Cape Town and Johannesburg ranked among the World's Best Food Cities in 2026

Cape Town has once again cemented its reputation as one of the world's great culinary destinations, while Johannesburg has earned global recognition for something every budget-conscious traveller loves: outstanding street food.

In its latest global food rankings, Time Out named Cape Town the world's 11th best city for food and Johannesburg the world's 8th best city for street food. Together, the two South African cities showcase just how diverse the country's food scene has become—from award-winning fine dining overlooking the Atlantic Ocean to flavour-packed meals served from roadside grills and neighbourhood markets.

For anyone planning a trip to South Africa, that's another excellent reason to arrive hungry.

Cape Town remains one of the world's top food destinations

Although Cape Town slipped just outside the global top 10 after ranking higher in previous years, it remains Africa's highest-ranked city on Time Out's overall food list. The ranking was compiled using responses from more than 24,000 locals worldwide, combined with assessments from Time Out's editors and food experts.

The Mother City's appeal goes far beyond expensive tasting menus.

According to Time Out, Cape Town's food scene stands out for its creativity, sustainability and its close connection to the ocean. Restaurants are increasingly embracing locally foraged ingredients, seasonal produce and responsibly sourced seafood, while the city's cafés, wine bars and casual eateries continue to evolve.

Time Out highlighted several venues that reflect these trends, including:

• Amura at Mount Nelson, where celebrated Spanish chef Ángel León brings his seafood-focused cuisine to Africa.
• The Test Kitchen Fledgelings, combining playful street-food inspiration with refined techniques.
• FYN, internationally recognised for its sustainable approach and Japanese-South African fusion.
• Zuney Wagyu, showing that even gourmet burgers can be locally sourced and environmentally conscious.

Interestingly, 93% of Cape Town residents rated their city's food scene highly, one of the strongest approval ratings in the survey. The only area where locals were less enthusiastic was affordability, with fewer than half considering dining out inexpensive.

Johannesburg proves great food doesn't need white tablecloths

While Cape Town impressed for its restaurant scene, Johannesburg claimed 8th place in Time Out's list of the world's best street food cities for 2026.

For many travellers, this ranking may be even more exciting.

Johannesburg's street food reflects the city's incredible cultural diversity. Here you'll find influences from across South Africa and the African continent alongside Indian, Portuguese, Middle Eastern and Asian flavours.

A visit isn't complete without sampling local favourites such as:

• Kota sandwiches
• "plates" of pap with braaied meat
• Vetkoek
• Shisa nyama (South Africa's famous township barbecue culture)
• ogodu (tripe), diana (chicken offal), morogo (African spinach) and chakalaka

Neighbourhoods such as Maboneng, Braamfontein, Yeoville, Fordsburg and Soweto offer excellent opportunities to experience Johannesburg's informal food culture.

Unlike fine dining, street food also provides one of the most affordable ways to experience authentic local flavours while interacting with residents and discovering neighbourhoods beyond the usual tourist attractions.

Tips for food-loving travellers

If food is one of the highlights of your trip, consider these suggestions:

• It might be a good idea to reserve popular Cape Town restaurants up to several weeks in advance, especially during the summer season.
• Mix fine dining with neighbourhood cafés and food markets for a broader experience.
• Join a guided township or street food tour in Johannesburg if it's your first visit.
• Don't overlook local specialities such as bobotie, Cape Malay curry, braai, biltong, koeksisters and milk tart.
• Ask locals where they eat—the best meals are often found away from the obvious tourist hotspots.

Bottom line

South Africa now features in two of Time Out's most prestigious global food rankings—and for good reason.

Cape Town continues to impress travellers with its innovative restaurants, spectacular settings, world-class chefs and a vibrant street food culture, while Johannesburg not only reminds us that unforgettable meals don't need reservations or Michelin-style presentation, but also boasts some of the country's best restaurants.

Whether you're planning a luxury culinary escape, a self-drive holiday or simply looking for the best local flavours along the way, both cities deserve a place on every food lover's itinerary.

Sometimes the best souvenir from South Africa isn't something you pack in your suitcase—it's the meal you'll still be talking about long after you've returned home.

Cape Town named the world’s most beautiful city in 2026 (according to locals)

Cape Town has once again secured a spot on the global travel radar after being featured in Time Out’s “The world’s most beautiful cities in 2026, according to locals” ranking. Based on responses from residents across 150 cities worldwide, the South African city stood out with an impressive 86% of locals saying they consider their city beautiful.

For travellers, this isn’t exactly surprising. Cape Town has long been one of those destinations that regularly appears on global “must-visit” lists – and for good reason. Few cities anywhere combine dramatic natural scenery, accessible outdoor experiences and a genuinely vibrant urban culture in quite the same way.

A city shaped by its landscape

What immediately sets Cape Town apart is its setting. Table Mountain dominates the skyline, while the Atlantic Ocean frames the city’s western edge. This creates a backdrop that constantly shifts with light, weather and season – something visitors quickly notice even during a short stay.

