Brits Ditching Chicken Tikka Masala for Jerk Chicken and Pierogi?

Forget fish and chips! Brits are ditching traditional favourites for a taste of the unexpected, according to a surprising new study by European Waterways. 

The travel experts analysed TripAdvisor reviews to crown the top-rated cuisines in major UK cities, and the results are sure to leave your taste buds tingling!

Londoners, known for their love of a good curry, might be surprised to learn their top cuisine isn’t Indian. Instead, it’s the spicy, smoky flavours of Jamaica that reign supreme, with a whopping 25.37% of Jamaican restaurants receiving five-star reviews! Greek and Germany followed closely behind, proving Brits were ready to broaden their horizons.

Meanwhile, Manchester’s culinary scene is getting a Polish polish! A massive 50% of Polish restaurants in the city scored the coveted five-star rating, making them the clear winner. French cuisine held its own at a respectable 35%, but it seems Manchester has a newfound love for pierogi and kielbasa.

Birmingham echoes London’s love for Jamaican food, with Jerk Chicken taking the top spot. Greek and French followed in a close second, showing Birmingham’s diverse palate.

Leeds ditches the bland for the bold! Vietnamese cuisine emerged victorious with 28.57% of restaurants receiving five-star praise. Mexican food also sizzled its way onto the podium, proving Leeds is ready to spice things up.

And finally, Liverpool throws a curveball with Brazilian cuisine taking the top spot at 27.27%! French and Vietnamese cuisine also scored highly, making Liverpool a true melting pot of flavours.

Data breakdown, UK Destinations: 

London 

Jamaican: 25.37% of restaurants rated five-star

Greek: 22.81% of restaurants rated five-star 

German: 22.64% of restaurants rated five-star 

Manchester 

Polish: 50% of restaurants rated five-star

French: 35% of restaurants rated five-star

Spanish, Belgian: 30% of restaurants rated five-star

Birmingham 

Jamaican: 31.25% of restaurants rated five-star

Greek, French: 26.32% of restaurants rated five-star

Spanish, Belgian: 18.75% of restaurants rated five-star

Leeds 

Vietnamese: 28.57% of restaurants rated five-star

Mexican: 25% of restaurants rated five-star

Italian: 21.05% of restaurants rated five-star

Liverpool 

Brazilian: 27.27% of restaurants rated five-star

French, Vietnamese: 25% of restaurants rated five-star

Mexican: 23.81% of restaurants rated five-star

Below, travel expert and owner of European Waterways Maryanne Sparkes provides top tips on choosing the best restaurant when away from home: 

Avoid persuasive greeters

“Be wary of restaurants where someone is actively trying to lure you in from the street. It can be difficult to say no, but quality establishments usually do not need to employ aggressive tactics to attract customers.”

Check local reviews and forums 

“Use local review sites and forums, like TripAdvisor or Yelp, but focus on reviews from locals as opposed to from tourists. Local diners often have a better sense of which establishments truly represent good quality and authentic cuisine.” 

Pay attention to locally sourced ingredients 

“A menu which features seasonal and locally sourced ingredients is typically a sign that a restaurant offers more flavourful and authentic dishes. Look out for fresh seafood and locally sourced meat and vegetables.” 

Look out for the locals 

“Before choosing a restaurant, it’s important to do some window shopping. If the restaurant is filled with locals, it’s typically a good sign. Locals usually know the best spots and are less likely to frequent tourist traps.

“Likewise, ask for recommendations from the locals. If you’re staying at a bed and breakfast, ask the staff where they like to eat. They might be able to point you in the direction of a hidden gem.” 

Prioritise restaurants with fewer dishes on the menu 

“A menu with fewer ingredients often indicates that the restaurant focuses on quality over quantity. Usually, in these kinds of restaurants, dishes are fresh and made to order.” 

So, next time you’re in a major UK city, ditch the guidebook and follow the locals’ lead. You might just discover a hidden gem serving up flavours that’ll tantalise your taste buds!

I hope this information is useful for you and for your readers. Please feel free to publish any of the comments and advice included in this email, crediting Maryanne Sparkes on behalf of European Waterways. Likewise, if you have any questions or would like any exclusive comments relating to all things travel, please feel free to drop me an email.