When you’re wandering through the bustling streets of a new country, there’s nothing quite like the sight, smell, and sound of food being prepared right in front of you. From sizzling skewers on a grill to the aromatic waft of spices, we came up with a list of 20 popular street foods around the world that can entice you to try something new.
One of the great things about street food is how it brings people together. Whether you’re a local grabbing a quick lunch or a traveler on an adventure, these food stalls are where stories are shared and connections are made. It’s affordable, which means you can sample a variety of dishes and get a sense of the local fare. Plus, it’s often made using family recipes that have been handed down through generations.
So, the next time you find yourself in a new city, skip the fancy restaurants and head straight to the street vendors. You’ll find great food that’s not only delicious but also steeped in tradition and culture!
![A person with chopsticks cooking golden brown takoyaki balls on a griddle at a food stall. The griddle has multiple spherical molds, and various sauces and condiments are visible in the background.](https://i0.wp.com/immigrantstable.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Introduction-25.jpg)
Tacos (Mexico)
![A wooden board holds two tacos filled with ingredients like guacamole, pomegranate seeds, and garnished with cilantro, accompanied by lime wedges, a bowl of sauce, and a drink with a chili garnish. Inspired by iconic street foods from around the world, there's also a spoon with red spice next to the tacos.](https://i1.wp.com/immigrantstable.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Tacos-Mexico.jpg)
Tacos are a quintessential Mexican street food consisting of a small hand-sized corn or wheat tortilla topped with a filling. The versatility of tacos is immense, with popular fillings including grilled meats, such as carne asada (beef), al pastor (marinated pork), or chicken, along with options for fish and vegetarian ingredients. Toppings typically include fresh cilantro, chopped onions, lime juice, and various salsas ranging from mild to fiery. Additional toppings like guacamole, cheese, and sour cream can also be added. Tacos are often accompanied by radishes, cucumber, and grilled jalapeños, making them a flavorful and customizable street food favorite.
Takoyaki (Japan)
![A close-up of a dish featuring four takoyaki balls. They are drizzled with mayonnaise, a savory brown sauce, and topped with thin strips of seaweed and bonito flakes. The takoyaki balls are arranged on a dark, rectangular plate.](https://i1.wp.com/immigrantstable.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Takoyaki-Japan.jpg)
Takoyaki is a beloved Japanese street food originating from Osaka. These savory, spherical snacks are made from a batter consisting of wheat flour, eggs, and dashi broth, filled with diced octopus, green onions, pickled ginger, and tempura scraps (tenkasu). Cooked in a special takoyaki pan, the batter is poured into half-spherical molds and turned continuously to achieve a perfectly round shape with a crisp exterior and a tender interior. Once cooked, takoyaki are topped with takoyaki sauce (similar to Worcestershire sauce), Japanese mayonnaise, bonito flakes (dried fish flakes), and aonori (seaweed powder). Takoyaki are enjoyed hot, often served in a paper tray or on a skewer.
Pani Puri (India)
![A black plate holds a ring of breaded and fried round food items, each crowned with white cheese and a sprinkle of red and green garnish, reminiscent of iconic street foods. In the center is a dipping sauce. The plate rests on a wooden surface.](https://i0.wp.com/immigrantstable.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Pani-Puri-India.jpg)
Pani Puri, also known as Golgappa or Puchka, is a popular street food in India. It consists of small, hollow, crispy puris filled with a mixture of spicy, tangy, and sweet flavored water (pani), tamarind chutney, chili, chaat masala, potato, onion, and chickpeas. The puris are made from wheat flour or semolina and are deep-fried until they puff up. To eat, you crack a small hole in the top of the puri, fill it with the mixture, and consume it whole in one bite. The burst of flavors and textures in your mouth makes Pani Puri an exhilarating street food experience.
