How To Find The Most Authentic Local Restaurants

Do you ever feel like you're missing out on the true essence of a destination because you end up eating at touristy spots? Finding an authentic local restaurant can make a good trip unforgettable. But with so many options, how do you separate hidden gems from tourist traps?

In this guide, we'll discuss tried-and-true strategies for discovering the best local eateries, whether you're in a bustling city, a quiet town, or a remote village.

Authentic restaurants don’t just serve food; they serve culture, tradition, and a slice of local life. Eating where the locals eat means:

Traditional cooking methods, fresh ingredients, and generations-old recipes.

Authentic local spots often cater to residents, not tourists, so the prices are fair.

You immerse yourself in the community, interact with locals, and taste dishes you might never find in mainstream restaurants.

Now, let’s dive into how you can track down the best authentic restaurants wherever you go.

If a restaurant has a menu with pictures and translations in multiple languages and a waiter standing outside trying to lure people in, it's probably a tourist spot. The best local restaurants don't need to advertise—they rely on word-of-mouth and a steady flow of regulars.

Look for long lines of locals, especially during meal hours.

Check if the place is busy, even at odd hours—some of the best spots serve food late at night or early in the morning.

If you see families, office workers, or groups of older adults eating there, it's usually a good sign.

Join a community event or ask a local where they go for a casual meal. Most people love sharing their favourite spots!

The closer you are to a major tourist attraction, the less likely you will find authentic food. Many restaurants in these areas are designed for convenience, not quality.

Walk 5-10 minutes away from any major attraction before looking for food.

Explore side streets, alleys, and quieter neighbourhoods.

If a restaurant has a menu in only the local language, you’re on the right track!

Markets and food stalls often provide some of the most genuine food experiences. Morning markets and night markets are especially great for discovering local specialities.

While Google and TripAdvisor can be helpful, they often prioritize tourist-friendly spots. Instead, check platforms that locals use.

Google Maps (But In A Smart Way)

Read reviews written in the local language for more authentic insights.

Foursquare

Locals often leave tips about what to order.

Yelp (If Available)

Better in some countries than others.

Local Food Blogs

Search “Best local restaurants in [city name]” and look for articles written by locals.

Instagram & Tiktok

Searching hashtags like #LocalEats[City] can reveal hidden gems.

If you're in a country where street food is a significant part of the culture (like Thailand, Vietnam, or Mexico), look for YouTube food vlogs by locals—they often highlight the best-undiscovered places.

Some of the most delicious meals come from humble-looking street carts and family-run eateries. If a food stand has been in the same spot for years, it's likely because it serves fantastic food.

A steady flow of customers, especially locals, in work uniforms.

A simple menu with a few well-executed dishes.

Fresh ingredients are being prepped in front of you.

Street food is often the cheapest and most authentic food in many countries. Just choose vendors who cook food fresh rather than letting it sit out.

Sometimes, the best way to find authentic food is to ask. But who you ask matters.

Hotel Staff (But Not Concierge)

Front desk workers or housekeeping staff usually know better spots than the concierge, who might suggest tourist-friendly places.

Taxi Or Rideshare Drivers

They eat on the go and often know the best cheap eats.

Shopkeepers And Market Vendors

They’re locals who grab quick bites nearby.

Baristas Or Bartenders

They’re often foodies and can recommend hidden gems.

Instead of asking, "Where should I eat?" try asking, "Where do you go when you want a great meal?" This phrasing encourages people to give personal recommendations rather than the most famous (often touristy) spots.

Knowing a handful of food-related words in the local language can make a huge difference. If you can read a menu or recognize certain dishes, you'll have a better chance of ordering something genuinely local.

The names of popular dishes in that country.

“House special” or “Chef’s recommendation.”

“What do you recommend?” in the local language.

If you're feeling adventurous, point to a delicious dish at another table and ask for the same thing!

Authentic dining isn't just about eating where locals eat—it's also about eating what locals eat. Every region has unique dishes, and sometimes the best meals are the ones you weren't expecting.

Be open to trying new flavours and textures.

If a restaurant has a "daily special," order it!

Look for handwritten dishes on a board—these are often seasonal specialities.

If a dish sounds unfamiliar, ask the waiter or a local what it is. You might discover a new favourite meal!

Finding the most authentic local restaurants takes a little effort, but the reward is worth it. Whether enjoying a bowl of hand-pulled noodles in China, a plate of homemade pasta in Italy, or a sizzling taco from a street cart in Mexico, authentic food experiences make travel unforgettable.

Next time you're in a new place, use these strategies to eat like a local. You'll come home with great memories, a deeper connection to the culture—and maybe even a new favourite dish.