#food-travel

#food-travel

But so many of us travel for the distinct pleasure of eating: to visit hallowed dining rooms led by innovative chefs; to plop onto stools at markets for cheap, inimitable thrills; to forage, or harvest, or watch others wrest precious goods from the earth and turn them into beautiful dishes we can close our eyes and savour. For these travellers, we offer our list of the Best Places to Eat in 2026.

In 2002, Rachael Ray set off across North America and Europe with a budget of $40 a day for meals. The celebrity chef's show, aptly titled "$40 a Day," aired until 2005 on Food Network. Throughout these three seasons, Ray visited popular cities and tourist spots in search of unique, budget-friendly meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. She avoided massive fast food chains like McDonald's or Burger King, opting for more localized but still affordable options.

Chicago has always been considered one of America's greatest food cities-one where fully loaded hot dogs, deep-dish pizza, and ultra luxe 18-course tasting menus are revered in the same dining scene. You could practically fill a travel itinerary with places to get Italian beef sandwiches (à la The Bear) alone. The city's restaurants, cafés, and bars reflect the diversity of Chicago's neighborhoods, and knowing where to stay is the key to having convenient access to the best spots.