The top 16 food capitals of the world

In Tokyo, culinary excellence reaches new heights with an astounding 182 Michelin-starred restaurants, showcasing the city's unwavering commitment to gastronomic perfection. Amidst the towering skyscrapers and bustling streets, traditional Japanese food reigns supreme, offering a blend of flavours and textures that captivate the senses. Indulge in sushi crafted with precision, savour the delicate flavours of tempura, or immerse yourself in the rich umami of a steaming bowl of ramen. However, ask any local for the national dish and they are guaranteed to say curry rice – or karé raisu – a dish that was brought over to Japan from India and Britain. 

Trending food spots in Tokyo:

• Sukiyabashi Jiro: This three Michelin-starred restaurant is famed around the world for its omakase menu, run by one of the best sushi chefs in the world. 
• Ginza Hachigou: One of three Michelin-starred ramen restaurants, the broth on this traditional Japanese dish has been described as liquid gold. 
• Shinagawa: This is a shopping hotspot in Japan, lined with excellent street food so you can keep your appetite at bay as you browse for souvenirs. 
• Robot Restaurant: It may be a novelty dining destination, but one that has to be experienced when in Japan. 

The city of Seoul is the beating heart of South Korea, where you can journey into a realm of bold flavours and rich traditions. With a burgeoning food scene, Seoul boasts an impressive array of dining establishments, including 33 Michelin-starred restaurants, each offering a unique interpretation of Korean cuisine. From sizzling street food stalls serving up spicy tteokbokki and crispy fried chicken to elegant hanjeongsik dining experiences (a traditional full course meal sometimes featuring up to 30 dishes!) showcasing an array of banchan – also known as side dishes – South Korea offers food experiences in abundance. 

Trending food spots in Seoul:

• Kani Lab: The first of its kind in South Korea. Kani Lab is an innovative culinary experience that engages the senses with the use of media art and exceptional ingredients – the star of the show being the crab. 
• Saladaeng Temple: Offering a Thai and western fusion experience, this restaurant offers dining in the most beautiful setting which you can reach via boat or waterfall walkway. 
• Gwangjang Market: The first and biggest traditional market in South Korea where you can get an array of local dishes including kimchi, mung-bean pancakes, cold noodle soup and Korean dumplings. 
• Kyochon Chicken: Delicious fried chicken that's arguably the most famous in Seoul. 

It may be a familiar stomping ground for most of you, but it goes without saying that our capital is a must visit for some of the world’s best food. And while fish and chips, pie, mash and liquor and roast dinners may be at the helm of British cuisine, London extends as a cultural melting pot where chefs from across the world have flooded to share their food stories. In between the art lined streets and exceptional food markets lie 80 Michelin-starred restaurants just calling out for foodies to try, often head up by famous celebrity chefs. 

Trending food spots in London:

• Savoy Grill: No trip to London is complete without a visit to The Savoy, and Savoy Grill by Gordon Ramsay is an icon. Showcasing the best of British produce, this fine dining experience is a must, especially to try Gordon’s famous beef wellington. 
• Sketch: It wouldn’t be British if you didn’t tuck into a delightful afternoon tea, and the experience at Sketch is definitely one for your social media feed. 
• TĪNG Lounge and Restaurant: Located within The Shard, this restaurant takes contemporary British dishes and gives them an Asian twist. Enjoy with 360-degree views of London. 
• Borough Market: Awaken your senses with smells that transport you from country to continent. The street food market here showcases more than 100 stalls selling food and drink from around the globe. 

In the enchanting streets of Italy's capital, Rome invites visitors on a culinary odyssey through its rich tapestry of tradition and flavour. The Italians are known for their dedicated passion to their gastronomic roots, where recipes have been passed down from Nonnas through the generations, still followed to the letter to this day. This includes the four classic Roman pastas: cacio e pepe, carbonara, amatriciana and alla gricia. Other delicious delicacies to try are the popular snack suppli: balls of fried rice often stuffed with cheese and tomato sauce. And, let's not forget heavenly gelato which is available by the bucket load from the many gelaterias that line the streets. 

Trending food spots in Rome:

• La Pergola: Located in the magnificent Rome Cavalieri, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel this acclaimed restaurant is the only one in the city to boast three Michelin stars. 
• Osteria da Fortunata: This viral restaurant can be seen all over the internet as you watch chefs hand roll delicious pasta. We absolutely recommend the carbonara here. 
• La Pace Del Palato: For something more traditional, delight in a small menu serving Italian dishes in an intimate venue. A place where your server and chef will get to know you by name and welcome you to dinner as family. 
• Frigidarium: A popular gelato shop famous for its abundance of flavours, all of which you can have dipped in hot melted chocolate. 

