Welcome to our curated list of the 150 best legendary restaurants worldwide, each offering a unique gastronomic journey that is absolutely worth embarking upon at least once in your lifetime.
These are not just places to grab a meal, but destinations in their own right, comparable to the world’s most famous museums, galleries and monuments. Each one has withstood the test of time, eschewing trendy gimmicks in favor of traditional, high-quality cuisine.
Just as visiting Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna, exploring the ancient ruins of Pompeii in Naples, or gazing upon the enigmatic smile of the Mona Lisa in Paris are pivotal experiences in absorbing the cultural heritage of these cities, so too are the culinary adventures of tasting a Figlmuller schnitzel, savoring a Napoletana pizza at da Michele, or indulging in confit de canard at Bouillon Chartier. Bypassing any of these distinct culinary or cultural landmarks means missing out on a quintessential aspect of each city’s vibrant tapestry of history, tradition, and local flavor.
Honest, no-nonsense food
From small, family-run eateries to esteemed Michelin-starred establishments, these restaurants all share a commitment to culinary authenticity. Here, the focus is on real food with robust flavors, often using time-honored recipes passed down through generations.
We span across continents, exploring everything from dimly-lit taverns in Spain and rustic trattorias in Italy, to vibrant hawker stalls in Asia and cozy French bistros. Each restaurant holds its own story, preserving its culture, upholding traditions, and creating lasting memories.
These are establishments that have remained relevant and highly regarded in an ever-changing culinary landscape. Our list celebrates these enduring icons of gastronomy, the restaurants that prioritize substance over show, serving honest, no-nonsense food that is simply delectable.
1. Figlmüller
Vienna, Austria 🇦🇹
Restaurant founded in: 1905
Iconic dish: Schnitzel Wiener Art
Figlmüller, a venerable Viennese institution, has earned its reputation by specializing in a single dish - the Schnitzel Wiener Art - for over a century. The meticulous attention to the sourcing of locally bred pork and the precise cooking method results in a distinctively light, crispy schnitzel, making it a yardstick for this Austrian classic.
Figlmuller's commitment to quality ingredients, traditional recipes, and an enduring family legacy fosters an enduring love among both locals and global food enthusiasts.
Learn more about Schnitzel Wiener Art
2. L'Antica Pizzeria da Michele
Naples, Italy 🇮🇹
Restaurant founded in: 1870
Iconic dish: Pizza Napoletana
L'Antica Pizzeria da Michele in Naples has etched its name into the annals of gastronomic history as the purveyor of what many consider to be the epitome of Neapolitan pizza. By steadfastly adhering to time-honored methods and using the highest quality local ingredients, da Michele has consistently produced a pizza that offers a sublime balance of flavor and texture.
The soulful simplicity of its pizza, cooked in a traditional wood-fired oven, offers a testament to Naples' enduring pizza legacy.
Learn more about Pizza Napoletana
3. Hofbräuhaus München
Munich, Germany 🇩🇪
Restaurant founded in: 1589
Iconic dish: Schweinshaxe
At Hofbräuhaus München, the Schweinshaxe—crispy pork knuckle—is an embodiment of Bavarian culinary tradition, revered as much for its robust flavors as its cultural significance. Prepared following an age-old method, the dish serves a perfectly cooked, succulent pork with a golden, crunchy exterior, paired with traditional accompaniments like potato dumplings and sauerkraut.
Hofbräuhaus München's steadfast adherence to traditional brewing techniques and its embodiment of Bavarian cuisine have made it a global symbol of German gastronomy.
Learn more about Schweinshaxe
4. Gino e Toto Sorbillo
Naples, Italy 🇮🇹
Restaurant founded in: 1935
Iconic dish: Pizza Margherita
At Gino e Toto Sorbillo, the pizza Margherita stands as a symbol of Neapolitan culinary excellence, carefully crafted with San Marzano tomatoes, buffalo mozzarella, fresh basil, and local olive oil. This celebrated dish, fired in a wood-burning oven, delivers a perfect balance of a fluffy, charred crust and vibrant, fresh toppings, epitomizing the simplicity and authenticity of traditional Neapolitan pizza.
The pizzeria's ethos of quality and tradition resonates in every bite, offering a sublime foodie experience.
Learn more about Pizza Margherita
5. Paragon
Kozhikode, India 🇮🇳
Restaurant founded in: 1939
Iconic dish: Biryani
Paragon in Kozhikode, Kerala, is an emblem of the region's rich gastronomic history, celebrated for its mastery of traditional Malabar cuisine. The dish that reigns supreme is the biryani, a blend of rice, meat, and spices, steeped in age-old traditions and prepared with locally sourced ingredients.
The restaurant's enduring charm lies in its inviting atmosphere, coupled with the meticulous preparation of dishes that celebrate local produce and traditional cooking methods.
Learn more about Biryani
6. Tunday Kababi
Lucknow, India 🇮🇳
Restaurant founded in: 1905
Iconic dish: Galouti kebab
Tunday Kababi, a jewel in the crown of Lucknow's culinary scene in India, has gained widespread acclaim for its Mughlai cuisine. The star offering, the galouti kebab, is a culinary masterpiece featuring finely minced meat tenderized with raw papaya and an assortment of spices.
