American Food Vlogger Critiques India’s 12th Ranking for Cuisines

An American food vlogger, Ed Nathanson, has sparked widespread attention online after expressing his disbelief that India ranked 12th in the recent TasteAtlas list of the best cuisines worldwide. Nathanson, known for his food-related content, appeared visibly surprised and declared that India's position was an affront to its culinary legacy.

In a video shared across social media platforms, Nathanson stated, "They ranked INDIAN FOOD 12th in the world. TWELFTH. As the Snackmaster General, I’m calling for a full investigation. This is not just a bad list—it’s culinary disrespect." In his video, he elaborated on the immense variety and flavor of Indian cuisine, highlighting the country's rich array of spices and dishes.

Nathanson specifically questioned how Polish cuisine could rank higher than Indian food—despite acknowledging his own Polish heritage—underscoring his belief that Indian cuisine deserves a top spot among global offerings.

Reactions on social media have been largely supportive of Nathanson's stance. One user praised him, saying, "An American voting for Indian food???? Man’s got taste!!!" Another user offered to prepare smoked butter chicken for him, saying, "Send me your address, and I’ll personally come to cook smoked Butter chicken for you. I have a visa already." Various comments echoed his sentiments, with many expressing frustration over the ranking.

The TasteAtlas list, published for 2024-2025, ranks Greece as the top cuisine globally, followed by Italy, Mexico, and Spain. Polish cuisine nabbed the 11th spot, while American cuisine was placed right after India at 13th. The fact that India's culinary offerings did not make the top 10 has left many food enthusiasts puzzled.

Among the most popular Indian dishes listed by TasteAtlas are staples like roti, naan, and biryani, alongside well-known items such as dal, tandoori, and butter chicken. The list also mentions popular drinks in India, which include gin and tonic, lassi, and Indian filter coffee, showcasing the country’s diverse beverage offerings.

As debates surrounding food and rankings continue to evolve, Nathanson's comments serve as a reminder of the significant impact social media can have in highlighting cultural pride and culinary appreciation. The response from the public suggests a growing culinary nationalism and a desire for greater recognition of regional cuisines on international stages.