With the smell of freshly baked baguettes and flaky pastries in the air, you know you’ve arrived in Paris. A European epicentre for all things food, the City of Lights really does know what it’s doing. The traditional cuisine of France is hearty and indulgent, ranging from buttery, garlicky escargots, perfectly cooked steak and fries, coq au vin and beef bourguignon, of course washed down with some of the finest wines in the world. The classic French cooking style has evolved over the years and make up almost all of the 129 Michelin-starred restaurants on offer in the city. Plan your French trip today with Winged Boots. 

Trending food spots in Paris: 

• Le Cinq: This three Michelin starred restaurant defines gastronomic excellence with French modern cuisine. It’s located in the opulent Four Seasons Hotel George V, Paris, the perfect place for a romantic weekend away. 
• Le Relais de l’Entrecôte: A Parisian bistro with no menu to order from. The only items offered are a walnut salad appetiser followed by tender sirloin steak served with its famous sauce and thin-cut French fries. There are also no reservations, so get there early. 
• Du Pain et des Idées: An award-winning boulangerie for you to get your pastry fix. 
• Angelina: Thick hot chocolate self-poured into teacups with a scoop of fresh whipped cream and a croissant to dunk – does it get any better?

In the bustling streets of Bangkok, the pulse of the city beats to the rhythm of vibrant markets and sizzling woks, unfolding a symphony of flavours and spices. From the fiery delights of tom yum goong to the aromatic embrace of green curry, each dish tells a story steeped in tradition. The city's food stalls offer a kaleidoscope of dishes, from crispy pad thai to fragrant mango sticky rice. Amidst the markets and lively alleys, Bangkok's food scene is a testament to the city's unwavering passion for culinary excellence and innovation, making it a paradise for food lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Trending food spots in Bangkok:

• Le Du: Voted The Best Restaurant in Asia 2023 and boasting a Michelin star, Le Du is a must visit in Bangkok. The name comes from a Thai word “ฤดู”, a synonym for “season” which reflects the culinary creations made from seasonal produce. 
• Pang Cha: For those with a sweet tooth, also on the Michelin Guide this café serves an array of spectacular looking desserts.
• Jeh O Chula: One of the many Michelin-starred street food stalls, the instant mama noodles are a big hit here. 
• Chinatown: Not a restaurant but an area where you can scout out an array of dishes from street food snacks to full meals at different price points.

The city of Kuala Lumpur is a dynamic metropolis in the heart of Malaysia and impresses on all levels of the food scene. Try local street food such as nasi lemak, fragrant coconut rice served with spicy sambal, crunchy anchovies, and a variety of accompaniments. Sample succulent satay skewers, grilled to perfection and served with a rich peanut sauce, or savour the complex flavours of rendang, a slow-cooked meat dish infused with aromatic spices. And, thanks to the abundance of luxury hotel offerings, you won’t be short of fine dining establishments as well.

Trending food spots in Kuala Lumpur:

• Dewakan: With views of the Petronas Towers, this Michelin starred dining option celebrates the best of Malaysian cuisine in a coveted location. 
• Dining in the Dark: Embark on a sensory journey as you dine in complete darkness and rely on your other senses to guide you through the menu.
• Fuego at Troika Sky Dining: The perfect spot for sunset cocktails, this restaurant serves tapas and grilled meats, the lamb ribs being a firm favourite.
• Lot 10 Hutong Food Court: On the lower ground of the Lot 10 shopping centre, this food court offers the most authentic Malaysian cuisine. 

Set along the shores of Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula, Cabo San Lucas emerges as a hidden gem within the global food scene. Beyond its beaches lies a culinary landscape brimming with flavour, showcasing traditional dishes reflecting the region's culinary heritage. Indulge in Baja-style fish tacos, freshly caught seafood enveloped in a crisp shell with salsa and avocado, or sample ceviche, a medley of marinated fish or shrimp with citrus and spices. Each bite in Cabo San Lucas is a culinary voyage, inviting visitors to savour Baja cuisine against a backdrop of natural beauty.

Trending food spots in Cabo San Lucas:

• Alebrije: Located in the desired Las Ventanas Al Paraiso A Rosewood Resort, this restaurant tributes Mexican heritage, creating a gastronomic journey through Oaxaca. Plus if you’re staying here, the Tequila and Ceviche Bar is a must.
• Sunset Monalisa: Renowned for its open-air setting, delight in fine dining Mediterranean dishes while marvelling at views of the ocean – it's our favourite spot for sunset watching. 
• El Farallon: On every foodie’s bucket list, this cliffside dining destination serves some of the best seafood in Mexico with a sea-to-table ethos, and an ocean backdrop to match. 
• The Office: For a laid-back beach club vibe, head to The Office (which is probably a lot more fun than your usual workday setting). Enjoy heavenly lobster, traditional Mexican dishes and lots of tequila-based cocktails. Arriba!

