Food can tell you a lot about a culture and we work hard to make sure that you learn all the delicious secrets when you're on tour with us.
There are some dishes that are so strongly associated with a location, it becomes a to-do list item to eat it whilst you’re there. As an example, New Orleans tops my own personal travel bucket list and I can’t imagine going to NOLA and not partaking in a Po’Boy and some beignets! (I’ll get to you someday soon, Café du Monde … )
Here are some traditional delicacies you can’t miss out on whilst you’re on tour:
Lobster in Maine
When stopping in coastal Maine, eating lobster is an absolute must! The people of Maine have found ways to prepare the traditionally lavish food in ways that accommodate any palate. From a boiled full lobster or grilled lobster tail, to a lobster roll sandwich dripping in butter or mayonnaise, or even lobster mac & cheese, this crustacean is sure to be on the menu frequently. Whether you stop at a charming lobster shack with perfect seaside views or an upscale restaurant, there’s no wrong way to eat lobster in Maine.
Escargot in France
Escargot is the French word for snail, which begs to reason that a trip to France is the perfect time to try the dish! Whilst some may think twice before eating a snail, the taste is fairly mild and comparable to a mussel or clam and isn’t as intimidating as it seems. In France, the typical escargot appetizer is cooked in butter, garlic, parsley and occasionally shallots. The cooked snails are often returned to their shell for the sake of presentation, allowing you to snap a quick pic of the iconic French dish.
Sushi in Japan
Sushi has become a go-to meal for people around the world, but you have to try it from the source when visiting Japan! The neat rows on a plate or the satisfying aesthetic of a platter of perfectly plated assorted sushi is as appealing to look at as it is to eat. Whichever way you roll, if you would like maki, nagiri, or any sushi you can get your hands on, you must try this iconic food when in Japan. Tips: Eating sushi with clean hands vs. chopsticks is absolutely acceptable, and dip topping side down into soy sauce!
Pasta in Italy
Ziti. Rotini. Rigatoni. Farfalle. Cavatappi. So many shapes, so little time. This food is an Italian staple and when in Rome (or any other Italian city, for that matter), you simply have to eat some pasta. Nosh on a simple classic, like Cacio E Pepe (cheese and pepper) or Spaghetti Aglio e Olio (garlic and oil). Add sauces or additional ingredients like Spaghetti alla Carbonara with pancetta and egg or Tagliatelle al Ragu alla Bolognese topped with a beef and tomato sauce. The pasta-bilities are truly endless for a delicious pasta dish in Italy.