Pad Thai (Thailand)
![A white plate with a serving of stir-fried noodles garnished with green onions, a purple orchid, and a slice of lime sits on a wooden table. Two black sauce dishes are placed on the plate's edge, with a green leaf underneath.](https://i1.wp.com/immigrantstable.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Pad-Thai-Thailand.jpg)
Pad Thai is a famous Thai street food dish that consists of stir-fried rice noodles with eggs, tofu, shrimp, bean sprouts, and other vegetables, all tossed in a tamarind-based sauce. The sauce typically includes fish sauce, dried shrimp, garlic or shallots, red chili pepper, and palm sugar. The dish is often garnished with crushed peanuts, lime wedges, and fresh cilantro, and served with a side of chili powder and additional lime for extra flavor customization. Pad Thai is known for its harmonious balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors, making it a delicious street food option.
Jianbing (China)
![A neatly folded jianbing, one of the iconic street foods, commonly made with a crepe-like base, egg, scallions, and a variety of fillings. It is sprinkled with sesame seeds and rests on a brown napkin atop a wooden table.](https://i1.wp.com/immigrantstable.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Jianbing-China.jpg)
Jianbing is one of China’s most popular street foods, often enjoyed as a breakfast item. It is a type of savory crepe made from a batter of wheat and mung bean flour. The batter is spread thinly on a griddle and cooked with an egg cracked on top, which is then spread evenly. Common fillings include scallions, cilantro, pickled mustard tuber, and crispy wonton wrappers. Some variations also include sausage, chicken, or other meats. The crepe is then folded and served hot, delivering a combination of textures and flavors, from the crispy exterior to the savory, fresh, and tangy fillings inside.
Bánh mì (Vietnam)
![A wicker basket holding two halves of a sandwich filled with various ingredients sits on a wooden table. Beside the basket is a can of Bia Ha Noi beer.](https://i1.wp.com/immigrantstable.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Banh-mi-Vietnam.jpg)
Bánh mì is a Vietnamese sandwich that reflects a fusion of Vietnamese and French culinary traditions. It features a crisp baguette filled with a variety of ingredients. Typically, a Bánh mì contains a combination of meats such as pork, pâté, and cold cuts, along with pickled carrots and daikon, cucumber slices, cilantro, jalapeños, and mayonnaise. The result is a perfect balance of textures and flavors: the crunch of the bread and vegetables, the savory richness of the meats, and the freshness of the herbs. Bánh mì is a delicious and affordable street food, enjoyed by people across Vietnam and beyond.
Döner Kebab (Turkey)
![A close-up shot of a meal featuring grilled pieces of meat partially wrapped in flatbread. The dish is garnished with fresh parsley and dill, accompanied by thinly sliced red onions and bell peppers. A traveler’s delight served on a white plate.](https://i0.wp.com/immigrantstable.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Doner-Kebab-Turkey.jpg)
Döner Kebab is a popular Turkish street food consisting of seasoned meat cooked on a vertical rotisserie. The meat, typically lamb, beef, or chicken, is thinly sliced and served in various forms, such as in a pita, flatbread, or as a wrap. Accompaniments often include fresh vegetables like lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and cucumbers, as well as sauces such as garlic yogurt, tahini, or hot sauce. The key to a good Döner Kebab is the marination of the meat, which usually includes a combination of spices, herbs, and sometimes yogurt, resulting in a flavorful and juicy bite every time.
Tteokbokki (South Korea)
![A close-up of a large pan filled with tteokbokki, one of the iconic street foods from Korea, consisting of stir-fried rice cakes in a spicy red sauce. The dish includes green vegetables and is being stirred by a person holding a utensil.](https://i0.wp.com/immigrantstable.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Tteokbokki-South-Korea.jpg)
Tteokbokki is a beloved South Korean street food made from chewy rice cakes (tteok) cooked in a spicy and sweet gochujang (Korean chili paste) sauce. The dish often includes fish cakes, boiled eggs, scallions, and sometimes additional vegetables like cabbage or carrots. The sauce, made from a blend of gochujang, soy sauce, sugar, and garlic, coats the rice cakes and other ingredients, creating a vibrant red, flavorful dish. Tteokbokki is typically served hot, making it a popular comfort food, especially in colder weather. Its combination of chewy texture and spicy, savory sauce makes it a favorite among street food enthusiasts.
