“European cuisine,” a restaurant sign said.
European cuisine???
What European cuisine?
European cuisine is as diverse as its languages, landscapes, and histories. We can’t simply lump them into a homogenous continental taste.
So, in this post, we’ll embark on a culinary journey through the continent, exploring the rich flavours that make European food so extraordinary.
And if you behave, dear reader, I may even suggest some culinary food itineraries. This way, you can eat, pray, love your way through the deliciousness.
You’re welcome!
Disclaimer: Europe is a vast continent with countless regional variations. This post is just a starting point for your culinary exploration. So please, get curious. This post is also limited to where I have travelled to/ food I have explored. There’s obviously soooo much more. And I am also highly biased.
German Cuisine is (Not?) the Wurst
When I visited Germany nearly 10 years ago, the food was NOT something I enjoyed.
As a long-time vegetarian, I was a little annoyed that even the French fries came with ham bits and were fried in animal fat.
But I was pleasantly surprised on a work trip to Berlin a couple of years back where I found a wide variety of fun, delicious eating spots in the vibrant city. Unfortunately, as a vegetarian, none of these spots offered traditional German cuisine.
German food is still heavily meat-based. Schnitzel, the endless variations on the wurst sausages, pork and chicken dishes dominate the main meals. I cannot attest to their deliciousness, but it does look very hearty (if not a little heart-attack-y).
Beyond boiled vegetables, there are some German–vegetarian options, like the German-version of mac-and-cheese: käsespätzle. German baked goods are also delicious. They have many gorgeous dark breads, yummy cakes, and, of course, it’s the home of the pretzel (vegan!).
For vegetarian versions of German cuisine, check out Forsters in Berlin. You’re welcome!
British Pub Grub
I detest “chip shops” and old-style pubs (including every Weatherspoons I’ve ever been to). They’re smelly, dusty and dark. Or worse, lit with operating-table fluorescent lights and reeking of cheap oil. The food at these places is also generally quite hit-and-miss. And more often than not, a greasy miss.
Thankfully, a sub-group of British cuisine has evolved significantly from the traditional pub grub.
Introducing: the gastropub.
These are pubs that serve high-quality food, and often offer a better ambiance, too.
Gastropubs create delicious, modern takes on British classics like the shepherd’s pie, fish & chips, and various pies.
And the wonderful thing about the UK is that they cater very well to a variety of diets. Gluten-free, vegetarian, vegan, nut-free… you’ll find something delicious for everyone.
The one thing I don’t mess with in the UK?
Traditional British desserts.
Be it the scones, sticky toffee pudding, or the god-awful Christmas cake that Brits like to set on fire, it’s a “no” from me.
I’ll eat everything else, though.
Except for the black pudding. (It’s made from congealed blood).
Swiss Cheese & Chocolate
Now, if I had to live anywhere in Potato Europe and settle for only having that specific European cuisine my whole life, I would choose Switzerland.
I would, however, be cheating.
Because Switzerland is Potato and Tomato Europe fused into one ball of deliciousness.
You have the Alpine lamb dishes, hearty stews, and cheese pies. (Yup, that gorgeous Swiss cheese with the holes). And you have the lovely dishes from their French side, including raclette and fondue.
And if that isn’t enough, there’s an Italian speaking area of Switzerland, too. So, hello Risotto and pasta!
And don’t forget dessert. Swiss chocolate. Swiss rolls. Swiss meringue. All the cakes and pastries… *salivates*
Switzerland really has it all.
Belgium: Half Potato, Half Tomato
Think of Belgian fries to Belgian chocolates to Belgian waffles to Belgian beer… yes, it’s ALL delicious!
(By the way, what we think of as “French fries” are actually Belgian. Just erroneously named by American soldiers during one of the world wars).
So if you’re looking to sample different cuisines and cultures without leaving one country, go to Belgium. You’ll find French, Dutch, and Flemmish traditions, all with numerous tasty treats to offer a food tourist.
Czech Beer & Dumplings
I went to Prague, and honestly cannot remember anything I ate.
This might be because the beer was cheaper than water.
Tasty, light, and so diverse! Czech beer is some of the best in the world.
But if you are looking for something to help you hold your alcohol down, you can check out their dumplings (knedlíky) and some of their stews.
People have told me that Czech food is comfort food.
And maybe it is.
I just don’t remember much of anything from my trip to Prague. Except for the beer and a very scary Russian man at the bar…
Tomato & Wine Europe
Tomato Europe, or southern European cuisine. Yessss.
The Mediterranean diet is as yummy as it is healthy (in moderation!). It’s also made for slow eating among friends and family.
I’ve spent a good amount of time in France, Spain, and Italy. Our family is currently living in Portugal.
If you’re looking for fun, sun, and yum, Tomato Europe is your jam.
Ze French: Oui, oui, mais ouias...
I did my Master’s in France. And from a culinary point of view, I have NO regrets.
From getting my daily ‘traditional’ baguette from the boulangerie, to the numerous cheeses and restaurant choices, France did not disappoint.
There aren’t always a plethora of vegetarian or gluten-free choices. The French are not known for their accommodating nature. But what you do eat will be delicious and to the point.
