15 Polarizing Foods Only The Bold Appreciate

There are foods that bring people together, and then there are the ones that start debates. Only the bold can truly say they enjoy these divisive dishes.

Shirako

Fish sperm sacs aren’t exactly crowd-pleasers, but there’s a loyal following for this Japanese delicacy.

Marmite (or Vegemite)

This yeast extract spread splits the world in two. Australians and Brits swear by it, while everyone else tries a tiny taste and calls it quits.

Durian

The “King of Fruits” is banned from hotels and subways across Southeast Asia for its infamous odor. It tastes sweet to some and like onions to others. Brave souls only.

Century Egg

This preserved egg has a devoted fan base in China and a legion of skeptics everywhere else. Its jelly-like texture makes it unforgettable.

Escamol

Also called “ant caviar,” escamol is beloved by many in Mexico and avoided by visitors who are just there for the tacos.

Beondegi

Steamed silkworm pupae are nutty, protein-packed, and either the best thing you’ve tried or a once-in-a-lifetime snack. No middle ground here.

Jellied Moose Nose

This gelatinous northern delicacy is a staple for some Canadians. For everyone else, it’s a horror story in a bowl.

Balut

Filipino street food royalty. The fertilized duck egg inspires pride and disgust in equal measure, depending on your zip code.

Bat Soup

This is either a special-occasion delicacy or the reason you left the table. There’s no in-between for a dish that features a whole bat.

Chicken Feet

Dim sum diehards swear by these. Others swear off dim sum entirely after one bite. The texture alone creates lifelong fans and fast escape artists.

Blood Soup (Dinuguan)

Pork blood stew is a homey comfort for some Filipinos and a “hard pass” for most tourists. You have to be bold to even try it.

Casu marzu

Sardinian maggot cheese is legendary. For fans, it’s the ultimate treat. For everyone else, it’s an “I’ll just have bread” moment.

Escargots à la Bourguignonne

Garlicky French snails divide even the best of friends. You’ll either love the earthy flavor or spend the rest of dinner eyeing the bread basket.

Fried Spider

Cambodian fried tarantulas are celebrated by locals and feared by tourists. If you finish one, you’re definitely in the bold camp.

Hákarl

Fermented shark has been called the most revolting food on earth. Icelanders love it, but most visitors gag before the fork even reaches their mouth.