Known as the food capital of Europe, San Sebastián is a culinary hub drawing food enthusiasts worldwide. Despite its size, the town is decorated in Michelin stars, in fact, it has one of the highest number per square metre in the world. On the to-eat list is pintxos, a food culture that thrives here, offering bite-sized delights like the iconic Gilda and succulent txuleta. For those with a sweet tooth, indulge in creamy Basque-style cheesecake. In San Sebastian, every meal celebrates culinary artistry and Basque flavours - so grab a fork and dive in!

Trending food spots in San Sebastián:

• Martín Berasategui: This renowned chef’s San Sebastán establishment boasts an impressive three Michelin stars. The á la carte and tasting menu combines signature dishes and brand-new creations teeming with the finest local produce. 
• Ganbara: On The World’s 50 Best Restaurants list, this eatery not only offers a casual pintxos bar but also a cosy downstairs restaurant serving local fare. The sautéed wild mushrooms with egg yolk is a must-order. 
• Bar Nestor: This family-run bar has been open since 1980 and is renowned for its Spanish tortilla and perfectly cooked steak. 
• Beti Jai Berria: Famed pintxos bar that is Michelin recommended. We advise doing a pintxos crawl if you can, but this place goes to the top of the list. 

Austin, Texas is one of the best places to travel for foodies, celebrated for its diverse culinary offerings. From food trucks and barbecue joints to fine dining restaurants, the city boasts an array of flavours to suit every taste. Sample classic Texan barbecue, where tender brisket is complemented by zesty sauces and traditional sides. Try Tex-Mex favourites like breakfast tacos filled with scrambled eggs and spicy chorizo or enjoy the comfort of chicken-fried steak with creamy gravy. Austin's fusion food blends the best of American cuisine with global influences, offering innovative dishes that redefine culinary boundaries. 

Trending food spots in Austin:

• Franklin Barbecue: Barbecue is Texas’ middle name and Franklin is a heavyweight in the Austin scene. You’ll need to bring a collapsable chair for your wait in line – but trust us when we say the brisket is worth it. 
• Clark’s Oyster Bar: East and West Coast oysters are flown in daily to ensure the freshest produce is served here. Pair with a classic martini, Champagne spritzers or a glass of rosé. 
• Justine’s Brasserie: A classic French brasserie with a dark and romantic atmosphere. Listen to the vibe grow louder as the evening gets late – the kitchen closes at midnight so ‘making a night of it’ comes naturally here. 
• Cenote: This understated neighbourhood café is the place to go for a Tex-Mex breakfast burrito and good quality coffee, making it the perfect place to start your day in Austin.

Singapore reigns as a premier food capital in Southeast Asia, renowned for its hawker centres, bustling markets, and Michelin-starred restaurants. Delight in the comfort of Hainanese chicken rice – the national dish consisting of poached chicken and seasoned rice served with chilli sauce and a cucumber garnish, or savour the fiery flavours of laksa, a coconut-based noodle soup. Each dish in Singapore reflects the city's multicultural heritage, making it a paradise for food enthusiasts in search of unique flavours.

Trending food spots in Singapore:

• VUE: Boasting an East meets West menu, this fine dining establishment is home to Singapore’s first rooftop spritz bar along with views of Marina Bay Sands and Singapore’s skyline.
• 藝 yì by Jereme Leung: Enjoy the epitome of Chinese fine dining led by celebrity chef Jereme Leung. The restaurant boasts a modern ambience located within the renowned Raffles Singapore – home to the original Singapore Sling. 
• Hill Street Thai Hwa Pork Noodle: Started by the founder in 1932, this hawker stall is the first to have received a Michelin star. Famous for handmade noodles and in particular bak chor mee, a must-try dish in Singapore. 
• Little India: This area of Singapore offers the best of Indian food outside of the country itself. Biryani is particularly incredible here. 

Lima stands as a culinary mecca, celebrated for its exquisite fusion of flavours and innovative culinary scene. Renowned dishes like ceviche, featuring fresh seafood marinated in zesty citrus juices or local delicacies such as cuy – or guinea pig to you and I – highlight Lima's culinary prowess and secure its place among the world's top food capitals. Pair these culinary delights with a refreshing pisco sour, Peru's national cocktail, crafted from pisco brandy, lime juice, syrup, and egg white, for an unforgettable gastronomic experience.

