August 31st 2024.
When we travel, we often find ourselves exhausted and famished after a long day of exploring. In these moments, it's natural to reach for our trusty phones and search for a good place to eat nearby. Maybe you're in a new town and eager to try out the local delicacies. However, as counterintuitive as it may seem, relying solely on Google may not lead you to the most satisfying dining experiences.
Experts Nathan Thornburgh and Jamie Barys, who have years of experience in the food and travel industry, suggest alternative ways to discover the best eateries. According to them, Google's search results may be skewed towards sponsored content or tourist traps that will leave a dent in your wallet. Similarly, recommendations from social media platforms like Instagram or TikTok may lead you to overhyped places with subpar food.
So, what's their secret to finding the best spots to eat? Well, it's simple – ask the locals! In an interview with The Wall Street Journal, Jamie advises asking for recommendations from people who live in the area. But make sure to be specific with your request. Instead of asking for the "best restaurant," ask for their favorite everyday spot that may not be swarmed with tourists. For a fancier dining experience, inquire about their go-to place for special occasions. And don't forget to ask for specific dishes to try as well.
This approach not only leads you to authentic and delicious establishments but also helps you avoid any embarrassing fashion faux pas. After all, you wouldn't want to show up in a formal gown at a taco truck or in casual attire at a fancy restaurant.
Furthermore, Jamie suggests considering the source of your recommendations. For example, if you're in Shanghai, don't ask a local for the best Sichuan restaurant. And while hotel concierges may have some good suggestions, they may also recommend tourist-friendly options or places they have a good relationship with. For a more unpredictable and rewarding experience, ask a bartender or a housekeeper for their recommendations.
Nathan also advises returning to the same restaurants during your trip. You may discover new dishes or a livelier atmosphere on a different night. And while it's important to seek out the best places to eat, it's also crucial to be open to the possibility of a not-so-great meal. As Nathan puts it, "The risk and reward go together."
Lastly, timing is everything. Jamie suggests going to the recommended restaurants at the best times. For example, in Mexico City, the best tacos are not found during midday but rather late at night. So, make sure to ask a local when is the best time to visit a particular eatery.
Do you have any stories about finding the best local restaurants while on holiday? We would love to hear from you! Feel free to share your experiences by emailing us.
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