Exploring local cuisine is one of the best ways to immerse yourself in a new culture while studying abroad. To must-try dishes in various cities across Europe, from the Nordic delights of Stockholm to the rich flavors of Florence. Here are some of the most traditional dishes from the places I’ve been during my time abroad. 

Köttbullar

Gravlax

Stockholm, Sweden 

– Köttbullar (Swedish Meatballs): These iconic meatballs, typically served with lingonberry sauce and creamy gravy, are a must-try. Pair them with mashed potatoes or a side of pickled cucumbers. 

– Gravlax: Cured salmon served with mustard sauce and fresh dill, often enjoyed on crispbread. 

Bergen, Norway 

– Fiskesuppe (Fish Soup): A creamy soup loaded with fresh fish and seafood, often flavored with dill and served with bread. 

– Klippfisk (Dried Cod): Traditionally prepared and served with potatoes and vegetables, this dish reflects Norway’s fishing heritage. 

Munich, Germany 

– Weißwurst (White Sausage): A Bavarian specialty made from minced veal and pork back bacon, flavored with parsley, lemon, and cardamom. Enjoy it with sweet mustard and pretzels. 

– Pretzels (Brezn): No visit to Munich is complete without trying a giant, soft pretzel, best paired with a cold beer. 

Frankfurter Würstchen

Frankfurt, Germany 

– Frankfurter Würstchen: These sausages are best enjoyed in a bun with mustard and sauerkraut, embodying the city’s street food culture. 

– Apfelwein (Cider): Sample this regional beverage made from fermented apples, often served in a traditional glass. 

Ljubljana, Slovenia 

– Potica: A traditional nut roll pastry filled with various fillings, perfect for dessert or a sweet snack. 

– Idrija Žlikrofi: Dumplings filled with potato and spices, usually served with a meat sauce, showcasing Slovenia’s hearty flavors. 

Kremšnita (Cream Cake)

Bled, Slovenia 

– Kremšnita (Cream Cake): This iconic dessert features layers of cream and custard in a flaky pastry, perfect for enjoying with a view of Lake Bled.

– Trout: Freshly caught from the lake, Bled’s trout is often grilled and served with seasonal vegetables. 

Predjama, Slovenia 

– Štruklji: Rolled dumplings filled with various ingredients, often served with a savory sauce or as a dessert with sweet fillings. 

– Local Game Dishes: Try traditional dishes featuring game meat, reflecting the region’s rich hunting traditions. 

London, England 

– Fish and Chips: Classic battered fish served with thick-cut fries and mushy peas, a staple of British cuisine. 

– Full English Breakfast: A hearty breakfast platter featuring eggs, bacon, sausage, baked beans, and toast. 

Edinburgh, Scotland 

– Haggis: A savory pudding made from sheep’s heart, liver, and lungs, mixed with oats and spices, traditionally served with neeps (turnips) and tatties (potatoes).

– Scottish Salmon: Freshly caught and often smoked, this dish showcases Scotland’s rich seafood. 

Glen Coe, Scotland (Highlands) 

– Venison Stew: A hearty dish made with locally sourced venison, root vegetables, and rich gravy, perfect after a day of hiking. 

– Cullen Skink: A creamy soup made from smoked haddock, potatoes, and onions, unique to the Scottish coast. 

Loch Ness, Scotland 

– Nessie’s Pie: A playful take on local cuisine, featuring a hearty meat pie often found in local pubs. 

– Scottish Shortbread: Enjoy this buttery, crumbly cookie as a sweet treat while taking in the stunning views. 

Goulash

Langos

Budapest, Hungary 

– Goulash: A rich, spicy stew made with beef, vegetables, and paprika, served with bread or dumplings. 

– Langos: Fried dough topped with garlic, sour cream, and cheese, perfect for a quick street food fix. 

Vienna, Austria 

– Wiener Schnitzel: A breaded and fried veal cutlet, usually served with potato salad or lingonberry sauce. 

– Sachertorte: A decadent chocolate cake with a layer of apricot jam, best enjoyed with a cup of coffee.

Salzburg, Austria 

– Mozartkugel: Chocolate-covered marzipan and nougat, named after the famous composer, perfect for a sweet souvenir. 

– Kasnocken: Cheesy dumplings often served with sautéed onions, a comforting dish rooted in local tradition. 

Prague, Czechia 

– Svíčková: A creamy sauce made from root vegetables served over marinated beef, traditionally accompanied by bread dumplings. 

– Trdelník: A sweet pastry rolled 

Bistecca alla Fiorentina

Florence, Italy 

– Ribollita: A hearty Tuscan soup made with bread, beans, and a variety of vegetables, including kale, carrots, and onions. 

– Bistecca alla Fiorentina: This iconic Florentine steak is a thick cut of T-bone beef, traditionally sourced from the Chianina cattle. It is typically seasoned with salt and pepper, grilled over high heat, and served rare.

Written by: Gianna, Fall 2024 Florence student from The University of Alabama