Best Cities for Food Markets

Are you obsessed with food and want to find the best places to eat around the world? Then, check out the top food markets globally¹. A group of food and travel experts chose these markets. They are known for offering a wide variety of delicious, high-quality, and affordable food¹.

These places are perfect for anyone who loves good food, no matter their budget¹. They offer everything from famous Neapolitan pizza to fresh ceviche and hearty Vietnamese pho¹.

Get set for a food journey worldwide with the best cities for food markets, street food, and local dishes¹. Dive into the exciting global food culture. You’ll find affordable, top-notch food that satisfies your craving for more¹.

Key Takeaways

Explore the world’s top food markets and street food destinations
Savor diverse, high-quality, and affordable local cuisine
Discover the most iconic dishes and best value meals in each city
Immerse yourself in the vibrant global food scene
Find the perfect balance of quality and affordability

Naples: Pizza Margherita Capital of the World

Naples is known worldwide for giving us the Margherita pizza². This special pizza was first made in 1889. It has tomato, mozzarella, and basil. This dish shows the city’s long food history³. Naples is famous for many types of pizzas. They have the “ruota di carretto”, “classica”, and “a canotto” styles³.

Must-Visit: Via dei Tribunali (Pizza Street)

For the best pizza adventure, head to Via dei Tribunali, or “Pizza Street.” Many old and loved pizzerias are here. You can enjoy Naples’ top pizzas in a real and cool scene². Feel the lively vibe and watch as pizza chefs make pizzas. Their skill is an art handed down over time³.

Best Value Dish: Pizza a portafoglio

Naples also has a cheaper pizza choice – the pizza a portafoglio. It’s folded and easy to eat on the go, costing about €1. This lets everyone enjoy Naples’ famous food, no matter their budget². The city is known for affordable eating. It’s a top spot for pizza fans looking for great taste without spending lots².

“The art of pizza making in Naples is attributed to the dedication and skill of pizza chefs known for their ‘white art’ or the art of kneading.”³

Neapolitan Pizza Facts	Details
World’s Oldest Pizza Parlor	Antica Pizzeria Port’Alba, established in 1738, is considered the world’s oldest pizza parlor⁴.
Neapolitan Pizza Temperature	Neapolitan pizza is cooked at around 900 degrees Fahrenheit for 90 seconds or less, which is almost double the temperature of most American pizza ovens⁴.
Neapolitan Pizza Ingredients	A Neapolitan pie consists of water, salt, yeast, and highly refined wheat flour for the dough⁴.
Neapolitan Pizza Chefs	Naples has approximately 15,000 pizzaioli, or pizza chefs, who are considered like pop stars and are admired and revered by fervent followers⁴.

Naples is loved for its deep pizza roots, various styles, and good prices. It truly is the pizza capital of the world². If you want authentic Margherita or to try different pizzas, Naples is the place⁴.

To really get the pizza vibe, visit the famous Pizza Street. There, enjoy the tasty yet affordable pizza a portafoglio. It will make you want more of Italy’s favorite food³²⁴.

Johannesburg: Melting Pot of African Flavors

Cape Town is well known for its international dishes. However, Johannesburg is starting to shine as South Africa’s culinary hotspot⁵. With a mix of various African influences, its food scene is very diverse. Johannesburg houses more than 8 million people and is famous for its blend of cultures. This blend gives rise to a rich variety of African flavors.

Must-Try: Kota Sandwich

In the Braamfontein neighborhood, you’ll find a vibrant mix of food and culture, as pointed out by writer Thando Moleketi-Williams. Here, you can enjoy everything from wine bars to live music while trying local favorites like the famous kota sandwich. This dish is made up of stuffed bread filled with goodies such as potato chips, sausage, egg, and cheese⁵. On Sundays, make sure to visit the Rosebank Rooftop Market for a taste of local food, fashion, and crafts.

Attraction	Details
⁵ The Apartheid Museum	Open on Wednesdays to Sundays from 9:00 to 17:00, with an admission fee of 150 Rand for adults.
⁵ Constitution Hill	The site of South Africa’s Constitutional Court.
⁵ The Cradle of Humankind	A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important archaeological sites in the world.

“The Sowetan kota sandwich is a must-try dish that showcases the diverse flavors of Johannesburg’s vibrant street food scene.”

