Anyone who has been fortunate enough to experience a round the world cruise will tell you that it’s an amazing thing to do, full of new adventures, people, places, and food. If you’re like us, and like to try as many local delicacies as possible in the different destinations you visit, you’ll find our handy guide about what to eat and where extremely useful. So if you’re about to embark on a round the world cruise, or indeed are just looking for inspiration about things to try in new places, take a look below for our guide to the world in 18 dishes.
1. Madeira - Espetada Madeirense
Perfectly aged and seasoned bite-sized pieces of meat, served grilled on skewers. These are hugely popular in Madeira and served at most public functions, parties, and picnics.
2. Azores – Cozido
This simple but extremely tasty dish is usually made with both pork and beef, and a mix of fresh vegetables. It’s traditionally cooked in a pot in the ground using the steam from the island’s volcanic activity.
3. New York – Hot Dog
You cannot visit the Big Apple without treating yourself to a hot dog. Whether bought from a vendor in the street, a hole-in-the-wall café, or an American diner, a hot dog with all the trimmings will go down extremely well.
4. Barbados – Macaroni Pie
While every islander might tell you their mum’s pie is the best, most restaurants in Barbados will serve a pretty tasty version of this Bajan take on macaroni cheese.
5. Peru – Causa
This creative, circular dish comprises a short stack of layers of chicken or fish, crushed avocado, and deliciously peppery mashed potato. It’s made with simple ingredients, but is certainly delectable.
6. Mexico – Chicken Mole Poblano
This delicious, sweet dish combines chicken with a rich chocolate and chilli sauce, to create a real treat for the taste buds. It’s great served with Mexican coleslaw, rice, or simple tortillas.
7. Hawaii – Kalua Pork
This authentic dish is traditionally made by slow cooking a whole pig with banana leaves, sea salt, and koa wood by smoking it in a pit in the sand. The result is perfectly seasoned, tender pieces of pork.
8. Australia – Avocado Smash
This delightfully simple creation is usually a light lunch or even breakfast food rather than a main meal. It’s made by merely crushing a ripe avocado onto a crusty roll or piece of bread, and adding salt, pepper, and lime juice.
9. Hong Kong – Dim Sum
Among the many things Hong Kong is known for, Dim Sum is certainly high on the list. The dish is made up of a variety of smaller creations such as dumplings, wontons, and steamed buns, and to name a few.
10. Singapore – Fish Head Curry
It’s because of Singapore’s fusion of many cultures that dishes like this have been born. Made with what many would say is the tastiest part of the fish, this meal uses a traditional Keralan-style curry recipe.
11. Thailand – Pad Thai
A well-known favourite, this dish is found in Thai restaurants all over the world. The prime ingredients are usually flat rice noodles, prawns, and egg, with a whole host of flavoursome extras.
12. Cochin – Freshly Caught Fish
This meal is so perfectly fresh and authentic it might even become your favourite one in India. It’s possible to choose the fish you want from the market next to the sea, take it to a street vendor, and have them cook it however you like right in front of you.
13. South Africa – Bunny Chow
Often referred to as ‘a bunny’, this creation is hugely popular in this part of the world, having originated in Durban’s Indian community. It consists of a hollowed out bread loaf which is then filled with a punchy lamb or vegetable curry.
14. Egypt – Ta’meya
Egypt’s version of a falafel, Ta’meya is made with blended Fava beans, onions, and a mix of fresh herbs. It’s often served with tahini sauce – an accompaniment that perfectly complements the complex flavours of this bite-size treat.
15. Greece – Moussaka
A hearty favourite in many European nations, a good, creamy, lamb moussaka can leave you feeling wonderfully full and content. Especially when washed down with a glass of velvety Greek red wine.
16. Italy – Margarita Pizza
So many pizza restaurants in Italy claim to be home to the nation’s best margarita pizza, and in truth the majority of them are delicious. Forget yourself and let the strings of cheese run down your chin as you treat yourself to this classic dish.
17. Spain – Paella
Whether you prefer chicken, seafood, or vegetable, an authentic Spanish paella is sure to satisfy any appetite. Paired with a fruity rose or earthy red, this could be the perfect Spanish evening you’ll want to recreate at home.
18. France – Tartiflette
Hailing from the Alpine region of France, this potato-based dish is simple but extremely satisfying; great after a long day of exploring. Reblochon cheese, bacon, and onions are also integral in this recipe.
If cuisine is one of the biggest draws inspiring you to cruise, you'll love our guide for the best cruises for foodies.
