Introduction
Dreaming of slurping noodles in a bustling Tokyo alley or savoring freshly baked croissants in a Parisian patisserie? These food travel shows can transport you to exotic locales and introduce you to vibrant cultures, all from the comfort of your favorite armchair. But these aren’t just your average cooking programs. A true food travel show dives deep into the heart of a place, using cuisine as a lens to explore its history, traditions, and the stories of its people. These shows celebrate the connections between food, community, and adventure.
The popularity of food travel shows has exploded in recent years, fueled by our innate desire to explore the world, even if we can’t physically be there. They offer a vicarious thrill, allowing us to immerse ourselves in unfamiliar cultures and tantalize our taste buds with exotic flavors. More than just entertainment, they provide a window into diverse ways of life, inspiring us to be more adventurous in our own kitchens and travels. People enjoy them because they are a fantastic source of inspiration and an engaging experience, offering a unique perspective on the world around us.
This article aims to highlight some of the very best food travel shows available today. Our selection criteria focus on authenticity, cultural sensitivity, entertainment value, the overall depth of food exploration, and the captivating presence of the hosts. We’ll delve into shows that truly celebrate the power of food to connect us all.
Parts Unknown
The late, great Anthony Bourdain’s Parts Unknown remains the gold standard for food travel programming. More than just a show about eating, Parts Unknown was a profound exploration of culture, politics, and the human condition, all viewed through the lens of food. Bourdain’s gruff, yet deeply empathetic, personality made him the perfect guide to navigate unfamiliar territories and connect with people from all walks of life.
The strength of Parts Unknown lay in its unflinching honesty and its willingness to confront difficult topics. Bourdain wasn’t afraid to venture into conflict zones, explore complex political situations, or challenge preconceived notions about different cultures. He used food as a bridge to understanding, breaking down barriers and fostering dialogue.
One particularly memorable episode takes place in Beirut, Lebanon. Instead of focusing solely on the city’s famed Lebanese cuisine, Bourdain delves into the country’s complex history and political tensions, using food as a way to understand the Lebanese identity. He shares meals with people from different religious and political backgrounds, creating a space for open conversation and mutual respect. This is just one example of how Parts Unknown elevated food travel to an art form.
Parts Unknown earns its place as one of the best food travel shows not just because of its delicious-looking cuisine, but because it’s intelligent, poignant, and genuinely insightful. It’s a reminder that food is never just about sustenance; it’s about connection, understanding, and shared humanity. You can find episodes of Parts Unknown on streaming platforms like HBO Max.
Somebody Feed Phil
In stark contrast to the sometimes-brooding intensity of Bourdain, Somebody Feed Phil offers a warm, lighthearted, and utterly charming approach to food travel. Hosted by Phil Rosenthal, the creator of Everybody Loves Raymond, the show follows Phil as he travels the world, indulging in delicious food and connecting with locals.
What sets Somebody Feed Phil apart is Phil’s infectious enthusiasm and genuine curiosity. He approaches every meal with childlike wonder, savoring each bite and asking insightful questions about the ingredients, the preparation, and the stories behind the dishes. He’s the kind of traveler you’d love to share a meal with.
A fantastic example is his journey to Bangkok, Thailand. Phil enthusiastically embraces the vibrant street food scene, sampling everything from spicy noodle soups to exotic fruits. He doesn’t just eat the food; he dives into the culture, learning about the local customs and connecting with the people who make the city so special. His genuine delight is contagious, making you want to book a flight to Bangkok immediately.
Somebody Feed Phil is a “best” food travel show because it is endlessly entertaining and genuinely uplifting. It celebrates the joy of food and the power of human connection. You can find Somebody Feed Phil on Netflix.
Salt Fat Acid Heat
Based on the bestselling cookbook of the same name, Salt Fat Acid Heat is a visually stunning and intellectually stimulating food travel show hosted by chef and author Samin Nosrat. Unlike shows that focus on specific destinations, Salt Fat Acid Heat explores the fundamental elements of good cooking – salt, fat, acid, and heat – by traveling to different regions where these elements are celebrated.
