6 Indian Food Cities Among World's 100 Best: A Proud Culinary Milestone

India has just given the world another reason to celebrate its extraordinary culinary heritage! In a moment of immense pride for every Indian food lover, six incredible Indian cities have secured their positions among the world's 100 best food cities. This remarkable achievement isn't just a number- it's a testament to centuries of culinary evolution, the magic of street food culture, and the sophisticated palates that have made Indian cuisine a global phenomenon.

From the bustling streets of Mumbai to the royal kitchens of Hyderabad, these food cities represent the very soul of India's diverse culinary landscape. Each city tells its own delicious story through aromatic spices, time-honoured recipes, and innovative culinary traditions that have captivated food enthusiasts worldwide.

In this blog, you will learn

• The Six Indian Cities: A Culinary Adventure

• Club Mahindra Experience Near Chennai

• Club Mahindra Restaurants and Dining Experiences

The Six Indian Cities: A Culinary Adventure

Mumbai- Global Rank 5: The Street Food Capital That Conquered the World

Mumbai’s rise to the 5th spot among the best food cities globally highlights its dynamic street food culture and culinary diversity. Blending Maharashtrian traditions with global influences, the city transforms simple ingredients into iconic flavours. From beach stalls to bustling streets, Mumbai’s food scene captures the spirit of India’s ultimate melting pot of tastes.

Mumbai's Top 5 Most Popular Dishes

• Pav Bhaji- A spicy, buttery vegetable mash served with toasted pav, pav bhaji is Mumbai’s signature comfort food. Born in the textile mills as a quick meal for workers, it has evolved into a citywide favourite, often enjoyed on Juhu Beach with extra butter and onions.
• Vada Pav- Often called Mumbai’s burger, this affordable snack consists of a deep-fried potato fritter stuffed in a pav with chutneys and chillies. Every Mumbaikar has a favourite vada pav stall, and the snack fuels the fast-paced life of the city.
• Chaat- From sev puri to ragda pattice, Mumbai’s chaat scene is legendary. Vendors balance sweet, tangy, spicy, and crunchy elements, creating an explosion of flavours in every bite.
• Bhelpuri- A light snack made from puffed rice, chutneys, onions, and sev, bhelpuri is synonymous with Chowpatty Beach evenings and the city’s vibrant street culture.
• Pani Puri- These crispy puris filled with spiced water, chickpeas, and chutneys offer pure joy. Mumbai’s pani puri vendors serve with flair, turning snacking into an experience.

Club Mahindra Experience Near Mumbai

For food enthusiasts looking to explore Mumbai's culinary scene while enjoying premium hospitality, Club Mahindra offers exceptional resort experiences nearby. Club Mahindra Tungi in Lonavala provides the perfect retreat after Mumbai food tours, while Club Mahindra Saaj in Mahabaleshwar offers spectacular hill station dining. Club Mahindra Alibaug brings beachside elegance close to Mumbai's coastal food culture, and Club Mahindra Hatgad combines Sahyadri mountain views with gourmet experiences. These resorts near Mumbai serve as ideal bases for exploring the best food cities in India while enjoying Club Mahindra's signature dining experiences.

Amritsar- Global Rank 43: The Sacred City of Flavours

Amritsar, ranked 43rd among the best food cities, is a true symbol of Punjab’s rich cuisine and warm hospitality. Famous for the Golden Temple’s langar, the city blends spirituality with culinary heritage. From tandoori delights to creamy curries and iconic sweets, Amritsar’s food culture showcases the soul of Punjab and its globally loved hearty flavours.

Amritsar's Top 5 Most Popular Dishes

• Kulcha- Amritsari kulchas are legendary stuffed breads, often filled with spiced potatoes, paneer, or onions. Baked in traditional tandoors and served with chole, tangy chutneys, and pickled onions, they are a breakfast staple that draws food lovers from across the country.
• Dal Makhani- This creamy lentil dish is slow-cooked overnight using black lentils, butter, and cream, resulting in a velvety, indulgent curry. Perfected in Amritsar’s dhabas, dal makhani embodies Punjab’s love for hearty, rich food.
• Phirni- A sweet rice pudding prepared with ground rice, milk, and sugar, phirni is traditionally set in earthen bowls and topped with nuts. Its cooling, delicate texture makes it the perfect finale to a spicy Punjabi meal.
• Sarson Ka Saag- Made from mustard greens and cooked with spices, this dish is traditionally paired with Makki di roti and a dollop of white butter. It represents Punjab’s agricultural bounty and is especially loved in winter.
• Palak Paneer- Fresh spinach cooked with cottage cheese and aromatic spices creates this nutritious yet comforting dish, cherished in Amritsari homes and restaurants alike.

