The definitive guide for gourmands planning their future travels has been released, pinpointing the world's most exciting culinary destinations for the year 2026. Topping the prestigious ranking is the historic American city of Boston, Massachusetts.
A Global Gastronomic Tour
This eagerly anticipated list forms a key part of Condé Nast Traveller's "Best Places to Go" guide. It focuses on locations so celebrated for their food that they warrant planning an entire trip around sampling their unique delicacies. The selection showcases a blend of established epicurean capitals and emerging destinations poised to become the next big thing for discerning travellers.
The top ten features a diverse mix, from European favourites like Crete in Greece to vibrant cities in Colombia and Nepal. The common thread is an exceptional and compelling food culture that promises an unforgettable experience for visitors.
The Top Ten Food Destinations for 2026
Here are the locations that have earned a coveted spot on the list, as curated by the travel experts at Condé Nast Traveller.
1. Boston, USA
The New England city clinched the number one spot, praised for its "global flavours, waterfront dining, and more neighbourhood action than ever." While famously associated with fresh seafood like lobster rolls and clam chowder, Boston's culinary reputation has broadened significantly. It now boasts a thriving local restaurant scene marked by innovation and variety.
2. Crete, Greece
While Greek cuisine is globally adored, the island of Crete stands out. It offers specialities such as sfakianopita (a cheese pie drizzled with honey), bougatsa, smoked pork loin, and exceptionally flavourful local tomatoes and potatoes. The island is home to fantastic restaurants serving classic Greek dishes at their very best.
3. Fes, Morocco
Fes is highlighted for its "immersive culinary experiences, ancient markets, and a splashy opening from Alain Ducasse." The city is a sensory delight, where visitors can savour delicious tagines, couscous, freshly baked bread, and the ubiquitous mint tea amidst its bustling historic markets.
4. Hong Kong
This dynamic city is a hub of food innovation, seamlessly blending time-honoured culinary traditions with modern flair. The food scene presents a true fusion of Chinese, Cantonese, Japanese, and French influences. An abundance of stylish cocktail bars complements the dining experience.
5. Medellín, Colombia
Medellín's food scene is a vibrant representation of hearty Colombian cuisine. The standout dish is the Bandeja Paisa – a generous platter featuring meats, beans, rice, egg, and avocado. Other must-tries include cheesy arepas, crispy chicharrón, rich Mondongo soup, and sweet empanadas.
6. Minas Gerais, Brazil
This Brazilian region is celebrated for its distinctive cuisine centred on pork, beans, corn, and local cheeses. Key dishes include Pão de Queijo (cheese bread), Tutu de Feijão, and Frango com Quiabo. Notably, the region's artisanal cheese production has received recognition from UNESCO.
7. Parramatta, Sydney, Australia
Trendy Parramatta is a thriving hub for food and shopping, offering a lively mix of flavours inspired by Sydney's multicultural fabric. The area is particularly known for its excellent Lebanese restaurants, alongside a strong offering of Chinese and Japanese cuisine.
8. Patan, Nepal
Patan offers a deep dive into rich Newari cuisine, famous for dishes like Chatamari (a rice crepe "pizza"), Yomari (sweet rice dumplings), and flavourful momos. Condé Nast Traveller recommends it for its "knock-your-socks-off cocktails, tasteful takes on native ingredients, and lessons on Nepal’s tea terroir."
9. Prince Edward County, Canada
This picturesque Canadian region is as famous for its stunning landscapes and vineyards as it is for its food. The focus here is firmly on homegrown produce, served in many fantastic local restaurants. The area is also renowned for its handcrafted wines from numerous local vineyards.
10. Seville, Spain
Completing the list is Seville, a Spanish city celebrated for its quintessential tapas culture. Must-sample dishes include Espinacas con Garbanzos, marinated fried fish (Cazón en Adobo), slow-cooked pork cheeks (Carrillada), and exquisite Ibérico ham. For dessert, nothing beats the classic hot chocolate with churros.
Planning Your Culinary Journey
This list serves as a powerful inspiration for travellers looking to build their 2026 itineraries around world-class food. Whether drawn to the innovative seafood of Boston, the ancient markets of Fes, or the vineyard tours of Prince Edward County, each destination promises a unique and delicious adventure. It underscores how local cuisine remains a primary driver for tourism, offering a direct and memorable connection to a region's culture and heritage.