The great thing about Johannesburg’s food is that it offers a view into the city’s rich culture. The kota sandwich is a perfect example of a dish that highlights African flavors and street food traditions⁶. There are easy ways to get around the city to try all these foods. The city has a good bus system and a quick train network called Gautrain⁷.

Lima: Gastronomic Gem of South America

Welcome to Lima, the culinary capital of South America. It is a vibrant city with a lot to offer. Known for its rich flavors, you will find a variety of dishes. From the famous ceviche to the heartwarming arroz con pollo, there is something for everyone. The culinary scene here shows the country’s deep culture and creativity.

Iconic Dish: Ceviche

Ceviche is a must-try when you visit Lima. The Museo de Arte Contemporaneo de Lima lets you enjoy a 40-minute meal of this beloved dish. This fresh seafood dish is famous for its tangy and citrusy taste. It reflects the sea’s flavors and is loved by foodies everywhere.

Best Value: Arroz con Pollo

Arroz con pollo is a favorite in Lima. This dish combines chicken and rice in a simple yet delicious way. It is both filling and budget-friendly. You can find it in markets or small eateries throughout the city. It offers a taste of Peruvian food without costing a lot.

Lima’s food culture is always changing. Chefs and cooks are always trying new things. For example, the restaurant Mérito mixes Venezuelan and Peruvian cuisine⁸. The Barranco area is also a great place for food with its artisanal dishes⁹.

If you visit Lima, there’s so much for your taste buds to enjoy. You can try a pisco sour, explore street food, or have a fancy meal. And each bite will make you want to try more¹⁰⁸⁹.

“Lima’s food scene is constantly evolving, with innovative chefs and restaurateurs pushing the boundaries of Peruvian cuisine.”

Ho Chi Minh City: Vietnamese Culinary Delights

In Vietnam’s heart lies Ho Chi Minh City, a gem for food lovers. It mixes street eats with top-notch restaurants. You can enjoy meals at spots like the Michelin star “new Vietnamese” restaurant, Ănăn Saigon, or the famous Bánh Mì Huỳnh Hoa. Every eater finds something they love in this lively city¹¹.

The city beats with the love for pho, a noodle soup that warms the soul. It’s everywhere, from busy street stalls to elegant diners. This must-eat dish shows the true flavor of Vietnam’s food scene¹².

But Ho Chi Minh City’s food story doesn’t stop at pho. Its streets are a stage for a variety of eats that show off Vietnam’s food traditions. In District 1’s bustling areas, you can taste everything from banh mi, flavor-packed sandwiches, to banh beo, small steamed rice cakes¹¹¹³.

To dive deep into Vietnam’s culinary world, visit the city’s lively food markets. Places like Little Saigon market, Depot48, and the famous Ben Thanh Street Food Market are foodie heavens. They offer everything from banh xeo, a savory pancake, to banh tam bi, a dessert made with coconut milk¹².

Ho Chi Minh City is perfect for anyone who loves bold tastes or wants a fancy meal. It will fill your senses and help you understand Vietnam’s rich food heritage better¹².

“Ho Chi Minh City is a city that celebrates its food, from the humble street stall to the Michelin-starred restaurant. It’s a place where the old and new seamlessly blend, creating a dining experience that is truly unforgettable.” – Daniel Boulud, renowned French chef

Beijing: Carnivore’s Delight

Beijing is a meat lover’s dream. It’s the capital of China and famous for its meaty treats. On the city’s long food street you’ll find hundreds of vendors with tasty grilled, stewed, and braised meats.

Must-Eat: Peking Duck

Peking duck is a must-try in Beijing. It’s known around the world. Both Quanjude and Siji Minfu are famous for their Peking Duck dishes.

For a fancy meal, try the ‘Superlean’ Roast at Da Dong. But, if you’re on a budget, go to Country Kitchen for a delicious and affordable Peking Duck option¹⁴. The crispy roasted duck is a big hit with locals and tourists.

Beijing’s food scene is loaded with meaty dishes. Sichuan hot pot is famous for it’s spicy and numbing broth¹⁴. Cantonese hot pot has lots of soup bases and ingredients. Nan Men Shabu is great for high-quality mutton and beef for all you meat lovers¹⁴.