Club Mahindra Experience in Amritsar

Fortune Ranjit Vihar, a Club Mahindra-associated resort. This resort in Amritsar offers travellers the perfect blend of traditional Punjabi hospitality and modern comfort. Located conveniently for exploring the city's famous food streets and the Golden Temple, this resort in Punjab provides an authentic taste of Amritsar's culinary heritage while ensuring a luxurious stay experience.

Delhi- Global Rank 45: The Capital of Culinary Diversity

Delhi, ranked 45 among the best food cities, is India’s ultimate culinary hub. From Mughlai delicacies in Chandni Chowk to contemporary fine dining in Connaught Place, the capital blends tradition with modern flavours. With influences from its rich history, Delhi’s food culture spans street delights to luxury meals, making it one of the best food cities in India.

Delhi's Top 5 Most Popular Dishes

• Chole Bhature- Puffy, deep-fried bhature served with spicy chickpeas make this dish Delhi’s most iconic indulgence. Often enjoyed for breakfast or lunch, it is found in famous eateries across Chandni Chowk and Karol Bagh, where locals line up for the perfect combination of soft bhature and tangy, flavour-packed chole.
• Aloo Tikki- Crispy potato patties, shallow fried and topped with yoghurt, chutneys, onions, and spices, transform into a street food delicacy. Delhi’s aloo tikki is a chaat lover’s dream, combining crunch with tangy-sweet chutneys for a burst of flavours in every bite.
• Nihari- A Mughlai speciality, nihari is a slow-cooked meat stew traditionally eaten for breakfast in Old Delhi. Simmered overnight with spices, it produces a rich gravy and tender meat, enjoyed with hot naan.
• Rajma Chawal- Kidney bean curry served with steamed rice is the ultimate comfort food for Delhiites. Whether at home or roadside dhabas, it’s a staple meal across the capital.
• Butter Chicken- Invented in Delhi, this creamy tomato-based chicken curry is now globally celebrated. Its velvety gravy and smoky, tender chicken pieces remain the city’s most famous culinary export.

Hyderabad- Global Rank 50: The Nizami Feast Continues

Hyderabad, ranked 50 among the best food cities, is renowned for its royal blend of Mughlai, Turkish, Arabic, and Telugu flavours. Famous for its world-class biryani, the City of Pearls showcases slow-cooked dishes, rich spices, and timeless recipes from the Nizam era. From old city lanes to modern hubs, Hyderabad remains one of India’s top food cities.

Hyderabad's Top 5 Most Popular Dishes

• Hyderabadi Biryani- The pride of Hyderabad, this biryani layers fragrant basmati rice with marinated meat, saffron, and spices, all slow-cooked using the dum method. Rich in aroma and taste, it reflects the grandeur of the Nizams and remains the city’s most celebrated dish.
• Haleem- A thick, paste-like stew of meat, wheat, lentils, and spices, haleem is slow-cooked for hours until creamy and smooth. Hugely popular during Ramadan, it has become a year-round delicacy, loved for its high protein content and comforting flavours.
• Chakna- This spicy goat trotters curry showcases Hyderabad’s mastery in using tough cuts of meat. Slow-cooked until gelatinous and tender, chakna is cherished for its bold, rich taste and is often enjoyed with bread or rice.
• Mirchi Ka Salan- A tangy curry made with green chillies, tamarind, peanuts, and sesame seeds, it’s the perfect accompaniment to biryani. Balancing spice with nutty, tangy notes, this dish highlights Hyderabad’s culinary creativity.
• Shikampuri Kebab- Soft patties of ground meat mixed with chickpeas, stuffed with hung curd and onions, these melt-in-the-mouth kebabs showcase the refined sophistication of Nizami cuisine.

Kolkata- Global Rank 71: Sweet Dreams and Savoury Delights

Kolkata, ranked 71 among the best food cities in India, is a true cultural and culinary gem. Famous for its sweets, vibrant street food, and authentic Bengali cuisine, the City of Joy blends tradition with flavour. From iconic North Kolkata sweet shops to Park Street’s bustling food scene, Kolkata remains one of India’s most delightful food cities.

