WELCOME TO
AUTHENTIC FOOD

WHAT DOES "AUTHENTIC" FOOD REALLY MEAN?

You’ve seen it before—a restaurant proudly advertising “authentic” cuisine or a grocery store label boasting “authentic” ingredients. But what does that actually mean? Who decides what’s authentic and what’s not?

At AuthenticFood.com, we believe authenticity in food isn’t a fixed definition—it’s a conversation, a journey, and sometimes, even a debate. The idea of “authentic” food is fluid, shaped by history, migration, culture, and personal experience.

We are not a recipe site...

A STORY TELLING PLATFORM

Unlike other food platforms, we don't do recipes. You won't find step-by-step guides here.

Instead, we dig deeper, uncovering the fascinating stories behind food, culture, and identity.

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Guerrerense Cuisine Steps Into the Light

Guerrero, the Pacific-facing Mexican province southwest of Puebla and the State of Mexico and north of Oaxaca.

Food

The Truth About Honey: What I Learned as an Honorary Beekeeper

A few years ago, I found myself fully suited up, standing in the middle of a buzzing apiary, surrounded by thousands of bees.

Restaurants

Hidden Away in NYC’s Dumbo, Kinjo is Quietly Redefining the Omakase Tradition

Kinjo is not your typical Omakase restaurant. But then again, can the concept of Omakase even fit into the “typical” or “authentic” category

Food

The Real Love Story: Sourdough

This Valentine’s Day, while many celebrate with chocolates and roses, at AuthenticFood.com, we’re embracing a love that runs deeper.

Restaurants

The Lost Italian Art of Lambrusco in a Bowl

In the middle of dinner at Oukan, a Japanese-inspired vegan fine-dining restaurant in Berlin.

Restaurants

Kyoto’s Hidden Culinary Treasure: A Mother-Daughter Team Bringing Obanzai to Life

Hidden in the backstreets of Kyoto, Koyoken is a nine-seat restaurant specializing in obanzai.

Food

Cooking for the Departed: Exploring the Singular Authenticity of Helva

Helva, a common name for butter-fried starch-based desserts, is one of Turkey's most popular sweet treats.

Restaurants

The World’s Only Sorbian Restaurant Is a Cultural Gateway

Wjelbik, which can mean both “vault” and “pantry,” is owned by the Mahling family and run by Mónika Lukašowa née Mahling and her husband.

Food

Turkey 101 and My Martha Stewart Thanksgiving Tradition

This Thanksgiving I find myself reflecting on my own journey with the iconic centerpiece of the holiday table.

Food

Exploring Baklava's Layers of Tradition and Taste: An Interview with Dr. Osman Güldemir on the Authenticity of Turkey’s Iconic Dessert

When I began traveling to Turkey nearly a decade ago, I fell in love with baklava.

Restaurants

An Emilian Adventure in Food: The Boiled Meat of Arnaldo

The dining rooms are always in movement at Arnaldo’s.

Food

Barbunya Pilaki – The Indubitable Queen of All Mezzes

As spring gives way to summer, midway through May, barbunya (borlotti or cranberry beans) arrive in Istanbul’s neighborhood markets.

Restaurants

Authenticity at Darjeeling Express: A Reflection of Home and Heritage

For Asma Khan, the founder of Darjeeling Express, authenticity is more than a culinary buzzword.

Food

Mulukhiyah: Cairo’s Comfort Food with a Rich History

Internationally known as Nalta Jute or Jute Mallow, mulukhiyah is a leafy green vegetable that holds a special position in Egyptian cuisine.

Food

Beyond the Orange: The World of Blue Pumpkins

Do you ever think of blue pumpkins? Blue pumpkins, with their striking hues and unique flavors, are slowly becoming a favorite among fo

Restaurants

Toba: An Indonesian Gem in the Heart of London

In London’s Mayfair, where every street seems to whisper of quiet luxury and old-school tradition, Toba offers something different.

Restaurants

1748 Bakehouse - Historic Springfield

On a hot summer Florida morning, I sat down with Allison Vaughan, the owner of 1748 Bakehouse located in Jacksonville, Florida.

Food

Food Authenticity in the UK: A Post-Colonial Perspective

Food authenticity in the UK’s diverse restaurant scene is increasingly important to modern diners.