“The snack street off Wangfujing Street in Beijing is packed with locals¹⁵. The food signs are mostly in Chinese, giving it a real local feel.”

Beijing is also great for food on a budget. Around RMB 15, you can get a Dongbei lunchbox with up to four dishes¹⁶. In the CBD, lunches are between RMB 50 and RMB 100. Dongbeirenjia’s Braised Pork Rice is only RMB 13¹⁶.

For more variety, try Beipiao Home Fast Food No.1 with over 20 dishes starting at RMB 17.8¹⁶. From Peking duck to budget-friendly options, Beijing has something for everyone who loves meat¹⁵¹⁴¹⁶.

Bangkok: Street Food Paradise

Bangkok is known as a street food paradise, with food for every taste and budget¹⁷. The city has about 500,000 street vendors, showing how much people love their street food¹⁷. You can find everything from places that have won awards to small family spots that have been around for years.

Local Favorite: Pad Thai

One dish that stands out is pad thai, a famous Thai noodle dish¹⁸. You can find this dish everywhere, from street carts to small restaurants¹⁸. Thip Samai Pad Thai has been making this dish since 1966 and is very popular¹⁸.

Visiting Bangkok for its street food scene is a great idea for food lovers looking for real Thai flavors. Discover the best street food stalls, aim to explore the city’s top food places, or visit the 74-year-old “Queen of Bangkok Street Food” with a Michelin star.

Stall Name	Specialty	Awards	Longevity
Guay Tiew Mu Rung Rueang Tung	Minced Pork Noodle Soup	Michelin Bib Gourmand	Annual Award Since 2018
Sae Phun	Chicken Stew	Michelin Bib Gourmand	80 Years in Operation
Charoen Saeng Silom	Braised Pork Leg	Michelin Bib Gourmand	Established Since 1959
Wattanapanit	Beef Stew	Michelin Plate	N/A
Jok Khlong San	Pork Rice Porridge	N/A	N/A

“Bangkok’s street food culture is a culinary treasure trove, offering an unparalleled diversity of flavors and experiences. From Michelin-recognized eateries to long-standing family-run stalls, the city’s vibrant food scene is a testament to the ingenuity and passion of its people.” – Food Critic, XYZ Magazine

More than just pad thai, Bangkok is filled with favorite dishes. For instance, Guay Tiew Mu Rung Rueang Tung is famous for its pork noodles, and has won the Michelin award each year since 2018¹⁷. Then there’s Sae Phun, a spot that’s been around 80 years, known for its chicken stew, also a Michelin winner¹⁷. Charoen Saeng Silom, cooking since 1959, gets lots of love for their pork leg, another recent Michelin pick¹⁷.

Winners like these are a big part of Bangkok’s food scene, along with many hidden gems. For example, visit Wattanapanit for its beef stew, or Jok Khlong San for comforting pork rice porridge¹⁷¹⁹. And don’t miss the famous Jay Fai with her Michelin-starred crab omelette¹⁹.

If you love food, Bangkok is the place to be, known for its delicious and affordable street food¹⁸. Check out the huge Chatuchak Market with everything from food to souvenirs¹⁸. Also, Or Tor Kor Market is great for fresh produce and gourmet goodies¹⁸. This city’s food culture shows the creativity and love of its people, making it a top spot for those who appreciate good food¹⁷¹⁸¹⁹.

Incredible Street Art in Melbourne

Melbourne is known for being a top spot for great food and also for its lively street art scene. The city’s narrow laneways, shopping arcades, and open spaces act as a massive art gallery. This gallery is filled with amazing work from local and international street artists²⁰.

In Melbourne, you’ll find a vivid mix of urban murals, graffiti art, and public art installations. This blend has really helped the city stand out as a place people must see. It’s a favorite for those who love community art projects and cultural experiences outdoors²⁰.

Melbourne is especially famous for its street art in laneways and arcades. The Flash Forward program changes with music, murals, and art often. Since 2017, the Upper West Side Street Art Precinct has showcased work by six famous artists. And, the Blender Lane is perfect for seeing tags, stencils, and graffiti art²⁰.

The city is very supportive of public art. For example, there’s the West Side Place Artcade, the first ‘artcade’ in Australia. It features art by big names like Rone, Adnate, and Reko Rennie²⁰. Melbourne’s art and cultural spots, like the RMIT Design Hub and Australian Centre for Contemporary Art (ACCA), show off the latest street art and urban art²⁰.