Samin is an incredibly engaging host, blending her culinary expertise with a genuine sense of wonder and curiosity. She’s not just showing you how to cook; she’s teaching you why things work the way they do.
The show is organized into four episodes, each dedicated to one of the four elements. In the “Fat” episode, Samin travels to Italy to learn about the art of making Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese and prosciutto. She immerses herself in the traditional methods, spending time with local producers and learning about the cultural significance of these ingredients. The episode is not only informative but also incredibly beautiful, showcasing the stunning landscapes of Italy and the passion of its people.
Salt Fat Acid Heat deserves recognition as a top food travel show for its educational value and artistic beauty. It’s a feast for the eyes and the mind, inspiring viewers to become more confident and creative cooks. You can watch Salt Fat Acid Heat on Netflix.
Chef’s Table
While not strictly a “travel” show in the traditional sense, Chef’s Table frequently takes viewers on journeys to faraway lands, showcasing the lives, philosophies, and culinary creations of some of the world’s most talented chefs. Each episode focuses on a different chef, offering an intimate portrait of their personal and professional lives.
The power of Chef’s Table lies in its stunning cinematography and its compelling storytelling. The show goes beyond the food itself, exploring the chef’s inspirations, challenges, and the unique cultural influences that shape their cuisine.
Consider the episode featuring Jeong Kwan, a Buddhist nun and chef at the Baekyangsa Temple in South Korea. The episode explores her philosophy of cooking, which is deeply rooted in mindfulness and respect for nature. The show beautifully illustrates how Jeong Kwan’s spiritual practice informs her approach to food, resulting in dishes that are both simple and profound. It’s a testament to the fact that food can be a powerful expression of spirituality and cultural identity.
Chef’s Table earns its place as one of the best food travel shows because it raises the bar for culinary storytelling. It’s beautifully shot, intellectually stimulating, and deeply moving. Chef’s Table is available on Netflix.
Street Food
The Street Food series on Netflix, with its individual series focusing on different regions (*Street Food: Asia*, *Street Food: Latin America*) is a celebration of the vibrant and often overlooked world of street food. Each episode highlights the stories of the vendors and cooks who create these culinary masterpieces, offering a glimpse into their lives, their struggles, and their unwavering passion for their craft.
What’s particularly compelling about Street Food is its focus on the human element. The show doesn’t just showcase the delicious food; it tells the stories of the people who make it, highlighting their resilience, creativity, and dedication to their communities.
One powerful episode from Street Food: Asia features Jay Fai, a legendary street food cook in Bangkok, Thailand. Jay Fai’s humble, open-air restaurant is renowned for its incredibly delicious and perfectly executed seafood dishes. The episode explores Jay Fai’s incredible work ethic, her dedication to using the freshest ingredients, and her unwavering commitment to her craft. It’s a story of perseverance, passion, and the power of food to transform lives.
Street Food is a “best” show because it captures the essence of street food culture, celebrating the diversity, ingenuity, and human connection found in these vibrant culinary landscapes. Find Street Food on Netflix.
Honorable Mentions
I’ll Have What Phil’s Having: An earlier series hosted by Phil Rosenthal before Somebody Feed Phil, offering a similar lighthearted approach to food travel.
Ugly Delicious: Hosted by chef David Chang, this show challenges conventional notions of “good” food and explores the cultural and historical context behind different dishes.
No Reservations: Another classic Anthony Bourdain show that paved the way for modern food travel programming.
Conclusion
Food travel shows have become an integral part of our entertainment landscape, offering a unique and engaging way to explore the world. They allow us to vicariously travel to exotic destinations, learn about different cultures, and tantalize our taste buds with unfamiliar flavors. From the poignant explorations of Parts Unknown to the heartwarming adventures of Somebody Feed Phil, these shows remind us of the power of food to connect us all.
So, what are you waiting for? Dive into one of these incredible shows and start your own culinary adventure from the comfort of your home. Share your favorite food travel shows in the comments below, and let us know which destinations are inspiring your next real-life culinary journey. After all, food is more than just sustenance; it’s an invitation to explore, connect, and celebrate the rich tapestry of human experience.
