What Is the Difference Between Food Tourism and Culinary Tourism?

By Anna Duncan

When it comes to travel, food plays an important role in our experiences. For many, trying out local cuisine or seeking out the best restaurants is a highlight of their trip.

This has given rise to two popular terms – ‘food tourism’ and ‘culinary tourism’. But what exactly is the difference between these two concepts?

Food Tourism:
Food tourism refers to the act of traveling to a destination primarily for its food offerings. It involves exploring the local food scene, trying new dishes and flavors, and immersing oneself in the food culture of a region. Food tourism can include anything from visiting famous street markets and food festivals to taking cooking classes or going on culinary tours.

Examples of Food Tourism:

  • Visiting Italy specifically to indulge in authentic pasta dishes
  • Taking a trip to Japan to try sushi from its birthplace
  • Exploring the street food scene in Bangkok

Culinary Tourism:
Culinary tourism, on the other hand, goes beyond just trying new foods. It involves learning about the history and traditions behind a particular cuisine, understanding how it’s prepared, and interacting with local chefs and producers. Culinary tourism can also encompass visiting wineries or farms for wine or cheese tastings.

Examples of Culinary Tourism:

  • Taking a cooking class in Tuscany to learn how to make traditional Italian dishes
  • Visiting a local farm in France for cheese tastings and learning about how it’s made
  • Going on a wine tour through Napa Valley

The Difference Between Food Tourism and Culinary Tourism:

While both concepts may seem similar at first glance, there are some key differences between them. Food tourism is more focused on exploring the local food scene and trying out new dishes, while culinary tourism is about gaining a deeper understanding of the cuisine and its cultural significance.

Another difference lies in the level of interaction with food producers and chefs. Culinary tourism often involves visiting farms or attending cooking classes, which allows for a more immersive experience. Food tourism, on the other hand, may not involve as much interaction with the people behind the food.

Which One Should You Choose?

Ultimately, whether you choose food tourism or culinary tourism depends on your personal preferences. If you’re someone who loves trying new foods and exploring local markets, then food tourism may be for you. On the other hand, if you’re interested in learning about the history and traditions behind a particular cuisine and interacting with local producers and chefs, then culinary tourism is likely to be more appealing.

In conclusion, while both food tourism and culinary tourism are centered around food experiences while traveling, they differ in terms of focus and level of immersion. Understanding these differences can help you decide which type of experience will best suit your interests and preferences.