Culinary Journeys: Exploring the World Through Food with Local Chefs and Restaurants

Food has always been more than just sustenance—it’s a window into a culture’s heart and history. Around the world, local chefs and restaurants are offering travellers the chance to experience their countries in a way that no guidebook can provide.

Whether it’s a traditional Khmer feast in Cambodia, a farm-to-table adventure in Tasmania, or a Scottish culinary escape, these unique dining experiences invite you to taste the essence of a place. Let’s head out on a delicious journey around the world!

Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor: A Journey into Khmer Cuisine

Hidden away in Siem Reap, Cambodia, the legendary Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor has been a staple of luxury for 92 years. But beyond the historical allure of the hotel lies an incredible opportunity to explore the flavors of Khmer cuisine. Thanks to Executive Sous Chef Dorn Doeurt, affectionately known as Chef DD, guests can now savor carefully crafted multi-course tasting menus at the hotel’s fine dining restaurant, 1932.

Khmer cuisine might not yet have the widespread fame of Thai or Vietnamese dishes, but it is undeniably rich in flavor and heritage. Chef DD, a local Siem Reap native, has taken it upon himself to design tasting menus that highlight the very best of Cambodian produce. From local meats to fresh fish, spices, and even chocolate, each menu is a culinary ode to the nation’s history and its finest ingredients.

Guests can choose from themed tasting menus that transport them through decades of Khmer history, like the 1930s-inspired “The Reign of King Sisowath Norodom” ($80++), or “The Raffles Grand Legacy” ($120++). Highlights include Phlea Salmon with lemongrass and spicy lime sorbet, Fish Amok with Kroeung curry paste, and an indulgent selection of Cambodian cheeses. For an elevated touch, optional wine pairings are available, turning your dinner into a full sensory experience.

For food lovers, this isn’t just a meal; it’s a journey through the rich and evolving flavors of Khmer cuisine. Chef DD’s tasting menus make Raffles Grand a must-stop on Southeast Asia’s culinary map.

Bruny Island Long Weekend & Fat Pig Farm Feast

If you’re after a taste of Tasmania’s stunning landscapes and incredible produce, then the Bruny Island Long Weekend is a feast for both body and soul. Hosted by the Tasmanian Walking Company, this three-day, 30-kilometer journey through the natural beauty of Bruny Island combines hiking with an unforgettable culinary experience at the Fat Pig Farm.

Thanks to a collaboration with the acclaimed Fat Pig Farm, founded by Matthew Evans and Sadie Chrestman, hikers are treated to a special farm-to-table lunch using ingredients sourced almost entirely from Bruny Island. From fresh-catch oysters, which guests can shuck themselves, to delicious local wines, this farm feast celebrates Tasmania’s thriving local food scene.

After the meal, you’ll continue your adventure with a guided walk through beaches, rocky headlands, and lush forests—each step offering a new view of Bruny Island’s breathtaking scenery. The limited-edition walks are available only on select dates, with just five departures between November 2024 and April 2025, making it an exclusive opportunity for those craving both adventure and gourmet dining.

With prices starting at $2695 per person for the 3-night experience, this is the perfect trip for those who want to immerse themselves in Tasmania’s food and wilderness.

Annie B’s Scottish Culinary Adventure

Looking for a culinary escape where you can savour the flavours of an entire nation? Look no further than Annie B’s new week-long culinary adventure through the Scottish Highlands and Islands. Although Annie is best known for her Spanish cookery holidays, she’s returning to her Scottish roots for this one-of-a-kind tour.

Departing on May 1, 2025, this trip promises a feast for the senses. You’ll begin in the historic city of Edinburgh and head north through some of the most picturesque parts of Scotland. From haggis-making workshops to artisan cheese tastings, whisky tours, and venison charcuterie, each stop on the tour showcases Scotland’s finest produce.

In addition to incredible meals at rising-star restaurants like An Cala Ciùina and the Michelin-recommended Edinbane Lodge on the Isle of Skye, guests will enjoy behind-the-scenes tours of local farms and distilleries. You’ll even spend a day at Sally Macdonald’s farm, where you can enjoy a picnic amidst breathtaking views of the Scottish landscape.

Priced at £4,360 per person for 7 nights, including accommodations, guiding, and transportation, this adventure is perfect for foodies eager to dive deep into Scottish culture without breaking a sweat. The small group size (max 14) ensures that every meal is intimate, every bite memorable, and every moment filled with Highland hospitality.

A Walk Through Germany’s Black Forest: A Culinary and Hiking Haven

Germany’s Black Forest is not only famous for its dense woodlands and charming villages but also for its culinary treasures. Inntravel offers a self-guided walking holiday through this gastronomic wonderland, where travellers can enjoy some of Germany’s finest cuisine after a day of exploring the fairy-tale landscapes. Often associated with the iconic Black Forest gâteau, this region has so much more to offer food lovers.

