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5 culinary capitals of the world

The ultimate food town from every corner of the globe

We can all agree — the world is simply a banquet of flavours, waiting to be savoured. From the bustling markets of Asia to the elegance of Europe’s Michelin-starred restaurants, the hungry traveller can find unrivalled cuisine, for any kind of craving. In these locales, food is not simply sustenance — it’s a way of life. Here’s our pick of the jewels. Dig in.  

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1. Tokyo, Japan

A culinary powerhouse, Tokyo boasts more Michelin-starred restaurants than any other city in the world (194, to be exact). With its vibrant mix of traditional and the more innovative, you’ll experience everything from exquisite sushi to inventive fusion cuisine. At the top-end of town’s ‘exclusivity’ list is Sukiyabashi Jiro (better known as Sushi Jiro), once hailed as a three-Michelin-starred sushi restaurant. Anthony Bourdain adored this hard-to-find restaurant, and Barack Obama hailed it the best sushi he’s ever eaten.  

Tokyo is a welcome mix of Michelin-starred restaurants and a bustling street food scene where visitors can experience fresh seafood and local delicacies.

For something more achievable and arguably just as impressive, immerse yourself in Tokyo’s vibrant food culture. Dubbed ‘Japan’s Food Town’, Tsukiji Outer Market is home to myriad vendors and restaurants selling all kinds of local fare.  Sample fresh seafood (uni, sashimi and grilled eel) straight from the vendors and experience an authentic Japanese experience. 

2. Paris, France 

A post-Olympic Paris may not spark your wanderlust, but dining at Septime might. This one-Michelin-starred, unassuming icon (think: reclaimed tables, casually dressed staff, tattoos and piercings) sits in the vibrant 11th arrondissement.  

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Chef Bertrand Grébaut keeps the food refined but unpretentious, with a focus on sustainability and fresh local ingredients. Each dish reflects modern Paris cuisine and pairs exquisitely with the selection of natural wines Septime is committed to showcasing. Securing a table can be tricky, but you can book three weeks in advance (reopens for summer August 21).  


Another late Bourdain favourite is Le Comptoir du Relais. While you can’t book reservations, this casual (yet equally refined) experience serves L’oeufs Mayonnaise (eggs and mayonnaise) worth waiting for. That said, to truly experience local food culture in Paris, a visit to the Marché d’Aligre is an experience you won’t forget. This bustling market boasts vendors selling local fresh produce, cheeses, meats, and seafood. No reservation required.  

3. Bangkok, Thailand 

From spicy street food to refined Thai cuisine, Bangkok is a haven for foodies. There are countless markets, street vendors, and restaurants catering to every taste. 

Be sure to book Gaggan, a two-Michelin-starred restaurant that redefines Indian cuisine and views it through a modern lens. Chef Gaggan Anand’s innovative approach has garnered his eponymous restaurant a place on the world stage, and fanship of musician-turned-foodie Ed Sheeran.   

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For a taste of Michelin-star street food, head to Raan Jay Fai — a humble vendor who catapulted to fame after receiving a Michelin star, thanks to the incredible crab omelette. Chef Jay Fai prepares each dish with meticulous care, making it one of Bangkok’s most sought-after food experiences, and it might explain why Martha Stewart hailed her “the best cook in Thailand.” 
 
If it’s Bangkok’s street food culture you’re after, stop by the Chatuchak Weekend Market. With over 15,000 stalls, this market offers everything from spicy papaya salad to grilled skewers. You’ll be there a while, so arrive hungry. 

4. San Sebastián, Spain

San Sebastián boasts one of the highest concentrations of Michelin-starred restaurants per capita in the world. 19, to be precise. In fact, of Spain’s nine restaurants with three Michelin stars, three are located in San Sebastián and the surrounding area. One wonders where to begin? 

An excellent starting point is Arzak, in the city centre. This three-Michelin-starred restaurant has been a cornerstone of modern Basque cuisine for decades, combining tradition with cutting-edge techniques, blending bold flavours with artistic presentation. Don’t miss the signature eggs with caviar. 

Akelarre’s peak placement offers three-Michelin-starred dining alongside sweeping views of the Bay of Biscay. Chef Pedro Subijana is celebrated for his creative interpretations of Basque classics and use of the finest local ingredients. 
 
His tasting menu is both playful and sophisticated, with innovative dishes such as Gin Tonic on a Plate, which deconstructs the classic cocktail into a surprising culinary experience. 
 
Mugaritz is a two-Michelin-starred restaurant, just outside San Sebastián in the countryside. Chef Andoni Luis Aduriz’s Mugaritz is renowned for an experimental approach to food. His menu changes seasonally, but is filled with surprising textures and flavours, and presented exquisitely.

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San Sebastián boasts one of the highest concentrations of Michelin-starred restaurants per capita in the world.

5. Manhattan, New York

Manhattan is the ultimate culinary playground, its food scene as dynamic and diverse as the city itself. From Michelin-starred dining to market and street food, there are endless culinary adventures. 

Three-Michelin-starred Le Bernardin is consistently ranked among the best restaurants in the world. Chef Eric Ripert focuses on seafood and his degustation showcases fish and shellfish, prepared with a delicate French touch. Expect understated luxury, laser-focused on the ingredients and of course, impeccable service. 
 
A few blocks south lies Eleven Madison Park, a three-Michelin-starred plant-based institution that redefines fine dining. Expectations for Swiss-born Chef Daniel Humm’s ability to deliver top-tier vegan fare is high. And he doesn’t disappoint. The dishes are elegant, creative and often playful, and deeply rooted in New York’s culinary heritage. 

Ensure you slip your Mastercard World or World Elite into your travel wallet. Packed with benefits, including free travel insurance, hotel memberships, and airport lounge access, it’ll streamline your sojourn, as well as make it more luxurious. Among myriad other benefits, One Dines Free gives you one complimentary main course when dining at partner restaurants across Asia Pacific. There’s also 10% off selected in-destination activities and selected transport with Klook, Loyalty Status Match at your accommodation and generous discounts at selected partner hotels around the world with GHA DISCOVERY and Agoda.  

Make it a meal to remember with Mastercard

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