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Asia’s most exciting food cities aren’t where you think. These under-the-radar destinations are cooking up the region’s next great gastronomic moments

- Fontaine Cheng

Asia’s culinary scene is often framed by its heavy hitters. Tokyo dazzles with precision and artistry, Bangkok delivers the riotous kick of spice and street food chaos, and Hong Kong flaunts its cosmopolitan diversity. These top travel destinations often dominate the conversation—the darlings of globetrotting food lovers and social media feeds. But, for all their brilliance, they can sometimes feel a little too obvious.

The real intrigue lies elsewhere—in places where food isn’t merely a commodity for tourism campaigns but an act of cultural preservation and everyday joy. These cities don’t clamour for global recognition; they simply get on with the business of being extraordinary. Their food speaks for itself—quietly, sometimes, but always with a sense of place and purpose that comes from generations of care. Together, they remind us why Asia remains one of the most thrilling playgrounds for the adventurous eater. All you need to do is let your appetite lead the way. If you’re ready to step off the well-worn path, here’s where to start.

CHAOSHAN, CHINA

In a country as vast and diverse as China, the regional cuisines often defy easy categorisation. Yet Chaoshan—a region comprising the cities of Chaozhou and Shantou in Guangdong province—stands out for its dedication to subtlety and freshness. Known as the home of Teochew cuisine, Chaoshan prizes clarity of flavour, with dishes that are as much about texture and aroma as taste.