Gastronomy Stops of Europe

Europe is known for its affluent gastronomic values ​​, which were created by blending many different flavors throughout history. There are many countries and cities in the continent, where the culinary culture is highly developed, that attract attention with their delicious dishes. European cities, highly appreciated for their unique tastes, promise an unforgettable experience for gastronomy and travel enthusiasts. Sicily in Italy, Lisbon in Portugal, Athens in Greece… Each European city stands out with its local tastes that are dominated by its own food culture. Let’s take a closer look at the famous gastronomy stops in Europe.

A Gastronomy Dream: Paris, France

We wouldn’t be wrong if we called Paris the food capital of Europe. The city offers a wide range of food. Paris, which also plays a very important role in the art and history scenes, hosts gastronomy venues where you will feel their spirit in each corner. Famous for its traditional bistros serving classic French dishes, historical patisseries and hidden wine bars, the city adds a different dimension to gastronomy.

It is possible to say that the roots of French cuisine, dating back to the Middle Ages, have an impact on the highly developed gastronomy culture of Paris. Pastries, meats, cheeses, sauces and desserts form the basis of French cuisine. Croissants, iconic baguettes and colorful macaroons that accompany delightful breakfasts are among the flavors identified with Paris. Apart from these famous delicacies, Parisian cuisine also includes many different dishes. Coq au vin (Red wine chicken) prepared with red wine, mushrooms and lardon, Ratatouille cooked with tomatoes, peppers, zucchini and eggplant and Crème Brûlée prepared with caramelized sugar are just a few of them. Appealing to both the eye and the palate with its delicious dishes, Paris is among the most popular gastronomy destinations in the world.

A Reflection of the Natural Wonders of the Mediterranean: Sicily, Italy

Sicily hosts many tourists each year with its deep-rooted history, unique location, cultural heritage and natural beauty. In addition to these features, the city also fascinates its visitors with its food culture. We can say that specialties stand out in Sicilian cuisine, which has a unique style. Panelle (crispy chickpea pastry), Arancini (deep-fried balls prepared with cheese and rice) and Sarde a ceccafico (sardines stuffed with garlic, breadcrumbs and parsley) are among the most preferred dishes in restaurants on the island.

Apart from these wonderful restaurants, Sicily also hosts street delicacies that are sold at stalls in the markets and provide the opportunity to eat while strolling around. Another gastronomy spot in Sicily is the town called Taormina, which overlooks the Ionian Sea and dazzles with its unique view. This small town has elegant restaurants serving mostly seafood within its borders. Although street food, which is generally a more affordable option, has been adopted in Sicily, local restaurants with local dishes on their menus and luxury restaurants offering exclusive tastes also have an important place.

City of Hidden Delicacies: Lisbon, Portugal

Located on the banks of the Tagus River and surrounded by seven hills, Lisbon bears traces of scenes from old movies with its stone streets, historical sites and famous ceramic tiles. The city, which has such a fascinating atmosphere, of course also has a rich gastronomic value. There is a wide selection of cuisine in Lisbon, from delicious spices to a variety of seafood. The city also hosts many special restaurants that stand out with their vintage decor and menus that are prepared meticulously. These restaurants mostly serve bacalhau, which is the official dish of Portugal, grilled sardines and caldo verde, the traditional soup of Portugal.

It is possible to find Pastel de Nata, a pastry filled with cream, in almost every patisserie in Lisbon. Additionally, the sandwich called Bifana, made with pork and served with mustard and hot sauce, is one of the most famous street delicacies of Lisbon. Lisbon with its hidden delicacies, deserves to be discovered by travel enthusiasts who are keen on gastronomy.

A Colorful Gastronomy Experience: Copenhagen, Denmark

In addition to always being at the top of the list of the world’s most livable cities, Copenhagen has recently made a name for itself in the gastronomy scene. As Scandinavian cuisine becomes more popular every year, interest in Copenhagen cuisine also increases. Although Copenhagen mostly features street food stands, places to eat comfortably and modern cafes, there are also Michelin-starred restaurants in the heart of the city, which have become a popular destination for travelers.

Perhaps the most famous flavor of Copenhagen may be the sandwich called Smørrebrød, which Danish farmers ate for lunch in the past. This sandwich, specially prepared with pickled fish, cold meat, vegetables and various sauces, is served in almost every restaurant in Copenhagen. Additionally, pan-fried round Frikadeller meatballs, Kanelsnegle (cinnamon buns), salmon and herring are among the flavors unique to Copenhagen cuisine.

Flavors from the Blue Waters of the Aegean: Athens, Greece

Athens, the capital of Greece, has the title of “the pearl of the Aegean” with its history dating back to ancient times, historical beauties and food culture that is famous all over the world. Athens also inspires many travel enthusiasts around the world with its delicious food. The fact that many tourists flock to the city to experience these unique dishes proves this.

Traces of the Byzantine and Ancient Greek periods in Athenian cuisine are noticeable even today. Olive oil, which is frequently used in Aegean cuisine, has become the top tier of Athenian dishes. Other essentials of Athenian cuisine are the ingredients such as mint, thyme, dill, olives and bay leaves.

Taverns in town are one of the first places that come to mind when Athens is mentioned. The taverns, which impress with their scrumptious appetizers, offer many different types of appetizers, including Greek salads, white goat cheese, herbed zucchini balls and sautéed zucchini. Meat dishes such as lamb chops or steak are served right after the appetizers. Seafood restaurants located on the Aegean coast are another element that reflects the personality of Athenian cuisine. Athens is also known for its street markets in the town. The Central Market, located in the city center, is a gastronomy spot that is worth seeing with its various spices and fresh meat stalls.