7 Traditional Cuisines Going Global in 2025 – So Proud!
In the past, regional foods were often confined to their places of origin. However, thanks to today’s technological advancements, many of these dishes have spread across the globe. Their worldwide recognition is largely due to viral social media moments, prominent chefs, movies, and the unique flavors that continue to captivate people worldwide.
By 2025, several traditional dishes have become international favorites, appearing in Michelin-star restaurants and featured in global food festivals. Are you curious about which dishes have become global sensations? Let’s explore them!
1. Rendang – Indonesia 🇮🇩
When it comes to Indonesian food that has taken the world by storm, Rendang certainly leads the pack. This iconic dish from West Sumatra’s Minangkabau region has even been declared the world’s best food by CNN in both 2011 and 2017.
Why Rendang Became Global:
- Distinctive flavor: The combination of robust spices and the slow-cooking process makes the beef incredibly tender and flavorful.
- Widespread availability: Indonesian restaurants are popping up in Europe, America, and the Middle East, bringing Rendang to more people.
- Vegan rendang: A growing number of eateries now serve rendang made with plant-based ingredients, such as mushrooms or young jackfruit, appealing to a wider audience.
Fun Facts:
- In the Netherlands, you can find a restaurant serving a “Rendang Croissant”, a fusion of this classic dish in a flaky pastry!
- Renowned chefs like Gordon Ramsay have even experimented with rendang, putting their unique spin on it.
Recommended Rendang Restaurants:
- Rumah Makan Sederhana (Jakarta, Indonesia) – A landmark restaurant offering authentic Padang cuisine in Indonesia and abroad.
- Pondok Djaja (Jakarta, Indonesia) – Famous for its traditional rendang, which remains true to Minang flavors.
- Padi Indonesian Restaurant (Amsterdam, Netherlands) – Known for its genuine rendang served in Europe.
- Indo Café (Seattle, USA) – A favorite spot in the U.S. for enjoying traditional rendang.
2. Kimchi – South Korea 🇰🇷
A staple of Korean cuisine, Kimchi has gained global recognition, especially due to the rise of K-pop and K-drama.
Why Kimchi Went Global:
- Health benefits: Rich in probiotics, kimchi is widely praised for promoting digestive health.
- Versatility: It now appears in many dishes, such as Kimchi Burgers, Kimchi Pizza, and even Kimchi Ramen.
- The Hallyu effect: The global popularity of Korean culture has made Korean food, including kimchi, more well-known.
Fun Facts:
- Seoul features a Kimchi Museum dedicated to showcasing the history and preparation of kimchi.
- In many European and American restaurants, kimchi is now a popular topping or part of fusion dishes.
Recommended Kimchi Restaurants:
- Jungsik (Seoul, South Korea) – A Michelin-starred restaurant that offers modern takes on traditional Korean cuisine, including kimchi.
- Gwangjang Market (Seoul, South Korea) – A bustling market where you can taste authentic kimchi made by local vendors.
- Kimchi Hana (New York, USA) – A restaurant renowned for its homemade-style kimchi.
- Banchan by Momofuku (Toronto, Canada) – A fusion spot that brings kimchi into contemporary dining.
3. Tacos Al Pastor – Mexico 🇲🇽
In Mexico, Tacos Al Pastor is a must-try, and it has become an international sensation. This taco, filled with marinated pork cooked on a vertical spit, is a unique blend of Mexican street food and Middle Eastern influence.
Why Tacos Al Pastor Went Global:
- Convenient street food: Tacos are quick to eat and full of bold flavors, making them perfect for on-the-go meals.
- Creative variations: Food lovers have started experimenting with different taco fillings, such as Rendang Tacos or even Vegan Tacos.
- Global food trucks: The popularity of food trucks serving Tacos Al Pastor has helped spread this Mexican delight far and wide.
Fun Facts:
- Mexico holds an annual festival to crown the best Tacos Al Pastor in the country.
- Today, you can find Tacos Al Pastor in major cities such as New York, Tokyo, and Jakarta.
Recommended Tacos Al Pastor Restaurants:
- El Huequito (Mexico City, Mexico) – Known for serving some of the best Tacos Al Pastor in Mexico City.
- Taquería Los Cocuyos (Mexico City, Mexico) – A legendary taco joint, open 24/7 to serve delicious Tacos Al Pastor.
- Tacombi (New York, USA) – An authentic spot in the U.S. for enjoying Tacos Al Pastor.
- El Pastor (London, UK) – A go-to location in London for top-quality Tacos Al Pastor.
4. Pho – Vietnam 🇻🇳
Vietnam’s Pho has become a beloved dish in cities around the world. This flavorful noodle soup, with its aromatic broth, rice noodles, and tender beef, is perfect for any meal.
Why Pho Became Popular:
- Healthy and light: Pho is light yet packed with flavor, making it a healthy choice for many.
- Expanding Vietnamese restaurants: More and more Vietnamese eateries are offering Pho in cities worldwide.
- Instant Pho: Several brands now offer instant Pho, making it easy to recreate this dish at home.
