I am asked, most often, by friends and relatives, about the best food countries I have visited. MSNs The Manual has listed their favorites, by continent. I will share theirs, then add my favorites. Europe Italy and France always dominate most surveys and food writers choices. I first developed a fondness for some French food back in the 70s. I had a girlfriend who studied at the Sorbonne in France. She knew her French food better than anyone I have ever known. My two favorite dishes are escargot, and Duck lorange. Close behind are steak frites. And the wine is good and affordable. I have not been back to Italy for decades, perhaps because of my past, bad memories, and the most difficult time in my life. I learned my Father died while I was in Zurich/Rome and could not get home in time for his funeral. It was the saddest and loneliest period of my life. I would a cycling trip to Tuscany or Sicily. But since I cycle now, I would probably give Italy another try. Besides several visits to Paris, including the French Open this past May, I have enjoyed other regions such as Bordeaux, and Champagne.
Loire and Burgundy would be next on my list. You probably wonder why I did not mention one of my new favorites, Greece. The food everywhere in Greece is very good, but not great. My favorites are sea bass, lamb, fried cheese, and olive oil. My Greek brothers always make sure I get the best food, and bottomless glasses of house wine (very good), and mastika (moonshine). Yamas!!! However, the best dessert I have ever enjoyed was in Belgrade, Serbia at the famous Hotel Moskva. The cake is the world famous Moskva Shnit. The Shnit is a fruit cake (not like your grandmothers Christmas fruitcake), made with the finest and homemade cream, and is served around the world. The Hotel also has a special wine that is served with the cake in what I would call a perfect pairing! South America Argentina and Brazil are rated highest, and I would not dispute this, based on my experience. But the only requirement is you must be a red meat eater. The beef is outstanding through both of these countries, as well as other South American counties I have visited, including Chile, Peru, and Ecuador. The beer is also very good
in South America, thanks to the large German influence created by copper mining. German immigrants came to mine copper and other metals, creating a strong German culture in many countries. And despite lots of suggestions, avoid the cuy or guinea pig. It is very greasy and gamey. But the beef and red (mostly Malbecs) rates at the top in most South American countries, from big cities to tiny villages. The meat emporiums in Rio and Buenos Aires were great experiences, and also good value (never go away hungry!). Mr. Mike and I hit a famous meat emporium in Buenos Aires, after learning the tango. Essentially, it is a food orgy of bottomless cuts of beef (our choice), and endless mottles of Malbec. I have yet to see so many cuts of meat on one grill. But if think of finding Chilean seabass here, you are sadly mistaken. Lately, farm raised seabass is available. But during our journey in Chile (from top to bottom), we were continually told it is endangered. And that all the seabass exported to the US is illegal. Local fisherman will catch and sell seabass illegally, just to provide for their families and pay for their boats. Asia I find it difficult all of Asia in one culinary discussion, since Japan seems to be distinct from SE Asian food. So, I will invoke editorial license, and make Japan a separate country just for its unique cuisine and style. As you might expect, Thailand and Singapore top the list, displacing Vietnam at the top of most foodie charts. Thailand and Vietnam are much more affordable places to visit. While to food in Singapore is famous for its hawker stalls, stalls in Thailand and Vietnam are just as enjoyable, and much less expensive. I would give an edge to Singapore for noodles only.
