Europe is a culinary haven, offering a delightful mix of traditional flavors and modern twists. From the savory stews of Eastern Europe to the rich pastas of Italy, there’s a wide range of local dishes to explore. Here are the best local dishes to try in Europe in 2025 that will take your taste buds on an unforgettable journey across the continent.
1. Paella (Spain)
Spain’s iconic dish, Paella, is a must-try when visiting the coastal regions of the country, especially in Valencia. This rice-based dish is cooked with saffron, and depending on the region, it can include seafood, chicken, rabbit, or vegetables.
Where to Try:
Valencia, Barcelona, and Alicante.
Must-Try: Seafood Paella – a vibrant dish with fresh seafood like shrimp, mussels, and clams, perfect for a seaside meal.
2. Sauerbraten (Germany)
A hearty German dish, Sauerbraten is a pot roast marinated in a mixture of vinegar, water, and spices before being slow-cooked to perfection. Typically served with red cabbage, potatoes, and gravy, this dish is a true comfort food.
Where to Try:
Bavaria, Frankfurt, and Berlin.
Must-Try: Sauerbraten with Potato Dumplings – the perfect combination of tender beef and rich gravy.
3. Moussaka (Greece)
This traditional Greek dish layers eggplant, ground lamb (or beef), and a creamy béchamel sauce. Baked to perfection, it’s a hearty and filling dish that beautifully balances savory and creamy flavors.
Where to Try:
Athens, Thessaloniki, and the Greek islands like Santorini.
Must-Try: Moussaka with a side of Greek Salad – the fresh, tangy salad complements the richness of the moussaka.
4. Coq au Vin (France)
A true classic of French cuisine, Coq au Vin is a slow-braised chicken dish cooked in red wine, usually with mushrooms, onions, and bacon. It’s a dish that combines the elegance of French cooking with the comfort of a slow-cooked meal.
Where to Try:
Burgundy, Paris, and the countryside regions of Provence.
Must-Try: Coq au Vin with mashed potatoes or crusty French bread to soak up the rich sauce.
5. Bangers and Mash (United Kingdom)
A hearty and satisfying British dish, Bangers and Mash features sausages (the “bangers”) served with creamy mashed potatoes. Often accompanied by rich onion gravy, it’s a simple yet delicious comfort food.
Where to Try:
London, Manchester, and Cardiff.
Must-Try: Bangers and Mash with onion gravy – for a classic and comforting taste of British cuisine.
6. Risotto (Italy)
Italian cuisine is known for its pasta, but Risotto is equally deserving of attention. This creamy rice dish is made by slowly cooking rice in a flavorful broth, and it can be customized with various ingredients like mushrooms, seafood, or saffron.
Where to Try:
Milan (try the iconic Risotto alla Milanese), Venice, and Florence.
Must-Try: Risotto alla Milanese – a rich and creamy risotto flavored with saffron, often served with osso buco (braised veal shanks).
7. Cevapcici (Balkans)
A popular dish in the Balkans, Cevapcici consists of small, grilled minced meat sausages, typically made with beef or lamb. Often served with flatbread, onions, and a side of ajvar (a red pepper relish), it’s a flavorful dish that’s perfect for casual dining.
Where to Try:
Sarajevo, Belgrade, and Zagreb.
Must-Try: Cevapcici with somun (a traditional flatbread) and yogurt on the side for a refreshing contrast.
8. Fish and Chips (United Kingdom)
A quintessential British dish, Fish and Chips consists of crispy battered fish (typically cod or haddock) served with thick-cut fries. Often accompanied by malt vinegar or tartar sauce, it’s the ultimate comfort food for a British seaside meal.
Where to Try:
London, Brighton, and Blackpool.
Must-Try: Fish and Chips with mushy peas and a sprinkle of malt vinegar for an authentic British experience.
9. Frites (Belgium)
Belgium’s answer to fries, frites are thick-cut potatoes that are twice-fried to achieve a perfect balance of crispy exterior and soft, fluffy interior. Often served in a paper cone, frites are typically enjoyed with an array of delicious dipping sauces.
Where to Try:
Brussels, Antwerp, and Ghent.
Must-Try: Frites with mayonnaise or andouillette sauce for a true Belgian experience.
10. Goulash (Hungary)
A hearty and flavorful Hungarian stew, Goulash is made with beef, onions, and paprika, creating a rich and slightly spicy dish. It’s a staple in Hungarian cuisine and is often served with dumplings or bread to soak up the savory sauce.
Where to Try:
Budapest, Szeged, and Debrecen.
Must-Try: Goulash with Nokedli (Hungarian dumplings) for a traditional and filling meal.
Final Thoughts
Europe is a treasure trove of flavors, with each country offering its own unique dishes that reflect its culture and history. Whether you’re indulging in a rich, comforting dish like Coq au Vin or trying something more casual like Fish and Chips, these best local dishes will give you a taste of what makes European cuisine so special. So, when you travel across Europe in 2025, make sure to add these local delicacies to your food itinerary for an authentic culinary experience!
