In Lithuania, culinary tourism is becoming an increasingly popular branch of tourism, attracting both local and international visitors. It is not only an excellent opportunity to showcase the country's gastronomic heritage but also a way to boost the local economy and strengthen cultural identity. Traditional Lithuanian dishes, products from local farms, and ancient cooking traditions are the cornerstone of this field, deserving continued attention and preservation.
The Importance of Local Food
(1).jpg)
Culinary tourism in Lithuania is inseparable from local food. Using locally grown ingredients ensures not only the authenticity of dishes but also supports the local economy—farmers, small producers, and artisans gain greater visibility and demand. Furthermore, shorter supply chains guarantee higher quality, fresher products, and a reduced environmental impact.
Highly valued in Lithuania are products such as black bread, freshly smoked fish, mushrooms, and berries from local forests, as well as traditional dairy products. These ingredients are not only symbols of Lithuanian cuisine but also provide tourists with the chance to experience the true, authentic taste of Lithuania.
Preserving Traditions
.jpg)
Ancient cooking traditions are an invaluable part of Lithuanian culture, worth not only preserving but also actively promoting. Dishes such as cepelinai, šaltibarščiai (cold beet soup), potato pancakes, and kugelis can become cultural ambassadors, representing the country to the world. It is crucial to ensure that these recipes are not forgotten and that their preparation techniques are passed down through generations.
Educational programs offered in rural homesteads and culinary events are gaining popularity, allowing visitors not only to taste traditional dishes but also to participate in their preparation. This is a unique experience that provides deeper insight into Lithuanian lifestyle and culture.
Culinary Tourism as a Part of National Identity
.jpg)
Cuisine is more than just food—it tells stories, reflects a nation’s values, and reveals its way of life. Through food, one can uncover the diversity of Lithuanian regions—from Žemaitija's kastinys (a traditional dairy dish) to Dzūkija's buckwheat pancakes. This cultural uniqueness gives Lithuania a chance to stand out in the global tourism market.
Moreover, gastronomic experiences have become one of the main reasons tourists choose specific travel destinations. For Lithuania, it is essential to capitalize on this by offering unique culinary routes that include not only tasting food but also visiting local farms, markets, festivals, or even harvest celebrations.
In central Lithuania, spanning Radviliškis and Kėdainiai districts, the culinary route “Old New Flavors” invites travelers on a taste journey where traditions meet modern approaches to food culture. This route is a perfect choice for those who want not only to taste but also to explore Lithuania’s gastronomic heritage more deeply.
Five unique stops offer diverse experiences. The village of Panekelpių greets visitors with original elderberry products—from refreshing drinks to sweets, showcasing the creativity of the local community. The Pociūnėliai town community invites guests to a beetroot education session, where they can learn about the vegetable’s significance in Lithuanian cuisine and taste a variety of dishes, from beetroot kugelis to desserts.
Šlėvė Farm offers a chance to savor the natural flavors of fruits and berries, which guests can pick directly from the orchard. Šušvės Midus, a true guardian of Lithuanian mead traditions, impresses with its diverse range of mead and honey products, highlighting the historical importance of these delicacies. Finally, Skėmiai Tavern, accompanied by traditional Lithuanian songs, offers a unique culinary highlight—a hearty cut of meat, sure to captivate lovers of authentic flavors.
This route is an excellent opportunity to not only taste a variety of flavors but also get closer to the region’s culinary traditions and the people who keep them alive. “Old New Flavors” demonstrates how traditional Lithuanian heritage can be adapted to the modern day while preserving its uniqueness and cultural significance.