Food

When I Say Yogurt/Yoghurt What Do You Imagine?

Just because you can measure the bacteria and systemize the production, is it yoghurt?

Restaurants

The Buckhorn Exchange - Denver, CO

The Buckhorn Exchange still thrives as Denver's oldest restaurant—though not much has changed.

Food

The Hamburger: From Hamburg to American Icon

Did the hamburger originally come from the German city of Hamburg?

FOODS WE LOVE

Guerrerense Cuisine Steps Into the Light

Guerrero, the Pacific-facing Mexican province southwest of Puebla and the State of Mexico and north of Oaxaca.

Socialize #authenticfoodinsta

So its 3.14! π! We might not be the greatest at math, but we certainly know amazing pies! Thanks for celebrating with us @littlepiecompany 💙

Thanks @goldbelly for getting them to us!

#piday2025 #pieday #pielovers

What’s your favorite pie?

@asmakhanlondon ‘s new book delivered yesterday!! Did you read the interview we did with her about @darjeelingldn and authenticity in food?

Available now at authenticfood.com

📷 @darjeelingldn

#booklaunch #cookingbooks #authenticfood

At AuthenticFood.com we believe authenticity in food isn’t a fixed definition…it’s a conversation, a journey, and sometimes even a debate.

Join our community to explore the people, places, and experiences that make food truly special and meaningful.

#authenticfood #foodculture #foodies #foodcommunity

It’s already been such an amazing journey since we launched in November and none of it would be possible without this group of talented contributors!!!

Celebrating International Women’s Day!

@simiskitchen
@in_cucinacon_sofia
@sibel.kutlusoy
@r_goodbread
@theemmatamargo
@stasiabrew
@jannatamargo
@molyyy50
@eatdrinkthink

Just Arrived!! Thank you so much @qbcucina we have been waiting for this one!! We are obsessed with these custom plates from Italy.

Guess what Asheville, NC companies still need your support!

#authenticfood #customplates #asheville #ashevillestrong

➡️NEW ARTICLE! Authentic or Not? The Omakase-Inspired restaurant everyone is talking about.

@kinjo.nyc isn’t your typical Omakase restaurant because at its core, it’s Omakase-inspired rather than bound by tradition. Founded by a team of visionary chefs, this Brooklyn gem blends influences from Japan, Indonesia, Korea, and beyond, crafting dishes that tell a story of heritage, evolution, and creativity.

From the Mushu Duck, an homage to both Peking Duck and French crepes, to the Botan Ebi nigiri, a reimagination of Indonesian shrimp curry, Kinjo proves that authenticity isn’t about strict rules, it’s about honoring flavors while creating something new.

Step inside this intimate space in Dumbo, sip a Yuzu Negroni, and experience a dining journey where every bite sparks conversation. Read the full article by @lewis_woloch now on AuthenticFood.com (link in bio)!

📍 Kinjo | Brooklyn, NY
📸 @ihatealexlau @mflatowphoto Eliot Kimball

#KinjoBrooklyn #OmakaseInspired #AuthenticFood #NYCEats #FoodStorytelling #BrooklynEats #SushiLovers #FusionCuisine #JapaneseFood #BrooklynFoodie #EaterNY #ChefLife #FineDining #NYCFoodie #FoodCulture #AuthenticEats

🍽️ New Food Stories Are Live!

Ever wondered what makes a meal truly authentic? It’s more than just ingredients, it’s history, culture, and the people behind every bite. AuthenticFood.com is uncovering the stories behind the dishes you love.

Swipe up, dive in, and taste the world through the voices of home cooks, chefs, and food artisans. Link in bio!

#AuthenticFood #FoodStories #CulinaryTraditions #TasteTheWorld #BeyondTheRecipe #FoodCulture #EatAuthentic #FoodHistory

Food is tied to memory, and everyone has that one childhood dish that takes them back! For our founder, @jannatamargo, this is the ultimate fav. Can you guess this nostalgic classic? Watch closely and drop your guess in the comments!

Production: @roma_ux
Film/Edit: @rocco_roefaro
Sourdough: @communityloaves

#authenticfood #childhood #foodmemories #sourdough #foodstories

💙New Article Alert!

Today we are celebrating the love of real bread: sourdough!