Its distinctive taste profile and the legacy behind its creation have garnered Tunday Kababi a devoted following, both domestically and internationally.
Learn more about Galouti kebab
7. Café de Tacuba
Mexico City, Mexico 🇲🇽
Restaurant founded in: 1912
Iconic dish: Enchiladas
Operating since 1912, Café de Tacuba is both a gastronomic destination and a living museum, preserving the nation's past in its vibrant, Baroque-inspired interiors. Its signature dish is enchiladas, a testament to the heart of Mexican cooking: corn tortillas rolled around a chicken filling, and draped in a flavorful chili sauce, garnished with cheese, sour cream, and onion slices.
The restaurant's commitment to authenticity and the consistent quality of their enchiladas has led to its widespread recognition and popularity among both locals and tourists.
Learn more about Enchiladas
8. Trattoria Vecchia Roma
Rome, Italy 🇮🇹
Restaurant founded in: 1916
Iconic dish: Amatriciana
Trattoria Vecchia Roma is a cherished institution renowned for its rustic decor, amicable service, and traditional menu. Their signature dish, bucatini all'amatriciana, stands as a testament to classic Italian gastronomy, with its enticing blend of guanciale (Italian cured pork cheek), pecorino cheese, and tomato sauce.
This pasta dish, known for its robust flavors and satisfying textures, beautifully embodies the simplicity and depth of Roman cuisine.
Learn more about Amatriciana
9. Warung Mak Beng
Sanur, Indonesia 🇮🇩
Restaurant founded in: 1941
Iconic dish: Ikan goreng
Warung Mak Beng has achieved legendary status with its singular dish - ikan goreng, deep fried fish dish served with a rich and spicy sambal sauce. Since its establishment in 1941, Mak Beng's uncompromising commitment to fresh, local produce and a tightly guarded family recipe has endowed its fare with a distinctive taste that transcends trends.
The uncomplicated authenticity of Mak Beng's recipes, paired with the warmth of its beachside locale, offers an enriching insight into Bali's traditional cuisine.
10. Peter Cat
Kolkata, India 🇮🇳
Restaurant founded in: 1975
Iconic dish: Chelow kebab
Peter Cat is an enduring culinary institution adored for its blend of Indian and continental cuisines. Its most popular dish, chelow kebab, is a unique fusion of Persian and Indian culinary traditions featuring skewered and grilled meats served with buttered rice and a half-cooked egg.
The combination of nostalgic ambiance, consistent service, and the unrivaled chelow kebab has established Peter Cat as a cornerstone of Kolkata's dining scene.
Learn more about Chelow kebab
11. Katz's Delicatessen
New York City, USA 🇺🇸
Restaurant founded in: 1888
Iconic dish: Pastrami on rye
Katz's Delicatessen isn't just a restaurant, it's a living slice of New York history. Since its establishment in 1888, the eatery has served up quintessential NYC cuisine, with their pastrami on rye sandwich achieving iconic status. The dish's perfectly cured, smoked, and seasoned pastrami stacked high on rye bread has won over generations of diners.
Katz's Delicatessen has become an integral part of the city's cultural fabric, recognized globally for its commitment to traditional food preparation methods and its nostalgic, bustling atmosphere that truly represents the New York spirit.
Learn more about Pastrami on rye
12. Karne Garibaldi Santa Tere
Guadalajara, Mexico 🇲🇽
Restaurant founded in: 1970
Iconic dish: Carne en su jugo
Karne Garibaldi Santa Tere is a renowned Guadalajaran restaurant that has gained international recognition with the delectable carne en su jugo. This traditional Jalisco dish features beef cooked in its own juice, accompanied by beans, bacon, onion, and coriander, and is much loved for its savory depth and flavorful combination of ingredients.
And to top it off, the wait for this specialty to be served shouldn't be long, as the Karne Garibaldi Santa Tere holds Guinness World Record for the fastest service.
Learn more about Carne en su jugo
13. El Pimpi
Malaga, Spain 🇪🇸
Restaurant founded in: 1971
Iconic dish: Pringa
El Pimpi is a beloved institution revered for its Andalusian cuisine and culture, a hub of authentic Spanish flavors hosting flamenco performances and art exhibitions. The restaurant's standout dish, pringa, a rich, slow-cooked stew of pork, chorizo, and morcilla (blood sausage), is a true delight for meat lovers. The dish's rich, deep flavors and succulent textures exemplify the rustic, home-cooked tradition of the region.
El Pimpi's authentic menu, cultural significance, and the hearty pringa have made it a much-loved fixture in Malaga's gastronomic scene.
Learn more about Pringa
14. La Fonda Del Tío
Bariloche, Argentina 🇦🇷
Restaurant founded in: 1978
Iconic dish: Milanesa napolitana
La Fonda Del Tío is a prominent dining destination celebrated for its authentic Argentinian cuisine, and its rustic charm and splendid views of Lake Nahuel Huapi have made it a sought-after spot for locals and tourists alike. Their milanesa napolitana, a breaded meat cutlet topped with tomato sauce, ham, and melted cheese, is a crowd-pleaser and a perfect fusion of Argentine and Italian influences.
