Explore these eight notable culinary hotspots expected to captivate gastronomes in 2025:
Get ready for a culinary adventure as we explore the world's most exciting food destinations in 2025. According to Traveller magazine's rankings, the top food cities to visit include San Miguel de Allende and Oaxaca in Mexico, Tokyo in Japan, and several Italian cities such as Florence, Rome, and Siena.
San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, took the top spot worldwide, while Florence was named Europe's top city for food and culture, ranking 11th overall globally. The overall top 10 globally featured mostly cities in Latin America and Asia, highlighting food, culture, and historic charm.
Italian cities stood out for their timeless beauty and culinary offerings, with Florence celebrated for its rustic, family-run restaurants and world-class art and architecture. Portland was also highlighted by Travel & Leisure as one of the best food cities in the U.S., recommended for visitors with 11 venues to try.
The rankings are based on nearly 180,000 reader votes and assessed on food, culture, friendliness, shopping, landmarks, and value.
Mexico City's Culinary Scene
Mexico City is also set to make waves in the culinary world, with Taquería El Califa de León expected to receive a Michelin Guide star in 2025. This humble spot is known for its exceptional Gaonera taco filled with thinly sliced beef filet and a squeeze of lime.
Europe's Gastronomic Destinations
Sicily, Italy, has been crowned the European Region of Gastronomy 2025, lauded for its sustainable approach to agriculture and commitment to protecting traditional foods. Sicily is hosting a year-long gastronomic celebration in 2025, with various food-related events taking place throughout the year.
Catalonia, Spain, will take on the title of World Region of Gastronomy in 2025, while Sicily's iconic dishes include Pasta alla norma, caponata, cannolo, and pasta con le sarde.
Africa's Best Culinary City
Cape Town, South Africa, won the title Africa's Best Culinary City at this year's World Culinary Awards. The city's restaurants, such as Salon, awarded Africa's Best New Restaurant, and La Colombe, one of three new entries on the World's Best 50 Restaurants list, contribute to its vibrant food scene.
Cumbria's Food Experiences
Across the pond, Cumbria, UK, is known for its coiled Cumberland sausage, breweries, distilleries, exceptional cheese, and high-quality produce. In 2025, new travel itineraries launch across Cumbria, showcasing its excellent food experiences, farm-to-fork dining, and Michelin-starred restaurants. These itineraries include local walks and sustainable travel options, with tips on public transport connections and information about bike and e-bike rental.
A Culinary Renaissance in Croatia
Croatia is experiencing a culinary renaissance, with chefs like Mario Mandaric and Ivana Urem Marohnic revitalizing traditional dishes and opening their own restaurants. Agli Amici in Rovinj became the first restaurant in the country to receive two Michelin stars.
Asia's Food Capitals
Asia's food capitals, such as Tokyo, also continue to impress. The city is renowned for its sushi, ramen, and street food, and in 2024, Michelin launched its Seoul and Busan Guide, recognizing the city's 'gourmet culture'. Busan, South Korea, has a vibrant street food scene and is also seeing a rise in its dining scene with chefs like Palate owner and chef Kim Jae-hoon.
Alabama's Trailblazing Year
Lastly, 2025 is the Year of Alabama Trails, with a focus on food in several new routes created by Alabama's tourist office. While specific food-related information about Alabama was not provided, it's worth noting that the state is home to historical landmarks like Chris' Hotdogs, located on the landmark Dexter Avenue, significant for its historical connections to Martin Luther King Jr and Rosa Parks.
Whether you're a foodie or just looking for a unique cultural experience, these top food cities offer something for everyone. So, pack your bags and get ready for a delicious journey!
- Travelers seeking a melding of culture, history, and exceptional food should consider visiting San Miguel de Allende in Mexico, having been ranked as the top food city worldwide in 2025.
- Europe's culinary enthusiasts should look forward to Sicily, Italy, crowned the European Region of Gastronomy 2025, promising a year-long gastronomic celebration with various food-related events.
- For a unique travel experience blending historical landmarks with vibrant food culture, one may consider exploring Cumbria, UK, situated across the pond, with its renowned Cumberland sausage, breweries, distilleries, cheese, and farm-to-fork dining.
