New Orleans Tops 2025 Best Food Cities List

Food enthusiasts worldwide are gearing up for an exciting culinary experience as Time Out has revealed its highly awaited list of the best food cities for 2025. This year's rankings have recognized several cities globally, but it’s New Orleans that has earned the top position, demonstrating a remarkable fusion of flavor and culture.

United States' New Orleans, celebrated for its distinctive Creole and Cajun cuisines, has unseated other culinary strongholds to become the world’s ultimate gastronomic destination. The city is known for its soulful dishes that resonate with a blend of French, Spanish, African, and Vietnamese influences. Inhabiting the heart of the Big Easy, culinary delights like jambalaya and gumbo are no longer just favorites among locals but attract food tourists from around the globe.

In a release by Time Out, cities were ranked based on various factors, including flavors, affordability, and unique culinary innovation. Notably, New Orleans has solidified its prestige with a culinary scene that celebrates its rich heritage with inventive twists that respect traditional recipes.

“The combination of rich culinary history and the vibrant cultural blend makes New Orleans a must-visit for food lovers,” the report states. It offers an opportunity to explore the history of American cuisine, particularly the influences that have shaped the region.

While New Orleans lifts the trophy this year, several other cities have also made a significant mark on the global foodie map. Jakarta, in Indonesia, offers a melting pot of flavors, showcasing rich dishes influenced by Dutch, Indian, Chinese, and Middle Eastern cultures. The city's street food scene, notably along Jalan Sabang, is a highlight, featuring delicious satays and other tasty bites that pack a punch.

Another standout is Paris, which continues to hold its own as a culinary powerhouse. The City of Lights combines age-old bistro culture with modern innovations, continuously offering food lovers an experience that ranges from classic French cuisines to avant-garde dining options like Le Gabriel.

Shanghai is not to be overlooked, offering an entertaining mix of traditional and modern dishes that entice those with adventurous palates. The city's holistic approach to food culture encompasses everything from bustling street markets to top-tier dining establishments, ensuring that every visitor can find something delightful.

African cities, particularly Lagos and Cape Town, have risen in prominence on this year's list. Cape Town, nestled at the southern tip of South Africa, was rated the best city for food and drink in 2025. According to the Time Out ranking, Cape Town boasts a 95% approval rating from locals regarding their dining experiences. The city stands out for its vibrant atmosphere, blending European, Asian, and African flavors into unique culinary creations that leave an indelible mark on visitors’ palates. Locals describe their food as “delicious,” with various dining options that continue to evolve and surprise.

Lagos is also making waves as one of the most budget-friendly food cities globally. Not only do 88% of Lagos residents agree that grabbing a drink is affordable, but 68% confirm that dining out is inexpensive. Lagosians have labeled their food scene as “delicious,” along with descriptors like “healthy” and “traditional,” revealing an enriching culinary landscape.

Cairo, another noteworthy mention, got significant praise as 90% of its residents rated their food scene positively. Although dining at restaurants was less affordable than in other cities, 82% of locals found that grabbing a drink remains budget-friendly, signaling a strong food culture that the city is proud of.

Further south, Marrakech is celebrated for its diverse and traditional dining offerings, securing a spot among the top gastronomic locales worldwide. As the city provides rich culinary traditions at affordable prices, tourists continue to flock to experience its delicious dishes.

The list crafted by Time Out aims to highlight the diversity and richness of global cuisine, serving as an opportunity for travelers to explore cities that may surprise them with their culinary prowess. Each city was judged on 18 distinct criteria, considering not only expert opinions from food critics and chefs but also insights from locals.

As the world opens its doors to travelers and food lovers alike, these cities are poised to shape the future of culinary tourism. By embracing tradition while innovating, they continue to create memorable experiences that resonate with both locals and visitors.

So, whether it’s the bold flavors of New Orleans or the diverse offerings from Cape Town’s trendy eateries, the culinary adventures that await in 2025 are undeniably thrilling. Food enthusiasts now have an exciting roadmap to explore, promising to lead them through a spectrum of tastes, cultures, and delightful experiences.