The combination of La Fonda Del Tío's enchanting location and its expertly prepared milanesa napolitana have made it an essential visit in Bariloche's food scene.
Learn more about Milanesa napolitana
15. Hyman's Seafood
Charleston, USA 🇺🇸
Restaurant founded in: 1890
Iconic dish: Shrimp and grits
Established in 1890, Hyman's Seafood evolved from a dry goods store into a culinary institution, appreciated by local patrons and global celebrities alike. Their famous shrimp and grits feature fresh, local shrimp served over creamy, stone-ground grits, showcasing the restaurant's dedication to regional cuisine.
Through the exceptional quality of its shrimp and grits and other Lowcountry staples, Hyman's Seafood has secured its status as a beloved institution of Southern cuisine.
Learn more about Shrimp and grits
16. Amrik Sukhdev Dhaba
Murthal, India 🇮🇳
Restaurant founded in: 1956
Iconic dish: Aloo paratha
Since its humble beginnings as a small roadside food stall, Amrik Sukhdev Dhaba has grown into a must-visit destination for travelers on the Delhi-Ambala highway. Their claim to fame is aloo paratha, a stuffed Indian bread with a spiced potato filling, served with dollops of butter and homemade pickles.
This dish, appreciated for its homely flavors and hearty nature, is emblematic of the wholesome, rustic food that dhabas are famous for, and it made Amrik Sukhdev Dhaba the institution it is today.
Learn more about Aloo paratha
17. Casa Labra
Madrid, Spain 🇪🇸
Restaurant founded in: 1860
Iconic dish: Tajada de bacalao
Casa Labra is a historic restaurant highly respected for its traditional Spanish cuisine, and hailed as the founding location of the Spanish Socialist Workers' Party. The highlight of its menu is tajada de bacalao, a fried cod fillet that's crispy on the outside and tender inside.
This dish, cherished for its simplicity and exceptional taste, is a masterful representation of Madrid's long-standing affair with cod, and there aren't many places in the world that prepare it as well as the iconic Casa Labra.
Learn more about Tajada de bacalao
18. Peter Luger Steak House
New York City, USA 🇺🇸
Restaurant founded in: 1887
Iconic dish: Dry-aged porterhouse
Established in 1887, Peter Luger Steak House in Brooklyn has earned a sterling reputation, receiving numerous accolades including multiple James Beard Awards. The star of the menu is the porterhouse, a perfectly aged and charred steak served in portions for one, two, three, or four.
This dish, renowned for its exceptional tenderness and rich flavor, epitomizes the quintessential American steakhouse experience and makes Peter Luger Steak House one of its greatest ambassadors.
Learn more about Dry-aged porterhouse
19. Bouillon Chartier
Paris, France 🇫🇷
Restaurant founded in: 1896
Iconic dish: Confit de canard
Since its inauguration in 1896, Bouillon Chartier has provided an affordable classic French dining experience while preserving the aesthetics of the Belle Époque era. Their quintessential confit de canard (duck confit), a delectable dish where the duck is slowly cooked in its own fat until it's deliciously tender, reflects the restaurant's dedication to maintaining traditional French cooking techniques.
With its rich history and the irresistible allure of its duck confit, Bouillon Chartier stands as an enduring icon in Paris's dining scene.
Learn more about Confit de canard
20. Din Tai Fung
Taipei, Taiwan 🇹🇼
Restaurant founded in: 1958
Iconic dish: Xiao long bao
Established in 1958 as a cooking oil retail shop, Din Tai Fung later transitioned into a restaurant, becoming a global phenomenon with branches across the world. The restaurant's signature dish is the xiao long bao, or soup dumpling, a delicate and juicy steamed bun filled with a flavorful broth and pork.
This dish, celebrated for its intricate preparation and burst of flavors, embodies the culinary craft that Din Tai Fung upholds and firmly establishes it as a beloved icon in Taipei's food scene.
Learn more about Xiao long bao
21. Bolsi
Asunción, Paraguay 🇵🇾
Restaurant founded in: 1960
Iconic dish: Empanadas
Since its founding in 1960, Bolsi has been a significant culinary landmark of Asunción, recognized for delivering high-quality dishes in a welcoming environment. The highlight of its menu are the empanadas, pastries filled with a blend of meats, vegetables, or cheese.
These empanadas, loved for their crispy exterior and savory filling, made Bolsi a much-loved destination and a crucial player in Asunción's food culture.
Learn more about Empanadas
22. Caru' cu Bere
Bucharest, Romania 🇷🇴
Restaurant founded in: 1879
Iconic dish: Sarmale
Caru' cu Bere, a storied Bucharest institution, enthralls with its unique blend of Romanian cuisine and Gothic Revival architecture, establishing it as a touchstone of the city's cultural and gastronomic identity. Known for its traditional dishes prepared with time-honored recipes such as sarmale (cabbage rolls filled with meat), it provides a quintessential taste of Romanian culinary heritage.
