Visit Markets Instead of Trendy Restaurants to Discover Local Cuisine While Traveling
Seeing how the locals live and eat is probably one of the main reasons you travel. One way to experience regional cuisine and find out what locals actually eat is to visit a local open-air market or food market, according to Anthony Bourdain.
During the first or two days in your new location, go to the market to find out what the locals eat and what’s in season. When I did this at Nishiki Market in Kyoto, I could see everything from plump, colorful mochi to spit-roasted young octopus to huge barrels of pickled daikon . The time I researched there inspired me to try the same dishes on local menus, such as wagashi (sweets specially made to be consumed with tea).
You can also use the market as an opportunity to stock up on snacks or ingredients if you plan to prepare multiple meals during your stay. Even if you just came to see, pay attention to whatever you want to try. Write down the name or take a picture so you can recognize it later on the menu. Going to the market is also a good way to immerse yourself in the culture at your own pace, as you can move as slow or as fast as you like and you don’t have to talk to anyone to get the full experience.
How Anthony Bourdin Dives Into Town | Men’s magazine