In our featured article @jannatamargo talks to @in_cucinacon_sofia to discuss sourdough, and the @realbreadcampaign

Read now at AuthenticFood.com

#valentinesday #sourdough #foodislove #authenticfood #realbread

💙Love is patient, love is kind… just like a good sourdough starter. Our latest article explores the deep connection between sourdough and love, fermenting memories, nourishing relationships, and rising together through time. Plus, we’ve got some sourdough-themed Valentines to share with your favorite bread lover! Tap the link in bio to read about #masterchef @in_cucinacon_sofia her commitment to the @realbreadcampaign and spread the love. #SourdoughAndLove #FermentingFeelings #BreadIsLove”

Have you ever enjoyed wine from a bowl? In our featured article this week. @ahcallaghan explores The Lost Italian Art of Lambrusco in a Bowl.

Read the conversation with @jonathan_gobbi from @oukandining in Berlin and about how @osteriadunavolta celebrates it.

#lambrusco #wineinbowls #berlinfood #authenicfood #foodculture

Just a little behind the scenes at AuthenticFood.com this week! Exciting things coming!!

Stayed Tuned!
A huge thank you to @chefvernetta for feeding our crew!

#bts #fooddocumentary #foodstories #authenticfood #filmcrew #moretocome

@rubikon_food shares his thoughts on an intimate dinner in Kyoto.

Read how this amazing mother daughter team create this authentic dining experience in Japan!

Now featured at
Authenticfood.com

#authenticfood #foodstories #japanfood #motherdaughterlove

Featured Article: Kyoto’s Hidden Culinary Treasure

Tucked away in the backstreets of Kyoto, Koyoken is more than just a restaurant, it’s a glimpse into the heart of obanzai, a traditional Kyoto home-cooking style rooted in seasonal ingredients and minimal waste. Run by a dynamic mother-daughter duo, this nine-seat eatery offers bold flavors, brash warmth, and an unforgettable dining experience that challenges conventional notions of Japanese hospitality. No menu, no pretense—just an authentic experience and amazing food in Kyoto, Japan.

Article & 📷 by @rubikon_food

Would you try it? Let us know in the comments! ⬇️

#KyotoEats #Obanzai #AuthenticFood #HiddenGems #FoodCulture #JapanFoodie #EatLocal #FarmToTable #KyotoRestaurants #FoodStories #CulinaryTradition #SlowFood #FoodAuthenticity

I wish more people knew what makes food truly authentic.

Authenticity isn’t just about using “traditional” ingredients or following a centuries old recipe. It’s about culture, history, and the people who bring food to life. It’s the grandmothers who cook from memory, the street vendors who perfect a dish over decades, the farmers who grow heritage ingredients, and the communities that preserve their culinary identity despite modern pressures.

Authentic food isn’t static. It evolves, adapts, and tells a story. It’s shaped by migration, trade, and the realities of daily life. Food can be authentic in many different ways, whether it’s deeply rooted in its place of origin or reflects how a culture has carried its food traditions across borders.

At AuthenticFood.com, we celebrate these stories. We go beyond surface-level “authenticity” to explore the lived experiences behind the food we love and the people who feed us. Because authenticity isn’t just about how a dish should be made, it’s about the people who make it matter.

What does authenticity in food mean to you? Let’s start the conversation. #AuthenticFood #FoodCulture #AuthenticityMatters

@out_inthefield @lakemeadownaturals

New on AuthenticFood.com™: Cooking for the Departed: Exploring the Singular Authenticity of Helva

Our latest feature dives into the rich history, deep cultural traditions, and intriguing philosophy behind Turkey’s beloved helva, particularly the “helva of the dead.” This article, penned by the incredibly talented Bora Isyar, takes you on a journey through the rituals of mourning, communal cooking, and the profound connection between food and memory.

The stunning photography by Sibel Kutlusoy brings this story to life, capturing every golden hue of semolina and every wistful look exchanged during the communal act of making this iconic dessert. Having met Bora and Sibel during my travels in Turkey, I witnessed firsthand their passion for uncovering the layers of meaning behind every dish. Bora’s storytelling is as rich as helva itself, and Sibel’s eye for detail turns every image into a work of art. Their collaboration truly honors the spirit of Turkey’s culinary traditions. 🇹🇷❤️

🍴 From the origins of helva in Mesopotamia to its countless global variations, this piece explores how a simple combination of butter, starch, and syrup becomes an extraordinary expression of culture, history, and, yes, authenticity.

