From delicate French crepes to fluffy American buttermilk pancakes, pancakes are more than just a breakfast dish – they're also a culinary symbol of many countries around the world.
Here's a list of the 10 best pancakes on the planet in 2025, as voted by CNN Travel's culinary experts. Save them to enjoy when you have the opportunity to visit these countries!
1. Socca – Mediterranean Flavor from Italy
Originating from the Liguria region of Italy, socca is made from chickpea flour, water and olive oil. The cake is usually baked in a wood-fired oven, creating a light, crispy crust and a distinctive aroma. In Nice (France), socca is sold as a street food and is often sprinkled with black pepper for flavor.
2. Blini – The Essence of Russian Cuisine
Blini are thin pancakes made from buckwheat flour. They are served with caviar, smoked salmon or sour cream. On Fat Tuesday, Russians eat blini to start the Lenten season.
3. Hottokeki – Fluffy Japanese Pancakes
Hottokeki (ホットケーキ) is a Japanese pancake that is famous for its softness. Japanese people often eat hottokeki with whipped cream, jam, syrup or even bacon. This dish is not only delicious but also extremely eye-catching!
4. Crepe – Icon of French Cuisine
Crepe is a super thin pancake that can be eaten savory (cheese, cold cuts) or sweet (jam, syrup, chocolate). Originating from the Brittany region, crepes have become a global symbol of French cuisine.
5. Buttermilk Pancakes – American Breakfast Specialty
Thick, soft and spongy – American pancakes are often topped with maple syrup and served with crispy bacon. Modern recipes use buttermilk to add a slightly sour taste, increasing the smoothness of the pancakes.
6. Latkes – Israeli delicacy
Latkes are crispy potato pancakes, served with sour cream or applesauce. This is an indispensable dish during the Hanukkah festival, loved for its crispy crust and characteristic nutty taste.
7. Masala Dosa – National Breakfast of India
Masala dosa is a thin, crispy pancake made from fermented rice and lentils, filled with potatoes, turmeric, and coriander. The dish is often served with curry and chutney – a "must-try" for those who love Indian cuisine.
8. Lemon Sugar Pancakes – Traditional British Flavor
British pancakes are often drizzled with lemon juice and sugar. It sounds simple, but this combination makes the flavor explode - slightly sour, slightly sweet, worth trying.
9. Scallion Pancakes - A rustic Chinese dish
Not as sweet as Western pancakes, Chinese scallion pancakes are slightly salty, chewy and crispy, dipped in soy sauce or chili sauce. In Shanghai, this dish is also added with pork fat for a richer aroma.
10. Pikelets - The pride of Australian cuisine
Pikelets are small, thick and soft pancakes, often served with strawberries, whipped cream or honey. This is a favorite dish at Australian afternoon tea.
Bonus: Other pancakes worth trying
• Kimchi pancake (Korea) – spicy and crunchy, full of fermented kimchi
• Cachapas (Venezuela) – sweet corn pancakes filled with cheese
• Cholermus (Switzerland) – soft egg pancakes, often served with powdered sugar and jam
Conclusion
Pancakes are not only delicious but also a part of each country’s culture. If you are a travel and food lover, don’t miss the chance to try these unique pancakes on your journey to explore the world!
