Chilly winter nights, one-pot wonders, tourists in Temple Bar. These are some of the phrases that spring to mind when pondering the humble Irish stew. However, “world-renowned cuisine” tends not to make that list, until now.
The Lonely Planethas released a new book, The Ultimate Eatlist, which details the top 500 gastronomic experiences in the world.
“Irish stew and a pint of the black stuff” snagged 47th place, so next time you groan when somebody plants a plate of meat and veg stew in front of you, remember it’s a cultural delicacy. Other Irish mentions include black pudding in (458th) and barmbrack just squeezes onto the list at 496th place.
Chefs, food writers and Lonely Planet authors nominated their best culinary experiences to compile the list. Each addition describes the experience, the culture behind it, and what makes the meal so distinct, from Bolognese ragu in Bologna (34th) to deep-fried tarantula in Cambodia (447th).
The nominated dishes were then evaluated by the travel company’s food editors, Australian celebrity chef Adam Liaw and food blogger Leyla Kazim. Contributors to the guide include top chefs José Andrés, Elena Arzak, Eric Ripert, Andrew Zimmern, and Monica Galetti among others.
Which dish claimed the top spot? Pintxos in San Sebastián. The diverse range of delicate tapas-like morsels is apparently best consumed with an accompanying drink, while bar-hopping across the coastal Spanish city.
Although nobody makes it better than an Irish Mammy, if you’re stuck on Irish soil and craving a steaming bowlful of Ireland’s top dish, we recommend the stew at Hatch and Sons on St Stephen’s Green.
Here is a list of the top ten food experiences to mark on your culinary bucket-list.
1. Pintxos in San Sebastián, Spain
2. Curry laksa in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
3. Sushi in Tokyo, Japan
4. Beef brisket in Texas, USA
5. Som tum in Bangkok, Thailand
6. Smørrebrød in Copenhagen, Denmark
7. Crayfish in Kaikoura, New Zealand
8. Bibimbap in Seoul, South Korea
9. Pizza margherita in Naples, Italy
10. Dim sum in Hong Kong
