Overview

• Time Out published its 2025 ranking, naming Jimbōchō in Tokyo first, followed by Borgerhout (Antwerp), Barra Funda (São Paulo), Camberwell (London) and Avondale (Chicago).
• The Tokyo district earned top spot for a dense second-hand bookshop scene of roughly 130 stores along with retro cafés, coffee culture and much-loved curry houses.
• Camberwell placed fourth and highest in the UK, with reporting highlighting the South London Gallery, independent venues and a mix of Kurdish, Turkish and Xinjiang eateries.
• Local responses included pride in the recognition as well as online warnings that publicity can accelerate gentrification and raise costs for residents.
• Time Out says the list is built from local editor nominations and ranked on culture, community, livability, food, nightlife, street life and a sense of 'nowness,' with most entries new to this edition.