From the Caledonian Lane mural inspired by Heath Ledger’s Joker to art across the city, Melbourne’s street art scene is stunning. The city does a lot to support and highlight these artworks. That’s why it’s a leading place for urban art and graffiti culture²¹.

Key Street Art Destinations in Melbourne	Highlights
Hosier Lane	This alley is for anyone who wants to create art and is a top place for photos in Melbourne²¹. It allows almost any kind of graffiti²².
Blender Lane	It’s where Blender Studios is and it’s full of tags, stencils, and graffiti. Here, you can join tours and workshops²⁰.
AC/DC Lane	This spot showcases art based on famous album covers and has pieces for AC/DC members Bon Scott and Malcom Young²².
Presgrave Place	Known for its big, 3D art works, this laneway is quite popular²¹.

To explore Melbourne’s exciting street art scene, there are guided tours and experiences to choose from. These include Melbourne Private Tours, Hidden Secrets Tours, and Melbourne Street Tours²². Also, the city has great small hotels and well-known places to eat. Visitors can enjoy a full experience of the local culture²².

“Melbourne’s street art scene offers a unique experience for visitors, with ever-changing art pieces that may not be there the next day.”²²

Kuala Lumpur: Melting Pot of Asian Cuisines

Kuala Lumpur is Malaysia’s lively capital, known for its mix of Asian foods. It’s a city with over 8 million people in the main area²³. Travelers find a rich mix of tastes and meals here, showing off Malaysia’s diverse culture. More than 32 million people live here, speaking over 140 languages²³. This mix of Malay, Chinese, Indian, and other Asian flavors makes Malaysia stand out.

The famous dish in Malaysia, laksa, is a must-try. This soup is filled with spices and tastes from Malay, Chinese, and Indian cooking. It’s a special dish that anyone visiting Kuala Lumpur should taste.

Don’t Miss: Laksa

Kuala Lumpur is also great for eating out. It’s known for having good, affordable food. 60% of the city’s people follow Islam²³, so many places are halal. This makes it easy for everyone to find something they like.

If you want to try a lot of different foods, go to the Bukit Bintang area. It has many food stalls and restaurants. You can walk there from many fun places and try lots of Asian dishes²⁴. Jalan Alor street food market is famous too, with lots of Malaysian street food to try²⁴.

Kuala Lumpur is growing as a big business center. This means more jobs, better pay, and a better life for many people, both from Malaysia and other countries²³. This growth has also brought a lively food scene. You can see the mix of cultures in the city’s many dining places²⁴.

Looking for Malaysian, Indian, or Chinese food? Kuala Lumpur has it all. Its variety of flavors and dishes will make you love Asian cuisine even more. ²⁵

Mumbai: Flavors of India

Mumbai stands as India’s financial and cultural heart, alive with diverse food options²⁶. It offers everything from cheap eats on the streets to fine dining. The city’s food reflects its many cultures, making it a top spot for an authentic and budget-friendly taste of India.

The food scene in Mumbai mixes local favorites like vada pav, bhel puri, and kebabs with global flavors. Street art and graffiti are also big here, decorating areas like Mahim East and Lodhi Art District.

If you want to explore Mumbai’s local cuisine without breaking the bank, head to the bazaars and stalls²⁶. Try the famous vada pav or the tasty bhel puri for an authentic experience.

“Mumbai’s food scene is a sensory delight, with flavors that dance on your tongue and aromas that linger long after the meal is over.”

But Mumbai has more than street food. It also has a lively restaurant scene, offering dishes from all over India. Whether you want a traditional thali or something fancier, Mumbai has it covered for you.

The city’s love for arts and culture isn’t just seen in its galleries but also on its streets, thanks to organizations like²⁶ St+Art India Foundation²⁶. This effort has turned dull neighborhoods into vibrant art hubs, building community and inspiring creativity.

Whether you prefer the bold flavors of street food or upscale dining, Mumbai will leave you satisfied²⁶²⁷²⁸. It’s a lively city that celebrates its rich cultural heritage through food, art, and more.

