By a Correspondent
South Africa has been ranked among the world’s best countries for food in 2026, emerging as the only African nation to feature on the global list compiled through Time Out’s Readers’ Choice Awards.
The country scored 94.26% in the rankings, placing it among the leading culinary destinations worldwide and highlighting the diversity of its food culture, which blends indigenous traditions with European, Indian and Malay influences.
Thousands of readers participated in the survey, rating countries based on their culinary experiences and the appeal of their food traditions.
Italy topped the list with a score of 96.92%, reflecting its reputation for regional specialities ranging from Naples-style pizza and Sicilian pastries to risotto and coastal seafood dishes.
South Africa’s inclusion underscores the international appeal of its diverse culinary landscape, which spans traditional home cooking, street food, contemporary restaurants and established wine-producing regions.
One of the country’s most distinctive food traditions is the braai, a form of outdoor grilling that brings families and communities together over meat, including beef, lamb, chicken and boerewors, a traditional South African sausage.
Cape Malay cuisine is another defining feature of the country’s food culture, particularly in Cape Town, where aromatic spices and curries feature prominently in local dishes.
Among the best-known specialities is bobotie, a baked minced-meat dish typically topped with an egg-based custard. South Africa is also known for bunny chow, a popular street food originating in Durban that consists of a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with curry.
The country’s extensive coastline provides access to fresh seafood, while major cities such as Cape Town and Johannesburg have developed restaurant scenes combining local ingredients with international cooking techniques.
South Africa’s wine-producing regions further strengthen its culinary tourism offering, attracting visitors seeking food-and-wine experiences alongside traditional dishes and fine dining.
The recognition comes as food tourism continues to provide countries with opportunities to showcase their cultural heritage, attract international visitors and support hospitality businesses.
Although Italy claimed the top position, South Africa’s presence as the sole African representative places the country firmly among the destinations recognised by international respondents for their culinary experiences.
