101 Best Cities in the World for Food and Cuisine, #78 and #77

The newest installment of our 101 Best Food Cities Around the World, which is also part of our AWT MegaLists, of which, we are also publishing the 151 Most Beautiful Cities in the World.

78. Taos, Santa Fe, and Albuquerque, New Mexico

Taos, Santa Fe, and Albuquerque are vibrant cities in New Mexico that offer a rich culinary scene influenced by the region’s unique blend of Native American, Hispanic, and Southwestern flavors.

In Taos, a standout restaurant is The Love Apple, which features farm-to-table cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients. The menu offers creative dishes that highlight the flavors of the Southwest. For a taste of traditional New Mexican cuisine, head to Orlando’s New Mexican Café, where you can savor dishes like green chile stew, enchiladas, and carne adovada.

Santa Fe is renowned for its diverse dining options. The Compound is a highly regarded restaurant that combines contemporary American cuisine with New Mexican flavors, resulting in exquisite dishes that celebrate the region’s culinary heritage. Another popular choice is La Choza, where you can indulge in classic New Mexican dishes such as chiles rellenos, stacked enchiladas, and posole.

In Albuquerque, Frontier Restaurant is a local institution famous for its hearty breakfast burritos, green chile cheeseburgers, and cinnamon rolls. For a fine dining experience, visit Farm & Table, which showcases the best of New Mexican ingredients in dishes that highlight both traditional and innovative flavors.

To experience the local markets, head to the Santa Fe Farmers Market in Santa Fe, where you can find a wide range of fresh produce, artisanal products, and traditional New Mexican ingredients like red and green chiles. In Albuquerque, the Downtown Growers’ Market is a bustling hub for local farmers, artisans, and food vendors, offering a vibrant atmosphere and a variety of fresh produce and local specialties.

When it comes to bars, Santa Fe has the Coyote Café & Rooftop Cantina, offering a lively atmosphere, craft cocktails, and stunning views of the city. In Albuquerque, Marble Brewery is a popular spot, known for its craft beers and relaxed ambiance.

Traditional New Mexican food is a highlight of the region’s culinary scene. Green and red chiles are integral to many dishes, adding a spicy and flavorful kick. Don’t miss trying dishes like green chile stew, stacked enchiladas, sopaipillas (pillowy fried bread), and biscochitos (anise-flavored cookies).

Photo Credit to Catceeq, and Sean Quillen

77. Athens, Greece

Athens, the capital city of Greece, is renowned for its rich history, ancient landmarks, and mouthwatering cuisine. When it comes to restaurants, one standout is Varoulko, a Michelin-starred seafood restaurant located in the Mikrolimano area. It offers a delightful dining experience with fresh and expertly prepared seafood dishes. For a taste of traditional Greek cuisine with a modern twist, visit Funky Gourmet, which showcases innovative dishes made from locally sourced ingredients.

To experience the vibrant food scene in Athens, a visit to the markets is a must. The Central Market, also known as Varvakios Agora, is a bustling market where you can find a wide variety of fresh produce, spices, cheeses, olives, and traditional Greek delicacies. The Monastiraki Flea Market is another popular destination, offering a blend of vintage items, souvenirs, and local street food.

When it comes to bars, Athens has a lively nightlife scene. The Clumsies, located in the heart of the city, is consistently ranked among the world’s best bars, known for its creative cocktails and sophisticated atmosphere. For a rooftop experience with panoramic views of Athens, head to A for Athens Cocktail Bar, where you can enjoy a drink while taking in the breathtaking sights of the Acropolis.

No exploration of Athens’ food scene is complete without indulging in traditional Greek dishes. Start with a plate of mezze, which includes favorites like tzatziki, dolmades, and spanakopita. Moussaka, a flavorful dish made with layers of eggplant, ground meat, and béchamel sauce, is a must-try. Don’t forget to sample souvlaki, tender pieces of grilled meat or vegetables served on a skewer, and finish off with a sweet treat like loukoumades, deep-fried dough balls drizzled with honey and sprinkled with cinnamon.