ASIATODAY.ID, JAKARTA — Indonesia’s capital has made a powerful statement on the global culinary map. Jakarta has officially ranked 5th among Asia’s Best Food Cities in the TasteAtlas 2025 edition, outperforming culinary giants such as Tokyo, Shanghai, and Hong Kong.
In the global ranking of 100 Best Food Cities in the World, Jakarta secured 21st place worldwide, cementing its status as one of the most compelling gastronomic destinations on the planet.
The recognition highlights Jakarta’s rich food heritage, where street food culture, traditional recipes, and bold flavors converge into a culinary identity that resonates far beyond Southeast Asia.
Jakarta Surpasses Asia’s Culinary Heavyweights
According to TasteAtlas, Jakarta placed just below Singapore at the Asian level, earning an average rating of 4.1. The city was praised for its diversity, depth of flavor, and strong culinary traditions.
Among the must-try dishes recommended in Jakarta are: Nasi uduk, Gado-gado, Chicken porridge (bubur ayam), Soto Betawi, Bakso (Indonesian meatball soup).
These dishes demonstrate how Jakarta’s everyday comfort foods rival — and even surpass — some of Asia’s most celebrated cuisines.
Mumbai Crowned Asia’s Best Food City
At the top of the Asian ranking sits Mumbai, India, which claimed first place with a 4.78 rating. TasteAtlas highlighted Mumbai’s vibrant street food scene, featuring iconic dishes such as bhelpuri, pav bhaji, vada pav, modak, and ragda pattice.
Osaka and Kyoto Reinforce Japan’s Culinary Power
Second place was taken by Osaka, Japan, with a 4.74 rating, thanks to globally beloved dishes like takoyaki, okonomiyaki, shabu-shabu, and kushiage. Osaka also ranked 11th worldwide.
Kyoto followed closely in third place, reinforcing Japan’s long-standing reputation as a global culinary powerhouse.
Top 20 Best Food Cities in Asia – TasteAtlas 2025
Here is the complete list:
Mumbai, India
Osaka, Japan
Kyoto, Japan
Singapore
Jakarta, Indonesia
Tokyo, Japan
Shanghai, China
Bandung, Indonesia
Hue, Vietnam
Hong Kong, China
Padang, Indonesia
Hanoi, Vietnam
Amritsar, India
Beijing, China
New Delhi, India
Hyderabad, India
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Bangkok, Thailand
Surabaya, Indonesia
Seoul, South Korea
Indonesia’s Culinary Rise on the Global Stage
The inclusion of Jakarta, Bandung, Padang, and Surabaya underscores Indonesia’s growing influence in global gastronomy. From rendang and sate to soto and street food classics, Indonesian cuisine is gaining worldwide recognition.
Jakarta’s achievement — ranking above Tokyo and Hong Kong — sends a clear message: Indonesia’s culinary heritage is no longer regional. It is fast becoming a global cultural and creative force. (AT Network)
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