Forget the five-star restaurants. Sometimes the very best food can be found in a truck or cart right out on the street. Some destinations are known for their uniquely delicious street food. Here are the top 10 street food destinations that are well worth traveling for.
- Bangkok, Thailand
Bangkok is widely renowned for its vibrant street food selection. Some of its most iconic street food includes Pad Thai, Som Tum (papaya salad), and Tom Yum Goong.
- Hong Kong, China
Hong Kong boasts a wide array of street food, from egg waffles and fish balls to siu mai and the controversial shark fin soup.
- Singapore
Singapore is known for its hawker culture. This is rooted in its multicultural heritage and reflects the hawkers who prepare street food and the patrons who enjoy these communal dining spaces. Singapore’s street food spans far and wide, from Hainanese chicken rice and chili crab to laksa and Roti Prata. Many dishes pull inspiration from China, Malaysia, and India.
- Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul’s most iconic street food dishes include simit, midye, dolma (stuffed muscles), and kokorec (grilled lamb intestines). Many of these dishes are best enjoyed alongside tea.
- Paris, France
The city of Paris is littered with street food options. Famous for its sweet and savory crepes, it is a food destination for many. But they also have falafels, kebabs, and a wide array of pastries to enjoy on the go.
- Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Rio’s vibrant street food scene features many Brazilian classics. Some popular standouts include Pão de Queijo, which are cheesebread puffs, Coxinha, which are deep-fried fritters stuffed with shredded chicken, and pastel, a deep-fried pastry that can be served savory or sweet.
- Ho Chi Minh, China
Ho Chi Minh is best known for its street Phở, Bánh mì, and other classics like spring rolls and egg coffee. Foodies travel far and wide to experience the impressive spread of street food in Ho Chi Minh.
- Mumbai, India
Vada Pav is arguably the most popular street food, fondly called the “Mumbai Burger”. It is a deep-fried potato fritter with chutney and fried chillies on a soft bun. But other iconic street foods of Mumbai include Pav Bhaji, Bhelpuri, and Sev Puri.
- Tel Aviv, Israel
Fresh falafel and shawarma are two of the most popular street foods in Tel Aviv. But some other must-try foods are hummus, sabich, and shakshuka.
- Mexico City, Mexico
Mexico is known for its street food trucks and stands, but Mexico City’s street food scene is perhaps the most vibrant of them all. Fresh tacos can be found on almost every corner. Quesadillas, tamales, and churros are also excellent street food options to taste the culture.
