Attention all foodies! If you’re been craving an international getaway that you can really sink your teeth into, these delectable food museums can serve up some truly unforgettable experiences for your next culinary adventure. Whether you’d like something savory, sweet, or somewhere in between, we’re sure there’s something on the menu that’s sure to whet your appetite:
Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum, Japan
This Japenese museum describes itself as a “food-themed amusement park,” and it certainly lives up to the hype. Founded in 1994, the theme park was created to educate visitors about the history of ramen noodles while offering an array of noodle-based dishes from around the world. Guests can explore the three-story museum while enjoying an international gastronomic experience, including a delightful sweets shop at the end of the carb-heavy tour. And if the nine ramen shops don’t quite satisfy your palette, you can head to the Japanese Cup Noodles Museum to learn about the history and “birthplace” of instant noodles.
The Coffee Palace, Brazil
If you need a caffeinated pick-me-up, head over to The Coffee Palace in Brazil! Up until 1950, this spectacular museum actually used to price and sell coffee beans, which was Brazil’s most important export. Today, the stunning building still reflects the economic importance of the coffee trade with its stained glass windows, marble floors, and statues of Greek gods Mercury and Ceres. The two floors of the museum include the authentic trading table that was used throughout the early 1900’s, scales, dioramas, tasting tables, and a cafe with an array of coffee blends from around Brazil.
Alkmaar Cheese Museum, Netherlands
Located on the two floors above the Cheese Weigh House in Alkmaar, this museum is dedicated primarily to the two most famous Dutch cheeses: Edam and Gouda. Learn all about the history and the craft of making cheese in the Netherlands as you enjoy interactive exhibits and guided tours. You’ll be able to check out different implements used to make cheese throughout the ages and enjoy the traditional Alkmaar cheese market at the end of your tour. The market has been a staple in Alkmaar since 1365, so any enthusiastic cheese connoisseur should definitely add this historic, centuries-old tradition to their bucket list!
Museu de la Xocolata, Spain
The Museu de la Xocolata, or the Chocolate Museum, in Barcelona is guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth! Visitors are given a small piece of chocolate upon entry, and it only gets better from there. Guests will learn about the discovery of cacao, the history of chocolate trading, and how to engage all their senses while eating the treat by employing different tasting techniques. Along with in-depth history lessons about chocolate and pastry, the Chocolate Museum also offers several other indulgent experiences, such as guided tours, themed dinners, dessert classes and workshops, wine and brandy pairing, and kid-friendly activities.
St. Martin’s Croissant Museum, Poland
This Polish museum is completely dedicated to a single pastry, known as the “rogale świętomarcińskie” or “St. Martin’s Croissant.” This specific croissant is actually legally protected by the European Union, as the EU recognizes it as a “Protected Geographical Indicator.” If you’re wondering what makes this pastry so special, St. Martin’s Croissant Museum will happily teach you the history of the croissant as you engage in a hands-on bakery experience where you can learn exactly how to make this Polish delicacy. And don’t worry: you’ll be able to eat plenty of fresh-baked goods!
The Dessert Museum, Philippines
In the Pasay region of the Philippines, you can finally feel free to release your inner child at the Dessert Museum. Immediately after purchasing your ticket, you’ll get to literally slide down into a brightly-colored museum featuring eight massive rooms dedicated to various sweet treats. It’s safe to say you’ll feel like a kid in a candy store as you sample cupcakes, donuts, cookies, and other sugary desserts while learning fun facts and information about each item. For a truly unique experience, you can even book the museum for an exclusive date, photo shoot, birthday party, or another special event!
Final tips
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