Greek Cuisine Ranks Second Worldwide in 2026 Awards

by · Greek City Times

Greek cuisine has secured second place among the world’s best food destinations for 2026, finishing just 0.20 points behind Italy in the prestigious Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards.

Greece received a score of 96.72 out of 100, narrowly trailing Italy, which topped the international ranking with 96.92 points. Portugal claimed third place with 96.57, followed by Japan in fourth with 96.00.

The results recognise Greece’s enduring culinary appeal, from traditional island tavernas and fresh seafood to regional specialities and the evolving restaurant scene in Athens.

Published on October 6, the 2026 rankings were compiled through the travel magazine’s annual Readers’ Choice Awards, with readers invited to rate their favourite destinations. Voting took place between April 1 and June 30.

Read more: Greece Pledges to Increase in Protected Origin Products

Greece’s culinary traditions attract international recognition

In its assessment, Condé Nast Traveller highlighted the diversity of Greek food, pointing to the country’s mainland, approximately 6,000 islands and islets, and the distinctive flavours found across its regions.

The magazine singled out the Cyclades, particularly Mykonos, for their traditional tavernas and regional menus, while also recognising Athens for its increasingly influential modern dining scene.

Classic Greek favourites, including souvlaki, tzatziki and olives, featured prominently in the publication’s description of the country’s culinary identity.

The ranking also recognised the experience of dining outdoors, where traditional food is often accompanied by views of the Aegean Sea, mountain landscapes and picturesque village settings.

Italy takes first place as Europe dominates the top three

Italy secured the top position with 96.92 points, supported by its internationally recognised regional specialities, including Neapolitan pizza, Sicilian cannoli and Milanese risotto.

Greece followed closely in second place, while Portugal completed an entirely European top three.

Japan ranked fourth with 96.00 points, while Turkey placed fifth with 95.65.

The remaining countries in the published top 10 were Indonesia, Spain, Thailand, Croatia and South Africa.

Another international distinction for Greece

The culinary recognition adds to an impressive year for Greece in the 2026 Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards.

In a separate category, Greece was named the world’s best country overall, receiving 98.14 points and finishing ahead of Japan and Italy.

The magazine also recognised eight Greek islands among its 20 best islands in Europe, with Naxos leading the list.

The latest results reinforce Greece’s international appeal as a destination where food, local traditions, regional produce and hospitality remain central to the travel experience.

Although Italy claimed the top position for cuisine, Greece’s second-place finish, separated by just two-tenths of a point, places Greek gastronomy among the world’s most highly rated culinary destinations.

Sources:
Condé Nast Traveller: The Best Countries for Food in the World 2026⁠

Stay connected to Greek City Times for Free on Google News
Click NOW
Stay updated with the latest news from Greece and around the world on greekcitytimes.com.
Contact our newsroom to share your updates, stories, photos, or videos. Follow GCT on WhatsApp, Google News and Apple News.

Related coverage

Advertising