Love at First Bite: Editors' Most Unforgettable Dishes from Global Travels
Food goes beyond mere sustenance—it's a gateway to cultural discovery and an essential part of any travel experience. Years later, a single dish or ingredient can vividly transport you back to that inaugural, unforgettable bite.
Our editors share their first encounters with iconic dishes that left lasting impressions. If these stories spark your appetite, dive into our From the Source cookbook series to fuel your own culinary adventures around the world.
Tom Kha Kai (Thai Coconut Soup) in Thailand
During my first trip to Thailand this year, I discovered many culinary gems, but tom kha kai captured my heart. After a grueling day of trekking, our jungle lodge chef served our weary group a bowl of unassuming white soup, with pale chunks of onion and chicken floating on top. The first sip unleashed a symphony of flavors: tangy, spicy, savory, and sour, all infused with fragrant herbs. Key takeaway: Never judge a soup by its appearance.
DIY or buy? Achieving that depth of flavor demands time and fresh ingredients—I've honed my ginger-grating skills but haven't tried recreating tom kha kai at home yet. Perhaps soon, if midnight cravings align.
Tortilla (Spanish Omelette) in Gijón, Spain
When I moved to Spain in 1991, I fell deeply in love with the humble tortilla—a simple blend of potatoes, eggs, and sometimes onion. Over five years there, I savored countless versions at local cafés, where a pincho de tortilla (tortilla slice on bread) proved more authentically Spanish than bullfights or flamenco. Mastering the timing—frying potatoes just right and flipping for perfection—eluded me, but it paired impeccably with morning coffee or evening wine.
DIY or buy? Simplicity in ingredients meets culinary precision. My home attempts vary from decent to disastrous, making trips to Spain irresistible for the genuine article.
Mango and Passion Fruit Éclairs in Paris, France
In 2013, amid Paris's sweltering summer, aimless wanders led me to Stohrer, a legendary patisserie evoking Versailles grandeur. Beneath mirrored arches, the mango and passion fruit éclairs beckoned with their golden, tiger-striped glaze and oozing curd. It was a decadent first love—through my dentist's eyes, perhaps forbidden.
DIY or buy? My flour-dusted recreations end in chaos, even after a class with a Le Cordon Bleu alum. True finesse belongs to patisserie masters.
Baja Fish Tacos in Loreto, Mexico
After a hurricane hit Baja shortly after my arrival, I hunkered down in a humid hotel. Emerging hungry amid storm debris, a local bar served a frosty cerveza with lime, followed by beer-battered cod in corn tortillas, topped with crisp cabbage, crema, and limes. One bite fused hot fish with cool crunch—the salty tortilla and zesty lime affirmed Mexico's spirit endured.
DIY or buy? These tacos shine in their coastal birthplace, with ocean breeze and grit. Home versions fall short.
Okonomiyaki in Osaka, Japan
As a student in Osaka, a neighbor's dinner introduced me to okonomiyaki. We shredded cabbage, chopped onions and pork, mixed batter, and grilled massive pancakes on a tabletop teppanyaki, layering seaweed, bonito flakes, sauce, and mayo. Piping hot and soft-centered, it outshines Japan's refined fare in my cravings.
DIY or buy? Home versions are decent—its name means 'grill what you like'—but I miss the griddle and neighbor's encouragement.
Panettone in Sondrio, Italy
Post-job quit, a month in Italy included Christmas at relatives' in an Alpine village. Silvio and Rena's fruit-studded panettone appeared ritualistically, its fluffy, loaf-like texture irresistible amid lively debates. (Panetto means 'small loaf cake.') It's my top Christmas treat.
DIY or buy? Italians perfect it—no need to try. I source quality ones like Loison's (since 1938) annually.