The proximity to France has had a significant influence on the local cuisine, with chefs in the Black Forest refining traditional heavy dishes into more innovative and lighter fare. Expect to find dishes packed with wild garlic, game, river fish, and fresh herbs foraged from the surrounding forests. Chef Joseph Fehrenbach of the Hotel Fehrenbach is known for his use of locally sourced ingredients, personally gathering mushrooms, nuts, and berries from the forest floor to create memorable meals.

This walking holiday includes stays in cosy wooden inns, luggage transfers between hotels, and a Konuskarte, granting travellers free bus and train rides throughout the Black Forest. Priced at £1,045pp, this six-night experience is available from May to October 2024, offering an ideal combination of hiking, history, and world-class dining.

Slow Food and Scenic Views: An Andalucian Farmhouse Stay

For a slower, more immersive food experience, look no further than the Pura Aventura Andalucia Farmhouse Stay. Nestled among olive groves and rolling hills, this leisurely week-long escape is perfect for those who love good food, stunning landscapes, and a relaxed pace of life.

Guests at the farmhouse can indulge in home-cooked meals made from locally sourced ingredients and explore the nearby hilltop villages and markets at their own pace. The experience includes guided visits to a family-run olive oil bodega for tastings and a private tour of Cordoba’s Mezquita, one of Spain’s most impressive cultural landmarks. The Dark Sky Reserve surrounding the inn makes for magical stargazing at night, offering a serene end to your days filled with delicious food and scenic walks.

The trip is priced at £1,300pp, including six nights’ B&B accommodation, car hire, and all guided experiences. Whether you’re keen to walk through the picturesque Torcal or relax by the farmhouse pool, this culinary retreat promises a delightful balance of activity and indulgence.

Warung Culture in Bali: A Journey into Traditional Balinese Flavors

Capella Ubud in Bali invites travellers on a culinary adventure deep into the heart of Balinese cuisine through their Warung Culture experience. Ubud, known for its vibrant food scene, is home to small family-run warungs where traditional dishes are made with love and local ingredients.

From the famous Babi Guling (spit-roasted pig) to the flavorful Nasi Campur (mixed rice dish), each stop on this journey reveals the diverse flavors of Bali. Participants will visit local warungs, starting with Babi Guling Gung Cung, where a whole pig is roasted over an open fire until crispy golden brown. They’ll also stop by Warung Men Juwel to try the famous Nasi Campur and visit a local family in Keliki hamlet to learn how to make sambal paste and Jukut Urab Salad.

The experience culminates with a tasting of Arak, Bali’s traditional spirit, at the Mortal & Pestle Bar, providing a perfect finish to this flavorful journey. This immersive experience is not only a culinary delight but also a chance to connect with Bali’s culture and the people who keep its food traditions alive.

Tanah Gajah Bali: Exploring Balinese Kitchen Culture Beyond the Plate

Bali’s Tanah Gajah, a Resort by Hadiprana, has introduced a new culinary experience that goes beyond just food preparation, offering guests an immersive look into the island’s rich heritage through its kitchen rituals. The ‘Balinese Kitchen Culture’ workshop dives deep into the spiritual and cultural traditions surrounding food in Bali, with insights provided by Tanah Gajah’s skilled chefs.

Participants will not only learn how to cook traditional dishes like Sate Lilit (fish satay) and Sambal Matah (spicy condiment) but will also gain a deeper understanding of the island’s culinary rituals. The experience includes a purification ritual using holy water and the preparation of a canang saiban, an offering given to the gods after cooking, providing insight into Bali’s spiritual connection to food.

Available daily, this hands-on, two-hour workshop costs IDR 485,000++ per person and is open to families and children aged 8+. It’s an unforgettable way to explore Balinese culture while creating delicious dishes that showcase the island’s fresh, local ingredients.

Palace Hotel Tokyo: A Gastronomic Journey Through Japan

Palace Hotel Tokyo is offering a luxury stay package that’s perfect for food lovers eager to explore Japan’s culinary landscape. ‘The Best of Japan: The Art of Gastronomy’ is a tailored gastronomic experience that showcases the best of Japanese food culture, from street eats to refined kaiseki dining.

Guests can enjoy a two-night stay at the Forbes Five-Star hotel, with daily breakfast and a choice between a kaiseki lunch or dinner at the hotel’s Wadakura restaurant. Optional add-ons include curated food tours like Ramen Hunting with Tokyo’s famous ramen expert Brian MacDuckston, or a bento-making class with Bento Expo host Marc Matsumoto. Whether guests want to sample local street eats or learn the art of bento, this experience delves deep into Japan’s multifaceted food scene.

Starting at IDR 485,000++ per person, this package is perfect for those seeking an elevated introduction to Japan’s vibrant culinary traditions, paired with world-class hospitality.

Wildly Elegant Dining in Alaska: Immersive Culinary Experiences

For those seeking an unparalleled dining experience in the wilds of Alaska, the Wildly Elegant food experiences in Juneau offer a fusion of gourmet cuisine and rugged landscapes. Hosted by Midgi Moore, these exclusive events feature meals crafted by top chefs using fresh, locally sourced Alaskan ingredients, such as seafood and seasonal produce.

