Finding truly local food when you’re traveling can feel overwhelming — especially when tourist restaurants are everywhere. But with the right approach you can eat like a local in any city in the world. Here are 10 proven ways to find the best local food when traveling.
1. Ask Your Hotel or Airbnb Host
The best local food tip you’ll ever get is from the person who lives there. Ask your host where they eat — not where tourists eat. Tell them your budget and what you’re in the mood for. Locals always know the best hidden spots.
2. Follow Instagram and Google Maps
Search the city name plus “local food” or “street food” on Instagram. Google Maps reviews from locals (not tourists) are also incredibly useful. Look for places with lots of reviews and high ratings from local reviewers.
3. Walk Away From Tourist Areas
The further you walk from the main tourist square the cheaper and more authentic the food gets. A 10 minute walk can take you from tourist trap prices to genuine local dining experiences.
4. Visit the Local Market
Every city has a central market where locals shop and eat. These markets are packed with fresh produce, street food stalls and local delicacies. Some of the best meals you’ll ever have will cost just a dollar or two at a local market.
5. Look for Queues of Locals
If there’s a queue of local people outside a restaurant or food stall — join it! Locals don’t waste time queuing for bad food. A long line of locals is the best possible sign that the food is worth it.
6. Use the Eatwith or Withlocals App
Apps like Eatwith and Withlocals connect travelers with local hosts who cook traditional home meals. It’s one of the most authentic food experiences you can have — eating a home cooked meal in a local’s house.
7. Take a Food Tour on Day One
Book a local food tour on your first day in a new city. A good food guide will take you to the best local spots, explain the food culture and give you enough knowledge to explore independently for the rest of your trip.
8. Learn the Local Dish Names
Every country has its signature dishes. Learn the names before you arrive so you can order confidently and spot them on menus. Knowing what to look for makes finding authentic local food much easier.
9. Eat at Lunch Not Dinner
Local restaurants are usually busiest at lunchtime when working people eat out. This is when you’ll find the most authentic atmosphere, the freshest food and often the best value set menus of the day.
10. Trust Your Nose
Sometimes the best way to find great local food is simply to follow your nose. If something smells incredible — investigate! Street food vendors cooking fresh food produce the kind of aromas that are impossible to ignore.
Finding local food is one of the greatest joys of travel. Step away from the tourist trail, be curious and let your senses guide you. You’ll discover meals you’ll never forget! Have a tip for finding local food? Share it in the comments below!