Caru' cu Bere's commitment to preserving culinary traditions, coupled with its unique cultural atmosphere, has solidified its place as a beloved icon in Romania's gastronomic scene.
23. Pizzeria Starita a Materdei
Naples, Italy 🇮🇹
Restaurant founded in: 1901
Iconic dish: Pizza montanara
Founded in 1901, Pizzeria Starita a Materdei has become an integral part of Naples' culinary and cultural heritage, even featuring in a Sophia Loren film in the 1950s. What sets it apart from other iconic Neapolitan pizzerias is their montanara, a deep-fried pizza topped with tomato sauce and smoked mozzarella.
Through the unique allure of its pizza montanara and its cinematic history, Pizzeria Starita a Materdei maintains a revered status in Naples' culinary community.
Learn more about Pizza montanara
24. Hibiya Matsumotoro
Tokyo, Japan 🇯🇵
Restaurant founded in: 1903
Iconic dish: Kare raisu
Hibiya Matsumotoro is a historic landmark situated in the scenic Hibiya Park, offering a blend of cultural heritage and culinary excellence. Their emblematic kare raisu, a breaded and deep-fried pork cutlet served over rice with rich, flavorful curry sauce, demonstrates the restaurant's mastery of traditional Japanese cooking techniques with a Western influence.
Hibiya Matsumotoro's dedication to providing quality food in a tranquil setting amidst the bustling cityscape has secured its beloved status as one of the best places in Japan to try kare raisu.
Learn more about Kare raisu
25. Au Pied de Cochon
Paris, France 🇫🇷
Restaurant founded in: 1947
Iconic dish: Soupe à l’oignon
Au Pied de Cochon is revered for keeping traditional French cuisine alive in an era of ever-evolving culinary trends. Their soupe à l’oignon (French onion soup) is a symbol of French culinary heritage, exquisitely demonstrating the power of simple ingredients transformed through skill and time. What makes this dish beloved is the rich, heartwarming complexity of flavors drawn from caramelized onions, savory broth, and cheese-topped croutons.
It's a love born from the perfect marriage of comfort and sophistication that Au Pied de Cochon offers with its standout soupe à l’oignon.
Learn more about Soupe à l’oignon
26. Joe's Stone Crab
Miami Beach, USA 🇺🇸
Restaurant founded in: 1913
Iconic dish: Stone crab claws
Joe's Stone Crab holds an essential place in the culinary heart of Miami Beach, thanks to its century-old history and commitment to fresh, locally-sourced seafood. The flagship dish is the stone crab claws, sourced sustainably from the nearby Atlantic waters and served chilled with a side of their signature mustard sauce.
This combination of historical significance, dedication to sustainable sourcing, and a dish that has captivated palates for generations, solidifies Joe's Stone Crab as a beloved culinary landmark.
Learn more about Stone crab claws
27. El Rinconcillo
Seville, Spain 🇪🇸
Restaurant founded in: 1670
Iconic dish: Tapas
With its foundation in 1670, El Rinconcillo stands as Seville's oldest bar, bearing witness to centuries of the city's history and gastronomic evolution. Their tapas selection, an array of small, flavorful dishes served to accompany drinks, is the focal point of the menu.
Each tapa tells a story of local ingredients and traditional recipes, reflecting the rich history of Seville and its gastronomy, making El Rinconcillo its prime emissary.
Learn more about Tapas
28. Ä°mam ÇaÄŸdaÅŸ Kebap ve Baklava Salonu
Gazientep, Türkiye 🇹🇷
Restaurant founded in: 1887
Iconic dish: Alinazik kebab
Ä°mam ÇaÄŸdaÅŸ Kebap ve Baklava Salonu is one of the oldest gastronomic establishments in the city of Gazientep. The restaurant's signature alinazik kebab, a mouth-watering combination of grilled lamb served over creamy, smoky eggplant puree, is especially praised for its marriage of robust flavors and contrasting textures, drawing in both locals and tourists.
Its commitment to authenticity, coupled with a time-tested recipe that encapsulates the region's gastronomy, makes Ä°mam ÇaÄŸdaÅŸ Kebap ve Baklava Salonu one of the mandatory stops on the city's foodie tour.
Learn more about Alinazik kebab
29. Zeughauskeller
Zürich, Switzerland 🇨ðŸ‡
Restaurant founded in: 1926
Iconic dish: Zürcher Geschnetzeltes
Zeughauskeller, housed in a historical armory in Zürich, is cherished for its seamless blend of cultural heritage and culinary excellence. It is particularly famed for its signature Zürcher Geschnetzeltes, a traditional Swiss dish featuring thinly sliced veal in a rich, creamy mushroom and white wine sauce, typically served with rösti.
This dish's perfect blend of tenderness and flavor has gained a loyal following among both locals and visitors, solidifying Zeughauskeller's importance in Zürich's culinary landscape.
