Everyone knows finding good food takes time and research. We often end up at the same restaurants, ordering familiar dishes because trying new foods feels risky.
Good news: you’re about to find 100 tested and proven dishes that will make your taste buds happy.
These aren’t just any random meals – each one has been selected for its rich flavors and satisfying qualities.
This guide walks you through a carefully chosen list of savory foods from different cuisines. You’ll find everything from comforting street snacks to hearty main courses.
Each entry includes what makes it special and why you should try it. By the end, you’ll have plenty of new options for your next meal.
Popular Savory Foods from Around the World
1. Pizza
Pizza is a beloved Italian dish with a dough base topped with tomato sauce, cheese, and various toppings. With styles like thin crust, deep-dish, and stuffed, pizza offers endless flavor possibilities.
Calories (per slice of cheese pizza): ~250-300 kcal
Flavor Profile:
- Savory and mildly tangy from the tomato sauce
- Creamy, salty notes from melted cheese
- Varied, depending on toppings like pepperoni, basil, or vegetables
2. Tacos
Tacos are a popular Mexican dish made by folding or rolling a tortilla around various fillings, such as seasoned meat, beans, vegetables, and salsas. Served as street food or in restaurants, tacos blend textures and flavors in a handheld meal.
Calories (per taco): ~150-200 kcal (varies by filling)
Flavor Profile:
- Spicy and smoky if seasoned with chili or chipotle
- Fresh and citrusy when garnished with lime or cilantro
- Savory and earthy, often with a hint of sweetness if salsa is added
3. Sushi
Sushi is a Japanese delicacy featuring vinegared rice combined with ingredients like raw fish, vegetables, and seaweed. It is often served with wasabi, soy sauce, and pickled ginger.
Calories (per piece): ~40-60 kcal (varies by type)
Flavor Profile:
- Delicate and slightly sweet from the vinegared rice
- Fresh, umami-rich flavors from raw fish
- Spicy and sharp if paired with wasabi or pickled ginger
4. Fried Chicken
Fried chicken is a popular comfort food, featuring chicken pieces coated in seasoned batter and deep-fried until golden and crispy. The crunchy exterior contrasts with the juicy, tender meat inside.
Calories (per piece): ~250-300 kcal (depends on size and preparation)
Flavor Profile:
- Crispy and savory outer crust
- Juicy, tender meat inside
- Often seasoned with herbs and spices, adding a slight kick
5. Steak
Steak is a high-quality cut of beef, typically grilled or pan-seared to a preferred doneness. Known for its rich flavor and juicy texture, steak is enjoyed as a hearty main course and can be enhanced with marinades, herbs, or sauces.
Calories (per 4 oz. serving): ~250 kcal
Flavor Profile:
- Umami-rich and slightly fatty
- Smoky or charred if grilled
- Enhanced by seasoning with salt, pepper, or herbs
6. Ramen
Ramen is a Japanese noodle soup featuring wheat noodles in a savory broth, topped with ingredients like pork, eggs, and seaweed. Known for its comforting warmth, ramen offers a rich, layered flavor experience.
Calories (per bowl): ~400-500 kcal
Flavor Profile:
- Rich and umami-filled broth, often slightly salty
- Silky noodles with a chewy texture
- Layered with flavors from toppings like pork, egg, or seaweed
7. Cheeseburger
A cheeseburger is a type of burger with a slice of cheese placed on top of a grilled beef patty, often accompanied by lettuce, tomato, pickles, and condiments. This American favorite combines flavors in a filling, satisfying meal.
Calories (per burger): ~300-500 kcal (varies by ingredients)
Flavor Profile:
- Juicy and savory beef patty
- Creamy, tangy cheese
- Fresh, crisp toppings adding texture and contrast
8. Dumplings
Dumplings are small, dough-wrapped bites filled with meat, vegetables, or a mixture of both. Steamed, boiled, or pan-fried, they are commonly served in Chinese cuisine but enjoyed across various cultures.
Calories (per dumpling): ~30-50 kcal
Flavor Profile:
- Savory and slightly chewy outer layer
- Umami and mildly spiced fillings
- Served with dipping sauces, adding saltiness and spice
9. Lasagna
Lasagna is an Italian pasta dish made with layers of pasta, cheese, rich tomato sauce, and ground meat or vegetables. It’s baked until bubbly and golden, making it a comforting, hearty meal perfect for gatherings.
