Mumbai Ranks in Top 10 of World’s Best Food Cities
Discover how Mumbai claimed a top 10 spot on TasteAtlas’s Best Food Cities 2024–25 list, outshining Delhi and others.
Mumbai Shines in TasteAtlas Global Food Rankings, Leaving Delhi Behind
In a world where food defines culture as much as geography, cities that satisfy both soul and stomach gain international recognition. This year, the celebrated food guide TasteAtlas released its “100 Best Food Cities in the World 2024–25” rankings, and Mumbai earned a remarkable place in the top 10. It’s a big culinary win for India—and an even bigger bragging right for the bustling metropolis that beat out New Delhi and other Indian favorites in the global taste sweepstakes.
Italy Still Dominates, But India Makes a Statement
Unsurprisingly, Italian cities dominated the upper ranks, with Naples, Milan, Bologna, and Florence securing four of the top five spots. Known as the birthplace of pizza, Naples earned the number one position, boasting an enduring culinary legacy that includes Neapolitan pizza, sfogliatella, and seafood favorites like spaghetti alle vongole.
However, amidst this sea of pasta and prosciutto, Mumbai stood tall at number five—rising above not only other Indian cities but global culinary giants like Paris and Osaka.
Why Mumbai Is a Global Culinary Powerhouse
What sets Mumbai apart is its remarkable diversity. A city built on migration and multiculturalism, its food scene is a fusion of flavors, textures, and traditions. Street food reigns supreme here—vada pav, a humble potato fritter sandwich, is practically a city emblem. Pav bhaji, a spiced vegetable mash paired with buttered buns, serves as comfort food for millions.
Beyond the street carts, Mumbai’s seafood game is equally impressive. Dishes like bombil fry (crispy Bombay duck) reflect the city’s coastal heritage. Add to that the influence of Parsi cafés, Gujarati thalis, South Indian tiffins, and modern fusion bistros, and you have a dining ecosystem as varied as the city itself.
According to food critic and culinary historian Kunal Vijayakar, “Mumbai isn’t just a food city—it’s a food movement. Every street, every stall tells a story.”
Other Indian Cities That Made the Cut
While Mumbai led the Indian charge, other cities also earned their place on the list—just not as high. New Delhi, at number 45, brought its bold North Indian flavors to the spotlight. From crispy golgappas to rich butter chicken, the capital continues to be a haven for spice lovers.
Amritsar, ranking 43rd, offered a taste of soulful Punjabi fare. Its famous kulchas and Golden Temple langar meals are as rich in tradition as they are in flavor.
Hyderabad (50th) served up its royal biryani legacy, while Kolkata (71st) showcased a blend of Bengali seafood and irresistible sweets. Chennai (75th) rounded out the Indian representation with South Indian staples like dosa, idli, and sambar, proving that regional cuisine remains India’s greatest culinary asset.
The Global Flavor Landscape: Europe, Japan, and Beyond
While Italy’s dominance was clear, cities like Paris (7th) and Vienna (8th) brought elegance and tradition to the mix. Paris, with its buttery croissants and refined mains, and Vienna, with its schnitzels and sachertorte, remind us how deeply food and identity are intertwined.
Osaka (10th), often dubbed Japan’s street food capital, closed out the top ten with playful, flavorful fare like takoyaki and okonomiyaki.
These rankings reflect not just taste, but also culture, consistency, and culinary storytelling. Cities that made the list are those where food is more than sustenance—it’s an experience.
What Makes a Great Food City?
TasteAtlas considered several factors for its rankings—authenticity, consistency, cultural impact, and global popularity. Cities that offered a strong sense of place through their dishes scored high. Local ingredients, long-standing traditions, and iconic flavors were all crucial metrics.
Mumbai’s rise in the rankings speaks to its ability to blend old and new. It respects its roots while also embracing culinary innovation. Whether you’re indulging in street-side chaat or dining in a luxury rooftop restaurant, the essence of the city is always on your plate.
A Culinary Win for India and an Invitation to Explore
Mumbai’s top-10 ranking isn’t just a pat on the back for the city—it’s a wake-up call to global food lovers. India’s culinary landscape is as layered and vibrant as its history, and international recognition like this helps break stereotypes and encourages deeper exploration.
As food tourism continues to grow, cities like Mumbai are poised to welcome global travelers not just with open arms, but with plates full of unforgettable flavors.
Conclusion: Where to Next on the Culinary Map?
The TasteAtlas rankings offer more than just a list—they’re a roadmap for flavor-seekers. While Italy remains a perennial favorite, Mumbai’s rise signals a shift in global food consciousness. The world is waking up to the richness of Indian cuisine beyond curries and naan. As we look ahead to 2025, travelers and foodies alike might just find their next unforgettable meal in the heart of Mumbai’s bustling lanes.
Disclaimer:
This article is based on publicly available rankings from TasteAtlas for 2024–25. Rankings are subjective and based on curated research, user feedback, and global culinary reviews. Individual preferences may vary.
source : CNBCTV18