Arancini (Italy)
![A close-up of two fried, breaded street foods, with one split open to reveal a filling of rice and bits of meat. Next to them is a side salad with a mix of greens and slices of tomato, served in a cardboard tray. The background is blurry with part of an iconic vehicle visible.](https://i1.wp.com/immigrantstable.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Arancini-Italy.jpg)
Arancini are traditional Italian street food snacks originating from Sicily. These deep-fried rice balls are typically filled with a mixture of ragù (meat sauce), mozzarella or other cheeses, and peas. The rice is usually flavored with saffron, giving it a distinct yellow color. The balls are coated in breadcrumbs before being fried to a golden, crispy perfection. Arancini can also come in various regional variations, with different fillings such as ham, mushrooms, or eggplant. The name "arancini" means "little oranges" in Italian, referring to their shape and color. These amazing treats are enjoyed warm and are perfect for a quick snack.
Crêpes (France)
![A tall stack of crepes is displayed on a counter decorated with Christmas-themed ornaments and greenery. Nearby, a plate holds some rolled crepes. In the background, blurred figures and a menu board.](https://i0.wp.com/immigrantstable.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Crepes-France.jpg)
Crêpes are a popular French street food that can be either sweet or savory. Made from a thin batter consisting of flour, eggs, milk, and butter, crêpes are cooked on a hot griddle until golden brown. Sweet crêpes are often filled with ingredients like Nutella, fresh fruit, whipped cream, or jam, while savory crêpes (known as galettes) are filled with ham, cheese, eggs, and vegetables. The versatility of crêpes makes them a beloved street food in France, enjoyed at any time of day. They are typically folded or rolled and served hot, making them an easy and delicious treat to enjoy on the go.
Coxinha (Brazil)
![A plate with several golden brown, teardrop-shaped fried pastries, with one cut in half showing a shredded chicken filling mixed with green herbs. These iconic street foods boast a crispy exterior, indicating they are freshly fried.](https://i1.wp.com/immigrantstable.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Coxinha-Brazil.jpg)
Coxinha is a popular Brazilian street food snack that resembles a teardrop-shaped croquette. It consists of shredded chicken mixed with cream cheese and spices, encased in a dough made from flour and chicken broth. The filled dough is then shaped into its signature teardrop form, breaded, and deep-fried until crispy and golden. The name "coxinha" means "little thigh" in Portuguese, referring to its shape, which is meant to resemble a chicken drumstick. Coxinha is often served with a side of hot sauce or ketchup and is a favorite among Brazilians for its savory flavor and satisfying crunch.
Suya (Nigeria)
![Close-up of several skewers of meat being grilled over hot coals. A person is seen turning one of the skewers. The marinated meat appears slightly charred from grilling. Smoke is visible rising from the grill.](https://i1.wp.com/immigrantstable.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Suya-Nigeria.jpg)
Suya is a popular Nigerian street food that consists of skewered and grilled meat, typically beef or chicken, coated with a spicy peanut-based seasoning called yaji. The seasoning blend includes ground peanuts, ginger, paprika, cayenne pepper, and other spices, giving the meat a distinct and flavorful taste. The skewers are grilled over an open flame until the meat is tender and slightly charred. Suya is often served with sliced onions, tomatoes, and sometimes cabbage, along with additional yaji for dipping. This delicious and spicy street food is enjoyed across Nigeria and is a favorite for its bold flavors and smoky aroma.