Calories (per slice): ~300-400 kcal
Flavor Profile:
- Creamy and cheesy, with a rich tomato base
- Slightly tangy from tomato sauce
- Layered with savory meat or vegetable flavors
10. BBQ Ribs
BBQ ribs are a favorite in American barbecue, featuring pork or beef ribs slow-cooked and glazed with a barbecue sauce. The meat becomes tender and flavorful, pulling easily from the bone.
Calories (per rib): ~80-120 kcal
Flavor Profile:
- Smoky and slightly sweet from the sauce
- Tender and juicy meat
- Often spiced with a mix of paprika, garlic, and brown sugar
11. Nachos
Nachos are a popular Mexican-inspired dish made from crispy tortilla chips topped with melted cheese, jalapeños, and often seasoned meat, beans, or guacamole. It’s commonly served as an appetizer or snack, perfect for sharing.
Calories (per serving): ~300-400 kcal
Flavor Profile:
- Crunchy and cheesy
- Slightly spicy with a tang from jalapeños
- Savory with optional toppings like sour cream or salsa
12. Pad Thai
Pad Thai is a stir-fried rice noodle dish from Thailand, known for its mix of sweet, sour, and savory flavors. It typically includes shrimp or chicken, tofu, bean sprouts, and crushed peanuts, making it a well-balanced and flavorful meal.
Calories (per plate): ~400-600 kcal
Flavor Profile:
- Tangy and slightly sweet from tamarind
- Nutty and savory, with a hint of spice
- Fresh and crunchy with bean sprouts and peanuts
13. Burritos
Burritos are a Mexican staple, made by wrapping a flour tortilla around a filling of seasoned meat, beans, rice, and toppings like cheese and guacamole. It’s a hearty, portable meal perfect for on-the-go dining.
Calories (per burrito): ~500-700 kcal
Flavor Profile:
- Savory and mildly spiced from the meat
- Creamy and tangy with sour cream or guacamole
- Hearty and filling from beans and rice
14. Shawarma
Shawarma is a Middle Eastern dish made of thinly sliced, marinated meat (usually chicken, beef, or lamb) cooked on a vertical rotisserie and served in pita bread with vegetables and sauces.
Calories (per wrap): ~400-600 kcal
Flavor Profile:
- Rich and aromatic from spices like cumin, paprika, and garlic
- Juicy and slightly tangy from sauces like tahini or yogurt
- Savory with a hint of sweetness from caramelized edges
15. Paella
Paella is a Spanish rice dish from Valencia. It’s traditionally made with seafood, meats, and vegetables cooked in a seasoned broth. It’s known for its saffron-infused golden color and distinct flavors.
Calories (per plate): ~300-500 kcal
Flavor Profile:
- Aromatic and earthy from saffron and spices
- Rich and slightly salty from seafood
- Balanced with fresh vegetables and herbs
16. Chicken Tikka Masala
Chicken Tikka Masala is a popular Indian-inspired dish made with grilled marinated chicken in a creamy, spiced tomato sauce. It’s known for its bold, comforting flavors and pairs well with rice or naan.
Calories (per serving): ~400-500 kcal
Flavor Profile:
- Creamy and tangy with a hint of tomato
- Spicy and aromatic with spices like cumin, coriander, and garam masala
- Mildly sweet with a smoky undertone from grilled chicken
17. Biryani
Biryani is a fragrant rice dish from South Asia, made with layers of spiced rice, meat (often chicken, lamb, or goat), and sometimes vegetables. This flavorful dish is slow-cooked, allowing the spices to blend and infuse the rice and meat.
Calories (per serving): ~400-600 kcal
Flavor Profile:
- Fragrant and aromatic from spices like cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon
- Slightly tangy from yogurt or lemon
- Rich and savory with tender, spiced meat
18. Falafel
Falafel is a Middle Eastern dish made of ground chickpeas or fava beans, mixed with herbs and spices, then shaped into balls and deep-fried. It’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, commonly served in pita bread or on a salad.
Calories (per falafel ball): ~50-60 kcal
Flavor Profile:
- Earthy and nutty from chickpeas or beans
- Herbaceous with parsley, cilantro, and cumin
- Crispy exterior with a moist, savory interior
19. Chili con Carne
Chili con Carne is a Tex-Mex dish made from ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and chili spices. Slow-cooked to bring out its robust flavors, it’s a hearty, warming meal often served with rice or cornbread.
