Mumbai has once again proven why it is often called the food capital of India. In the latest TasteAtlas “100 Best Food Cities to Visit in 2026” global ranking, Mumbai has claimed the 5th position, making it the only Indian city to break into the top 10. The list, compiled from millions of user reviews and expert evaluations, recognises cities that offer authentic, diverse and culturally rooted food experiences.
TasteAtlas praised Mumbai for its unmatched street-food culture a key reason behind its high ranking. The city’s culinary personality is defined by iconic dishes like vada pav, pav bhaji, pani puri, bhelpuri, misal pav, kheema pav and modaks. The guide also highlighted how Mumbai blends flavours from different communities: Maharashtrian, Gujarati, Parsi, Goan, South Indian and international influences, making it a vibrant melting pot of tastes.
Beyond street food, Mumbai’s evolving fine-dining scene, food trucks, café culture and regional speciality restaurants played a major role in strengthening its global presence. From century-old eateries at Mohammed Ali Road to modern gastronomy-led restaurants in Bandra and Lower Parel, the city offers a complete spectrum of culinary experiences.
While Mumbai shone brightly, five other Indian cities also secured their place on the world stage:
Amritsar (48th) – Famous for its robust Punjabi flavours, Amritsar impressed with its soulful offerings like Amritsari kulcha, sarson ka saag, makki di roti, chole bhature and lassi. Its traditional dhabas and langar culture continue to attract global admiration.
New Delhi (53rd) – Delhi earned praise for its rich Mughlai heritage and elite street-food scene. Classics like butter chicken, kebabs, chole kulche, golgappa, nihari and chaats helped the capital secure its spot.
Hyderabad (54th) – TasteAtlas highlighted Hyderabad’s legendary Hyderabadi biryani, haleem and Nizami dishes as major contributors to its ranking. The city’s royal culinary background remains a strong global draw.
Kolkata (73rd) – Known for its sweets and snacks, Kolkata’s food identity is shaped by rosogolla, mishti doi, kathi rolls, puchkas and macher jhol. It retains a charming mix of old Bengali culinary traditions and cosmopolitan influences.
Chennai (93rd) – Representing the South, Chennai impressed with timeless staples like dosa, idli, filter coffee, Pongal and Chettinad cuisine. Its consistency in offering comforting and flavourful food earned it a place in the top 100.
Internationally, Italian cities dominated the top spots, with Naples ranking No. 1 as the world’s best food city, followed by Milan, Bologna and Florence. Their strong culinary heritage and global popularity gave them an edge on the list.
India’s presence with six cities in the global ranking highlights the country’s extraordinary culinary diversity and its rising influence in the international food landscape. Mumbai’s top-five position, in particular, reinforces the global appeal of its food culture one that is dynamic, inclusive, and deeply rooted in tradition.