One of my favourite meals: soupe a l’oignon.
And I’m not even a soup person! French onion soup, however, is the best of the best. Hearty, flavourful, and perfect with a baguette.
You won’t find huge portions in traditional French bistros and restaurants. But you will find joy and delight. Check out yummy French pastries, as well. Macarons, chouquettes, tarts, eclairs… the choice is endlessly good.
Things I haven’t tried: escargots (snails), coq au vin (chicken in wine), frogs legs. At your own risk.
Spain: Tapas y Paellas Españolas
Diverse, enchanting, and spicy.
I met my husband in 2019 in the gorgeous Andalusian city of Granada. Found in the south in what I call the Moorish belt, the food was spicy and flavourful. Heavily influenced by North African spices and ingredients.
From patatas bravas (spicy potatoes) to paella, every ingredient is bold and explosive.
It might not be everyone’s taste, but every dish is definitely a statement.
And that’s just in the south.
There’s a whole culinary universe to discover. From Catalan cuisine in the east to Basque cuisine in the north, there is a whole lot of food adventure to be had.
(But full disclosure, the vino tinto, or red wine, in Spain, kinda suck. Get something French.)
Italiano: Pasta, Pizza, Gelato, Need I Say More?
Portuguese Food: A Kettle of Fish
If you’re vegan and want authentic Portuguese food… well, there’s no magic wand that can make that happen.
Unsurprisingly, Portuguese food is heavily based on seafood. It’s unsurprising because of it’s famous coastline and its long maritime history.
The most Portuguese of these is the bacalhau (super salty cod). But there’s a lot of diversity here – from octopus to prawns, from white fish to oily fish and red fish, crab, lobsters, and more. It’s a seafood lover’s paradise.
However, there’s a whole lot of fusion food from it’s former colonies. Brazilians have brought the barbecues (churrasqueiras) and the Africans brought some hearty stews.
Fish & Hard Liquor Europe
The Scandis are wonderful. And it’s not just their socialism or quality-of-life indicators. It’s their food!
I have fond memories of hard “pre-drinking” before partying. Alcohol in the clubs was so expensive that us students had to get to the dancefloor as tipsy as we could be.
But when I wasn’t totally drunk, I was having a beautiful time, eating beautiful food with wonderful, welcoming, warm people.
Iceland, Norway – you remain forever in my heart!
Icelandic Whales
Ah, Iceland. Honestly one of my favourite countries of all time. I say this despite nearly losing a pinky on the first day of my month-long stay. No regrets though – the pictures of the ethereal Icelandic winter would have been well worth a finger.
Icelandic cuisine itself is a fascinating blend of necessity and innovation. The harsh Nordic climate has dictated a diet rich in seafood, lamb, and dairy products.
You’ll find fermented shark and whale soup on the menu. You can even find a whole sheep’s head on your plate if you’re looking for an adventure.
For me? I fell in love with Skyr (vanilla flavour) – a thick Icelandic yoghurt that has since found itself in supermarkets across the world.
Danish Pastries
Danish cuisine is a delightful blend of simplicity and flavor. Smørrebrød, the iconic open-faced sandwiches, are a testament to this, with countless variations showcasing the freshest of ingredients.
Beyond the sandwiches, Danish pastries are a global obsession for good reason. Their flaky layers and delicate fillings are a true indulgence.
I once witnessed a local baker craft a towering cinnamon swirl pastry at the train station. The aroma lives in my mind, rent-free,
Norwegian Salmon & Cheese
Norwegian cuisine is a celebration of the sea and the land. Norwegian salmon and cod are particularly famous worldwide.
But it’s not just about seafood; Norway also boasts rich game dishes and hearty stews. Like a bowl of traditional fårikål, a lamb and cabbage stew.
But for my mostly-vegetarian butt, the star of Norwegian cuisine (and the star of my every Norwegian breakfast) was the cheese! Norway has a surprising variety of delicious cheeses, from mild and creamy to sharp and complex.
The Norwegians and the Dutch have a long-standing debate over who invented the triangular cheese slicer (pictured above). Strange point of national pride, but okay!
European Cuisine I am Yet to Try When I Travel There One Day
- Greece
- Turkey
- Sweden (only passed through), and
- Romania
Am I missing anyone? Drop a line in the comments!
European Cuisine I Have NO INTENTION of Trying
Before you recommend these places to me in the comments, please know I have no interest in this European cuisine:
- Polish
- Russian
- Hungarian
- Finnish
Not vegetarian friendly. Some of them are not very black-friendly.
Not going to risk my life for food.
Unless it’s Turkish food.
Send me into that warzone whenever.
Final Thoughts
Europe is a continent of incredible culinary diversity. From the simple yet satisfying flavors of the North to the vibrant and complex dishes of the South, there’s something to satisfy every palate.
So, what are you waiting for?
Start planning your European cuisine tour today!
Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a casual traveler, there’s no yummier way to experience a country than through its cuisine.
Comment down below with what you like to eat and I’ll suggest a European food tour itinerary based on your preferences!