South Africa has been ranked the 10th-best country for food in the world in the 2026 Condé Nast Traveller Readers' Choice Awards, placing the country among the top culinary destinations recognised by the travel magazine's readers.
The ranking gives travellers another reason to explore South Africa's food culture, which reflects a mix of indigenous traditions and influences from Malay, Indian and European communities. From traditional braais and Cape Malay dishes to Durban's Indian-influenced cuisine, the country's regional specialities offer plenty to discover beyond its better-known wildlife and natural attractions.
Exploring South Africa's food culture
South Africa's cuisine varies considerably between regions, making food an interesting part of a journey through the country.
In Cape Town and the Western Cape, travellers can try Cape Malay specialities such as bobotie and fragrant curries, alongside the region's seafood and contemporary restaurant scene. The Cape Winelands, including Stellenbosch, Franschhoek and Paarl, offer opportunities to combine local cuisine with visits to wine estates.
Durban, meanwhile, is known for its Indian-influenced food. One of the city's best-known specialities is bunny chow, a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with curry. Further inland, Johannesburg, Pretoria and other urban centres offer a wide range of restaurants serving traditional South African dishes and contemporary interpretations of local ingredients.
A traditional braai is another experience worth seeking out. Grilled meat, boerewors and a selection of side dishes are central to this popular South African way of cooking and socialising.
South Africa in the 2026 food ranking
The Condé Nast Traveller Readers' Choice Awards are based on reader ratings and reflect travellers' experiences and preferences. South Africa achieved a score of 94.26%, placing it tenth in the magazine's 2026 ranking of the world's best countries for food.
Italy topped the list with 96.92%, followed by Greece (96.72%) and Portugal (96.57%). Croatia ranked ninth with 94.39%, immediately ahead of South Africa.
The ranking is based on readers' experiences and preferences, so it is not a definitive verdict on which country's food is best. Still, South Africa's place in the top ten is a welcome reminder that the country's culinary traditions deserve a place alongside its better-known attractions.
For visitors planning a trip, the result is a reminder to look beyond the country's established attractions. Regional dishes, local restaurants and traditional cooking experiences can add another dimension to a South African itinerary, whether travelling along the coast, visiting the major cities or exploring the country's wine regions.
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