Learn more about Zürcher Geschnetzeltes
30. Cafe Imperial
Prague, Czech Republic 🇨🇿
Restaurant founded in: 1914
Iconic dish: Kulajda
Cafe Imperial, an iconic fixture of Prague since 1914, is cherished for its historical charm, art nouveau interiors, and commitment to traditional Czech cuisine. Its standout dish, kulajda, a classic Czech soup featuring a harmonious blend of creaminess, earthiness from mushrooms, and tanginess from dill, topped with a poached egg, is celebrated as a testament to the country's rich culinary heritage.
Cafe Imperial's ability to translate tradition into contemporary culinary art, best exemplified by the kulajda, has won not only the hearts of locals but also visitors, making it a cornerstone of Prague's dining scene.
Learn more about Kulajda
31. Güerrin
Buenos Aires, Argentina 🇦🇷
Restaurant founded in: 1932
Iconic dish: Fugazzeta
Pizzería Güerrin holds a cherished spot in the heart of the city's culinary scene for its authentic Argentine-style pizzas. Particularly noteworthy is its fugazzeta, a local pizza variant loaded with abundant mozzarella and caramelized onions on a thick, doughy crust.
Güerrin's steadfast commitment to quality and tradition, demonstrated through this signature dish, has been instrumental in shaping Argentina's pizza culture.
32. Mavalli Tiffin Rooms (MTR)
Bangalore, India 🇮🇳
Restaurant founded in: 1924
Iconic dish: Rava idli
Mavalli Tiffin Rooms, commonly known as MTR, holds a revered spot in India's culinary history. Founded in 1924 in Bangalore, it gained fame for innovating the now-beloved rava idli during World War II, a period when the staple ingredient, rice, was scarce.
This steamed semolina cake, notable for its soft texture and rich flavor profile drawn from yogurt, cashews, and spices, has since become a comfort food across the nation.
Learn more about Rava idli
33. Café Santiago
Porto, Portugal 🇵🇹
Restaurant founded in: 1959
Iconic dish: Francesinha
Cafe Santiago has etched a special place in the culinary world since its establishment in 1959, and has gained fame for its francesinha, a rich and indulgent sandwich that stands as a symbol of Porto's culinary tradition. This hefty sandwich, with layers of cured ham, sausage, steak, melted cheese, and a unique beer-based sauce, is loved for its heartiness and flavorful complexity.
It's not merely a cafe; Cafe Santiago serves as a culinary heritage site, with the francesinha playing a key role in portraying the city's rich gastronomic tapestry.
Learn more about Francesinha
34. Quanjude
Beijing, China 🇨🇳
Restaurant founded in: 1864
Iconic dish: Peking duck
Quanjude, founded in Beijing in 1864, has gained renown for its mastery in preparing the iconic Peking duck, solidifying its place in the culinary world. The restaurant's time-honored methods result in a dish with a perfect balance of crispy skin and succulent meat, showcasing the elegance and sophistication of Chinese cuisine.
As a custodian of this rich Chinese culinary tradition, Quanjude resonates with both locals and international diners, solidifying its reputation as the go-to place for the iconic Peking duck.
Learn more about Peking duck
35. Union Oyster House
Boston, USA 🇺🇸
Restaurant founded in: 1826
Iconic dish: New England clam chowder
Established in 1826, Union Oyster House in Boston is deeply woven into America's culinary fabric as the oldest continuously operating restaurant in the U.S. Known for its New England clam chowder, a creamy, hearty soup brimming with clams, potatoes, and onions, this dish encapsulates the quintessential flavors of the Northeastern seaboard.
The consistency in quality, paired with the rich historical ambiance, are key reasons why this establishment is cherished amongst food enthusiasts.
Learn more about New England clam chowder
36. Adega das Gravatas
Lisbon, Portugal 🇵🇹
Restaurant founded in: 1908
Iconic dish: Polvo à lagareiro
Adega das Gravatas in Lisbon, Portugal, carries a rich heritage of Portuguese gastronomy, with a distinct nod to tradition and authenticity. Its star dish, polvo à lagareiro, a classic preparation of octopus roasted with olive oil, garlic, and small potatoes, is an exemplar of the country's seafood expertise.
The texture and flavor of the dish, tender octopus juxtaposed with crisped potatoes, have garnered considerable praise from locals and tourists alike. This combination of culinary skill and tradition, encapsulated in their main dish, firmly cements Adega das Gravatas in the hearts of food lovers.
Learn more about Polvo à lagareiro
37. Zehnder's of Frankenmuth
Frankenmuth, USA 🇺🇸
Restaurant founded in: 1856
Iconic dish: Chicken dinner
Zehnder's of Frankenmuth has been a beacon of Midwest hospitality since the 1850s, welcoming millions of guests into its historically-inspired dining halls. Its famed family-style chicken dinner is the cornerstone of Zehnder's offerings, featuring platters of crispy fried chicken served alongside an array of homestyle side dishes.
The recipe, perfected over generations, results in a comforting meal that continues to draw crowds, making it a cherished part of the American dining landscape.
