When Donna Shunk first heard the term “foodie,” she instantly knew this word perfectly described her love of culinary experiences. A foodie is an eater who would likely go on a road trip or travel a distance just to try a specific dish or trending restaurant (and will likely take photos to post on social media). This is not to be confused with a food lover who enjoys food for both pleasure and to satisfy hunger but does not have that heightened interest in culinary experiences.
The world has exploded with opportunities to satisfy any foodie’s gastronomic cravings. And you don’t have to pay the cost of fine dining to experience an ever-wider selection of epicurean delights. Here are some tips from Donna Shunk, a true foodie who knows how to maximize a culinary adventure among street vendors, food trucks, pop-up restaurants, and curbside bistros that cater to the traveling gourmand.
Tips for a great foodie adventure
Research the street food scene
Whether you are planning a culinary adventure in an urban metropolis or visiting a culturally rich country, always take the time to research the street food scene. Philadelphia, San Francisco, Austin, New York, Tucson, Portland, and Chicago are notable in the US. However, the most authentic national dishes are found right on the street in small towns in countries like Italy, Thailand, Mexico, Greece, and China.
Consider a food truck journey
Many famous food trucks are still stationed in their originating cities, like Cousins Maine Lobster, Luke’s Lobster, Mac Mart (NYC & Philadelphia), Food trucks are not only a great way to eat on a budget while on vacation, but you can’t beat the camaraderie you may experience simply by standing in line! There are a ton of delicious Vegan/Vegetarian and Pescatarian trucks available, too.
Check out a pop-up restaurant
Donna Shunk knows that many of the finest chefs with authentic menus still lack a permanent address. The pop-up restaurant came into existence to offer an unparalleled dining experience without the ongoing overhead costs of a brick-and-mortar restaurant. Connect with a local culinary social media outlet to get real-time messaging when these culinary start-ups find a creative space in an atrium, a rooftop, a vacant storefront, a neighborhood gallery, a nightclub, or even the chef’s home.
Consider a new take on fine dining
Internationally and locally, in the right season, noteworthy curbside bistros can be found within the entertainment districts of all major destinations. While these culinary establishments may lack the space to seat larger groups, they make up for it with a limited yet distinct menu selection. Start within your network of passionate foodies for suggestions on where to dine abroad, bistro-style. Next, consider your hotel concierge, front desk clerks, door attendants, and drivers, who are typically very familiar with the local food scene.
Philadelphia is a great Food City for non-meat eaters
Whether you’re a devoted vegan, vegetarian, or just want to incorporate more vegetables and less meat and dairy into your daily meals, these restaurants and bakeries offer some of the tastiest and most creative vegan (sometimes called “plant-based”) dishes in Philadelphia.
For outstanding vegan Mexican, try Bar Bombón in Rittenhouse; for craft mocktails and cocktails and awesome vegan bites, try Charlie was a Sinner on 13th Street. For amazing Vegan Pizza, 20th Street Pizza is a MUST with quality ingredients and dough. All the HipCity Veg locations are iconic fast-casual spots in the city, serving tasty burgers, shakes, and fries that are both flavorful and shockingly plant-based. For a more formal dining and elegant dining experience, try Vedge in Center City. The building is beautiful, and they have a highly sought-after Happy Hour menu too. Luhv Vegan Deli serves up vegan deli fare The Reading market location sells cold cuts and sliced cheeses to go along with sandwiches like smoked golden beet lox and cream cheese on a bagel and a top-notch Reuben on rye. Start with the tuna salad, combining elements such as chickpeas and seaweed — it’s a customer favorite for good reason. For dessert, Crust Vegan Bakery in Manayunk sells a rotating menu of beautiful vegan baked goods, including cheesecakes, cookies, scones, coffee cakes, and seasonal pastries inspired by Pop-Tarts. There are countless other excellent spots to discover in Philly too.
You can eat your way around the world, all while learning about new cultures and traditions and staying on a budget. All it takes is a little planning. And when you explore food from a historical perspective of the people, you gain a richer experience with memories that will last a lifetime.
