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Tom Kha G*i Tops the World’s Best Chicken Soups in 2025

According to TasteAtlas’ 2025 Ranking of the 10 Best Chicken Soups, Thailand’s Tom Kha G*i has claimed the top spot with a rating of 4.5, celebrated for its creamy coconut base and perfect balance of sour, spicy, and savory flavors. Sharing the same score, Romania’s Ciorba Radauteana follows closely behind, while Indonesia’s Soto Lamongan takes third place with a score of 4.4, solidifying Southeast Asia’s strong presence in global comfort food rankings.

Soto Lamongan, originating from East Java, stands out for its aromatic broth, turmeric color, and generous toppings a reflection of Indonesia’s rich culinary diversity. Meanwhile, Vietnam’s Chicken Pho, ranking seventh, further highlights how Southeast Asian chicken soups continue to capture hearts worldwide with their simplicity and depth of flavor.

The inclusion of multiple dishes from the region shows Southeast Asia’s growing influence on the global food scene. From Bangkok’s bustling street stalls serving steaming Tom Kha G*i to Lamongan’s warungs dishing up Soto Ayam, these soups represent more than just meals they are cultural symbols that bring warmth, tradition, and togetherness to every bowl.

Bangkok and Jakarta Shine Among the World’s Best Food Cities in 2025

According to TimeOut’s 2025 ranking, New Orleans, Bangkok, and Medellín have been named the top three cities in the world for food. Leading the list, New Orleans in the U.S. is celebrated for its rich blend of Creole, Cajun, and Southern flavors — a true melting pot of cultures that defines the city’s culinary identity. In second place, Bangkok, Thailand, continues to impress global travelers with its unbeatable street food culture and authentic dishes like pad thai, tom yum, and mango sticky rice. Medellín, Colombia, follows in third, gaining recognition for its creative approach to traditional Latin American flavors.

Southeast Asia’s strong culinary presence is undeniable in this year’s ranking. Bangkok secures its spot at the top tier, representing not just Thailand but the entire region’s dynamic and flavorful food scene. Meanwhile, Jakarta, Indonesia, rounds out the top 10, showcasing the depth of Indonesian cuisine — from spicy rendang and satay to comforting soto and nasi goreng. These cities are proving that Southeast Asian street food and local dining experiences can rival even the world’s most renowned restaurants.

Beyond Bangkok and Jakarta, this list reflects a growing global appreciation for cities that blend tradition and innovation in their food culture. Southeast Asia’s diverse culinary heritage continues to capture the world’s palate, reaffirming the region’s reputation as a true food lover’s paradise. With local ingredients, bold flavors, and vibrant street food scenes, cities like Bangkok and Jakarta are not just serving meals — they’re offering unforgettable cultural experiences.