Article Today, Hyderabad:
India’s rich culinary diversity has once again earned global recognition. In the latest list released by global food guide TasteAtlas, six Indian cities have found a place among the Top 100 food destinations of the world. Hyderabad, known for its iconic biryani, stands proudly at the 50th position, highlighting its long-standing culinary legacy.
A Global Stage for Indian Flavours…
TasteAtlas, an international food research guide, released the rankings based on a detailed analysis of 15,478 traditional dishes, sourced from a massive database of 17,073 cities and 477,287 food ratings. The platform focuses on authentic local recipes, traditional ingredients, and popular restaurants that define each region’s food culture.
In this year’s rankings, Mumbai leads among Indian cities at 5th place, followed by Amritsar (43rd), Delhi (45th), Hyderabad (50th), Kolkata (71st), and Chennai (75th). This recognition celebrates India’s timeless food heritage and regional culinary excellence.
Hyderabad: The Land of Biryani
Ranked 50th, Hyderabad continues to charm global food lovers with its aromatic biryani, a dish that reflects the fusion of Mughal, Turkish, and Iranian influences. But the city offers much more. Popular favourites like Chicken 65, kebabs, and haleem during Ramzan add depth to its food culture. The unique use of Telangana spices and slow-cooking techniques makes Hyderabad’s cuisine rich, layered, and unforgettable. According to culinary historian Alok Singh, Hyderabadi biryani is “a cultural blend on a plate”, showcasing the historical journey of the region.
Mumbai: A Street Food Haven
Mumbai secures the 5th spot globally, thanks to its vibrant street food culture. The city’s fast-paced lifestyle is matched by its quick, flavour-packed bites—vada pav, pav bhaji, ragda patties, and Bombay biryani dominate the food scene. Iconic eateries like Ram Ashraya, Shree Thaker Bhojanalay, and Café Madras have elevated Mumbai’s local cuisine to international fame, making it a true food lover’s paradise.
Amritsar: Bold Flavours of Punjab
Amritsar, at 43rd place, offers a hearty culinary experience rooted in Punjab’s rich food traditions. Dishes like Amritsari kulcha, juicy chicken tikka, buttery shahi paneer, and tandoori murgh have captivated taste buds across the world. The generous use of ghee and spices, combined with robust cooking methods, gives Amritsari food a bold, soulful flavour that leaves a lasting impression.
Delhi: Where History Meets the Plate
Ranked 45th, Delhi blends Mughal heritage and modern innovations in its cuisine. Classic dishes like chole bhature, butter chicken, and nihari reflect the city’s culinary evolution. Delhi’s bustling markets and food lanes serve as living museums of taste. From refined restaurant dishes to vibrant street stalls, the capital offers an extraordinary mix of flavour, culture, and nostalgia.
Kolkata: A taste of Tradition and Nostalgia
Kolkata, placed 71st, is famous for its kathi rolls, mughlai parathas, and sweet delicacies like rosogolla. The use of mustard oil, British-era influences, and traditional Bengali techniques define the city’s distinct food identity. Every bite in Kolkata is wrapped in history, warmth, and creativity, making it a beloved destination for food explorers.
Chennai: Gateway to South Indian Flavours
At 75th position, Chennai represents the soul of South Indian cuisine. From crispy dosas and soft idlis to spicy Chettinad curries, the city offers a vast range of comforting, home-style dishes.
Traditional flavours, tempered with mustard seeds and curry leaves, form the core of Chennai’s food culture. Here, every dish tells a story rooted in the region’s tradition and simplicity.
Italy Dominates Global Top Ten…
While India celebrated its six entries, Italy emerged as the undisputed leader in this year’s list. An incredible six Italian cities made it to the top 10. Cities like Naples, Milan, Bologna, Florence, Rome, and Turin stood out for their outstanding local cuisine. This dominance reflects Italy’s global stature as a food capital.
Culinary Pride for India…
The presence of Indian cities in the top 100 reflects a growing international appreciation for India’s culinary heritage. From street-side snacks to royal dishes, India’s food speaks of history, diversity, and deep-rooted traditions. The TasteAtlas ranking is not just a global nod—it’s a reminder of the flavours that make India truly incredible.