From the beaches of Camps Bay and Clifton to the rugged cliffs of the Cape Peninsula, the natural environment isn’t just nearby – it’s part of the city itself.

Experiences that feel like multiple destinations in one

One of Cape Town's biggest strengths as a travel destination is how much variety it offers within a relatively small radius.

In a single trip, travellers can:

• Take the cableway or hike up Table Mountain or Lion’s Head
• Explore the colourful streets of Bo-Kaap
• Spend time at the V&A Waterfront
• Drive Chapman’s Peak for one of the world’s most scenic coastal routes
• Visit Boulders Beach and its resident penguin colony
• Head into the Cape Winelands for tastings in Stellenbosch or Franschhoek

It’s this density of experiences that makes Cape Town feel less like a single city and more like a collection of destinations layered into one.

More than just scenery

While the landscapes often dominate the headlines, Cape Town's appeal goes well beyond its views. The city has a strong café culture, an evolving food scene, and a growing reputation for design, art and local storytelling.

Neighbourhoods like Woodstock and the City Bowl continue to evolve, while coastal areas maintain a relaxed, outdoors-focused lifestyle that defines much of daily life here.

Why this ranking matters

Unlike many travel awards driven by panels or industry experts, this ranking is based on how locals perceive their own city. That adds an interesting layer – it reflects lived experience rather than curated marketing.

When residents overwhelmingly describe their own city as beautiful, it often signals something deeper: pride, connection and a sense of place that visitors can feel when they arrive.

A reminder for travellers

Cape Town consistently appears in global travel rankings, but lists like this reinforce something most visitors already discover quickly on the ground – the city doesn’t rely on hype. It delivers through contrast: mountains and ocean, urban energy and open space, modern lifestyle and natural wilderness.

For anyone planning a trip to South Africa or building a wider travel itinerary through the continent, Cape Town remains one of the most rewarding starting points.

It’s not just a beautiful city by ranking. It’s a city that continues to justify the reputation every time you experience it firsthand.

 

Subscribe for updates:

Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly updates, border info, road alerts, and travel inspiration for Southern Africa 

Cape Town named one of the World’s Best Cities for Culture and Arts in 2026

Cape Town’s cultural scene has earned global recognition once again, with Time Out naming the Mother City the fifth best city in the world for culture and arts in 2026.

For travellers, the ranking reinforces something that becomes obvious shortly after arriving in Cape Town: this is not just a destination of mountains, beaches and wine estates. It is one of the world’s most exciting creative cities, where art, music, theatre, food and history constantly overlap.

According to Time Out, Cape Town’s culture scene is “deeply layered and always evolving” — a description that feels especially accurate right now. Across the city, visitors encounter creativity almost everywhere, from contemporary African art museums and sculpture gardens to independent cinemas, jazz clubs, theatres and monthly street-based art events.

At the heart of Cape Town’s art scene is Zeitz MOCAA at the V&A Waterfront, widely regarded as one of Africa’s leading contemporary art museums. Nearby, the Norval Foundation combines galleries, sculpture gardens and mountain scenery into one of the country’s most impressive cultural spaces.

The city’s creative energy extends far beyond museums. In the city centre, travellers can watch the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra perform at City Hall, while theatres such as Artscape and the Baxter continue to anchor Cape Town’s live performance scene with comedy, drama and musical productions throughout the year.

For film lovers, The Labia Theatre remains one of the city’s most iconic cultural institutions. The independent cinema has become a Cape Town classic, known for arthouse films, cult screenings and its old-world atmosphere.

Festivals, live music and First Thursdays

Time Out’s survey found that locals rated Cape Town especially highly for festivals and live music — two experiences that travellers can easily build into a visit.

The city hosts a packed annual events calendar, with the Investec Cape Town Art Fair drawing galleries, collectors and artists from around the world every February. Meanwhile, First Thursdays transforms the city centre into a large-scale monthly cultural event, with galleries, bars, restaurants and creative spaces opening their doors late into the evening.

Cape Town’s music scene is equally diverse. Travellers can experience everything from jazz and Afro-fusion to electronic music, indie performances and open-air concerts across the city.

A big year for art in Cape Town

According to Time Out, 2026 is shaping up to be a particularly strong year for Cape Town’s creative sector.

New attractions and installations are adding fresh momentum to the city’s already dynamic arts landscape. Recent highlights include the immersive digital art experience LUMENOCITY as well as Veuve Clicquot’s “Emotions of the Sun” Magnum Photos collaboration.

The ranking also reflects strong local confidence in the city’s cultural offering. In Time Out’s survey, Cape Town achieved an impressive 84% approval rating for its arts and culture scene, while also scoring well for affordability compared to many global cultural capitals.

For travellers, that combination is part of Cape Town’s appeal. Few cities offer this level of scenery, creativity, nightlife, heritage and cultural diversity at a similarly accessible price point.

More than a scenic destination

Cape Town’s latest global recognition highlights how the city continues evolving beyond its traditional image as a scenic tourism destination.

