A Foodie’s Guide to Street Eats Around the World

For travelers who love culinary adventures, street food is the best way to experience authentic flavors, local traditions, and cultural heritage. Whether you're exploring bustling Asian markets, European food stalls, or Latin American street corners, these iconic street eats will make your taste buds dance. Here’s your ultimate street food travel guide for 2025.

Bangkok, Thailand – Pad Thai & Mango Sticky Rice

Thailand’s street food scene is legendary, and no trip to Bangkok is complete without indulging in Pad Thai—stir-fried rice noodles with shrimp, tofu, egg, and peanuts. For dessert, grab a plate of mango sticky rice, made with sweet coconut milk-infused glutinous rice and fresh mango slices.

Foodie Tip: Visit Yaowarat Road (Chinatown) for the best street food experience.

Photo by Tai's Captures

Mexico City, Mexico – Tacos al Pastor & Elote

Mexico City is a paradise for street food lovers. Tacos al pastor, featuring marinated pork carved from a rotating spit and served with pineapple, is a must-try. For a snack, enjoy elote, grilled corn slathered with mayo, cheese, lime, and chili powder.

Food Budget Tip: Street tacos are affordable, often costing less than $1 each.

Photo by Annie Spratt

Marrakech, Morocco – Tagine & Sfenj

Marrakech’s Jemaa el-Fnaa market is a street food haven. Try tagine, a slow-cooked stew of meat, vegetables, and spices. For a sweet treat, grab sfenj, Moroccan-style doughnuts dusted with sugar. Pair it with traditional mint tea for the full experience.

Mindful Travel Tip: Always ask for prices before ordering to avoid tourist traps.

Photo by Matthew Hamilton

Hanoi, Vietnam – Pho & Banh Mi

Vietnamese cuisine is packed with bold flavors, and street food is at its heart. A steaming bowl of pho (beef noodle soup) or a crusty banh mi (Vietnamese sandwich filled with pâté, pork, and fresh herbs) is the perfect introduction to Hanoi’s bustling food scene.

Sustainable Travel Tip: Bring reusable chopsticks and containers to reduce waste.

Photo by Zeki Okur

Istanbul, Turkey – Simit & Kumpir

Istanbul’s street food is a fusion of East and West. Try simit, a sesame-crusted bread similar to a bagel, perfect for breakfast. For a heartier meal, enjoy kumpir, a baked potato stuffed with cheese, butter, olives, and a variety of toppings.

Cultural Travel Tip: Pair your snack with Turkish tea for an authentic experience.

Exploring street food is one of the best ways to experience a destination’s culinary culture. From Asian night markets to Middle Eastern souks, every bite tells a story. Which street food city will you visit first?