One of the best parts of traveling is being able to experience and indulge in different cuisines. That might make you think of jet-setting abroad, but we recently learned that there’s quite a bit of nuance right here in the states, and locally for Londoners, too. Read on for a taste of the hot foodie trends at the forefront of the culinary space right now.
Los Angeles: In-Season Produce and Single-Origin Spirits
Photo courtesy of Caipirinha Bar
Less is more in LA right now, with top restaurants highlighting singular, in-season produce. Case in point: the Munak Farm Watermelon with Maldon Salt at Caipirinha Bar in Los Feliz. The dish will only be on the menu during the fruit’s peak season, and then will be rotated out. In step with that sentiment is the single-origin spirits trend, as evidenced by the vast offering of mezcal from Oaxaca at Madre in West Hollywood.
New York City: Creative Cocktails and Edible Garnishes
Photo courtesy of Oiji Mi
Restaurants are getting creative to set their beverage offerings apart from those served in neighborhood bars. One method used at Contemporary Korean restaurant Oiji Mi: edible garnishes. The Vieux Carré called the 'Juju Vieux' (bourbon, date infused soju, lotus leaf, benedictine, cynar) comes with orange scented pearls to eat in between sips. Beverage director Chris Clark accentuates the spirit-forward drink with these pearls to add a refreshing citrus component, and the pearls also act as a mini palate cleanser to prepare you for your next sip.
San Francisco Bay Area: Purple Reigns
Photo courtesy of Rush Creek Lodge & Spa
Presentation has always been a key component of a standout culinary experience, with Instagram only accelerating the focus on photo-worthy food. Right now in San Francisco, that presentation happens to be in purple. Popular ingredients like ube and butterfly pea flower add a vibrant hue to dishes and cocktails alike, as seen in Rush Creek Lodge & Spa’s Sake Time cocktail.
Atlanta: Culturally-Relevant Vegan Food Culture
Photo courtesy of Slutty Vegan
Atlanta has long been a leading culinary destination, but Slutty Vegan Founder Pinky Cole is pioneering the city’s shift toward healthier fare and more conscious consumption. Her culturally relevant vegan restaurant concept has garnered lines around the block for her “burgers,” drawing in locals and tourists alike.
Miami: Seasonal Menus & Health-Focused Food
Photo courtesy of Pura Vida Miami
Locals and visitors are cooling off from the Miami heat with summer pre-fixe menus at some of the city’s top Mediterranean restos. HaSalon’s Summer Series menu offers seasonal faves like beetroot carpaccio and grilled fish with salat aravi, while KAORI is serving a chef’s tasting menu capped off with a refreshing koji key lime tart. Also top of mind in Miami: health is wealth. Pura Vida Miami makes wellness delicious and accessible with juices, wraps, bowls and more, all made with fresh local ingredients.
London: Culinary Transcends from Plate to Lifestyle
Photo courtesy of COYA Mayfair
In London, food is a lifestyle. Buzzy Peruvian restaurant COYA, known for its vibrant atmosphere cultivated through resident DJs, guest performances and more, has built out its music component through playlists, vinyls and beyond. Another take: TikTok stars are becoming culinary legends IRL, as seen by social star Tom Straker’s new restaurant, STRAKER’S.