Today, travellers increasingly visit Cape Town not only for Table Mountain, beaches or safari extensions, but also for its galleries, live music, theatre, design, architecture and creative neighbourhoods.

For visitors looking for a city break that combines culture, food, nightlife, nature and history in one destination, Cape Town is becoming increasingly difficult to beat.

 

Subscribe for updates:

Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly updates, border info, road alerts, and travel inspiration for Southern Africa. 

Durban listed among the Best Places to Travel in 2026

Great news for South African tourism: Durban has earned a spot on Time Out’s prestigious list of The Best Places to Travel in 2026, ranking an impressive 14th worldwide. For travellers planning their next adventure, this recognition puts South Africa’s laid-back coastal city firmly on the global must-visit map.

A new resort puts Durban in the spotlight
A key factor behind the ranking is the upcoming Club Med “Beach and Safari” resort, scheduled to open in July 2026. The new development is expected to combine Indian Ocean beach access with safari and cultural experiences linked to the Zulu Kingdom, strengthening Durban's appeal to international visitors.

Beaches, surf and outdoor access
Time Out notes Durban's warm Indian Ocean waters, popular surf breaks and long stretches of golden beaches. The city also provides easy access to some of KwaZulu-Natal’s most varied landscapes, including hiking in the Drakensberg, Big Five safari reserves, wetlands and the Midlands Meander arts route.

A distinctive food culture
Durban's culinary scene remains one of its strongest attractions. The city’s large Indian community has shaped a diverse food culture, from street food classics like bunny chow to spice markets and beachfront dining.

A practical alternative to South Africa’s classic stops
While many visitors focus on Cape Town or Kruger National Park, the recognition from Time Out reflects Durban's growing visibility as a well-rounded destination combining coast, culture, food and access to nature - all within one region.

Also Note: Just behind Durban on Time Out’s 2026 ranking is St Helena, named 15th. This remote island offers dramatic landscapes, unique wildlife, and rich history, including Napoleon’s exile. With St Helena Airport having reclaimed its Category 6 classification, regular air service has resumed, keeping the island as accessible as it was before the temporary downgrade—ideal for travellers seeking a combination of history, nature, and tranquillity.

Here is the complete list of the best places to visit in 2026:

1. The Canadian Rockies
2. Rabat, Morocco
3. Algodões, Bahia, Brazil
4. Hamburg, Germany
5. Aoraki/Mount Cook, New Zealand
6. Mendoza, Argentina
7. Cirencester, England
8. Central Vietnam
9. Nepal
10. Favignana, Sicily
11. Gothenburg, Sweden
12. Oaxaca, Mexico
13. Rottnest Island, Australia
14. Durban, South Africa
15. St Helena Island
16. Barra dos Remédios, Ceará, Brazil
17. Prince Edward County, Canada
18. Norfolk Island, South Pacific
19. Hong Kong 

 

Subscribe for updates:

Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly updates, border info, road alerts, and travel inspiration for Southern Africa. 

One of Cape Town's streets ranked among the world’s coolest in 2025!

One of Cape Town’s streets, Kloof Street, has been named the 22nd coolest street in the world on Time Out’s 31 Coolest Streets in the World 2025 list. The annual ranking highlights streets that combine a vibrant mix of dining, shopping, culture, and nightlife, attracting both locals and visitors.

Why Kloof Street made the list
Time Out describes Kloof Street as a leafy urban thoroughfare at the base of Table Mountain, blending historic architecture with contemporary shops, restaurants, and cafés. Its mix of established favourites and newer businesses gives the street a dynamic, evolving character.

Selene Brophy, Time Out Cape Town’s City Editor, notes that Kloof Street is like “Long Street’s more refined sibling,” maintaining its Cape Town identity while continually adapting to trends.

Things to do on Kloof Street
Visitors walking along Kloof Street, from the CBD up toward Tamboerskloof, can enjoy:

• Kloof Konbini – Japanese-inspired street food and snacks.
• Blondie – A casual Mediterranean restaurant.
• Vadivelu – South Indian cuisine known for its regional flavours.
• Kloof Street House – A Victorian-era building converted into a restaurant with a unique interior.
• Evening options – Bars and cocktail spots such as One Park, Van Hunks, Asoka, and Rick’s Café.

What the recognition means
Being listed among the world’s coolest streets highlights Cape Town’s urban appeal in addition to its natural attractions. The ranking brings attention to local businesses and supports tourism by showcasing the city’s combination of heritage, food culture, and social spaces.

Tips for visitors

• Walk the street to explore both historic buildings and modern businesses.
• Plan meals ahead, especially at popular restaurants.
• Explore local boutiques for unique shopping finds.
• Use e-hailing services for safe travel at night.

Kloof Street’s appearance on Time Out’s 2025 list reinforces Cape Town’s growing reputation as a destination that blends culture, cuisine, and urban vibrancy in one accessible, walkable street.