Each dining event is set against the stunning backdrop of Juneau’s natural beauty, whether in a cozy stone warming shelter by a glacial lake or beside a roaring fireplace overlooking the Lynn Canal. The personalized experience ensures that every meal is tailored to the guests’ preferences, with private chefs crafting dishes that highlight the hyper-seasonal flavors of Alaska.

One of the standout features is the option to have a local chef, like Amara Enciso from Brava Food and The Jorgenson House, hike out to a remote location to prepare an elegant meal. Enciso’s passion for local ingredients and global culinary techniques ensures a dining experience unlike any other.

Taste of the Capricorn Coast: Beaches & The Waterline Restaurant

For food lovers exploring Australia’s Capricorn Coast, Beaches Restaurant in Rosslyn Bay is a must-visit. Just steps from the sands of Kemp Beach, this venue offers a farm-to-table dining experience, consistently serving up fresh seafood and grass-fed beef sourced from nearby High Valley Dawn farm. With its ocean-view deck and alfresco dining options, Beaches is a highlight on the Capricorn Coast Food Trail, offering signature dishes like Moringa Seafood Spaghetti and Mario’s Sizzling Parrilla every Sunday.

Another standout in the region is The Waterline Restaurant at Keppel Bay Marina, known for its award-winning paddock-to-plate experience. Specializing in local beef from the Banana Station group of properties, The Waterline delivers dishes that celebrate the best of Central Queensland’s culinary offerings. Signature dishes include Banana Station Beef Dumplings and Smoked Koorana Crocodile, providing a truly unique taste of the Southern Great Barrier Reef.

New Orleans: The City’s Love Affair with Its Traditional Fare

New Orleans is a city where food is woven into the very fabric of its culture. Influenced by Southern USA, Cajun, Creole, French, and African cuisines, the city’s dining scene is a delicious blend of bold flavors and history. Each meal is an indulgent celebration of New Orleans’ culinary traditions, and here are three new and three iconic restaurants that embody the city’s love for its food.

3 New NOLA Restaurants to Visit:

Wild South
Located in the Garden District, Wild South highlights Louisiana’s seasonal ingredients. Chef Michael Stoltzfus’s tasting menu includes creative dishes like steamed oysters with swordfish bacon, sourdough-fried Lion’s Mane mushrooms, and shrimp with strawberries and caviar.

Etoile
A Parisian-inspired gem on Magazine Street, Etoile is the latest creation from Chef Chris Dupont. With his final restaurant, Dupont showcases dishes like crabmeat and peach relish gazpacho and black drum with crawfish succotash, blending French and Southern influences in a delightful menu.

Hot Stuff
Mason Hereford’s newest venture in Uptown offers a fun twist on traditional steam table fare. From hamburger steak au poivre to chili crisp-marinated cucumbers, Hot Stuff’s cafeteria-style service is quirky and delicious. Don’t miss the glazed Mountain Dew cakes!

3 Iconic NOLA Restaurants to Visit:

Antoine’s Restaurant
As the oldest restaurant in New Orleans, Antoine’s has been serving its famous French Creole dishes for over 183 years. Highlights include Louisiana classics like Seafood Gumbo, Shrimp Creole, and Pompano Pontchartrain.

Brennan’s
A beloved institution for nearly seven decades, Brennan’s is known for iconic dishes like Bananas Foster and Eggs Hussarde. Their elegant Creole menu includes Turtle Soup and Blackened Redfish, continuing a rich culinary legacy.

Napoleon House
With its old-timey charm and creole cuisine, Napoleon House is a French Quarter favourite. Be sure to try their Italian Muffaletta, famous Red Beans & Rice, or Jambalaya while soaking in the ambiance of this historic restaurant.

Oak & Vine Restaurant: A Sri Lankan Twist in the Hunter Valley

Located in the scenic Oaks Cypress Lakes Resort in Hunter Valley, Oak & Vine Restaurant brings an exciting new dining experience to the region. Chef Vinura de Silva draws on his extensive international experience, including his classical French training, to create modern twists on traditional Sri Lankan cuisine.

Sri Lankan food is often synonymous with spice and curry, but Chef Vinura aims to showcase the cuisine’s broader flavors. From sketching new dishes to bringing them to life in the kitchen, each creation offers a burst of flavor from the very first bite. Diners can enjoy these unique dishes paired with some of the best wines from Hunter Valley, making Oak & Vine a hidden gem that food lovers shouldn’t miss.

Final thoughts… The World on a Plate

From Cambodia’s elegant Khmer dishes to Tasmania’s farm-fresh feasts and Scotland’s traditional haggis and whisky, these culinary experiences offer more than just a taste of a place—they provide a deep connection to the people, landscapes, and history that make each country unique.

So, pack your bags, bring your appetite, and get ready to explore the world through its most delicious dishes. Your next culinary journey awaits!