The Best Street Foods to Try Around the World in 2024

Published: June 5, 2024

The Best Street Foods to Try Around the World in 2024

Street food is one of the most authentic ways to experience a destination's culture. It’s quick, often delicious, and a reflection of the local community’s tastes, traditions, and flavors. Whether you’re walking through a bustling market or enjoying a quiet alley, street food offers something special for every traveler. Here’s a roundup of the best street foods to try around the world in 2024—each with its own unique flair and cultural significance.

Tacos Al Pastor – Mexico City, Mexico

Why Try It: The perfect balance of savory, smoky, and tangy flavors.

Tacos al pastor is one of Mexico’s most iconic street foods. The dish features marinated pork, cooked on a vertical spit (similar to shawarma), and is often served with pineapple, cilantro, onions, and salsa, all wrapped in a soft corn tortilla. It’s a perfect combination of flavors, and the pork’s crispy edges paired with the sweetness of pineapple make for an unforgettable bite.

Where to Find It:

Visit the taquerias around Mexico City, especially in the neighborhoods of El Pastor and Tepito, for an authentic taste.

Banh Mi – Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Why Try It: A fusion of French and Vietnamese influences, packed into a crusty baguette.

Banh mi is Vietnam’s answer to the sandwich, but with a distinct twist. A crisp French baguette is filled with a variety of ingredients, from savory meats like grilled pork or pate, to pickled vegetables, cilantro, cucumber, and spicy chili. The combination of crunchy, fresh, and spicy flavors makes it a go-to street food in Vietnam.

Where to Find It:

Saigon’s District 1 is full of street vendors offering banh mi, but for the best, check out Banh Mi Huynh Hoa, a local favorite.

Churros – Madrid, Spain

Why Try It: A sweet and crispy treat that’s perfect for dessert or breakfast.

Churros are a beloved snack throughout Spain, but Madrid does them best. These fried dough sticks are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, often dusted with sugar and served with a thick, hot chocolate dipping sauce. They’re a popular street snack enjoyed by locals and visitors alike, especially in the morning with a cup of coffee.

Where to Find It:

San Ginés, a historic churros spot near the Puerta del Sol, is a must-visit for churro lovers.

Samosas – Delhi, India

Why Try It: A savory, spiced pastry that packs a punch.

Samosas are deep-fried pockets of joy, typically filled with spiced potatoes, peas, and sometimes meat. They’re a classic street food throughout India, loved for their combination of crunchiness and the warm, flavorful filling. Often served with tamarind chutney, these triangular snacks are the perfect mix of savory, spicy, and tangy.

Where to Find It:

Delhi’s Chandni Chowk market is the ultimate spot for fresh, crispy samosas.

Packing Essentials for the Carnival

Costume: Even if you don’t attend a ball, dressing up enhances the experience. Opt for period-style outfits to blend in.
Comfortable Shoes: Venice’s cobblestone streets and bridges require sturdy footwear.
Weather Gear: February in Venice can be chilly and wet, so pack a warm coat and umbrella.
Camera: Capture the vibrant scenes, but be mindful not to disrupt performances.

Satay – Jakarta, Indonesia

Why Try It: Chargrilled skewers with a rich peanut sauce.

Satay is a popular Indonesian street food made of marinated meat (usually chicken, beef, or pork) grilled on skewers and served with a rich, creamy peanut sauce. The smoky, savory meat pairs beautifully with the sweet and spicy sauce, making it a perfect bite for anyone who loves grilled foods.

Where to Find It:

In Jakarta, visit the street vendors at Jalan Sabang, where satay is sold fresh and hot off the grill.

Ceviche – Lima, Peru

Why Try It: A fresh, tangy seafood dish that bursts with flavor.

Ceviche is one of Peru’s most famous dishes, and for good reason. Fresh raw fish (often snapper or tilapia) is marinated in freshly squeezed lime juice, mixed with onions, cilantro, and chili peppers. The acidity of the lime juice "cooks" the fish, making it a refreshing and light dish perfect for warm weather.

Where to Find It:

Lima’s Miraflores district is filled with seafood stalls and restaurants offering the freshest ceviche.

Arepas – Bogotá, Colombia

Why Try It: A versatile cornmeal dish that’s crispy, savory, and utterly satisfying.

Arepas are cornmeal cakes that are grilled, fried, or baked and filled with various ingredients like cheese, meats, or avocados. They’re a beloved street food in Colombia, and each region has its own take on this versatile dish. Simple yet satisfying, arepas are a great choice for breakfast or lunch.

Where to Find It:

Bogotá’s La Candelaria neighborhood offers a variety of arepa vendors, where you can sample both savory and sweet versions.

Jerk Chicken – Kingston, Jamaica

Why Try It: A spicy, smoky, and flavorful grilled chicken.

Jerk chicken is marinated with a blend of spices, including allspice, scotch bonnet peppers, and thyme, before being grilled over a wood or charcoal fire. The result is a smoky, flavorful chicken with a delightful kick. It’s a must-try street food for spice lovers.

Where to Find It:

Kingston’s streets and markets are filled with jerk chicken vendors, offering the best smoky flavors.

treet food is a reflection of a region’s culture, history, and local flavors, making it an essential part of any travel experience. Whether it’s the savory, spice-packed tacos of Mexico City or the crispy, golden churros of Madrid, each bite tells a unique story of the place you’re visiting. If you’re planning to travel in 2024, be sure to seek out these iconic street foods—each one a must-try on your culinary adventure.

Ready to taste the world’s best street foods? Get your taste buds ready for a global journey!

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Published: June 5, 2024