Calories (per bowl): ~300-400 kcal
Flavor Profile:
- Spicy and smoky from chili powder and paprika
- Rich and savory with a mild tang from tomatoes
- Hearty with the meaty texture of beef and beans
20. Peking Duck
Peking Duck is a traditional Chinese dish featuring crispy, roasted duck skin served with pancakes, scallions, and hoisin sauce. The meat is tender and flavorful, making it a celebrated delicacy.
Calories (per 3 oz. serving): ~300 kcal
Flavor Profile:
- Crispy and fatty skin with a savory depth
- Mildly sweet and rich with hoisin sauce
- Tender, juicy duck meat
21. Empanadas
Empanadas are stuffed pastries common in Latin American and Spanish cuisines, filled with ingredients like seasoned meat, cheese, or vegetables. Baked or fried, they are enjoyed as snacks or meals.
Calories (per empanada): ~200-300 kcal
Flavor Profile:
- Flaky, golden pastry shell
- Savory and often slightly spiced filling
- Mildly sweet if paired with raisins or onions in the filling
22. Fish and Chips
Fish and Chips is a classic British dish featuring battered and deep-fried fish served with fries. It’s often served with tartar sauce and malt vinegar, adding to its appeal as a crispy, flavorful meal.
Calories (per serving): ~600-800 kcal
Flavor Profile:
- Crispy, golden batter with a light crunch
- Mild, flaky fish with a savory flavor
- Tangy when dipped in vinegar or tartar sauce
23. Pho
Pho is a Vietnamese noodle soup with rice noodles, aromatic herbs, and sliced meat (typically beef or chicken) in a clear, flavorful broth. Known for its fragrant spices, it’s a comforting, nourishing dish.
Calories (per bowl): ~350-450 kcal
Flavor Profile:
- Rich and slightly sweet broth with star anise and cinnamon
- Fresh from basil, cilantro, and lime
- Umami notes from fish sauce and savory meat
24. Samosas
Samosas are triangular pastries filled with spiced potatoes, peas, and sometimes meat, then fried until golden. This South Asian snack is known for its crispy exterior and aromatic filling.
Calories (per samosa): ~150-200 kcal
Flavor Profile:
- Crunchy and savory exterior
- Spicy and flavorful filling, often mildly tangy
- Earthy from potatoes and warm spices like cumin and coriander
25. Gyoza
Description:
Gyoza are Japanese dumplings filled with minced meat and vegetables, usually pan-fried for a crispy bottom and steamed for a soft, juicy filling. Served with a soy-based dipping sauce, they are a popular appetizer.
Calories (per dumpling): ~40-60 kcal
Flavor Profile:
- Savory and slightly sweet from soy sauce
- Juicy filling with hints of ginger and garlic
- Crispy and chewy contrast from pan-frying
26. Beef Stroganoff
Description:
Beef Stroganoff is a Russian-inspired dish made with sautéed pieces of beef in a creamy sauce, often featuring mushrooms and onions. It’s traditionally served over noodles or rice, making it a comforting, hearty meal.
Calories (per serving): ~500-600 kcal
Flavor Profile:
- Creamy and rich sauce with a slightly tangy undertone
- Umami notes from mushrooms and beef
- Mildly spiced with a hint of onion and garlic
27. Shepherd’s Pie
Shepherd’s Pie is a classic British comfort dish made of ground meat, typically lamb, mixed with vegetables and gravy, then topped with mashed potatoes and baked until golden. It’s known for its hearty, homey appeal.
Calories (per serving): ~400-500 kcal
Flavor Profile:
- Savory and meaty base with mild sweetness from carrots
- Creamy and fluffy mashed potato topping
- Herbaceous with rosemary or thyme undertones
28. Hummus with Pita Bread
Hummus is a Middle Eastern dip made from blended chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, and lemon juice. It’s typically served with pita bread or vegetables, making it a light, nutritious snack or appetizer.
Calories (per 2 tbsp of hummus): ~50-70 kcal
Flavor Profile:
- Nutty and creamy from tahini
- Mildly tangy from lemon
- Earthy and slightly garlicky
29. Bruschetta
Bruschetta is an Italian appetizer consisting of toasted bread rubbed with garlic and topped with fresh tomatoes, basil, and olive oil. It’s a light, fresh dish with Mediterranean flavors.