🔗 Read the full story now on AuthenticFood.com™
📸 Photos by: @SibelKutlusoy

👉Does your culture commemorate life and death through food? Share your thoughts below!

#AuthenticFood #Helva #TurkishCuisine #FoodRituals #FoodCulture #SemolinaHelva #CommemorativeFood #ButterLove #TurkishTraditions #FoodPhotography #TravelAndTaste #AuthenticityExplored

—

We’re excited to kick off 2025 with an extraordinary story on AuthenticFood.com! Our newest contributor, @stasiabrew Stasia Brewczynski, takes us on a journey to Bautzen, Germany, home to the Sorbs, one of Germany’s smallest ethnic minorities.
In this first article of the year, explore @wjelbikbautzen Wjelbik, the world’s only Sorbian restaurant.
Learn how Wjelbik preserves the rich traditions, flavors, and resilience of Sorbian culture. From its stunning medieval setting to its heartfelt hospitality, this restaurant is more than a dining experience—it’s a cultural gateway.
📖 Read the full article now and discover how food connects us to history and identity.
🔗 in bio

#AuthenticFood
#FoodStories
#sorbian #foodculture

Step back in time at Denver’s oldest restaurant, the Buckhorn Exchange! Established in 1893, this historic gem boasts over 500 taxidermy pieces and holds Colorado’s first liquor license.

From exotic meats like elk and alligator to the infamous Rocky Mountain oysters, their menu is as legendary as the establishment itself.

Read more at authenticfood.com

#Denvereats #HistoricEats #BuckhornExchange #OldestRestaurant #WildGame #ColoradoHistory

As we approach the final weekend of 2024, we’re reflecting on an incredible year at AuthenticFood.com—one that started with our launch on World Food Day just a few months ago and has since grown into a celebration of the heart and soul of food.

This year, we’ve shared stories that took us across the globe:
🫐 Uncovering untold histories behind iconic dishes.
🌍 Exploring diverse food cultures, from Michelin-star legends to street food artisans.
💙 Highlighting food change-makers and compassionate bakers redefining authenticity in their kitchens.

At the heart of it all is our founder, @jannatamargo, whose vision drives everything we do. Her mission to explore the fluidity of authenticity in food has shaped a platform where every story goes beyond recipes, celebrating the people, cultures, and histories that make food truly meaningful.

But what makes AuthenticFood.com truly authentic? You. Our community of readers, supporters, and storytellers inspires us every day. Your passion for meaningful conversations around food drives our mission forward, connecting us all to the rich culture and history that food represents.

As we close out 2024, we’re already cooking up even more for the year ahead—bold flavors, inspiring voices, and stories that explore how food brings us together.

We’d love to hear from you: What was your favorite story this year? And what would you like to see in 2025? Let us know in the comments or reach out directly.

Here’s to a flavorful year ahead,
The AuthenticFood.com Team

#YearInReview #AuthenticFood #FoodCulture #Storytelling #FoodAndDrink

What do you know about the first ever @michelinguide ⭐️ restaurant in Italy?

Read about @arnaldo_clinicagastronomica a restaurant that has proudly held Italy’s longest standing Michelin star since 1959

Read the article by contributor @hellerpop at authenticfood.com

#restaurantculture #michelinstar #emilian #italianfood

Think you know Italian food?

In this article featured at authenticfood.com @hellerpop explores a dish that is more than a meal; it’s a philosophy. Rooted in Emilia’s peasant traditions, Bollito Emiliano honors every cut of meat, transforming humble ingredients into a celebration of flavor. The slow boil enriches both the broth used in iconic pastas like tortellini and the meat, which melts on the palate.

🇮🇹 In every bite, there’s a story of connection, resourcefulness, and culinary brilliance.

Learn more about @arnaldo_clinicagastronomica

Have you tried this sacred Italian tradition? Share your favorite Bollito memory below! ⬇️

#AuthenticFood #BollitoEmiliano #ItalianCuisine #FoodCulture #RegionalFlavours

Hungry for more?

Tap the link in our bio to explore the latest articles and join us on this journey of taste, tradition, and togetherness!