Satay (Indonesia)
![A white plate with five skewers of grilled meat arranged around a bowl of peanut sauce, sprinkled with crushed peanuts. The plate also includes a side salad with cucumber, tomato, red onion, and red chili slices on a wooden table.](https://i0.wp.com/immigrantstable.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Satay-Indonesia.jpg)
Satay is a popular Indonesian street food consisting of skewered and grilled meat, often served with a rich, savory peanut sauce. The meat, which can be chicken, beef, pork, or lamb, is marinated in a mixture of turmeric, garlic, coriander, and other spices before being threaded onto bamboo skewers. The skewers are grilled over an open flame, giving the meat a smoky, charred flavor. Satay is typically served with a side of peanut sauce, which is made from ground peanuts, soy sauce, garlic, and spices, creating a creamy and flavorful dip. It is often accompanied by rice cakes (ketupat) and pickled vegetables.
Balut (Philippines)
![A close-up photo shows a hand holding a partially peeled balut egg, revealing the developing duck embryo inside with visible feathers and a beak. As one of the iconic street foods around the world, this delicacy often intrigues every traveler who encounters it. The egg's shell is cracked open, partly exposing its contents.](https://i1.wp.com/immigrantstable.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Balut-Philippines.jpg)
Balut is a traditional Filipino street food consisting of a fertilized duck egg with a partially developed embryo inside. The egg is boiled and eaten directly from the shell, typically with a pinch of salt, vinegar, or chili. Balut is often considered an acquired taste due to its distinct texture and flavor, which combines the richness of the yolk with the tenderness of the developing duckling. It is commonly sold by street vendors in the evening and is believed to have aphrodisiac properties. Despite its unusual nature, Balut remains a popular and culturally significant street food in the Philippines.
Koshari (Egypt)
![A close-up of a bowl filled with macaroni pasta, lentils, and a tomato-based sauce, garnished with chopped parsley and diced tomatoes. Various ingredients can be seen in the background, including a bunch of fresh herbs and a bowl of red sauce.](https://i0.wp.com/immigrantstable.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Koshari-Egypt.jpg)
Koshari is a beloved Egyptian street food that combines a variety of ingredients into a hearty and flavorful dish. It consists of rice, lentils, and macaroni, topped with a spiced tomato sauce, and garnished with crispy fried onions and chickpeas. A tangy garlic vinegar and hot sauce are often served on the side, allowing diners to customize the dish to their taste. Koshari is a popular comfort food in Egypt, known for its amazing combination of textures and flavors. It is commonly sold by street vendors and small restaurants and is enjoyed as a filling and affordable meal by people of all ages.
Currywurst (Germany)
![Two people enjoy a meal at a table. One holds a fork with a piece of sausage, and in front of them, there's a tray of iconic street foods like sausages and fries. The other has their tray topped with ketchup-covered sausages and fries. Only their torsos and arms are visible in this snapshot.](https://i0.wp.com/immigrantstable.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Currywurst-Germany.jpg)
Currywurst is a popular German street food consisting of steamed and then fried pork sausage (Bratwurst) sliced and topped with a curry-flavored ketchup sauce. The sauce is typically made from a combination of ketchup, curry powder, Worcestershire sauce, and other spices, creating a tangy and mildly spicy flavor. Currywurst is often served with a side of French fries or bread rolls and is enjoyed as a quick snack or meal. Originating in Berlin in the 1940s, Currywurst has become an iconic street food in Germany, with many variations and dedicated Currywurst stands across the country.
Roti Canai (Malaysia)
![A plate of folded, golden-brown flatbreads is in the foreground. Surrounding the plate are various dishes, including bowls of curry and other side dishes. The background shows additional pieces of flatbread and a small bowl of colorful vegetables.](https://i0.wp.com/immigrantstable.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Roti-Canai-Malaysia.jpg)
Roti Canai is a popular Malaysian street food that consists of a flaky, layered flatbread served with a side of curry for dipping. The dough is made from flour, water, and ghee (clarified butter), and is repeatedly folded and stretched to create its signature layers. The flatbread is then cooked on a hot griddle until golden and crispy on the outside, yet soft and chewy on the inside. Roti Canai is often enjoyed for breakfast or as a snack and can be paired with various types of curry, such as chicken, beef, or dhal (lentil) curry. Its versatility and flavor make it a beloved street food in Malaysia.
