I’ve been busy exploring my local area of the Gold Coast during Covid, in search of the best tastes from across the globe in my back yard. (check it out https://www.australia.com/en/places/gold-coast-and-surrounds/guide-to-the-gold-coast.html) . However, there are sometimes when you just want to unwind and this is where these 14 food and travel shows to watch right now come in!
With travel currently limited, there is no better time for food and travel lovers to venture abroad on the screen as you will see in this list of the best travel shows for food lovers. Food-based travel shows allow us escapism as we discover new foods, destinations and the individual’s that bring them to life. This escapism can turn to inspiration as we plan our post-Covid trips and foodie bucket lists. In a time of restrictions, we can be encouraged to cook dishes that we cannot travel abroad to. Or otherwise, to venture out locally in search of a distinctive dish or cuisine we’ve seen on screen.
Whatever your reason for watching, these below shows will all leave you salivating yet educated and planning for your future trip.
After 8 successful seasons of No Reservations, Anthony parted ways with the Travel Channel to have more say in where he travelled. This is where Anthony Bourdain, Parts Unknown comes in. This series focuses on some of the world’s lesser-known foodie spots, along with some spots that Anthony is particularly passionate about.
Although a little older here than his past work, there is still a sense of debauchery that Anthony is known for. This comes out in some episodes such as a wild night of bar and food hopping through Thailand. This is contrasted with an insightful look into these less visited locals and the food and people that bring the culture alive. While this series is still based on food, expect to dive deep into the culture and history of the region.
Unfortunately, Anthony left the world by suicide, but he has left a legacy to try different food and explore the world (or your backyard) to the fullest.
Ugly delicious
Chef and Restaurateur, David Chang is on a mission. To give those “Ugly” foods the recognition they deserve. His mission takes us deep into the world of foods such as fried chicken, fried rice and Tacos, exploring their history with a unique range of characters. David is a likable host. He is funny, knowledgeable and inquisitive. This makes for a refreshing series where David aims to break down cultural barriers and expose the audience to real stories behind the food.
STREET FOOD ASIA
Perhaps some of the best and most authentic foods can be found on the street in Asia. This series brings us directly onto those streets and the local legends that trade there. The show focuses deeply on these characters, their story and their food. It has a socio-political undercurrent that runs through the stories that compliments the food, much like it did in Anthony Bourdain’s work. Here though, the local characters take charge, drawing you into their life, culture and the importance of food. You’ll come for the food, yet stay for the locals. A must watch!
Bizarre foods with Andrew Zimmern
If you are looking for a show that focuses on unusual foods, then this is it. The host, Chef Andrew Zimmern takes us through different regions of the world, focusing on particular bizarre foods, their preparation and the history behind them. Andrew is knowledgeable, eager and isn’t afraid to have fun on camera. This show has been around for a while now but it is a must-watch for those looking to learn more about the worlds strangest eats. Be prepared for things such as worms, spiders, horse rib and rectum sausages. Not recommended for those that are queasy!
Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations
No Reservations is all in the name. Anthony Bourdain leads us on a journey throughout the world in series in search of the best and strangest foods. No Reservations presents a perfect balance between unusual foods and wild drunken nights with family dinners and thought-provoking discussions over a meal. One of Boudain’s talents is his ability to ask pressing questions with a casual demeanour, allowing an effortless, yet profound dialogue between him and the others he meets.
This combination proved to be a winning formula, with 8 generous series with 142 episodes in total. Anthony is the perfect host. Cool, intelligent, fun and with a passion for food and travel. He brings his insights while taking on board those who he meets. Expect a strong sense of wanderlust.
Rick Stein’s Spain
Although the pacing of this show is perhaps a little slower than some on the list, it absolutely deserves a spot on this list for food lovers. Celebrated chef, author and TV personality, Rick presents the perfect blend between travelogue and cooking show. Rick travels throughout Spain looking for true Spanish food. His knowledge and skills as a chef can be seen as the utilities local produce to create a range of mouth-watering home-style meals. Also well worth watching is his series in India and France!
