By Fathima Rukaiya,
Travel isn’t just about the views; it’s a full-on flavor adventure! In 2025, food tourism is taking over, and we’re here for it. We’ve rounded up the Top 10 Cities that serve unforgettable meals, complete with must-try dishes, updated average prices, and halal-friendly options when available. Get ready to feast your way around the world!
1.Bangkok, Thailand
Pad Thai
Dish consists of: Tofu, shrimp, eggs, peanuts, tamarind sauce, and stir-fried rice noodles.
Cost: $2.50 – $4.00
Level of Spice: Mild to Medium (you can ask for more heat!)
There are halal options in Muslim communities.
Suitable for vegetarians? Yes
Pad Thai Jay is a vegetarian version of Pad Thai that uses tofu instead of fish sauce.
For dessert: Mango Sticky Rice, which costs about $2.
2. Marrakech, Morocco
Tagine
Dish consists of: Meat and vegetable stew simmered slowly.
Cost: $5 – $8
Level of Spice: Mild to Medium (not hot but aromatic).
Halal options: Common in Morocco.
Suitable for vegetarians? No, it isMeat-based
Vegetarians should try couscous with seven vegetables!
3. Tokyo, Japan
Sushi
Dish consists of: Raw fish served over rice.
Cost per plate: $1.20 – $3.00.
Spice: The only way to make it hot is to add wasabi.
There are few halal options, although halal eateries are expanding.
There isn’t much traditional sushi that is vegetarian friendly.
Vegetarian substitutes include Inari Sushi (sweet tofu pockets) and Kappa Maki (cucumber roll).
4. Istanbul, Turkiye
Doner Kebab
Pita-wrapped beef or chicken slices with vegetables.
Cost: $3 – $5
Level of Spice: Light
Halal Options: Almost everything is halal.
Appropriate for vegetarians? No
Gozleme (Turkish flatbread with spinach and cheese, $2.50) is a vegetarian substitute.
Simit (sesame bread ring) and Turkish tea are excellent vegetarian options.
5. Rome, Italy
Carbonara Pasta
Pasta with eggs, cheese, and pancetta.
Cost: $10 – $15
Level of Spice: Light
Halal Options: There are versions without pork.
Appropriate for vegetarians? While traditional carbonara isn’t,
Cacio e Pepe (cheese and pepper pasta) is a vegetarian substitute.
6. Penang, Malaysia
Char Kway Teow
Noodles are made using stir-fried flat rice.
Cost: $2 – $3.50
Level of Spice: Medium to Hot (mild is an option).
Several street vendors with halal certification are available.
Appropriate for vegetarians? Usually not (meat or seafood)
Veg Alternative: Vegetarian Char Kway Teow made with tofu and veggies.
7. New Orleans, USA
Gumbo
Thick stew with meat/seafood and veggies.
Cost: $12 – $18
Level of Spice: Medium (may be spicy).
Vegetarian options are preferable for halal eaters; halal options are limited.
Appropriate for vegetarians? While traditional gumbo isn’t,
Vegetarian okra gumbo is one alternative.
8. Seoul, South Korea
Bibimbap
Rice, veggies, beef, egg, spicy sauce.
Cost: $6.00 – $10.00
Spice Level: Medium to Hot (depends on amount of gochujang added)
Halal Options: Itaewon restaurants offer halal versions.
Vegetarian-Friendly? Can be easily vegetarian!
Veg Alternative: Vegetarian Bibimbap (no meat, add tofu).
9. Barcelona, Spain
Paella
Saffron rice with seafood/chicken.
Cost: $15 – $20
Spice Level: Mild
Halal Options: Available in Muslim-friendly restaurants.
Vegetarian-Friendly? Standard isn’t, but:
Veg Alternative: Vegetable Paella (loaded with artichokes, beans, and peppers).
You can try Churros con Chocolate dessert for $4
10. Lima, Peru
Ceviche
Raw fish marinated in citrus.
Cost: $8 – $12
Spice Level: Medium (spicy peppers sometimes added).
Halal Options: Seafood-based; watch for alcohol in marinades.
Vegetarian-Friendly? Ceviche isn’t, but:
Alternative: Mushroom or Mango Ceviche available in trendy spots.
Try Lucuma ice cream for dessert (vegan options available)
Whether you’re a meat lover, spice chaser, or vegetarian traveler, these 10 cities offer world-class eats for every budget and diet. Always check local menus or use apps like HappyCow and Zabihah for up-to-date halal and vegetarian options!
*Please note that all prices mentioned above are accurate as of 2025. Prices may vary depending on the food spot or restaurant where the purchase is made.
