---
title: "Lima vs Europe: Time Out Names the World's Best Gastronomic Cities for 2026"
description: "Lima took first place in the ranking of the world's best gastronomic cities according to Time Out 2026. Four European capitals also made it into the top 10: London, Barcelona, Athens, and Lisbon. Find out which dishes and trends made these cities leaders in world cuisine! 🌍🍽️🍕"
date: 2026-06-09T12:39:07.000Z
lang: en
url: https://xab.info/en/posts/lima-vs-europe-time-out-names-the-worlds-best-gastronomic-cities-for-2026
tags: []
publisher: "XAB.info"
---

# Lima vs Europe: Time Out Names the World's Best Gastronomic Cities for 2026

![Chefs preparing traditional dishes in an authentic restaurant, symbolizing European gastronomy in Time Out's 2026 ranking](https://xab.info/media/2026/06/09/lime-protiv-evropy-time-out-nazval-luchshie-gastronomicheskie-goroda-mira-v-2026-godu/lime-protiv-evropy-time-out-nazval-luchshie-gastronomicheskie-goroda-mira-v-2026-godu-1.webp)

The gastronomic world has turned upside down: Time Out magazine has released its ranking of the best cities for foodies in 2026, and atop the podium is not a familiar European capital, but Lima — the capital of Peru. However, Europe did not stay on the sidelines, presenting four cities in the top 10: London, Barcelona, Athens, and Lisbon.

To compile the ranking, extensive work was carried out: more than 24,000 residents from 150 cities worldwide were surveyed. Respondents were asked about the quality and accessibility of restaurants, cafes, pubs, and bars, as well as what sets their city apart on the global gastronomic map. The final score was formed 70% from the opinions of local residents and 30% from the ratings of more than 100 Time Out editors and local experts.

### London: Variety vs. Affordability

London has once again confirmed its status as a culinary universe. The main advantage of the British capital is the incredible choice: from traditional pie and mash and bagels to Ethiopian vegan dishes and Danish smørrebrød sandwiches. According to the survey, 96% of respondents believe that dining out in London is "good" or "amazing," but only 42% consider it affordable.

Time Out experts note that new Italian establishments are currently having their moment in the city. The list of must-visit venues includes Osteria Vibrato (famous for its creamy white risotto), Auguste (Abruzzese skewers), and Martino (meatballs). For those who prefer a more democratic format, the trend of pizza in pubs is relevant: temporary residencies of brands like Dough Hands, Short Road, Hot Saint, and Little Earthquakes are appearing throughout the city.

### Barcelona: Return to Roots

In 2025, the Spanish leader was Madrid, but in 2026, Barcelona became the culinary capital of the country. The city scored highly: 82% of locals highly rate the quality of the local gastronomic scene. Although Barcelona is traditionally famous for its large number of Michelin-starred restaurants, Time Out experts are most delighted by the return to traditional Catalan cuisine.

Locals and visitors can try capipota — a jelly-like dish made from calf's head and trotters, warm up with slow-cooked sofregits and stews. And, of course, fall in love with bombas — fried potato balls, for which Barcelona is most famous.

### Athens: From Taverns to Fine Dining

The Greek capital received almost equally high ratings from both residents and experts: 78% of the former and 80% of the latter named Athens one of the most interesting cities for food today. Locals primarily recommend visiting family taverns and cafes, while experts focus on fine dining establishments.

Among the top venues is the country's only two-Michelin-star restaurant, Delta, as well as new addresses like Kuchisabishii, Thirio, and Zigoala.

### Lisbon: The Era of Neo-Tasca

Lisboners love dining out: 86% highly rate the local gastronomic scene, and 63% believe it is affordable. Throughout the city, "neo-tascas" are gaining popularity — authentic, welcoming neighborhood restaurants with impeccable technique and a creative menu based on Portuguese traditions. Among the best are O Velho Eurico, Polémico, Vida de Tasca, and Gancho by Louise Bourrat.

If Lisboners themselves love local bakeries and dessert shops, experts advise heading to trendy sandwich shops like Tosta and Bibs.

"Cuisines from Lima to Lisbon in 2026 are truly playing with food, experimenting with unexpected flavor combinations and taking classic dishes to a new level," says Grace Bird, Travel Editor at Time Out. She notes that locals are moving away from the trend of small plates and sourdough bread, filling neo-taverns and queuing for the best slice of pizza. And the most wonderful thing about this ranking is that there is something for every taste here — from budget-conscious visitors to recognized bon vivants.