From night markets in Bangkok to Michelin-starred tasting menus in Dubai, culinary tourism is transforming how we explore the world—and how destinations shape their identities.

Let me break down the eight key ways food is redefining travel:

1️⃣ Culture on a Plate: Every dish tells a story. Tasting local food—from sushi in Tokyo to biryani in Hyderabad—offers a direct connection to a region’s traditions, values, and history.

2️⃣ Influencing Destination Choice: A significant number of travellers now choose where to go based on food and drink experiences. Food isn’t just a perk—it’s the purpose.

3️⃣ Social Media & Culinary Fame: Instagram-worthy dishes and food bloggers have made meals global attractions. A perfectly plated dessert can now spark a tourism boom.

4️⃣ Economic Engines: Culinary tourism fuels local economies—supporting farmers, chefs, small eateries, and fine-dining establishments alike. In the UAE alone, F&B is set to reach $43.98 billion by 2029.

5️⃣ Innovation in Dining: From interactive pop-ups to AI-curated menus and chef’s tables, travellers are seeking more than meals—they want experiences.

6️⃣ Sustainability as a Magnet: Eco-conscious diners gravitate to restaurants that champion farm-to-table dining, local sourcing, and zero-waste kitchens. It’s not just what’s on the plate—it’s where it comes from.

7️⃣ Culinary Events as Attractions: Food festivals—from the Dubai Food Festival to Ireland’s Dalkey Lobster Festival — draw crowds, create buzz, and turn chefs into cultural ambassadors.

8️⃣ Personal Stories That Resonate: More restaurants are leaning into narrative dining, where chefs share dishes inspired by their roots, memories, and personal journeys. It turns eating into a deeply emotional experience.

Have you ever travelled just for the food? Or discovered a destination through its flavours? Share your most memorable food experience in the comments—I’d love to hear it!

Gaurav Arora - Follow
Managing Director at TheFlightsGuru | 25+ Years in Corporate & Leisure Travel | Specialist in Corporate Travel Solutions, Building High-Performance Teams & Delivering Customer-Centric Services