Samia Jannatul, Graduating Winter Term ’25, is a Political Science major studying at the American University of Rome this Fall 2024
I am a big foodie. So let’s start shall we!
1. Octopus
I’ve always loved seafood, but my experience with grilled octopus during a family vacation in Mexico last year was a disappointment—it was tough and lacked flavor. When I came to Italy, I felt like I needed a redemption meal, and I found it in Venice.
The best octopus dish I’ve ever had was served at a quaint restaurant tucked away from the tourist-filled areas. The octopus was perfectly tender, cooked to perfection, and paired with sauces that complemented its natural flavors beautifully.
One thing I’ve learned while traveling abroad is that the best food is often found in restaurants that aren’t packed with tourists or plastered with flashy advertisements. Initially, we were drawn to waterfront spots for their picturesque views and Instagram-worthy aesthetics, but after some social media digging and wandering, we stumbled upon a hidden gem called Trattoria Pizzeria Casa Mia, Venice, Italy.
When we arrived, we were the first ones to be seated. Without internet to distract us, we enjoyed authentic conversation—a rare treat. As time passed, locals began to fill the restaurant, hanging their coats on racks and settling in comfortably. The warm, homey vibe and the incredible octopus dish made it an unforgettable dining experience.
2. Turkish Breakfast
Another unforgettable meal came during my trip to Cappadocia, Turkey. Surprisingly, one of the best breakfasts I’ve ever had wasn’t at a fancy café but at my Airbnb, called Serene Hotels. They served a traditional Turkish breakfast that was simply extraordinary.
Hotel breakfasts typically run from 7 to 10 AM, and this one was no exception. It featured a spread of freshly made juices, aromatic Turkish teas, and an assortment of delicious spreads and cheeses. The quality of the food stood out—the remote location of Cappadocia meant that everything was made from locally grown ingredients, and you could taste the freshness in every bite.
From the vibrant flavors to the serene setting, this breakfast reminded me how food can elevate your travel experience
3. Korea in Paris?
When I think of Paris, French pastries and fine dining usually come to mind, but some of the best Korean food I’ve ever had was actually in the City of Light. My friend Paloma and I were feeling under the weather during our trip, so we decided to stay close to our Airbnb instead of venturing too far. Right around the corner, we discovered a cozy Korean restaurant called Seoul Mama.
We were craving something warm and comforting, and this place delivered beyond our expectations. Their ginger tea was phenomenal—spicy, soothing, and perfect for our sore throats. We also ordered a seafood stew with an incredible umami-packed broth that felt like a warm hug in a bowl. It was exactly what we needed to feel better and recharge.
What astonished me most about Paris was the popularity of East Asian cuisine, especially Korean and Japanese food. We noticed long lines outside Japanese restaurants and an enthusiastic crowd at places like Seoul Mama. It was such a pleasant surprise to find authentic, high-quality East Asian flavors in a city so renowned for its French cuisine.
This experience reminded me that food knows no boundaries—some of the most unexpected culinary gems can be found in the least expected places
4. Rabbit Stew
My trip to Valletta, Malta, was filled with stunning sights and unique culinary experiences. One dish that stood out was the traditional Maltese rabbit stew—something I had never tried before. As we wandered around Valletta, rabbit dishes seemed to be everywhere, from restaurant menus to advertisements. My friend and I looked at each other and agreed: if it’s such a big deal here, we had to try it!
We ended up at a charming little restaurant called La Pira. While the ambiance was cozy, the wait for our food was long. My friend and I passed the time making jokes, imagining the staff chasing a rabbit in the backyard to prepare our meal. But when the dish finally arrived, it looked amazing—and it was worth the wait.
The rabbit stew had a rich, hearty flavor, and the meat was tender and well-cooked. Surprisingly, it tasted a lot like chicken. I realized that enjoying the dish was more of a mental game; once I stopped overthinking the fact that it was rabbit, I was able to fully appreciate the delicious flavors and the cultural significance of the meal.
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