Dive into the world of authentic food culture with AuthenticFood.com! Explore the stories that go beyond the plate, brought to you by founder @jannatamargo. From heartfelt interviews with amazing chefs and restaurant owners to the cultural tales behind iconic dishes, each article connects you to the authenticity of food. 🥣📖

Featuring articles by
@rubikon_food
@hellerpop
@simiskitchen
@molyyy50

#AuthenticFoodStories #FoodCulture #chefs #restaurants

Featured Article

“When I Say Yogurt/Yoghurt What Do You Imagine?”

@simiskitchen discusses yogurt/yoghurt.

Read Now authenticfood.com

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AuthenticFood.com®

WELCOME TO
AUTHENTIC FOOD

WHAT DOES "AUTHENTIC" FOOD REALLY MEAN?

We are not a recipe site...

A STORY TELLING PLATFORM

Guerrerense Cuisine Steps Into the Light

The Truth About Honey: What I Learned as an Honorary Beekeeper

Hidden Away in NYC’s Dumbo, Kinjo is Quietly Redefining the Omakase Tradition

The Real Love Story: Sourdough

The Lost Italian Art of Lambrusco in a Bowl

Kyoto’s Hidden Culinary Treasure: A Mother-Daughter Team Bringing Obanzai to Life

Cooking for the Departed: Exploring the Singular Authenticity of Helva

The World’s Only Sorbian Restaurant Is a Cultural Gateway

Turkey 101 and My Martha Stewart Thanksgiving Tradition

Exploring Baklava's Layers of Tradition and Taste: An Interview with Dr. Osman Güldemir on the Authenticity of Turkey’s Iconic Dessert

An Emilian Adventure in Food: The Boiled Meat of Arnaldo

Barbunya Pilaki – The Indubitable Queen of All Mezzes

Authenticity at Darjeeling Express: A Reflection of Home and Heritage

Mulukhiyah: Cairo’s Comfort Food with a Rich History

Beyond the Orange: The World of Blue Pumpkins

Toba: An Indonesian Gem in the Heart of London

1748 Bakehouse - Historic Springfield

Food Authenticity in the UK: A Post-Colonial Perspective

When I Say Yogurt/Yoghurt What Do You Imagine?

The Buckhorn Exchange - Denver, CO

The Hamburger: From Hamburg to American Icon

Guerrerense Cuisine Steps Into the Light

Socialize #authenticfoodinsta

Follow us on Instagram

Subscribe

Never Miss a Bite of
Authentic Food

Contact Us

WELCOME TO AUTHENTIC FOOD

WHAT DOES "AUTHENTIC" FOOD REALLY MEAN?

We are not a recipe site...

A STORY TELLING PLATFORM

Guerrerense Cuisine Steps Into the Light

The Truth About Honey: What I Learned as an Honorary Beekeeper

Hidden Away in NYC’s Dumbo, Kinjo is Quietly Redefining the Omakase Tradition

The Real Love Story: Sourdough

The Lost Italian Art of Lambrusco in a Bowl

Kyoto’s Hidden Culinary Treasure: A Mother-Daughter Team Bringing Obanzai to Life

Cooking for the Departed: Exploring the Singular Authenticity of Helva

The World’s Only Sorbian Restaurant Is a Cultural Gateway

Turkey 101 and My Martha Stewart Thanksgiving Tradition

Exploring Baklava's Layers of Tradition and Taste: An Interview with Dr. Osman Güldemir on the Authenticity of Turkey’s Iconic Dessert

An Emilian Adventure in Food: The Boiled Meat of Arnaldo

Barbunya Pilaki – The Indubitable Queen of All Mezzes

Authenticity at Darjeeling Express: A Reflection of Home and Heritage

Mulukhiyah: Cairo’s Comfort Food with a Rich History

Beyond the Orange: The World of Blue Pumpkins

Toba: An Indonesian Gem in the Heart of London

1748 Bakehouse - Historic Springfield

Food Authenticity in the UK: A Post-Colonial Perspective

When I Say Yogurt/Yoghurt What Do You Imagine?

The Buckhorn Exchange - Denver, CO

The Hamburger: From Hamburg to American Icon

Guerrerense Cuisine Steps Into the Light

Socialize #authenticfoodinsta

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Follow us on Instagram

Subscribe

Never Miss a Bite of Authentic Food

Contact Us

WELCOME TO
AUTHENTIC FOOD

Never Miss a Bite of
Authentic Food