One of my favorite things to do in Europe is to eat. What is the point in getting out and experiencing a different culture and a different part of the world if you're not willing to get out of your culinary comfort zone and try the local cuisine. Get used to the fact that ketchup on every table is not a cultural universal. In fact, it might be considered "bad form" to ask for it at all. Sometimes trying a different food might be as easy as trying Nutella crêpes in Paris. But it may be more adventurous, like trying calimari in a sauce made of squid ink in Venice.
Feel free to indulge a little. In Munich I pick up a quick lunch at the Viktualienmarkt, usually with a little beer. On an evening stroll through Montmartre in Paris I might pick up a crêpe (Nutella or strawberry). In Italy I make it my mission to seek out and sample the best gelato in every town.
A few reminders about eating in Europe:
- Some restaurants may expect you to sit for a couple of hours to enjoy your meal. If you have a limited amount of time (say, for lunch) you may want to consider a stand-up meal.
-Eating well does not require you to break the bank. Shop around for a less touristy restaurant and order the daily special. It's usually whatever is in season. A good mean can be had for around €15.
Check out Rick Steves' rules for European restaurants:
http://www.ricksteves.com/tms/article.cfm?id=247&extras=false
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