Street food isn’t just about convenience—it’s a reflection of a culture’s flavor, creativity, and community. From sizzling woks to open-air grills, these dishes are often where culinary traditions meet innovation. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or building your food bucket list, here are 10 iconic street foods from around the world you absolutely need to try.
- Tacos al Pastor – Mexico
A cornerstone of Mexican street cuisine, tacos al pastor are made from pork marinated in a blend of chilies, spices, and pineapple, slow-roasted on a vertical spit. They’re sliced thin and served on small corn tortillas, topped with onion, cilantro, and more pineapple.
Where to try it: Mexico City’s taco stands or at Los Tacos No.1 in NYC
Make it at home: Serious Eats’ al Pastor Recipe
- Bánh Mì – Vietnam
A French-Vietnamese fusion sandwich, bánh mì features a crisp baguette filled with pickled vegetables, chili, cilantro, pâté, and various proteins like grilled pork or tofu.
Where to try it: Streets of Ho Chi Minh City or Ba Xuyên in Brooklyn
Make it at home: Bánh Mì Recipe by Hungry Huy
- Arepas – Venezuela & Colombia
Arepas are cornmeal cakes that are grilled, baked, or fried and split open to be stuffed with meats, cheese, or beans. They’re crispy on the outside and soft inside, making them a comforting yet portable meal.
Where to try it: Street vendors in Bogotá or Caracas, or Arepa Lady in Queens
Buy ingredients with cashback: Use Fluz at Target to grab arepa flour (harina PAN)
- Jerk Chicken – Jamaica
This smoky, spicy grilled chicken is marinated in a paste of Scotch bonnet peppers, allspice, thyme, and other herbs, then cooked over pimento wood. Served with rice and peas, it’s an essential Jamaican experience.
Where to try it: Boston Bay, Jamaica or Miss Lily’s NYC
Cooking tip: Look for Walkerswood Jerk Marinade, available at Walmart or Amazon (earn cashback with Fluz)
- Takoyaki – Japan
These golden, round balls of dough are filled with diced octopus, scallions, pickled ginger, and tempura scraps, grilled in a special molded pan. They’re served with a drizzle of mayonnaise, takoyaki sauce, and bonito flakes.
Where to try it: Osaka street markets like Dotonbori
Learn more: Japan Guide – Takoyaki
- Churros con Chocolate – Spain
This classic Spanish treat features fried dough sticks dusted with sugar and served alongside thick hot chocolate for dipping. They’re a staple of morning and late-night eats alike.
Where to try it: Madrid’s Chocolatería San Ginés
Make it at home: Churros Recipe by Spanish Sabores
- Gimbap – South Korea
Gimbap looks similar to sushi but is uniquely Korean, with rice, pickled radish, vegetables, and proteins wrapped in seaweed. It’s commonly sold from street carts as a quick, portable meal.
Where to try it: Seoul’s Myeongdong Market or Dosirak NYC
Pantry tip: Use cashback on seaweed and sesame oil at Fluz-partner stores
- Pani Puri – India
Also called golgappa, these hollow, crispy shells are filled with spiced potatoes, chickpeas, tangy tamarind water, and chili. A burst of flavor in every bite, they’re eaten in quick succession while standing.
Where to try it: Mumbai’s Chowpatty Beach or Delhi’s street stalls
Food safety tip: When abroad, ensure the pani (spiced water) is made with purified water
- Pierogi – Poland
These stuffed dumplings are often filled with potatoes, cheese, or meat, then boiled or fried and topped with butter and onions. They’re a comfort food with deep roots in Eastern Europe.
Where to try it: Kraków’s street vendors or Veselka NYC
Freezer aisle hack: Look for frozen pierogi from brands like Mrs. T’s at Fluz-eligible stores
- Falafel – Middle East
Deep-fried balls of chickpeas and herbs, falafel are typically served in pita with tahini, pickled vegetables, and salad. You’ll find variations across Israel, Lebanon, Egypt, and beyond.
Where to try it: Tel Aviv or Beirut food stalls
Cook at home: Tori Avey’s Falafel Recipe
Bonus: Travel Smart, Eat Well
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When traveling, explore food markets early in the day to catch vendors at their freshest.
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If you love international ingredients, consider building a global pantry—here’s how.
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Stock up affordably at stores like Walmart, Sam’s Club, and Target—earn cashback by using Fluz when purchasing gift cards for groceries and travel.
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