Anthony Bourdain was never shy about what he liked and what he didn't like. If there is one thing we all knew about him, it is that he did not ever hold back his words, no matter how cruel they sometimes were. That was all a part of his charm though. A brutally honest, intelligent guy we all knew and loved. He was invited into millions of people's homes every week to show them a new side of a different place. He always taught us something and inspired us to get out and explore other cultures.

In the 18 or so odd years that he traveled the globe on television, skipping from continent to continent, he found some incredible dishes that he could never get out of his head. Surprisingly enough, however, some of his most cherished meals were ones close to home, sometimes even right down the street from his apartment. This list is made up of some that he never quit talking about and that he claimed were his absolute favorites.

12 Steak Frites At This Classic French Bistro In Paris

Bourdain was no stranger to the more expensive side of French cuisine. He knew the ins and outs of any fine dining menu and never shied away from them. However, sometimes a simple, traditional French bistro dish is all he wanted. This Steak Frites in Paris was a comfort food he always craved.

11 This Super Indulgent Burger At Minetta Tavern In NYC

This is no regular burger from any old tavern. For starters, it costs over thirty dollars, quite pricy for a burger if you ask us. It is made from dry-aged ribeye, skirt steak, and brisket. Which makes this burger ridiculously tender and juicy. Anthony claimed it was the best burger in NYC.

10 The Quintessential Brooklyn Pizza At Di Fara

People from New York and New Jersey know good pizza and take it very seriously. So when it comes to one of America's most beloved meals, you know Bourdain had an opinion. He was a traditionalist and didn't like his pie loaded with toppings. This simple Brooklyn one was his go-to.

9 Succulent Suckling Pig From Restaurante Fernando In China

While many people think Chinese food is the greasy stuff you get in little white containers, Bourdain knew better. He traveled extensively in China on his shows and found some amazing food in the enormous country. This suckling pig in Macau is one example.

8 The Most Tender Yakitori From Toriki Main In Japan

Yakitori is a traditional Japanese cuisine. It is basically very good quality chicken, skewered and grilled over an open charcoal fire. It was one of Anthony's absolute favorite meals in the world. He discovered it in Japan and Toriki Main is where he always made sure to go to get it.

7 This Cioppino From Tadich Grill In San Francisco Was His Go-To

San Fransisco, being right on the Pacific Ocean, is known for its great seafood. There is hardly any wrong choice to make if your searching for some fresh stuff. If you like all of it, Bourdain recommended this Cioppino. It's a stew that has crab, fish, calamari, mussels, and scallops!

6 Kansas City Is Known For Its BBQ, And He Loved Ribs From Joe's

Joe's is a staple barbecue joint in Kansas City, serving up all of your meaty, smoky desires. If you ever find yourself in the area, Anthony said to go here. He never missed an opportunity to chow down on a big slab of ribs if he was anywhere near this place!

5 The Best Tortilla De Patata In Spain From La Ardosa

Spain is home to an insane amount of delicious dishes. It was one of the food capitals of the world. With so many places to go, it can be hard to decide. Luckily, you can put these potatoes on your must-try list. It's a pretty simple dish, but when it is made right it is heavenly.

4 Deep-Fried New Jersey Hot Dogs From Hiram's

New Jersey is probably best known for a few things. The two most popular are probably pizza and pork roll. But any Garden State native, which Bourdain was, knows that Jersey also has some serious hot dog stands. Hiram's is considered the best in the state. They are deep-fried. Need we say more?

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3 The Most Luscious Hummus Ever From Le Chef in Lebanon

Lebanon is not known for its tourism, but that is a notion that Anthony tried to change in the minds of people all over the world. He said that the middle east has some great cuisine if only people were willing to give it a chance. This hummus was something he discovered and never forgot about.

Related: A Guide To The Best Croissants In Paris

2 This Meaty Bún Châ In Vietnam From Bun Cha Huong Lien

Vietnam was probably Anthony Bourdain's favorite place in the entire world. In fact, he stated it on his show's many, many times. He loved the food, the people, and the atmosphere of the country. Noodle bowls were something he cherished, especially this one.

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1 Kogi Truck Tacos In L.A. Were His Favorite Late Night Snack

Tacos, who doesn't love them? One of the most popular places in L.A. is a food truck by chef Roy Choi. They are fusion tacos, combining both Korean and Mexican aspects of culinary traditions. Whenever Anthony was in L.A., he always found the truck to grab some.

Next: A Guide To The Best Tacos In Los Angeles