Monaco’s National Dish is the Perfect Holiday Appetizer

One of the best things about travel has to be the food. Whether sampling nasi goreng in Bali or trying tartiflette in the French Alps, food creates memory, bringing us back to places and times we’ve loved.

Travel and food daydreams are getting us through the winter. Fantasies of lounging by the Mediterranean Sea, strolling sun-drenched seaside boardwalks, exploring winding fairytale streets, and marveling at historic architecture in far-flung destinations.

In other words, these days we’re dreaming of Monaco.

It’s why we’ve been making batch after batch of barbajuan (also known as barbagiuan). Not only are the savory filled pastries an irresistible comfort food, they’re Monaco’s national dish. Every bite through the crispy crust to the warm, hearty filling is like being whisked away to the bustling street markets of Monte Carlo—think of it as globe-trotting to the French Riviera, but with your taste buds.