Naples, Italy, has officially been crowned the City with the Best Food in the World, according to the latest rankings by the renowned culinary website, Taste Atlas. This ancient port city earned a perfect 5 out of 5 stars, making it the only city to achieve this absolute distinction as of the October 25th update. For any discerning food lover, a culinary pilgrimage to Naples is non-negotiable, with must-try items including the authentic Pizza Margherita, delicate gnocchi, and the exquisite pastry sfogliatella.
The ranking, determined by evaluations from countless experts and diners, reaffirms Naples’ status as a global gastronomic powerhouse. Its perfect score is a testament to a rich and complex food culture that has captivated palates worldwide.
This recognition comes at a time when culinary tourism is booming. Activities like food tours and cooking classes are increasingly popular, offering travelers not only a taste of local cuisine but also a deeper understanding of the culture and history behind the dishes. For many visitors, savoring local dishes is a vital way to connect with the daily life and soul of a place, and Naples provides one of the most rewarding experiences.
When visiting the City with the Best Food in the World, certain dishes are considered mandatory experiences. Culinary experts highlight the following:
- Pizza Margherita: The world’s most famous pizza originated here, a simple yet perfect creation featuring San Marzano tomatoes, mozzarella, fresh basil, and olive oil, representing the colors of the Italian flag.
- Gnocchi: These small, soft dough dumplings, often made from potato, are a staple, served with a variety of rich sauces.
- Sfogliatella: A shell-shaped pastry with a crispy, multi-layered crust and a creamy filling, this dessert is an iconic symbol of Neapolitan baking.
Naples’ culinary tradition is intrinsically linked to its long and varied history. As an ancient port city, its cuisine is a flavorful mosaic, influenced by the Greeks, Romans, and other cultures. The city’s historical significance as the capital of the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies further cemented its profound culinary legacy.
This blend of influences is evident in the food itself, ranging from the elaborate recipes once favored by the aristocracy to the sophisticated street food made with hyper-local, fresh ingredients. Naples’ unique geographical position provides access to exceptional produce, such as tomatoes grown in the mineral-rich volcanic soil of Mount Vesuvius and the freshest seafood from the Mediterranean.
As Secret Food Tours notes, Neapolitan food culture is a vibrant reflection of the city’s past. Every conquering or passing culture has left its distinct mark on the cuisine, resulting in a unique fusion that is both historically valuable and intensely flavorful. This is what truly elevates Naples to the status of the City with the Best Food in the World.
The city’s sweet treats are just as celebrated as its savory dishes. Visitors are spoiled for choice with a delightful array of traditional desserts:
- Tarallo Cookies: Savory and sometimes sweet rings, often made with lard and pepper.
- Babà al Rum: A small, yeast-risen cake soaked in rum syrup, a quintessential Neapolitan dessert.
- Struffoli: Small, deep-fried dough balls coated in honey and sprinkles, typically enjoyed during the Christmas season.
- Torta Caprese: A decadent chocolate and almond cake, famously flourless.
Other local specialties to look out for include Graffe Napoletane, crispy, donut-like fried treats, and Fiocchi di Neve (snowflakes), light, delicate pastries filled with a mixture of ricotta, fresh cream, and mascarpone.
Naples’ top placement is part of a strong showing for Italian cities on the list. Milan secured the second spot, celebrated for its exquisite dishes such as risotto alla Milanese (saffron-infused rice) and the classic holiday sweet bread, panettone. Close behind, Bologna claimed third place, widely regarded as the birthplace of the rich and complex ragù sauce.
The Taste Atlas ranking methodology is rigorous, selecting destinations from over 17,000 cities worldwide based on the highest average ratings for the most commonly served local dishes.
While Naples takes the crown, many other cities globally were recognized for their outstanding cuisine. The list provides an excellent roadmap for food-focused travel. Notably, several Vietnamese cities made the Top 100, underscoring the richness of Southeast Asian cuisine:
- Hue (35th): Achieved an average food rating of 4.53/5 stars, famous for its refined Imperial cuisine.
- Hanoi (40th): Scored an average of 4.5/5, known for iconic street food like Phở and Bún chả.
- Ho Chi Minh City (56th): Secured an average of 4.45/5, offering a vibrant, dynamic, and diverse culinary scene.
For those seeking the ultimate gastronomic adventure, the title of the City with the Best Food in the World belongs unequivocally to Naples. Its deep history, perfect ingredients, and beloved culinary traditions make it a destination that truly satisfies every craving.
(According to DM)