 

Subscribe for updates:

Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly updates, border info, road alerts, and travel inspiration for Southern Africa. 

Cape Town named One of the World’s Happiest Cities by Time Out!

Cape Town in South Africa has been ranked the third happiest city in the world in Time Out’s 2025 “Happiest Cities” survey, based on the opinions of over 18,000 locals worldwide. According to the well-known lifestyle publication, 97% of Cape Town residents said that their city makes them happy, earning the Mother City a top-three spot behind Abu Dhabi and Medellín.
The ranking highlights cities where people find joy in everyday life, community, and connection. Cape Town stood out for its natural beauty, cultural diversity, food scene, and outdoor lifestyle. Locals cited easy access to nature, vibrant neighborhoods, and a growing sense of optimism as key reasons why they love living there.

Time Out noted that happiness in Cape Town has been rising in recent years, reflecting the city’s unique mix of creativity, resilience, and sunshine. From mountain trails to ocean views, street markets to music festivals, Cape Town continues to offer experiences that lift the spirit - for both locals and visitors.

With its combination of natural wonder, cultural energy, and genuine warmth, Cape Town's recognition as one of the world’s happiest cities is yet another reason to visit South Africa's most beloved destination.

 

Subscribe for updates:

Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly updates, border info, road alerts, and travel inspiration for Southern Africa.  

Linden in Johannesburg named one of the world’s coolest neighbourhoods in 2025

Time Out has released its annual list of the Coolest Neighbourhoods in the World, and Linden in Johannesburg has made it into the Top 20! The leafy suburb ranked #17 on the 2025 list, highlighting its growing reputation as a hub of food, culture, and creativity.

According to Time Out, the ranking is based on the best places to eat and drink, the cultural buzz, a strong sense of community, nightlife, and overall liveability. Linden stood out for its relaxed atmosphere, independent cafés, boutique shops, art spaces, and a thriving local-first spirit that makes it one of Joburg's most authentic destinations.

Popular spots in Linden include coffee hangouts like The Whippet and Yield Coffee Bar, restaurants such as Brian Lara Rum Eatery and Gaucho, and vibrant venues like Waiting for George. Visitors can also explore artisan shops, vintage boutiques, and art bars such as Joons Art Bar, or time a trip with the Linden Market, held quarterly at the Johannesburg Botanical Gardens.

Linden's recognition as one of the world’s coolest neighbourhoods puts Johannesburg firmly on the international travel map, offering tourists a different side of the city away from its busier districts. With its mix of charm, creativity, and community, Linden is now officially one of Joburg's must-visit areas. 

 

Subscribe for updates:

Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly updates, border info, road alerts, and travel inspiration for Southern Africa. 

Cape Town named one of the world’s best cities for Gen Z in 2025!

Every year, Time Out publishes its highly respected list of the world’s greatest cities, based on an in-depth survey of over 18,500 locals. Participants are asked to rate their cities on nightlife, food, culture, happiness, affordability, access to green spaces, and walkability. These local insights, combined with votes from Time Out’s panel of global experts, result in a definitive guide to the best cities to live in and visit right now.

For 2025, Time Out added a fresh twist — spotlighting Gen Z voices. Using the same data as its Best Cities survey but filtering results to residents aged under 30, the magazine created the World’s Best Cities for Gen Z ranking. This list highlights the destinations where young people truly thrive, based on factors such as affordability, inclusivity, creativity, and overall quality of life.

Cape Town shines in Gen Z ranking:

Cape Town in South Africa claimed the #3 spot worldwide in the 2025 list, earning praise for its unique blend of natural beauty, vibrant cultural scene, and accessible nightlife.

According to Time Out’s findings:

• 82% of Cape Town's Gen Z residents say they are happy living in the city.
• 71% describe it as “beautiful.”
• 76% say nights out for drinks are affordable.
• 62% consider it an “exciting place to live.”

With its dramatic mountain backdrop, iconic beaches, and thriving food and arts scene, Cape Town has become a magnet for young creatives, entrepreneurs, and adventure seekers.

The top 3 cities for Gen Z in 2025

Bangkok, Thailand - Topping the list, Bangkok impressed with its affordability (71%), friendliness, and vibrant street life. A remarkable 84% of Gen Z residents say they’re happy living there.

Melbourne, Australia - Ranked second, Melbourne stood out for its diversity (77% describe it as inclusive), world-class arts and culture scene (96% praise it), and outstanding quality of life (91%).

Cape Town, South Africa - Securing third place, Cape Town scored high for happiness, affordability, and natural beauty, making it one of the most desirable cities for young people globally.

Other destinations rounding out the top 10 include New York (#4), Copenhagen (#5), Barcelona (#6), Edinburgh (#7), Mexico City (#8), London (#9), and Shanghai (#10).

Cape Town’s Chinchilla Rooftop Café & Bar ranked among the world’s best by Time Out!