Learn more about Chicken dinner
38. Mother’s Restaurant
New Orleans, USA 🇺🇸
Restaurant founded in: 1938
Iconic dish: Gumbo
Mother’s Restaurant in New Orleans stands as a culinary landmark, its roots stretching back to 1938. This unpretentious eatery’s claim to fame is their legendary gumbo, a perfect blend of the region’s seafood, meat, and flavors. The dish's nuanced, layered taste embodies the generations of Creole culinary tradition passed down in this renowned institution.
Mother's has transcended being merely a restaurant, becoming a vital part of the city's identity, beloved by locals and tourists for its authentic regional flavors.
Learn more about Gumbo
39. UludaÄŸ Kebapçısı Cemal & Cemil Usta
Bursa, Türkiye 🇹🇷
Restaurant founded in: 1964
Iconic dish: Ä°skender kebap
UludaÄŸ Kebapçısı Cemal & Cemil Usta is a cherished kebab house in Bursa, gaining its reputation through decades of culinary dedication. The star of their menu is the Ä°skender kebab, a dish with deep roots in Turkish gastronomy. This kebab is a testament to balance and flavor, featuring thinly sliced grilled lamb dressed with tomato sauce, served over pieces of pita, all drizzled with hot, melted sheep butter and yogurt.
This classic dish, carefully crafted with the highest quality ingredients, maintains an authenticity that captivates both locals and tourists. Furthermore, the passionate commitment of the staff to preserving the integrity of traditional Turkish gastronomy has resulted in unparalleled consistency over the years.
Learn more about Ä°skender kebap
40. Brasserie Georges
Lyon, France 🇫🇷
Restaurant founded in: 1836
Iconic dish: Choucroute garnie
Brasserie Georges, a stalwart of Lyon's culinary scene since 1836, is cherished for its commitment to traditional French cuisine. Their choucroute garnie, a hearty Alsatian dish, is an exemplary union of sauerkraut, various sausages, and other salted meats, embodying rustic French cooking at its finest.
The brasserie's stunning Art Deco ambiance, consistency in delivering high-quality food, and its ability to preserve a piece of Lyon's gastronomic heritage enhance its appeal.
Learn more about Choucroute garnie
41. Antica Pizzeria e Friggitoria Di Matteo
Naples, Italy 🇮🇹
Restaurant founded in: 1936
Iconic dish: Pizza fritta
Antica Pizzeria e Friggitoria Di Matteo is a Neapolitan pizza institution that has been serving its faithful patrons since the 1930s, and their pizza fritta managed to secure its place among the legendary dishes of this culinary heaven. Crisp on the outside, filled with savory ingredients and molten cheese inside, and finally deep-fried, pizza fritta offers a distinctively indulgent interpretation of Neapolitan cuisine.
Antica Pizzeria e Friggitoria Di Matteo's commitment to authenticity and the unparalleled taste of its pizza fritta are the reasons this small pizzeria is a must on every foodie's itinerary.
Learn more about Pizza fritta
42. Commander's Palace
New Orleans, USA 🇺🇸
Restaurant founded in: 1893
Iconic dish: Turtle soup
Commander's Palace, an iconic landmark in New Orleans since 1893 renowned as a training ground for world-renowned chefs, holds an irreplaceable spot in the city's culinary scene with its emblematic turtle soup. This labor-intensive masterpiece of Creole cuisine uses locally sourced turtle meat, a roux base, and a splash of sherry to deliver a symphony of flavors and textures.
The enduring popularity of Commander's Palace is intimately tied to turtle soup, a beloved dish that embodies the restaurant's dedication to preserving and enhancing Creole traditions.
Learn more about Turtle soup
43. 7 Mehmet
Antalya, Türkiye 🇹🇷
Restaurant founded in: 1937
Iconic dish: Ä°ç pilav
7 Mehmet, an esteemed culinary destination in Antalya since its establishment in 1937, is celebrated for perfecting the art of Ä°ç pilav, a quintessential dish in Turkish cuisine. This rice masterpiece, often recommended by connoisseurs like Vedat Milor, is a testament to the restaurant's commitment to traditional flavors, infused with a distinctive combination of bergamot, pumpkin, and almonds.
The reputation of 7 Mehmet is deeply entwined with its Ä°ç pilav, an emblematic creation that has become a symbol of the restaurant's passion for culinary excellence and authenticity.
Learn more about Ä°ç pilav
44. Restaurante Botín
Madrid, Spain 🇪🇸
Restaurant founded in: 1725
Iconic dish: Cochinillo asado
Restaurante Botín in Madrid, with its doors open since 1725, stands as a testament to timeless culinary traditions, proudly holding the title of the oldest restaurant in the world according to the Guinness Book of Records. Its cochinillo asado, a sumptuous roast suckling pig, is a beloved dish acclaimed for its succulent and flavorful meat, which is remarkably lean and not oily.
Esteemed for its adherence to traditional cooking methods, Botín's cochinillo asado is not merely a meal; it's a historic experience that has been savored over centuries, even becoming a favorite of the famed American author, Ernest Hemingway.
