Taste of Home: sharing global flavours
Across the world, something as simple as sharing a meal can shape how happy we feel. The World Happiness Report 2025 found that eating with others is just as important to our well-being as income or having a job. In fact, people who regularly share meals report feeling more supported, less lonely, and more connected to their communities.
Yet at the same time, more people than ever are eating alone. That shift isn’t just about lifestyle; it’s changing how we relate to each other.
Our 'Taste of Home' project explores a simple idea: what if we made it easier to find local ingredients, cook dishes from different cultures, and share them with others?
Because when we share food, we’re not just feeding ourselves; we’re building bridges between cultures, stories, and people.
Find shops in and around Leuven
Check out the interactive map to learn about the shops in and around Leuven that specialize in ingredients from abroad.
Did you know we also have a print map?
You can download the PDF here or pick up a printed version from IHL or ask for one at the Visit Leuven counter.
Meet the owners
Community food stories
Getting involved
Would you like to share your food story? Or suggest a shop you think should be on the map? Use the forms below to let us know!