Fun Facts:
- Pho restaurants in Paris and London often have long queues due to the dish’s popularity.
- Many places now offer plant-based Pho versions, with mushroom broth and plant-based protein alternatives.
Recommended Pho Restaurants:
- Pho Gia Truyen (Hanoi, Vietnam) – A legendary restaurant known for serving the best Pho in Hanoi.
- Pho 2000 (Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam) – A famous Pho restaurant visited by former U.S. President Bill Clinton.
- The Slanted Door (San Francisco, USA) – A modern Vietnamese restaurant known for its high-quality Pho.
- Pho & Bun (London, UK) – A top-rated Pho restaurant with delicious broths and tender meat.
5. Ceviche – Peru 🇵🇪
Ceviche is a refreshing dish from Peru, consisting of raw fish marinated in lime juice and mixed with spices. Its light and zesty taste makes it a popular choice for many around the world.
Why Ceviche Became Global:
- Healthy and fresh: Ceviche is often part of a healthy, light diet, making it an attractive option.
- Fusion cuisine: Many fusion restaurants have adapted ceviche to suit local tastes, adding new twists with unique ingredients.
- Chef endorsements: World-renowned chefs have praised ceviche, elevating it as a premium dish in international cuisine.
Fun Facts:
- Ceviche now comes in many variations, including Tuna Ceviche in Japan.
- Peru has a National Ceviche Day, celebrated annually to honor this iconic dish.
Recommended Ceviche Restaurants:
- La Mar (Lima, Peru) – A world-class seafood restaurant famous for its authentic ceviche.
- Canta Rana (Lima, Peru) – A local favorite that serves some of the freshest ceviche in Peru.
- Pio Pio (New York, USA) – A Peruvian restaurant specializing in various ceviche dishes.
- Coya (London, UK) – A trendy restaurant offering innovative ceviche creations.
6. Jollof Rice – West Africa
When discussing African dishes that have gone global, Jollof Rice is a standout! Originating from West Africa, particularly Nigeria, Ghana, and Senegal, this dish has sparked debates over which country has the best version.
Why Jollof Rice Became Popular:
- Rich, flavorful taste: The combination of rice, tomatoes, peppers, and spices offers a unique flavor profile that appeals to many people.
- International festivals: Jollof Rice festivals are frequently held in cities like New York and London, adding to its recognition.
- Chef creativity: Well-known chefs like Gordon Ramsay have embraced Jollof Rice, each adding their twist to this African classic.
Fun Facts:
- The “Jollof Wars” are an ongoing debate between Nigeria, Ghana, and Senegal about which country makes the best Jollof Rice.
- Many African restaurants in the U.S. and U.K. have started serving Jollof Rice as a main dish, especially as vegan versions gain popularity.
Recommended Jollof Rice Restaurants:
- Enish Nigerian Restaurant (London, UK)
- Buka Restaurant (New York, USA)
- Chez Aunty Alice (Lagos, Nigeria)
7. Baklava – Turkey 🇹🇷
Baklava, a sweet treat made of layers of filo pastry and nuts, has become increasingly popular in global culinary circles. Modern variations like Matcha Baklava or Dark Chocolate Baklava are now found in many pastry shops across Europe and America.
Why Baklava Is Gaining Popularity Worldwide:
- Rich and indulgent: The combination of crispy pastry, honey syrup, and nuts offers a unique blend of textures and flavors.
- Modern twists: Variations such as Matcha or Dark Chocolate have made Baklava even more exciting for dessert lovers.
- Global exposure: Thanks to the rise of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine in international food scenes, Baklava has gained popularity in major cities worldwide.
Fun Fact:
- The origin of Baklava is widely debated, with many cultures, including Turkey, Greece, and the Middle East, claiming to be its birthplace. Regardless of its origins, it’s now a beloved treat enjoyed by many!
Famous Baklava Restaurants:
- Karaköy Güllüoğlu (Istanbul, Turkey) – A legendary bakery known for its authentic Turkish Baklava.
- Baklava House (New York, USA) – A well-known spot for delicious Baklava and other Turkish sweets.
- Café Anatolia (London, UK) – A popular place in London serving traditional and modern Baklava varieties.
- Lazzat (Berlin, Germany) – A bakery offering a fusion of traditional Baklava and European twists.
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FAQs
1. What makes these traditional dishes go global?
The primary factors contributing to the global popularity of these dishes include viral trends on social media, celebrity chefs showcasing them, their healthy or unique flavors, and the expansion of international restaurants bringing regional specialties to a broader audience.
2. Can I find these dishes in my city?
Yes, many of these dishes have become so popular that they can be found in major cities worldwide. From food trucks to Michelin-star restaurants, the globalization of these cuisines means you can now enjoy them in places far from their origin.
3. Are these dishes healthy?
Many of these dishes, such as Kimchi and Pho, are considered healthy due to their use of fresh ingredients and probiotic-rich components. Others, like Ceviche, are light and fresh, making them a great choice for health-conscious food lovers.