With more people having no qualms of hopping on a plane just to eat their way around the world, it's no wonder why food or culinary tourism has become more popular over the recent years.

According to recent data, the global culinary tourism market is projected to reach $1.7 billion by 2027 as more tourists are expected to participate in food festivals, take cooking classes, and visit restaurants all over the world. 

If you're a budding foodie and you're thinking of going on a global food trip, one of the best ways to jumpstart your culinary adventure is to visit some of the oldest restaurants around the world. Not only will you have access to amazing flavors, but you'll also get a sense of what type of meals locals used to eat in the past.

Here are the most historic restaurants to get your fill of delicious food.

 

1. Madrid, Spain

Some restaurants that date back to the 1700s and 1800s still exist to this day, and Madrid is one of the cities where you can find these historic places.

One of these ancient dining establishments is Sobrino de Botin, which, according to Guinness World Records, is the oldest restaurant in the world. Founded in 1725, Botin is famous for its roasted suckling pig which is slowly browned in an old-fashioned wood-burning oven.

What you get is unbelievably soft and flavorful roast meat under a crispy layer of pork skin-- truly a must-have if ever you're in Madrid.

Famous writers such as Ernest Hemingway, Graham Greene, and Maria Duenas have dined here and have also featured the restaurant in some of their novels. 

Another place that you should visit on your culinary trip is Lhardy Restaurante.

This establishment was opened in 1839, and locals and tourists head to Lhardy for their cocido madrileno, which is a rich stew made with pork, potatoes, cabbage, and chickpeas.

Royals are said to frequent Lhardy, and in 1847, it was said that Queen Elizabeth II and her ladies-in-waiting escaped from the palace just so they could have dinner at the restaurant. 

 

3. New York City, USA

New York City has always been a favorite among foodie travelers since it's home to restaurants and eateries with the most diverse cuisine. But did you know that the Big Apple is also home to some of the oldest dining establishments in the USA?

One of the most historic New York City restaurants is the Fraunces Tavern, which has been around since 1762. It's a truly iconic place since it's where George Washington gave a farewell speech to the Continental army after the British army left New York in 1783.

The restaurant serves traditional American pub food, and must-tries include the Chicken Pot Pie and Reuben Sandwich.

The Ear Inn Soho is another historic restaurant that one should visit in NYC. It was established in 1817, and it started out as a bar before becoming a speakeasy during prohibition.

Enjoy cocktails, draft beer, and wine at this drinking establishment, but make sure to order some of their farm-to-table specials such as the Cowboy Chili or the Lamb Burger.

 

4. Kyoto, Japan

Craving for authentic Japanese food? Head to Kyoto, where you'll find a lot of restaurants that have been around for centuries.

One of these establishments is Harise, which has been in business since 1659. This place serves a Bento Lunch Box and Kaiseki lunches with over a dozen courses.

There's also the Heihachi Tea House Inn, which was established in 1576. Their Haute Cuisine menu changes according to the season, but they always have the Rice Bowl with Kyoto-style Grilled Eel, as well as the vegan-friendly Rice and Barley with Grated Yam.

If you're traveling with children, don't fret. Heihachi has special set meals for children that costs ￥2,300, or about $16. 

 

The world is full of amazing, historic restaurants where you can indulge in your love of food. Try visiting these iconic dining establishments and have a taste of the past.