Best African Cities for Food in 2025: A culinary trip through Africa’s tastiest towns
Africa’s food scene is a vibrant tapestry of flavours, cultures, and histories, and its cities are leading the charge with diverse, affordable, and delicious dining experiences.
Based on Time Out’s global survey of thousands of locals, combined with insights from food experts, Waka Waka Doctor has curated a list of the best African cities for food in 2025.
From Cape Town’s iconic Gatsby to Lagos’s smoky suya, these culinary hubs are must-visits for food lovers.
Whether you’re planning a trip or seeking inspiration for your next meal, here’s your guide to Africa’s best food cities right now.
Best African Cities for food
1. Cape Town, South Africa – A Global Food Powerhouse (Ranked 4th Globally)
Cape Town’s food scene is a melting pot of African, Asian, and European influences, offering something for every palate and budget.
Known as the “Mother City,” it boasts a 95% approval rating for its dining scene, tying with Paris as the world’s top food city in Time Out’s survey.
From Bree Street’s “Gourmet Boulevard” to the Time Out Market Cape Town, the city delivers bold flavours and cultural diversity.
Seafood lovers will find fish and chips that rival London’s, while innovative eateries like Boma and Iron Steak keep things fresh.
Must-Try Dish: The Gatsby, a massive bread roll stuffed with hot chips, salad, and your choice of fillings. Head to Mariam’s Kitchen on the Foreshore for a messy, flavorful experience that’s quintessentially Cape Town.
Where to Eat:
- Time Out Market Cape Town: A one-stop shop for the city’s best flavours under one roof.
- Boma: A Bree Street favourite for vibrant, modern dishes.
- Iron Steak: Perfect for meat lovers seeking bold, hearty meals.
Why It Ranks: Capetonians are obsessed with their food, with 95% praising its quality and 78% calling it “delicious.” The city’s blend of affordability and diversity makes it a standout.
Pro Tip: Pair your meal with a local craft beer or a glass of South African wine for the full Cape Town experience.
2. Lagos, Nigeria – A Bold and Affordable Food Haven (Ranked 7th Globally)
Lagos is Nigeria’s culinary heartbeat, where food is culture, history, and celebration. From smoky street food to fine dining, the city’s diverse heritage shines through in dishes like party jollof rice and Afro-Brazilian Frejon.
Street stalls serve staples like Akara (bean fritters) and Boli (roasted plantain), while upscale spots like NOK by Alara and Slow Lagos elevate Nigerian flavours with modern twists.
With 88% of locals saying drinks are affordable and 68% praising restaurant affordability, Lagos is a budget-friendly foodie paradise.
Must-Try Dish: Suya, the city’s iconic peppery, smoky meat skewers. Glover Court Suya in Ikoyi is the go-to spot for this street food classic.
Where to Eat:
- ILÉ IYÁN: A Sunday must-visit for authentic Yoruba cuisine.
- NOK by Alara: Modern Nigerian dishes in a chic setting.
- Slow Lagos: Innovative takes on traditional flavours.
Why It Ranks: Lagos scores high for affordability and diversity, with 78% of locals calling the food “delicious” and 58% praising its health, tradition, and convenience.
Pro Tip: Visit a bustling buka joint for an authentic, affordable meal and soak in Lagos’s vibrant street food culture.
3. Marrakech, Morocco – A Flavourful Blend of Tradition and Innovation (Ranked 11th Globally)
Marrakech is a sensory feast, where Michelin-starred chefs and local cooks alike celebrate Morocco’s world-class ingredients.
From traditional riads to the trendy Gueliz district, the city offers everything from authentic tea rituals to farm-to-fork dining.
Farmers, with its dedicated organic farm, and Terra Mia Café, with French-Moroccan pastries, showcase Marrakech’s modern edge.
Locals describe the food as “traditional,” “diverse,” and “delicious,” and it’s one of the most affordable food cities on the list.
Must-Try Dish: Tangia, a slow-cooked lamb shank dish with smen (fermented butter) and spices, nicknamed “daughter of ashes.” Chez Lamine serves the original recipe.
Where to Eat:
- Dar Yacout: Experience a traditional Moroccan diffa (feast) in a stunning riad.
- Farmers: Farm-to-fork dining with punchy, organic dishes.
- Terra Mia Café: French-Moroccan pastries that rival Paris’s best.
Why It Ranks: Marrakech’s affordability (third-most affordable globally) and vibrant culinary scene make it a top contender. Locals love its traditional yet diverse offerings.
Pro Tip: Book a table in Gueliz for cutting-edge cuisine or join a food tour to explore the medina’s hidden gems.
4. Cairo, Egypt – A Hidden Gem for Food Lovers (Ranked 16th Globally)
Cairo’s food scene is a delicious secret waiting to be explored. Rooted in Egypt’s ancient culinary traditions, dishes like koshary and molokhia have been enjoyed for centuries.
The city’s fertile Nile backdrop fuels its vibrant food culture, and modern spots like Khufu’s offer creative spins on classics.
Food tours with Bellies En-Route dive into Downtown Cairo’s best eats, making it easy to discover the city’s diverse flavours. With 90% of locals rating dining highly, Cairo is a foodie’s dream.
Must-Try Dish: Koshary, a carb-heavy mix of macaroni, rice, lentils, chickpeas, spicy tomato sauce, and fried onions. Khufu’s serves a modern salad version with quail eggs.
Where to Eat:
- Khufu’s: Modern Egyptian cuisine with a view of the Great Pyramid.
- Bellies En-Route: Join a walking tour for the best of Downtown Cairo.
- Local bukas: Affordable street food stalls for authentic koshary and molokhia.
Why It Ranks: Cairo’s diverse food scene and affordability (82% of locals say drinks are cheap) make it a standout, though restaurant costs are slightly higher than others on this list.
Pro Tip: Pair your meal with a refreshing hibiscus tea (karkade) for a true taste of Egypt.
Why These Cities Stand Out
These places aren’t just about the Best African Cities for food—they’re about culture, affordability, and innovation.
Cape Town and Lagos lead with near-perfect approval ratings and budget-friendly dining, while Marrakech and Cairo blend ancient traditions with modern flair.
Each city offers a unique culinary identity, from street food stalls to fine dining, making them perfect for travellers and food enthusiasts like you.
