The sublime flavors in Japanese cuisine arise from centuries-old traditions and a reverence for pure flavors at their peak. Challenging eaters to refine their own palate, Japanese food is distinctive among both international and Asian cuisine. Among the centers of Japanese cuisine is, of course, the country’s capital, Tokyo – which has a total of ten Michelin 3-star restaurants.

When visiting Tokyo, sample some of the city’s diverse offerings: sushi, ramen, yakitori, okonomiyaki, tempura and chankonabe.

Chinese cuisine has a powerful capacity to transcend food cultures and thrive in every location, as demonstrated by the global migration of Chinese people and the subsequent – and vibrant – fusions that have evolved as a result. In Shanghai, this vitality is particularly evident. Shanghai, the epicenter of a migration movement that started at the end of the 19th century, is a melting pot for the gastronomic changes in the surrounding states over the centuries.

When visiting Shanghai, definitely sample dumplings, steamed crab, Peking duck, fish noodle soup and tangyuan!

Like Japan, Korea is surrounded by sea – and the bounty of these waters is omnipresent on dining tables. With spicy appetizers and kimchi (pickled vegetables) on the side, a wonderful Korean meal is ready.

In Korea, all dishes are served at the same time. An average meal consists of soup, rice, kimchi and a main course, complemented by banchan (appetizers). Seoul, the capital of Korea, is a culinary destination, featuring two Michelin-starred (3 stars each) restaurants, La Yein and Gaon. When you visit Seoul, be sure to sample kimchi, gimbap, bibimbap, eomuk and samgye-tang!

For more information about eating in Korea and other Far Eastern countries, click here.

Thai food is ubiquitous throughout the world and, fortunately, the country’s culinary traditions are becoming better represented. Whether a rustic country dish or a highly sophisticated royal feast, Thai cuisine is renowned for its artful blend of sweet, sour, salty, bitter, and spicy elements.

If you visit Bangkok, definitely sample these specialties: tom yum, tom kha gai, khao tom, yam neua yang and gai pad med mamuang.

Dynamic, cosmopolitan, and home to some of the world’s oldest civilizations, India’s vibrancy is reflected in its food. While each region has its characteristic dishes and ingredients, the country’s abundant spices are used generously in most dishes, from desserts to drinks.

As well, due to various influences over the centuries, Indian cuisine has incorporated influences – from the Mughals to the British.

If you happen to be in New Delhi, do sample bun kebab, chaat, samosa, dal bukhara, pakara and jalebi. Also, don’t forget that New Delhi is a paradise for street food.

Naturally, the cuisine of Pakistan is quite similar to that of India, also carrying traces of Mughal and other influences. However, over the years, Pakistan’s culinary traditions have developed into a unique and distinctive style, particularly in the south, where lighter, more aromatic flavors are spotlighted.

Like Chinese chefs, Pakistani cooks are experts at synthesizing local and foreign flavors based on fusion cuisine, especially in big cities. In this regard, Karachi is the richest city and cuisine in Pakistan.

If you visit Karachi, do sample biryani, nihari, handi, katakat, paya and Haleem.

Ah, mysterious Asia Minor….Lebanese cuisine is a piquant blend of spices and herbs like thyme and za’atar, and Mediterranean elements like garlic and olive oil. Beirut has been called the Paris of West Asia and its cuisine is equally legendary.

When you visit Beirut, be sure to sample hummus, tabbouleh, falafel, labanieh, mutabal and Lebanese salad.

In 2015, when Gaziantep was included among the UNESCO Creative Cities Network for gastronomy, there were only eight other cities worldwide on the list with this feature.

The cuisine of Gaziantep – another stop on the historical Silk Road – is notable. Kebab, of which there are more than 30 varieties, is the apple of the city’s eye of the city. In addition to the soups, the mezes, and the offal and vegetable dishes, Gaziantep is renowned for its baklava.

If you’re planning a visit to Gaziantep, check out our Blog on the Gaziantep, Hatay and Adana cuisines flavor routes.

Well, is it possible to write about Asian cuisine without including Istanbul – the intersection of East and West, the city behind Mount Kaf?

The cuisine of Istanbul, one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the world, reflects the city’s millennia of cultural heritage. Boasting the culinary traditions of numerous civilizations, Istanbul is one of the world’s most interesting gastronomic destinations. Doner, kebab, pide, olive oil dishes, appetizers, street treats and foreign fusions are the city’s most important tastes.

For a delicious dive into the magical flavors of Istanbul, you can visit the Tastes of Istanbul page.