A Celebrated Chef Hits the Road in Search of Unforgettable Destinations
National Geographic is set to premiere an exciting new travel docuseries that promises to redefine how viewers experience the world’s most remarkable cities. Best of the World with Antoni Porowski follows the Emmy award-winning food personality as he travels to four extraordinary destinations, uncovering the people, flavors, and experiences that transform ordinary places into lasting memories.
Porowski, widely recognized for his engaging approach to food and culture storytelling, serves as both host and executive producer of this four-part series. His journey goes far beyond typical tourist attractions, diving deep into the authentic heart of each location he visits. The premiere is scheduled for June 7 at 9/8c on National Geographic, with all episodes available for streaming the following day on Disney+ and Hulu.
Four Cities, Countless Stories Waiting to Be Told
The docuseries draws inspiration from National Geographic’s beloved Best of the World franchise, which has established itself as a trusted authority on extraordinary travel experiences. Porowski’s exploration takes him to Mexico City, Paris, London, and his own hometown of New York City, creating a diverse tapestry of urban adventures that span continents and cultures.
What sets this series apart is Porowski’s commitment to discovering what truly makes a destination unforgettable. Rather than focusing solely on famous landmarks, he seeks out the hidden gems and local favorites that define a city’s unique character. Each episode presents a carefully curated window into the culture, craft, and creativity that gives each location its distinctive flavor.
Exclusive Access and One-of-a-Kind Experiences
The series delivers several remarkable experiences that viewers cannot find anywhere else. In London, Porowski gains rare access inside Big Ben’s Great Clock, exploring the intricate mechanics and rich history behind one of the world’s most recognizable timepieces. Paris provides an opportunity to witness the generations-old artistry of cheese making at Quatrehomme, where traditional techniques have been perfected over decades.
Mexico City offers a particularly surreal experience at Quetzalcoatl’s Nest, where Porowski drifts through an otherworldly dreamscape that blends ancient symbolism with contemporary design. Back in New York, he participates in the iconic New York City Marathon, distributing medals alongside dedicated volunteers at the finish line—a powerful reminder of the community spirit that makes the city special.
Each destination opens up a vivid slice of local culture, showcasing the skill, passion, and creativity that residents pour into their crafts and communities.
Porowski’s Personal Philosophy on Travel and Discovery
The series reflects Porowski’s deeply held belief that travel serves as a pathway to understanding both the world and oneself. His reflections on the journey emphasize that what makes a place truly special extends far beyond the monuments and museums featured in guidebooks.
“Travel has always been my way of understanding the world — and myself,” Porowski shared. “Exploring these cities alongside the people who call them home reminded me that what makes a place special isn’t just what you see, but who you meet and the stories you’re invited into.”
This philosophy permeates every episode, creating an intimate connection between viewer and destination that traditional travel programming often misses.
Expanding the Experience Beyond Television
National Geographic has developed robust companion content to extend the series’ reach and engagement. A new YouTube series will launch on June 9, produced in collaboration with local creators from each featured city. These creators team up with Porowski to spotlight their personal recommendations for the best experiences in their homelands, offering insider perspectives that complement the main episodes.
The official NatGeo.com/BestOfTheWorld website provides additional resources for viewers inspired to plan their own adventures. Readers can access a quarterly installment of the Best of the World franchise content, a curated “Best of the World 2026” food list highlighting exceptional culinary experiences, and four detailed itineraries derived from each episode. These itineraries serve as practical guides for travelers seeking to experience the same cities, flavors, and local favorites that Porowski discovered during his journey.
Legacy and Production Credits
The series represents National Geographic’s continued commitment to storytelling that inspires meaningful engagement with the world. The Best of the World franchise has established itself as the ultimate field-tested guide to extraordinary experiences, offering evidence-based content that encourages thoughtful exploration of people and places.
Best of the World with Antoni Porowski is produced by Twofour, a production company that is part of ITV Studios. Nic Patten and Tom Currie serve as executive producers for Twofour. The National Geographic team includes executive producers Betsy Forhan and Yari Lorenzo, with Charlie Parsons serving as senior vice president of development. Bengant Anderson oversees unscripted production as Senior Vice President, while Tom McDonald holds the position of Executive Vice President of National Geographic content.