Kolkata's Top 5 Most Popular Dishes

• Rasagulla- Kolkata’s most famous sweet, these spongy white chhena balls soaked in sugar syrup are beloved worldwide. Known for their melt-in-the-mouth texture and light sweetness, rasagullas have become a symbol of Bengali hospitality and festive joy.
• Kolkata Biryani- A lighter, Awadhi-inspired version of biryani, it is unique for including potatoes alongside meat and rice. The addition of saffron, subtle spices, and golden potatoes gives this biryani a distinct Kolkata flavour.
• Mishti Doi- A creamy caramelised yoghurt set in earthen pots, mishti doi balances tangy and sweet notes perfectly. Served chilled, it remains Kolkata’s most iconic dessert, enjoyed at homes and sweet shops alike.
• Mutton Kosha- A slow-cooked mutton curry prepared with onions, tomatoes, and spices until the gravy thickens and clings to the meat. Rich and aromatic, kosha mangsho is a weekend favourite across Bengal.
• Bhetki Paturi- A traditional delicacy where bhetki fish is marinated with mustard paste, wrapped in banana leaves, and steamed. The result is a fragrant, flavourful dish that highlights Bengal’s love for fish and mustard-based cooking.

Chennai- Global Rank 75: Where Tradition Meets Innovation

Chennai, ranked 75 among the best food cities, showcases the rich diversity of South Indian cuisine while embracing modern flavours. From bustling tiffin centres to dosa stalls, the city thrives on tradition and innovation. Rooted in Tamil culture, Chennai’s food highlights curd rice, filter coffee, and timeless dishes, making it one of India’s top food cities.

Chennai's Top 5 Most Popular Dishes

• Idli- Soft, steamed rice cakes served with sambar and coconut chutneys, idli is Chennai’s healthiest and most popular breakfast. Light yet filling, they reflect South Indian simplicity and are loved for their ease of digestion and versatility.
• Dosa- A thin, crispy crepe made from fermented rice and lentil batter, dosa is Chennai’s most iconic dish. From paper dosas to masala-filled versions, it is golden, crunchy, and enjoyed across the world as a South Indian speciality.
• Chicken 65- Said to have originated in Chennai in 1965, this fiery fried chicken dish is crunchy outside, juicy inside, and packed with bold spices. It’s now one of India’s favourite appetisers.
• Madras Curry- Known globally, this bright red curry blends tamarind, dried chillies, and curry leaves to create bold, tangy flavours. It showcases Chennai’s mastery over spice combinations.
• Pongal- A rice and lentil dish cooked with ghee, pepper, and curry leaves, pongal is both festive and comforting. Served sweet or savoury, it represents Tamil Nadu’s harvest traditions and culinary heritage.

Club Mahindra Experience Near Chennai

Club Mahindra enhances the South Indian culinary journey with premium resorts near Chennai. Club Mahindra Derby Green Ooty and Club Mahindra Danish Villa Ooty offer spectacular hill station retreats where guests can enjoy Tamil Nadu's diverse cuisine while surrounded by tea gardens and mountain views. These resorts in Tamil Nadu provide the perfect combination of traditional South Indian hospitality and modern luxury.

Club Mahindra Restaurants and Dining Experiences

The celebration of India's food cities extends beautifully into Club Mahindra's extraordinary dining experiences across the country! With restaurants like Aromas in Club Mahindra Virajpet, Curries in Club Mahindra Assonora, and Barbeque Bay in Club Mahindra Munnar, Club Mahindra has created culinary destinations that honour local flavours while offering international cuisines.

Club Mahindra’s commitment to showcasing India's diverse food culture through unique experiences like Raja-Rani Poolside Dinners, Junior Chef programs, and traditional Pahadi Cuisine Classes makes every meal a memorable adventure.

From tree house dining to beachside candlelight dinners, Club Mahindra transforms dining into an experience that celebrates the rich culinary heritage of the best food cities in India.

Conclusion

India's remarkable achievement of placing six cities among the world's 100 Best Food Cities fills every Indian heart with pride and excitement! This recognition validates what we've always known- that Indian cuisine's diversity, complexity, and sheer deliciousness deserve global acclaim. As these food cities continue to innovate while preserving traditions, they invite the world to experience India through its most universal language- food. Whether you're exploring street food in Mumbai or savouring royal cuisine in Hyderabad, India's culinary journey promises adventures that will leave you hungry for more!