Cape Town has been named the best city in the world for food, according to the 2024 Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards. With an impressive score of 95.65, the city has solidified its reputation as a global culinary capital, offering a rich array of flavors and gastronomic experiences.
The Mother City’s diverse food scene draws from African, Dutch, Malay, and Indian influences, creating a vibrant fusion of flavors. From Cape Malay curries and Dutch-inspired potjies to Indian biryanis, Cape Town’s cuisine reflects the city’s multicultural heritage. Whether enjoying a traditional braai with pap (maize porridge) or fresh seafood by the waterfront, every meal offers a unique taste of the city’s rich culture.
Cape Town topped a list of cities including Milan, Valencia, and Tokyo, securing its place as a global food destination. Enver Duminy, CEO of Cape Town Tourism, expressed pride in the recognition, stating, “This accolade reflects the passion and innovation of our chefs and food artisans. Cape Town isn’t just a destination – it’s a food lover’s dream.”
Alderman James Vos, Cape Town’s Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Growth, also celebrated the achievement, calling the city a “cuisine capital” where every dish showcases the love and appreciation for its diverse cultures.
The Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards are renowned for celebrating excellence in travel and tourism, with millions of readers voting on their favorite destinations. Cape Town’s top ranking affirms its place as a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts around the world.
The top 10 cities
The rankings for the top food cities in the world are:
- Cape Town, South Africa – Score 95.65
- Milan, Italy – Score 95.20
- Valencia, Spain – Score 95.00
- Tokyo, Japan – Score 94.78
- Porto, Portugal – Score 94.48
- Hong Kong, China – Score 93.94
- Bangkok, Thailand – Score 93.71
- Rome, Italy – Score 93.33
- Singapore – Score 92.90
- Sydney, Australia – Score 92.50
