Life is too short to eat the same thing every day.
If you’re a foodie or someone who loves to explore new culinary horizons, this list of 50 must-try foods is for you.
From international delicacies to iconic classics, these dishes deserve a spot on your bucket list. Let’s dig in to the foods to try before you die.
1. Sushi (Japan)
Fresh, artfully prepared sushi is an experience like no other. Try traditional nigiri, sashimi, or even creative rolls.
2. Croissant (France)
A buttery, flaky croissant from a Parisian bakery is breakfast perfection. Pair it with a cup of coffee for the ultimate treat.
3. Peking Duck (China)
Crispy skin and tender meat served with thin pancakes and hoisin sauce — a Chinese classic.
4. Tacos al Pastor (Mexico)
These tacos feature marinated pork cooked on a spit, served with pineapple and fresh toppings. Authentic street food at its finest.
Discover more amazing Street Food from around the World to try here.
5. Pizza Margherita (Italy)
Simple yet divine, this classic Italian pizza is made with fresh tomato sauce, mozzarella, and basil.
6. Ramen (Japan)
A steaming bowl of ramen with rich broth, noodles, and toppings like pork and soft-boiled eggs is comfort in a bowl.
7. Pavlova (New Zealand/Australia)
A light meringue dessert topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit. Perfectly crisp on the outside, soft inside.
8. Lobster Roll (USA)
Fresh lobster meat stuffed in a buttery roll — a must-try for seafood lovers.
9. Pad Thai (Thailand)
This stir-fried noodle dish with tamarind sauce, shrimp, and peanuts is a global favorite for a reason.
10. Gelato (Italy)
Creamier than ice cream, Italian gelato comes in flavors ranging from classic chocolate to unique pistachio.
Discover more Dessert Bucket Lists ideas here.
11. Dim Sum (China)
A variety of bite-sized dumplings and dishes served in bamboo baskets, perfect for sharing.
12. French Onion Soup (France)
Rich, caramelized onions in broth topped with melted cheese and toasted bread.
13. Biryani (India)
A fragrant rice dish cooked with spices, meat, or vegetables. Each region in India has its own twist.
14. Cheesecake (USA)
From creamy New York-style to tangy Japanese versions, cheesecake is a dessert worth indulging in.
15. Gyoza (Japan)
These pan-fried dumplings are filled with meat and vegetables, served with a savory dipping sauce.
16. Ceviche (Peru)
Fresh fish or seafood marinated in citrus juices, mixed with onions, cilantro, and chili.
17. Pho (Vietnam)
A flavorful noodle soup with herbs and meat, often served with lime, chili, and bean sprouts.
18. Tiramisu (Italy)
Layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, mascarpone cream, and cocoa powder make this Italian dessert unforgettable.
19. Pierogi (Poland)
Dumplings stuffed with potatoes, cheese, or meat, often served with sour cream.
20. Kimchi (Korea)
Spicy, fermented cabbage that’s a staple in Korean cuisine.
21. Samosa (India)
Fried or baked pastry filled with spiced potatoes, peas, or meat.
22. BBQ Ribs (USA)
Slow-cooked ribs glazed with smoky barbecue sauce — a true American classic.
23. Hummus (Middle East)
This creamy chickpea spread is perfect with pita bread or vegetables.
24. Paella (Spain)
A colorful rice dish cooked with saffron, seafood, chicken, and vegetables.
25. Baguette (France)
Crisp on the outside, soft inside, this iconic French bread is perfect with butter or cheese.
26. Shawarma (Middle East)
Slices of spiced, slow-cooked meat wrapped in flatbread with fresh toppings and sauces.
27. Sourdough Bread (Global)
Artisan sourdough bread has a tangy flavor and chewy texture that’s unbeatable.
28. Fish and Chips (UK)
Crispy battered fish served with golden fries — comfort food at its best.
29. Crepes (France)
Thin pancakes filled with sweet or savory fillings, from Nutella to ham and cheese.
30. Curry Laksa (Malaysia)
A spicy noodle soup with coconut milk, seafood, and aromatic spices.
31. Baklava (Middle East)
A sweet pastry layered with nuts and honey syrup.
32. Arepas (Colombia/Venezuela)
Cornmeal patties stuffed with cheese, meat, or avocado.
33. Goulash (Hungary)
A hearty stew made with meat, paprika, and vegetables.
34. Falafel (Middle East)
Deep-fried balls of chickpeas or fava beans, often served in pita bread.
35. Smoked Salmon (Global)
Silky, smoky slices of salmon that pair beautifully with bagels or crackers.
36. Beignets (USA)
Deep-fried dough covered in powdered sugar, a must-try in New Orleans.
37. Poutine (Canada)
French fries topped with cheese curds and rich gravy — indulgent and delicious.
38. Churros (Spain/Mexico)
Fried dough sticks coated in sugar, often dipped in chocolate.
39. Bouillabaisse (France)
A rich seafood stew flavored with saffron and served with crusty bread.
40. Moussaka (Greece)
A layered casserole with eggplant, minced meat, and creamy béchamel sauce.
41. Tempura (Japan)
Lightly battered and fried seafood or vegetables, served with dipping sauce.
42. Crème Brûlée (France)
A creamy custard dessert topped with a layer of caramelized sugar.
43. Wiener Schnitzel (Austria)
A breaded and fried veal cutlet, served with lemon and potatoes.
44. Cannoli (Italy)
Tube-shaped pastries filled with sweet ricotta cheese and chocolate chips.
45. Jollof Rice (West Africa)
A flavorful one-pot dish made with rice, tomatoes, and spices.
46. Roti Canai (Malaysia)
Flaky, buttery flatbread served with curry for dipping.
47. Panna Cotta (Italy)
A silky, creamy dessert made from sweetened cream and gelatin.
48. Tamales (Mexico)
Corn dough filled with meat or cheese, wrapped in corn husks, and steamed.
49. Chicken Tikka Masala (UK/India)
Tender chicken in a creamy, spiced tomato sauce.
50. Black Forest Cake (Germany)
A rich chocolate cake layered with cherries and whipped cream.
Food is one of life’s greatest pleasures, and trying these 50 iconic dishes will take you on a culinary journey around the world.
So, if you’re savoring sushi in Japan or indulging in a buttery croissant in France, each bite tells a story.
Which ones have you already tried, and which are next on your bucket list?
