When discussing Indian cuisine, the most popular cities that typically come to mind are Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and others. However, the recent list of the World's Best Cities for Food 2026 by Time Out has transformed the global perception of Indian food. In this list, a technology and IT hub has been rated among the best food cities, and the revelation is quite surprising. According to Time Out, Bengaluru has secured the 13th position after surveying more than 24,000 locals worldwide and consulting a panel of experts. The report indicates that the city received a 60 percent score from the food expert panel and an 82 percent quality rating from locals, thereby earning the 13th spot.
From sourdough pizza bars and natural wine spots to vinyl-bar-cum-breweries, Bengaluru has emerged as the only Indian city on the global list. Topping the list is Lima, followed by Bangkok, Mexico City, London, Barcelona, Ho Chi Minh City, Melbourne, Beijing, Athens, Lisbon, Cape Town, Osaka, Bengaluru, Naples, New York, Hong Kong, Buenos Aires, Marseille, Copenhagen, and Medellin.
What to Eat in Bengaluru
The best way to explore a city's flavors is by indulging in its local cuisine. Here are a few local dishes that are worth trying.
Bisi Bele Bath
This is a comforting one-pot meal made with rice, toor dal (split pigeon peas), tamarind, vegetables, and a special aromatic spice blend called Bisi Bele Bath powder.
Benne Masala Dosa
This popular South Indian dish is enjoyed in Bengaluru. Benne means butter in Kannada, and this dosa is cooked with butter, resulting in a crispy exterior and rich flavor. It is filled with spiced potato and served with coconut chutney.
Chow Chow Bath
This classic breakfast dish pairs Kesari Bath, a saffron-infused semolina dessert, with a savory counterpart. It is commonly served at traditional darshinis across the city and remains a nostalgic favorite for many Bengalureans.
Ragi Mudde
One of Karnataka's most traditional and nutritious dishes, made with finger millet flour and water, shaped into soft balls, and typically eaten with spicy sambar, saaru, or meat curries.
Maddur Vada
Native to Maddur town, located between Bengaluru and Mysuru, this crispy snack is made with rice flour, semolina, onions, curry leaves, and spices. It pairs well with filter coffee.
Vangi Bath
A classic rice dish that combines cooked rice with sautéed brinjals, tamarind, and aromatic spices, making for a satisfying one-pot meal.
Mysore Pak
While native to Mysuru, Mysore Pak is a sweet dish that has become an integral part of Bengaluru's culinary identity. It is made with gram flour, sugar, and generous amounts of ghee.
Congress Kadlekai
This spicy peanut snack is said to have originated near the city's Congress party office. It refers to a spicy blend of roasted peanuts tossed with onions, tomatoes, coriander, green chilies, lemon juice, and a blend of spices.
