Street food in India has always been one of the greatest reasons for exploring the places around, and now it has acquired global credit. Time Out has released its Best Cities for Street Food in 2026 list, honouring destinations where local foods and roadside treats are an essential part of everyday life.
While cities across Asia, Africa and the Americas dominate the list, India has also bagged three spots here. As per the list, Mumbai ranks at the 10th position, followed by Jaipur at 15th, whereas New Delhi stands at the 19th position.
The rankings showcase how deeply street food is interwoven into the culinary identity in India, that continue to lure locals and tourists alike. The cities have been acknowledged for their exceptional street food offerings.
Mumbai Ranks Among The World's Top Street Food Destinations
The street food culture of Mumbai is defined by its never-ending speed, affordable prices and exceptional flavours. Whether it's a staple vada pav, spicy misal pav, tangy bhel puri, crisp sev puri or hot pav bhaji, every dish offers its own legendary fan following. From the bustling lanes of Girgaon Chowpatty to Mohammed Ali Road and Juhu Beach, the street food culture of Mumbai reflects the diversity of the city, where generations of the same food vendors continue serving the locals and tourists alike.
(Credit: Freepik)
Jaipur Earns Global Recognition For Its Vibrant Street Food
Jaipur, which has secured 15th position, showcases the rich street food culture of the pink city. The city is famous for pyaaz kachori, mawa kachori, mirchi vada, ghevar, lassi and a variety of sweets that lure visitors from all over. Areas like Johari Bazaar, Bapu Bazaar and MI Road have long been loved places for those who like to relish the authentic Rajasthani flavours.
New Delhi's Legendary Street Food Finds A Place On The Global List
The capital's street food showcases diversity in culinary influences, delivering everything from golgappe, aloo tikki, chole bhature and chaat to delectable parathas, kebabs and rich Mughlai treats. Popular food hubs like Chandni Chowk, Lajpat Nagar, Karol Bagh and Old Delhi persist, drawing both locals and tourists both.
(Credit: Freepik)
The Best Cities For Street Food In 2026
Here are the names of the cities that made Time Out's Best Street Food Cities in the World 2026 list:
- Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
- Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Jakarta, Indonesia
- Taipei, Taiwan
- Mexico City, Mexico
- Manila, Philippines
- Hanoi, Vietnam
- Johannesburg, South Africa
- Bangkok, Thailand
- Mumbai, India
- Marrakesh, Morocco
- Los Angeles, United States
- Beijing, China
- Singapore, Singapore
- Jaipur, India
- Guadalajara, Mexico
- Nairobi, Kenya
- Bucharest, Romania
- New Delhi, India
- Accra, Ghana