10 Food Scenes to Book a Flight for Now

We book travel for tastes of place, landing in time to kick off a trip with the ideal meal and visiting the market in the morning before we take back off. That’s why we keep up with food scenes around the world — to determine our next delicious destination. From Southern cuisine in Atlanta to José Andrés’ recommendations in Spain, here’s what to taste in the major hubs you crave.

The Spanish chef shares standout seafood and more in four regions, from Málaga to Madrid; a Floridian shines light on a beaming food scene in the Sunshine State; and a Parisian rounds up the year’s can’t miss restaurant openings in the City of Light. From Florida to France, there’s something new on the menu.

A Californian curates a guide to a thriving culinary destination in the desert; a former Georgian celebrates Southern hospitality, comfort food, and brunch in the capital of the state; and Detroit chefs share their spins on The Motor City’s classic dishes, from an elevated take on the signature pizza style to modern Moroccan in Michigan.

Meat lovers can feast on Colombia’s national dish in Bogotá; fans of KPop Demon Hunters can snack like their favorite characters from the hit movie in Seoul; and seekers of the South can gets hands on with baking, beverages, and seafood in Charleston. Beyond dining at restaurants, you can go crabbing or tour an oyster farm in the coastal destination.

Out west, Seattle has a new airport lounge with a terrace for taking in mountain views that pairs with pretty impressive food; and Salt Lake City is home to two new airport lounges with perks of their own. Plus, Los Angeles has a nice mix of new restaurant openings with everything from Afro-Caribbean fare to soul food to sourdough pizza to try.

Wherever you’re waiting to fly or landing, new flavors await. Let these experts and locals help you curate an irresistible itinerary on the ground.