US, Indonesia, France, China, Nigeria, Mexico, Spain, South Africa, Colombia, and Thailand named the ultimate food destinations of 2025 with bold flavors and unbeatable culinary experiences

US, Indonesia, France, China, Nigeria, Mexico, Spain, South Africa, Colombia, and Thailand top the list of 2025’s best food cities with bold flavors and must-try dishes.

Food lovers, take note! Time Out has unveiled its highly anticipated ranking of the top culinary destinations worldwide for 2025, and the results are sizzling hot. While global heavyweights like Paris, Madrid, and Bangkok made the cut, it’s New Orleans that claims the crown as the ultimate food city. With its rich mix of French, Spanish, Vietnamese, and African culinary influences, the Big Easy has outshined the competition.

Here’s a look at the ten must-visit cities for an unforgettable food experience:

. Jakarta, Indonesia

Jakarta is a melting pot of flavors, where Indonesian heritage meets Dutch, Indian, Chinese, and Middle Eastern influences. Whether it’s the aromatic street food of Jalan Sabang—where sizzling satay, Madura-style noodles, and claypot rice steal the show—or high-end dining spots like Caspar and Henshin, the city serves up a dynamic gastronomic experience.

. Paris, France

Paris continues to be a culinary powerhouse, where tradition meets modern innovation. While the city’s famed bistros and brasseries hold their charm, new-wave dining spots like Le Gabriel and Lissit are redefining classic French fare. Whether you’re indulging in escargots, buttery croissants, or a multi-course Michelin-starred meal, Paris remains a dream for food connoisseurs.

. Shanghai, China

With thousands of years of culinary history, Shanghai offers a dizzying array of flavors. From shengjianbao—pan-fried soup dumplings with crispy bottoms—to regional specialties from across China, the city is a paradise for food explorers. Street markets, high-end Cantonese eateries, and experimental fusion cuisine all contribute to Shanghai’s status as a global food destination.

. Lagos, Nigeria

Lagos is an electrifying culinary hotspot where bold flavors and vibrant street food scenes thrive. Whether it’s the smoky spice of party jollof rice, deep-fried puff-puff, or succulent suya skewers, the city’s food culture is as rich as its music and nightlife. Affordable yet packed with taste, Lagos is a must-visit for anyone craving a fiery, flavorful experience.

. Mexico City, Mexico

Mexico City is a dynamic blend of old and new, where tacos al pastor are as revered as fine dining institutions like Pujol and Quintonil. The city’s evolving food scene now embraces international influences, with top-tier Italian, Korean, and Thai restaurants making their mark. Whether it’s street eats or avant-garde gastronomy, CDMX continues to impress.

. Madrid, Spain

Spain’s capital is a playground for food lovers, where tradition meets cutting-edge culinary techniques. Madrid’s gastronomic scene is thriving, from the tapas bars of La Latina to Michelin-starred restaurants like La Tasquería. Looking for something extraordinary? Pabú’s fresh, locally inspired dishes showcase the city’s love for innovation.

. Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town is a melting pot of cultures, blending European, Asian, and African flavors into a vibrant dining scene. Bree Street, known as “Gourmet Boulevard,” is lined with top-tier eateries, while the Time Out Market showcases the city’s finest chefs. Don’t leave without trying the iconic Gatsby—a giant, overstuffed sandwich loaded with fries, salad, and a choice of fillings.

. Medellín, Colombia

Medellín is a rising culinary star, offering incredible food at unbeatable prices. Traditional dishes like bandeja paisa—a hearty platter featuring beans, rice, meat, plantains, and arepas—sit alongside sophisticated fine-dining experiences in El Poblado. Exotic fruits like chirimoya and gulupa add to the city’s culinary allure.

. Bangkok, Thailand

Bangkok is a street food mecca where $3 meals can rival Michelin-starred dining. Whether it’s a spicy plate of som tam (green papaya salad) at Hai Som Tam Convent or a fine-dining experience at one of the city’s elite restaurants, Bangkok remains one of the world’s best destinations for food adventurers.

. New Orleans, USA

New Orleans takes the top spot in 2025, solidifying its status as the ultimate food city. Home to a rich fusion of Creole, Cajun, and international influences, the city delivers flavors that are bold, soulful, and unforgettable. From legendary classics like shrimp Creole and jambalaya to contemporary gems like Dakar and Acamaya, New Orleans celebrates food with festivals dedicated to gumbo, beignets, and everything in between.

If you’re looking to embark on a culinary adventure in 2025, these ten cities should be at the top of your travel list!