Jakarta Among Best Cities for Culinary Tourism, According to Time Out

Jakarta has secured 10th place in Time Out’s list of the best cities for culinary tourism worldwide, which also includes major international destinations such as New Orleans, Bangkok, and Cape Town.

The British media outlet Time Out recently released a list of the 20 best cities for culinary tourism, based on a survey of more than 18,500 people globally to determine the top food destinations. According to its official website, the survey considered 18 different criteria, including quality, affordability, and characteristics ranging from ‘family-friendly’ to ‘experimental’ dining experiences.

Jakarta ranked 10th, just after Paris, France. One of the key reasons for this recognition is the city’s rich culinary diversity, influenced by nearly all major ethnic groups in Indonesia, as well as Dutch, Chinese, Arabic, and Indian cultures.

Based on the survey results, 75% of respondents in Jakarta described the city’s cuisine as diverse, while 73% remarked that the food in Jakarta is delicious. Moreover, Jakarta achieved an impressive 94% approval rating for its culinary scene.

Time Out also highlighted two must-visit locations for a culinary adventure in Jakarta: Jalan Sabang and Jalan Pecenongan, both renowned for their vibrant street food stalls. Here, visitors can savour a range of dishes, from Sumatran-style noodles and flavourful Madurese satay to fragrant steamed rice dishes influenced by Chinese cuisine. For those seeking fine dining, Jakarta also boasts high-end restaurants such as Caspar and Henshin, which offer Spanish and Peruvian flavours, respectively.

Here are the 20 best cities for culinary tourism, according to Time Out, with number one considered the best of the best:

1. New Orleans, United States – Home to flavour-packed dishes like gumbo, jambalaya, and beignets;
2. Bangkok, Thailand – A paradise for street food lovers and Michelin-starred dining;
3. Medellín, Colombia – Affordable cuisine complemented by world-class coffee;
4. Cape Town, South Africa – Fresh seafood with distinctive local flavours;
5. Madrid, Spain – A creative fusion of traditional and modern gastronomy;
6. Mexico City, Mexico – A haven for tacos, tamales, and authentic Latin American dishes;
7. Lagos, Nigeria – Famous for jollof rice and spice-infused roasted suya;
8. Shanghai, China – A balance of time-honoured recipes and modern culinary innovation;
9. Paris, France – The heart of haute cuisine, with legendary croissants and escargot;
10. Jakarta, Indonesia – Celebrated for its world-famous rendang, satay, and fried rice;
11. Marrakech, Morocco – Exotic North African flavours, including tagine and couscous;
12. Lima, Peru – Fresh ceviche and authentic Andean cuisine;
13. Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – A showcase of Middle Eastern culinary traditions;
14. Mumbai, India – Famous for biryani, chaat, and rich curries;
15. Abu Dhabi, UAE – A melting pot of Arabic and international flavours;
16. Cairo, Egypt – Unique specialities like koshari and falafel;
17. Porto, Portugal – Home to bacalhau, francesinha, and fine port wine;
18. Montreal, Canada – Known for its iconic poutine and bagels;
19. Naples, Italy – The birthplace of the original pizza; and
20. San José, Costa Rica – A culinary scene defined by fresh, tropical ingredients.