After our article about 5 food experiences in Europe you must try, this is the second and more exciting part of this culinary journey.
To comprehend a destination’s customs, you should experience the local food, flavours, and scents. This article includes a list of five additional food experiences that you should absolutely attempt while in Europe. These experiences are inextricably linked with the local culinary tradition. The joy you get as a guest is the same whether it’s local street foods, a classic dish or a traditional dessert. Each bite tells a story of the region’s history and culture, offering insights that go beyond mere sustenance. Embracing these culinary adventures not only tantalises your taste buds but also deepens your connection to the place you are visiting.
Try a freshly baked focaccia in Genoa
Focaccia is a flat, oven-baked Italian bread with a similar texture and style to pizza, also known as “pizza bianca” in some regions of Italy. Focaccia can be served as a side dish or sandwich bread with a variety of toppings (both savoury and sweet). In Ancient Rome, panis focacius was a flatbread baked on the earth. The name comes from the Latin word “focus”, which means “place for baking”. While some experts believe the dish originated with the Etruscans, it is now commonly linked with Ligurian cuisine.
Focaccia has many versions throughout the Ligurian coast, but the most famous is focaccia Genovese. Genoa’s focaccia is distinguished by finger-sized holes on its surface. This classic focaccia is coated with olive oil and coarse salt. It is typically eaten for breakfast or as a quick snack in the afternoon. However, you can now try focaccias with a variety of toppings in the city’s traditional bakeries (known as focaccerias), including olives, tomatoes, onions, garlic, mozzarella, and prosciutto. Focaccia e Dintorni is the ideal place in the historic centre of Genoa to sample these delicious focaccias. Especially its pesto is delicious, with all of the aromas coming through in every bite, as well as the full flavour of the warm bread.
Eat Leberkäse at Viktualienmarkt in Munich
King Maximilian I constructed Viktualienmarkt in 1807 when the original food market at Marienplatz grew too crowded. The name Viktualienmarkt is derived from the Latin word “victualia”, which means “provisions” or “food” (and “Markt”, which means “market” in German). Over the ages, it has grown from a basic farmers’ market to a permanent, diversified marketplace noted for its regional specialities, traditional crafts, and deep Bavarian roots. This ancient market, located in the city core near Marienplatz, offers a unique combination of heritage and flair. Locals and visitors alike come here to sample a diverse selection of fresh products, Bavarian delicacies, and gourmet treats.
Metzgerei Schäbitz is the best butcher shop along the street from Marienplatz to the market. The typical Munich Weisswurst can be tried here or purchased for home preparation. But, more significantly, you must sample the delicious Leberkäse in a fluffy bun with mustard. Leberkäse is a typical German meat dish made with pork, beef, and bacon that is roasted in the oven until it has a black, crispy crust. Despite its name, which means “liver cheese,” it does not include either liver or cheese. It is a delicacy that shines in its simplicity.
Taste a hearty Flemish stew in Brussels
Flemish stew, locally known as “stoofvlees” or “carbonnade flamande”, is a typical Belgian dish with deep, meaty flavours. The stew is made mostly from beef that has been slowly cooked in dark Belgian beer and is flavoured with onions, mustard, thyme, and bay leaves. A slice of mustard-flavoured bread is frequently added during cooking to thicken the sauce, which becomes rich, slightly sweet, and acidic. The beer lends the meal its particular malty depth, which is often balanced with a bit of brown sugar or vinegar. Flemish stew, traditionally served with crispy Belgian fries or mashed potatoes. It is a comforting staple in Belgian cuisine that reflects the country’s fondness for bold, slow-cooked meals.
And what could be more traditional and memorable than eating this Belgian meal in Brussels? In the heart of the Grand Place, one of Europe’s most magnificent and spectacular squares, and in an old cellar, you may have an exquisite Flemish stew. Going down the few stairs to ‘T Kelderke restaurant will take you on a journey through time. It is a modest but beautiful place with an open kitchen where the aromas will entice you. In addition to a delicious stew, you’ll be able to sample other traditional recipes and drink excellent local beers. When the weather permits, you can eat at one of the square’s few restaurant tables while admiring the spectacular architecture.
Enjoy pastrmajlija in Ochrid
Lake Ohrid is located on the hilly border that separates southwestern North Macedonia and eastern Albania. It is one of Europe’s deepest (294 m) and oldest lakes, with a distinct aquatic ecology. Because of its importance, the lake was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979, together with the city of Ohrid. At the same time, Ohrid is now one of North Macedonia’s most popular tourist sites, as well as a historically and culturally significant location for the entire Balkan region. The Old Town (Varanasi), which features classic Balkan architecture that extends amphitheatrically on the hill of the city citadel, is still the most impressive section of the city. The city runs around the lake and boasts a variety of contemporary hotels, shops, and restaurants.
With a wide variety of flavours and filling dishes, North Macedonian cuisine is a lively blend of Mediterranean, Balkan, and Ottoman influences. Pastrmajlija, a classic flatbread, is one of its most famous specialities. Pastrmajlija is a dough in the shape of a boat, covered with salted, seasoned, and frequently cured lamb or pork. It is baked until the crust is golden and crisp and the meat is tender. For added richness, an egg may occasionally be smashed over the top halfway through baking. Pizza Via Sacra is a fine pizzeria in the Old Town that also serves tasty local dishes. Among them, a hearty and traditional pastrmajlija stands out. The restaurant also offers outdoor seating in the small square outside Saint Sophia, one of the most historic and significant churches of Ohrid.
Spoil your self with a kremšnita in Zagreb
If you visit Zagreb, don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in a slice of kremšnita. It is a popular Croatian custard cake that has become a symbol of warmth and tradition. This dessert comes originally from the picturesque town of Samobor, which is just outside of the capital. It consists of delicate layers of puff pastry filled with fluffy vanilla custard and whipped cream. In Zagreb’s cafés and pastry shops, kremšnita is more than just a sweet delicacy. It is a nostalgic taste of local tradition. Whether you’re enjoying coffee or wandering the city’s historic streets, this light, creamy treat is the ideal way to experience Croatian culture.
Vincek Patisserie (Vincek Slastičarnica) is an absolute must in Zagreb. This place will wow you with its history stretching back to 1977. Its products stand out for their quality and appearance. You may enjoy both traditional Croatian delicacies and their own innovations, including the amazing orange cake. However, the well-known kremšnita should not be overlooked. At Vincek you can try the Zagrebacka variation of kremšnita, which features a characteristic chocolate icing. Vincek has six stores all over Zagreb, but the most famous is undoubtedly the one on Ilica Street.
Engaging with local traditions
Along with our previous article, these are five unique experiences that are worth trying, and through them you will add another valuable memory to your trip. Because, always, a pleasant taste can be an unforgettable travel experience. Open yourself to the splendours of every destination and embrace the culture of locals free from bias. Engaging with local traditions not only enriches your journey but also fosters a deeper connection with the places you visit. By participating in these experiences, you’ll likely discover hidden gems that may not be found in typical travel guides.