Time Out, the globally renowned culture and entertainment magazine, has unveiled its list of the 20 best rooftop bars in the world - and Cape Town’s Chinchilla Rooftop Café & Bar has secured a top spot! Ranked 6th worldwide, this stylish rooftop gem in Camps Bay is celebrated for its breathtaking ocean views and vibrant atmosphere.
Situated atop the Promenade Building on Victoria Road, the Chinchilla Rooftop Café & Bar offers a relaxed yet sophisticated setting, perfect for sundowners overlooking Camps Bay Beach. Despite being just two stories high, the panoramic views are nothing short of spectacular, rivaling those from towering skyscrapers.
Adding to the experience, live DJs set the mood from 16:00 to 20:000 on weekends, making the Chinchilla Rooftop Café & Bar a must-visit spot for both locals and tourists seeking Cape Town’s best rooftop bar experience.

Looking for the perfect rooftop bar in Cape Town? Chinchilla Rooftop Café & Bar delivers stunning sunsets, laid-back luxury, and world-class cocktails.

Time Out’s 2025 Best Food Cities: Cape Town ranks among the world’s top culinary destinations!

Time Out, the renowned global culture, entertainment, and events magazine, has released its highly anticipated ranking of the world's 20 best cities for food in 2025. To compile this list, Time Out surveyed thousands of locals worldwide, asking them to rate their city’s food scene based on 18 key factors—including quality, affordability, and unique attributes like family-friendliness and culinary innovation.
Each city's ranking was determined by a combination of local ratings and expert insights from Time Out’s panel of food critics, editors, and chefs. To ensure a globally diverse selection, only the highest-scoring city from each country was included in the final list.

Crowned the best city in the world for 2025, Cape Town in South Africa also secured 4th place on Time Out’s list of the top 20 cities for food right now. The Mother City is celebrated for its diverse and flavor-packed food scene, influenced by culinary traditions from Asia, Europe, and across Africa. Whether you're craving gourmet fine dining or budget-friendly street food, Cape Town offers something for everyone.

There’s nowhere that better illustrates this than Time Out Market Cape Town, where all the tastes of the city are brought together under one roof. Bree Street, or ‘Gourmet Boulevard’, is the city’s dining thoroughfare, with Boma and Iron Steak firm favourites. And you can’t visit Cape Town without tucking into some seafood – the city might even rival London with its bountiful fish and chips offering. [src.]

According to Time Out, the overall best city for food in 2025 is New Orleans, USA, followed by Bangkok, Thailand in second place and Medellín, Colombia in third.

With such an exciting lineup of food destinations, 2025 is shaping up to be a year full of incredible culinary adventures!

Cape Town crowned Best City in the World for 2025 by Time Out!

Time Out, the global culture, entertainment, and events magazine, has unveiled its annual ranking of the world's best cities. For the 2025 edition, over 18,500 locals shared their thoughts on their hometowns, rating everything from food and nightlife to safety and overall livability. These local insights were combined with expertise from Time Out’s global network of city editors. After analyzing the data, the magazine revealed its list of the 50 best cities on the planet for 2025.

Topping the list is Cape Town, South Africa, which earned glowing reviews across the board. An impressive 97% of residents said the city makes them happy, 95% praised its vibrant food scene, and 82% celebrated its breathtaking beauty.

"Where else in the world can you hang out with a colony of African penguins, taste some of the world’s finest wines, stroll along Blue Flag beaches, enjoy stunning views from atop one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature, and sample some of the most eclectic nightlife and vibes in the world… all in one day? That’s our Cape Town." [src.]

Time Out’s 50 best cities in the world 2025:

1. Cape Town, South Africa
2. Bangkok, Thailand
3. New York, USA
4. Melbourne, Australia
5. London, UK
6. New Orleans, USA
7. Mexico City, Mexico
8. Porto, Portugal
9. Shanghai, China
10. Copenhagen, Denmark
11. Chicago, USA
12. Lisbon, Portugal
13. Edinburgh, UK
14. Hong Kong
15. Sydney, Australia
16. Amsterdam, Netherlands
17. Barcelona, Spain
18. Seville, Spain
19. Paris, France
20. Medellín, Columbia
21. Hanoi, Vietnam
22. Madrid, Spain
23. Berlin, Germany
24. Dubai, UAE
25. Singapore
26. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
27. Beijing, China
28. Chiang Mai, Thailand
29. Jakarta, Indonesia
30. Vienna, Austria
31. Tokyo, Japan
32. Marrakech, Morocco
33. Perth, Australia
34. Brighton, UK
35. Prague, Czech Republic
36. Glasgow, UK
37. Brisbane, Australia
38. Marseille, France
39. Budapest, Hungary
40. Los Angeles, USA
41. Lagos, Nigeria
42. Seoul, South Korea
43. Valencia, Spain
44. Montreal, Canada
45. Bilbao, Spain
46. Abu Dhabi, UAE
47. Belfast, UK
48. Bristol, UK
49. Mumbai, India
50. Warsaw, Poland

Cape Town steakhouse ranked among the world’s best!

