The mediating role of mental well-being in the effect of local food experience on destination loyalty

This study explores the mediating role of mental well-being in the relationship between local food experience and destination loyalty. A mixed-methods design was employed, combining a quantitative survey of 420 domestic tourists in Türkiye with in-depth interviews of seven participants. The quantitative findings, analysed through PLS- SEM, indicate that local food experiences significantly influence both mental well-being and destination loyalty, and that mental well-being partially mediates this relationship. Qualitative data, analysed through interpretative phenomenological analysis, reveal six main themes: hedonism, social interaction, personal benefit, escape from routine, authenticity, and social benefit. These findings suggest that beyond sensory pleasure, meaningful social interactions and a sense of belonging contribute to well-being and encourage repeat visits. This research offers theoretical insights by integrating eudaimonic and hedonic perspectives of well-being into tourism behaviour, and practical implications for destination managers aiming to strengthen loyalty through culinary experiences.