Learn more about Cochinillo asado
45. Früh am Dom
Cologne, Germany 🇩🇪
Restaurant founded in: 1904
Iconic dish: Sauerbraten
Früh am Dom, a cornerstone of Cologne's hospitality since 1904, is a vibrant meeting place where tradition and taste converge, particularly celebrated for its Sauerbraten, a marinated roast typically served with red cabbage and dumplings. Housed in a historic setting that has withstood the ravages of time, including the devastations of World War II, Früh am Dom has been a resilient symbol of the city's gastronomic scene.
Früh am Dom stands as a custodian of Cologne's rich heritage, offering a Sauerbraten that is both a tribute to the traditional German kitchen and a testament to the enduring legacy of the establishment.
Learn more about Sauerbraten
46. Tri Šešira
Belgrade, Serbia 🇷🇸
Restaurant founded in: 1864
Iconic dish: KaraÄ‘orÄ‘eva šnicla
Tri Šešira, nestled in the heart of Belgrade's bohemian quarter Skadarlija, serves as an authentic ambassador of Serbia's rich culinary heritage, particularly through its signature dish, the KaraÄ‘orÄ‘eva šnicla. This dish, a breaded veal or pork steak stuffed with kajmak cheese, is revered for its quality and consistency and satisfies the cravings of both locals and international visitors.
The beloved eatery stands as an epitome of Serbian hospitality and culinary tradition, with its signature dish offering an immersive experience of its cultural history and flavors.
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47. Hanu' lui Manuc
Bucharest, Romania 🇷🇴
Restaurant founded in: 1808
Iconic dish: Mititei
Hanu' lui Manuc in Bucharest is a renowned restaurant celebrated for its traditional Romanian cuisine. Especially praised are their mititei, a traditional Romanian dish of grilled ground meat rolls seasoned with a mix of spices.
Along its rich historical backdrop, these Mititei, cherished for their smoky aroma and robust flavors, ensure that every visit to Hanu' lui Manuc will be a sensory delight.
48. Thip Samai
Bangkok, Thailand 🇹ðŸ‡
Restaurant founded in: 1939
Iconic dish: Pad thai
Thip Samai, heralded as the originator of pad thai in Thailand, has cultivated its legendary reputation since 1939. With beginnings that trace back to selling pad thai on a boat along the Phasi Charoen Canal during World War II, the culinary narrative of Thip Samai is steeped in tradition and national pride.
Thip Samai's commitment to preserving the authentic recipe, which includes their distinctive pad thai sen-chan with shrimp oil and prawns wrapped in egg, has earned it worldwide acclaim.
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49. The Salt Lick BBQ
Driftwood, USA 🇺🇸
Restaurant founded in: 1967
Iconic dish: Texas-style BBQ
Situated in Driftwood, Texas, The Salt Lick BBQ is a renowned eatery acclaimed for its authentic traditional Texas-style barbecue. Since 1967, it has championed the low-and-slow cooking technique that is a hallmark of this culinary tradition, with the meat savored for its tender texture and deep, rich flavors enhanced by a secret family dry rub.
The Salt Lick BBQ's dedication to time-honored cooking methods and the delectable variety of meats on offer have made it a much-loved highlight in the Texas barbecue scene.
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50. La Pepica
Valencia, Spain 🇪🇸
Restaurant founded in: 1898
Iconic dish: Paella Valenciana
La Pepica, an emblematic culinary institution on Valencia's seafront promenade, has been mastering the art of paella for over 125 years. Rooted deeply in the cultural fabric of Valencia, the cradle of this iconic dish, La Pepica continues the legacy of founders Francisco Balaguer Aranda and Josefa Marqués Sanchís.
The restaurant, a favorite among a diverse clientele including the King of Spain, maintains a decor that pays homage to its rich history and the essence of Mediterranean culture, while providing a space for over 450 diners to enjoy the scenic beachfront and savor the taste of authentic Valencian cuisine.
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58. Schwartz's Deli
Montreal, Canada 🇨🇦
Restaurant founded in: 1928
Iconic dish: Montreal-style smoked meat
Schwartz's Deli, situated in Montreal, Canada, is a venerable institution celebrated for its traditional Jewish deli offerings. Their signature dish, Montreal-style smoked meat, encapsulates the timeless appeal of deli cuisine with its layers of juicy, spiced, smoked brisket served on rye bread with a dash of mustard.
Schwartz's Deli's enduring success is owed to its commitment to tradition, consistency, and the unparalleled taste of its Montreal-style smoked meat.
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61. Yoshizuka Unagi
Fukuoka, Japan 🇯🇵
Restaurant founded in: 1873
Iconic dish: Unadon
Yoshizuka Unagi in Fukuoka is a venerated eatery known for its mastery over one dish - unadon, or grilled eel over rice, making it a must-visit destination for local and international food enthusiasts alike. Their unagi, glazed with a sweet and savory soy-based sauce and grilled to perfection, offers a rich, melt-in-your-mouth experience that has enthralled diners for generations.
