What Are The Best Food Cities in The World Right Now? Here Are The Top 20, According to Time Out

Food is often the gateway to truly experiencing a new culture, and if there’s one thing people love talking about, it’s where to get the best bites. Time Out’s recent ranking of the world’s best cities for food highlights the places where culinary experiences reign supreme—cities that offer everything from street food to Michelin-star dining. These destinations have become more than just places to grab a meal; they’ve turned into food capitals, where flavor, variety, and innovation come together in ways that’ll make any foodie’s mouth water. So, which cities earned the top spots in 2025? Let’s take a look at some of the best places in the world to savor your next meal.

New Orleans: The Undisputed Champion of Flavor

It’s no surprise that New Orleans, with its rich cultural history and deep culinary roots, has claimed the top spot in Time Out’s list of the world’s best food cities. Known for its gumbo, crawfish, po'boys, and beignets, New Orleans’ food scene draws from a unique mix of French, African, Spanish, and Creole influences, creating a truly one-of-a-kind dining experience. From the bustling French Quarter to the lesser-known local gems, this city is a mecca for anyone looking to explore bold, hearty flavors. Beyond its historic dishes, New Orleans also champions innovation, with chefs constantly reimagining traditional recipes while honoring their heritage. Whether you're indulging in crawfish étouffée at a corner bistro or savoring a fresh oyster po’boy, every bite tells a story of the city’s vibrant cultural blend.

Bangkok: A Global Street Food Paradise

Coming in strong at number two is Bangkok, a city that needs no introduction for lovers of street food. The Thai capital is a destination for foodies seeking flavors that span from spicy to sweet, with every street corner offering an endless variety of options. Time Out’s ranking highlights Bangkok’s incredible diversity in its street food offerings—from fragrant bowls of noodle soup to crispy fried chicken and savory satay. The city is a playground for those willing to experiment with unique ingredients and bold combinations. But it’s not just about quantity; the quality of food in Bangkok is consistently top-notch, with vendors often serving dishes that would rival any fine dining establishment. Whether you’re grabbing a quick snack at the bustling Chatuchak Market or dining in a Michelin-starred restaurant, Bangkok’s food scene offers something for every palate.

Tokyo: The Undisputed King of Quality

Tokyo continues to impress when it comes to food, maintaining its spot at the top of global rankings for years. Known for its sushi, ramen, and perfect execution of dishes, Tokyo is the embodiment of culinary excellence. It’s a city where high-end restaurants consistently deliver some of the best food on the planet, earning countless Michelin stars, while its ramen shops and sushi counters provide some of the most satisfying meals at any price point. Tokyo’s devotion to quality ingredients and precise cooking techniques is unparalleled. Even the most modest eateries serve up dishes that are practically perfection on a plate. For those seeking a gastronomic adventure, Tokyo is an essential destination where every meal feels like a work of art.

Mexico City: Where Tradition Meets Modern Flair

Mexico City has seen a renaissance in its food scene, landing a coveted spot among the world’s best. The Mexican capital has always been known for its street food—think tacos, tamales, and quesadillas—but now, it's also becoming a hotspot for high-end dining. Time Out's ranking emphasizes the city's ability to blend traditional Mexican dishes with contemporary flair, creating exciting, new ways to experience classic foods. Whether it’s sampling a taco al pastor from a taco stand or dining in one of Mexico City's innovative restaurants, foodies can explore the city’s vibrant culinary landscape. What makes the city stand out is its ability to seamlessly combine the old with the new, making it a true culinary crossroads.

Barcelona: A Mediterranean Feast for the Senses

Barcelona, long famous for its tapas and Catalan specialties, has cemented its place as a food lover’s paradise. Time Out highlights the city for its incredible variety of dining experiences, from the vibrant tapas bars in El Born to Michelin-starred restaurants serving contemporary Mediterranean cuisine. What sets Barcelona apart is its dedication to fresh, high-quality ingredients that embody the Mediterranean lifestyle. Seafood is a standout in this city, with dishes like paella and fresh oysters taking center stage. Whether you're enjoying a casual meal or indulging in an upscale tasting menu, Barcelona offers an experience that celebrates the richness of the Mediterranean region.

Los Angeles: The Ultimate Fusion Food Hub

Los Angeles has firmly planted itself as one of the most exciting food cities in the world, ranking high on Time Out’s list for 2025. Known for its vibrant, multicultural food scene, LA is where you can taste everything from tacos and sushi to Korean BBQ and vegan delights. The city’s culinary diversity is unmatched, and that’s thanks to its melting pot of cultures—from Mexican and Korean to Thai and Middle Eastern influences, LA is the place to be for fusion food. Time Out highlights LA for its innovative dining scene, with chefs constantly pushing boundaries to offer something fresh. Whether you're visiting a food truck or dining at one of the city’s Michelin-starred restaurants, Los Angeles never disappoints when it comes to exciting flavors.

Why These Cities Made the Cut

So, what makes these cities the best for food? It’s a combination of factors that go beyond just having great food. Time Out’s rankings take into account things like the diversity of the food scene, the quality of ingredients, the level of innovation, and the cultural significance of the dishes being served. Each of these cities offers something unique, whether it’s the authenticity of New Orleans’ Creole dishes, Bangkok’s street food culture, or the perfection of Tokyo’s sushi. In a world where food trends evolve constantly, these cities manage to stay at the forefront, offering both tradition and innovation in every bite.

The Complete List of The 20 Best Food Cities on 2025

1. New Orleans, USA
2. Bangkok, Thailand
3. Medellín, Colombia
4. Cape Town, South Africa
5. Madrid, Spain
6. Mexico City, Mexico
7. Lagos, Nigeria
8. Shanghai, China
9. Paris, France
10. Tokyo, Japan
11. Marrakech, Morocco
12. Lima, Peru
13. Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
14. Mumbai, India
15. Abu Dhabi, UAE
16. Cairo, Egypt
17. Porto, Portugal
18. Montreal, Canada
19. Naples, Italy
20. San José, Costa Rica