Lebanese Cuisine Ranked First Among Arab Countries

The annual TasteAtlas ranking of the world’s top cuisines has once again drawn global attention to the richness and diversity of international food cultures. In its latest release, Arab cuisine achieved remarkable visibility, confirming its growing influence and competitiveness on the global culinary map.

According to TasteAtlas an internationally recognized platform that documents traditional dishes and authentic food experiences several Arab cuisines ranked among the top worldwide, reflecting increased global appreciation for their flavors, techniques, and cultural depth.

Arab Countries Ranked Highly in TasteAtlas

Among Arab countries, Lebanese cuisine emerged as the highest-ranked, earning widespread acclaim for its balance of freshness, flavor, and variety. It was followed by Palestinian, Egyptian, Tunisian, Syrian, Algerian, and Saudi cuisines, all securing advanced positions in the ranking.

TasteAtlas rankings are based on hundreds of thousands of verified reviews and ratings from food critics, travelers, and everyday diners worldwide. This data-driven methodology gives the rankings strong credibility and positions them as a trusted reference for global food culture.

Global Context: Where Arab Cuisine Stands Worldwide

On the global stage, Italian cuisine claimed the top position, continuing its long-standing dominance, followed by Greek, Peruvian, and Portuguese cuisines.

Asian and Mediterranean food traditions remained highly influential, with Japanese, Turkish, Chinese, and French cuisines consistently appearing in the top ten.

Within this competitive landscape, the strong performance of Arab cuisines highlights their ability to stand alongside some of the world’s most celebrated culinary traditions.

Why Arab Cuisine Excels in Global Rankings

1. Exceptional Diversity Across Regions

One of the key strengths of Arab cuisine is its remarkable diversity. From Levantine mezze and Gulf rice dishes to North African couscous and spice-rich stews, Arab food offers an extensive range of flavors, ingredients, and cooking styles. This variety appeals to global audiences seeking both comfort food and new culinary experiences.

2. Deep Cultural and Historical Roots

Arab cuisine is deeply connected to heritage, tradition, and local identity. Many dishes are prepared using time-honored recipes passed down through generations. This authenticity resonates strongly with food enthusiasts who value cultural storytelling through cuisine.

3. Global Expansion Through Tourism and Migration

The rise of tourism in Arab countries, combined with the global spread of Arab communities, has played a major role in introducing Arabic food to international markets.

Today, Arab restaurants can be found across Europe, North America, and Asia, often preserving traditional flavors while adapting presentation to modern dining trends.

4. Growing International Recognition

Platforms like TasteAtlas, along with food media and social networks, have helped amplify the visibility of Arab cuisine. Signature dishes such as hummus, shawarma, falafel, and kabsa have become globally recognizable, further strengthening the cuisine’s reputation.

Lebanese Cuisine: A Leading Example of Arab Culinary Success

Lebanese cuisine’s top ranking is widely attributed to its balance between health, flavor, and variety. It is particularly popular in major global cities due to its reliance on fresh vegetables, olive oil, herbs, and grilled proteins.

Some of the most iconic Lebanese dishes include:

• Tabbouleh, a refreshing salad made with parsley, bulgur, lemon juice, and olive oil
• Hummus and falafel, now global staples of Middle Eastern cuisine
• Shish taouk and kebabs, known for their simple marinades and charcoal grilling
• Traditional desserts, such as qatayef, which highlight the cuisine’s sweet heritage

The global success of Lebanese food has played a key role in elevating the overall perception of Arab cuisine worldwide.

The Future of Arab Cuisine on the Global Stage

The strong presence of Arab cuisines in the TasteAtlas global ranking reflects a broader evolution in how the world perceives Arabic food. By maintaining a balance between culinary heritage and innovation, Arab cuisine can further enhance its global standing.

As international interest grows, these rankings create new opportunities for cultural exchange, culinary tourism, and global recognition, positioning Arab cuisine as a source of pride and a powerful representation of authentic flavors rooted in history.