Mumbai Secures Top 10 Spot for Best Food Worldwide
Mumbai Secures Top 10 Spot for Best Food Worldwide
Time Out conducted a survey to unveil the world’s top culinary destinations, with Naples, renowned for its pizza heritage, claiming the lead.
31st May 2024
The essence of a city resonates deeply in its cuisine, embodying cultural heritage and local identity. Through diverse flavours and culinary traditions, cities express their history, values and community spirit. From bustling street markets to celebrated restaurants, each dish tells a story, inviting visitors to taste the soul of the city.
Time Out conducted a survey to unveil the world’s top culinary destinations, with Naples, renowned for its pizza heritage, claiming the lead. Residents were polled to rate their cities’ essential dining spots, signature dishes and affordable yet high-quality bites. The findings showcased top-ranking cities by country, including Mumbai’s unexpected placement.
On the list’s No. 10 is Portland, USA, it stands out for its diverse culinary landscape rather than a single iconic dish. The city boasts a range of high-quality yet budget-friendly dining experiences. Establishments like Ki’ikibáa and Annam VL shine with their exceptional menus and affordable offerings, contributing to Portland’s renowned food scene.
Ki’ikibáa is also the winner of Portland’s restaurant of the year (2023).
Ranking at number 9, Dubai, UAE, showcases not only its impressive architecture and man-made wonders but also its rich culinary diversity. Alongside its iconic landmarks, Dubai boasts a vibrant food scene featuring both international culinary talent and authentic Middle Eastern delights such as mandi rice, shawarma and charcoal-grilled chicken.
Securing the 8th spot, Mumbai, India, pulsates with culinary vibrancy and diversity. Locals voiced their preference for fiery Manchurian, creamy butter chicken and the beloved street food, Vada Pav. Neighbourhoods like Bandra and Lower Parel emerge as culinary epicentres, hosting a myriad of restaurants offering tantalising dining experiences.
Claiming the 7th spot, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, entices with its delectable fusion of Malay, Chinese and Indian flavours. Nasi lemak, featuring coconut milk rice with anchovies, cucumber and boiled eggs, stands out as a culinary gem. The city’s dining scene offers an array of choices, from supper clubs to skyline-view bars and cosy cafes to omakase experiences. Notable establishments like Pickle Dining and Kai beckon exploration.
Securing the 6th position, Bangkok, Thailand, is celebrated for its vibrant street food culture, earning it the title of the third-most affordable city for dining out. Street vendors, whether on floating markets or bustling sidewalks, infuse the city with culinary energy. Bangkok proudly hosts 34 Michelin-starred restaurants and has earned accolades in Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants Awards, cementing its status as a global culinary hotspot.
Ranking at number 5, Beijing, China, delights meat enthusiasts with its array of flavourful dishes, including Gongbao chicken, hot pot and iconic Peking duck. Catering to vegetarians, Beijing also presents a diverse selection of stir-fried, steamed and spiced vegetarian dishes. With an emphasis on fresh local ingredients, the city offers a perfect culinary experience for all palates.
Securing the 4th position, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, epitomises the rich flavours of Vietnamese cuisine. Its bustling streets are adorned with food stalls and markets, serving up iconic dishes such as banh mi, snails, broken rice and offal stew. The city’s dining scene seamlessly blends street food authenticity with the sophistication of Michelin-starred restaurants, offering a culinary adventure for all tastes.
Securing the impressive 3rd spot, Lima, Peru, shines as the culinary epicentre of South America, boasting some of the world’s finest dining establishments. Ceviche stands out as a must-try delicacy, served in both upscale restaurants and humble local markets. Lima’s cuisine is a fusion of ancient grains, fresh seafood sourced from the Humboldt Current and influences from Chinese and Japanese immigrant communities, offering a tantalising culinary experience for all.
Ranking at an impressive 2nd place, Johannesburg, South Africa, distinguishes itself with its vibrant local flavours. While Cape Town may be renowned for its international cuisine, Johannesburg takes pride in its traditional South African delicacies. Local favourites include the Sowetan kota sandwich, bunny chow and mala mogodu. Among these delights, the Kota sandwich stands out as a must-try dish, embodying the city’s rich culinary heritage.
Securing the coveted top position, Naples, Italy, stands synonymous with the art of pizza-making. Traditional pizzerias in the city serve up the iconic “portafoglio,” a folded slice priced around €1, ideal for a quick bite on the move. Beyond pizza, Naples boasts a rich tapestry of diverse and uncomplicated cuisine, featuring delights such as pasta alla genovese and rum-soaked babà, encapsulating the essence of Italian culinary tradition.