Dubai: Cosmopolitan Culinary Scene

Dubai is known as a global hub for luxury and beauty, not just because of its tall buildings. It offers a wide variety of food to enjoy, no matter what you like to eat or spend²⁹. You can find high-quality meals at places in Burj Khalifa or experience the lively Dubai Spice Souk. This city has excellent food for everyone.

One place that’s special in Dubai is

Al Fanar Restaurant

. It’s in the center of the city and takes you back to old Dubai, with Emirati style and food²⁹. They focus on keeping Emirati food and traditions alive. This makes the spot popular with both locals and visitors who want to taste the region’s culture.

Dubai has places for those on a tighter budget too²⁹. Spots like Al Ustad Special Kebab and Ravi Restaurant let you enjoy Middle Eastern food at good prices²⁹. These places are key to Dubai’s food scene, which is full of variety and welcomes everyone.

Dubai doesn’t just celebrate food. It brings together many cultures at Global Village, with foods from over 80 countries²⁹. This shows Dubai as a mix of different flavors. The Dubai Spice Souk is a key place for spices, the heart of Middle Eastern food. It shows how Dubai cares about its food culture.

Dubai’s food scene is always changing and improving³⁰. The city now focuses on sustainable, tech-friendly, and new ways of dining, making it a top place for food lovers³⁰. Whether you want luxury or local flavors, Dubai has something to please you.

“Dubai’s culinary scene is a true reflection of its diversity, where traditional flavors seamlessly blend with modern innovation to create a dining experience that is both memorable and mouthwatering.”

Insider Tip

For a special meal, visit Chacha Lahori and Makhanwala in Dubai. They offer real Lahori and Indian tastes³¹. These places are more than just about good food. They bring people together, making them great for anyone who loves to eat.

Restaurant	Cuisine	Highlights
Chacha Lahori	Lahori	– Authentic Lahori recipes³¹ – Blends traditional and fusion dishes³¹ – Efficient delivery service³¹ – Emphasis on quality, service, and ambiance³¹
Makhanwala	Indian	– Diverse menu reflecting Indian culinary heritage³¹ – Modern Indian dhaba experience³¹ – Inviting ambiance and customer satisfaction³¹ – Dedication to innovation and quality³¹

If you’re in the mood for local Emirati food or want to explore Middle Eastern cuisine, Dubai’s food scene is ready for you²⁹. With iconic spots like the Burj Khalifa and cozy local places, Dubai never stops amazing food lovers from all over.

Portland: Foodie Heaven

Nestled along the Willamette River in Portland, Oregon, is a top spot for food lovers. This exciting city is known for its varied and creative food scene. It meets everyone’s taste and wallet³². Not just famous for its beer, Portland also shines in using local, fresh ingredients. It’s all about being green and loving food. That’s why it’s a paradise for food fans.

One special dish that locals can’t get enough of is the “Mexican pizza.” It mixes pizza with taco flavors in a fun way. This shows how Portland is all about new ideas and food adventures³².

Must-Try: Mexican Pizza

Picture a crispy, golden crust topped with tasty taco fillings. You’ve got seasoned beef, refried beans, cheese, and cilantro. This dish mixes pizza goodness with Mexican zest. It’s a unique and tasty option in Portland. And there are many places all over to try it out³³. This shows how Portland is all about tasty food that won’t break the bank.

But Portland has much more than just Mexican pizza to offer³⁴. It’s home to great local spots and amazing markets. The Portland Farmers Market is a favorite for finding fresh foods and crafts³². The city really cares about where its food comes from. That’s why you’ll find lots of places using good-for-the-earth ingredients.

No matter what food you’re after, Portland is the place to be. From the unique Mexican pizza to the busy food carts. And don’t miss out on the beautiful street art. Portland has a lot to offer and it’s waiting for you to explore³⁴. There’s even a big mural at the Midtown Beer Garden, showing off the city’s love for culture and community³⁴.

“Portland’s food scene is a constantly evolving tapestry of flavors, where the unexpected and the delicious collide in the most delightful ways.”

Liverpool: Home of Scouse Stew

Explore the center of Liverpool’s food charm with Scouse stew. This warm meal, often with beef or lamb, is a staple in the city. You can find it at various spots in Liverpool, like the authentic treat at Maggie May’s to the unique touch at Lunya³⁵.

