The South African city voted the best in the world for food

Source: Businesstech, 18/11/2024

The City of Cape Town in the Western Cape has been voted as the best city for food in the world.This is according to Condé Nast Travelers 2024 Readers Choice Awards, where 575,048 votes were cast in its 37th annual survey.Looking at the results of the top ten Best Cities for Food in the World, this is made up of:1.Cape Town, South Africa Score 95.652.Milan, Italy Score 95.203.Valencia, Spain Score 95.004.Tokyo, Japan Score 94.785.Porto, Portugal Score 94.486.Hong Kong, China Score 93.947.Bangkok, Thailand Score 93.718.Rome, Italy Score 93.339.Singapore Score 92.9010.Sydney, Australia Score 92.50Cape Town Mayoral Committee Member (MMC) for Economic Growth, James Vos said that Cape Towns recognition as one of the worlds best cities for food by Conde Nast is a testament to our goal of driving a thriving visitor economy through unforgettable culinary experiences.He explained that Cape Town welcomes 226 international flights weekly, attracting travelers eager to experience its great cuisine and culture.I want to celebrate our talented chefs, restaurateurs and food artisans whose passion and creativity have made Cape Townâs culinary scene truly world-class, said Vos.With the goal of positioning Cape Town as a world-class destination, this award fuels our commitment to making Cape Town not just a place to visit, but a place to return to time and time again, he added.______________10 SydneyCond Nast Traveler food experts explained that Sydneys food scene has significantly evolved in recent years. While Australians are famous for their brunch culture, the city is increasingly attracting Michelin-starred chefs. Trendy spots like BTWN at W Sydney cater to discerning diners, while locals flock to lively neighborhood bistros like 20 Chapel and Postino Osteria. Cocktails are also back in vogue, with Cantina OK! making a notable return to The Worlds 100 Best Bars in 2024.______________9 Singapore Singapores culinary landscape is shaped by centuries of Indian, Chinese, and Malaysian migration.According to travel and food writer Sharan Kuganesan, the citys hawker centers offer some of the most affordable yet exceptional meals around. Notably, Hill Street Tai Hwa Pork Noodles boasts one of the worlds most affordable Michelin-starred meals, featuring mouthwatering minced pork noodles for just reasonable prices.Local favorites abound, including Hainanese chicken rice, chili crab, and roti prata, making Singapore a must-see for food enthusiasts.______________8 RomeIn Rome, the past and present blend seamlessly, and the citys dining scene reflects this juxtaposition. Kuganesan highlights classic Roman dishes like carbonara and cacio e pepe, which stand alongside innovative interpretations at fine dining establishments. The vibrant street food scene features delights like supplì (fried rice balls) and carciofi alla romana (braised artichokes). For an authentic experience, visitors can wander through the trattorias of Trastevere, perfect for savoring local flavors and people-watching. ______________7 BangkokBangkok, a haven for adventurous foodies, offers a culinary journey unlike any other. From the vibrant street food markets like Mahadthai Night Market and the reinvented Rod Fai Market, to the innovative dishes at Gaggan, ranked among the worlds best, Bangkoks food scene is a captivating blend of tradition and modernity. The citys Michelin-starred restaurants further elevate its culinary reputation, offering a diverse range of fine dining experiences.______________6 Hong KongHong Kong is a foodies paradise, offering a diverse culinary scene that ranges from humble street food to Michelin-starred fine dining. One can indulge in iconic dishes like pineapple tarts and dim sum, or explore the citys vibrant night markets, such as Mahadthai Night Market and the revamped Rod Fai Market. For a truly unforgettable experience, the Condé Nast Traveler team suggest visiting Din Tai Fung for unforgettable dumplings before nightcaps in one of the chic rooftop bars dotted across the city.______________5 PortoPorto, Portugal, offers a delightful culinary experience and is hot on the heels of its neighbour (and some may say, rival), Lisbon. Its vibrant food scene features everything from Michelin-starred restaurants like Euskalduna Studio, Gruta, and Cantinho do Avillez to cozy cafes serving traditional Portuguese fare. Expert suggest to not miss the iconic francesinha, a hearty sandwich layered with meat, cheese, and a special sauce. With its rich culinary heritage and diverse dining options, Porto is a food lovers dream.______________4 TokyoIn Tokyo, finding a high-quality meal that suits your budget feels effortlessly attainable. The city boasts the highest number of Michelin-starred restaurants globally, offering everything from upscale omakase experiences to casual izakayas that serve highballs and conveyor belt sushi, where you pay for each plate.The iconic Tsukiji Market (the worlds largest fish market) with its bustling atmosphere and fresh seafood, is a must-visit for any food lover where early-morning tuna auctions and stalls selling yakitori (chicken skewers brushed with a sweet soy glaze) and tamagoyaki (sweet and savory rolled omelet) open their doors as early as 5 a.m.______________3 ValenciaValencia, Spain, has emerged as a culinary powerhouse, challenging San Sebastins long-held title. Renowned as the birthplace of paella, Valencia offers a diverse range of dining experiences, from traditional rice dishes like arròs al forn to fresh seafood delicacies. Restaurants like Restaurante Levante and Casa Carmela are renowned for their authentic paella preparations.Supper is a rice-fuelled affair in this coastal town, mixed with fresh-as-it-comes seafood or ingredients such as sausage, chickpeas and potato, as in arròs al forn, said the foodie experts.______________2 MilanWhile Milan is often a gateway to Italys more serene regions, it offers a vibrant culinary scene in its own right. The city is renowned for its hearty dishes like minestrone Milanese and cotoletta alla Milanese (breaded veal cutlet). With its diverse dining options, Milan caters to every palate, from traditional trattorias to contemporary fine-dining establishments.______________1 Cape TownNow on to number one the Mother City.Cape Towns culinary scene is as diverse as its stunning landscapes. From sprawling food markets, countless restaurants and great seafood, foodies are seen to be spoilt for choice.African, Dutch, Malay, and Indian cuisines influence South African cuisine, so it is a melting pot of exceptional food.Amble along the waterfront and nurse a crisp glass of wine while steaks and fresh seafood sizzle in the kitchen, or get in on the viniculture at Babylonstoren, the celebrated vineyard in the Cape Winelands.Restaurants like Seven Colours Eatery showcase Cape Malay spices, while the Happy Uncles offers halal fine dining. Street food also flourishes, with options like biltong, bunny chow, kotas and koeksisters tempting passersby.