Food Traps - We've all fallen for them; the guidebooks say you must try food places when visiting a particular city. So we join all the other tourists who've read the same guides and wait in long lines for what turns out to be overrated, mediocre, and often overpriced food.
Overhyped Eats: 10 Tourist Traps We've Encountered in Our Travels
Traveling can be an exciting culinary adventure, but sometimes, those hyped-up "must-try" spots leave a bitter taste in your mouth. We've scoured the globe and discovered these 10 overrated food tourist traps that are best avoided:
1. Peter Luger Steak House (Brooklyn)
This Brooklyn institution boasts a reputation that doesn't quite match the reality. The steak, though decent, isn't worth the hype or the hefty price tag. Save your money and appetite for a more memorable dining experience.
2. Berthillon Ice Cream (Paris)
While not terrible, Berthillon Ice Cream fails to justify the endless queues it attracts. Paris isn't known for its ice cream scene, so don't waste your precious vacation time standing in line for a mediocre scoop.
3. The "Original" Starbucks (Seattle)
Located in Pike Place Market, this coffee shop is a magnet for tourists seeking a photo op. However, the lines are often long, and the coffee is the same as any other Starbucks. Skip the crowds and grab a cup at a less touristy location.
4. Pat's & Geno's Cheesesteaks (Philadelphia)
While these rival cheesesteak joints are iconic, they often disappoint with their less-than-stellar sandwiches. Instead, ask a local for recommendations, as every Philadelphian has their own favorite cheesesteak spot.
5. Singapore Sling (Raffles Hotel, Singapore)
This overpriced cocktail, once a handcrafted masterpiece, is now a mass-produced disappointment. Skip the $20 concoction and explore Singapore's vibrant cocktail scene for a more authentic and flavorful experience.
6. Pink's Famous Hot Dogs (Los Angeles)
While Pink's has been a Hollywood staple since 1939, the 45-minute wait and underwhelming hot dogs aren't worth the hype. Explore L.A.'s diverse food truck scene for a more unique and satisfying hot dog experience.
7. Ted Drewes Custard (St. Louis)
This iconic frozen custard stand is known for its "concretes," thick shakes served upside down. While the novelty is amusing, the lackluster flavor leaves much to be desired.
8. Any Chicago-style Pizza (Chicago)
This deep-dish monstrosity is more akin to a casserole than a true pizza. If you're seeking a classic pizza experience, opt for thin-crust or New York-style instead.
9. Skyline Chili (Cincinnati)
While this regional favorite has its devoted fans, its unique flavor profile isn't for everyone. If you're curious to try Cincinnati chili, head to Camp Washington Chili for a more authentic experience.
10. Beer (Berlin)
While Germany is renowned for its beer culture, Berlin's offerings can be underwhelming for those seeking a wider variety of styles and flavors. However, the city's vibrant food scene, including its famous currywurst, makes up for the lackluster beer selection.
By avoiding these overrated tourist traps, you can free up your itinerary and budget for more authentic and enjoyable culinary experiences during your travels. Remember, the best food often lies off the beaten path, waiting to be discovered by curious and adventurous palates.
