When you’ve already tried Parmesan in Italy and patisserie in Paris, you may be looking for a foodie destination that’s a little more off the beaten track. Head to one of these unusual destinations in Europe for a taste of traditional food and contemporary dining that you’ll never forget.
Lisbon, Portugal
One of Europe’s most beautiful cities, Lisbon also has one of the most exciting culinary traditions. For cheap and cheerful street food, make sure you try bifona, from one of the many street side vendors. This is a delicious sandwich made by marinating thin slices of pork in local white wine and ample amounts of garlic, which is then fried and added to a freshly baked bun. The perfect accompaniment is mustard (though some like it plain, to fully enjoy the flavour of the pork,) and an ice-cold Portuguese beer. A trip to Lisbon also wouldn’t be complete without the iconic Portuguese treat Pasteis de Nata. For what is possibly the best in the world, go to historic bakery Pasteis de Belem. They’ve been making Portuguese custard tarts here for years in tune to a secret recipe, and you won’t be able to leave after just trying one.
Tallinn, Estonia
Tallinn is an unlikely foodie destination, but once you’ve tried it, you’ll understand why Estonian cuisine is so beloved by those who know it. Dive straight in and try what is possibly their most famous culinary export: marzipan. Cafe Maiasmokk is without a doubt the best place for this - they’ve been making on site since it was founded in 1806, while the sweet treat itself was created in the city in the 1400s. For something special for fine dining enthusiasts, visit Restaurant O, run by chefs Martin Meikas and Ronni Pauks. The two talented chefs champion local Estonian ingredients, and during a trip here you’ll try one of a kind dishes created from elk, black garlic and goats’ cheese.
Helsinki, Finland
Helsinki is a historic city just entering the food radars of travellers around the globe with its emphasis on fresh ingredients and creative cooking style. Stop off at Julvi to enjoy a selection of small plates composed from locally grown and caught ingredients. Bestsellers here include herring with egg and burbot with rye. Their dessert offerings include the ingenious black salsify with sea buckthorn and white chocolate, skilfully merging savoury and sweet flavours. For another sweet treat, head to one of Helsinki’s historic markets, like Hakaniemen Kauppahalli, to seek out delicious traditional pastries, like cinnamon buns and sugar donuts.
Cardiff, Wales
Welsh capital Cardiff makes use of the exquisite local produce from the countryside around in its foodie scene. If you’re a cheese-lover, you can’t miss stopping off at Madame Fromage, a renowned deli and champion of local cheese with a store in pretty Castle Arcade - close to the centre of the city. You’ll find over 150 different varieties of cheese on display, and there’s even an onsite restaurant where you can enjoy lovingly created cheese plates and pair it with some great wine. For fine dining, book an evening table at Michelin-starred Restaurant James Sommerin, where local goodies are transformed into beautiful dishes - the chef uses ingredients caught, grown or gathered in the local area - like wild sea bass, langoustines, sage and artichoke.