Trending food spots in Lima:

• Central: Voted The World’s Best Restaurant 2023 by The World's 50 Best, this buzzy restaurant was opened by Virgilio Martínez with a vision to create exceptional fine dining rooted in Peruvian ingredients. Get the full foodie experience with a 14-course tasting menu and drinks pairing. 
• Osaka: Nikkei, or Japanese, Peruvian fusion cuisine can be found across all of Peru, but no one does it quite like Osaka. This dark, sleek restaurant is impressive in every sense.
• Huaca Pucllana: This restaurant has taken the fundamentals of Peruvian cuisine and elevated it, serving food among The Huaca Pucllana – a great adobe and clay pyramid built in the 5th century AD. 
• Panchita: An understated, local dining location serving authentic food and cocktails. An unmissable taste of this special city.

Renowned for its vibrant food scene, Cape Town captivates travellers with a rich tapestry of flavours inspired by its multicultural heritage. From the iconic Cape Malay curry, a fusion of aromatic spices and tender meats, to the sumptuous bobotie, a savoury-sweet dish with minced meat and custard topping, Cape Town's culinary landscape is a celebration of diversity. To complement these culinary adventures, immerse yourself in the vibrant wine culture of the region with a glass of world-class South African wine, or try the refreshing notes of rooibos tea, a beloved local beverage.

Trending food spots in Cape Town:

• La Colombe: In the top 10 list for The World’s 50 Best Restaurants, this exceptional dining experience showcases the best of local, seasonal produce in the Silvermist Wine Estate. 
• On The Rocks: With views of Table Mountain and Robben Island, this predominately seafood restaurant drenches your senses in the ocean.
• Gold: An immersive African Experience. Indulge in a 14-course African tasting menu with face painting, African dancers and more, providing the ultimate dinner and show.
• The Bungalow: Situated between the Twelve Apostles, Lion’s Head and the Atlantic Ocean, this relaxed restaurant offers the perfect place for a spot of lunch and a cocktail – we recommend the lobster.

Copenhagen shines as a culinary powerhouse, celebrated for its pioneering New Nordic cuisine that blends tradition with innovation. Renowned dishes like smørrebrød, open-faced sandwiches with various toppings, and hearty frikadeller meatballs showcase the city's rich culinary heritage. Away from its hearty cuisine, the city is also famed for some of the best restaurants in the world, where Michelin-starred menus push culinary boundaries. No trip is complete without tasting the delicious Danish pastries, arguably the best place in Europe to pick up a flaky sweet treat. 

Trending food spots in Copenhagen:

• Noma: Three Michelin stars and a Michelin Green Star, Noma is a waterfront restaurant that offers a truly unique experience. From the greenhouse entrance to the ingredients on the plate, the test kitchen is one of the most evolved in the world. 
• Marv & Ben: Beautifully appointed restaurant serving Nordic gastronomy using seasonal, local ingredients. Marv & Ben is Michelin bibbed and showcases traditional dishes. 
• Selma: The first smørrebrød restaurant to receive a Bib Gourmand, come and try the famous Danish open sandwich here.
• Juno: Expect lengthy queues at this exquisite bakery but trust us – it’s worth the wait.

Nestled in the heart of Argentina's wine country, Mendoza emerges as a distinguished food capital. Top of the food list is the succulent cuts of grilled meats, such as the iconic Argentine asado, accompanied by flavourful chimichurri sauce. Savour empanadas, traditional pastries filled with savoury meats or cheeses, and delight in locro, a hearty stew made with corn, beans, and meat. Wash it down with Mendoza's world-class wines, including the Malbec, which pairs perfectly with the region's robust flavours. 

Trending food spots in Mendoza:

• Siete Fuegos: Found in The Vines Resort & Spa, acclaimed chef Francis Mallmann creates dishes which showcase Argentinian beef and wines cooked how it should be… Siete Fuegos or ‘seven fires’ describes the chef’s technique of open flame cooking.
• Azafrán: Holding one Michelin star, this beautiful restaurant serves traditional Argentinian dishes using the best ingredients and finest wines. 
• Centauro: This once mansion and boutique hotel has now been transformed into spectacular dining areas, a secluded wine cellar and cocktail bar serving innovative Argentinian cuisine. 
• Abrasado: Part of the Los Toneles winery, it’s unsurprising this restaurant has been the recipient of various Best Wine Tourism awards. Come for aged meats packed with flavour (the T-bone aged in black garlic is a hit), fine wine and excellent atmosphere.