Time Out, the renowned global magazine for culture, entertainment, and events, recently surveyed its network of editors and international writers about their favourite spots for a steak in their city. Among the standout recommendations, Iron Steak and Bar in Cape Town earned the impressive title of the sixth best steak restaurant in the world. Located on Bree Street, the heart of the city’s culinary scene, Iron Steak and Bar is celebrated for its perfectly cooked steaks, prepared on the distinctive Spanish Vulcano Grez grill. The menu features a range of options, from premium cuts to the exceptional flat iron steak. Congratulations!

Time Out's 10 best steaks in the world:

1. El Toro, Agadir (Morocco)
2. Klaw, Miami (USA)
3. Adega Solar Minhoto, Lisbon (Portugal)
4. La Cabrera, Buenos Aires (Argentina)
5. Clover Grill, Paris (France)
6. Iron Steak and Bar, Cape Town (South Africa)
7. Alfie’s, Sydney (Australia)
8. Fireside, Hong Kong
9. Lana, Madrid (Spain)
10. Le Relais de Venise l’Entrecôte, London (UK)

This city in South Africa was named the world's 2nd best city for food 2024!

Time Out, a global culture, entertainment and events magazine, recently asked thousands of locals all about eating out in their cities to rank the world’s culinary capitals in 2024. The city-dwellers were quizzed on their city’s must-visit restaurants, must-eat dishes and best-value bites and were also asked to rate their city’s food scene on both its quality and affordability. To create and rank the final list, Time Out narrowed down the selection by excluding cities with lower overall scores, and including only the highest-scoring city for each country. In a next step, Time Out asked its global network of writers and editors to for the lowdown on what makes their city an exciting dining destination in 2024, and to recommend their favourite places to eat right now. According to the magazine's list of "The world’s 20 best cities for food right now", Johannesburg in South Africa is currently the second best city for food in the world. Here is what Time Out writes about Joburg: "[...] From Ethiopian cafes in Little Addis to Nigerian and West African eats in the south of the city, you can eat your way across the continent here – though the majority of locals we surveyed recommended the city’s traditional South African delicacies, like the Sowetan kota sandwich, bunny chow and mala mogodu. [...]" [src.]

South African food writer Thando Moleketi-Williams, a local from Johannesburg, recommends the following foodie spots:

• Mamakashaka & Friends
  5 De Beer Street, Braamfontein, Johannesburg 2000
• ARTIVIST
  7 Reserve Street, Braamfontein, Johannesburg 2001
• UntitledBasement
  7 Reserve Street, Braamfontein, Johannesburg 2001

The 20 world’s best cities for food 2024:

1. Naples, Italy
2. Johannesburg, South Africa
3. Lima, Peru
4. Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
5. Beijing, China
6. Bangkok, Thailand
7. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
8. Mumbai, India
9. Dubai, United Arab Emirates
10. Portland, Oregon, USA
11. Liverpool, England, UK
12. Medellin, Colombia
13. Seville, Spain
14. Porto, Portugal
15. Marrakech, Marocco
16. Lyon, France
17. Sydney, Austrlia
18. Montreal, Canada
19. Osaka, Japan
20. Copenhagen, Denmark

Chef picks

• Los Angeles, California, USA
  Picked by chef Tim Cushman of Ms. Clucks Deluxe at Time Out Market Boston
• Seoul, South Korea
  Picked by Chef Reif Othman of REIF at Time Out Market Dubai
• Madrid, Spain
  Picked by Chef Michael Ayoub of Fornino at Time Out Market New York

Cape Town named Time Out’s 2nd Best City in the World for 2024!

Each year, global culture, entertainment and events magazine Time Out is asking thousands of locals to get a unique insight into the reality of living in the world’s greatest cities right now. This year, city-dwellers were asked about the quality and affordability of the food, culture and nightlife scenes in their city and how their city makes them feel, from happiness to romance. Survey respondents were also asked about which other city they would most like to live in. Time Out combined these insights with those of more than 100 well-travelled Time Out staff writers and editors from around the world. All these factors contributed to this ranking of Time Out’s Best Cities in the World for 2024.
According to the findings of the survey, Cape Town in South Africa is the second best city in the world 2024. Cape Town's culture scene is ranked highest in the world and the food scene is getting described as "exciting, diverse and vibrant". Time Out recommends to visit the District Six Museum and Robben Island, as well as the Bo-Kaap and the Investec Cape Town Art Fair, which is taking place each February. 

From the heights of Table Mountain to the stunning beaches on the coastline, it’s not hard to see why every single survey respondent said Cape Town was beautiful. [src.]

nb. The Time Out Group opened Africa's first and only "Time Out Market" at Cape Town's V&A Waterfront in November 2023. The market is a curated showcase of some of the best culinary (!) and cultural (!) experiences Cape Town has to offer.

