Food is an essential part of travel, with many people choosing their destinations based on the culinary experiences they can have. Whether it’s savoring street food, indulging in fine dining, or discovering hidden local gems, food lovers are always on the hunt for the best places to satisfy their cravings. As 2025 approaches, Time Out has revealed the best cities in the world for food, based on a global survey of over 18,500 people. The results highlight a diverse mix of flavors, cultures, and dining experiences, making these cities must-visit destinations for anyone who enjoys good food.
New Orleans has been crowned the world’s best city for food in 2025. The Louisiana city has long been known for its rich and diverse food culture, blending influences from French, Spanish, Vietnamese, and African cuisines. Local favorites such as gumbo, jambalaya, and beignets have made New Orleans a top destination for food enthusiasts. The city’s lively food scene, combined with its deep culinary history, makes it an irresistible spot for those looking to experience authentic flavors.
Bangkok, Thailand, secures the second spot, offering a mix of Michelin-starred fine dining and affordable street food. The Thai capital is famous for its bustling food markets, where visitors can enjoy delicious meals for just a few dollars. From spicy papaya salads to fragrant bowls of boat noodles, Bangkok’s food scene is vibrant and varied. Its dedication to preserving traditional Thai cuisine while also embracing modern gastronomy has earned it a well-deserved place among the best foodie destinations.
Medellín, Colombia, takes third place, standing out for its affordability and high-quality coffee. Once known for its turbulent past, Medellín has transformed into a thriving cultural hub, and its food scene has played a crucial role in this evolution. Visitors can enjoy dishes such as bandeja paisa, a hearty platter featuring beans, rice, avocado, fried egg, and meats, or sip on some of the world’s best coffee in charming cafés. The combination of affordability, quality ingredients, and innovation makes Medellín a rising star in the global food scene.
Cape Town, South Africa, ranks fourth, celebrated for its coastal cuisine and diverse culinary offerings. The city is famous for its seafood, with fresh fish and shellfish taking center stage in many restaurants. The fusion of indigenous African flavors with European and Asian influences creates a unique dining experience that attracts food lovers from around the world. Whether enjoying a meal with a view of Table Mountain or exploring the Cape Winelands, visitors to Cape Town are guaranteed an unforgettable gastronomic journey.
Madrid, Spain, rounds out the top five, boasting a food scene that is both diverse and experimental. Traditional tapas bars coexist with innovative fine-dining establishments, offering a wide range of culinary experiences. The Spanish capital has become a hub for food lovers, where dishes such as patatas bravas, jamón ibérico, and churros with chocolate are enjoyed in lively plazas and historic neighborhoods. Madrid’s commitment to culinary excellence and its vibrant food culture make it a standout destination.
Other cities featured in the top ten include Mexico City, known for its dynamic and ever-evolving food scene, and Lagos, Nigeria, where locals feast on jollof rice and smoky suya. Shanghai’s adventurous culinary landscape, Paris’ timeless gastronomic tradition, and Jakarta’s bold flavors also secure spots on the list. Each of these cities offers something unique, reflecting their rich culinary histories and contemporary influences.
For food lovers planning their 2025 travel itinerary, these cities should be at the top of the list. Whether indulging in Creole cuisine in New Orleans, savoring street food in Bangkok, or discovering the flavors of Cape Town, the world is filled with incredible gastronomic experiences waiting to be explored.
