India’s Biryani, Street Food & Spices Rock Global Rankings: 6 Cities in TasteAtlas Top 100
New Delhi, July 5, 2025 — India’s rich and diverse culinary culture has once again earned global recognition, with six Indian cities securing spots in TasteAtlas’ prestigious Top 100 food destinations for 2025. Among them, Hyderabad’s iconic biryani has taken center stage, clinching the 50th rank and proudly flying the flag for South Indian flavors on the world food map.
The latest rankings from TasteAtlas—a renowned global food guide known for its deep dives into traditional cuisines—evaluated 15,478 dishes across 17,073 cities, based on nearly half a million food ratings. The result? A celebration of India’s flavorful street food, royal kitchen legacies, and time-honored recipes that continue to captivate taste buds across the globe.
🇮🇳 Mumbai Takes the Lead at No. 5
Leading the Indian pack is Mumbai, which landed at #5 worldwide, thanks to its unstoppable street food culture. From vada pav to pav bhaji, Bombay biryani to ragda patties, the city’s fast-paced life is matched only by its fiery flavors. Legendary joints like Ram Ashraya, Café Madras, and Shree Thaker Bhojanalay have turned Mumbai into a global foodie magnet.
🍛 Amritsar Brings Punjabi Power (Rank 43)
In 43rd place, Amritsar serves up the bold, buttery richness of Punjab with dishes like Amritsari kulcha, chicken tikka, and shahi paneer. Infused with ghee, spices, and centuries of tradition, the city’s hearty cuisine reflects the vibrant Punjabi spirit.
🍲 Delhi’s Diverse Plate (Rank 45)
Delhi, at 45th, remains a culinary melting pot, blending Mughal grandeur with modern flavors. The capital’s bustling food scene offers everything from butter chicken and chole bhature to the slow-cooked nihari, showcasing a city where every bite tells a story of heritage and innovation.
🍗 Hyderabad’s Biryani Glory (Rank 50)
Known for its royal biryani, Hyderabad proudly holds the 50th spot, reaffirming its status as a culinary legend. The city’s biryani—an aromatic mix of Mughal, Turkish, and Iranian influences—is often slow-cooked to perfection with Telangana spices. “Hyderabadi biryani is a cultural blend on a plate,” says culinary historian Alok Singh, noting its unforgettable flavor profile. Hyderabad’s food legacy also includes Chicken 65, kebabs, and haleem, especially during Ramzan.
🥘 Kolkata’s Comforting Classics (Rank 71)
At 71st, Kolkata serves up soulful nostalgia with dishes like kathi rolls, mughlai paratha, and the beloved rosogolla. Rooted in Bengali traditions, mustard oil flavors, and colonial influences, Kolkata’s cuisine is both hearty and historic.
🌶️ Chennai’s Spicy Simplicity (Rank 75)
Chennai, at 75th, brings the soul of South India to the global table with crispy dosas, soft idlis, and fiery Chettinad curries. Infused with curry leaves, tamarind, and mustard seeds, the city’s flavors speak of comfort, tradition, and spice.
🇮🇹 Italy Dominates the Top 10
While India makes a strong showing, Italy leads the global food rankings, with six cities—Naples, Milan, Bologna, Florence, Rome, and Turin—occupying top 10 positions. Their legendary pasta, pizza, and wine culture continues to set the gold standard in global gastronomy.
🍽️ India’s Culinary Rise
The inclusion of six Indian cities in the global top 100 is not just a win—it’s a celebration of India’s diverse regional cuisines and timeless cooking traditions. From Mumbai’s buzzing food stalls to Hyderabad’s slow-cooked biryani pots, Indian food is finally being recognized as a powerful player on the international culinary stage.