Time Out’s 50 Best Cities in the World right now:

1. New York
2. Cape Town
3. Berlin
4. London
5. Madrid
6. Mexico City
7. Liverpool
8. Tokyo
9. Rome
10. Porto
11. Paris
12. Mumbai
13. Lisbon
14. Chicago
15. Manchester
16. São Paulo
17. Los Angeles
18. Amsterdam
19. Lagos
20. Melbourne
21. Naples
22. Singapore
23. Miami
24. Bangkok
25. Lima
26. Budapest
27. Beijing
28. Dubai
29. Montreal
30. Glasgow
31. Sydney
32. Buenos Aires
33. Kuala Lumpur
34. Manila
35. Seoul
36. Hanoi
37. San Francisco
38. Barcelona
39. Abu Dhabi
40. New Orleans
41. Philadelphia
42. Austin
43. Boston
44. Accra
45. Marseille
46. Taipei
47. Istanbul
48. Osaka
49. Hong Kong
50. Vancouver

Ranking: Cape Town voted one of the World's best cities for culture!

Global culture, entertainment and events magazine Time Out has asked some 21,000 city-dwellers to find out the world's best cities for art and culture right now. To rank the cities, Time Out surveyed urban-dwellers worldwide to take a deep dive into the cultural attractions of their chosen cities. Each city was then ranked according to how well locals scored the culture scene for quality and affordability. In a next step, Time Out editors narrowed down the selection by excluding cities with lower overall scores, and only including the highest-scoring city for each country to ensure the list reflects cultural cities globally. Overall winner of Time Out's first list of the world’s best cities for culture is Mexico City in Mexico, followed by Prague in the Czech Republic and Cape Town in South Africa. Time Out describes the Mother City as follows:

"Not to use the old ‘melting pot’ cliché, but Cape Town’s multiculturalism has lent the city an enviable offering when it comes to art and culture. From the lively annual Kaapse Klopse street parade, to cabaret and comedy at mega-institutions Baxter Theatre and Artscape, every corner of South Africa's sprawling seaside city has something to offer culture-seekers. ‘Vibey’ and ‘diverse’ were two of the most common terms locals used to describe Cape Town’s culture scene in our survey. Plus, the city ranked highest overall for the quality of its cultural offerings, nudged down a couple of places by their affordability (though on the affordable front, it’s worth noting the city still did pretty well overall)." src. 

Time Out's 10 world’s best cities for culture:

1. Mexico City in Mexico
2. Prague in the Czech Republic
3. Cape Town in South Africa
4. Buenos Aires in Argentina
5. Athens in Greece
6. Edinburgh in Scotland
7. Vienna in Austria
8. Madrid in Spain
9. Florence in Italy
10. Melbourne in Australia

This suburb in Cape Town is one of the 40 coolest neighbourhoods in the world!

Global culture, entertainment and events magazine Time Out has asked some 12,000 city-dwellers about the coolest spots in their city right now. And for the sixth year running, these views got combined with expert input from Time Out's global network of local editors and writers, to compile the sixth annual ranking of the world’s coolest neighbourhoods. According to the results of the 2023 edition, Sea Point in Cape Town is again one of the coolest neighbourhoods in the world. The hood, which is situated between Signal Hill and the Atlantic Ocean, a few kilometres to the west of Cape Town's Central Business District (CBD), was named 21st coolest neighbourhood in the world.

Photo by Karabo Mdluli on Unsplash

Time Out's contributor Richard Holmes, a travel, food and lifestyle writer based in Cape Town, describes the suburb as follows: "Sea Point has long been popular for the five-kilometre seaside promenade and public gardens that draw a refreshingly diverse crowd of locals and tourists. It’s a beautiful slice of Cape Town, but Sea Point is much more than the promenade – leave it behind and discover the vibrant multiculturalism of this 200-year-old suburb just west of downtown. It’s long been home to a Jewish community (the city’s only eruv is here), and today draws a happy mix of young professionals, pan-African migrants and digital nomads. Beyond the seaside promenade, the colourful Main Road is the heart of the action – a space for soaking up street boutiques, on-trend eateries and – of course – admiring the sparkling Atlantic Ocean winking back between the high-rises." [src.: Time Out]

Time Out’s Coolest Neighborhoods for 2023:

1. Laureles: Medellin, Colombia
2. Smithfield: Dublin, Ireland
3. Carabanchel: Madrid, Spain
4. Havnen: Copenhagen, Denmark
5. Sheung Wan: Hong Kong
6. Brunswick East: Melbourne, Australia
7. Mid-City, New Orleans
8. Isola: Milan, Italy
9. West: Amsterdam, Netherlands
10. Tomigaya: Tokyo, Japan
    

See the full list of 40 neighborhoods here. 

South Africa: Africa's first "Time Out Market" to open in Cape Town in November 2023!

The Time Out Group has annouced the opening date of the first "Time Out Market" in Africa. The "Time Out Market Cape Town" is set to open to the public on 17 November 2023 at 11:00 at the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town. "Time Out Market" is a food and cultural market that brings the best of the city together under one roof: its best chefs, drinks and cultural experiences. The "Time Out Market" in Cape Town will offer across 30 000 sq ft (2787m²) a curated mix of 13 home-grown culinary concepts spanning many cultural influences and flavours. In addition, it will also boast local wines, beers, cocktails, mocktails and soft drinks at three bars as well as art and cultural experiences from Capetonian and South African local talent.