Calories (per slice): ~70-100 kcal
Flavor Profile:
- Crunchy and slightly garlicky bread
- Fresh and juicy from tomatoes
- Herbal and mildly sweet from basil
30. Meatballs
Meatballs are round balls of ground meat (usually beef, pork, or a mix) mixed with breadcrumbs, eggs, and spices, then baked or fried. Often served with tomato sauce, they’re enjoyed worldwide in various forms.
Calories (per meatball): ~50-70 kcal
Flavor Profile:
- Savory and juicy interior
- Mildly spiced with herbs like parsley or basil
- Rich tomato sauce adds acidity and depth
Unpopular Savory Foods You Must Try
31. Moussaka
32. Enchiladas
33. Poutine
34. Carbonara Pasta
35. Lamb Kebabs
36. Jambalaya
37. Tempura
38. Croquettes
39. Quesadillas
40. Beef Tacos
41. Pierogi
42. Crab Cakes
43. Chicken Pot Pie
44. Saag Paneer
45. Korean BBQ (Bulgogi)
46. Fajitas
47. Ratatouille
48. French Onion Soup
49. Bao Buns
50. Stuffed Bell Peppers
51. Shakshuka
52. Okonomiyaki
53. Arepas
54. Kedgeree
55. Kohlrouladen (German stuffed cabbage rolls)
56. Mofongo (Puerto Rican plantain dish)
57. Aloo Tikki (Indian spiced potato patties)
58. Jollof Rice (West African spiced rice dish)
59. Balut (Philippine fertilized egg delicacy)
60. Feijoada (Brazilian black bean stew)
61. Smørrebrød (Danish open-faced sandwich)
62. Borscht (Eastern European beet soup)
63. Pajeon (Korean scallion pancake)
64. Kibbeh (Middle Eastern bulgur and meat dish)
65. Hákarl (Icelandic fermented shark)
66. Taramasalata (Greek fish roe dip)
67. Banitsa (Bulgarian pastry with feta and eggs)
68. Avgolemono (Greek lemon chicken soup)
69. Fesenjan (Persian pomegranate walnut stew)
70. Loco Moco (Hawaiian rice, burger, egg, and gravy)
71. Zwetschgenknödel (German plum dumplings)
72. Xnipec (Mexican habanero salsa)
73. Koshari (Egyptian pasta, rice, and lentils)
74. Trinxat (Catalan potato and cabbage dish)
75. Labneh (Middle Eastern yogurt cheese dip)
76. Callaloo (Caribbean leafy green stew)
77. Fufu (West African starchy dough)
78. Tteokbokki (Korean spicy rice cakes)
79. Bun Cha (Vietnamese grilled pork with noodles)
80. Bife a Cavalo (Brazilian steak with fried egg)
81. Gado-Gado (Indonesian vegetable salad with peanut sauce)
82. Mansaf (Jordanian lamb with yogurt sauce)
83. Bulgur Pilaf (Middle Eastern cracked wheat dish)
84. Bahn Xeo (Vietnamese crispy pancakes)
85. Carne de Sol (Brazilian sun-dried beef)
86. Lahmacun (Turkish flatbread with minced meat)
87. Gambas al Ajillo (Spanish garlic shrimp)
88. Ghormeh Sabzi (Persian herb stew)
89. Gratin Dauphinois (French potato casserole)
90. Sfeeha (Lebanese meat pies)
91. Pitha (Bangladeshi stuffed rice cakes)
92. Acharuli Khachapuri (Georgian cheese-filled bread)
93. Larb (Laotian spiced meat salad)
94. Gözleme (Turkish stuffed flatbread)
95. Mamaliga (Romanian cornmeal porridge)
96. Khao Soi (Thai coconut curry noodle soup)
97. Cevapi (Balkan grilled minced meat sausages)
98. Ugali (East African maize porridge)
99. Machaca (Mexican dried, shredded beef)
100. Pastelón (Puerto Rican plantain lasagna)
Conclusion
Food brings people together and opens doors to new experiences.
With these 100 savory dishes, you now have a reliable guide to expand your food choices beyond the usual options.
Why does this matter? Because each meal you try adds to your understanding of different cultures and cooking methods. These foods represent centuries of tradition and creativity in kitchens worldwide.
We’d love to hear about your food adventures! Which dishes from our list have you tried?
Share your experiences in the comments below. Better yet, bookmark this guide for your next dinner plan or restaurant visit.
