Eating With A Local: New Series

In an effort to find the best eats around the globe, I’m connecting with food-loving locals and
putting my stomach in their hands. Follow along as I challenge them to take me to five
of their fave spots for my Eating With A Local series. The only criteria? Good food.
The kind you want to share with friends…

“Where should I eat?” This is the most common question I get via email/text/social media as a travel and food blogger. And I won’t lie, it’s also my favourite to answer. That’s because I’m acutely aware that by sharing my recommendations I’m essentially helping shape the way people experience a particular place (be it an underrated neighbourhood, bustling city or an exotic land). I take this role very seriously and dedicate a lot of time, research and stomach real estate to tracking down great eats – from street food to upscale dining. But with a rapidly evolving culinary world this can be an overwhelming task, one that I originally tried to tackle alone. Alas, over the years I’ve discovered that – like most things in life – the process becomes less daunting (and in fact more enjoyable) when I seek advice. And so this series was born…

Photo credit: Sik Photography.

Although I could rely on guidebooks, food columns or the popular listicles flooding the web, I do things a bit differently when planning my culinary experiences (at home or abroad): I go directly to the people who live/feast in the area I’m about to explore. This involves painstakingly surveying friends, my social media fam and random strangers (from taxi drivers to food writers) to get their tried-and-true recos. I then jot down a lengthy list and hone in on spots recommended by multiple sources. It’s a rigorous and often perplexing process, one that I’m frankly tired of. So in this series I’m throwing it all out the window and trusting one food-loving local to take me to five of their favourite spots. I’m not looking for the “best” or “top” anything. Just the eats they love. For whatever reason they love them. Some missions will focus on a specific cuisine or specialty while others will highlight general neighbourhood/city gems. Here’s what to expect in each post:

1. I’ll introduce you to the Local Glutton (this can be anyone obsessed with food). 
2. We will feast together as I ask them a few rapid-fire questions.
3. I’ll then share their five faves along with My Two Cents for good measure.

My goal in doing this Eating With A Local series is to gain a deeper understanding of local food culture. I plan to unite with fellow gluttons, surrender my palate and take part in libations and conversations. Because to me, this is what the culinary journey is all about.

Photo credit: Sik Photography.

If you are/know a local I should feast with, please comment below! I’m always up for making new food friends. Oh, and join us on social via #EatingWithALocal for a sneak peek of the mouthwatering eats.