Moreover, the intimate, unpretentious setting of Yoshizuka Unagi, coupled with its impeccable service, creates an atmosphere that further enhances its appeal and creates a link to Japan's gastronomic heritage, providing an authentic dining experience.
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64. Koshary Abou Tarek
Cairo, Egypt 🇪🇬
Restaurant founded in: 1963
Iconic dish: Koshary
Koshary Abou Tarek is a cherished institution that has been serving Egypt's national dish, koshary, for decades. This comfort food, a delicious medley of lentils, rice, macaroni, chickpeas, crispy fried onions, and a tangy tomato-vinegar sauce, is beloved for its affordability and satisfying flavors, with Abou Tarek's version widely regarded as unrivaled.
The establishment's unwavering dedication to maintaining the traditional taste of koshary has earned it the loyalty of locals and the fascination of tourists.
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71. KiskÅ‘rössy Halászcsárda
Szeged, Hungary ðŸ‡ðŸ‡º
Restaurant founded in: 1930
Iconic dish: Halászlé
KiskÅ‘rössy Halászcsárda, a Hungarian fisherman's tavern, is most renowned for its halászlé, spicy, paprika-laden fisherman's soup prepared with river fish, embodying the rustic spirit of Hungarian cuisine. Prepared with skill and patience, this hearty dish blends tradition and taste, creating a warm, comforting meal enjoyed by locals and tourists for almost 100 years.
KiskÅ‘rössy Halászcsárda is also treasured for its warm, inviting ambience and idyllic riverside location, offering diners a delightful sensory experience.
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77. Jumbo Seafood
Singapore 🇸🇬
Restaurant founded in: 1987
Iconic dish: Chilli crab
Jumbo Seafood in Singapore renowned for introducing many to the country's iconic chilli crab. The dish, prepared with fresh crab in a sweet, spicy, and savory sauce, has become synonymous with the Jumbo name, creating a sensory experience that has entranced both locals and global gastronomes.
The restaurant captures the spirit of Singapore's multicultural culinary scene, and its chilli crab, served with mantou buns, is a symbol of the city's love for seafood.
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101. Cà D'Oro alla Vedova
Venice, Italy 🇮🇹
Restaurant founded in: 1891
Iconic dish: Polpette
Cà D'Oro alla Vedova is revered for its authentic, rustic Venetian charm, and its importance rests on its preservation of centuries-old culinary tradition in a city transformed by tourism. The eatery's polpette, crisply meatballs fried to golden perfection and beloved by regulars, are a reflection of the simple yet soulful Venetian cooking.
These sought-after delicacies, coupled with the welcoming ambience, make Cà D'Oro alla Vedova a beloved culinary landmark.
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110. Mocotó
São Paulo, Brazil 🇧🇷
Restaurant founded in: 1973
Iconic dish: Mocotó
Mocotó in Sao Paulo is a culinary gem that is known for transforming humble, local ingredients into gastronomic delights. The main attraction is their signature dish, mocotó, a hearty cow's feet stew that encapsulates the soulful, rustic flavors of the region.
The unique gastronomic experience, coupled with the restaurant's commitment to sourcing local ingredients, has endeared Mocotó to both locals and international visitors, making it not only important but also truly beloved.
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124. Sapporo Beer Garden
Sapporo, Japan 🇯🇵
Restaurant founded in: 1966
Iconic dish: Jingisukan
The Sapporo Beer Garden in Japan offers a one-of-a-kind blend of history, gastronomy, and culture, and its significance is derived from its role as a symbol of Sapporo's history, reflected in its grand red-brick architecture and its role as an original Sapporo brewery. The signature dish is jingisukan, a hearty, succulent mutton barbecue named after the Mongolian warrior, cooked on a dome-shaped metal skillet
The joy of grilling your own meat, paired with a fresh pint of Sapporo beer, provides a uniquely engaging dining experience.
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141. The Carnivore
Nairobi, Kenya 🇰🇪
Restaurant founded in: 1980
Iconic dish: Nyama choma
Nairobi's Carnivore restaurant, with its flagship dish, nyama choma, represents an indispensable part of Kenyan culinary culture. The iconic meal, which translates to "barbecued meat," epitomizes the all-you-can-eat meat experience, offering various meats roasted on a traditional Maasai sword over a charcoal pit. From chicken and pork to ostrich and crocodile, the menu is a thrilling adventure for meat-lovers.
The Carnivore's reputation as a meat lover's paradise thus makes it a beloved institution and a bucket-list experience in Nairobi.
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145. Tosokchon
Seoul, South Korea 🇰🇷
Restaurant founded in: 1983
Iconic dish: Samgyetang
Tosokchon, tucked away in the busy streets of Seoul, holds an esteemed status in South Korea's culinary scene due to its exceptional rendition of samgyetang, a traditional ginseng chicken soup. This dish, known for its revitalizing properties, is prepared meticulously, filling whole young chickens with sweet rice, ginseng, dates, and chestnuts before being simmered into a rich, hearty broth.
In the realm of South Korean cuisine, Tosokchon is adored not just for its food, but for carrying forward a cherished culinary tradition with dedication and authenticity.
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