currency: Argentine peso ($1 USD = 100.57 pesos; check the unofficial “blue rate” before traveling)
• When to visit: Many consider the best weather to be from March to May (fall) and October to December (spring). In November, the jacarandá trees burst into stunning purple bloom.
• Must-try: A delicious cycle of vermouth, steak, wine, and helado, repeat.

Berkshires, Massachusetts

What:

Tucked between the Hoosac and Taconic mountain ranges, Berkshire County in western Massachusetts is a natural retreat for arts, nightlife, agriculture, and culinary delights, just a few hours from Boston and New York City.

Why now:

Throughout the pandemic, the Berkshires welcomed a surge of newcomers escaping urban confinement for its tranquil woods, hills, and farmland. According to the Postal Service, it ranked sixth in population growth among similar U.S. regions. These new residents sought a slower lifestyle and discovered a vibrant community with a rich agricultural heritage, chefs crafting locavore menus, and restaurateurs revitalizing historic architecture.

For generations, the Berkshires have been a haven for creatives, including figures like Herman Melville, Norman Rockwell, and Arlo Guthrie. The area still thrives around cultural landmarks such as the Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center in Great Barrington and MASS MoCA in North Adams. These arts institutions consistently draw funds, diners, and inspiration to local Mytouries, where chefs—much like artists—continually find fresh motivation in the land. — Stephanie Gravalese

The 31 Essential Berkshires Restaurants

• Need to Know:
• Best time to visit: Summer, when warm weather brings outdoor dinners at farms and farmers' markets are brimming with fresh produce.
• Must-try: The pizza at Hilltown Hot Pies, where Rafi Bildner narrates the story of local farms through seasonal toppings, complemented by Berkshires cider.

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