Must-try street foods
Street foods are a must-try for anyone looking to experience the vibrant and diverse flavors of a new city or culture. Whether it's a savory snack or a sweet treat, street foods are often unique to the region and offer a delicious and affordable way to sample local cuisine.
Advertisement
From the mouth-watering aroma of sizzling kebabs in Istanbul to the crispy and flavorful tacos in Mexico City, street foods are an essential part of the culinary experience in many cultures. In Thailand, the spicy and tangy flavors of Pad Thai served from a bustling street vendor's cart are a must-try for any food enthusiast. In India, the irresistible aroma of freshly fried samosas and pakoras will tempt your taste buds, while in Japan, the delicate and artfully crafted sushi rolls from a street-side stall are a delight for the senses. Whether you're wandering through the bustling markets of Morocco or strolling along the charming streets of Italy, be sure to indulge in the local street foods for a truly authentic taste of the destination. With a wide variety of options to choose from, street foods offer a convenient and delicious way to immerse yourself in the culinary traditions of a new place.
TacosView AllTacos - Mexican street food with tortillas, meat, and toppings.
PizzaView AllPizza - Delicious, cheesy, savory, and customizable.
Hot dogsView AllHot dogs - Sausage in a bun with condiments.
FalafelView AllFalafel - Deep-fried chickpea balls, popular in Middle Eastern cuisine.
Banh miView AllBanh mi - Vietnamese sandwich with various fillings on baguette.
EmpanadasView AllEmpanadas - Savory filled pastry popular in Latin American cuisine.
ArepasView AllArepas - Venezuelan cornmeal patties, filled with various ingredients.
CrepesView AllCrepes - Thin French pancakes with sweet or savory fillings.
SamosaView AllSamosa - Spiced potato-filled pastry popular in South Asian cuisine.
RamenView AllRamen - Japanese noodle soup with broth and toppings.
Must-try street foods
1.
Tacos
Tacos are a traditional Mexican dish consisting of a tortilla filled with various ingredients, such as meat, beans, cheese, and vegetables. The tortilla is typically folded or rolled around the fillings and can be served soft or crispy. Tacos are known for their versatility and can be customized to suit individual tastes, with a wide variety of fillings and toppings available. They are a popular street food in Mexico and have also gained widespread popularity in many other countries, often being served in restaurants and food trucks. Tacos are loved for their bold flavors and satisfying, handheld convenience.
Pros
Versatile- customizable
- delicious
Cons
Can be messy to eat- high in calories and sodium
- potential for foodborne illness
2.
Pizza
Pizza is a popular and versatile dish that originated in Italy. It consists of a round, flat base of dough topped with tomato sauce, cheese, and various other ingredients such as meats, vegetables, and herbs. The pizza is then baked in a hot oven, resulting in a crispy crust and melted cheese. It is a beloved comfort food enjoyed by people all over the world and can be customized to suit individual tastes. Whether enjoyed as a quick meal, a party snack, or a gourmet creation, pizza is a timeless and delicious dish that has firmly secured its place in global cuisine.
Pros
- Convenient
- customizable
- and widely available
Cons
- High in calories
- potential for unhealthy toppings
- and can be expensive
3.
Hot dogs
Hot dogs are a popular type of fast food made from a grilled or steamed sausage served in a sliced bun. The sausage can be made from beef, pork, chicken, or a combination of meats, and is typically seasoned with a variety of spices. Hot dogs are often topped with condiments such as mustard, ketchup, onions, relish, and sauerkraut. They are a staple at sporting events, picnics, and barbecues, and are known for their quick and easy preparation. Hot dogs are a beloved comfort food enjoyed by people of all ages.
Pros
- Convenient
- quick to prepare
- versatile toppings
Cons
- High in sodium and nitrates
- processed meat
- potential choking hazard
4.
Falafel
Falafel is a traditional Middle Eastern dish made from ground chickpeas or fava beans, mixed with herbs and spices, formed into small balls or patties, and then deep-fried until crispy. It is a popular street food and is often served in pita bread with tahini sauce, hummus, and fresh vegetables. Falafel is a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or as a main course. It is also a great option for vegetarians and vegans, as it is a flavorful and protein-rich alternative to meat.