Sieh dir diesen Beitrag auf Instagram an

Ein Beitrag geteilt von Time Out Market Cape Town (@timeoutmarketcapetown)

Time Out Market Cape Town:

• Address: Time Out Market Cape Town, Old Power Station Building, Building 19, Dock Rd, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town
• Parking: V&A Waterfront – the closest parking area is Portswood
• Opening times – from 17 November 2023:
• Sunday to Wednesday: 11:00 - 22:00
• Thursday to Saturday: 11:00 - 23:00

South Africa: Africa's first "Time Out Market" to open in Cape Town! [update]

update (27 August 2023): Time Out Market Cape Town has revealed further additions to its all-star culinary lineup of local chefs and restaurateurs. According to Time Out, Chef Peter Tempelhoff ‘s Ramenhead, Chefs Anwar Abdullatief and Yolani Abraham’s new concept Barakat, Matt Manning’s Culture Wine Bar, and Eugene Smith’s YARD pizza confirmed to join Time Out Market Cape Town.

The first Time Out Market in Africa is set to open in Cape Town, South Africa, in 2023. Time Out Market is the world’s first editorially curated food and cultural market, bringing a city’s best chefs, restaurateurs and unique cultural experiences together under one roof. The first Time Out Market opened in 2014 in a historic market hall in Lisbon (Portugal), quickly turning into the most popular destination in the city with 4m visitors a year. Since then, six Time Out Markets have been opened in Miami, New York, Boston, Chicago (USA), Montreal (Canada) and Dubai (UAE).

The new Time Out Market in Cape Town is expected to open towards the end of 2023 at the V&A Waterfront. It will have 14 kitchens, all run by different top chefs from Cape Town, and four bars with drinks co-curated by the city’s best bars. There’ll also be a stage for live performances. With approximately 750 seats, guests will be able to sit indoors or quayside.

This suburb in Cape Town is one of the world’s coolest neighbourhoods!

Global culture, entertainment and events magazine Time Out recently published the results of its annual Time Out Index. As part of the global survey, Time Out asked some 20,000 city-dwellers about the coolest spots in their city right now. And for the fifth year running, these views got combined with expert input from Time Out's global network of local editors and writers, to compile the fifth annual ranking of the world’s coolest neighbourhoods.

Photo by Kalden Swart on Unsplash

According to the 2022 edition of the Time Out Index, Sea Point in Cape Town, South Africa, is one of the 51 coolest neighbourhoods in the world. Ranked 38th, Cape Town's cool beachfront face is an oceanside ’burb heaving with quirky local businesses, and with enviable transport links to nearby beaches like Clifton and Camps Bay. Home to a mix of long-term families, young professionals, creative types and immigrant communities, Sea Point is known throughout Cape Town for the spine-tingling sunset views on its seven-mile Beach Road promenade, and for Regent Street: the neighbourhood’s main road and a hub of hot hotels and lip-smackingly diverse food options. [src. Time Out]

 Time Out's Top 10 Coolest Neighborhoods:

1. Colonia Americana - Guadalajara, Mexico
2. Cais do Sodré - Lisbon, Portugal
3. Wat Bo Village - Siem Reap, Cambodia
4. Ridgewood - New York City, USA
5. Mile End - Montreal, Canada
6. Barrio Logan - San Diego, USA
7. Shimokitazawa - Tokyo, Japan
8. Cliftonville - Margate, UK
9. Barrio Yungay - Santiago, Chile
10. Cours Julien - Marseille, France
28. Kilimani - Nairobi, Kenya
38. Sea Point - Cape Town, South Africa
50. FESTAC Town - Lagos, Nigeria

Time Out Index 2022: Cape Town named 11th best city in the world!

Global culture, entertainment and events magazine Time Out recently published the results of its annual Time Out Index. According to the 2022 edition of the ranking, Cape Town in South Africa is the 11th best city in the world. The Mother City was rated for its good food, culture, mountains, beaches and nightlife. Top city of the year is Edinburgh in Scottland, followed by Chicago in the US, Medellin in Colombia and Glasgow, also in Scotland. Congratulations!

Time Out's top 10 11 best cities:

1. Edinburgh, Scotland
2. Chicago, USA
3. Medellín, Colombia
4. Glasgow, Scotland
5. Amsterdam, Netherlands
6. Prague, Czech Republic
7. Marrakech, Morocco
8. Berlin, Germany
9. Montreal, Canada
10. Copenhagen, Denmark
11. Cape Town, South Africa

To compile the Index, Time Out has asked some 20,000 city-dwellers across the world as well as its network of global editors, to pinpoint what makes their hometown great. While things like community spirit and resilience were two of the most important factors last year, in 2022 Time Out added extra weight to the things that make cities great places to visit as well as to live.