Traveling is a great way to discover new flavors and enjoy them in small European towns.
These locales have a vibrant food scene thanks to a love of seasonal, locally sourced ingredients and a new generation of talented chefs with a sense of adventure. This is an incredible feat, but these culinary gems also have thriving farmers’ markets, artisanal food stores, and many culinary festivals showcasing the region’s delights.
Sibiu, Romania
There are many things to love in Sibiu, from the charming Old Town streets lined by colorful architecture to the delicious food scene that celebrates this area’s multi-ethnic identity.
This perfectly-sized town in Transilvania is surrounded by green meadows and the snowy ridges of the Carpathian Mountains. It has been known for its tasty sheep’s cheeses, dry winter salami and comforting stew pots. Ambitious chefs and restaurateurs are now elevating the quality of this hearty and ethical cuisine to new heights while staying true to its roots. This is thanks to the 2019 European Region of Gastronomy title from Barcelona-based IGCAT.
Vejer de la Frontera, Spain
You can’t walk through this beautiful white town in the province of Cadiz without coming across an excellent restaurant.
Vejer de la Frontera is romantic and Medina-like, with Moorish architecture that is blindingly white and colorful flower pots. It also boasts stunning views of the rolling Andalusian countryside.
The land and the Arabs influence local cuisine. It is also creative and constantly changing. The town’s most popular dishes – Retinto beef and almadraba tuna – have been transformed into gourmet delights by sleek restaurants. Vejer’s tapas bars serve a variety of Andalusian and modern bites, as well as delicious sherries (fortified dry white wine from the provinces of Cadiz).
Las Delicias is a stunningly restored theater specializing in high-quality meats and fish but also offers a fantastic dinner. An afternoon Moroccan tea with nutty baklavas and jaw-dropping views from La Teteria Del Califa is a must-have.
Samobor, Croatia
This charming little town was established in the 13th century. It is filled with beautiful Baroque architecture and fairytale-like wooden bridges. You can start in Kralj Tomislav Square in the Old Town. Here you can enjoy the local coffee culture and kremsnite. All this while being surrounded by lovely pastel buildings.
This dreamy pie, with delicate custard cream sandwiched between two layers of puff pastry, is protected by Croatia’s Register of Cultural Goods. It can be enjoyed at Cafe Livadia. They are a few places where the original recipe is still being used.
Greve in Chianti, Italy
Greve in Chianti might lack rustic Italian charm, but it makes up for that with its delicious food. This down-to-earth market city, located 30 kilometers from Florence, offers one of the best food experiences in Tuscany. It is a true paradise for foodies, with many wine shops, enoteche (wine bars), and boutiques selling authentic Tuscan treats.
