Our annual Best Places to Go lists are crafted to cater to every kind of traveler, whether you’re drawn to serene island retreats or bustling cities teeming with art and design. Yet, for many, the true lure of travel lies in the culinary adventures it offers: savoring dishes crafted by innovative chefs, sampling street food in vibrant markets, and witnessing the transformation of raw ingredients into exquisite meals. For those whose journeys are guided by their taste buds, we present our list of the Best Places to Eat in 2026. These destinations—ranging from cities to states and even specific neighborhoods—boast food scenes that are worth planning your travel year around.
If the idea of enjoying meze on sunlit patios appeals to you, consider Crete, poised to be the European Region of Gastronomy in 2026. Here, in this historic part of Greece, handmade phyllo and mountain herbs create divine pairings with briny seafood and wines from ancient vineyards. Meanwhile, Medellín, Colombia, known traditionally for its hearty Andean stews and bandeja paisa, is emerging as a South American hotspot for young chefs and vibrant restaurants, complemented by an electrifying cocktail scene. Or perhaps you’re drawn to the sky-high dining experiences of Hong Kong, where the challenge in 2026 will be fitting in a dim sum breakfast, bubble tea snack, omakase lunch, and a Michelin-starred French-Cantonese dinner—all in one day.
As we look forward to the year ahead, we’re excited about destinations gaining recognition for their unique culinary offerings, as well as those that have only improved with time. Below are our top 10 food destinations for 2026. Bon appétit.
Boston: A Culinary Renaissance
Boston’s food scene was once as predictable as its public transport, offering dependable but unadventurous fare. However, recent years have seen the city transform its culinary landscape into a sleek and exciting destination. The Seaport district is now a hub of activity, with Danny Meyer’s Italian concept Ci Siamo opening its first location outside Manhattan here in 2026. The area also boasts viral favorites like Lakon Paris Patisserie and Taiyaki NYC, alongside the farm-to-table standout Woods Hill Pier 4.
Local restaurant group BCB3 is at the forefront of this transformation, with must-visit spots like Somaek, a modern Korean eatery, and Sushi @ Temple Records, a Tokyo-inspired record bar offering top-notch sushi. The South End and Somerville neighborhoods are also culinary hotspots, featuring establishments like the haute Greek restaurant Kaia and the Peruvian gem Celeste.
Boston’s new culinary identity is a testament to its creativity and inclusivity, inviting everyone to the table in a city that has long been a hub for innovation and history.
Crete, Greece: A Gourmet Capital
Crete, set to be the European Region of Gastronomy in 2026, is renowned for its wholesome diet and culinary treasures. The island’s diverse landscapes—from gorges to coastlines—contribute to its rich produce, making foraging a popular activity. In spring, locals gather wild herbs and greens, while autumn sees the harvest of mushrooms and truffles.
Each of Crete’s regions offers unique specialties, from sfakianopita in Chania to bougatsa in Rethymnon. The island’s capital, Heraklion, boasts a vibrant food scene with establishments like Thigaterra and Apiri Greek Eatery, offering dishes crafted from fresh, organic produce.
Whether dining at a waterfront taverna or exploring the island’s wine trails, visitors to Crete will find an abundance of excellent extra-virgin olive oil, a cornerstone of the Cretan diet.
Fès, Morocco: A Culinary Heritage
Fès is set to gain international culinary recognition with the arrival of Alain Ducasse at Palais Jamai in 2026. Fassi cooking, cherished within Morocco, is a blend of influences from the Abbasid Caliphate to Islamic Andalucia. The R’Cif market offers a glimpse into the raw materials that define this cuisine, from olive oil to rare spices.
Inclusive Morocco connects visitors to locals through food experiences, including cooking classes and market tours. The opening of the Fondouk Kaat Smen market in 2026 will further highlight the region’s honey production, a staple in Fassi cuisine.
Hong Kong: A Fusion of Tradition and Innovation
Hong Kong’s culinary landscape, a symphony of contrasts where East meets West, continues to evolve with new openings in 2026. The city offers everything from dim sum at Duddell’s to French fusion at Roucou. Iconic institutions like The China Club and Forum maintain their allure with traditional menus.
The city’s vibrant cocktail scene, with bars like Bar Leone and Penicillin, complements its diverse dining options. Whether enjoying a whisky at the Peninsula Hong Kong or a rooftop drink at Ozone, Hong Kong promises unforgettable culinary experiences.
These destinations, each with their unique culinary offerings, promise to make 2026 a year of gastronomic exploration. Whether you’re drawn to the innovation of Boston, the traditional flavors of Crete, the heritage of Fès, or the fusion of Hong Kong, there is something for every food lover to discover.
