There’s something about the vibrance of street food, the rich flavors, and the genuine cultural scenes. Not only is street food more affordable for travelers, but it’s also a more authentic experience since the natives most often gather near the street food stalls. That said, these countries offer the best street food experiences.
1. Thailand
The street food scene in Thailand is world-famous. From the sizzling stalls in Bangkok’s Chinatown to the buzzing night markets elsewhere, street dining in the Land of Smiles is just as warm and wonderful as the locals serving it.
2. Mexico
Ready for authentic Mexican food? Think tacos, tamales, and churros. Oaxaca is considered the culinary capital, but with so many vendors and a lively vibe, Mexico City also puts up a good fight.
3. India
Indian street food will get you salivating. This land does not shy away from seasoning and spice. Each region offers a unique take and covers many aspects of Indian cuisine, but for the most diverse culinary experience, Dehli is top.
4. Malaysia
At once home to residents of Chinese, Indian, and Malay descent, the food scene in Malaysia defines “eclectic.” Be sure to try a roti canai, and at least one pandan treat. Plus, sample as many mamak stalls as you can find.
5. Vietnam
No Vietnamese street food experience is complete without a bowl of pho. This staple dish is made from chewy rice noodles served in a piping hot meat broth with herb garnishes. Other treats include banh mi baguettes, goi cuon spring rolls, egg coffee, and the desserts.
6. Italy
Italy is a favorite for foodies in Europe, and the country offers so much more than Roman pizza and pasta. Try the Venetian finger food cicchetti for instance, or Bologna’s piadina — a thin flatbread. And if you want to extend your sweet palate past gelato, try sfogliatelle and cannolis.
7. Taiwan
Compared to its Southeast Asia neighbors, Taiwan is not a street food destination you hear about often. But did you know it’s the original home of bubble tea? There are also sticky rice dumplings (zongzi), sausage-wrapped sausages (da chang bao xiao chang), and oyster omelets to complete the experience.
8. Turkey
Turkey has been a natural melting pot of cultures for centuries, and that’s reflected in its cuisine and street food. From succulent shish kebabs, lahmacun (Turkish-style pizza), and the sweet papery goodness that is baklava, you won’t go hungry in this country, s for sure.
9. Peru
Peru is South America’s culinary capital. The capital city of Lima boasts the best fare. Be sure to sample a pisco sour cocktail, then search for causa for starters, lomos saltados for the main dish, and picarones doughnuts for dessert.
If you have an insatiable sweet tooth, be sure to try queso helado and a lucuma smoothie or shake.
10. South Korea
Famous for its delectable fried chicken, South Korea also offers other temptations. We hear Gwangjang Market in Seoul is a good place to start. Be sure to add hotteok pancakes, Korean egg bread, and tteokbokki rice cakes to your list of street foods to try.
11. Indonesia
Not unlike Malaysia, Indonesian street food is a diverse mix. One of the best places to experience it firsthand is at a warung. This small-scale, often family-owned eatery serves delicious cuisine in sit-down or buffet styles.
12. Greece
Eat your way through the flavors of Greece, starting with souvlaki wraps, gyros, and skewers grilled to perfection. Add a dollop of tzatziki for extra flavor before sweetening your experience with galaktoboureko (milk cake) and lokma (Greek-style doughnuts).
13. Colombia
Colombia offers a vibrant atmosphere. Along with its beautiful landscapes and fascinating history, foodies also have treats in store. These include but are not limited to arepas, empanadas, carimanolas and pasteles de arequipa. The latter is a delightful caramel-like pastry that blew us away.
14. Lebanon
Lebanese street food is often underrated. A mezze tour could include manakish flatbread, hummus, shawarma, and falafel. And if that’s not enough, the baba ganoush, kafta, and sambousek might melt your heart.
15. Singapore
The hawker centers of Singapore are in a league of their own. They include street food stalls that hold actual Michelin stars. For authentic flair and native flavor, add bak chor mee, chili crab, and kaya toast to your list.
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