10 Must-Try Street Foods Around the World

Forget fancy restaurants and Michelin stars, sometimes the most unforgettable culinary experiences are found on the bustling streets of cities around the world. Street food isn’t just about convenience, it’s a vibrant tapestry of flavours, cultures, and traditions, often offering a glimpse into the heart and soul of a place. So, if you’re ready for a gastronomic adventure, here are 10 must-try street foods from around the globe that will tantalise your taste buds and leave you craving more.

1. You can’t visit Thailand without indulging in Pad Thai.

This iconic stir-fried noodle dish is a symphony of flavours, combining sweet, sour, salty, and spicy notes in perfect harmony. Flat rice noodles are tossed with eggs, tofu, shrimp, or chicken, and a medley of vegetables, all coated in a tangy tamarind sauce. Topped with crushed peanuts and a squeeze of lime, Pad Thai is a true masterpiece of Thai street food.

2. In Japan, Takoyaki is a must-try street food delicacy.

These savoury balls of batter are filled with diced octopus, tempura scraps, pickled ginger, and green onions, then cooked in a special pan until golden brown and crispy. Takoyaki is typically drizzled with a sweet and savoury sauce, mayonnaise, and a sprinkle of dried seaweed, creating a flavour explosion in every bite.

3. When in Mexico, don’t miss out on Tacos al Pastor.

These mouth-watering tacos feature marinated pork that’s been slow-cooked on a vertical spit, reminiscent of the Lebanese shawarma. The thinly sliced pork is piled onto warm corn tortillas and topped with chopped onions, cilantro, pineapple, and a drizzle of salsa. The combination of savoury, sweet, and tangy flavours is simply irresistible.

4. If you’re exploring India, be sure to try Pani Puri.

These crispy, hollow puris are filled with a tantalising mixture of spiced potatoes, chickpeas, tamarind chutney, and a tangy mint-coriander water. The burst of flavours and textures in your mouth is a truly unique and unforgettable experience. Just be prepared for a bit of a mess!

5. In Vietnam, Banh Mi is a popular and delicious street food option.

This fusion of French and Vietnamese cuisine features a crusty baguette filled with grilled meat, pâté, pickled vegetables, fresh herbs, and a spicy chilli sauce. The combination of textures and flavours, from the soft baguette to the crunchy vegetables and savoury fillings, makes Banh Mi a satisfying and flavourful meal on the go.

6. If you’re in Italy, you can’t leave without trying Arancini.

These golden-brown rice balls are filled with a savoury mixture of rice, meat ragu, peas, and mozzarella cheese, then coated in breadcrumbs and deep-fried to perfection. Arancini are a true Sicilian speciality, offering a delightful combination of crispy exterior and creamy, flavourful filling.

7. When in Morocco, be sure to sample the flavours of Tagine.

While technically not a street food, Tagine is a staple of Moroccan cuisine that can often be found in bustling markets and food stalls. This slow-cooked stew features tender meat, vegetables, and aromatic spices, all simmered in a conical clay pot. The result is a fragrant and flavourful dish that’s perfect for sharing.

8. If you find yourself in Turkey, don’t miss out on Döner Kebab.

This iconic Turkish street food features thinly sliced meat (usually lamb, beef, or chicken) that’s been stacked on a vertical rotisserie and slowly cooked. The meat is shaved off and stuffed into warm flatbread, along with fresh vegetables, yoghurt sauce, and a sprinkle of spices. Döner Kebab is a satisfying and flavourful meal that’s perfect for any time of day.

9. When exploring Greece, be sure to indulge in Souvlaki.

These skewers of grilled meat (typically pork, chicken, or lamb) are marinated in olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs, then cooked over charcoal until tender and juicy. Souvlaki is often served in pita bread with tzatziki sauce, tomatoes, onions, and fries, making it a delicious and satisfying meal on the go.

10. In Jamaica, Jerk Chicken is a must-try street food experience.

This fiery and flavourful dish features chicken that’s been marinated in a blend of scotch bonnet peppers, allspice, thyme, and other spices, then grilled or smoked to perfection. The result is tender, juicy chicken with a smoky, spicy kick that will leave your taste buds tingling. Jerk Chicken is often served with rice and peas, fried plantains, and a side of festival bread.