Multiple iconic food shows involve hosts traversing countries around the world to discover local cuisines. As these shows are filmed in diverse and beautiful locations, they come with an inherent sense of adventure for their globetrotting hosts as well as the viewing audience. The adventure element of these shows makes them even more captivating and immersive than regular cooking shows. The best food and travel shows combine delectable cuisine with funny, inspiring, and engaging storytelling.
1. Taste the Nation
Padma Lakshmi, the renowned author, actress, model, and former Bravo “Top Chef” host, stars in the wildly popular show Taste the Nation. Recently renewed for a third season, the series explores the diverse food cultures of its featured destinations while addressing various cultural and social issues facing the people there. In the latest season, the host travels to multiple foreign communities within the country to dive deeper into their challenges, growth opportunities, and respective journeys in the country. Lakshmi also explores the diverse food cultures of each community.
A particular highlight of previous seasons was the exquisite dishes that were featured on the show. Some of the dishes included dosas, burritos, kabobs, Pad Thai, and ceviche, among others,
2. Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown
Beloved late chef Anthony Bourdain’s show, Parts Unknown, ran for 12 seasons and was nominated for an incredible 31 Emmy awards, winning 12. Despite the accolades, the show’s significant fanbase, and its massive streaming numbers, the most compelling aspect of the show was its underlying human element. Bourdain often visited locations that most viewers may have never seen or considered traveling to. Moreover, through the show, the host told stories that inspired and showcased the best of food and humanity from Congo and Berlin to Puerto Rico and Tokyo, and countless other places. Many viewers still fondly remember the iconic scenes from the show, such as when Boudain enjoys a warm bowl of noodles by the roadside in Hanoi, Vietnam. Even years after his passing, loyal audiences continue to revisit the show by watching reruns and past episodes online.
3. Somebody Feed Phil
Humor and cookery is a relatively underrated combination in entertainment as not many food and travel shows or films have explored it to the fullest. A show that attempted, and emphatically pulled off the combination is Somebody Feed Phil. This is a feel-good show starring the executive-producer, comic and screenwriter, Phil Rosenthal.
In each episode, he travels to multiple domestic and international locations to try the local cuisine. Rosenthal, a self-proclaimed foodie, visits elite Michelin-star restaurants as well as streetside hawkers in his quest to discover great new meals. He is often joined by celebrity friends, world-famous chefs, or locals as they explore different culinary experiences. Throughout the episodes, Rosenthal infuses situational and family-friendly humor into the script, maintaining a light-hearted and engaging tone.
Viewers cannot get enough of Somebody Feed Phil, which is why this show has now been active for seven seasons. Some of the best episodes explores Phill’s ancestral heritage, his own backyard in New York City, a legendary beverage establishment in Ireland, and a visit to the world’s oldest restaurant in Spain.
4. Man V. Food
Every country or city has its own signature dish, often considered a major attraction for locals and visitors alike. Man V. Food explored this concept in an engaging way. Hosted by Adam Richman, the first four seasons aired from 2008 to 2012. The concept of the show was pretty straightforward—Richman traveled to a new American city in every episode to indulge in its signature dish while engaging in playful banter with the locals. Audiences would also get to know historical facts and trivia about iconic landmarks in each location.
After a five-year hiatus, the show returned in 2017 with a new host, Casey Webb. The first four seasons were broadcasted on the Travel Channel, while subsequent seasons aired on the Cooking Channel.
5. Searching for Mexico
With this show, actor Eva Longoria invites viewers on a delectable journey across the 31 states of her second home Mexico. Each episode highlights the lively atmosphere of the country’s most renowned food hubs, including the rich culinary tapestry of Oaxaca, Mexico City, Jalisco, Veracruz, and Yucatan. As the journey unfolds, viewers discover not only the diverse food options but also the deep-rooted history that creates them. Moreover, Longoria delves into the stories of Mexico’s colonial past, the waves of immigration, and the unique crops native to its fertile land. The series also displays a vivid picture of how the local heritage seamlessly blends with the cuisine. Each episode also features renowned chefs who skillfully blend their expertise with the indigenous people’s culinary heritages to create ancestral-flavored dishes.
6. Chef’s Table
This Emmy-nominated series introduces viewers to culinary stars from various countries. These experts are known to redefine gourmet food with a creative twist and their delicious desserts. Audiences are treated to profiles of iconic chefs such as Alain Passard, Niki Nakayama, and Massimo Bottura to budding talents such as Bo Songvisava and Musa Dağdeviren. Beyond the stunning visuals of their incredible dishes, the series highlights the personal narratives of these culinary experts. Viewers gain insight into their inspirations, the projects that fuel creativity,and the unique methods they employ to run their kitchens. Along with this, each chef shares valuable tricks and cooking techniques that can inspire aspiring cooks. With the series’ serious and engaging, it is a must-watch for anyone considering a career in culinary arts.
In addition to these remarkable series, food and travel enthusiasts might also enjoy other exceptional shows such as Ugly Delicious, Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner, Hell’s Kitchen, and Searching for Soul Food.