Pros
- tasty
- versatile
- vegetarian/vegan
- high in protein
Cons
- high in calories/fat
- often fried
- potential for cross-contamination in shared fryers
5.
Banh mi
Banh mi is a Vietnamese sandwich that is a fusion of French and Vietnamese cuisines. It typically consists of a baguette filled with a variety of ingredients such as grilled pork, pate, pickled vegetables, cilantro, and chili peppers. The combination of flavors and textures, including the crunchy baguette and the savory and tangy fillings, make banh mi a popular and beloved street food in Vietnam and around the world. It is a delicious and satisfying option for a quick and flavorful meal, and has become a staple in many international food scenes.
Pros
- Versatile
- delicious
- affordable
Cons
- High in carbs
- potential for unhealthy toppings
- may not be suitable for those with gluten intolerance
6.
Empanadas
Empanadas are a popular Latin American pastry that is filled with a variety of ingredients such as meat, cheese, vegetables, and spices. The dough is typically made with flour, water, and fat, and can be baked or fried to create a crispy and delicious snack or meal. Empanadas are a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as an appetizer, a main course, or even as a dessert, depending on the filling. They are commonly found in countries such as Argentina, Spain, and the Philippines, and are a beloved street food enjoyed by people of all ages.
Pros
- Portable
- versatile fillings
- delicious
Cons
- Can be high in calories
- high in fat
- time-consuming to make
7.
Arepas
Arepas are a popular food in Latin American cuisine, particularly in Colombia and Venezuela. These savory, thick, and round corn cakes are a versatile and delicious staple. They can be enjoyed as a breakfast dish, stuffed with fillings such as cheese, ham, or eggs, or served as a side dish with meat, beans, and avocado. Arepas are made from pre-cooked cornmeal, water, and salt, and are typically cooked on a griddle or in the oven. They are known for their crispy exterior and soft, doughy interior, making them a favorite comfort food for many.
Pros
- Versatile
- gluten-free
- can be filled with a variety of ingredients
Cons
- Can be high in calories and lack of nutritional value
8.
Crepes
Crepes are thin, delicate pancakes that originated in France. They are made from a simple batter of flour, eggs, milk, and butter, and can be filled with a variety of sweet or savory ingredients. Common sweet fillings include Nutella, fruit, and whipped cream, while savory options may include cheese, ham, and vegetables. Crepes are popular as a dessert or breakfast item, and can be found in many different cultures with their own unique variations. They are typically cooked on a flat griddle or frying pan, and are often served folded or rolled up.
Pros
- Versatile
- can be sweet or savory
- easy to make
- can be filled with a variety of ingredients
Cons
- Can be time-consuming to make
- can be tricky to flip
- may be high in calories
9.
Samosa
Samosa is a popular savory snack in South Asian cuisine, particularly in India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. It is a triangular-shaped pastry filled with a mixture of spiced potatoes, peas, lentils, or minced meat. The filling is seasoned with a blend of aromatic spices such as cumin, coriander, and garam masala, giving it a flavorful and slightly spicy taste. The pastry is then deep-fried until golden and crispy, creating a delicious contrast to the soft and savory filling. Samosas are often served as a street food or appetizer and are enjoyed with chutneys or sauces for dipping.
Pros
- Delicious
- portable
- versatile filling options
Cons
- High in calories and fat
- can be greasy
- not always readily available
10.
Ramen
Ramen is a popular Japanese noodle soup dish that has gained worldwide popularity. It consists of Chinese-style wheat noodles served in a meat or fish-based broth, flavored with soy sauce or miso, and topped with various ingredients such as sliced pork, nori, menma, and scallions. Ramen comes in many regional variations, with different types of broth and toppings depending on the area of Japan. It is often enjoyed as a quick and satisfying meal, and has become a staple in many countries outside of Japan due to its delicious and comforting flavors.
Pros
- Quick and convenient meal
- versatile flavor options
- affordable
Cons
- High in sodium
- lacks nutritional value
- may contain preservatives