10 Must-Try Street Foods from Around the World

Sampling local street food is a delightful journey I cherish while travelling. It’s one of my favourite ways to connect with culture. Picture yourself wandering the vibrant markets of Bangkok, where flavours explode like fireworks. Stroll through the colourful streets of Mexico City, where each bite tells a story. Or lose yourself in the tranquil pathways of Marrakech, where aromas beckon you to indulge.

From irresistible salty snacks to heavenly sugary delights, street vendors serve treasures. Often tastier and more affordable than restaurant fare, these bites are a world of flavour.

But wait, there’s more! We offer some fantastic culinary lessons, too. In this guide, we’ll take you on a tantalising tour of 10 must-try street foods. Get ready to ignite your taste buds and spark your wanderlust!

1. Tacos – Mexico

No street food list is complete without tacos, the iconic dish of Mexico. Tacos are made with a soft or crispy corn tortilla, filled with various savoury ingredients, and topped with onions, cilantro, and salsa.

Varieties You Must Try

• Tacos al Pastor: Marinated pork cooked on a spit, served with pineapple.
• Tacos de Barbacoa: Slow-cooked beef or lamb with rich, smoky flavours.
• Tacos de Pescado: Baja-style fish tacos with cabbage slaw and chipotle sauce.

Where to Try It

• Mexico City: The vibrant markets offer some of the best street tacos.
• Tijuana: Known for its legendary Baja-style tacos.

2. Pad Thai – Thailand

Pad Thai is Thailand’s most popular street food dish, and always perfectly sweet, savoury and tangy. This stir-fried noodle dish is made with rice noodles, tamarind sauce, fish sauce, eggs and prawns or chicken.

Why It’s a Must-Try

• A big burst of flavour comes from peanuts, fresh lime juice and chilli flakes.
• It also is a frugal meal, ideal for backpackers or foodies.

Where to Try It

• Bangkok’s Khao San Road: Famous for its affordable and authentic Pad Thai stalls.
• Chiang Mai Night Bazaar: Known for its wide variety of street food dishes.

3. Banh Mi – Vietnam

Banh Mi is a fusion of French and Vietnamese cuisine, a flavour-packed sandwich made with a crispy baguette filled with meat, pickled vegetables, cilantro, and spicy mayonnaise.

Popular Fillings

• Grilled Pork (Thịt Nướng) – Sweet and smoky marinated pork.
• Pâté and Ham – A classic French-inspired filling.
• Vegetarian Banh Mi – Tofu with spicy sauce and fresh herbs.

Where to Try It

• Ho Chi Minh City: Renowned for its legendary Banh Mi Huynh Hoa.
• Hanoi: Street stalls in the Old Quarter serve delicious Banh Mi variations.

4. Arepas – Colombia & Venezuela

Arepas are thick, round corn cakes that are grilled or fried and filled with cheese, meat, or avocado. They are a staple street food in Colombia and Venezuela, often eaten for breakfast or as a snack.

Why You Should Try Them

• The crispy exterior and soft interior create a delightful texture.
• Arepas are gluten-free, making them a popular choice for travellers with dietary restrictions.

Where to Try It

• Bogotá, Colombia: Street vendors serve hot and cheesy arepas.
• Caracas, Venezuela: Famous for Arepa Reina Pepiada (chicken and avocado filling).

5. Samosas – India

A beloved street food in India, samosas are deep-fried pastries filled with spiced potatoes, peas, and occasionally meat. They are served with mint or tamarind chutney, adding a tangy kick.

Why It’s a Must-Try

• The flaky, golden crust paired with spicy filling is incredibly satisfying.
• Samosas are often enjoyed as a tea-time snack or street-side treat.

Where to Try It

• Delhi: The streets of Chandni Chowk are famous for their spicy samosas.
• Mumbai: Street vendors serve samosas with a side of pav (bread roll).

6. Poutine – Canada

Poutine is a Canadian comfort food consisting of crispy fries topped with cheese curds and smothered in gravy. It’s a rich and indulgent dish perfect for warming up on a cold day.

Why You’ll Love It

• The combination of crispy fries and gooey cheese creates a delightful contrast.
• It’s often served with meat, mushrooms, or pulled pork for added flavour.

Where to Try It

• Montreal: The birthplace of poutine, known for its authentic versions.
• Toronto: Street vendors serve creative variations with unique toppings.

7. Churros – Spain

Churros are a beloved Spanish street food. They consist of fried dough pastries coated in sugar and cinnamon, typically served with rich chocolate sauce for dipping.

Why They’re Irresistible

• The crispy exterior and soft, fluffy interior make them a perfect sweet treat.
• Churros are often enjoyed as a late-night snack or breakfast dessert.

Where to Try It

• Madrid: Visit Chocolatería San Ginés, famous for its classic churros.
• Barcelona: Street vendors serve fresh churros at markets and fairs.

8. Döner Kebab – Turkey

The Döner Kebab is a popular Turkish street food made with rotisserie-cooked meat, typically lamb, chicken, or beef, served in flatbread or pita with fresh vegetables and sauce.

Why It’s a Street Food Favourite

• The meat is slow-cooked on a vertical spit, making it tender and flavourful.
• It’s an affordable and filling meal, perfect for travellers.

Where to Try It

• Istanbul: Street vendors and local shops serve authentic kebabs.
• Berlin, Germany: Known for its vibrant Turkish street food scene.

9. Takoyaki – Japan

Takoyaki are crispy, golden-brown octopus balls made from a savoury batter and topped with bonito flakes, takoyaki sauce, and mayonnaise.

Why It’s a Must-Try

• The crispy exterior and creamy centre create a delightful texture contrast.
• It’s a popular street food at Japanese festivals and markets.

Where to Try It

• Osaka: Known as the birthplace of Takoyaki.
• Tokyo: Street vendors near Tsukiji Market serve delicious versions.

10. Empanadas – Argentina

Empanadas are savoury pastries filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables, baked or fried. They are a beloved street food snack across Argentina and Latin America.

Why You’ll Love Them

• The flaky, golden pastry and rich, savoury filling make them incredibly satisfying.
• They are often served with a side of chimichurri sauce.

Where to Try It

• Buenos Aires: Known for its variety of empanada fillings, from beef to spinach.
• Mendoza: Street vendors serve freshly made empanadas with local wine.

A Taste of the World: Your Street Food Adventure Awaits

Street food goes beyond a meal on the go — it’s an experience. From spicy tacos in Mexico to crunchy samosas in India, each dish is a story of the local customs and tastes.

These 10 street foods you must try inspire your food adventures, whether you’re exploring the globe or at home. So, when you’re on the streets of a new nation, keep an eye out for these iconic delicacies — your taste buds!
Check this blog to cook some of these at home