Souvlaki (Greece)
![Three grilled chicken skewers on a wooden board are garnished with herbs and placed beside a small bowl of white sauce. Sliced red onions and fresh herbs are visible close by. A partial view of an olive oil bottle and a cloth napkin can be seen.](https://i1.wp.com/immigrantstable.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Souvlaki-Greece.jpg)
Souvlaki is a popular Greek street food consisting of small pieces of meat, typically pork, chicken, or lamb, marinated and grilled on a skewer. The marinade often includes olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, and other herbs, giving the meat a flavorful and aromatic taste. Souvlaki is usually served with pita bread, fresh vegetables such as tomatoes, onions, and lettuce, and a side of tzatziki sauce (yogurt, cucumber, and garlic). It can be enjoyed on the skewer or as a wrap, making it a versatile and delicious street food option. Souvlaki is loved for its simplicity, taste, and the authentic Greek flavors it delivers.
Manakish (Lebanon)
![Flatbread topped with za'atar seasoning is partially cut, garnished with fresh leaves on a wooden cutting board. A napkin and a glass of tea are visible in the background. Scattered sesame seeds and mint leaves.](https://i1.wp.com/immigrantstable.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Manakish-Lebanon.jpg)
Manakish is a traditional Lebanese street food that resembles a flatbread or pizza. It is made from a simple dough topped with various ingredients such as za'atar (a blend of thyme, sesame seeds, and sumac), cheese, or minced meat. The dough is rolled out, topped, and then baked in a hot oven until the bread is golden and the toppings are melted and fragrant. Manakish is typically enjoyed for breakfast or as a snack and can be found at bakeries and street vendors throughout Lebanon. Its combination of warm, soft bread and flavorful toppings makes it a beloved and versatile street food.
Blini (Russia)
![A plate of crepes garnished with sprigs of dill, a lemon wedge, a small bowl of sour cream, and red caviar sits on a red and white checkered tablecloth.](https://i1.wp.com/immigrantstable.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Blini-Russia.jpg)
Blini are thin Russian pancakes made from a batter of flour, eggs, milk, and yeast. They are similar to French crêpes but are typically smaller and thicker. Blini can be served with a variety of sweet or savory fillings, making them a versatile street food. Sweet fillings include jam, honey, condensed milk, or fresh berries, while savory options might include smoked salmon, caviar, sour cream, or cheese. Blini are often enjoyed during Maslenitsa, a Russian festival celebrating the end of winter, but they are also a popular street food year-round. Their soft texture and diverse fillings make them a favorite treat in Russia.
Munch Around the World
![A man stands outdoors at a food market, smiling while enjoying iconic street foods from a skewer. He holds a small paper tray with additional items. Wearing a backpack and a blue shirt, the traveler is surrounded by the bustling market filled with people and food stalls in the background.](https://i1.wp.com/immigrantstable.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Munch-Around-the-World.jpg)
In conclusion, street food is more than just a quick bite; it’s an adventure waiting to be experienced. It gives us a glimpse into the daily lives of locals and a taste of their heritage. Whether you’re munching on spicy tacos in Mexico or savoring a crispy crepe in France, each dish tells a story and adds to the richness of your travel memories.
You’ll also find that some of the most memorable meals come from these humble spots, where tradition and creativity blend seamlessly. The affordable prices allow you to try multiple dishes, each guaranteeing a new flavor and experience.
So, the next time you travel, make street food a priority. Skip the tourist traps and fancy dining; the real treasures are found at the street vendors and food markets. These bites of local flavor will not only fill your stomach but also leave you with stories and memories that last a lifetime. Enjoy the journey, one bite at a time!
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