India’s Culinary Excellence: Thirteenth Best in the World in TasteAtlas 2025, Surpassing Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia

Published on December 20, 2025

In a major milestone for Indian cuisine, India has been ranked 13th globally in the 2025 TasteAtlas food rankings, moving up one position from the previous year. This significant rise places Indian cuisine ahead of renowned Southeast Asian culinary giants such as Vietnam, Thailand, and Malaysia, highlighting the growing global appreciation for India’s diverse and rich culinary offerings. The ranking, which reflects the popularity and authenticity of world cuisines, is based on 590,228 valid ratings for nearly 19,000 dishes from around the globe, according to TasteAtlas’s database.

The rise of Indian cuisine in global rankings speaks volumes about the country’s culinary influence and growing recognition on the international stage. While India has long been celebrated for its spices and complex flavors, its ascension in the rankings shows just how important the country has become in the global food conversation.

The Secret Ingredients Behind India’s Rise in Global Cuisine Rankings

Indian cuisine’s ranking comes as no surprise when you delve into the vast array of regional dishes that make up this culinary powerhouse. The country’s food is a celebration of spices, herbs, and flavors that have been refined over thousands of years, resulting in a menu that ranges from hearty stews and curries to delicate breads and sweets.

According to TasteAtlas, Indian food surpassed Vietnamese, Thai, and Malaysian cuisines due to its diversity and wide appeal across the world. The list of must-try dishes in India is extensive, with butter garlic naan, Amritsari kulcha (a stuffed flatbread), Garam masala (spice blend), and Muthia (chickpea flour dish) leading the charge. Indian cuisine’s ability to blend rich traditions with regional creativity makes it a culinary force on the world stage.

India’s diverse cultural influences and geographic variety have allowed for a complex web of flavors that vary widely between states. From tandoori cooking in the north to coastal seafood in the south, the country’s traditional food culture provides something for every palate.

Top Indian Dishes Recommended by TasteAtlas: Must-Try Meals for Every Food Lover

TasteAtlas has highlighted several iconic Indian dishes that travelers and food enthusiasts should not miss. Among the top dishes are:

• Butter Garlic Naan: A fluffy, warm flatbread slathered with butter and garlic, perfect for dipping into rich curries.
• Amritsari Kulcha: A popular stuffed flatbread from the region of Amritsar, filled with a delicious mix of spices and vegetables.
• Garam Masala: A staple spice blend used to add depth and complexity to Indian stews and curries.
• Parotta: A layered flatbread often made from refined flour, eggs, and oil, best enjoyed with curries or vegetable side dishes.
• Muthia: A steamed or fried snack made with chickpea flour, spices, and fenugreek, representing India’s rich snack culture.

Indian cuisine also stands out due to its regional specialties, with different parts of the country offering unique dishes. For instance, biryani is a southern favorite, while the Punjabi region is known for its makki di roti (cornmeal flatbread) and sarson da saag (mustard greens).

Rising Above Southeast Asian Giants: India’s Global Appeal

In Asia, India’s cuisine has only Japan, China, and Indonesia ahead of it in the TasteAtlas rankings, signaling that Indian food is fast becoming one of the most influential gastronomic cultures worldwide. Despite the popularity of Vietnamese, Thai, and Malaysian dishes, India’s rich heritage and flavor complexity have garnered attention and respect in global culinary circles.

TasteAtlas, known for compiling food rankings from culinary experts and enthusiastic foodies, has noted that Indian food is not just confined to traditional curries or spicy dishes. Its regional diversity continues to fascinate food lovers worldwide. Each region of India offers a different flavor profile, from mildly spiced southern dishes to bold and aromatic north Indian curries.

The Influence of Indian Cuisine on Global Food Culture

Indian cuisine’s influence stretches far beyond India’s borders. Over the years, the cuisine has become an integral part of global food culture, especially in cities like London, New York, and Toronto, where Indian restaurants have become iconic dining spots. The explosion of Indian street food has also helped spread the cuisine’s popularity, with chaat, samosas, and pani puri becoming common snacks in global food markets.

The growing trend of fusion cuisine also sees Indian influences creeping into international menus, with dishes like butter chicken pizza and spiced-up burgers becoming increasingly popular.

Indian Cuisine in the Global Spotlight

India’s rise in the TasteAtlas rankings reflects the increasing global appreciation for authentic Indian food. While it has long been popular in diaspora communities, it is now being embraced by mainstream foodies and Michelin-star chefs who are incorporating Indian techniques and spices into their creations. The growth of Indian food festivals and the popularity of Indian cooking shows have further elevated the profile of Indian cuisine.

Conclusion: The Future of Indian Cuisine in the Global Food Scene

India’s culinary landscape continues to evolve, pushing the boundaries of traditional food while embracing new influences. As Indian cuisine climbs the ranks of global culinary recognition, it will likely continue to shape and influence the international food scene for years to come.

With its bold spices, rich flavors, and deep culinary heritage, India’s food has earned its rightful place among the world’s top cuisines. For food lovers eager to experience the best of Indian cooking, the journey has only just begun. Whether you’re enjoying a traditional meal in Mumbai or sampling Indian fusion at a restaurant near you, the world of Indian cuisine is an ever‑expanding adventure full of surprises, tastes, and experiences that everyone should explore.