The aroma of beignets and chicory coffee will waft through New Orleans this year as the Big Easy clinches the crown for the world's best food city in Time Out’s 2025 rankings. With its melting pot of French, Spanish, African, and Native American influences, New Orleans cuisine dazzles locals and visitors alike. However, one city is noticeably absent from this year’s list - Vietnam’s bustling Ho Chi Minh City.
Last year, Ho Chi Minh City ranked fourth among the planet's top food destinations. But sadly, in 2025, it's nowhere to be found among the mouthwatering metropolises.
According to Time Out’s survey of over 18,500 food-loving respondents, New Orleans edged out Bangkok for the top spot. The Thai capital ranked first last year but slipped to second place. Spanish-speaking cities made their mark as Medellín, Colombia grabbed third place followed by South Africa’s shining culinary star, Cape Town. Rounding out the top five is Madrid, highlighting Spain’s continued dominance as a gastronomic powerhouse.
Other newcomers on this year’s list include Mexico City with its tacos al pastor and Shanghai with its xiaolongbao soup dumplings. Perennial favorites Paris and Jakarta returned as well.
Time Out’s panel of global food experts and local journalists weighed in on the cities’ rankings. They highlighted New Orleans’ embrace of tradition and innovation. From classics like gumbo and po’ boys to modern standouts like Cochon’s duck confit tacos, the Big Easy continuously inspires.
So Where Did Saigon Go?
While Ho Chi Minh City fell short this year, it remains a dynamic food destination. The world's leading travel and restaurant guides consistently recognize the city's unique flavors.
Last year, TasteAtlas named Ho Chi Minh City one of the top gastronomic destinations on the planet. Key highlights include pho noodle soup, Vietnamese iced coffee, and banh mi sandwiches blending French and Vietnamese influences.
The city also continues to shine in the Michelin Guide’s 2024 awards. Three Saigon restaurants earned Michelin stars, including modern European hotspot Anan Saigon and Restaurant AKUNA’s French culinary delights. Vietnamese cuisine starred at Long Trieu with its eight-course tasting menu.
While Ho Chi Minh City slipped off the rankings this year, Vietnam’s exciting food scene continues to thrive. Da Nang earned a nod from The Michelin Guide as one of 2025's top 10 emerging culinary destinations. With the coastal city’s fresh seafood, breads, noodles, and street food, it's sure to satisfy any foodie’s cravings.
The Methodology Behind the Mouthwatering Rankings
Time Out's 2025 listing utilized a three-pronged approach. First, respondents weighed in through an extensive survey covering everything from fine dining to food carts. Next, the editors compiled shortlists of the highest-ranking cities. Finally, panels of local experts finalized the scores.
To capture a global perspective, the survey tapped into the opinions of 18,500 food lovers from across the world. Respondents shared their views on their hometown's culinary scene. They rated it across 18 categories such as affordability, sustainability, uniqueness and diversity.
Time Out then condensed the results to identify the highest scoring city for each country. The editors highlighted cities that balance tradition and innovation. From there, Time Out formed panels of food writers, critics, and chefs to review each location. Through debate and discussion, they reached a consensus on the final rankings.
This comprehensive process aims to provide a well-rounded snapshot of the greatest global food cities. But just like a complex mole sauce, capturing the totality of a city’s cuisine in a list is tricky. The rankings provide insight but exploring first-hand is the only way to truly taste a city’s flavors.
So foodies should take note of this year's winners. But don't count out fantastic food destinations like Ho Chi Minh City. Culinary treasures exist everywhere. We just need to grab a fork and find them.
FAQ About Ho Chi Minh City's Best Culinary Experiences
Ho Chi Minh City boasts some of Vietnam’s most mouthwatering dining experiences. Here are answers to common questions about exploring the city’s vibrant food scene.
What are some must-try dishes in Ho Chi Minh City?
Pho is the iconic dish you have to try in HCMC. Order a steaming bowl of beef noodle soup loaded with green onions and basil. Other highlights include banh mi sandwiches, Vietnamese coffee served hot or iced, and tasty spring rolls. Seafood lovers should try grilled prawns, crab soup, or clay pot catfish.
Where can I find excellent street food in the city?
Street food sizzles throughout the city, but some top spots include Ben Thanh Market, Nguyen Trai Street’s sidewalk eateries, and local night markets. Grab a plastic stool at makeshift restaurants along the roadsides to devour inexpensive noodle soups, grilled meat skewers, or refreshing fruit smoothies.
What are the top restaurants for fine dining?
Upscale restaurants to try include Anan Saigon for modern European cuisine and Restaurant AKUNA, home of beautifully plated French dishes. Xu Restaurant Lounge Bar offers a hip vibe and refined Vietnamese fare. The Secret Cellar serves gourmet takes on local classics in a chic, candlelit space.
Are there any cooking classes for visitors?
Sign up for a class with Vietnam Cookery Center Saigon to master local specialties. The Halfie Food Tour mixes walking, eating, and hands-on cooking demos. Vietnamese Street Food Tours teaches cooking techniques at local market stalls. Cyclo Resto offers interactive classes in a traditional Vietnamese home.
Where can I sample good craft beer in Ho Chi Minh City?
Check out microbreweries like Heart of Darkness Brewery, VietBrew, or Platinum Ales for excellent craft beer. Tap houses like BiaCraft Artisan Ales serve a wide array of local and imported brews. Or belly up to the bar at Hop Inn HCMC for their signature IPAs and stouts.
The intoxicating aromas, fiery flavors, and comfortable chaos of Ho Chi Minh City’s cuisine envelops visitors in an authentic Vietnamese experience. Follow your taste buds through the city’s bustling markets and down winding alleyways to uncover culinary gems. With an adventurous appetite, you’re sure to find satisfying Vietnamese comfort food around every corner.