• A global foodie bucket list

What if I told you that you could travel the world without ever leaving your dining table?

For us Sri Lankans, food isn’t just food; it’s comfort, celebration, rebellion (hello, midnight kottu), and even therapy. It’s the soundtrack to a sleepless study session, the surprise waiting in a lunchbox, or the warmth you crave on rainy days. 

Whether you are a globe-trotter, Netflix binger, or someone who plans their future vacation based on restaurants, here is a bite-sized bucket list of eight iconic global dishes every young foodie must try at least once!

Sushi – Japan 

Tiny, delicate, and full of umami, sushi is an art form. It’s not just raw fish on rice; it’s about balance, freshness, and ritual. If you are not quite there with sashimi, start with a California roll. And remember, soy sauce is for dipping, not drowning.

Tacos – Mexico 

Soft, crunchy, spicy, tangy, tacos are a party in your mouth. Imagine biting into seasoned beef or spicy beans, wrapped in a warm tortilla, topped with guacamole and fresh salsa. Bonus: you can eat them standing up while dancing.

Pasta Carbonara – Italy 

Creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying, this Roman classic is a hug in a bowl. Made with eggs, cheese, and crispy pancetta, it is proof that simple ingredients can create magic. Pair it with a good conversation and you are golden.

Croissant – France 

Flaky, buttery, and elegantly messy, a fresh croissant from a Parisian bakery (or a really good café in Colombo) is pure bliss. Eat it warm with coffee and pretend you are in a romantic French film.

Pad Thai – Thailand 

This sweet, spicy, and nutty noodle dish hits every taste bud like a firework. With prawns, tofu, or chicken, along with a squeeze of lime, it is street food that could win awards. You will be hooked before the second bite.

Shawarma – The Middle East 

Juicy meat wrapped in warm pita, smothered in garlic sauce, and filled with crunchy veggies, it is the ultimate fast food. Whether it is from Dubai or down Galle Road, shawarma has become a Lankan late-night legend.

Poutine – Canada 

Fries, cheese curds, and gravy; it sounds weird, but it works. This comfort food from Quebec is rich, warm, and wildly addictive. And let’s be honest, anything with fries deserves our attention.

Gelato – Italy 

Yes, another Italian gem. Gelato is ice cream’s fancier cousin – denser, smoother, and way more flavourful. Pistachio, hazelnut, or mango, it melts your heart before it melts in your mouth.

Did you know?

• Sri Lanka was once ranked among the top street food destinations in the world by CNN.
• The world’s most expensive pizza costs over $ 12,000 and is topped with caviar, lobster, and gold flakes.
• World Food Day is celebrated every year on 16 October, reminding us that food connects humanity, not just bellies.

Final bite

You don’t have to hop on a plane to explore the world’s flavours. Global cuisine is creeping beautifully into Sri Lankan cafés, food trucks, and home kitchens. The next time you are scrolling through a delivery app, dare to try something new. Travel with your taste buds, taste stories, discover textures, and feel the world one bite at a time.

And maybe the world won’t feel so far away when you are holding a taco in one hand and a gelato in the other. 

PHOTOS © BBC, PINTEREST,  LITTLE SPOON FARM, COOKLAIF, LEISURE ITALY