Salt, fat, acid, heat
Following on from her best selling book of the same name, Samin Nosrat focuses on the four elements that she believes are essential for cooking. Samin’s intense interest in food is evident, giving us a charming look into these elements as she heads across the globe. Although the male presenters on this list are excellent, it’s refreshing to have a feminine perspective. It’s a short series but well worth watching!
Somebody feed Phil
Somebody feed Phil brings a fresh approach to the food/travel genre lead by the enthusiastic host Phil. Phil is perhaps best known as the creator of Everybody Loves Raymond and takes us across the world on his search to eat everything he sees. His optimism and willingness to try new things are contagious. Phil is light-hearted, yet inquisitive as he travels across the globe eating a massive variety of foods. Another one to add to your list!
A cook’s tour
Anthony Bourdain first shot to fame with his book Kitchen Confidential, giving us an insider view of the kitchen. Shortly after, he wrote the best selling “A Cooks Tour ”, from with this series is an offshoot. Anthony’s at his youngest here. He’s wild, raw and with a thirst to explore. He also has a thirst to drink as well! Anthony is still learning what it is like to be on Camera and this honesty shines through this series. Expect to see some foods that you would not be game to try, along with some others that will have you researching when the borders will open!
The Taco Chronicles
If you’re somehow not a taco fan, this show will be sure to convert you. This show is primarily based on tacos but that does not at all mean it is one dimensional. You’ll be guided through the various types throughout Mexico, looking at their history, preparation and the locals that make and enjoy them. By looking through the various styles, you will see how important they are to the culture and discover some new styles that you can try and make at home. Watch this if you’re a taco lover, or even if you’re a lover of good food!
The mind of a Chef
The Mind of a Chef takes professional chefs across the world, looking deeply into a particular meal/cuisine or style. These chefs show us how to create their take on this, yet both the audience and the chefs learn as the episode goes on. We discover the origins of the food, how different people and countries have impacted how it is made and how the chefs’ life and perspective influence the final outcome. This show is for those looking at how to create the perfect dish while learning and engaging in the culture behind it.
Breakfast Lunch and dinner
Following on from his Ugly Delicious series, Chef David Chang catches up with a variety of celebrities over four, hour-long episodes. They discuss food and culture while sampling tasty dishes. Expect to see appearances from Seth Rogan, Lena Waithe, Chrissy Tiegen and Kate McKinnon. A particular highlight is a relaxed vibe between David and Seth in Vancouver. After all, who better to lead you around on a stoned food mission than Seth Rogan.
A cook abroad
A cook abroad is the BBCs take on a foodie travelogue series as we follow a variety of celebrity chefs/tv hosts across the globe. Expect to see the likes of the Hairy bikers Dave Myers, legendary Chef and Tv presenter Rick Stein and the multi-talented Rachel Khoo. Each episode follows a different personality, giving a rich range of variation across the six episodes.
If you’re a fan of British cooks and personalities, give this one a watch!
Street food Latin America
Following on from the success of Street Food Asia, Street Food Latin America brings us across the other side of the world. The show keeps its successful character focussed concept which engages us in the lives of various street food purveyors of the region. At a time where travel is not widely possible and many people are going through hardships, this show helps to show the resilience of people. This determination, along with a love of cooking, is shown through their lives and the mouth-watering dishes that they create.
Summary
All of these shows will have you dreaming of food. Aside from dreaming, you will find that you will be educated, inspired and will be sure to be planing your future trip. If you’re curious about food, check out our article : https://atasteofabroad.com/21-of-the-best-cheese-dishes-globally-you-need-to-try/
If for some reason you don’t like cheese (who doesn’t like cheese!) or if you like curries, please have a look here: https://atasteofabroad.com/13-unique-curries-from-around-the-world/
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