For those who travel around the world in search of the best local eats, finding the balance between a lighter option and an indulgent feast can be tricky. From street food and regional delicacies to fine dining, here is a list of international cuisines designed for those on a health kick, and where to go for an all-out feast.
Madrid, Spain
Indulgent: Churros
If you’re visiting Spain’s delicious capital, you need to make a beeline for churros – a Spanish dessert of fried dough served with a pot of thick hot chocolate. The long, piped doughnuts are deep-fried to golden perfection, served piping hot, and taste deliciously indulgent.
Recommendation: Chocolatería San Ginés
No trip to Madrid would be complete without a visit to Chocolatería San Ginés. This iconic cafe, established in 1894, continues to delight chocolate lovers with its endless servings of churros. Whether enjoyed at breakfast, as a mid-afternoon snack, or an evening treat, the churros here are a must-try.
Tokyo, Japan
Healthy: Sushi
To fully appreciate this celebrated delicacy, sushi is best enjoyed in the dynamic city of Tokyo, where the dish is both an art form and a way of life. Salmon and tuna are particularly beneficial as they contain high levels of omega-3 fats, perfect for heart health. Nori (seaweed) also adds protein and fiber to this sensational meal.
Recommendation: Manten Sushi Marunouchi
Head to Manten Sushi Marunouchi for premium quality sushi without the hefty price tag. This esteemed establishment offers an omakase dinner consisting of nine small plates and a selection of 13-15 nigiri rolls, varying by the freshest produce of the day, all for ¥6000.
London, England
Indulgent: Roast Dinner
A roast dinner is a beloved tradition in the UK, often viewed as the ultimate comfort food. Typically served on Sundays, this dish features roasted meats or a vegetarian alternative, Yorkshire pudding, roast potatoes, stuffing, mixed vegetables, and a rich gravy sauce.
Recommendation: The Pig and Butcher
Located in Islington, this gastropub serves hearty meals to hungry diners. Reservations are recommended due to the high demand for their generous Sunday lunch. If you still desire more after the main course, consider enjoying one of the city’s renowned afternoon teas.
Hong Kong
Healthy: Dim Sum
Translating to ‘touch the heart’, dim sum is a Cantonese delicacy made up of an array of bite-sized dishes best enjoyed with loved ones over pots of Chinese tea. For a healthier choice, stick to steamed options such as har gow (crystal prawn dumplings) or siu mai (pork and prawn dumplings).
Recommendation: Fook Lam Moon
Fook Lam Moon in Kowloon is renowned for its traditional Cantonese offerings and has over 70 years of history. Come here for the har gow, salted egg yolk buns, and signature crispy fried chicken.
New York City, US
Indulgent: Mixed Chicken and Gyro Platter
From burgers to $1 pizza slices, there’s no denying that NYC is one of the world’s premier food destinations.
Recommendation: The Halal Guys
Opt for the Combination Plate ($7.49), which includes tender lamb and grilled chicken served over spiced basmati rice, accompanied by a side salad and the iconic white and hot sauce. Ideal for satisfying those post-night out cravings, it’s high in calories and incredibly filling.
Lima, Peru
Healthy: Ceviche
The preparation of Peru’s national dish is simple yet exquisite – raw fish marinated in lime juice and zesty chili peppers. Ceviche is flavorful enough to tempt even the most apprehensive eaters to savor a healthier option, making it an ideal meal for detoxifying after indulgent days.
Recommendation: La Canta Rana
Located in Barranco, La Canta Rana is widely acclaimed as a top destination for ceviche and other seafood dishes. Enjoy the ceviche guardia imperial, ample enough for sharing, and complement your meal with cancha serrana (roasted corn nuts) and a refreshing pisco, Peru’s distinctive spirit.
Naples, Italy
Indulgent: Neapolitan Pizza
A Neapolitan pizza epitomizes indulgence. The process centers around simple yet quality ingredients, such as basic dough, homegrown tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil, all drizzled with olive oil. When baked for just 60 to 90 seconds in a wood-fired oven, the result is a culinary masterpiece. To enhance your culinary travels in this beautiful region, explore Italy’s best dishes and where to savor them.
Recommendation: Concettina Ai Tre Santi
Boasting pizzas starting at €5, this quintessential Naples eatery serves traditional Neapolitan pizzas alongside creative seasonal offerings, including the renowned Annarella; mini pizza buns filled with artichoke, prepared in three delicious styles (boiled, creamed, and fried).
