Summer is the perfect season for culinary exploration, and some cities are renowned for their iconic food and drink scenes that truly come alive during this time. Here are two standout destinations where foodies can indulge in unforgettable flavors.
1. New Orleans, USA
New Orleans is a paradise for food lovers, especially in summer when the city’s culinary scene is at its peak. Known for its rich Creole and Cajun heritage, the Big Easy offers iconic dishes like gumbo, jambalaya, and crawfish étouffée. Summer is also prime time for fresh Gulf seafood—think oysters, shrimp, and soft-shell crabs.
For a sweet treat, grab a plate of powdered sugar-dusted beignets at Café du Monde. Wash it down with a refreshing Sazerac, the city’s signature cocktail, or a frozen daiquiri to beat the heat. Summer festivals like the Creole Tomato Festival and Tales of the Cocktail celebrate the city’s vibrant food and drink culture, making New Orleans a must-visit for culinary adventurers.
2. Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo’s summer food scene is as vibrant as its bustling streets. The city offers an array of seasonal specialties, including kakigori (shaved ice topped with sweet syrups) and chilled somen noodles served with dipping sauce. Summer festivals (matsuri) across Tokyo feature street stalls selling yakitori, takoyaki, and grilled squid, adding a festive touch to your culinary experience.
Don’t miss a visit to the city’s izakayas, where you can enjoy refreshing highballs and sake paired with small plates. For dessert, seasonal fruits like juicy peaches and melons are transformed into exquisite Japanese sweets. Tokyo’s mix of traditional flavors and modern culinary innovation makes it a foodie hotspot all summer long.