Released on June 8, this year’s rankings were compiled through a survey of 24,000 residents in 150 cities, who assessed local food quality, affordability, and culture. An international team of food editors and experts then evaluated the rankings.
Lima (Peru) topped this year’s global rankings, followed by Bangkok (Thailand), Mexico City (Mexico), London (U.K.), and Barcelona (Spain).
The British lifestyle magazine notes that 2026 marks the moment HCMC’s fine-dining scene arrived, moving past its “emerging” status.
In April, CieL, a 15-seat dining concept owned by chef Le Viet Hong, was named the world’s third-best restaurant by Food & Wine. This came after the restaurant earned a Michelin star just seven months after opening.
Chef Le Viet Hong in the kitchen at CieL restaurant. Photo courtesy of CieL |
Tales by Chapter, Vietnam’s first zero-waste, plant-based fine dining restaurant, made it to Condé Nast’s best new restaurants list days later and secured a Michelin Green Star on June 4.
According to Time Outthe city is also elevating staples, seen in the 12-course tasting menu at Pot Au Pho 2.0, but one can still enjoy a bowl of pho at sidewalk stalls for a fraction of the price.
Overall, the city earned a 70% approval rating from experts, while 75% of locals rated the food scene as “good” or “amazing”.
Street food remains the top asset (63% approval), followed by a coffee culture (61%).
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A banh mi cabinet arranged with ingredients and baguettes at HCMC Banh Mi Festival. Photo by Read/Tran Quynh |
Time Out’s 20 best cities for food in 2026:
1. Lima, Peru
2. Bangkok, Thailand
3. Mexico City, Mexico
4. London, United Kingdom
5. Barcelona, Spain
6. Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
7. Melbourne, Australia
8. Beijing, China
9. Athens, Greece
10. Lisbon, Portugal
11. Cape Town, South Africa
12. Osaka, Japan
13. Bangalore, India
14. Naples, Italy
15. New York City, USA
16. Hong Kong
17. Buenos Aires, Argentina
18. Marseille, France
19. Copenhagen, Denmark
20. Medellin, Colombia
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