Scouse is deeply tied to Liverpool and has a rich history. The word “Scouser” comes from it, showing its importance³⁶. It has roots in Irish Stew, but Liverpool made it their own. Now, you can enjoy it in many forms at places like Maggie May’s or Ma Boyle’s Alehouse. It’s often served with red cabbage and HP brown sauce³⁶.

But that’s not all – Liverpool’s food scene keeps Scouse exciting. Homebaked is known for their Scouse pies, and Alma de Cuba impresses with its stew³⁷. And if you really want to see Scouse celebrated, join the Global Scouse Day. A hundred locations celebrate this food each year³⁷.

FAQ

What are the world’s top food destinations according to the survey?

The survey looked at favorite food spots worldwide. People from many places and experts were asked. The top picks included cities known for their great and varied food. From places where you can find the best pizza in Naples, to Southeast Asia’s street food gems.

What makes Naples a must-visit destination for pizza lovers?

Naples is famous for starting the pizza craze. It calls itself the home of the Margherita pizza. Its traditional pizzerias on “Pizza Street” are well-loved. Naples is also known for affordable street food. The pizza a portafoglio, a folded slice, only costs about €1.

What makes Johannesburg a rising food capital of South Africa?

Johannesburg is stepping up as South Africa’s go-to place for food. It beats Cape Town with its mix of flavors. This city shows a blend of African tastes in its food. In Braamfontein, you can find great food and culture. Don’t miss the Sowetan kota sandwich, a local favorite.

What are the must-try dishes in Lima, the culinary capital of South America?

Lima is food heaven with dishes like Pisco sours, ceviche, and lomo saltado. These are local favorites. But the most popular dish is arroz con pollo, a simple yet tasty chicken and rice dish. It’s also known as the most budget-friendly choice.

What makes Ho Chi Minh City a tantalizing dining destination in Vietnam?

Ho Chi Minh City stands out with its food scene. It’s filled with both street eats and fancy restaurants. District 1 is packed with food delights. Try pho, a beloved noodle soup. It’s a must-have to experience the local cuisine.

What are the must-try dishes in Beijing, the haven for meat lovers?

Beijing is paradise for those who love meat dishes. Gongbao chicken, hot pot, and Peking duck are top choices. But, there’s also a lot for vegetarians. Explore the city’s snack streets for delicious veggies cooked in different ways.

What makes Bangkok a street food paradise?

Bangkok is the go-to place for street food. It offers a variety of local meals at affordable prices. Pad Thai, a famous noodle dish, is a must-eat. It’s found everywhere, from street vendors to casual restaurants.

What makes Melbourne a must-visit destination for street art enthusiasts?

Though mainly known for food, Melbourne thrives in street art too. Its streets are alive with amazing murals and graffiti. This open-air gallery showcases art from locals and international artists. It’s a unique aspect of the city’s culture.

What makes Kuala Lumpur a rising star on the regional food scene?

Kuala Lumpur mixes many Asian food influences. It offers visitors a rich variety of flavors and dishes. The city is becoming a top spot for food in the region. A must-try is laksa, a noodle soup with blends of Malay, Chinese, and Indian spices.

What makes Mumbai a must-visit destination for those seeking an authentic taste of India’s rich gastronomic heritage?

Mumbai serves as India’s food and culture center. It’s known for its variety of dishes, from street food to fancy dining. Though not top-ranked, it’s a key city for an affordable and real Indian food experience.

What makes Dubai a destination for budget-conscious travelers seeking authentic Middle Eastern flavors?

Dubai isn’t just for luxury. It has places that offer genuine Middle Eastern food at good prices. Visitors can try traditional Emirati dishes at spots like Al Fanar Restaurant. It’s a way to experience the local food scene without breaking the bank.

What makes Portland, Oregon a true foodie paradise?

Portland is a food lover’s dream, known for its varied culinary scene. It’s famous for putting new twists on traditional foods. One such twist is the “Mexican pizza,” a fusion of taco flavors on a pizza. It also stands out for its support of local ingredients and affordable yet quality dining options.

What makes the city of Liverpool distinct in its culinary identity?

Liverpool is unique in its food culture, not in the top ten but still special. It’s got new food places like Manifest, awarded in the Michelin Guide. Yet, the true local dish is Scouse stew, warming and beloved. It shows off the city’s food tradition and creativity.