These are the top food cities in the world

Food is so deeply embedded in culture that any travel experience is incomplete without it. So if food is a paramount consideration in your travel plans, here’s a list of the best food cities in the world right now.

CONDE NAST asked its readers to rank their favourite food capitals of the world as part of a Readers' Choice Awards survey. Asian cities dominate the list, but many European and Canadian cities also ranked among the top food destinations. Here’s the complete list:

15. London

PHOTO: Cinnamon Club

Touted for culinary diversity, London is perhaps one of the most-loved cities in Europe. Passionate about its own heritage yet boldly forward-thinking, the city is one of the top travel destinations for foodies. Traditional British, modern experimental, Indian, middle-eastern or oriental; the city caters to every palate.

14. Vancouver, BC

PHOTO: vancitybuzz

A city that loves food, you won’t have trouble finding dim sum, pasta, or goat curry in Vancouver. Due to a large expat community, the city offers largely Asian-inspired cuisine. Seafood is also a big part of Vancouver food culture.

13. Rio de Janeiro

PHOTO: Aprazivel

Rio de Janeiro has a bustling restaurant scene thanks to the World Cup and the Summer Olympics. It’s a great time to be in Rio, especially if you’re a food-obsessed traveller. From meat to seafood specialities, there is much to tantalise the taste buds.

12. Sydney

PHOTO: Toffee Cases

Australia is one of the hottest destinations for foodies across the globe. The inviting coffee bars and restaurants alone are worth a trip across the globe. You will not be disappointed.

11. Toronto

PHOTO: Torontolife

It seems that cities offering a diverse gastronomic experience are traveller favourites. Loved for its alluring, multiethnic atmosphere, Toronto is also a favourite for it food scene which is no less varied. A food journey in Toronto is utterly rewarding.

10. Tokyo



Tokyo boasts the highest number of Michelin-starred restaurants in the world; that alone is reason enough to travel there. You will be treated to extraordinary dining experiences, be it at a ramen bar or an upscale restaurant.

9. Shanghai

PHOTO: thewoksoflife

Fried scallion pancakes? Dumplings? Chinese is among the most loved cuisines in the world. Roadside vendors or restaurant dining, there is much to explore, learn and relish in Shanghai.

8. Singapore

PHOTO: Asian Urban Epicenters

A celebrated destination among foodies, Singapore should be on every traveller's bucket list. Be it the famous pepper crab, south Indian specialities or Asian; nothing here will not charm the food-loving traveller. The city’s lively street-food centres are bound to become your happy place.

7. Taipei



From tongue-numbing Szechuan dishes to Cantonese dim sum, Taipei’s food culture is influenced by the cuisines of the Mainland Chinese who’ve settled in the city.

6. Gustavia, St Barts

PHOTO: st-barths

The former French colony has a widely celebrated cuisine. From exotic seafood dishes to raw greens, the food here is as inviting as the white sand beaches.

5. Tel Aviv

PHOTO: Israeltoday

Tel Aviv food culture has evolved recently. There is much to charm the food enthusiasts including an array of Mediterranean meals.

4. Buenos Aires



Although known for its steakhouses, Argentinian cuisine is described as an amalgam of Mediterranean influences. While the steaks houses are a must visit there is much more to enjoy in the city that offers delectable seafood.

3. Hong Kong

PHOTO: entouriste

Irresistible street food, Michelin-starred restaurants, Hong Kong has it all. Steamed buns, dim sum, roast goose drumstick with noodle or rice; you will be spoiled for choice.

2. Dubai

PHOTO: shortlistDubai

Dubai? Yes, Dubai undeniably has attractive and bustling food culture. Famous fast-food franchises, ethnic offerings, and seafood specialities, there is more to sample than the wallet allows. Dubai is certainly a gourmet expedition not to be missed.

1. Cape Town



Eating great food at one of the world’s most beautiful locations in the world, yes that’s on top of the list. Have fish and chips by the sea or head to the food market or one of the more refined eateries. Each experience is bound to be satisfying.