When you’re visiting a new city, one of the best parts of the adventure is finding incredible local food. But here’s the catch: Google doesn’t always know best.
Sure, search engines and review apps can give you a list of the most popular spots, but let’s be real: the truly unforgettable meals usually aren’t the ones on top of a Google search.
I was in Florence recently and noticed that many restaurants are tourist traps and use fake reviews to increase their score in Google or Tripadvisor reviews.
Usually, mom-and-pop restaurants, very small businesses, and local markets don’t need a digital footprint to stay busy. So, how do you find those hidden gems without relying on the internet? Let’s take a look at the tips that I think are the best!
Follow the Locals
Here’s the first and maybe the simplest trick: If the locals are eating there, it’s probably good.
Before entering, stop for a moment outside the restaurant or café. Pay attention to lunchtime crowds. Restaurants filled with locals during peak hours are usually serving authentic, high-quality meals.
Also, look for long lines, especially at street food stalls. If people are willing to wait, it’s a good sign.
Obviously, avoid places that seem geared toward tourists. Some restaurants may be full because they are in the center or on a busy street. If a restaurant has menus in five different languages or offers a “tourist special,” it’s probably not where the locals eat.
PRO TIP: Don’t tell around, but I follow the construction workers. They always seem to know the best budget-friendly spots!
Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Recommendations
I would also recommend something that was used in the past but that many travelers seem to have forgotten: talk to people.
Strike up a conversation with a bartender or a shop owner and ask where they like to eat. Locals are often more than happy to share their favorite spots, and their recommendations are usually far better than anything you’ll find online.
Here’s what to ask:
- “Is there a good place to eat nearby at a reasonable price?”
- “What are the typical local dishes we absolutely have to try?”
- “Where can we eat something good and authentic?”
BEWARE: Be careful with hotel staff. They’re often trained to recommend tourist-friendly spots. Instead, ask someone who’s not in a customer-facing role, like a housekeeper or security guard.
Move Away From the City Center and Tourist Areas
Remember that the best food isn’t always in the city center.
Tourist hotspots tend to have overpriced, underwhelming food. Instead, venture into the local neighborhoods to find more authentic dining experiences.
You can take a walk through residential areas looking for family-run restaurants, bakeries, and cafés that don’t rely on tourist traffic. Or visit local markets that are often surrounded by great food stalls and casual eateries.
The rule of thumb is: if you see souvenir shops and sightseeing tours, keep walking. In addition, remember to avoid these tourist traps.
Check Out Food Markets and Street Stalls
As I was saying before, if you want to experience the local food culture, there’s no better place than a food market or street stall.
Markets are often where locals do their shopping and grab quick bites, so you’ll find fresh and authentic food at affordable prices.
The downside is that these places are very casual and often have no seating. However, for eating something quick while exploring the city, they can be a good alternative.
PRO TRAVELERS: Don’t be afraid to try something new. Street food is often where you’ll find the most authentic flavors. Just make sure the stall looks clean, and the food is cooked fresh.
Skip the Big Restaurants and Chains
Sometimes, the best meals come from the tiniest places.
Look for mom-and-pop restaurants, hole-in-the-wall eateries, and cafés with a cozy, local vibe. These places often serve homemade dishes with recipes passed down through generations.
What I usually look is:
- Handwritten menus (often a sign of daily specials).
- Not necessarily modern, but still clean. Some of the best meals come from places that aren’t flashy.
- Locals dining in groups.
If they don’t have English menus and you’re unsure what to order, ask for the house specialty or point to what someone else is eating.
Learn a Few Food Phrases
Since we were talking about the language, I would like to say that language barriers shouldn’t stop you from finding great food.
The first thing you can do is to learn a few key food phrases in the local language. Something like: what’s the house specialty? or what do you recommend?
Obviously, be very careful if you have any allergies. In that case, I recommend carrying a card in the local language stating that you have allergies and which foods you need to avoid.
Also, remember that technology can always help you. You can use the translator on your smartphone or show a picture of the dish you want to order.
Trust Your Instincts
The last thing I wanna say is that you should trust your instincts. If a place looks inviting and smells amazing, it’s probably a winner.
Some of the best food experiences happen by accident. Maybe you wander into a bakery because the smell of fresh bread lures you in. Or you stumble upon a tiny café while getting lost in a new neighborhood. Be open to the unexpected: it’s often where the magic happens.
And remember, not every meal needs to be Instagram-worthy. Some of the best food experiences happen when you take a chance on an unassuming spot that turns out to be a hidden gem.
And remember to leave room in your schedule for meals, even if you’re on a short weekend trip. Food is an essential part of the country you’re visiting, and you can’t truly say you’ve been there unless you’ve tried the local cuisine!
