I have always believed that good food and dining are about taking risks. Food has always been an exciting adventure for me." With culinary tourism gaining momentum in 2024, Indian travelers seem to echo the sentiments of Anthony Bourdain by embarking on food and travel adventures. From food-focused destinations to immersive culinary experiences, the trend of culinary tourism aims to satisfy the cravings of travelers. Let's delve deeper to understand why combining food and travel should be a part of your plans for the upcoming festive season. 82% of Indian travelers enjoy exploring new and local cuisines during their trips."The essence of a place, for me, lies in its food. Whether it's savoring a spicy Tisrya stir-fry in the Konkan region or relishing Thai-style fish with pineapple and Pad Thai at Thailand's Amphawa Floating Market, trying local cuisine helps you understand a place better," shared Priya Ganguly, a graphic designer. This culinary exchange goes beyond food, fostering community and cultural engagement while offering insights into culinary traditions, local produce, and customs. "Exploring Tuscany introduced me to a spectrum of flavors through simple dishes. A piece of bread with olive oil worked miracles, and the local wines were exceptional. However, Uzbek cuisine, especially their Plov, left a lasting impression," recounted Elina Mukherjee, an associate creative director.
AI-generated image for representational purposes only
In Japan, sampling grilled freshwater Unagi (eel) is a must for many travelers. Nearly half of respondents, at 47%, compile lists of restaurants to visit before embarking on a trip. Thanks to the proliferation of food-related content on social media platforms and streaming services, travelers now have easy access to a wealth of culinary information and recommendations, allowing them to check off must-visit eateries during their journeys. Elina, for instance, meticulously plans her gastronomic adventures by creating detailed Excel sheets outlining the local specialties of her destination.
Over half of respondents, at 55%, expressed interest in participating in culinary workshops to try their hand at preparing local dishes. These workshops offer a deep dive into the cooking process, guided by experts who share historical and cultural insights. Shrestha Saha, a corporate communications professional, recounted her immersive culinary workshop experience, which began with a visit to a local market before culminating in a hands-on cooking session and a communal meal.
According to a Times of India Supplement poll, top international culinary destinations include Thailand, Japan, Italy, Vietnam, and New York, while popular domestic destinations encompass Delhi, Goa, Lucknow, and Kolkata. Travelers also have their sights set on upcoming holidays in South Korea, Italy, and various Middle Eastern countries.According to a poll from a Times of India Supplement, cities such as Mumbai, Lucknow, Delhi, and Kolkata have witnessed a 15% annual growth in culinary tourism in India since 2019. Additionally, 59% of Indian travelers report visiting a destination specifically to dine at a particular restaurant, while 61% of global travelers are more interested than ever in learning about the origins of a destination's must-eat delicacies. As per data from the World Travel & Tourism Council, Skyscanner, and Booking.com.
Travelers are currently seeking traditional or ethnic dishes, local street food, and immersive culinary experiences. Moreover, popular regional specialties such as steaks in London, kebabs in Lucknow, eclectic food in countries like Japan, and specialties like wine in Italy are in demand. Furthermore, renowned chef-driven restaurants like Pujol by Enrique Olvera and Hell's Kitchen by Gordon Ramsay are also on the list of preferences for travelers.
